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Palawan’s Most Beautiful Beaches

Discovering the most beautiful beaches in palawan.

Palawan has emerged as a top destination for beach lovers in the Philippines, with a wealth of stunning beaches that make it hard to choose just one favorite. From the crystal-clear waters of Nacpan Beach to the peaceful shores of Sabang Beach, Palawan boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. In this guide, we've curated the top 10 most breathtaking beaches in Palawan to help you plan your perfect island getaway. So come and explore the paradise that is Palawan, and immerse yourself in the beauty of these world-class beaches.

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Nacpan Beach

Nacpan Beach is widely considered as the most beautiful beach in El Nido, captivating the hearts of visitors with its serene and tropical paradise-like setting. If you're looking to escape from the crowds and soak in some sun, this is the perfect destination. Located approximately 45 minutes away from El Nido town, Nacpan Beach is easily accessible via private tricycle or van. For those seeking accommodations in the area, ANGKLA Beach Club & Boutique Resort comes highly recommended.

Sabang Beach

Nestled along the rugged, untouched coastline of Palawan's eastern shore, Sabang Beach is renowned as one of the island's most popular destinations, serving as the gateway to the famous Underground River. Despite its popularity, Sabang Beach remains a tranquil and serene place to unwind and recharge. For those planning to visit Sabang Beach, Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort comes highly recommended for an unforgettable stay. Getting to Sabang Beach is relatively easy, with a 2 hour drive from Puerto Princesa airport. Private vans are also available for transportation from El Nido.

Seven Commandos Beach

Seven Commandos Beach is a true paradise on earth, boasting sparkling white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a stunning backdrop of swaying coconut trees. Widely considered one of the best beaches in El Nido, this idyllic spot is accessible only by boat and is typically the final stop on island-hopping tours. For those looking to make the most of their visit to Seven Commandos Beach, we highly recommend a stay at Vellago Resort. Getting to Seven Commandos Beach is easy with private boat transfers available from El Nido town. Additionally, Seven Commandos Beach is featured in El Nido Tour A, making it a must-visit destination for any trip to El Nido.

San Vicente's Long Beach

San Vicente may not be as well-known as El Nido, but that's precisely what makes it a hidden gem. Here, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Log Beach, a stunning 9-mile stretch of golden sand that is the longest of its kind in the Philippines. With fewer visitors than its more famous counterpart, San Vicente offers the chance to enjoy this beautiful beach in relative solitude. To make the most of your visit to San Vicente, we highly recommend a stay at Club Agutaya Resort. Getting to San Vicente is easy, with the nearest airport located in the area. Additionally, private vans are available from both El Nido and Puerto Princesa, making it accessible from both major destinations

Las Cabanas

La Cabanas Beach, located just 15 minutes from El Nido town, has quickly become a favorite destination among travelers. With its beautiful white sand and stunning sunsets, it's the perfect place to unwind and relax. For the best experience, stay at the Maremegmeg Beach Club. To reach La Cabanas Beach, simply take a 15-minute tricycle ride from El Nido town

Nagtabon Beach

Escape to paradise at Nagtabon Beach, a hidden gem easily accessible from Puerto Princesa city. This tropical oasis features 5 miles of pristine coastline, offering a serene atmosphere where you can relax and listen to the waves gently crashing on the shores. With fewer crowds, you can enjoy the stunning beauty of Nagtabon Beach all to yourself. For the ultimate getaway, stay at the luxurious Villa Nagtabon, nestled in the heart of this serene paradise. Getting there is easy with a 45-minute drive from Puerto Princesa city center. Opt for a private van or private tricycle for a hassle-free journey to this tropical paradise.

Pamuayan Beach

Located in the charming village of Port Barton, Pamuayan Beach is a hidden gem that offers a slice of paradise to those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its fine sands stretching nearly a mile, crystal clear waters, and lush greenery, it's no surprise that Pamuayan Beach is considered one of the best beaches in Palawan. Unwind on the serene beach with nothing but nature in sight. Recommended for your stay is the Mermaid Paradises JR Resort, which offers comfortable and eco-friendly accommodations. Getting there is easy with a private boat ride from Port Barton's main beach. You can also include a visit to Pamuayan Beach in your Port Barton Island Hopping Tour itinerary for an unforgettable experience.

Talaudyong Beach

Looking for a secluded beach away from the tourist crowds? Talaudyong Beach, located close to Nagtabon Beach, is a hidden gem that's perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Unlike other popular beaches in Palawan, Talaudyong is rarely frequented by tourists or locals, making it an ideal spot to relax and unwind in peace. Keep in mind that there is no public transportation available, so you'll need to rent a motorbike to reach the beach. For those looking to extend their stay, the nearby Talaudyong Beach Private Beach House is a great option for a peaceful retreat. To get there, you can take a 45-minute drive from Puerto Princesa city center via private van or tricycle.

Banol Beach

Banol Beach is a hidden gem that boasts crystal-clear waters and stunning rock formations, making it the perfect spot for a scenic picnic lunch during your Coron tour. Don't forget to capture the picturesque landscape for your Instagram feed! While there are no accommodations on Banol Beach, you can easily reach this beautiful destination by boat from Coron Town proper.

THE 10 BEST Palawan Island Beaches

Beaches in palawan island.

• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Nacpan Beach

2. Las Cabanas Beach

3. Hidden Beach

4. Secret Lagoon Beach

5. Seven Commando Beach

6. Nagtabon Beach

7. Duli Beach

8. Marimegmeg Beach

9. Sabang Beach

10. Onok Island

11. Corong Corong Beach

12. Long Beach

13. Star Beach

14. El Nido Airport

15. White Beach

16. Payong-Payong Beach

17. Ipil Beach

18. Napsan Beach

19. Talaudyong Beach

20. Tapiutan Beach

21. Talisay beach

22. Peña Plata Port Barton

23. Punta Sebaring

24. Tagkawayan Beach

25. Calampuan Island

26. Binangculan Bay

27. Candaraman Island

28. Monkey Beach

29. Pristine Beach

30. Maraneg Beach

What travelers are saying.

• Nacpan Beach
• Las Cabanas Beach
• Punta Sebaring
• Hidden Beach
• Seven Commando Beach
• Sabang Beach
• Marimegmeg Beach
• Nagtabon Beach

• COLLABORATIONS

• PHILIPPINES
• NETHERLANDS
• UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
• SAUDI ARABIA
• TRAVEL TIPS
• INSPIRATION

16 Best Beaches in Palawan Philippines

Making a top of the best beaches in Palawan is a challenging task, and this is why. The Philippines has over 7,000 islands; over 1,700 are part of the Palawan archipelago, and each has at least one beach.

Palawan, along with Boracay, Cebu, and Bohol, is among the most sought-after by tourists for the beauty of the beaches and the sea color.

Dotted with limestone rock formations, tall palm trees, white sand, favorable temperatures, hidden lagoons, turquoise water, and smiling locals, Palawan has often been named the most beautiful island in the world. And I can’t contradict that, especially after my three weeks in Palawan .

Palawan has an area of approximately 17,000 square kilometers, and the capital is Puerto Princesa. One of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World is near this locality: the Underground River.

But this article is dedicated to the most beautiful beaches in Palawan Philippines, although it is challenging to make a top when you have countless options of paradisiacal beaches.

Contrary to expectations, if you don’t consider the cost of plane tickets, Palawan is an affordable destination. Here you can find accommodation at reasonable prices, food, and activities that won’t damage your budget. So, these are the 16 best beaches in Palawan:

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16 Best Beaches in Palawan

16. luli island beach.

You can visit Luli Island as part of the Honda Bay tour. The island is famous for its sand bar and the very shallow water around it. Sometimes, it even gets lost under the waves, so it’s not mentioned on the map of the islands of Palawan.

Also, on Luli Island, you can find a mangrove forest and many starfish that come close to the shore. The beach is beautiful, but don’t expect the finest sand and the most crystalline water. There are some more beautiful beaches in Puerto Princesa.

→ Book the tour that takes you to Luli Island

15. El Nido Bay beach

El Nido Bay beach is near the city and where most tours depart from El Nido to the surrounding smaller islands. It’s also the place where you will find most restaurants and accommodations. So, El Nido Bay Beach is one of the best beaches in El Nido if you’re not looking for privacy.

If you want to enjoy this beach without too many people around (or not with very many), avoid the times when they leave and return from tours, i.e., in the morning and around 4-5 after dinner.

Where to stay in El Nido:

• budget: Zhaya’s Beach & Cottages – on the beach, breakfast included
• mid-range: Hidden of Cailan Inn – beautiful view, the beach nearby, spacious rooms
• luxury: The Funny Lion – El Nido – luxurious rooms, swimming pool, restaurant, room service, private beach

14. Banana Island – Coron | Best beaches in Palawan

Also known as Dicalabuan Island, Banana Island bears this nickname due to the island’s shape, which seems to resemble the much-loved fruit. In general, you get here on an island tour, along with Bulog Dog and Malcapuya Islands, both included in this top.

I like that it has a beautiful beach, meadows with grass and palm trees, and swings and hammocks to relax on while admiring the scenery.

→ Book here the tour that takes you to Banana Island

Where to stay in Coron:

• budget: Divine Castle Travelers Inn – good location, free parking
• mid-range: Coron Hilltop View Resort – swimming pool, bar, spacious rooms
• luxury: The Funny Lion – swimming pool, free parking, spa, delicious breakfast included

READ ALSO: 10 Coron tourist spots – best things to do in Coron Palawan

13. Sabang Beach in Puerto Princesa

It’s the first beach I came into contact with when I visited Palawan and fell in love. It’s a long and wide beach where both tourists and locals walk.

The landscape is wild, and palm trees and hills surround the beach. Tours to the Subterranean River from Puerto Princesa also depart from here.

→ Book the Puerto Princesa Underground River tour here

Where to stay in Puerto Princesa:

• budget: Julieta’s Pension House – breakfast included, free Wifi
• mid-range: Summer Days – good location, close to the beach, delicious breakfast, free Wifi, parking included
• luxury: Balai Princesa – spa, breakfast, Wifi, and parking included, rooms with a unique design

12. Beach on the Bulog Dos Island – Coron

It’s a small island near Coron, but with a significant impact. The water is clear and turquoise, and the island also has some trees with red flowers that contrast beautifully with the color of the water.

The island’s main attraction is the sand bar, where you can walk and see starfish most of the time and many species of fish and corals. In the immediate vicinity is one of the most luxurious resorts in Coron: Two Seasons Coron Island Resort .

→ Book here the tour that takes you to Bulog Dos Island

11. Merimegmeg Beach | Beaches in Palawan Philippines

Merimegmeg Beach is located very close to Corong Corong but also Las Cabanas. I could say that it’s about halfway between them, and all three are some of the best beaches in El Nido .

You have to get here near the sunset because it’s a perfect place to admire it and because after dark, the nightlife on Merimegmeg beach is very active, with bars, music and lots of fun.

10. Corong Corong – El Nido

I knew it well when I lived on Corong Corong beach for a few days. Our room was only 10 meters from the water, and the mornings involved walks on the sand washed by the waves.

There are many places to stay here, but also restaurants with a terrace on the beach. It’s the perfect place to stay in Palawan, especially if you are looking for fun and proximity to the beach.

The water is not the most beautiful that you can find in the Philippines. However, it still manages to get a place at the top of the best Palawan beaches because there is no poor quality ocean water in the Philippines, only crystalline and very crystalline.

This beach is also famous among the locals, especially since some of them live in the area, and you will have the opportunity to interact if you are open to getting to know other cultures.

9. Nacpan Beach | Best beaches in El Nido

Nacpan Beach is said to be the best beach in El Nido Palawan, at least on the mainland side of the archipelago. I don’t necessarily agree with this ranking, but I give it credit for everything it offers and a well-deserved place in my top of the most beautiful beaches in Palawan.

It is located approximately 45 minutes from El Nido, and you can get here by scooter or tuk-tuk. I recommend the first option, the one with the scooter, because, on the way to Nacpan, you will travel a fascinating route with open villages, rice plantations, and even some gorgeous waterfalls.

Right next to Nacpan Beach is its twin sister, Calitang Beach. Overall, the scenery is worth the effort and the distance traveled, so don’t miss it when you get to Palawan. Since it is still far from El Nido, some tourists stay on Nacpan Beach for a few nights. A splendid resort where you can stay here is Nacpan Beach Glamping .

→ Book the transfer to Nacpan Beach

8. Shimizu Island El Nido | Best beaches in Palawan Philippines

Looking at this picture, you can understand why visiting this beach on Shimizu Island is worth it. The relief is incredible, with those dramatic limestone cliffs and the crystal-clear, splendid turquoise water.

You don’t need scuba diving equipment; you can see the fish without any problem, and the water is about that clear. But to get here, you must purchase a tour, one of the four available for El Nido. It’s worth all the money, considering you’ll spend a whole day exploring fairytale landscapes and having lunch with many exotic fruits and fish.

→ Book the tour to Shimizu Island here

7. Secret Lagoon beach

To get here, you have to buy tour A from El Nido . You should know that there are four tours in total, rated from A to D. Tour A is the best-rated among them, but they are all definitely worth it because the prices are very affordable for everything these tours offer you.

The boat will leave you quite far from the shore, and the bottom of the water has some stones that can hurt and scratch you. So, before coming here, make sure you are wearing appropriate footwear.

The beach is surrounded by spectacular rocks that define the relief of Palawan, but it also has a few scattered palm trees and lush vegetation.

→ Book tour A that takes you to Secret Lagoon here

6. Las Cabanas in El Nido | Best beaches in Palawan

We arrived at the most famous beach in El Nido and one of the most crowded. Several bars and hammocks here capture any traveler and make him want to stay on Las Cabanas beach for longer.

It is located approximately 15 minutes from the city, but this distance is shorter if you choose accommodation nearby. Near Las Cabanas beach, there is also the famous zipline in El Nido, which you must try. Pure adrenaline and unforgettable memories are guaranteed.

The name Las Cabanas comes from a resort located here.

5. Atwayan Beach – Coron

A splendid beach that, surprisingly, I don’t see mentioned too often in the top of the best beaches in Palawan. The name comes from the tuay shells found everywhere on this beach.

Atwayan Beach is included in the tours in Coron, and you usually have lunch here because it has some perfect cabins for that.

If you have the opportunity, rent a private boat and spend a whole day here, although it is not the best option if you want a beach just for yourself.

→ Book here the tour that takes you to Atwayan beach

4. The beach on the Cowrie Island

Its strange name comes from a marine mollusk. Although it’s a small island, there is a restaurant, umbrellas, sunbeds, toilets, and some of the most beautiful palm trees I have seen. Of course, with an incredible beach.

It is my favorite island among those I visited in Honda Bay, near Puerto Princesa. It’s one of the most developed uninhabited islands in Palawan, and this is because the area and size allow this.

Besides sitting on the beach, you can do a lot of activities on Cowrie Island, from banana rides or jet skis to massages or volleyball games.

→ Book here the tour that includes the visit to Cowrie Island

READ ALSO: Coron Island, Philippines – Ultimate Tour

3. Long Beach San Vicente

Not many people arrive in San Vicente when they visit Palawan, but I fell in love with the town, this accommodation, and especially the beach.

It’s officially the longest beach in the Philippines, with a length of over 10 km, approximately 15, and looks sensational. The beach is so big that it stretches along four villages: San Isidro, New Agutaya, Alimanguan, and Poblacion.

Its length guarantees you all the privacy in the world and wild landscapes, being almost entirely unaltered by man’s hand.

Where to in San Vicente:

• budget:  Palayan Paradise Huts   – bungalow-type houses in nature, a beautiful view
• mid-range: Ausan Beach Front Cottages – accommodation on the beach, bar
• luxury: Foxy’s Beach Resort – private beach, breakfast included, swimming pool

2. 7 Commandos Beach – El Nido | Best Palawan beaches

It’s not for nothing that I put this beach in the 2nd place on the list of the most beautiful beaches in Palawan. It is lovely, with many palm trees, white sand, cottages, intense turquoise water, and dramatic rocks that you can admire out to sea directly from the beach.

It’s a beach accessible only by boat, and you generally get here especially on a tour of the islands, although you can also come on your own if you rent a boat. The strange name of this beach came from an incident from the Second World War when seven soldiers were stranded on this island.

The beach is 320 meters long and is also famous for its calm water most of the time, with pretty small waves. It’s also an excellent area for scuba diving, like most places in Palawan.

→ Book here the tour that includes the visit to 7 Commandos Beach

1. Malcapuya beach Coron

It’s in first place in my list of the most beautiful beaches in Palawan, and this is because here I saw the most beautiful color of the water, but also excellent sand.

The marine life around Malcapuya Island is abundant, which means it’s the ideal place for scuba diving.

Indeed, the only disadvantage is that it’s a little more challenging to reach Malcapuya, located approximately 1 km from the island of Coron.

→ Book here the tour that takes you to the most beautiful beach in Palawan, Malcapuya

Things to know before visiting Palawan

How much time do you need to visit palawan.

The archipelago is vast and has a lot of beautiful places and top beaches.

You need at least two weeks in Palawan to enjoy everything it offers. Still, I recommend a 3-week itinerary in Palawan if you want to discover it in its entirety and if you want to reach the most beautiful beaches in Palawan.

What is the best time to visit Palawan?

Palawan’s climate is divided into dry and wet seasons. The dry season is from November to May, and the warmest months are March and April. The first is recommended for a vacation in Palawan because you will have several sunny days.

Avoid the June-September period if you don’t want to experience daily rain. But this season also has a good side: it’s less crowded, and prices can be lower by up to 50%.

It also depends on your area because the weather can differ significantly. In the hottest period of the year, temperatures do not exceed 35 degrees Celsius; in the coldest, they do not drop below 20.

What are the best areas to stay in Palawan?

Deciding which is the best area to stay in Palawan is tough. Anyway, the archipelago is so extensive and the distances so long that I recommend having accommodation in different areas.

