Palawan, Philippines is often called the “Last Frontier” for a good reason. It’s an archipelago of stunning islands, crystal-clear waters, and incredible biodiversity. From relaxing on pristine beaches to exploring hidden lagoons, Palawan offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
Why Choose Palawan?
Choosing where to spend your precious vacation time can be tricky, but Palawan makes it easy! Imagine waking up to the sound of gentle waves, surrounded by lush greenery, and knowing a day of adventure or relaxation awaits. Unlike some crowded tourist spots, Palawan maintains a sense of tranquility and natural beauty that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Palawan isn’t just one place; it’s a collection of islands, each offering a unique experience. Whether you’re an adventurous backpacker, a honeymooning couple, or a family looking for fun, there’s something for everyone here. The province boasts incredible diving and snorkeling opportunities, world-class beaches, and thrilling jungle treks. Plus, the friendly locals and delicious food add to the overall charm.
Getting to Palawan
Getting to Palawan is easier than you might think! Most international travelers will fly into Manila (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) or Cebu (Mactan-Cebu International Airport) and then take a domestic flight to one of Palawan’s airports. The main airport is in Puerto Princesa, the capital city. Alternatively, you can fly directly to El Nido Airport (ENI), but flights tend to be more expensive and less frequent. Coron also has its own airport, Francisco B. Reyes Airport (USU).
When booking your flights, it’s a good idea to compare prices from different airlines. Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia are popular choices for domestic flights. It’s also wise to book in advance, especially during peak season (generally November to May), to secure the best fares. Consider the length of your stay and which parts of Palawan you want to visit when deciding which airport to fly into. Keep in mind that traveling between destinations in Palawan can take time, so factor that into your itinerary.
Exploring Puerto Princesa
Puerto Princesa is more than just the arrival point; it’s a destination in itself! This bustling city offers a blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. One of the most famous attractions is the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a boat tour through the stunning underground river, marveling at the rock formations and diverse ecosystem.
Aside from the underground river, Puerto Princesa has plenty to offer. Visit Honda Bay and hop on an island-hopping tour to explore nearby islands like Starfish Island, Cowrie Island, and Luli Island. Each island boasts pristine beaches, clear waters, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. You can also visit the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm, where inmates live in a relatively open environment and engage in agricultural activities. It’s a unique and thought-provoking experience.
Don’t miss out on trying the local cuisine in Puerto Princesa! Kinabuch Grill & Bar is a popular spot for seafood and Filipino dishes. For a more local experience, head to a paluto restaurant where you can choose your fresh seafood and have it cooked to your liking. There are also many cafes and restaurants serving international cuisine, so you’ll definitely find something to satisfy your taste buds.
The Beauty of El Nido
El Nido is often described as the crown jewel of Palawan, and it’s easy to see why! This stunning town is known for its towering limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs. It’s a paradise for island-hopping, snorkeling, diving, and simply relaxing on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
Island Hopping Tours A, B, C and D are classic El Nido experiences. Tour A typically includes destinations like Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Payong-Payong Beach, and the Big Lagoon or Small Lagoon (depending on the tide). Tour B often visits Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, Entalula Beach, and Cudugnon Cave. Tour C is popular for snorkeling and diving, featuring Hidden Beach, Helicopter Island, Secret Beach, Matinloc Shrine and Star Beach. Tour D focuses on inland beaches and usually includes Nacpan Beach, Calitang Beach and the waterfalls. Remember to book your tours in advance, especially during peak season.
Beyond island hopping, El Nido offers plenty of other activities. Hike up to Taraw Cliff for panoramic views of Bacuit Bay. Go kayaking through the mangroves or rent a motorbike and explore the surrounding countryside. You can also visit Nacpan Beach, a long stretch of golden sand perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. El Nido is a place where you can easily spend days exploring and discovering new adventures.
Exploring Coron
Coron is another must-visit destination in Palawan, known for its stunning dive sites, picturesque landscapes, and rich history. It’s a paradise for scuba divers and snorkelers, with numerous WWII shipwrecks lying beneath the crystal-clear waters.
One of Coron’s most famous attractions is Kayangan Lake, often called the cleanest lake in the Philippines. Climb the steps to the viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views before taking a refreshing swim in the turquoise water. Another popular spot is Barracuda Lake, known for its thermoclines and unique underwater scenery. Siete Pecados Marine Park is a great place for snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life.
Aside from diving and snorkeling, Coron offers other activities. Hike up Mount Tapyas for stunning sunset views of the town and surrounding islands. Visit Maquinit Hot Spring for a relaxing soak after a day of exploring. You can also take a boat tour to nearby islands like Malcapuya Island, Banana Island, and Bulog Dos Island, each boasting pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Be sure to visit the Culion Museum and Archives, which tells the story of the former leper colony on Culion Island, a short boat ride from Coron. It provides an important glimpse into the region’s history.
Palawan’s Diverse Marine Life
Palawan is a haven for marine biodiversity, hosting a vast array of fish, coral, and other marine organisms. The waters surrounding Palawan are part of the Coral Triangle, considered the “Amazon of the Seas” due to its incredible biodiversity. This makes Palawan an ideal destination for scuba divers and snorkelers who want to experience the wonders of the underwater world.
Divers can explore numerous dive sites in Palawan, including WWII shipwrecks, vibrant coral reefs, and underwater caves. Some popular dive sites include the Japanese wrecks in Coron Bay, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site accessible only by liveaboard), and the many reefs surrounding El Nido and Puerto Princesa. Snorkelers can also enjoy the clear waters and abundant marine life in areas like Honda Bay, Siete Pecados Marine Park, and the lagoons of El Nido.
