Palawan is famous for its amazing beaches. This guide helps you find the perfect beach, whether you want to swim, take stunning photos, or both! We’ll look at some of Palawan’s best beaches and tell you what makes them special.
Best Palawan Beaches for Swimming
Palawan has tons of great swimming spots. The water is usually calm and clear, perfect for a relaxing dip. Let’s dive in!
Nacpan Beach, El Nido
Nacpan Beach is a long, sandy stretch located about an hour north of El Nido town. It’s known for its soft sand and shallow water, making it ideal for swimming, especially for families with kids. You can walk far out into the ocean, and the water is usually very calm. Just watch out for the waves on windy days! There are a few restaurants and bars along the beach, so you can grab a bite or a drink after your swim. The Department of Tourism highlights El Nido as a premier destination for its natural beauty.
Las Cabanas Beach, El Nido
Las Cabanas Beach, also known as Marimegmeg Beach, is another popular choice in El Nido. It’s easily accessible from El Nido town by tricycle or motorbike. While the waves can sometimes be a bit stronger here than at Nacpan, the water is still generally safe for swimming. The beach also offers stunning sunset views. You can even zip line from one end of the beach to another for an extra thrill!
Long Beach, San Vicente
Long Beach in San Vicente is exactly what it sounds like: a very, very long beach! It’s actually the longest beach in the Philippines, stretching for about 14 kilometers. Because it’s so long, you can always find a quiet spot to swim and relax. The water is generally shallow and calm, perfect for swimming and wading. While it’s not always crystal clear because of the sand, it’s a great option if you want a peaceful beach experience away from the crowds. San Vicente’s local government promotes sustainable tourism practices to preserve its natural beauty.
Secret Lagoon Beach, Miniloc Island
Okay, this one requires a bit more effort to reach since it’s on Miniloc Island, but it’s worth it! You’ll need to take an island hopping tour to get here. The Secret Lagoon is a small, enclosed body of water that’s connected to the sea by a small opening. The water is crystal clear and very calm, making it a fantastic spot for swimming and snorkeling. It’s like swimming in your own private pool!
Entalula Island Beach, El Nido
Entalula Island boasts incredibly clear, turquoise water that’s perfect for swimming. The sand is fine and white, and the scenery is just breathtaking. It can get a bit crowded during peak season because it’s a popular stop on island hopping tours, but it’s still worth a visit for the amazing swimming conditions.
Best Palawan Beaches for Instagram Photos
Palawan is a photographer’s paradise! These beaches offer stunning backdrops for your Instagram feed. Get your cameras ready!
El Nido Town Beach (for the boats!)
While not the best beach for swimming, El Nido Town Beach offers a unique photographic opportunity. The colorful boats docked along the shore make for a vibrant and interesting photo. Capture the bustling energy of the town with the towering limestone cliffs in the background. Visit during sunset for the best lighting.
Secret Beach, Matinloc Island
Secret Beach is another El Nido gem accessible only by swimming through a small opening in the rocks. The thrill of getting there is part of the experience! Once inside, you’ll find a secluded beach with stunning turquoise water and towering limestone cliffs. The dramatic landscape makes for incredibly Instagrammable photos. This beach is part of Tour C in El Nido island hopping.
Seven Commandos Beach, El Nido
Seven Commandos Beach is easily accessible and offers a classic Palawan beach scene. Palm trees line the shore, and the water is crystal clear. The beach is named after seven Japanese soldiers that were said to have lived on the islands after WWII. The legend adds a historical and unique touch to your photos. It’s a great spot for capturing that perfect “tropical paradise” shot.
Kayangan Lake, Coron
Okay, Kayangan Lake isn’t technically a beach, but it’s so stunning that it deserves a mention. This freshwater lake is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and boasts incredibly clear turquoise water. Climb to the top of the viewpoint for the iconic photo overlooking the lake. You’ll get a truly unforgettable shot! CNN Travel and other publications have consistently featured Kayangan Lake as a must-see destination in the Philippines.
Twin Lagoon, Coron
Like Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon is another Coron highlight that’s perfect for Instagram. This unique spot features two lagoons connected by a small opening. During low tide, you can swim through the opening to reach the other lagoon. The towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear water provide a dramatic and stunning backdrop for your photos.
Dimalanta Island, Port Barton
Dimalanta Island, near Port Barton, is a small island with pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s less crowded than some of the more popular spots, allowing you to create stunning photos without hordes of people in the background. The vibrant coral reefs surrounding the island also offer great snorkeling opportunities, adding another dimension to your Instagram content.