For example, from El Nido to Coron, you will have to take a ferry for about 4 hours, and from Puerto Princesa to El Nido, you have to travel a distance of 260 km.

Therefore, I recommend taking at least three accommodations to cover all the beaches presented in the article: Puerto Princesa, Coron, and El Nido.

What is the proper budget for Palawan?

Apart from the cost of plane tickets, which can differ significantly depending on where you fly from and the time of year, the budget for a couple visiting Palawan for three weeks should be around $3000 – $4000.

This includes the price of accommodation, island tours, and all meals. You can undoubtedly visit Palawan with a lower budget and a much higher one. Still, the displayed amount represents the visit in the best possible conditions and with included activities.

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10 Amazing Things to Do in Palawan, the Philippines

Palawan is a long island located just off the western flank of the Philippines and a paradise from end to end. Best known for its bright blue waters that contrast against the karst stone cliffs of the island, this is one of the most popular resort destinations in the Philippines and is only an 80-minute flight from the capital of Manila. With plenty to explore from the gorgeous beaches , caves, jungles, and the occasional settlement offering rustic Filipino food , almost bottomless beer , and good company, Palawan offers adventures in the water, on land, and at the dinner table.

Swim in Kayangan Lake

The water in Kayangan Lake is believed to be some of the cleanest and clearest in the whole country, which says a lot given how famously clear the hundreds of lakes and lagoons the Philippines is home to. Located on Coron Island, off the northern end of Palawan, you can visit the lake on a group tour or book a private guide. After a steep climb up a wooden staircase through the jungle, you'll find the clear waters of the lake and also one of the most famous viewpoints in Palawan, which looks out on the bay between Coron and Busuanga Island.

Catch the Sunset on Nacpan Beach

TripSavvy / Paula Galindo Valle

There are a lot of beautiful places to watch the sunset in Palawan, but Nacpan Beach is believed by many to be one of the best. Not far from the main town in El Nido, the nearly 2-mile stretch of the palm-lined beach stands out for the curved strip of land that stretches out into the water and peaks into two picturesque hills. While many people decide to make a day trip, it's also possible to spend the night at the glamping resort right on the beach, which offers luxury in the form of air-conditioned tents.

Sail to El Nido's Secret Beaches

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

Across the sea from El Nido , on the northern end of the island, Bacuit Bay's limestone islands loom on the horizon, just waiting to be discovered. This part of Palawan is made for island-hoppers , and there are many tour guides with boats-for-hire who will be more than happy to show you the ins and outs of the bay's lagoons and beaches. Motorized outrigger boats may quickly be hired from multiple providers around town. Just check with your El Nido hostel, hotel, or resort ; many resorts and pension houses have their own craft for hire or will recommend a trusted outside provider. You can go kayaking in the Big and Small Lagoons on Miniloc Island or swim under the limestone opening to Matinloc's Secret Beach.

Explore the World's Longest Navigable Underground River

The Cabayugan River flows down from the Saint Paul mountain range within the 22,000-hectare Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park before descending into a cave, the title attraction. From Puerto Princesa, you'll need to take a bus and boat to get to the park, and because limited slots are available for tour groups, it's best to book your tour with a local travel agency.

The underground section of the Cabayugan River is 5 miles long, but only about half of this is navigable by boat. You can ride a paddle-powered outrigger boat from the cave's mouth and sail about a mile into the grotto, and marvel at the exquisitely-shaped limestone formations and the bats and birds that call the inner chambers home.

Spot the Philippines' Rarest Birds

Palawan is an essential stop for birds flying this hemisphere's migratory routes. The East-Asian Australasian Flyway (EAAF) runs between the northern Arctic Circle and New Zealand, with Palawan in the middle offering a rest stop to over 170 species of migratory birds escaping the cold weather from either pole. Palawan is also home to 15 endemic bird species found nowhere else, like the Palawan hornbill (Anthracoceros marchei), the Palawan scops-owl (Otus fuliginosus), and the cave-dwelling Palawan swiftlet (Aerodramus palawanensis). Wherever you end up along Palawan's length, you'll only be a few minutes drive away from some of the best birding sites in the Philippines.

Go Wreck-Diving in Coron Bay

Six shipwrecks that date back to 1944 and World War II tempt divers of all experience levels. Beginners can glide past the ships' exteriors, admiring the coral-encrusted cranes, portholes, and armaments. At the same time, expert wreck divers can enter the vessel and discover a dark, lost world of abandoned engine rooms, scattered personal effects, and bomb holes opening to the deep.

Coron's wrecks range in depth from 10 feet to 140 feet deep, with an average depth of 60 to 80 feet. Motorized outrigger boats called banca take divers from Busuanga Island to the wrecks, which are clustered surprisingly close together: you can spend several days just picking your way through the shipwrecks and dodging the considerable marine life in the area, including yellowfin tuna, groupers, scorpionfish, and sea turtles.  

Eat, Drink &; Be Merry in Puerto Princesa

Travelers tend to treat the capital Puerto Princesa as a short stopover if they don't go immediately from the airport to El Nido or Port Barton. However, these travelers miss out on a vibrant city with many wonderful things to eat and drink.

The two top restaurants both serve Filipino food but with very different vibes. Kinabuch   is like an open-air dive bar with plenty of fried Filipino favorites served with the best local beer. Kalui is more artistic with natural finishes and Filipino art aplenty. You can then top off your night with the spectacular selection of craft beers available at Palaweño Brewery . The barkeep will happily serve you a flight of their current beers on tap!

Guard Against Invaders at Taytay Fort

Mike Aquino

Called Fuerza de Santa Isabel by its Spanish builders and Taytay Fort by present-day locals, this coral and limestone fort was built in the early 1700s to defend Taytay against pirates and slave raiders.

The roughly square-shaped fort occupies an outcropping over Taytay Bay; from this vantage point, defenders could rake the bay with cannon-fire, sinking any foolhardy pirate ships within range. Climb up the stairs into the fort’s upper levels, and you arrive at what looks like a small park, with benches overlooking Taytay Bay and presently dormant cannons still looking out to the sea, as if still on guard against pirates.

Go on an African Safari at Calauit Island

The former dictator Ferdinand Marcos had some crazy ideas, but few were as wild as the African Safari in the north of Palawan. In 1976, Marcos talked the Kenyan government into donating African mega-fauna to the Philippines and stocking Calauit Island with giraffes, zebra, and antelope.

You can ride or walk around several established trails and feeding stations to see the few dozen giraffes and zebra descended from the original arrivals. The African imports mix easily with large local animals like the Calamian deer and wild boar. A safari to Calauit can be easily arranged from the town of Coron. Any hotel or resort around Busuanga Bay will be glad to direct you to their partner tour agencies.

Explore a Prison Without Walls at Iwahig

ClaudineVM/Getty Images

Established during American rule in 1902, Iwahig was first conceived as an overflow facility for prisoners from Bilibid Prison in Manila. Later, administrators took advantage of the terrain to convert Iwahig's purpose from punishment to rehabilitation. It's located about 12 miles west of Puerto Princesa, and tours and visits can be easily arranged. The tourist experience includes a dance routine performed by select inmates and a visit to a graceful old building—formerly a recreational center for prisoners—that now showcases the prisoners' handiwork for sale.

Iwahig is an active prison spread across over 20,000 acres with 4,000 prisoners on site. Here, prisoners can choose to farm on their own plots of land or create products that they can then sell to the tourist trade. Family members are even allowed to come live with them. A merit system allows prisoners to earn points and profits towards their release, including fisheries, carpentry, and farming.

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Not Another Backpacker

Palawan Travel Guide: Places to Visit + Insider Tips

Palawan in the Philippines is a true tropical paradise. The approximately 260-mile-long island is blessed with lush rainforest, impressive limestone formations, and countless beaches. It’s even been awarded “the most beautiful island in the world” several times.

I lived on Palawan for nearly two years during which time I thoroughly explored the island. To help you plan your trip, I put together this detailed Palawan travel guide.

Keep reading to find out about the best places to visit, tips on what to consider when planning your trip, and recommendations on where to stay!

Note: Your trust is important to me. Therefore, I’d like to point out that this article contains referral links (also known as affiliate links). This means I get a small commission if you buy a product after clicking on one of the corresponding links, which are marked with a *. There are no extra costs for you, but it helps me keep this blog ad-free. Thank you!

The 8 Best Places to Visit in Palawan

Palawan is the fifth largest island in the Philippines and quite a bit larger than most people imagine. The island’s unique elongated shape allows for a straightforward route, making it easy to plan your itinerary and visit multiple destinations. These are the best places in Palawan:

1. El Nido – Beaches, Islands & Stunning Lagoons

With stunning beaches and turquoise-blue lagoons, El Nido is definitely one of the best places to visit on Palawan!

While the town center itself is not that pretty, the surrounding nature is what makes this place special. Along the coast, you’ll find some of the best beaches on Palawan , and the islands with towering limestone cliffs in El Nido’s bay are nothing short of spectacular.

Unfortunately, this also means that the town can get quite crowded, but don’t let that discourage you from visiting: The beaches and islands around El Nido really are something else and when planning a trip to Palawan, you should make sure to put this gem on your itinerary!

The Best Things to Do in El Nido on Palawan:

• Go island hopping in El Nido and visit beautiful islands, lagoons, and sandbanks in Bacuit Bay.
• Enjoy the crystal-clear water at Nacpan Beach and Duli Beach.
• Rent a kayak and paddle to Cadlao Island (the largest island in Bacuit Bay).

Where to stay in El Nido ?

• Frendz Hostel* : Backpackers who like to party will love Frendz Hostel! The highlight is the incredible rooftop bar with a pool and an amazing view of Cadlao Island.
• Outpost Beach Hostel* : If you’re looking for a social atmosphere and you want to stay right on the beach, Outpost Beach Hostel is one of the best places to stay. It’s located a short ride outside of El Nido downtown and offers one of the best sunset views you can imagine.
• El Nido Viewdeck Cottages* : For those who want to splurge a little bit more, I recommend the El Nido Viewdeck Cottages which feature huts with private pools and an amazing view of the limestone cliffs in town!

For more accommodation tips check out my detailed article on where to stay in El Nido !

How many days do you need in El Nido?

I recommend staying in El Nido for at least three days. This will give you enough time to participate in one island hopping tour, visit Nacpan and Duli Beach, and go kayaking or visit a waterfall. If you want to do more than one island hopping tour and explore the region thoroughly, I recommend spending 5 – 7 days in El Nido.

2. Coron and Linapacan – Gorgeous Islands North of Palawan

The island group of Coron is situated north of the mainland of Palawan and, much like El Nido, is renowned for its small tropical islands and beautiful lagoons.

You can also book a three-day island hopping tour that starts in El Nido and ends in Coron (or the other way around). This will allow you to not only explore the islands around El Nido and Coron but also to enjoy the remote and less visited islands of Linapacan along the way.

I haven’t had a chance to visit Linapacan or Coron yet, but if you consider booking a tour, I heard very good things about the tour operators Tao and Big Dream Man Boattour . The latter also offers an amazing three-day tour around Coron. You can find more information in this Big Dream Man Boattour Review .

The Best Things to Do in Coron and Linapacan:

• Go island hopping around Coron to visit beautiful lagoons, caves, and jaw-dropping beaches.
• Join a 3-day island hopping tour from Coron to El Nido (or the other way around) to explore the island chain of Linapacan along the way.
• Explore the island of Coron and climb up Mt Tapayas for amazing views or relax in the Maquinit Hot Springs.

Where to Stay in Coron?

Unfortunately, I haven’t been to Coron myself yet, so I can’t give you accommodation tips from my personal experience. After doing research, I found several places with very good reviews though:

• Outpost Hostel* : Just like in El Nido, the Outpost Hostel seems to be one of the best places to stay in Coron. Backpackers will love the social atmosphere at the bar and if you still need more convincing, just look at that amazing infinity pool! The hostel features dorms and private rooms.
• The Ridge Coron* : Located on the outskirts of Coron Town, The Ridge Hotel offers guests comfortable rooms with mountain and ocean views. The hotel also provides a free shuttle into town.
• Kalis Viewpoint Lodge Coron* : If you’re looking for a budget room in the center of town, Kalis Viewpoint Lodge may be just what you’re looking for. It’s close to restaurants and bars and from the rooftop, you’ll have a beautiful ocean view.

How many days for Coron and Linapacan?

To explore the main island of Coron and head out to the surrounding islands by boat once or twice, you should plan to spend at least 3 full days on Coron. However, if you have more time to spare, you can easily stay a couple of days longer. To see the islands of Linapacan, you should plan for an extra 3 days for the island tour from Coron to El Nido.

3. Port Barton – A Laid-back Fishing Village with “Hippie” Vibes

For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of El Nido and Coron, Port Barton in Palawan is the place to be! There may not be as many things to do, yet it’s the perfect place to kick back and unwind.

You’ll find lovely beaches, decent snorkeling spots, and a handful of quaint beach bars where you can sip cocktails while watching the colorful sunsets on the horizon. So, sit back and relax!

The Best Things to Do in Port Barton on Palawan:

• Book a tour or rent a kayak to explore the islands and snorkeling spots in Port Barton’s Bay.
• Visit the surrounding beaches (White Beach, Coconut Beach, and Pamuyan Beach).
• Hike to Pamuyan Waterfall and cool off in the refreshing water.

Where to stay in Port Barton ?

• Coco Rico* : Backpackers who love to party should check out Coco Rico’s Hostel in town which offers cheap dorm beds and a social vibe. Plus, on Friday and Saturday, you can enjoy live music and free shots for half an hour at the hostel bar (there are free shots for everyone – even if you don’t stay here).
• My Green Hostel* : For backpackers looking for a social vibe without the craziness Coco Rico has to offer, My Green Hostel is a good fit. There is a bar on site but overall the vibe is a little more laid-back. Also, My Green Hostel provides Starlink internet connection which is perfect for digital nomads!
• Besaga Beachfront B&B* : Those who want to stay right on the beach and are willing to pay a little bit more will enjoy the beach huts from the Besaga Bed & Breakfast on the northern side of the beach. There’s also a restaurant on site that offers delicious meals for a fair price.

Pro-Tip: If you want to book accommodation spontaneously, you can also find some accommodations on Rizal Street (parallel to the beach) that are not available to book online. I stayed at Itaytay Inn – a budget guest house that is run by an amazing Filipino family and features a spacious balcony with a jungle view.

How many days do you need in Port Barton?

If you’re pressed for time, two full days in Port Barton are probably enough. This will give you enough time to go island hopping or kayaking and visit one or two surrounding beaches. However, Port Barton is a place to relax and if you want to keep it chill, you could easily spend 3 – 5 days here.

4. Balabac Islands – A Secluded Oasis in the Sulu Sea

The Balabac Islands are one of the least visited places in Palawan and are calling out for an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Due to its location in the infamous Sulu Sea south of Palawan’s mainland, there are some security concerns related to piracy and kidnappings that you should be aware of (more information here ), and some governments have issued travel warnings for this region.

Still, it is possible to travel to this region and you can hire a local guide to take you around the islands. You’ll be rewarded with beautiful white-sand beaches and the clearest water you can imagine.

Unfortunately, I haven’t had the chance to visit this island group myself yet, so I can’t speak from personal experience. BUT: I have talked to several people who have visited this incredible place and they’ve only had the best things to say.

Where to Stay in Balabac?

If you book a tour to the Balabac Islands, accommodation will be taken care of, so you don’t have to book a hotel.

How many days do you need for Balabac?

Most people who visit Balabac go on a three-day tour, but it’s possible to stay longer as well. If you plan a trip to this island group, keep in mind that it takes about one travel day to get there from Puerto Princesa. Many tour operators offer transport from and to the capital.

5. Sabang – The Home of the Underground River

Did you know that Palawan is home to one of the New 7 World Wonders of Nature? Yes, you’ve heard right: The Puerto Princesa Underground River was voted to be one of the most impressive natural formations on the planet!

As the name suggests, the approximately eight-kilometer-long river is located inside a cave. To visit this place, you can book a boat tour which takes you through the cave for about 45 minutes. The price for this tour is comparably high (for the same price you can book a full-day island-hopping tour in El Nido), but it’s definitely interesting to see this unique sight. There is something mystical about floating down a river in complete darkness with only a flashlight lighting the way.

Note: To avoid confusion, it’s essential to mention that the Underground River is not in Puerto Princesa (despite the name) but near a small beach town called Sabang. It is possible to visit the Underground River on a day trip from Palawan’s capital, but I would recommend staying at least one or two nights in Sabang to explore the region thoroughly.

The Best Things to Do in Sabang:

• Explore the stunning caves of Sabang like the Underground River and the 100 Caves.
• Visit the Pyamaluguan Waterfall and enjoy the refreshing water.
• Watch monkeys on the Monkey Trail.

Where to stay in Sabang ?

• Cafe Sabang* : As the only hostel in town, Cafe Sabang provides private rooms and dorm rooms for a budget-friendly price. The amenities are more basic with outdoor bathrooms and showers, but I enjoyed the social atmosphere and getting to know other travelers while staying here.
• Casa Leonara* : This budget guest house offers an excellent location right on the beach in the center of Sabang Town. The rooms are small but affordable and the beachside restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Bambua Nature Cottages* : Situated about 1 kilometer from Sabang Beach, the Bambua Nature Cottages offer affordable rooms and bungalows in a jungle atmosphere. I stayed here on my first trip to Sabang and enjoyed the solitude the place has to offer.

How many days do you need in Sabang?

I recommend staying one or two nights in Sabang. This is enough time to visit the Underground River and the 100 Caves outside of town, walk down the Monkey Trail, relax on the beach, and swim in the Pyamuluguan Waterfall. If you’re still hungry for more, you can also go ziplining across rice fields in Sabang’s Adventure Park.

6. Puerto Princesa – The Capital of Palawan

Honestly, Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan, is not overly exciting and if I was pressed for time, I would personally just skip the city. There are some good restaurants and a few beautiful beaches in the vicinity, but it’s nothing compared to what you’ll see in El Nido or Coron.

