Top Places to Visit in Palawan, Philippines

Palawan, an island province in the Philippines, is consistently recognized as one of the world's most beautiful islands, boasting pristine beaches, towering limestone karsts, and vibrant marine life. This guide will take you through the must - visit spots, offering a glimpse into its natural wonders and unique adventures. Prepare to be enchanted by the unparalleled charm of this tropical paradise, perfect for those seeking both relaxation and thrilling exploration.

El Nido, located in the northern part of Palawan, is famous for its stunning limestone karst landscapes, crystal - clear waters, and secluded lagoons. It's a prime destination for island hopping, where you can discover hidden beaches and snorkel in vibrant coral gardens. Boat tours (A, B, C, D) are the best way to explore the archipelago, with Tour A and C being the most popular for first - timers. To make the most of your visit, consider booking your island - hopping tour in advance, especially during peak season, and aim for an early start to beat the crowds.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of Nature, the Puerto Princesa Underground River is a spectacular natural phenomenon. Visitors take a paddle boat through a magnificent cave system, marveling at unique rock formations, diverse wildlife, and an awe - inspiring subterranean landscape. It's crucial to book your tour and permit well in advance, as access is regulated to protect this fragile ecosystem. The journey typically takes about 45 minutes inside the cave.

Coron, often visited in conjunction with El Nido, offers a distinct set of attractions, primarily known for its Japanese WWII shipwrecks, perfect for diving and snorkeling. Beyond wrecks, its lakes and lagoons, like Kayangan Lake and Barracuda Lake, are exceptionally clear and provide unique swimming experiences. To fully appreciate the underwater historical sites, consider getting certified for diving or joining a guided snorkeling tour. The dry season, from November to May, offers the best visibility for diving.

Often hailed as the cleanest lake in the Philippines, Kayangan Lake on Coron Island is a breathtaking freshwater oasis nestled among towering limestone cliffs. Its mesmerizing turquoise waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, offering stunning underwater rock formations. A short, uphill trek with around 300 steps is required to reach the lake, but the panoramic views from the viewpoint along the way are absolutely worth the effort. Don't forget your camera for truly iconic shots of this natural gem.

Barracuda Lake, also known as Luluyuán Lake, is a unique dive and snorkel site on Coron Island, famous for its thermocline layers where water temperature dramatically changes. This creates a surreal experience as you swim through varying temperatures, encountering curious barracudas and other marine life. It's an excellent spot for advanced divers looking for something different, but even snorkelers can appreciate the distinct temperature shifts near the surface. Remember to bring water shoes for the rocky path leading to the lake.

Seven Commandos Beach is a picturesque white sand beach, often part of El Nido's Tour A, renowned for its soft sand, swaying palm trees, and clear waters. It's an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying refreshing drinks from the small beachside shacks. The beach is perfect for relaxing after a morning of exploring lagoons and caves. Try to visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday crowds and harsh sun.

The Big Lagoon in El Nido is an iconic destination, offering stunning emerald waters encircled by dramatic limestone cliffs. Visitors typically kayak through a narrow entrance to explore the serene inner lagoon, a truly magical experience. This spot is a highlight of El Nido's Tour A, and it's highly recommended to rent a kayak before entering the lagoon to fully explore its beauty. Be aware that during high tide, kayaks might be mandatory, and a small fee usually applies for entry.

Also part of El Nido's Tour D, the Small Lagoon is another magnificent natural wonder accessible by swimming or kayaking through a small hole in the limestone cliffs. Inside, you'll discover a peaceful, shallow lagoon surrounded by lush vegetation and towering karsts. It's a tranquil spot for swimming and exploring hidden crevices. Life vests are usually provided and encouraged for safety, especially if you plan to swim through the narrow opening.

Nacpan Beach, located north of El Nido town, is a stunning four - kilometer stretch of golden sand, offering a more laid - back atmosphere compared to the bustling island - hopping spots. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the beautiful sunset. The beach is accessible by tricycle or scooter, and renting one for the day offers flexibility to explore at your own pace. Consider spending a full afternoon here to truly unwind and witness its famous twin beach view.

Sugar Beach in Port Barton is a pristine, tranquil haven known for its fine white sand and calm, clear waters, offering a peaceful escape from the more tourist - heavy areas. It's an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling just offshore, and simply unwinding in a hammock. The absence of large resorts contributes to its serene charm, making it perfect for budget travelers seeking rustic beauty. To reach it, you'll likely need to hire a boat from Port Barton town, making it a delightful day trip.

Honda Bay, near Puerto Princesa, is a popular destination for island hopping, featuring several islands with distinct characteristics. You can visit Starfish Island for its abundance of starfish, Luli Island (which disappears at high tide), and Cowrie Island for swimming and dining. It's a great option for families and those looking for accessible snorkeling and beach relaxation. Many tours depart daily from Puerto Princesa, and booking one is the easiest way to experience the bay.

Snake Island, or Vigan Island, is a unique El Nido attraction known for its S - shaped sandbar that emerges during low tide, connecting the island to the mainland. Walking along this natural bridge, surrounded by crystal - clear waters, is a memorable experience. It's often included in El Nido's Tour B and offers fantastic photo opportunities and excellent snorkeling nearby. Check the tide schedule to ensure you visit when the sandbar is fully visible.

For adventurous travelers, Taraw Cliff offers one of the most rewarding panoramic views of El Nido town and its stunning Bacuit Bay. There are two main trails: the challenging 'Canopy Walk' with safety harnesses or the more strenuous 'Extreme Trek'. Both provide incredible vistas. Ensure you go with an experienced local guide, as the climb can be steep and slippery, and wear appropriate footwear for safety.

Beyond its serene beaches, the area around Port Barton offers refreshing inland adventures, including several beautiful waterfalls like Pamuayan Falls. These cascades provide a cool respite from the tropical heat, surrounded by lush jungle. You can reach them via a pleasant trek through local villages and rice paddies, often accompanied by a local guide. Combining a waterfall visit with an island - hopping tour makes for a diverse day of exploration.

The Twin Lagoons of Coron are a geological marvel, separated by a towering limestone wall. One lagoon is accessible by boat, while the other is reached by swimming through a small opening or climbing over a ladder during low tide. The striking contrast of hot and cold freshwater layers provides a unique swimming experience. This site is a highlight of Coron island - hopping tours, and wearing aqua shoes is recommended for navigating the rocky entrance.