Palawan is the place to be if you’re dreaming of a vacation filled with stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unforgettable adventures. From island hopping to exploring underground rivers, Palawan has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!
Why Palawan? Let’s Talk About Paradise
Palawan isn’t just another pretty place; it’s consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Seriously! Its natural beauty is simply breathtaking. We are talking about towering limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and coral reefs teeming with life. Places like El Nido and Coron are picture-perfect, straight out of a postcard. What’s not to love? Palawan offers a mix of relaxation and adventure that’s hard to find anywhere else. According to Condé Nast Traveler, Palawan has been recognized many times, proving that it’s a must-visit destination.
Island Hopping Adventures
Island hopping is a MUST in Palawan. Imagine yourself sailing through turquoise waters, stopping at pristine beaches, and snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs. Places like El Nido and Coron offer incredible island-hopping tours that show you the best spots. You’ll see hidden lagoons, secret beaches, and amazing marine life. Pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, and get ready for an unforgettable day at sea!
El Nido: El Nido is famous for its stunning limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons. Hop on a boat and explore spots like the Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, and Shimizu Island. Each place offers something unique, from kayaking through narrow passages to swimming in crystal-clear waters.
Coron: Coron is a diver’s paradise, but it’s also great for island hopping. Visit Kayangan Lake, often called the cleanest lake in Asia, and Twin Lagoon, where you can swim through a small opening to reach another lagoon. Then there’s Barracuda Lake, known for its unique thermoclines. Don’t forget to check out the famous WWII shipwrecks!
The Underground River: A Natural Wonder
The Puerto Princesa Underground River is one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, and it’s definitely worth a visit. As you cruise along the river in a small boat, you’ll marvel at the incredible rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites. Keep an eye out for bats and other wildlife that call the cave home. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) carefully protects this natural treasure, ensuring it remains pristine for future generations.
The entire tour takes about half a day, including the boat ride to and from the entrance of the river. Make sure to book your tour in advance, as slots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Beaches, Beaches, Beaches!
Palawan is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot to relax or a lively beach with plenty of activities, you’ll find it here.
Nacpan Beach: This long stretch of golden sand is perfect for a leisurely stroll, sunbathing, or simply relaxing and watching the waves. It’s less crowded than some of the other beaches in El Nido, so you can really unwind. Several beach shacks offer food and drinks, so you can spend the whole day here.
Seven Commandos Beach: Just a short boat ride from El Nido town, Seven Commandos Beach is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and volleyball. The beach is named after seven Japanese soldiers who lived on the island after World War II.
Long Beach (San Vicente): If you’re looking for a really long beach (we mean REALLY long!), head to San Vicente. This beach is the longest in the Philippines, stretching for about 14 kilometers (or about 8.7 miles). You can walk for hours and barely see another person.
Diving and Snorkeling in Palawan
Palawan’s underwater world is just as stunning as its landscapes. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a newbie snorkeler, you’ll be amazed by the colorful coral reefs, diverse marine life, and even some cool shipwrecks.
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit for experienced divers. It’s one of the best dive sites in the world, with incredible biodiversity. Think sharks, manta rays, sea turtles, and vibrant coral reefs. Keep in mind that Tubbataha is only accessible by liveaboard boats during certain months of the year.
Coron Wrecks: As mentioned earlier, Coron is famous for its WWII shipwrecks. These wrecks are now home to a variety of marine life, making them fascinating dive sites. Some popular wrecks include the Irako Maru, Akitsushima, and Olympia Maru.
El Nido Dive Sites: El Nido also has several excellent dive and snorkel sites. Check out Helicopter Island, known for its unique shape, or Entalula Island, with its beautiful coral gardens.
Wildlife Encounters
Palawan isn’t just about beaches and water activities. It’s also a great place to see some amazing wildlife.
Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center: This center, also known as the Crocodile Farm, is a good place to learn about the conservation efforts in Palawan. You can see different species of crocodiles, as well as other animals like bears, birds, and snakes.
Calauit Safari Park: This unique park is home to a variety of African animals, like giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. The animals were brought to Palawan in the 1970s to save them from extinction.
Birdwatching: Palawan is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with hundreds of different species to spot. Head to places like Olangoan Falls or the St. Paul Mountain Range to see a variety of birds.
Delicious Palawan Food
No vacation is complete without trying the local food, and Palawan has plenty to offer. From fresh seafood to unique local dishes, your taste buds are in for a treat.
Fresh Seafood: Being an island, Palawan is famous for its fresh seafood. Grilled fish, prawns, crabs, and lobsters are all widely available. Head to local markets or beachfront restaurants to get the freshest catch of the day.
Tamilok: This is a unique Palawan delicacy that you might want to try (if you’re feeling adventurous!). Tamilok is a woodworm that lives in mangrove trees. It’s usually eaten raw with vinegar and spices.