Nonetheless, Puerto Princesa is typically the cheapest place to fly into Palawan and it’s also a convenient place to start or end your trip on the island.

The Best Things to Do in Puerto Princesa:

• Rent a scooter and head to the local hangout spot Nagtabon Beach.
• Watch the sunset at the Baywalk Promenade.
• Visit the city’s Old Market where fresh produce, seafood, and all sorts of knickknacks are being sold.

Where to Stay in Puerto Princesa?

• Guni Guni Hostel* : If you’re looking for an affordable hostel in Puerto Princesa, Guni Guni is one of the best places to stay in. It’s located downtown and offers air-conditioned dorms with a speedy Starlink internet connection. Also, the hostel is connected to Guni Guni restaurant – one of my favorite places to eat in the city!
• Filigans Hotel* : During my time in Palawan, I usually stayed in Filigans when visiting Puerto Princesa. The hotel in the heart of the city center is pretty basic but if you’re traveling on a budget as a couple, you can find decent rooms for low prices.
• Sunlight Guest Hotel* : A little more expensive compared to the other options on this list, the Sunlight Guest Hotel in the center of Puerto Princesa offers spacious rooms and comfortable beds – some rooms come with an ocean view.

How many days do you need in Puerto Princesa ?

If you’re backpacking Palawan and you’re on a longer trip, you can spend one or two nights in Puerto Princesa to walk around town, check out the Old Market, and visit Nagtabon Beach. Those who have more time to spare can also visit the Crocodile Farm (a sanctuary that rescues crocodiles from South Palawan) or go island-hopping in Honda Bay.

On the contrary, if you’re on a short vacation in Palawan, I wouldn’t make Puerto Princesa a priority and instead spend more time in other places like Port Barton, El Nido, and Coron.

7. San Vicente – Famous for Palawan’s Longest Beach

Situated between Port Barton and El Nido, the remote town of San Vicente is primarily known for its famous ‘Long Beach.’ With a length of a whopping 14 kilometers, this beach lives up to its name and is, in fact, not only the longest sand beach in the Philippines but even one of the longest beaches in all of Asia.

Surprisingly, not many tourists come out here. This may be due to the reason that there isn’t much to do or see in San Vicente besides its beach. Still, if you have enough time and you’re looking for a calm place to relax for a couple of days, San Vicente might be just what you’re looking for.

The Best Things to Do in San Vicente:

• Take a leisurely stroll along Long Beach.
• Enjoy the view from Ningning Viewpoint.
• Rent a surfboard and hit the swell.

Where to Stay in San Vicente?

• Victoria Beach House* : Although not located on Long Beach, I loved my stay in Victoria’s Beach House. The rooms are basic but affordable and the hotel is located right on the neighboring beach to Long Beach). It’s only a short ride to town and there are a couple of restaurants nearby.
• Marina 4Rooms* : Marina 4Rooms is one of the most budget-friendly accommodations in San Vicente. The hotel offers cheap rooms and is located in a central area.
• Club Agutaya* : If you’re willing to spend a bit more for some comfort, you may enjoy staying in Club Agutaya which is located on Long Beach. The hotel provides spacious rooms with comfortable beds and even has a pool on site.

Note: When you search for accommodation in San Vicente online, many places in Port Barton show up, as Port Barton is officially part of the vicinity of San Vicente. So, make sure that your accommodation is located near Long Beach when making a booking.

How many days do you need in San Vicente?

Technically, you can see everything in San Vicente in one day. Walk along Long Beach, try your luck with surfing, and head to the viewpoint. However, if you want to relax and fully soak in the vibe, stay 2 – 3 days.

8. Southern Palawan – Travel off the Beaten Path

Last but not least, you may be wondering if there’s anything to do in Southern Palawan apart from the Balabac Islands. And yes, there are a few places worth checking out.

The nature on this side of Palawan may not be as spectacular as the northern part of the island but the towns are more authentic and less crowded. So, if you want to have a more local experience and travel off the beaten path, Southern Palawan is just the ticket!

Best Places in Southern Palawan (Mainland):

• Narra: A small town with impressive waterfalls (especially the Estrella Falls).
• Quezon: Known for the Tabon Caves, but there’s also a beautiful waterfall to visit (Tumarbong Falls).
• Napsan Beach: A quiet and small beachside village with an authentic flair.

Note: When traveling to Southern Palawan, there are some things to keep in mind. Southern Palawan is predominantly Muslim and more conservative than the North. Also, the infrastructure for tourism in this region is not as advanced, so it may be challenging to find ATMs or laundry services.

Where to stay in Southern Palawan ?

If you travel to South Palawan, I recommend booking accommodation on-site. Many guest houses don’t have an online presence, so it’s best to walk around and ask at the hotels if they have free rooms. Don’t expect too much comfort in Southern Palawan, though!

How many days do you need for Southern Palawan?

This depends on where exactly you want to go and how many places you want to visit. If you have enough time and you want to thoroughly explore the south, you could spend one to two weeks here.

How to Get to Palawan in the Philippines

If you don’t mind a long journey, you can catch a ferry to Palawan from Manila. Yet, most travelers decide to fly to Palawan as it’s much quicker and pretty cheap.

Palawan has several airports, providing you with multiple options for starting and ending your journey:

• Puerto Princesa: The cheapest flights to Palawan usually land in Puerto Princesa. If you want to visit several places on Palawan, this may be the best option, as you can make your way up north and visit Sabang, Port Barton, El Nido, and Coron in a straight route. To book a flight to Puerto Princesa, check Skyscanner* for the lowest prices.
• El Nido: If you have limited time on Palawan and you want to skip Puerto Princesa, you can also fly directly to El Nido via the national airline Airswift .
• Coron: Alternatively, you can also fly into or out of Coron. Check Airswift’s website for the best prices.

How to Get Around Palawan

Since most tourists follow a similar Palawan itinerary, getting around is relatively straightforward. You can book local buses and vans to most tourist destinations.

• Transport for long distances: Local buses are the cheapest mode of transportation when traveling from city to city, but they also stop more often and take longer than tourist vans. Vans, on the other hand, can be a bit rough on passengers with sensitive stomachs, as the drivers tend to think of the road as a racing ring. To secure your seat in advance you can book buses and vans through 12GoAsia* .
• Transport for short distances: In Puerto Princesa, you can use Jeepneys to get around. These old American Jeeps have been remodeled and are used as public transportation in most Filipino cities. Alternatively, you can take tricycles (local motorbike taxis with seating areas) or rent a motorbike. Motorbikes are available for rent in Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron.

Riding Scooters on Palawan: Most roads on Palawan are paved and in decent condition, but some beaches are only accessible via gravel roads. Also, watch out for dogs in the streets and drive slowly – particularly on windy roads.

Accommodation on Palawan

When it comes to finding accommodations on Palawan, you have plenty of options. The good news is, that while there is no shortage of luxurious beach resorts and 5-star hotels, a trip to Palawan doesn’t have to be expensive! The island is a popular destination for backpackers and budget-friendly accommodations and hostels are readily available.

These are my favorite websites for finding budget-friendly accommodation :

• Agoda* : In my opinion, Agoda is the best booking platform for accommodations in Southeast Asia. The mobile app typically offers the best prices and incredible last-minute deals.
• Booking.com* : Alternatively, Booking.com offers a wide range of accommodations. If you book regularly through the app, you get access to better deals and perks like free breakfast.
• Hostelworld* : Backpackers will love Hostelworld, where you can find the largest selection of hostels in Palawan.

Keep in mind: During peak season, it’s best to book accommodations in advance as the good and cheaper ones tend to fill up quickly. This is particularly the case in El Nido and Coron.

Is Palawan Safe for Tourists?

Northern Palawan is safe to visit and it’s even regarded to be one of the safest places for tourists in all the Philippines.

However, there are some safety concerns when it comes to South Palawan, particularly the Balabac Islands in the Sulu Sea. Many governments, including the US, have issued travel warnings for this region related to “crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping.”

While this sounds off-putting, it is still possible to travel to this region. I myself have thoroughly traveled Southern Palawan’s mainland and I felt just as safe as in northern Palawan.

Regarding the Balabac Islands, I can’t speak from my own experiences, but I know that it’s becoming a more popular destination for tourists and whenever I’ve talked to people who have visited these islands, they’ve never had anything bad to say about them.

Nonetheless, you should exercise more caution when traveling to Southern Palawan and the Sulu Sea and if you want to visit the Balabac Islands, I recommend going with a local guide.

Best Time to Visit Palawan

The best time to visit Palawan is during the dry season from January to April , but thanks to its tropical climate, you can expect hot temperatures all year round . Daytime temperatures generally range from 30 to 33 degrees Celsius (86 to 91 degrees Fahrenheit), and even at night, temperatures rarely drop below 23 degrees Celsius (73 degrees Fahrenheit).

From May onwards, you should expect frequent rain showers. Although Palawan seldom experiences direct hits from tropical storms, typhoons often skirt the island, particularly from September to November, resulting in heavy downpours and occasional storms.

Here’s a rough overview of Palawan’s climate with average monthly precipitation:

This graph shows the average rainfall per month. Still, weather conditions can vary from year to year, so it’s always a good idea to check the current weather forecast before your trip (although, from my experience, the weather forecast in Palawan is not always accurate and should be taken with a grain of salt).

Tips for Traveling Palawan

Palawan is an outstanding island in the Philippines and the perfect place for a vacation or backpacking trip. Still, there are a few things you should know:

• Electricity: Power outages are very common on Palawan – especially in El Nido. If you value a good night’s sleep and you don’t want to end up sweating in bed without air conditioning or a fan, I recommend booking accommodation with a generator as backup power.
• Drinking Water: Tap water in the Philippines is not safe to drink. If you don’t want to buy one plastic water bottle after another, head over to the “Water Refill Stations”, where you can refill your bottle with filtered drinking water for just a few pesos. These refill stations can be found all over the island.
• SIM Cards: There are two SIM card providers: Globe and Smart. You can buy SIM cards at most Sari-Sari stores (small kiosks) for about 50 PHP (appr. 1 USD) and a 7-day internet top-up costs about 100 PHP (appr. 2 USD).
• Wi-Fi: In towns like El Nido, Coron, and Puerto Princesa, hotels typically provide Wi-Fi for their guests. In smaller towns, Wi-Fi is not necessarily available and even your SIM card provider may not receive a good internet connection.
• Tipping culture: Tipping is not customary in the Philippines, but leaving a small tip can be a nice gesture when eating in very nice restaurants with good service. It’s never expected though and not practiced as a standard.
• Dress code: When staying in tourist areas, there is no particular dress code to consider – even for female travelers. Still, you should only wear swimwear at the beach and if you plan on traveling to Southern Palawan, I recommend female travelers not to dress too revealing as the southern part of the island is more conservative.
• Visa: Citizens from many nationalities, including US citizens, can enter the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days. If you want to stay longer, you can extend your stay at an immigration office inside the country. In Manila, you can extend your stay for up to six months at a time, and in any other immigration office, you can extend your stay for up to 2 months at a time. On Palawan, there is an immigration office located in Robinson Mall in Puerto Princesa.
• ATMs: These days, you shouldn’t have problems finding ATMs in Puerto Princesa, Port Barton, El Nido, and Coron, but you should make sure to bring enough cash if you travel to less visited places.
• Language: Tagalog is the primary language spoken on Palawan, but in tourist areas, most locals speak very good English as well.
• Jellyfish: Occasionally, you may encounter jellyfish, including box jellyfish, along the coast of Palawan. Jellyfish are mainly present in Port Barton, and if you get stung you should make sure to remove all tentacles before leaving the water. Avoid cooling the burn with fresh water or urine after you get stung, as this will only make it worse. Some locals say you should use vinegar or ground coffee to treat the sting, but even this information is controversial.
• Sandflies: Additionally, you should be aware of sandflies which are mostly present at Duli and Nacpan Beach. These insects are very small and barely visible to the naked eye, which is why you often don’t even notice when you get bitten. However, sandfly bites become very itchy the following day. To avoid them, you can apply insect repellent or oil, such as baby oil or coconut oil, which prevents sandflies from penetrating your skin.
• Sickness while traveling: Unfortunately, some travelers report getting an upset stomach or diarrhea when visiting El Nido. The exact cause for this is unknown, but locals speculate that it’s connected to the water. So, again, stay away from tap water and ask to have your vegetables washed with drinking water when eating fresh produce like salads in restaurants.
• Malaria and Dengue Fever: In some places of Palawan, there is a risk of Malaria and Dengue Fever, particularly during the rainy season. To avoid getting bitten by mosquitos, I recommend covering up with loose pants at night and using insect repellent when going to the rainforest. “Off! Overtime” is the best insect repellent I found on Palawan and it’s available in most stores on the island.

Travel Costs for Palawan

The cost for your travels in Palawan largely depends on the type of accommodations you book, where you choose to eat, and how many tours you participate in. Backpackers who are willing to eat local meals and stay in budget-friendly guest houses or hostels can travel Palawan on a very small budget.

Here you’ll find a rough overview of what you can expect to pay on the island (as a budget traveler):

• Budget Accommodation: Starting from 400 PHP
• Mid-Range Accommodation: Starting from 1,000 PHP
• Meal in a Restaurant: 200 – 500 PHP
• Meal at a Local Eaterie: 50 – 100 PHP
• Beer at a Shop: 50 PHP
• Beer at a Bar: 60 – 120 PHP
• Cocktails at a Bar: 2 cocktails for 250 PHP during happy hour
• Van Fares: A few hundred Pesos per trip (e.g. from Puerto Princesa to El Nido the van costs about 600 – 700 PHP per person)
• Bus Fares: Local buses are cheaper than tourist vans (e.g. from Puerto Princesa to El Nido the bus costs just over 200 PHP)
• Motorbike Rental: In tourist areas like El Nido, up to 500 PHP (negotiable!)
• SIM Card: 50 PHP per SIM card + 100 PHP per 7-day data load
• Tours (e.g., Island Hopping Tours or the Underground River Tour): 1,200 – 1,400 PHP

Daily Budget for a Backpacker: 800 to 2,000 PHP (appr. 15 – 36 USD)

Daily Budget for a Flashpacker: 2,000 to 3,000 PHP (appr. 36 – 55 USD)

Packing List for Your Palawan Trip

Are you visiting Palawan for the first time and you’re not sure what to bring? Then you can use this packing list as an example:

You can also download this list as a PDF file to print out or save on your phone. 😊

With fascinating limestone cliffs and awardwinning beaches, the north of Palawan is considered to be the most beautiful part of the island. El Nido and Coron, although somewhat touristy, are the main tourist spots on the island.

The ideal duration for your Palawan trip can vary depending on your interests and the amount of places you want to visit. Many travelers spend around 7 to 14 days in Palawan to explore the highlights, like El Nido and Coron, but you can adjust your itinerary based on your preferences. I recommend spending at least 10 days in Palawan if not more.

Palawan is one of the most visited islands in the Philippines and therefore quite touristy. However, it’s still worth visiting this spectacular island and if you want to skip the crowds, you can stick to places like Port Barton and Sabang which are less busy than El Nido and Coron.

Conclusion: Is Palawan Worth Visiting?

As someone who has lived on Palawan for almost two years, I can say yes, Palawan is absolutely worth visiting! The island is home to postcard-like beaches, stunning lagoons, and awe-inspiring limestone cliffs. On top of that, the countryside is filled with serene rice fields, lush rainforest, and even some waterfalls.

Yes, some places in Palawan, like El Nido and Coron, are very touristy and can get crowded. But there is a reason why these places are as popular as they are. Coron and El Nido are home to some of the best beaches in the world and the limestone formations will make an amazing background for your holiday photos. 😉

Plus, there are many things to do in Palawan . Whether you want to relax on the beach and drink cocktails, hike through the rainforest to see some waterfalls, or try your luck with watersports like surfing or diving- on Palawan there’s something to do for everyone!

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Palawan Beaches: White Sand and Palm Trees

Palawan is a charming archipelagic province in the Philippines and a very popular vacation destination in the country. If you’re thinking of traveling to Palawan for a relaxing beach vacation, then you’re definitely in the right place!

This guide to the best beaches in Palawan is the only one you need to read to know exactly what to expect from this mesmerizing island. Whether you’re planning to do an island hopping tour of Palawan or just want to stay in one place for a while, you’ll find plenty of locations worth visiting below!

Seven Commandos Beach

The Seven Commandos Beach is situated on the northwestern side of Palawan Island. It’s part of El Nido town, and it’s known for gorgeous white sand, turquoise water, and lush tropical vegetation that mostly consists of palms and coconut trees. El Nido is home to some of the best Palawan resorts , and it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island. 

This is a pretty secluded beach that can only be reached by boat, so it’s common to see boats docked in this bay. It’s worth noting that most boats visit this beach as part of island hopping tours, and they usually don’t stay here longer than an hour.

There’s also a three-star resort here, which is a good option for tourists who prefer privacy to crowds of population centers. The Seven Commandos Beach is a popular snorkeling spot on Palawan Island . There’s an abundance of reefs in the water just off the shore, and there are loads of attractions to explore on solid ground as well.

Nagtabon Beach

Nagtabon Beach is situated in Puerto Princesa, Palawan Island’s westernmost province. It’s easily accessible by cars and motorcycles, so it’s one of the best beaches to visit if you’re exploring Palawan Island on your own.

The beach is a vast stretch of sand with crystal clear sea and lush tropical vegetation. It’s absolutely pristine, and a great place for swimming, stand-up paddling, and even surfing, when the waves allow it.

Nagtabon Beach also features bars and restaurants, plus there are a few resorts in the area where you could stay for a while. Also, there’s an observation deck nearby, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the beach and its surroundings.

Las Cabanas Beach

Las Cabanas Beach is another gorgeous white sand beach in the El Nido municipality. It’s situated in one of the busier areas of El Nido, with loads of resorts, restaurants, and stores near the beach. If you would like to stay in a part of Palawan that has gorgeous beaches but it’s not too far from the urban centers, anywhere near Las Cabanas Beach is a good option.

