Planning Palawan: Islands, Bases, Transfers
Palawan is often called the Philippines’ last frontier — a province of emerald lagoons, limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and untouched islands. Stretching more than 400 kilometers, this archipelago is home to world-famous destinations like El Nido and Coron, as well as UNESCO-listed wonders such as the Puerto Princesa Underground River. Palawan is not just a place to see — it’s a place to feel: the rush of paddling through limestone canyons, the calm of snorkeling above coral gardens, and the warmth of fishing villages where time moves slowly. This Palawan travel guide pulls together the best attractions, itineraries, and insider details to help you unlock one of Asia’s most breathtaking tropical escapes.
Where to Go in Palawan
Busuanga | Coron | El Nido | Linapacan | Narra | Port Barton | Puerto Princesa | Roxas | San Vicente | Taytay
Exploring Palawan by Area
Puerto Princesa
The provincial capital is the main gateway and home to the Underground River. It offers city comforts, restaurants, and a strong ecotourism scene.
El Nido
Famous for dramatic limestone cliffs and island-hopping tours, El Nido is the most iconic part of Palawan. Its Bacuit Archipelago is a maze of lagoons, secret beaches, and turquoise waters.
Coron
Known for shipwreck diving and clear lakes, Coron draws both divers and adventure-seekers. Kayangan Lake, often dubbed the cleanest lake in Asia, is a highlight.
Port Barton
A laid-back beach town between Puerto Princesa and El Nido, Port Barton is for those who prefer fewer crowds and a slower pace.
San Vicente
Home to Long Beach, the Philippines’ longest white-sand stretch at 14 kilometers, San Vicente is emerging as an eco-destination.
Balabac
At the southern end of Palawan, Balabac boasts remote islands with powdery sandbars and pristine reefs, ideal for explorers.
Can’t-Miss Sights in Palawan
Natural Icons
- Puerto Princesa Underground River: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and New 7 Wonders of Nature, featuring a navigable subterranean river system.
- El Nido’s Big Lagoon & Small Lagoon: Signature stops with towering cliffs and glassy blue water.
- Kayangan Lake: Coron’s most photographed spot, with crystal-clear water framed by karst cliffs.
Cultural Landmarks
- Plaza Cuartel in Puerto Princesa: A historic site tied to WWII.
- Cuyonon Heritage Village: Showcasing traditional Palawan architecture and culture.
Family-Friendly Spots
- Honda Bay: A cluster of islets near Puerto Princesa, ideal for island-hopping with calm waters.
- Coron Hot Springs: Maquinit Hot Spring offers family-friendly relaxation after a day of adventure.
Natural Escapes in and Around Palawan
Twin Lagoon (Coron)
Accessible only by boat, these lagoons are separated by towering cliffs. Swimming through a crack in the rock feels like entering another world.
Snake Island (El Nido)
A curving sandbar where you can walk surrounded by shallow seas — one of Palawan’s most scenic stops.
Long Beach (San Vicente)
A vast stretch of sand with little development, offering tranquility and sunset views.
Onok Island (Balabac)
Considered one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines, with surreal turquoise waters and untouched coral.
Must-See Experiences in Palawan
- El Nido Island-Hopping: Tours A, B, C, and D cover lagoons, caves, and beaches. Tour A is most popular for lagoons, while Tour C features hidden beaches.
- Coron Wreck Diving: Dive into WWII Japanese shipwrecks, now thriving reefs.
- Underground River Tour: A boat ride into caverns filled with stalactites and bats.
- Firefly Watching: River tours at night light up with thousands of fireflies.
- Mangrove Paddling: Eco-tours reveal mangrove forests critical to Palawan’s ecosystem.
Uncover more with curated Palawan tours, then dive deeper into local culture, landmarks, and natural wonders — the essential things to do in Palawan. We may earn a commission if you book through our links — at no extra cost to you.
- Linapacan Islands: Between El Nido and Coron, these remote islands have some of the clearest waters on earth.
- Culion Island: Once a leper colony, now a town with fascinating history and serene beaches.
- Tabon Caves: Archeological site with evidence of early Filipino civilization.
- Nacpan Beach: A 4-kilometer golden beach near El Nido, less crowded than town beaches.
Cultural & Historic Highlights of Palawan
- Palawan Heritage Center: In Puerto Princesa, this museum highlights Palawan’s diverse indigenous groups.
- Batak and Tagbanua Tribes: Indigenous communities with strong ties to forests and sea, some offering cultural exchanges for visitors.
- Spanish-era Forts: Remnants of colonial defense structures dot the islands.
- Religious Festivals: From Baragatan Festival in Puerto Princesa to town fiestas, Palawan celebrates with parades and local food.
Eating Your Way Through Palawan
- Tamilok: Woodworm mollusks, a local delicacy often served kinilaw-style (ceviche).
- Fresh Seafood: Grilled fish, lobster, and crabs served beachside.
- Lato (Sea Grapes): A seaweed salad with a salty, popping texture.
- Cashew Nuts: A local specialty from southern Palawan.
- Street Barbecue: Skewered pork and chicken found in markets across the province.