It’s important to practice responsible diving and snorkeling to protect Palawan’s marine environment. Avoid touching or disturbing coral, and don’t leave any trash behind. Choose dive operators and tour companies that are committed to sustainable tourism practices. By respecting the marine environment, we can help ensure that future generations can enjoy the beauty and biodiversity of Palawan’s underwater world. Divers should always be careful around the wreck, as they are fragile and can easily break.
Palawan’s Food Scene
Exploring Palawan’s food scene is an adventure in itself! The province offers a delicious mix of Filipino dishes, fresh seafood, and international cuisine. From humble street food stalls to upscale restaurants, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Seafood is a must-try in Palawan. Freshly caught fish, shrimp, crab, and lobster are abundant and cooked in various ways. Try grilled seafood with a side of rice and atchara (pickled papaya), or indulge in a creamy seafood stew called kinilaw (similar to ceviche). Local specialties include dishes made with tamilok (woodworms), which are considered a delicacy by some.
In Puerto Princesa, Kinabuch Grill & Bar is a popular spot for grilled seafood and Filipino dishes. Ka Lui Restaurant is known for its ambiance and fresh seafood dishes. In El Nido, Artcafe offers a mix of Filipino and international cuisine with stunning views of Bacuit Bay. Altrovè is a popular Italian restaurant. In Coron, Lolo Nonoy’s Food Station offers affordable and delicious Filipino dishes. Be sure to try the local fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and bananas, which are fresh and flavorful.
Things to Know Before You Go
Planning your trip to Palawan requires a bit of preparation. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Palawan is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to May. During this time, the weather is sunny and dry, making it ideal for island-hopping, diving, and other outdoor activities. The wet season, from June to October, can bring heavy rains and strong winds, which can disrupt travel plans.
Currency: The currency in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Credit cards are accepted in some establishments, but it’s always a good idea to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller towns and islands. ATMs are available in major towns like Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron, sometimes with transaction fee.
Language: The official languages of the Philippines are Filipino and English. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, so you shouldn’t have any trouble communicating.
Accommodation: Palawan offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. It’s a good idea to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season. Websites like Booking.com and Agoda offer a wide selection of hotels and resorts in Palawan. Airbnb is also a great option when traveling with large family, so you could rent vacation homes.
Transportation: Getting around Palawan can be an adventure in itself! Tricycles are a common mode of transportation in towns like Puerto Princesa and El Nido. Jeepneys, converted military vehicles, are used for longer distances. Boats are essential for island-hopping tours. You can also rent motorbikes to explore the countryside at your own pace. Just remember to wear a helmet and drive safely.
Responsible Travel in Palawan
As a tourist, it’s important to practice responsible travel to protect Palawan’s natural environment and support local communities. Here are a few tips:
Reduce your plastic waste: Bring your own reusable water bottle, shopping bag, and toiletries. Avoid single-use plastics whenever possible.
Support local businesses: Eat at local restaurants, buy souvenirs from local artisans, and choose tour companies that employ local guides. This helps boost the local economy and provides opportunities for residents.
Respect the environment: Avoid touching or disturbing coral, and don’t leave any trash behind. Choose tour companies that are committed to sustainable tourism practices. When buying souvenirs, avoid products made from endangered species.
Conserve water and energy: Be mindful of your water and energy consumption. Turn off lights and air conditioning when you leave your hotel room. Take shorter showers and reuse towels whenever possible.
By practicing responsible travel, you can help ensure that Palawan remains a beautiful and sustainable destination for future generations.
FAQ Section
What is the best time to visit Palawan?
The best time to visit Palawan is during the dry season, from November to May. The weather is generally sunny and dry, perfect for outdoor activities.
How do I get to El Nido from Puerto Princesa?
You can get to El Nido from Puerto Princesa by bus, van, or airplane. The bus and van take around 5-6 hours, while a direct flight to El Nido Airport (ENI) is much faster (about 1 hour) but typically more expensive.
Are there ATMs in El Nido and Coron?
Yes, there are ATMs in El Nido and Coron, but they can sometimes run out of cash, especially during peak season. It’s always a good idea to bring enough cash with you.
Is it safe to drink tap water in Palawan?
No, it’s not recommended to drink tap water in Palawan. Stick to bottled water or purified water.
What should I pack for my trip to Palawan?
Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes. A waterproof bag is also useful for island hopping.
Do I need a visa to visit the Philippines?
Many nationalities can enter the Philippines without a visa for a certain period of time (usually 30 days). Check the visa requirements for your country before you travel. You can visit the Department of Foreign Affairs website for more information.
How much does it cost to travel to Palawan?
This depends on your travel style and preferences. Budget travelers can expect to spend around $30-50 per day, while mid-range travelers might spend $70-150 per day. Luxury travelers can easily spend $200 or more per day. Consider the costs of transportation, meals, accommodations, and activities when budgeting for your trip.
References
Department of Foreign Affairs, Philippines.
UNESCO World Heritage Centre.
Philippine Department of Tourism.
Local Government of Palawan.
The Coral Triangle Initiative.
Philippine Airlines.
Cebu Pacific.
AirAsia.
Lonely Planet – Palawan.
Note: All sources are available online and were used to gather general information for this article.
Ready to Explore Palawan?
Palawan is more than just a destination; it’s an experience. It’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left, reminding you of the beauty and wonder of the natural world. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your dream vacation to Palawan today! Book your flights, choose your accommodation, and get ready to explore the Last Frontier. An unforgettable adventure awaits you!