This pristine beach is like a small slice of paradise with white sand, crystal clear sea, and lush vegetation. It’s incredibly picturesque and a great place to admire a beautiful sunset in the Philippines.

Also, there are several bars and eateries on the beach, in addition to the many resorts. If you’re looking for beautiful beaches in Palawan that also have all the amenities and facilities you might need during the day, this is definitely one of the best beaches on the island to consider.

Sabang Beach

Sabang Beach is a beautiful sandy beach surrounded by a jungle. The views here are absolutely spectacular, and they get even better if you venture a little further away from the popular beach.

Sabang Beach is also where you will find the Sabang Boat Terminal, which offers rides to Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. The underground river is one of the most popular attractions on this part of the island, and it’s definitely worth checking out if you’re already in the area.

The river cuts through a gorgeous sandy beach before it disappears into the caves and eventually underground. This quick boat trip is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and one of the highlights of trips to Palawan, so don’t miss out if you find yourself in Puerto Princesa!

Nacpan Beach

Nacpan Beach is a long beach in the northwestern part of Palawan Island. The southern part of the beach merges with the popular Twin Beach, which is also where the bulk of the resorts in the area are located. Most of Nacpan Beach is lined with coconut trees, for gorgeous views wherever you look.

This beautiful beach is very popular with tourists in Palawan, mostly because it’s easy to access and it has all the amenities you could possibly need. There are eateries and restaurants nearby, as well as ample hiking opportunities in the area. This beach is also close to El Nido, and it’s one of the most popular day trips from the urban center.

Additionally, there’s a spectacular viewpoint near the beach, which is a popular hiking destination in Nacpan. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of Nacpan Beach and its surroundings, and it’s definitely worth checking out if you make the trip to this fabulous Palawan beach.

Banol Beach

Banol Beach is one of the best beaches on Coron Island, which is a very popular tourist destination in this part of the Philippines. The small white sand beach is not exactly easily accessible and the best way to visit it is to join an island hopping tour of the best Palawan beaches.

Tall cliffs, lush tropical trees, white sand, and crystal clear sea are the main things this mesmerizing beach is known for. There’s an entrance fee for the beach, but it’s symbolic and definitely worth it.

Another thing to note about Banol Beach is that it’s popular with divers, thanks to a sunken wreck on the right end of the beach.

Duli Beach is situated in the northern part of Palawan Island and it is easily accessible from El Nido, the island’s main tourist hub. The beach is also far enough from the busy town that it doesn’t attract huge crowds, making it a great place for those who want to explore the beauty of Palawan, but would rather do so without dozens of other tourists in their way.

It’s entirely possible that you’ll have this gorgeous beach all to yourself, especially if you visit it early in the morning. Unless the waves are high – Duli Beach attracts quite a few surfers, thanks to excellent conditions that make it a great beach for surfing. There’s even a surf shack on the beach where you can rent equipment during peak season.

There are also a few restaurants at the southern end of the beach, as well as a laid-back resort. The closest town is just a 20-minute walk away, plus there are plenty of hiking opportunities near the northern side of the beach.

Marimegmeg Beach

Marimegmeg Beach is a popular beach in El Nido, situated north of Las Cabanas Beach. It’s known for golden sand, tall palm trees, and an abundance of beach bars that make it a prime location for beach parties. There’s only one resort on the beach, and it’s worth checking out thanks to the beautiful botanical gardens and reefs in the sea.

There are also several restaurants in close proximity to the beach, including a McDonald’s – a Hail Mary for all tourists who don’t like seafood but end up in the Philippines.

Marimegmeg Beach is also a very popular location for viewing sunsets, so definitely plan an evening visit if you can only spend a short time at this mesmerizing sandy beach.

Hidden Beach

The Hidden Beach is a remote beach in El Nido, and it’s one of the most popular destinations for island hopping tours in Palawan. The beach is situated on Matinloc Island, which is a small island off the west coast of Palawan. It’s not exactly easy to reach on your own, so consider joining an island hopping tour if you want to experience this stunning beach.

With tall cliffs, caves, sand, and crystal clear sea, there’s a lot to love about this beach. Snorkeling is also popular here thanks to the rich marine life, so be sure to bring your diving equipment when you’re visiting the Hidden Beach in El Nido.

It’s worth noting that you will most likely need to book a tour to visit this beach because it’s quite far away from Palawan Island. It’s worth the time and money without a doubt since it’s such a unique location in the Philippines.

Talaudyong Beach

Talaudyong Beach is a spectacular stretch of sand in Puerto Princesa. Situated on the western coast of Palawan Island, this beautiful beach is known for the azure sea, lush vegetation, and white sand.

It’s a beach without any facilities though, so it’s not the ideal place for families with children. This is also the reason why Talaudyong Beach is much more popular with locals than tourists, making it a great place for all travelers who prefer to avoid overcrowded beaches.

Just keep in mind that you should bring everything you think you might need if you plan to stay on this beach for more than an hour or two. There aren’t any restaurants in the area, and the resorts that are close to the beach are mostly run down, although it’s worth noting that new resorts are under construction.

About the Author Anna Timbrook

Anna is the co-owner of expert world travel and can't wait to share her travel experience with the world. With over 54 countries under her belt she has a lot to write about! Including those insane encounters with black bears in Canada.

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Palawan Travel Guide – Philippines ’ Most Beautiful Island!

Why visit palawan.

Palawan Island is a tropical paradise, with hands-down the best beaches I’ve been to in Southeast Asia. (In fact, second in broader Asia to the beautiful Maldives !) The ocean is all imaginable shades of turquoise, the beaches are sandy white, and the aquatic life is vibrant.

It’s therefore not surprising that Palawan was voted the World’s Best Island by Travel & Leisure in 2015 and 2016. It also received similar accolades from Conde Nast and National Geographic. A beach bum’s dream destination!

This Palawan travel guide will help you plan the perfect Palawan break!

Note: This post contains affiliate links. That means that if you click a link, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Where to Go in Palawan + Palawan Activities

Palawan travel is all about the tropical beaches and island hopping! We visited El Nido and Port Barton, and spent our time island hopping, kayaking, snorkeling, chilling at beach bars, reading and patting beach dogs (always a favorite holiday activity). Highlights were the beautiful clear water and the snorkeling, where we saw lots of tropical fish and a few turtles.

El Nido or Coron Island-Hopping

For island-hopping, the most popular Palawan travel destinations are El Nido and Coron, and for good reason. So which one is best?

Coron is considered better for divers and is more laidback (read: slightly quieter).

El Nido has incredible lagoons and more nightlife.

However, Coron and El Nido both have beautiful islands and excellent snorkeling. If you can’t fit in both, choose one and you’ll be guaranteed to have an incredible holiday. Read this article and this article for a more in depth comparison of El Nido and Coron.

Island hopping at beautiful El Nido

We chose El Nido for the stunning Bacuit Bay and chilled beach bars. The down-side? More than a few others had the same idea (surprising that!). We found ourselves sharing the idyllic islands with a string of boats that follow the exact same tour path and descend on the same islands at the same time. The fact that they’re named Tour A, B, C and D should probably give this away…

We attempted to avoid the crowds with a private island hopping tour, with mixed success. The boats are required to follow the same route for their permit. We did, however, manage to convince our driver to skip an island or two so that we could reach the next island before the rest of the boats.

Port Barton for Laid Back Beach Vibes

If El Nido’s all too busy for you, then Port Barton may just be the answer. Port Barton is a sleepy fishing village on a quiet beach, with a laid back vibe and rustic accommodation. Even better, Port Barton opens up to beautiful islands and bays to rival El Nido.

As with El Nido, the main activities are island hopping tours, but with much less boat traffic. Happily, it’s still possible to find a deserted island all to yourself. Again, we did a private island hopping tour. Unlike El Nido, our driver managed to dodge the crowds and find our own little slice of paradise. (Note: We first had to convince him that we were happy to miss the ‘famous’ beaches that everyone else was visiting.)

Island hopping at Port Barton – just as beautiful as El Nido, sans crowds

As well as island hopping, Port Barton has a couple of short hikes to lush waterfalls with swimming holes. These are well worth the trip for a change of scenery. (Just in case you get bored of sandy white beaches and limestone rock formations).

Port Barton has been slightly off the tourist radar. This which could be due to the bumpy gravel roads going in and fewer dining and accommodation options. I suspect this all may change in coming years, as road upgrades and hotel developments are in progress. Visit while it’s still a laid back locale and you won’t be disappointed.

Puerto Princesa Underground River

Other than island hopping, the main attraction in Palawan is the Puerto Princesa Underground River. The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can travel by boat through the world’s longest navigable underground river through a network of limestone caves.

The underground river is around 80km from Puerto Princesa. You can easily visit on a day trip from Puerto Princesa or even en route to Port Barton or El Nido.

With its limestone karst landscape and otherworldly atmosphere, it’s easy to see why the underground river is one of the most popular attractions in Palawan. However, as with any tourist hotspot, this inevitably comes with packaged tour pitfalls and plenty of crowds.

After reading the TripAdvisor reviews (most of which are very positive), we decided to give the underground river a miss in favor of more beach time, as we prefer to avoid the hordes and have been treated to incredible caves on other trips.  

Palawan Travel and Transport

The Philippines isn’t the easiest place to get around, and it often takes a full day to get from A to B. Plan your time accordingly.

Most international and domestic flights go via Manila or Cebu, so you’ll often need to take a connecting flight, and overland transfers can be slow. A hassle when you’re travelling, but it does mean that the stunning Philippines islands are less crowded than most Asian beach hotspots.  

How to Get to Palawan

In Palawan, most people fly into Puerto Princesa, where there’s regular flights from Manila and Cebu. You can also fly direct from Manila to El Nido and Coron to get your island-hopping on without an overland transfer. Expect to pay more for these flights in exchange for saving a good few hours in a van.

We flew direct from Manila to El Nido on a morning Air Swift in around 1h 15m. The extra $100 or so for flights was quickly forgotten when we gained an extra day in paradise and were swimming in the ocean by 10am.  

How to Get Around Palawan

Once you’re in Palawan, it’s pretty easy to get around, if a little slow.

Port Barton and El Nido:  You can get a shared shuttle van from Puerto Princesa to Port Barton in 3-4 hours or from Puerto Princesa to El Nido in 5-6 hours. Times are slightly faster (and the trip more comfortable) if you fork out for a private van transfer.

Coron:  To get to Coron, take a short flight from Puerto Princesa (1h 20m) or a ferry from El Nido (around 3.5 hours).

Around town:  Local transport around the towns is the tricycle, the Filipino version of a tuk tuk. Tricycles are cheap, easy and convenient. However, they’re not as comfortable as some other tuk tuks as it’s a tight squeeze to fit two people in and the roads are bumpy.

Pretty chuffed with my tricycle airport pick up

Palawan Travel Accommodation

Palawan accommodation ranges from backpacker hostels to boutique guesthouses to luxury private island resorts, and everything in between. Whatever your budget, you’ll find something to suit in Palawan.

Luxury:  I was pretty tempted by El Nido Resorts .  El Nido Resorts is a group of luxury resorts dotted on stunning islands across El Nido with prices to match ($500+ per night when I was looking). I almost booked El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island , but (unusually!) managed to restrain myself from blowing an entire holiday’s budget on a few night’s accommodation, and instead went for mid-range boutique options.

El Nido Accommodation :  We spent four nights at The Birdhouse El Nido , unique glamping tents perched on a cliff above the lovely Marimegmeg Beach. The tents have all the creature comforts you need, with decent beds, bathrooms and, best of all, balconies with out of this world views of the bay below.

Marimegmeg Beach is the nicer of the mainland beaches and has some chilled beach bars to laze the day away at. 

Stunning views over Marimegmeg Beach from the Birdhouse ‘nests’

Port Barton Accommodation :   We then spent four nights at Secret Paradise Resort & Turtle Sanctuary , a small resort on a private island which has to be up there with the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited. Big call, I know, but I’m throwing it out there.

If you can cope with pretty average food and service, then I definitely recommend Secret Paradise Resort for the stunning location, tranquility, snorkeling and chance to see turtles laying or hatching on the beach. ( Tip : Take your own snorkeling gear, theirs sucks.)

Secret Paradise Resort from the lookout – definitely an apt name!

Palawan Climate + Best Time to Visit Palawan

Palawan dry season.

While temperatures remain pleasant year around with an average high of 30 degrees, Palawan travel is best during the dry season from November to May .

From November, the rains ease off, but don’t completely disappear, and it can rain at any time during the dry season.

December to February is the cool dry season.  March to May is the hot dry season, with humidity peaking in hottest months of April and May.

Weather wise, the very best months for Palawan travel are during the drier and relatively cooler months of February and March.

If you’re a diver, water visibility is said to be best from March to May. As a bonus, the ocean is also the calmest during this time.

Palawan Rainy Season

The rainy season starts in earnest from June and continues until around November. During this time, there can be heavy monsoon rains, rough seas and muddy roads. All of this can put a slight damper on a tropical beach holiday, or even stop Palawan travel altogether if you encounter a severe tropical storm.

Palawan Travel Guide Tips

Money: Take plenty of pesos! The only ATMs on Palawan (as at 2018) are in Puerto Princesa and one in El Nido (which regularly runs out of money!) and not many places take cards.

Snorkelling Gear:   Bring your own snorkel gear if possible. We found that supplies were limited and of pretty poor quality. Not fun having a face full of seawater.

Food: The Philippines is not known for its food, and they seem to have a penchant for putting vinegar in EVERYTHING. I subsisted on rice and vegetables with a little bit of fish. Even then it wasn’t anything to write home about. Beer was cheap and tasty though!

Service:  Service ranges from ‘island time’ to virtually non-existent. Try to manage your expectations and go with the flow, and you’ll soon be rolling in island time too. (Or, let it get to you, and you’ll be constantly frustrated. Your choice.)

I hope you’ve enjoyed this Palawan travel guide. Palawan has been my favorite Southeast Asian beach holiday by far. I’d love to explore more of the Philippines islands in the future. I’d love some tips for the rest of the Philippines, so share away in the comments if you’ve been there!  

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As a Korean living in the Philippines, I have grown to love this country and consider it my second home. I love the warmth not just of the weather but of the people as well.

This is a very good itinerary <3 Will bookmark this page for future reference when I go visit Palawan next year. Thankssss!

I can’t wait to retire in the Philippines. There’s just so much to see, discover and enjoy in your country. The people are also just as amazing

Palawan is very beautiful and interesting, I want to go there soon. I want to discover something.

Indeed! Palawan is a great place and must be on your bucket list. Ive been to El Nido and spent 3 days, and Puerto Princessa and spent 5 days last year. I wish i could stay longer. LOL. I like the calm environment. So relaxing. So natural. I like the people and the cleanliness of them. But no one knows that it was the last. I mean now that there was corona virus, I’m afraid of. So the next destination if the corona virus already vanished is Coron. I heard of it but never been there.

Palawan is definitely one of the most beautiful places in the world, and probably the best island to visit in the Philippines! The only thing is that, as of now and due to the pandemic, it’s out of tourists and economically struggling… Let’s hope a new more eco-responsible tourism will follow when its possible to travel again.

Your blog post on Palawan is truly captivating! Your vivid descriptions of the turquoise ocean, sandy white beaches, and vibrant aquatic life have painted a beautiful picture of this tropical paradise. Your practical tips on travel, accommodation, and local activities are incredibly helpful for anyone planning a trip to this stunning location.

Next time don’t forget to visit Balabac in Southern Palawan

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Relaxing 4-Day Coron Palawan Package at Top-Rated The Funny Lion Hotel with Flights from Manila

Relaxing 3-Day Palawan Package at Charlie's El Nido with Daily Breakfast & Airport Transfers

Budget-Friendly 4-Day Coron Palawan Package at Skylodge Resort with Flights from Manila & Tour

Low-Cost 5-Day Coron Palawan Package at Skylodge Resort with Island Hopping Tour & Daily Breakfast

Fun-filled 4-Day El Nido Palawan Package at Charlie's El Nido with Island Hopping & Airfare

Stress-Free 5-Day Coron Palawan Package at Bacau Bay Resort with Flights from Manila

Relaxing 5-Day Palawan Package at Hue Hotel Puerto Princesa with Underground River Tour

Stress-Free 5-Day Charlie's El Nido Palawan Package with Island Hopping Tour & Daily Breakfast

Exciting 4-Day Palawan Package at Hue Hotel Puerto Princesa with Island Hopping Tour & Breakfast

Romantic 11-Day Honeymoon Package to Coron & El Nido Palawan from Manila

Stunning 10-Day Tour to Best Beaches of Cebu, Boracay & El Nido Palawan Package from Manila

Luxurious 3-Day Coron Club Paradise Palawan Resort Island Package with Flights from Manila

Magical 1-Week Beaches & Nature Tour to Cebu, Boracay & El Nido Palawan Package from Manila

1-Week Highlands & Islands Tour to Cebu, Baguio, Puerto Princesa Palawan Package from Manila

Amazing 12-Day Islands, Lagoons & Lakes Tour to Coron & El Nido Palawan from Manila

Scenic 1-Week Beaches & Nature Vacation Package to Cebu, Puerto Princesa & El Nido Palawan

Ultimate 12-Day Beaches Tour to Boracay & El Nido Palawan Package from Manila

5-Day Nature & Islands Adventure Package to Puerto Princesa and El Nido Palawan

Impressive 13-Day Islands, Beaches & Nature Tour Package to Coron, El Nido & Puerto Princesa Palawan

2-Week Stunning Islands & Beaches Tour to Coron, Puerto Princesa & El Nido Palawan from Manila

1-Week Scenic Nature & Islands Tour Package to Cebu & Puerto Princesa Palawan from Manila

10-Day Thrilling Islands, Turtles, Dolphins & Whale Sharks Tour to Bohol, Cebu & Coron Palawan

Exciting 4-Day Coron Palawan Package at TAG Resort with Flights from Manila or Clark & Town Tour

Comfy 4-Day Coron Palawan Budget Package at Ruhe Suites with Flights from Manila, Tour & Transfers

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Hanneke Jacobs

Guide to the Philippines has really helped me to get around Palawan, and always making sure if I was comfortable. That was really nice! Hotels -Hue hotel was perfect! Very nice and comfortable, and great styling. The food was super, and the staff nice. The breakfast options were amazing!!! -For the budget option i was supposed to have another hotel, but because it was so busy, I had to switch to Marianne hotel. A hotel that is not finished yet, and still under construction, so no pool and quite some noise and building site smells. Room was all right, but the cleaning could have been better (water stains on mirror and such). Breakfast was not so good, the second day I even chose to have it somewhere else. Transport The transport was arranged perfectly! Nice drivers and on time. Tours - underground river was amazing! Otherworldly! We were lucky because of the weather, other ones were canceled. Lunch was ok. Apparently people could choose an add on to this tour, and go ziplining. Some chose to do this, resulting in having to wait for quite a while. Could have done without that, -honda bay tour was super! The lunch they prepared was absolutely lovely, and the guide took well care of us. We saw some lovely islands and beautiful beaches! Good atmosphere! - Tour C El Nido : i was supposed to be on another tour but in all confusion, i ender up on this one. It was too crowded, and the boat with 30 capacity had 43 tourists on it. After asking, they had to get extra life jackets from another boat. It was not comfortable with so many people on the boat and on the islands. It really was mass tourism, but at least I saw the beautiful nature! All in all, I am very happy I had the help of Guide to the Philippines and would definitely book again! But no more El Nido! Thank you!