Kinilaw: Similar to ceviche, kinilaw is a Filipino dish made with raw fish marinated in vinegar, onions, ginger, and chili peppers. It’s a refreshing and flavorful dish, perfect for a hot day.
Cashew Nuts: Palawan is known for its cashew nuts. You can find them roasted, salted, or used in various snacks and desserts. Make sure to buy some as souvenirs.
Getting Around Palawan
Getting around Palawan is relatively easy, but it depends on where you’re going. Here’s a quick guide:
Flights: The main airport in Palawan is Puerto Princesa International Airport. You can fly here from Manila, Cebu, and other major cities in the Philippines. There are also smaller airports in El Nido and Coron, but flights may be limited.
Buses and Vans: Buses and vans are a common way to travel between towns in Palawan. They’re relatively affordable, but they can be slow and crowded.
Tricycles: Tricycles are a popular mode of transportation within towns. They’re cheap and convenient for short distances.
Boats: If you’re island hopping or traveling between islands, you’ll need to take a boat. Boats range from small outrigger boats to larger ferries.
Where to Stay in Palawan
Palawan offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences.
Luxury Resorts: If you’re looking for a luxurious experience, check out resorts like El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island, Amanpulo, or Two Seasons Coron Bayside Hotel. These resorts offer stunning villas, private beaches, and top-notch amenities.
Mid-Range Hotels: There are plenty of mid-range hotels that offer good value for money. Places like Best Western Plus The Ivywall Hotel in Puerto Princesa, or Cadlao Resort & Restaurant in El Nido are excellent choices.
Budget-Friendly Hostels and Guesthouses: If you’re on a budget, you can find affordable hostels and guesthouses in most towns in Palawan. Look for places like Spin Designer Hostel in El Nido or Puerto Pension Inn in Puerto Princesa.
When to Visit Palawan
The best time to visit Palawan is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. During these months, the weather is sunny and dry, perfect 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. Be aware that peak season (December-January and Holy Week/Easter) can be very crowded and prices for accommodations and tours may be higher.
Tips for a Smooth Trip
Here are a few tips to help you have a smooth and enjoyable trip to Palawan:
Book in advance: Especially during peak season, it’s important to book your flights, accommodations, and tours in advance.
Bring cash: While some establishments accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to bring cash, especially when visiting smaller islands or towns.
Pack light: You’ll be doing a lot of island hopping, so pack light and bring only the essentials.
Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat: The sun can be strong in Palawan, so protect yourself from sunburn and insect bites.
Respect the environment: Palawan is a natural paradise, so do your part to protect it. Don’t litter, avoid using single-use plastics, and be mindful of the coral reefs when snorkeling or diving.
Learn some basic Tagalog phrases: While English is widely spoken in Palawan, learning a few basic Tagalog phrases will be appreciated by the locals. Magandang araw po (Good day) and Salamat po (Thank you) are good starting points.
FAQ: Your Palawan Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions about visiting Palawan:
Is Palawan safe for tourists?
Yes, Palawan is generally a safe place for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, and keep your valuables secure.
How much does it cost to visit Palawan?
The cost of visiting Palawan depends on your travel style and preferences. A budget traveler can expect to spend around $30-50 per day, while a mid-range traveler might spend $70-150 per day. Luxury travelers can easily spend $200 or more per day.
What should I pack for Palawan?
Here are some essential items to pack for Palawan: swimsuit, sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, sunglasses, light clothing, sandals or flip-flops, a waterproof bag or dry sack, and a reusable water bottle. If you plan on hiking, bring sturdy shoes.
Do I need a visa to visit the Philippines?
Many nationalities can enter the Philippines without a visa for a certain period of time. Check if you are eligible for visa-free entry with the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs website. If you need a visa, apply well in advance of your trip.
What’s the currency in the Philippines?
The currency in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Credit cards are accepted in many establishments, but it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller towns or islands. ATMs are available in major towns and cities.
Can I drink the tap water in Palawan?
It’s generally not recommended to drink tap water in Palawan. Stick to bottled water or filtered water. You can also bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at water stations.
What kind of electricity is used in the Philippines?
The electricity in the Philippines is 220V, 60Hz. The standard plug is a two-pronged flat pin plug (Type A). If your devices use a different plug, you’ll need to bring a travel adapter.
References
Condé Nast Traveler. Various Awards and Rankings.
Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Information on protected areas.
Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs. Visa Requirements for the Philippines.
Ready to Book Your Dream Vacation?
So, are you ready to experience the magic of Palawan? Picture yourself swimming in turquoise waters, exploring hidden lagoons, and relaxing on pristine beaches. What are you waiting for? Start planning your Palawan adventure today and create memories that will last a lifetime! Check out your favorite travel sites for the best deals on flights and accommodations. Don’t just dream it; live it! Palawan is calling.