Nightlife and Events in Palawan
- El Nido Beach Bars: Sunset happy hours with live music and cocktails.
- Coron Rooftop Cafés: Relaxed nightlife with sea views.
- Puerto Princesa’s Baywalk: Evening food stalls and casual bars for families and friends.
- Baragatan Festival: Celebrated every June in Puerto Princesa, showcasing Palawan’s cultural heritage.
Suggested Palawan Travel Itinerary Ideas
3 Days in Palawan
- Day 1: Explore Puerto Princesa, with an Underground River tour and evening at Baywalk.
- Day 2: Island-hop Honda Bay, stopping at Luli, Cowrie, and Starfish Islands.
- Day 3: Visit Baker’s Hill and the Palawan Wildlife Rescue Center before departure.
5 Days in Palawan
- Day 1–2: Follow the Puerto Princesa highlights above.
- Day 3: Travel to El Nido and enjoy sunset at Nacpan Beach.
- Day 4: Take El Nido’s Tour A, featuring lagoons and Secret Beach.
- Day 5: Relax in El Nido town, shop for crafts, and join a firefly river tour.
7 Days in Palawan
- Day 1–5: Follow the 5-day plan.
- Day 6: Travel to Coron and relax at Maquinit Hot Spring.
- Day 7: Explore Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, and snorkel at Siete Pecados.
10 Days in Palawan
- Day 1–7: Follow the 7-day itinerary.
- Day 8: Go wreck diving in Coron or island-hop Malcapuya and Banana Island.
- Day 9: Take a day trip to Culion or Linapacan Islands for history and remote beaches.
- Day 10: End your journey in San Vicente with a walk along Long Beach before flying out.
Where to Base Yourself in Palawan
- Puerto Princesa: Best for first-timers and Underground River access.
- El Nido: Perfect for island-hopping and nightlife.
- Coron: A must for divers and lake explorers.
- Port Barton: Great for those wanting quiet charm and a backpacker vibe.
- San Vicente & Balabac: Ideal for remote, pristine beach lovers.
Insider Tips for Experiencing Palawan Like a Local
- Book El Nido tours a day in advance, but expect some flexibility with weather.
- Avoid single-use plastics; Palawan is strict on eco-rules.
- Try van transfers early morning to avoid bumpy nighttime rides.
- Support local craftspeople by buying woven baskets and shells.
- Respect indigenous community guidelines if visiting tribal areas.
- Jeepneys & Vans: Connect towns like Puerto Princesa to El Nido or San Vicente.
- Ferries: Link Coron, El Nido, and Manila.
- Tricycles: The go-to for short distances in towns.
- Flights: Small airports in Puerto Princesa, El Nido, Coron, and San Vicente make traveling faster.
- Motorbike Rentals: Ideal for exploring beaches and countryside roads.
Best Time to Visit Palawan
- November–May: Dry season, with sunny skies and calm seas.
- June–October: Rainy season, with fewer tourists and lush scenery but risk of storms.
- December–February: Peak season with ideal weather — book well ahead.
- June: Baragatan Festival adds cultural vibrancy to your trip.
Planning Your Stay in Palawan – Practical Tips
- Booking: Secure accommodations months in advance for El Nido and Coron in peak season.
- Duration: At least 7 days recommended to see highlights; 10+ days for full exploration.
- Budgeting: Tours are standardized, but meals range from cheap street eats to fine dining.
- Connectivity: Patchy Wi-Fi outside cities; mobile data more reliable.
- Safety: Strong eco-regulations mean tours are generally safe and well-managed.
Plan Smarter, Travel Better
Palawan is where you can paddle into caves, dive onto shipwrecks, and walk barefoot on untouched sandbars all in one trip. This Palawan travel guide gives you the roadmap to balance adventure and relaxation in the Philippines’ most idyllic island province.
Continuing Your Journey Beyond Palawan
- Cebu: Dive with sardines in Moalboal or chase waterfalls.
- Bohol: See the Chocolate Hills and tarsiers.
- Boracay: A quick flight away, with nightlife and powder-white beaches.
- Coron: Northern Palawan’s gem, with shipwreck diving and pristine lakes.
- El Nido: Limestone cliffs and lagoons, Palawan’s most iconic destination.
Final Tips for a Smart Palawan Adventure
- Pack waterproof bags — island-hopping means getting wet.
- Wear reef shoes for rocky shores and caves.
- Always carry cash; ATMs are limited outside main towns.
- Avoid overloading itineraries — distances are long, travel takes time.
- Stay hydrated; tropical heat can be intense.
- Bring eco-friendly insect repellent, especially in mangrove areas.
- Book flights to/from Coron and El Nido early — seats are limited.
- Respect marine life: don’t step on corals or chase turtles.
It’s Time to Experience Palawan
Palawan is not just another island — it’s a journey into the Philippines’ wild heart, where lagoons sparkle, reefs teem with life, and culture thrives quietly in villages and festivals. This Palawan travel guide equips you with everything needed to craft your dream itinerary, whether it’s diving shipwrecks, gliding through underground rivers, or simply basking on a secluded beach.
Start planning today, and let Palawan’s beauty redefine your idea of paradise.