Duncan McIlwraith

Notice of itinerary change arrived the day before our tour started! Despite having booked and paid 2 months previous, island flights had not been booked. This meant two boat tours on successive days, no rest day and first destination cut short. Too long at the following hotel ( which had a bad drain smell) and a late flight to Manila , this meant hanging around and then arriving 8pm in the dark. Extremely unprofessional. We asked for assistance to book four days following our island tour, a reservation was made and cancelled on our way back to Manila, we made our own reservation. The on site agents were polite and punctual. The weather was nice.

Rahul Mondal

Very Nice Trip - well planned and responsive support team.

Mary Jane Lozada

A worth it splurge! provided with laid out customised itineraries, Guide to the Philippines has made my vacation so easy and enjoyable. I felt to independent yet well guided. All the partner hotel and travels and tours agents were all so accommodating attentive and friendly! The tours deliver, regardless of the number of tourists, I had a firefly tour with their partner Becool travels and tours, I was solo, yet it was a magical experience and I had a solo feast! :) Skylodgehotel provided me with emergency contact numbers incase of emergency. I felt so secured! so excited to plan my next travel with Guide to the Philippines! :)

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Ultimate Travel Guide to Balabac, Palawan: The Last Paradise

Here’s your ultimate travel guide to Balabac, Palawan! Including a sample 5 days itinerary you can follow for your trip.

Last 2015, Hali and I were exchanging stories with a 60-year-old fellow traveler who then told us about Balabac. For the uninitiated, Balabac group of islands is a relatively unknown summer haven for backpackers seeking unspoilt beaches and preserved local culture. In my opinion, it has the best beaches you can find in the Philippines .

Balabac is located at the southernmost tip of Palawan in the Philippines and is just a few hours away from Sabbah, Malaysia.

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Along with five other friends, Hali and I ventured here on the first week of March 2016 for our first summer escapade (and also Hali’s birthday celebration — he said age isn’t important). It was a bit challenging to arrange a DIY vacation to Balabac. At the time of our trip, there was very little material in the internet especially with regards to island hopping prices and contact details.

So much has changed since our last visit. We’ve updated this post with the latest information , including info on packaged tours to Balabac so you’ll have a hassle-free travel. Enjoy!

P.S. Traveling to Balabac, soon? I also recommend reading our Guide to Island Hopping in Balabac, Palawan .

Option 1: Via Rio Tuba

Option 2: via buliluyan port, when is the best time to visit, islands to visit in balabac, palawan, 5 days itinerary to balabac, palawan, island hopping tours only, full packaged tours, where to stay in rio tuba, where to stay in balabac, things to know before you go, things to bring on your trip, contact details, budget and expenses, is it safe to visit balabac, which places are similar to balabac, watch our video here, what to read next:, how to get to balabac, palawan.

The closest airport to Balabac is Puerto Princesa Airport. From there, you need to travel to either Rio Tuba port or Buliluyan port and then ride a boat to Balabac. It will take you at least a day to get to Balabac.

In Puerto Princesa, ride a trike or jeep to San Jose Terminal. Tricycle fare from the airport is P120. If you walk outside the airport to the main road, tricycle fare is P70-100 per ride and jeepney fare is P12-15 per person.

From San Jose Terminal, ride either a bus or van going to Rio Tuba. Travel time is 4-5 hours. Commuting via van is faster since there are lesser stopovers, although you will still need to wait for other passengers to fill up all the seats. Fare for the van is P300 per person.

Van Schedules:

• Puerto Princesa to Rio Tuba: 4AM to 5PM
• Rio Tuba to Puerto Princesa: 4AM to 3PM

Bus Schedules:

• Puerto Prinesa to Rio Tuba: Up to 7PM

Regardless of which transport you choose, it’s safe to be at the terminal at around 5-6PM to make sure you won’t miss a ride to Rio Tuba.

From Rio Tuba, ride a passenger boat to Balabac.

Travel time is 4 hours, boat fare is P370. Normally, there is only one schedule for the boat via Rio Tuba-Balabac route, which is anywhere from 9AM to 12 noon. The boat leaves immediately once all seats are taken. A boatman told us they make a second trip depending on the number of passengers, but I get the impression that this rarely happens.

If you arrive at night in Rio Tuba, you can sleepover at the nearby White Heaven Lodging which is just near the port. From there, take a tricycle to the port (P20 per person).

The passenger boat makes a few stops. You’re about an hour away from mainland Balabac after you pass by Bancalan Port.

Similarly, there is also one schedule for the boat from Balabac to Rio Tuba: at 6AM in the morning. The boat is either docked in the unloading pier or VCI, depending on the sea level.

Depending on your itinerary, you can also opt to travel from Puerto Princesa to Buliluyan Port instead of Rio Tuba. There are no passenger boats in Buliluyan Port. Instead, your boat operator for island hopping will have to fetch you from here to Balabac. This port is closer to some islands in Balabac, including Patunggong Island and Tangkahan Island. If you want to go straight to island hopping, this is a better choice.

Same as above: In Puerto Princesa, ride a trike or jeep to San Jose Terminal.

Then ride a van to Buliluyan Port. Fare is P600 per person. Travel time is 5 hours.

Summer is the best time to visit Balabac . As per Anj of Kilometer Zero PH, ber-months are still okay but during the amihan season (from December to February) the waves can get particularly rough.

There are different islands you can visit in Balabac. These are:

• Bancalaan Island
• Camiaran Island (Pink Sand Beach)
• Onuk Island (also called Onok Island)
• Candaraman Island (Starfish Sandbar)
• Sicsican Island
• Ramos Island
• Canabungan Island
• Nasubata Island
• Punta Sebaring
• Patunggong Island
• Patawan Island
• Mansalangan sandbar
• Matangule sandbar
• Bobby’s Island
• Secam Island
• Cabcabun Island
• Tangkahan Island
• Timbayan Island (rock formation)
• Balabac Island – Melville Lighthouse

In my opinion, the best islands to visit are : Camiaran Island, Onuk Island/Onok Island, Patawan Island, Candaraman Island, Mansalangan sandbar, Punta Sebaring and Tangkahan Island.

To know more about the islands in Balabac, read our Guide to Island Hopping in Balabac, Palawan . We also have a separate feature on Onuk Island .

Take note that the islands in Balabac are mostly privately owned, so public access may change.

As of 2019 , visiting Melville Lighthouse in no longer allowed. Candaraman Island is also closed but it is still possible to visit the sandbar.

Here’s a sample 5 days itinerary to Balabac, Palawan. You can use it as a rough guide when you visit Balabac.

Coordinate with your boatmen since they know which are the best hours to visit the islands. For instance, places such as Punta Sebaring, Onuk Island/Onok Island and the sandbars need to be visited during low tide, which changes per season.

Due to the long commute time, it’s recommended to stay 5-7 days in Balabac, Palawan.

Where to book your tours in Balabac

You can book your island hopping tour directly with the local boat operators in Balabac. There are also travel agencies offering full packaged tours to Balabac, which is convenient especially if you’re a solo or couple joiner.

Also included are the current island hopping rates ( Updated as of 2022 ).

Kuya Boboy and Kuya Onyok were our guides and we highly recommend them. If you decide to hire them via this blog, please tell them that we (Katherine and Hali) say Hi! Ate Lorna is a relative of them and she also arranges tours to Balabac.

Here is their contact:

• Kuya Onyok : 09123993543 / Kuya Boboy : 09309822412 | Facebook
• Ate Lorna : 09066909547 / 09465576503

Their rates are 4-6 people: P1500 per head/day, 7-10 people: P1200 per head/day.

These prices include the island hopping tour and meals. Accommodation can be booked in the mainland or islands separately.

For complete packaged tours, I recommend Gala PH by JV Francisco. I went with them on my second visit in Balabac . I had a blast, the food was overwhelming and overall I highly recommend their services.

Gala PH arranges joiner tours to Balabac, including transfer from PPS to Balabac and vice versa, island hopping, accommodation and meals.

Here is their contact: Gala PH – Facebook

Their rate is P9500 per person for a 3-day tour, including transfer from Puerto Princesa and vice versa, island hopping tour, meals, and accommodation (tent only).

Where to stay

Staying overnight in Puerto Princesa? You can check out discounted inns/hotels in PPS here .

Here are the main accommodations you can book for your trip to Balabac, Palawan.

• White Heaven Lodging . Rates: Room for 2 pax – P250
• Dewelyn Lodging House . Contact: 0999034854
• Pring Pension House . Rates: Fan room with common CR – P300 / AC room w/o breakfast – P700 or with breakfast – P900. Contact: 09265844805

White Heaven Lodging is near the port of Rio Tuba so it’s the recommended to stay here.

Here are the places you can stay at in mainland Balabac.

• JD lodging (Sing and Swing lodge) . Rates: Fan room with common CR for 2 pax – P500 / AC room for 2 pax – P1000. Contact: 09106620073
• MLK lodging . Rates: Room for 2 pax – P500. Contact: 09395176169
• Mely Bechayda Pension House . Rates: Fan room with common CR – P500 / Shared big room with own CR – P250 per person. Contact: 09264049171
• Biga-Biga Beach Resort . (No info)

We stayed at JD lodging for the duration of our trip. The rooms are surprisingly spacious. The restrooms and shower stalls are for common sharing but clean and regularly maintained. The electricity in the whole Balabac group of islands is up until midnight only, but you can request for the generator to be turned on during the night in JD Lodging for P300 per night (all rooms covered).

There are also islands where you can find resorts/camping grounds. Some of these are:

• Candaraman Island
• Canibungan Island
• Matangule Island
• Punta Sebaring (Bugsuk Island)
• Onuk Island/Onok Island

If you’re availing of a packaged tour, accommodation is already taken cared of.

Here are the things you should know about before you go:

• Bring all the cash that you need; there is no ATM or bank in Balabac. The nearest one is located in Rio Tuba.
• Be prepared to go on rough backpacking, i.e., camping on islands. You can also stay in mainland Balabac, but going to/from here when you island hop might be time consuming, which is why the usual itinerary includes staying overnight in islands.
• Mobile signal is non-existent or weak in most places in Balabac.

• You can buy Malaysian goods such as mi goreng noodles as pasalubong in mainland Balabac or Sitio Marabun, a local community on stilts which you’ll pass by going back to Buliluyan Port.
• Insect repellent
• For camping: Tent/hammock, flashlight and powerbank
• Snorkel set/fins

There are islands in Balabac that are home to sand flies (or niknik), such as Punta Sebaring. Make sure to bring insect repellent and balm for insect bites.

There’s a lot of snorkeling/freediving sites in Balabac. However, there are no rental stores in this area so you should bring your own equipment.

Here are other contact details you may need:

• Kuya Jerry, shuttle service Puerto Princesa City – Rio Tuba : 0927 705 5910/0946 260 6260

Update as of January 2018:  Ate Bebeth is no longer part of the tourism office, and I’ve removed her contact detail above.

Budget depends on the package you choose. For 5-6 days stay good for 4 people, a safe budget would be P9000-10,000 per person.

Additional: FAQ Section

I’ve added this section as an update. Ever since posting this Balabac Palawan itinerary and other features, we’ve been drowning in inquiries, and though the attention is flattering, sadly I can’t keep up with all the messages.

When we visited in 2016, we found out thru inquiries in our blog that there are security issues in Balabac. However, it is our personal experience that Balabac is safe for foreign and local tourists.

As of 2019 , tourism in Balabac is expanding and there are currently no security concerns about visiting here.

There are other places you can visit in Palawan. The unique thing about Balabac is it’s the most remote and possibly the least commercialized as of yet.

Puerto Princesa  offers its own island hopping and scuba diving adventures, not to mention the world-renown Puerto Princesa Underground River .  El Nido and Coron  are world-known vacation spots, famous for limestone karsts and clean lagoons. There are also low-key destinations in Palawan that offer a quiet time off, such as Port Barton .

If you’re looking for off-beaten beaches, we recommend:

• Calayan Island in Babuyan Islands, Cagayan
• Palaui Island in Cagayan

If you want to get an idea of other great attractions, here’s a list of the best places to visit in the Philippines .

Thank you to everyone who helped me in creating this guide! If you have updated information, please let us know thru comments/email so we can update this post as well.

Don’t forget to watch our summer experience in Balabac, Palawan, in this video:

Has this Balabac Palawan itinerary and travel guide been helpful to you ? Feel free to like and share. Oh and post your comments below! 🙂

Visiting Palawan? Check out the rest of our guides in Palawan:

• Ultimate Guide to Palawan
• Top Things to Do in Palawan
• Best Beaches in Palawan

Puerto Princesa :

• Guide to Puerto Princesa Underground River
• Island Hopping in Honda Bay
• Best Resorts and Hotels in Puerto Princesa
• Travel Guide to Coron
• Best Resorts in Coron Palawan
• Travel Guide to El Nido
• Best Resorts in El Nido Palawan
• Travel Guide to Balabac
• Island Hopping in Balabac
• Onuk Island

Port Barton :

• Travel Guide to Port Barton + 3 Days Itinerary
• Top Things to Do in Port Barton
• Island Hopping in Port Barton

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Katherine Cortes is a long-time backpacker and a freelance writer/editor. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs!).

129 Comments

Irena filipovic dimitrijevic.

Anybody wants to go with us and share expenses, in 3 days to Balabac? So, the dates are Februaru 20th- night in Rio Tuba, and after that 3 nights on Balabac. Johannes and Irena

its my futured island…Balabac is a unique in the whole world…lets safe Palawan forever.. 🙂

Hello, do you have a scheduled boat trip from Buliluyan Port to Balabac? Or we have to rent a private boat for that? would you know hm?

Katherine Cortes

Hello. There are no passenger ferries from Buliluyan Port. You have to rent a private boat. Usually it’s included in island hopping rates, as today most tourists go this route.

Maybe we can go together. my desired schedule is Jan 31 to Feb 2, 2020. My number is 09289106175

Ron Orlovsky

Hi there! Katherine! This is soooooo helpful! A friend and I are looking to travel Balabac during Christmas break. Anytime between 24th-29th of December, 2019. We are looking for joiner to share the “burden” 🙂 Feel free to email: [email protected] .

Sushil Kumar

hi we are 2 adults and a child 13 yrs planning for balabac from the 16 th of jan to 20th of jan 2020 any body who wishes to join can please mail me on [email protected] thank you

Hello, I will fly to Puerto Princesa on January 26 and will stay in Palawan till mid of February (single traveller). Do you think, it is possible, to organize joining a Balabac-Island-hopping-tour just after arrival in Puerto Princesa on January 27 or 28? Since I don’t want to rush, I would reserve up to 7 days for such a tour if it is necessary. But I am a foreigner (Europe). From the videos on Youtube it seems, that there have been some foreigners doing such tours in 2019. Is it possible, to join a tour being the only foreigner? Or is a foreigner still a risk for the whole group, like Bryan mentioned in his comment from February 2018?

Hi Carl, you’ll probably be fine. Also Balabac is more open to visitors now compared to the past years since word about it is slowly getting out.

Not sure how you’re going to organize a tour after arrival unless you already have/will meet other companions there. Why don’t you post in FB groups to see who’d also like to go or you can contact Ate Lorna to ask if she has scheduled guests on those dates. You can also go solo but it’s more expensive.

We will be in palawan on january 29 to feb 4. Can we join? 2 persons

Hello everyone, I will travel in balabac on February 2-7, 2020, two of us, expecting others to join.my email [email protected]

hi guys. my friend and i will be in balabac from nov 18 to 20. if theres anyone who we can join with the tours kindly send me an email please, [email protected] . mys sister in laws brother lives in rio tube and owns a boat so maybe we can get a discount for the trips. tia.

Jared dela Cruz

Your post and your pictures are truly inspiring, thank you so much. I have never heard of Balabac until recently. But from then on, I’ve been dreaming of going there, the last paradise in the Philippines’ last frontier.

Blog is very nice and details. Ilm planning in May 2019. Can i get WhatsApp no. Of some tour operator?

Hi! Better contact their mobile numbers directly because whatsapp isn’t used much here in the ph.

Seemed like an awesome experience you had. Was this a DIY trip that you planned yourselves or did you purchase a full package with a tour company beforehand? Very helpful post.

