Palawan is the largest island in the Palawan Province, in the western Philippines. The capital, Puerto Princesa, is known for the biodiverse Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, where boats run along an underground river through vast caves. Off the east coast, Honda Bay’s islands are dotted with resorts. Farther out in the Sulu Sea, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park has reefs teeming with marine life. ― Google
Max length: 425 km
Area: 12,189 km²
Capital and largest city: Puerto Princesa (pop. 307,079)
Coordinates: 9°30′N 118°30′E / 9.5°N 118.5°E
Highest elevation: 2,086 m (6844 ft)
Highest point: Mount Mantalingajan
Location: Southeast Asia
November to April:
This is the dry season, which offers the best weather for outdoor activities like island hopping, diving, and exploring the beaches. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect more crowds and higher rates, especially during holidays and festivals.
Best for: Beach lovers, adventure seekers, and nature enthusiasts.
May to October:
The rainy season, where there’s a higher chance of occasional showers and typhoons. While some areas may be less accessible, the off-peak season offers a quieter experience with lower accommodation prices.
Best for: Budget travelers, less crowded experience.
By Air:
You can fly into Puerto Princesa (the capital of Palawan), which has an international airport connected to Manila, Cebu, and other major cities in the Philippines.
Another option is to fly into El Nido or Coron, which also have smaller airports. There are direct flights from Manila to these areas, and from there, you can take boats to nearby islands.
By Sea:
Ferries are available from Manila and other neighboring islands, but this can be a longer and less convenient option compared to flying.
By Land and Boat:
After landing in Puerto Princesa, you can take a van or bus to popular destinations like El Nido, Port Barton, or Coron. You’ll also need to take boat rides for island hopping and exploring remote areas.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, this river flows through a limestone cave system, offering a unique underground boat ride through the forest. It’s a must-see natural wonder in Palawan.
Known for its limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear lagoons, El Nido is a haven for island-hopping enthusiasts. Popular islands include Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Simizu Island, and Secret Lagoon, each offering beautiful views and excellent opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
Famous for its stunning calderas, crystal-clear lakes, and incredible wreck diving spots. Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoons are among the top attractions here, while Coron Bay offers numerous shipwrecks from World War II, ideal for divers.
Located near Puerto Princesa, Honda Bay is a great destination for island hopping. You can visit Starfish Island, Luli Island, and Cowrie Island, where you can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on white sandy beaches.
For wildlife enthusiasts, Turtle Sanctuary in Honda Bay allows visitors to swim with and learn about the sea turtles that inhabit the waters around Palawan.
A quieter alternative to the more popular tourist spots, Port Barton offers stunning beaches, clear waters, and opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, and discovering secluded islands like German Island and White Beach.
Island Hopping:
Explore the crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches of islands like Shimizu Island, Cadlao Island, and Snake Island in El Nido. Take boat tours to enjoy the lagoons, caves, and vibrant marine life.
Diving and Snorkeling:
Palawan is a paradise for divers. You can explore shipwrecks, coral reefs, and diverse marine life in places like Coron and El Nido. Some famous dive spots include Barracuda Lake and Tubbataha Reefs (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).
Kayaking:
Paddle through the lagoons, caves, and the crystal-clear waters of El Nido, Coron, and Honda Bay. Kayaking is an ideal way to explore Palawan’s scenic beauty from a different perspective.
Trekking and Hiking:
Trek through Palawan's lush forests to discover waterfalls, caves, and remote villages. Popular hikes include Mt. Tapyas in Coron for panoramic views of the island and Mt. Calauit for wildlife spotting.
Cultural Experience:
Visit local villages and learn about the indigenous cultures of Palawan, such as the Batak and Tagbanua people. You can visit the Palawan Cultural Center in Puerto Princesa for insights into local customs.
Luxury:
Amanpulo (Pamalican Island): An exclusive, luxury resort offering private villas and beachfront access, perfect for those seeking a secluded, top-tier experience.
El Nido Resorts (Miniloc and Pangulasian Island): Upscale resorts offering private islands, stunning views, and exceptional service.
Mid-range:
The Lio Eco Resort (El Nido): A sustainable and luxurious resort offering eco-friendly accommodations and stunning views.
Coron Westown Resort (Coron): A mid-range option with great amenities and easy access to the islands.
Budget:
Spin Designer Hostel (Puerto Princesa): A stylish and affordable hostel with a modern design, great for backpackers and solo travelers.
Fortune Palawan (Puerto Princesa): A budget-friendly hotel with basic amenities and comfortable rooms.
Must-try dishes:
Tamilok: A local delicacy, this is woodworm (a type of mollusk) eaten raw or cooked with vinegar and spices.
Kasoy: A local dish made with cashews, which are abundant in Palawan.
Kinilaw: A Filipino-style ceviche made from raw fish marinated in vinegar, lime, and spices.
Coconut Crabs: Known locally as "taba-tabang", these crabs are a Palawan specialty.
Top Dining Spots:
Ka Inato (Puerto Princesa): A popular local restaurant that serves authentic Filipino dishes with a Palawan twist.
Lolo Nonoy’s (El Nido): A beachfront restaurant serving fresh seafood and traditional Filipino food.
La Trattoria (Coron): An Italian restaurant offering homemade pizzas and pasta dishes, with a lovely view of the bay.
Palawan's Indigenous Culture:
The island is home to several indigenous groups like the Tagbanua, Batak, and Palawan tribes, who live in harmony with nature. Visiting indigenous villages gives insight into the culture, practices, and beliefs of these communities.
Sustainability and Conservation:
Palawan is famous for its natural beauty, and the local government and various organizations are committed to preserving the environment. Sustainable tourism practices, eco-friendly accommodations, and community-based tourism are important here.
Festivals:
Pamaon Festival (Puerto Princesa): Celebrating the city’s founding with street dancing, parades, and cultural performances.
Tumarbong Festival (El Nido): A celebration of the town’s cultural heritage, showcasing traditional music, dances, and local crafts.
Flora and Fauna:
Palawan is home to an incredible diversity of flora and fauna, including rare species like the Palawan bearcat and the Philippine tarsier. It’s a haven for nature lovers and conservationists.