Beyond Swimming and Instagram: Other Great Palawan Beaches
Palawan has even more beautiful beaches to offer, each with its own unique charm.
Sabang Beach, Puerto Princesa
Sabang Beach is famous for being the jump-off point for exploring the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While the beach itself may not be the best for swimming, the opportunity to combine a beach visit with a tour of this incredible natural wonder makes it a worthwhile destination. You can also enjoy activities like ziplining and mangrove tours. The UNESCO website provides more details about the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.
Nagtabon Beach, Puerto Princesa
Nagtabon Beach, located north of Puerto Princesa, is a surfer’s paradise. The waves here are generally good for surfing, especially during the monsoon season. Even if you’re not a surfer, it’s a great place to watch the action and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. The beach is also long and sandy, perfect for taking a stroll.
Inaladelan Island (German Island), Port Barton
This small island near Port Barton is a true hidden gem. The sand is incredibly white and powdery, and the water is crystal clear. The island is also home to a variety of colorful fish and coral, making it a great spot for snorkeling. It’s a peaceful and secluded spot, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
Starfish Island, Honda Bay
Located in Honda Bay near Puerto Princesa, Starfish Island lives up to its name. The shallow waters around the island are teeming with starfish of all shapes and sizes. It’s a great place for families with kids, as they can safely wade in the shallow water and observe these fascinating creatures. Just remember not to touch or disturb the starfish!
Bulog Dos Island, Coron
Bulog Dos Island offers a stunning sandbar that connects it to another small islet. The sand is white and powdery, and the water is incredibly clear. It’s a favorite spot for photographers and those looking for a postcard-perfect Palawan beach experience.
Choosing the Right Beach for You
With so many amazing beaches to choose from, it can be tough to decide where to go. Think about what’s most important to you. Are you looking for the best swimming conditions? Do you want to take stunning photos for Instagram? Are you looking for a secluded and peaceful spot? Once you know what you’re looking for, you can narrow down your options and choose the perfect beach for your Palawan adventure. Take into account factors such as travel time from major towns, accessibility (some are only reachable by boat), and the availability of amenities like restaurants and accommodations.
Tips for Visiting Palawan Beaches
Protect the environment: Avoid using single-use plastics. Bring your own reusable water bottle and shopping bag. Don’t litter, and always dispose of your trash properly. Be mindful of the coral reefs and avoid touching or disturbing them.
Respect the local culture: Dress modestly when visiting local villages or religious sites. Ask permission before taking photos of people. Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
Be aware of the tides: Tides can vary greatly in Palawan, so it’s important to be aware of the tide schedule. Some beaches may be completely submerged at high tide.
Protect yourself from the sun: The sun in Palawan can be very strong, so it’s important to protect yourself from sunburn. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially when you’re spending time in the sun.
Be aware of jellyfish: Jellyfish are common in Palawan, especially during certain times of the year. Avoid swimming in areas where jellyfish are present.
Book accommodations and tours in advance: Palawan is a popular tourist destination, so it’s important to book your accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season.
FAQ Section
Q: What is the best time to visit Palawan?
A: The best time to visit Palawan is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. The weather is sunny and dry during this time, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the islands.
Q: How do I get to Palawan?
A: You can reach Palawan by flying into either Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) or El Nido Airport (ENI). Puerto Princesa is a major airport with flights from Manila and other major cities. El Nido Airport is smaller and has fewer flights, but it’s closer to the El Nido area.
Q: Do I need a visa to visit Palawan?
A: Most nationalities can enter the Philippines without a visa for a certain period of time. Check with your local embassy or consulate to see if you need a visa to visit Palawan. Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, and most European countries, can enter the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days.
Q: What are the best things to do in Palawan besides visiting beaches?
A: Besides visiting beaches, Palawan offers a variety of other activities, including exploring the Puerto Princesa Underground River, snorkeling and diving in Coron Bay, hiking to waterfalls, and visiting local villages.
Q: Is Palawan expensive?
A: Palawan can be as expensive or as affordable as you want it to be. There are accommodations and restaurants to suit all budgets. You can save money by eating at local eateries, traveling during the off-season, and booking accommodations in advance.
Q: Is it safe to travel to Palawan?
A: Palawan is generally a safe place to travel. However, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics, and be careful when walking alone at night.
References
Department of Tourism Philippines
UNESCO World Heritage Centre
CNN Travel
Ready to experience the magic of Palawan’s beaches? Start planning your adventure today! Book your flights, reserve your accommodations, and get ready to explore some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or the perfect Instagram shot, Palawan has something for everyone. Don’t just dream about it, do it! Your Palawan paradise awaits!