Hi Nicole. As said in the blog post, we did it DIY. Nowadays there are tours in Balabac which we’d recommend you do instead. 🙂

Hi! Pwede pong pakiconfirm if that is still the number of kuya onyok? I texted the number and inquired about rates. He asked for a downpayment and gave a different name (might be his real name?) But since malaki ung downlayment na hinihingi niya, medyo worried lang ako.

Hi Ren, sorry for the late reply. The number was still working a few months back, but we got the updated numbers here: Kuya Onyok – 09123993543, Kuya Boboy – 09073892313. 🙂 We also updated the guide.

Sarah L. Grageda

Hi Katherine! In Balabac or Rio Tuba, is there any available motorcycle that is for rent? If there is, I’d like to know the average price of the rent per day. Thanks!

I’m not sure. If you find one I’m guessing it’ll be around P400-500 per day? That’s how much motorcycle rental costs in other places in Palawan.

Hi! Anybody here who has contacts for mainland Balabac tours? Thank you in advance!

We live in Palawan (in Brooke’s Pt.) but when I told him I want to visit Balabac, he said no:( Want to visit the island badly :((

Bout dun sa 1,2 and 3days package tour in onok island?

May i know what is included on that packages?

Krista Matias

Palawan is really such a beautiful island, and I am planning to go there this year. I am glad I have read this blog, I am really looking forward to trying out these exciting activities in there. Thank you for sharing the beauty of Palawan.

Mhat Hidalgo

Hello! We’re actually heading rio tuba now with friend. Ask ko Lang yung tour package na 4500 per head for two 3d2n San ang pick up point? Thanks . Any joiners? Please pm me

I’ve heard about the “niknik” during the night, how bad is it? is OFF Lotion not enough to drive them away?

Nope. Even if it works I don’t think you’ll be very comfortable with insects around you.

I’m planning to go on my own this June or end of may who wants to Join me, so we can save more money I’ll bring my own tent as well

you want to check kilometerph meron na silang na organized na group. at may mga scheds na rin

Anyone going to palawan in june? Im island hopping and would love to visit balabac

I’m planning to go on my own this June or end of may

Jay Sebastian

Hi. I am planning to go to Balabac second week of August (9th).

Are there any of you here travelling around this time? If I can join your team that would be very nice.

Please give the contact number of tourism officer if you have.

Hi, we’re planning to go to Balabac on June 13-17. Hope we can find a group of travellers to whom we can join, so it will lessen our tight budget.

George Gaskell

hello, [email protected] here. George for short. A friend and I plan to go round about the same time; June 13-17. 2019. Please email your details if interested to join up and cut costs. And a million thanks too Katherine & Hali for this wonderful bit of info.

Eejay Corceles

Hi belle, my girlfriend and i are actually scheduled to tour balabac on june 13-17, 2019. DM me on instagram @eejayboang

Hi! I’ll be in Balabac from May 10 to 15. I hope I can join other groups to save money for the island hopping. Mac

Hello! We’re going to Balabac this coming June 2018? Anyone who wants to join us during our island hopping from June 8 to 10?

Hi! Are you still looking for travel buddies? My two friends and I will be in Palawan from June 6-11 and we’re planning to go to Balabac.

June 6 to 11 might work for me and a friend. Please email just in case we are able to manage these dates, so as to enable us to cut costs. Thanks and thanks again to Katherine and Hali for sharing.

June 8 to 10 might work for me and a friend. Please email just in case we are able to manage these dates, so as to enable us to cut costs. Thanks and thanks again to Katherine and Hali for sharing.

i and my husband were able to go march 19-21 and i would say this is by far my best beach experience ever in my many years of traveling to different beach locations in the country. we had such a great time. we met new friends during our island hopping. six of those who were featured in KMJS last sunday were with us in onuk island which we enjoyed the most. those who are going, please do not miss onuk. the hefty entrance fee is so worth it. i have so many stories to tell, good and not so good about this trip but i will need to write a blog about it. 🙂

Hi Judy thanks for sharing your experience. 😉

Hello! May I know who was your tour guide/boat operator and how was your transaction with him/her? Thanks.

Hello. I just saw this post and planning to go there alone 🙁 Let me know if I can join so that I can save cost

Hi! We are planning to go to balabac this may 29 (departure from manila). Any group interested to join para makamura tayo? PM me on FB- Sunshine Cervantes

get fidel….madali sya kausap at okay ang package rates nya

Earlier of May po meron?

May 2-6 pm me 09174037478 confirmed

Hi Sunshine. PMed you in FB already.

Jamie Lou Garces

Hi! Is that the final date? Will arrive in Puerto Princesa on May 31. May I still join the group?

Tried to search your name in messenger, it matches a lot of profiles po. I’m interested to join the group but I’ll arrive in Puerto Princesa on May 31.

fidel was our boat operator/guide and i highly recommend him.

I went down to Rio Tuba in Mid February and was told it is not safe for foreign guests (non-filipino) to go there at the time being. I had a very nice lady at the docks of Rio Tuba calling around to numerous numbers I gave her and some family that she has down there. The same response from all, they strongly discouraged foreign tourists from visiting at the moment. They are still operating boats (quite expesive – 6-7,000php for 3 day trips) for Filipinos though.

If boat operators that make money from tourism are encouraging foreign guests to stay away, it’s probably for a reason. To the foreign tourists, is it really worth putting yourself in danger or the other people with you as well?

Thanks for the update Bryan! Did they say why? (My friends had just gotten back from Balabac including Onuk this month, but then they are locals.)

I guess that the terrorists in the area will target foreign travelers specifically in the area. Just in the past year there was a foreign couple killed on a boat down there, along with a Filipino woman and her child according to what I was told. I’m quite sure they wouldn’t just be making that up. They didn’t say I couldn’t go, but just strongly advised against it.

As a foreign tourist, of course you shouldn’t put yourself in a potentially dangerous situation along with putting any Filipinos you would be with in dangers as well.

Hopefully one day things will get better down there!

I see. Thanks for this info! We were not aware of the news abt the foreign couple. 🙂 When we went tho I did mention (in another post) that I do not think Balabac is stable yet, hopefully it will be in the coming years.

Not a problem. And like you say, hopefully things get better in the future there! I would love to see it for myself one day.

di kami natuloy ng husband ko last year sa balabac due to time and money constraints but hopefully next month at nakabooked na kami. kaso ang mahal ng singil sa min nun nakausap ko. 3nights tig P10k each kami, island hopping lang un and food. kung 7k each kaya pa sa budge. but 10k each mukhang hindi na. sana meron pa akong mahanap na mas cheaper sa 10k at makasabay na mga grp. we will arrive puerto on march 17 and 26 is our flight back.

Hi Judy, sinong kausap niyo? Try contacting Kuya Boboy and Ate Lorna. My friends are going there also this summer, maayos naman yung quote sa kanila.

Hi po. I am planning to visit Balabac at baka aku lang mag-isa. I only want to visit Candaraman at Punta Sebaring. Side trip lang sa Candaraman and I’ll spend 2 nights sa Punta Sebaring. Do you have any idea how much it would cost me for the boat?

I don’t know since that’s a custom trip. Why don’t you ask the boatmen/tour guides for a quote? 🙂

sir anung date ang punta nyo ng balabac? kc kmi ng sister q..since dalawa lng kmi we’re planning to visit punta sebaring and another island malapit lng sa sebaring kc btin un araw namin? bka pd pd tyo tatlo kung same date lng un pgbisita mo para mas cheaper.. thanks

kelan kayo nasa puerto? baka pwede tayo mag joint forces para mas makatipid. 2 lang kami ng husband ko. dating namin ng puerto march 17. 25 ang balik. plan namin mag pa rio tuba the same day kung maabutan namin ang last trip. then pa bangkalan on the 18th kung saan kami ppick upin ni fidel (contact boatman ko) let me know guys. thanks

nku mam mgkaiba tyo ng date march 10-13 po kmi ng sister q.. sayang namn..

hi anne papunta pa labg ako ng balabac dito pa lanv ako rio tuba pier

hello anne…kmsta ang trip nyo last 10-13?

mjo disappointed kmi d sun package n nkuha nmin..then n delayed p un flight namin ng mahigit 2hrs..mjo maalon kaya ilang islands lng un npuntahn nmin.. pero no doubt mgganda tlga isla sa balabac worth to visit kahit malayo..

Pwede ba ako humingi ng itinerary mo? Thanks 🙂

mam may npg inquira’an aq 7500 per person lng kay kap andong ito un number nya 09204214583..

ser anung date ng balabac visits mo?

ALL the island-hopping BOAT TRIPS are CANCELED on Balabac! You can go there with public boat but NOONE will TAKE you any of the tourist DESTINATIONS since there are many discussions between island, boat owners, coast guards and tourism office of Balabac.

We ve just came back from Balabac.

This blog shoud be updated, before anyone effort to go there.

Hi Gabor, sorry to hear abt your experience and thanks for the heads up! Yes we’ve heard about on-going talks particularly about standardization of rates. Hope they come to an agreement soon. 🙂 If you have more updates, feel free to comment or message us so we can add it to the post.

Hala!!!panu kya yn?!!

It seems that island hopping tours are temporarily suspended. But my friends who’d been there this week were able to go island hopping. Guess there’s nothing else to do but wait until matters get resolved. 🙂

si fidel bago kong kausap…he gave me a much lower price.

Thanks for the tips! I’m going to Balabac in April! Did you have problems sa source ng drinking water in Balabac? Kasi parang hindi practical magdala ng maraming bottled water. hehe Thank you!

No. You can easily buy bottled water or ask for a glass in the eateries. 🙂

I wanted to let you know that Ate Bebeth, (Balabac assistant tourism officer: 0949 424 1605) no longer works with the tourism office.

Would anyone by chance know a different contact number to the tourism office there?

Hi Bryan, thanks for the update! I’ll go ask my friends if they have a contact number. 🙂 Please do inform us here if you get the new contact person also.

You can see my new response I made about my trip. Right now, I think it’s okay for Filipino tourists to visit but it was highly recommended that, I as a foreign tourist, didn’t visit due to concerns for the safety of foreign tourists in the area currently.

Hi, I can’t seem to find the contact number of White Heaven Lodge, do you have it? Thanks!

We didn’t get the number. It’s just walking distance from where the van will drop you off.

Hello Ms. Kath! If Sebaring Island lang pupuntahan namin then balikan lang agad, sa tingin mo po how much will it cost per head? Thank you.

Hi Cinderella, not sure… Better ask your boat operator. 🙂

i see…i’ll bring my 7yr old girl and little bit worried when it comes to camping for 2-3 nights(as offered by tour companies) your blog/article really help me to decide to do balabac on our own instead of getting a tour … thank you so much

Jasmin joy Villalobos Taneza

Hello Ms Kath.. fellow traveler here, enlighten me please, you don’t need to camp on those islands you mentioned,? on your day 2-4 you stay in balabac and do the boating every day from thereon? salamat

Yep. At the end of the day, we’d go back to the inn in mainland Balabac. I think it’s possible to camp in some of the islands but ask your boatmen to be sure.

Hi! My friend and I are planning to visit Balabac this March. More specifically, Onok Island is on the top of our list. However we were astounded to find out that they now charge 5000 pesos per head (entrance fee and meals included) just to visit this island. And that’s on top of the usual rate of 2000 per person per day Island hopping (3 islands per day). We tried to call diff boat operators and all have the same rates. Umm do you think it’s worth the price to still visit onok?

Waaa? Who are you referring to, exactly? Last time we were there, there was no entrance fee to Onuk Island. It’s a private property of the mayor and he used to just let visitors see the island. Did the mayor impose the new rate?

I just got an update and included it in the guide. Yes, the rate is now P5000 per head for a day tour in Onuk Island including lunch. Really pricey. I think I’ll skip on that. It’s not a 5-star hotel. But still depends on you.

Thanks for this detailed post. I just bookmarked this page for our future trip.

Quick question though: how the network coverage? Is there at least 3G?

Yep, but signal was intermittent so most of the time we just didn’t bother with our phones. Not sure how it is now. 🙂

hub and i are planning (well, im the one planning actually.he simply tags along 🙂 ) to go to balabac before end of january(20-24) from our northern palawan trip. considering the cost to get there and get back to puerto, kailangang magtipid…i really hope we may makasabay kami para mas mraming maka share sa island hopping. thank you so much for all the infos. they are a huge help.

If you’re on a budget I suggest just limiting your island hopping to the nearby islands – Onuk, Candaraman and Siksikan. It will cost you about P1500. Punta Sebaring is 3 hours away from mainland Balabac, for an additional P500.

Hi Zaida! I’m traveling solo to Balabac on Nov.20-24. You might want to come with me. Send me an email at [email protected] 🙂

We will be in Palawan again in April and we have already been to El Nido & Coron , we want do this area now. We’re foreigners so hope its not difficult to organise by ourselves

Hi Ana. We’ll probably go back next year, too. I hope you’d drop by again after your visit and let us know how it went. We get a lot of messages from foreign tourists asking the same thing and it’ll be a big help. 🙂

kapampangantraveller

Thank you for sharing your Balabac experience. Would explore on November and cross fingers for good weather.

Cheers for more travels!

I will travel novermeber 18-28th to Palawan. I plan to fly into Manila and then el Nido as the flight is one hour ish. Stay there for 3-4 days to island hop. From there fly back to Manila and then fly into Puerto princess and see if for a day if that. Then head to a tour to hit balabac island and island hope there to onuk and candarman. Is this enough time is there anything you can suggest. I may do a 5 day info you provided. Do I need the mayors signature to visit onuk? Thanks!

Hi Zaida, you can ask your boatmen to assist you in asking the mayor’s permission personally or you can send an email at least a month before. Contact the tourism office for more info on this.

Wow… Way back I was only allowed to stay in Rio Tuba. If I was just stubborn enough I would’ve discovered the place as well! Nice post and beautiful pics, Kat and Hali 😀

Anong meron? Security issues?

Hi! May I know if the rates of the tour are per boat or per person? There might be just two of us so I wanna know if it is still affordable.

Hi She. The rate is per boat. If you read the costing I clearly stated that with a rate of P8000, 2 people will have to spend P4000 each. 🙂 I hope that clears up any confusion.

hi kat.. is it possible to tour Balabac with my 3yrs old? and balak din kc namin mag el nido eh doable ba ang balabac and el nido for 8days?

Hi, I guess it’s okay if you’ll only island hop in nearby islands like Onuk and Candaraman and if you’ll manage to get a boat with proper roofing. Some islands are too distant kase. For example, from mainland it will take you 3 hours to reach Balabac island where the lighthouse is located.

Balabac and El Nido is doable in 8 days, but take note that El Nido and Balabac are on opposite sides of Palawan. It’s separated by at least 10 hours of land travel and another 4 hours of sea travel.

Backpacking Geek

Wow! Thanks for dropping by my space recently!

It was really hard to look for good references for a DIY sa Balabac! Kinilig ako because yours gave a great deal of info! Now I can start planning… 🙂 thanks again!

Oh, thanks for dropping by as well and you’re welcome!

I’d love to leave a comment in your site but there isn’t a comment option when opened in the WP reader. 🙂

Yeah… you will need to open the page to leave a comment. I’ll need to look for the settings in WP Reader to allow comments.

Thank you So much for this! I just want to ask kung dun na kayo sa balabac kumuha ng island hopping tour? Me and my boyfriend are planning to go there this August 2016 and we would like to backpack lang 🙂 Joiners are welcome!

Hi Isla! I already contacted Kuya Boboy weeks before our actual travel date. It’s okay if you’ll go there without an arranged tour yet. Just go directly to the tourism office for assistance. I have friends who went in Balabac without contacts and they encountered no problem naman.

hi Isla! we’re also planning to go to balabac on aug. 27-29. have you already booked a package tour? pls reply 🙂

hi isla! we wanna join for aug 27-29, 2016. do you still need joiners? we are a couple and we’re also in need of at least 3 joiners 🙂 pls pm me if interested. thanks! 🙂

Thanks for dropping by, Milet! Yep, better wait until election season is over. 🙂 I hope the newly elected officials do something to boost the tourism in Balabac as well as guarantee safety for tourists.

Roxane de Jesus

Hi, my cousin and I are planning to go on an April 16-17, 2016 trip to Balabac. Anyone interested to do a DIY with us to lessen the cost of fixed expenses like island hopping? The more, the lesser.

Roselle C Toledo

I’ve been wanting to go to Palawan. I find Boracay too crowded. I was not aware about Balabac. It’s so prinstine! Thanks for this article I also had an idea how much to save up.

Joy Perito-Priginal

The place really looks beautiful!Hubby and I will be travelling to palawan this october. I hope we can include it in our itinerary. Thank you for breaking down the expenses it will be really helpful as we always go on a budgeted trip!

Milton Coyne

I really want to visit the unspoiled beauty of Palawan .. this place has always been on my bucket list and your pictures make me so eager to push my plans this year!

Thanks for sharing your unbiased review on this place! I have been hearing my grandpa mention this place (Balabac) for so long since I was a kid. I didn’t know how beautiful this place was! I am going to Palawan this summer vacation and I am definitely am wanting to include this as my side trip with my family!

You’re welcome namesake! 🙂 I’ll consider other places though if you’re with a kid, since the boat rides during island hopping take hours and the motorized boats often used don’t have any overhead tarp to protect the boat passengers from the sun.

Aika Loraine

Last time, Air Asia had again their Piso Sale, I actually want to book for Palawan however, the fairs are too expensive so I decided to book for Kalibo instead. Reading this made me again think of booking a Palawan flight. I like it that you provided itinerary for this. I am a DIY traveller also. Uhum. Thanks to this blog entry as it will be a great addition to the very little material in the Internet about Balabac as you have mentioned.

