Welcome to Palawan: A region boasting picture-perfect beaches, pristine coral reefs, and luscious jungles. Palawan hosts many iconic landmarks. From the crystal clear lagoons found in Coron to the secluded beaches of Balabac, there is a plethora to explore.
Palawan is a province located in the western part of the Philippines. It is located between the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea. It is the largest province in the country in terms of total area, comprising of approximately 1,780 islands.
Palawan Map
How to get around Palawan
Palawan is easy to navigate due to its tourism roots. With an international airport in Puerto Princessa, you can fly directly into the region. Airports in Busuanga (Coron) and El Nido, make travelling domestically from other parts of the Philippines convenient and fast!
Regular ferry services operate between major ports such as Puerto Princesa, Coron, and El Nido. It is comfortable to travel around Palawan using busses, vans and tricycles (for shorter distances)! These can all be easily booked using 12go.
Popular Destinations in Palawan
Top Attractions in Palawan
Puerto Princessa
Puerto Princessa, the capital city of Palawan, is a captivating destination known for its natural beauty and wildlife.
The most famous attraction here is the Underground River. Enjoy an awe-filled boat ride that begins amidst the emerald waters of the river and gradually transitions into the eerie darkness of the cave system. While you glide through the cave, learn about the cave’s formation, its unique rock formations as well as its discovery. Sit back and absorb the beauty of this natural wonder while listening to the echoing of bats that break the cave’s silence.
El Nido
Nestled on the pristine shores of Palawan, lies the tranquil beachfront town of El Nido. Home to picturesque beaches, world-class island hopping and a cosy town atmosphere, El Nido is a haven for backpackers.
Where to stay in El Nido:
Vellago Resort  ($$$) – The Funny Lion ($$) – Frendz Hostel ($)
El Nido is located close to many incredible activities, beaches and reefs. One of the most famous landmarks here is the Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon – A striking landscape of crystal clear water surrounded by towering walls and lush foliage. Kayaking here offers a tranquil experience and is a must-do activity in Palawan!
The town is blessed with many stunning beaches nearby. Head to Nacpan Beach to walk amongst powdery white sands, picnic or perhaps sunbathe! For the more adventurous traveller, head to Secret Beach to find a secluded paradise with clear oceans and unspoiled sands!
Heading to Coron and El Nido?
Book the incredible tour from El Nido To Coron (4 days of camping, island hopping and secluded adventures. Check out the adventure here.Â
Coron
A haven for ocean enthusiasts, Coron offers a diverse range of experiences amidst stunning natural beauty. Coron is idyllic for island hopping!
Where to stay in Coron:
Corto Del Mar Hotel ($$$) – The Ridge Coron ($$) – Outpost Hostel ($)
The most famous attraction is Kayangan Lake; A crystal clear azure lake with incredible visibility and enchanting surroundings. For freedivers, this lake is a paradise waiting to be explored. Enjoy the peaceful setting as you swim and take in the serene atmosphere.
Similar to Kayangan Lake, lies Barracuda Lake. Despite its similar characteristics, one key difference makes this lake a stand-out experience. There is a singular barracuda who roams the lake, a bucket list creature for many ocean fanatics!
Located around Coron’s shoreline, lies several WW2 Japanese shipwrecks. Scuba diving in Coron is an unforgettable experience, that allows you to actively dive inside these giant wrecks, exploring through tiny gaps and discovering the marine life that now call this wreckage their home.
Coron and Busuanga also offer exciting opportunities to kayak in crystal clear water, stroll on secluded sand beaches and hike to impressive viewpoints.
For more things to do in Coron, check out: The Ultimate Coron Travel Guide.
Balabac
Balabac is the definition of an off-the-beaten-path destination! Located in the far southern tip of Palawan, lies a group of pristine islands with turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and diverse marine life. Balabac is paradise on earth!
Balabac is not for everyone. You can expect rustic accommodation and a long travel time. But for those daring to accommodate this, a world of gorgeous scenery awaits! Explore the breathtaking scenery via an island hopping expedition. Wander the secluded beaches, indulge in the local cuisine or perhaps unwind and enjoy the sunset. An unspoiled paradise awaits!
Looking for a private tour of Balabac? Check out The Wander Walkers.
Tubataha
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Sulu Sea. Its exceptional biodiversity and pristine coral reefs, make it one of the most important marine ecosystems in the world.
The reef boasts astonishing soft and hard corals, drawing in a diverse array of exciting marine life. It is an essential refuge for hundreds of species of fish, sharks and turtles!
The only way to access the reef is by booking a liveaboard. Here, you will dive three times a day, fully immersing yourself in the wonders of Tubbataha.
Port Barton
Port Barton is a tranquil coastal town boasting a gorgeous, quiet beach and exciting island hopping. The seclusion, combined with the growing tourism development here, makes Port Barton a more authentic experience in Palawan.
The most popular activity here is island hopping. Take a boat trip to the famed Starfish Island, where you will be surrounded by starfish on a gorgeous powdery sandbar.
The island hopping opportunities here also have fantastic snorkeling! Delve into unspoiled reefs and find yourself surrounded by reef fish. Keep an eye out for turtles too!
Things To Know
- Cash is king in Palawan - There are ATMs in the main towns
- If you can book a private island hopping tour, do! The boats often get crowded on the shared tours.
- It is best to visit Palawan in the Dry Season
Looking to do more adventure activites in the Philippines? Check out The Ultimate Adventure Bucketlist In The Philippines
Thank you for reading our blog!
We are Em & Yul – An English & Filipino Travel Couple. Now based in Cebu, we frequently explore the best destinations, hidden gems and cultural attractions across the Philippines.Â
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