Hi! I’m so glad i found this post. My friend and i are going to balabac in june so i need all the help i can get to prepare our itinerary. 🙂 Btw, you mentioned you werent able to go to Onuk? May i know why? Were you able to get the permit to visit the island? This is our main target location kasi so i would like to know if we need to get the permit before arrival sa palawan para sure and kung sino best contact person. Thanks in advance 🙂

Hi Awesome! You have to personally ask current Mayor Shuaib because it is his private property. So it depends if papayag siya. There are times he even lets visitors use his boat to go to Onuk Island.

Meron rin kasing security issue ngayon since election season (e.g., risk of kidnappings in the area etc.). This is what we were told by the asst. tourism officer.

When you arrive in Balabac, go to municipal hall to log your names in the local tourism register and also ask if Mayor is there. Seek assistance from your boatman, alam na nila yun. 🙂

Kat! You’ve captured our trip right on point. And I am also glad to see our beach conversation here. hehe

I think it also calls for everyone disposing their garbage properly – travellers and locals alike. Some of the trash seemed to have washed off from the shore and in the end it all comes back to us. Garbage is a big issue I think not only for Balabac but for other places as well. Though I am also hopeful that pretty soon the local tourism office will push for efforts to preserve the beaches since they are really that stunning. 🙂

’till our next adventure together! 🙂

Kelangan talaga more awareness and discipline regarding garbage disposal. Palaging yan ang problema sa local tourism e.

Yep, yep. See you soon! 😀

Hi Kath.. Good to see that you’re writing “again..” Hehe.. Refer ako dito sakaling mapadpad ako ng Palawan ha.. ; )

Hi Ranran, thank you! (Napaisip ako if I know you in person, if yes then PM mo ko here haha.)

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• Philippines
• The Ultimate Guide To Palawan...

The Ultimate Travel Guide To Palawan, Philippines

If you’re constantly on the look out for new travel destinations, then you’ve surely heard of Palawan. One of over 7,000 islands comprising the Philippine archipelago, many will describe this place as paradise. This comprehensive Culture Trip guide will show you every what, where, and how you need to know to make the most of your Palawan trip.

How to get there.

Although the airport of Puerto Princesa (Palawan’s capital) is now considered an international airport, currently only very few flights fly in from abroad. So the best way to reach Palawan would still be to first fly into a bigger airport in the Philippines – most likely through Metro Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport – and then take a domestic flight to Palawan.

Most domestic flights are affordable, however prices do hike up significantly during peak seasons such as Holy Week, Christmas, and over the summer. If your trip happens to fall on peak season, make sure to book your flight to Palawan as early as possible (it doesn’t help that Palawan is currently one of the top tourist destinations in the country).

What to pack

First, there’s the obvious: Pack light and cool clothes, swimwear, and sturdy flip-flops since most of your trip will probably be spent on the beach. Take a light sweater along for possible cool nights and sarongs that will come in handy for sunbathing and drying up. Sunscreen and insect repellent are a must, which you can also buy once you get to Puerto Princesa.

Another thing you’ll have to stock up on, at least before venturing out of Puerto Princesa, is cash. ATMs are harder to come by in the more rural municipalities of Palawan, and credit cards aren’t widely accepted either outside large establishments and resorts so always keep enough cash on hand.

For gadget junkies, a portable power bank might just be a lifesaver — especially if you decide to rough it out on the islands. Some towns and lower-end accommodations outside Puerto Princesa don’t have power all day, so if you want to be sure you’re gadgets are always charged up, take a portable charger along.

For the ladies, it’s vital to know that tampons are also quite difficult to come by in the Philippines and impossible in the more rural provinces. And a beach holiday is probably the worst time to have any crimson wave dilemmas. So make sure to scour through supermarket shelves in the big city for an emergency stash.

Where to go

Puerto Princesa

When visiting Palawan, many people fly into the capital, Puerto Princesa City (there are smaller airports in El Nido and Busuanga), and journey north toward El Nido by land. Two to three days should be ample to enjoy this little city. Get around the city proper via tricycle, a cheap and easy mode of local transport. Make it a point to visit the shops, the best place to do your shopping, be it for beach necessities you’ll be needing throughout your trip or for local souvenirs like pearls and handicrafts.

Perhaps the most famous tourist spot in the city (though about a half-hour drive from the city proper) is the Puerto Princesa Underground River in Sabang. It was declared one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature in 2012 and has been largely responsible for the surge in tourism since then. This, along with Sabang Beach, make for a good day’s worth of adventure.

Back in the city proper, treat yourself to delicious local cuisine at longtime favorites like Kalui and Kinabuch’s or sample local beers at the island’s only microbrewery, Palaweño Brewery . From the city, you can arrange private transport to your next Palawan destination, or rent a motorbike to take the more adventurous route, or take a bus.

Port Barton

Compared to the tourist hotspots of El Nido and Coron, Port Barton is still quite the hidden gem . If you’re not a fan of crowds, which have become difficult to avoid in Palawan’s more famous destinations, Port Barton might just be the place for you. Island-hop through beaches of solitude, snorkel above turtles, kayak to nearby islets you’ll have all to yourself — this serenity is Port Barton.

Famous El Nido — despite the lengths it takes to get here and the number of fellow travellers you might have to share it with, you’ll quickly be assured upon arrival that it’s all very much worth it. For affordable accommodations that have both the coziness of a boutique hotel and the open and social environment of a hostel, check out Spin Designer Hostel .

It’s easy to get around El Nido’s most famous spots since four tours (simply called Tours A, B, C, and D) are generally recognized among travel agencies, guides and boat men. El Nido’s top sights are distributed among these tours, of which tours A and C are most popular. Any adjustments to the tours can also be arranged with your guide. Towering limestone rock formations, pristine beaches, and crystalline blue waters — El Nido is, in every sense of the word, breathtaking .

The municipality of Coron on the island of Busuanga can be reached by either flying into the island’s airport or by ferry from the ports of Manila, Puerto Princesa, or El Nido. Coron, as is El Nido, is naturally stunning. Landscapes are adorned by distant mountains, karst limestone formations, and cerulean waters. It’s become most famous for Kayangan Lake, said to be the cleanest in the country, and its numerous reefs and WWII shipwrecks which make for astonishing dives. There are also enough dazzling white-sand beaches to pack an itinerary.

For a one-of-a-kind experience that makes the journey just as magical as the destination, traverse the seas between El Nido and Coron aboard a massive traditional sailboat with Tao Philippines . Here, travellers are given a chance to divert from the typical tourist path and bask in Palawan’s raw, natural beauty.

Finally, there are the Balabac group of islands in Southern Palawan. Made up of some 30 islands and islets, this area is home to the province’s untouched tropical gems. Because many of these islands are privately owned, prior arrangements are best off made with their owners or local guides. And because the area’s tourism industry is not all that developed yet, tourists might have a difficult time personally organizing their own trip. For a fuss-free trip, get in touch with a travel agency to arrange a tour.

Balabac is quite the distance to be travelled from Puerto Princesa, but its covert, unscathed charm is alluring to travellers partial to undiscovered destinations.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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• The Ultimate Palawan Beach Guide To Help You Plan Your Next Escape To Singapore

29 Nov 2021

Singapore is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations where there are a myriad of places to visit and lots of activities to do for the entire family. Palawan Beach is amongst the top places here to spend some fun-filled and happy times and make the most of your holidays. The beach is a swimmer’s paradise with gentle waves and soft sand. Apart from being a place where you can have the most relaxing time, this place also offers plenty of things to do for kids and adults alike. Whatever you may decide to do, you are guaranteed to have a wonderful time here, for sure.

Best Time To Visit Palawan Beach

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The weather in Singapore remains consistently the same throughout the year. You can plan a trip to Palawan Beach any time you want. Carry an umbrella with you as the area receives frequent rain falls around the year. The months of June, July and November, December are the peak tourist season because of school holidays. You can plan your trip accordingly to avoid the crowds.

You don’t have to pay any charges toward Palawan Beach entrance fee as it is free for all. Palawan Beach opening hours is between 9 AM to 12 PM.

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How To Reach Palawan Beach

Palawan Beach in Singapore is easily accessible by the convenient network of public transport in the city. You have to take the Sentosa Express from Vivocity Level 3 and get down at the beach station. There is a tram station right outside and you will have to take a tram from the blue line to reach Palawan. It takes around 25 minutes and you will spend around INR 250 per person for the journey.

The alternative option is to take a taxi and reach your destination in about 10 minutes. You will spend around INR 600 for the trip.

Things To Do On Palawan Beach

We have shortlisted some of the most popular Palawan Beach activities to do when you decide to spend a few days on this beautiful beach lined with lush shades of palm trees.

1. Palawan Pirate Ship

This is a play area for children aged between 3 to 10 years and the best part is that it is free for the guests. There are a variety of water rides here for the little ones to have a splash and a gala time with the whole family. The adults can have a relaxing time at the adjacent coffee shop while the kids have a fun time running around the slides, fountains and a pirate head throwing bucket full of waters down every few minutes. This place is especially good for families with young kids and toddlers as it has a nursing room, changing station for babies with cold and hot water facilities. If you want to celebrate a special day like birthdays, you can choose from the two types of packages available and have the most amazing celebrations. All in all, it’s a great place to have a marvelous time engaging all the age groups.

Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM

Must Read: 14 Ethereal Festivals In Singapore That Will Force You To Ditch Yours

2. Amphitheater at Palawan

Palawan amphitheater is another delightful place in the list of Palawan Beach activities where you can see some nice animal and bird shows. The shows are scheduled at regular intervals throughout the day so you will have something to enjoy irrespective of the time you visit. There are no admission charges payable. Interestingly, you will find a monkey with a red butt who climbs on the coconut trees and brings down some coconuts. There is also a colorful macaw who is excellent in mathematics and a python which can swallow a cow in one go. With four sessions in a day, you and the kids are bound to have some lovely time getting up, close and personal with these friendly birds and then some not so friendly ones too.

Timings: 2 PM – 5:30 PM

3. A walk down the Suspension Bridge

This can easily be termed as the highlight of Palawan Beach. The beach is connected to the extreme southern point of Asia by this suspension bridge where there are facilities to arrange some great party events or a memorable special occasion. There are numerous fun and team building activities taking place in which you can take part. The place is famous for the most exclusive and happening parties in the area. Even if you are interested in spending some serene time, then this Palawan Beach bridge offers the perfect backdrop. The bridge has two tall towers for getting those amazing views of the South China Sea and the entire area too. Enjoy the cool sea breeze and watch the huge ships and containers pass by; the place will leave you refreshed and rejuvenated like no other.

Suggested Read: 20 Romantic Places To Visit In Singapore For Your Honeymoon

4. Swimming and watersports

There are a number of water sports and outdoor activities lined up at the beach to give you that required dose of adrenaline rush. Try your hands at kayaking, paddleboard, banana boat, jetpack, and jet blade and many more to choose from. If you are not one of those thrill seekers, then just relax in the calm turquoise waters of the lagoon. The calm clear waters on the beach are just fabulous for swimming. The beach has unmatched safety features with the lifeguards continuously on patrol.

Places To Stay In Palawan Beach

There are a number of good staying options near Palawan Beach in Singapore. The most popular of them are listed below.

1. Siloso Beach Resort

This resort is located right across the beachfront and offers a splendid view of the South China Sea. A peaceful and rustic eco-friendly place where you will find an open-air dining area and a freshwater pool surrounded by lush canopies of trees. The pool is supposed to be the longest of its kind at 95 meters. There are a variety of rooms all equipped with different amenities to provide you with a comfortable stay.

Address: 51 Imbiah Walk, Sentosa, Singapore- 099538 Room rates: Starts from INR 13,337

Suggested Read: These Exhilarating Experiences On Sugi Island Will Make You Take A Detour From Singapore

2. Sofitel Singapore

A 5-star luxury resort and hotel which is located on the cliff right above the Tanjong Beach at Sentosa Islands in Singapore. A perfect place for an amazing stay with the beautiful natural surroundings, state of the art rooms, rejuvenating spa along with a dining area and conference room. They also provide complimentary transport services to some of the famous shopping malls located in the center of the city like VivoCity and Paragon. The rooms are equipped with all the facilities to ensure a great experience for visiting Palawan Beach Sentosa island, Singapore.

Address: 2 Bukit Manis Road, Sentosa, Singapore- 09981 Room rates: Starts from INR 11,500

Suggested Read: Blast From The Past: 11 Spectacular Historical Places In Singapore

Restaurants On Palawan Beach

Palawan Beach has a number of shops, restaurants and cafes lined up which makes up for an interesting combination. The most famous places in Palawan Beach for food are as under.

1. Bora Bora Beach Bar

This is by far the coolest place to hang out with your friends and family on Palawan Beach. The location is excellent with the spectacular beach view forming a perfect backdrop. Drive away the day’s tiredness sipping to a fantastic tall drink of margaritas or diariquies enjoying the cool breeze and listening to the Brazilian lounge music. The place offers some tasty and innovating snacks options too and their shrimp burger served with coleslaw and fries is something not to be missed.

Address: 82, Lighthouse Beach Walk, Palawan, Singapore Timings: 11 AM – 9 PM

Suggested Read: 16 Best Adventurous Activities in Singapore To Make You Scream In Thrill

2. Club Islander

This is another option to have some tasty food at Palawan Beach in Singapore. Located right on the beach, this is an ideal place to spend some happy and quality times with the entire family. They serve an array of drinks and thirst quenchers along with some mouth-watering snacks and items for a casual dining experience. Overall a place with lovely ambiance and value for food and service too when it comes to visiting Palawan Beach on Sentosa island Singapore.

Address: 80, Palawan Beach Walk, Sentosa, Singapore- 099338 Timings: 11 AM – 8 PM; 10:30 AM – 9 PM (weekends)

Further Read: New Year Celebration In Singapore: Head Down To Lion City To Welcome The Next Year With A Bang

Palawan Beach in Singapore is the ultimate destination for some joyous and fun times with the loved ones. Whether you are just lazing around swimming in the gentle waters, enjoy the various activities to do on the beach, spending some quiet moments on the famous suspension bridge or chilling out with a drink at one of the beach shacks, the place is the quintessential getaway for everyone in the family. Book next holiday to Singapore with TravelTriangle today and have some unforgettable moments on your trip.

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Palawan Beach

Very nice beach! The sand is so fine and white. Very clean too! Perfect place to sun tan, picnic and swim

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Palawan Beach Highlights: Must-See Features and Attractions

Recommendations near palawan beach, palawan beach reviews: insider insights and visitor experiences.

visited the beach on a weekday morning to find fences, scanning point and rope squares for each group of no more than 5 (some weren’t...). beach was clean, water a decent opaque green (normal for Singapore), and the lifeguards were keeping an eye on things as we heard them yelling at people to not climb on the rocks 100m away. Nice view of the offshore ships in Singapore anchorage (>30 in sight), but no oil and debris, and by coincidence a lot of Air Force planes and helicopters flying up and down too.

Palawan Beach, fantastic place to unwind, plenty of personal space unlike European Beaches - bonus the day we went it was 32 degrees, loved it the sunset was spectacular. Very beautiful scenery, a good IG spot in the bridge, and a high observation tower for a comolete view of the beach. There are free shuttles around the beach area, so I don't have to walk too much.

Palawan Beach 🏝️ is such a romantic beach and location. The hanging bridge, white sandy beaches and multi-storied huts.

good place to chill on the weekends! very beautiful sunset and pretty beach

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10 Most Beautiful Beaches in the Philippines Worth a Flight

• The Philippines is an enchanting natural destination with over 7,000 islands and one of the longest coastlines in the world, making it a beach lover's paradise.
• Bitaog Beach in Mindanao features soft white sands, crystal clear waters, and stunning limestone formations, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
• Alona Beach in Bohol's Panglao island is known for its powdery-white sands, clear blue waters, and palm trees, offering visitors a beautiful and adventurous experience with activities like snorkeling and scuba diving.

The Philippines is an enchanting natural destination and an archipelago comprising over 7,000 islands. Also, the nation is among the countries with the longest coastlines in the world , which stretches a whooping 36,289 kilometers (22,549 miles). Hence, it is a beach lover's paradise with thousands of beautiful beaches waiting to be explored.

These beaches are not just beautiful with their sands and turquoise waters. They are backed by lush vegetation, and some with towering mountains to complement their beauty. For those looking for a spot offering some of the most unforgettable tropical vacations , here are the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines worth a flight.

Related: 8 Things To Do In Manila: Complete Guide To The Capital Of The Philippines

Bitaog Beach

Bitaog Beach is one of the most scenic beaches on the Dinagat Islands of Mindanao. This beach features soft white sands and crystal clear aquamarine waters that combine to create a picture-perfect scenery.

The beach also includes beautiful coconut trees on its shores, massive and numerous limestone formations, and calcareous peaks. These elements make the beach irresistible and an idyllic destination for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Boat rides are also available on the water if snorkeling is too adventurous.

• Location: Dinagat Islands, The Philippines

Hidden Beach

The Hidden Beach in Palawan may be hidden as its name suggests, but once found, visitors will struggle to leave. This breathtaking beach is nestled between two imposing rock formations that hide it from public view.

In addition, the Rocky Mountains encircle the beach, making it a secluded, calm beach destination for travelers seeking an escape from the crowd. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque atmosphere, swim in the waters, snorkel to spot marine life, or do all three for a wholesome experience with nature here.

• Location: El Nido, Palawan

Gota Beach is located within the Camaroan National Park, where it radiates natural glory and charm. Behind the sandy beach are a series of heavily forested hills, with their greenery complementing the blue waters and white sands of the beach. This incredibly gorgeous sight is, yet, not all that the beach has to offer.

While here, visitors can hike trails around the dense jungle, snorkel in the waters to capture marine life sights, and have fun with various water-based adventures. However, visitors should be prepared to enjoy the beach with other revelers as the area is quite popular and populated.

• Location: Camaroan National Park, Camarines Sur, Philippines

At approximately 14 kilometers, the Long Beach in Palawan truly deserves its name. It is the longest white sand beach in the Philippines , cutting across four towns, which include Alimanguan, San Isidro, New Agutaya, and Poblacion.

Along the stretch of this picturesque beach are coconut trees and beach cafés framing its background, including boat harbors for tours. Visitors have enormous natural beauty to explore and enjoy here while walking on the sand or sunbathing. Other activities that create irretrievable experiences at the beach include kayaking, snorkeling, sunbathing, and swimming.

• Location: San Vicente, Palawan

Check out some of the longest beaches in the world , where travelers will feel lost on the shore.

Gumasa Beach

Gumasa Beach is one of the priceless coastline jewels of Mindanao, Philippines. Visitors will be stunned by the approximately 6-mile stretch of this gorgeous shoreline, overlapped by greenish-blue waters, with flourishing greenery on one end.

This beautiful landscape and waterbody set the stage for outdoor activities such as sunbathing, picnics, kayaking, swimming, jet-skiing, and snorkeling. Interestingly, this beach is less crowded, allowing visitors to enjoy its beauty and unforgettable experiences without the crowd. Alternatively, there's the Sarangani Beach Tour on offer to get the most out of a vacation here.

• Location: Glan, Sarangani, Mindanao

Related: 10 Stunning Islands In The Philippines That Are A Must-Visit

Alona Beach

Alona Beach in Bohol's Panglao island is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world , worth a visit. The beach comprises soft, powdery-white, gorgeous sands, crystal clear blue waters, and evergreen palms on its shores to shade visitors from the scorching sun. Its striking beauty feels unreal and can be a single experience for visitors.

However, there are adventurous things to do here and enjoy the beach beyond its charm. Visitors can go snorkeling and scuba diving on its elegant and clear waters, while open-air massages on the beach can add to the fun.

• Location: Panglao island, Bohol, the Philippines

Nacpan-Calitang Beach

Nacpan-Calitang combines two beaches - Nacpan and Calitang - only split by a small piece of land filled with white sand. While the Nacpan beach is long and stretches further as far as the eyes can see, its twin - the Calitang - is shorter and curves southwards.

However, their geography has nothing to do with their beauty as both are incredibly stunning, with flourishing jungles overlapping them. Both beaches are not far from El Nido, offering the perfect beach getaway for a laid-back visitor. From swimming to kayaking and paddleboarding, these twin beaches are spectacular aquatic environments.

• Location: El Nido, Palwan

Banul Beach

Banul Beach in the Northwestern Peninsula from Coron Island is one of the country's most picturesque beaches. Here, beautiful white sands are complemented by azure waters lapping on them. However, the view gets better with imposing rock cliffs on the sandy background, thriving with lush vegetation.

Visitors and beach revelers can stroll around the shores, soak in the sun, spot marine life, and play on the sand. For more immersive experiences, the beach is an ideal destination for snorkeling and scuba diving to see some shipwrecks. It is also less crowded for those who love to enjoy the outdoors alone.

• Location: Coron, Palawan

Related: 18 Most Budget-Friendly Places To Visit In The Philippines

White Beach

The White Beach in Boracay, as its name suggests, combines sharp, gorgeous white sands and clear turquoise waters to create a postcard picture. In addition, the beach features an array of evergreen palm trees on its shores, complementing its existing beauty.

These unique combinations make the beach an outdoor hot spot for visitors and locals in Boracay. It is also one of the best beaches in the Philippines and among the country's top tourist attractions for kayaking, parasailing, scuba diving, swimming, and other water sports activities.

• Location: Boracay, Philippines

Located on Santa Cruz Island, this magnificent beach was named due to its remarkable and gorgeous pink sands. Access to the beach is via Zamboanga City, and once here, beauty and magic are the best words to describe the view. The pink sands are due to the mixture of white sands and dissolved red organ pipe corals, which may not be visible until one looks closely.

It is an idyllic spot to sunbathe, capture the scenic beauty, and embark on water-based adventures and tours. Visitors looking for a unique and enchanting beach destination to explore can call this place home.

• Location: Santa Cruz Island, the Philippines

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Best places to visit in may 2024.

With its pleasantly warm weather and thinned crowds, May is the perfect time to take a trip before the expensive summer season. Considering sights, weather, traveler sentiment and annual events (among other factors), U.S. News rounded up the best places to visit in May. Whether you're looking for an outdoor adventure in a national park, a quick Memorial Day getaway or a leisurely beach vacation , you can't go wrong with these destinations. Vote for your favorite locales below to help determine next year's list.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Laguna beach, st. vincent & the grenadines, victoria & vancouver island, yellowstone national park.

When May comes around in Bryce Canyon National Park, the snow is nearly gone, which means the park's main road and popular trails are likely to be open. Highs are typically in the 60s during the day, too – ideal conditions for hiking and biking this Utah park's paths. Visitor numbers start to ramp up this month, but it's still early enough in the season that you're unlikely to have to jostle for a view at the popular Bryce Point, which overlooks Bryce Amphitheater, a landscape of otherworldly rock spires (called hoodoos).

This Portuguese island chain in the Atlantic Ocean offers a little bit of everything for active travelers, from geoparks and waterfall hikes to paragliding. Though the weather here is always a bit unpredictable, the chances of wind and rain are lower in May. The water temperature also begins to warm up for must-do activities like snorkeling or swimming with dolphins, and with fewer swells than the winter months, beginner surfers will feel more comfortable trying to hang ten. As an added bonus, the biggest festival in the Azores – the Feasts of Santo Cristo dos Milagres – typically occurs in May.

Travelers looking for a vacation filled with unique and heart-pumping activities should set their sights on Cappadocia. This mountainous region in central Turkey is home to a UNESCO-listed national park, centuries-old underground cities, ancient cave dwellings, magnificent rock formations and more. Plus, thanks to average temperatures in the 60s and 70s in May, activities like soaring high above the Göreme Valley on a hot air balloon tour and driving a four-wheel-drive vehicle past fairy chimneys couldn't be more pleasant.

As one of the warmest and driest times of year in Palawan, May welcomes travelers with open arms. Take advantage of the minimal rainfall by experiencing all of the outdoor activities and attractions that this Philippine island has to offer –spoiler alert, there are a lot. Spend time relaxing on Palawan's white sand beaches, island-hopping or even swimming with gentle whale sharks. Water sports are popular in this destination as well, from diving Tubbataha Reef to kayaking El Nido's Big Lagoon.  

Visiting Granada, Spain, in May is a no-brainer. Average temperatures in the mid-70s, blooming flower displays (at Generalife Gardens) and a full roster of events make this Andalusian city a must-visit in the spring. Día de la Cruz and Feria del Corpus Christi, two of the city's most popular celebrations, are both held in May, and travelers won't want to miss seeing Granada come alive with music, flamenco dancers and more. Save time during your trip for a guided tour of the Alhambra and strolling through the Albaicín neighborhood.

May falls within this Peruvian city's winter season, though you probably wouldn't notice thanks to its consistently mild temperatures (highs hover in the 60s). This month rarely sees rain showers, and you'll encounter fewer tourists at archaeological wonders like La Catedral – which sits in the restaurant- and coffee shop-filled Plaza de Armas – and Machu Picchu – a bucket list destination and UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 50 miles northwest of Cusco. If you're up for a challenge, hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This difficult trek through the area's towering mountains takes about four days to complete.

With 33 beaches, this eastern Caribbean island is a sun worshipper's dream, and May temperatures in the upper 70s and 80s are perfect for basking on its white sands . Spend warm days venturing to offshore cays, exploring fishing villages and watching yacht races during the Anguilla Regatta, typically held every May. Since this is the start of the island's rainy season, the weather can be wetter and more humid than the winter months, but visitors will be rewarded with cheaper accommodations. 

May is a great time for a trip to this seaside Spanish city before the heat and humidity become unbearable. Can't-miss architectural marvels to check out include Antoni Gaudí's whimsical Park Güell and the Gothic-style Sagrada Família. Budget time for visiting some of Barcelona's highly regarded museums, such as the Picasso Museum, and relax at Barceloneta beach before stopping at a nearby seafood restaurant for some of the best paella in the city. What's more, the city plays host to a number of events come May, including film and music festivals

Craggy coastline views, a world-famous aquarium and a superb farm-to-table dining scene draw tourists of all types to Monterey, California. Though temperatures here remain in the 60s for most of the year, rainfall drops significantly in May. Popular festivals also make this a great time of the year to visit. Come early in the month for the Pacific Grove Good Old Days Street Festival, which showcases local artisans and craft vendors, plus a variety of food booths. And near the end of the month, the three-day California Roots Music & Arts Festival celebrates reggae artists.

Visit Laguna Beach for a perfect sunny-and-70, laid-back beach vacation. May is part of this Southern California town's spring shoulder season, so you'll find fewer people on popular stretches of sand like Main Beach and Crescent Bay Beach. Plus, the quieter month is ideal for relaxation-focused activities, such as outdoor yoga and hiking. When travelers need a break from reconnecting with themselves or nature, they can check out Laguna Beach's thriving art scene, which includes hundreds of galleries, studios and public works of art.

Bright turquoise water, gorgeous white sand and lush green vegetation await vacationers in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Composed of 32 islands and cays, this Caribbean archipelago is perfect for a tropical getaway. May falls between the country's peak winter season and its hurricane-prone low season, making it an ideal time for scuba diving and snorkeling in the Tobago Cays Marine Park, swimming and soaking up some rays at Canouan's beaches and hiking to beautiful waterfalls like Dark View Falls. Travelers will also want to check out the country's 20-acre Botanical Gardens, the oldest available in the Western Hemisphere.

Victoria, British Columbia's capital city, sits on the southern portion of Vancouver Island. Not only does this Canadian destination boast comfortable highs in the low 60s in May, it is just a short ferry ride from Seattle (less than three hours), making it perfect for a quick weekend getaway . Spend your visit strolling through the 55-acre Butchart Gardens, which are bursting with colorful tulips and cherry blossoms come May, then get out on the water on a whale watching tour. Before heading home, don't forget to shop for souvenirs along Government Street.

Considered the birthplace of democracy and drama, Athens boasts a historical legacy that is hard to top. The main reason to visit is to see the ancient city's impressive ruins, which you'll find at the Acropolis and Ancient Agora. For an additional look at Athens' past, check out the incredible Greek artifacts on display at the National Archaeological Museum and the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture. May vacations are especially enjoyable thanks to comfortable daytime temps hovering in the mid-70s.

By late May, most of Yellowstone's trails and must-see attractions are open, welcoming eager nature enthusiasts seeking a breath of fresh air. The average 50-degree temperatures provide a brisk but comfortable atmosphere for a hike on one of the Old Faithful area's trails or a kayaking excursion on Yellowstone Lake. For a glimpse of wildlife, head to Lamar Valley to view wolf pups emerging from their dens. Keep in mind that if you visit during Memorial Day weekend, you'll likely run into crowds.

With warm weather year-round (average temperatures sit in the 80s), there's never a bad time to visit Singapore. But in May, this Asian city-state on the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula welcomes events such as the Singapore Cocktail Festival, the Singapore International Festival of Arts and the Singapore HeritageFest. When you're not enjoying your time at one of Singapore's cultural events, check out top attractions like Gardens by the Bay, a futuristic nature park that is home to the Supertree Observatory and the Cloud Forest.  

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Kruger National Park

Mont-Tremblant

Miami Beach

Newport, RI

Mexico City

Indianapolis

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Meet The Billionaire Betting Big On An Idyllic Island Retreat In The Philippines

Inside andrew tan's $720 million eco-tourism project in the country’s pristine beachside paradise., by jonathan burgos , forbes staff.

T he pitch is for tropical paradise: turquoise waters that lap a pristine shoreline fringed by lush, mist-streaked greenery. Philippine property giant Megaworld extolls on its Facebook page the virtues of Palawan island, the largest of a 1,780-island group by the same name that hangs to the left of the island nation in the Pacific. Here, Megaworld is pursuing its most complex project yet, a resort and residential estate that will be the island’s biggest real estate development to date.

On 462 hectares in San Vicente, a quiet, relatively untouched corner of Palawan’s northern coast, known for its rich biodiversity, virgin forests, steep karst cliffs and the longest white sand beach in the Philippines, Megaworld has a 15-year plan to raise a township from among the coconut trees—an ecofriendly addition, it says, to its hospitality, office, retail and residential portfolio that spans the country. When finished, Paragua Coastown will include two 10-story hotels, a residential condominium, villas, a hospital, a school, and wellness-related centers.

Megaworld, owned by billionaire Andrew Tan ’s spirits-to-property conglomerate Alliance Global Group, is pouring over 40 billion pesos ($720 million) into the venture—a tenth of what it plans to spend on building townships across the Philippines in the next five years. The company is banking on getting in on the ground floor as the island remakes itself into one of the country’s top tourist destinations. Some 1.5 million people, of which about 650,000 were overseas travelers, visited the island in 2023, nearly twice as many as the previous year, according to government figures, as tourists return to the Philippines post-Covid. (Boracay, the archipelago’s most popular resort island, had over 2 million visitors last year.) “We intend to showcase the best sustainable tourism and green living concepts by developing it into an ecotourism township,” Kevin Tan, Andrew’s eldest son and Megaworld’s executive vice president and chief strategy officer, says by email.

Andrew Tan (left), chairman of spirits-to-property conglomerate Alliance Global and his eldest son, Kevin Tan, CEO of Alliance Global.

San Vicente is seen as the next frontier in the island’s commercial boom, catching up to Palawan’s other island centers where tourism is flourishing, including its capital, Puerto Princesa City (home to the 8.2-kilometer underground river, a Unesco World Heritage site), and El Nido, a municipality comprised of small islands at Palawan’s northern tip that has in recent years become a playground for backpackers and jetsetters alike. Ayala Land, controlled by billionaire Jaime Zobel de Ayala and his family, has already made inroads as El Nido’s biggest developer, owning the 325-hectare Lio tourism estate along with four other resorts in the town’s smaller islands.

Megaworld broke ground last year on its 306-room Savoy Hotel Palawan and the nearby 189-unit Oceanfront Premier Residences tower, which are both slated to be completed in 2028. Construction of the 313-room Paragua Sands Hotel, which will open in 2029, has yet to start.

Most rooms will have water views, and the hiking trails of the Pagdanan mountain range, home to threatened wildlife such as the Philippine cockatoo, gray imperial pigeon and blue-naped parrot, are a short drive away.

Megaworld is building Paragua Coastown (left) along the coconut tree-lined (right) coastline of San Vicente, Palawan island in the Philippines.

“More than just sustainable tourism, our vision for Paragua Coastown is to be able to provide an opportunity to those who want to live the island life within a lush and sustainable landscape,” Tan says. To that end, he says Megaworld will incorporate solar and other renewable energy sources into its building design. There will be a waste-to-energy plant to supply electricity to the township as part of a new waste-management system and sewage-treatment center.

About 40% of Paragua Coastown’s land area has been earmarked for open (albeit landscaped) spaces, while a mangrove forest reserve in its boundaries will be left untouched. Megaworld also plans to plant thousands of trees on 100 hectares deforested by commercial logging, once a mainstay of the local economy, and upgrade the mostly dirt tracks used by San Vicente's 30,000 residents to a network of roads in and around the property.

Ana Margarita Lustre-Malijan, vice president at local hotelier and construction firmArlustre Group, believes such developments will be a huge boon for Palawan, bringing jobs and income to the island where about 15% of the population falls below the poverty line. It could also be the tipping point to improve accessibility to the area. There’s an airport in San Vicente, but Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific, two of the nation’s main airlines, don’t fly there. Getting to San Vicente means a 90-minute flight from Manila or Cebu to Puerto Princesa and a bumpy four-hour car ride across rugged terrain. Cebu Pacific CEO Michael Szucs tells Forbes Asia that the airline will consider flying to San Vicente once the Megaworld hotels are built.

Tourists visiting the Puerto Princesa underground river (top left), a Unesco World Heritage site, while a wild pig roams Coconut Beach in San Vicente. View of San Vicente's famed stretch of white-sand beach (right).

Besides attracting homegrown developers, Palawan has become a stopping point for international hospitality brands. “Palawan stands out as an attractive destination, blending cultural richness with natural landscapes,” Raj Menon, Marriott’s president for Asia Pacific excluding China, says by email. The U.S. group will add over 70 rooms this year to its recently opened 168-room Four Points by Sheraton on Sabang Beach, near Puerto Princesa’s underground river, to meet demand. American hotel chains Best Western and Wyndham Hotels’ Microtel have also established a presence on the island.

Megaworld has begun marketing the Paragua Coastown residential units, which will range from 32-square-meter studios to 106-square-meter two-bedroom suites, and expects them to generate some 2.3 billion pesos in sales. Doubling down on Palawan, Megaworld announced in December it would spend another 7 billion pesos to develop a mixed-use complex on a 6-hectare oceanfront site in Puerto Princesa. Named Baytown Palawan, the commercial, hotel and residential project is expected to take five years to complete. “Palawan has always been a hotspot for local and international tourists,” Tan says.

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International visitors to the Philippines have gradually returned but remain below pre-pandemic levels.

Palawan isn’t the Tans’ only tourism play. They are building resorts, retail space and convention facilities across the archipelago, including tourist hotspots Boracay, Cebu and Davao. Megaworld’s hospitality operations accounted for over 5% of the company’s 2023 revenue of 69.7 billion pesos, and the company expects the business will make up at least 10% of revenue by 2028.

Andrew Tan launched Megaworld in the late 1980s, pioneering the living concept of a city within a city in the Philippines. It now counts 24 townships (with an additional seven under construction) nationwide, part of his sprawling business empire under Alliance Global comprising a controlling interest in Emperador, owner of the Dalmore whisky and Fundador brandy brands, and a stake in the Philippine franchisee of McDonalds. Tan ranked No. 11 on the Philippines’ 50 Richest 2023 list with $2.4 billion net worth.

“Expanding our townships all over the Philippines will sustain our growth as a company and allow us to also diversify our offering in the real estate industry,” says son Kevin, who is also vice chairman and CEO of Alliance Global. “Through these developments, we can make a significant impact across economic sectors.”

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