Palawan
Beach-loving families and couples who want boats, snorkelling and easy island days
Palawan at a glance
Palawan is the Philippines at its most scenic: clear water, karst cliffs and boat days that end with a beach barbecue. El Nido and Coron anchor the north, while the south offers an underground river and slower coastlines.
The week ahead
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Where to base yourself
- El Nido town and Bacuit BayGateway to the lagoon tours with restaurants along the beach road. The most popular base for a first visit.
- CoronWrecks, hot springs and karst lakes on the northern tip. Good for snorkelling and a different set of boat trips.
- Puerto Princesa and the southThe underground river, mangrove kayaks and a calmer city. Choose it for a quieter, more local pace.
A sample 3-day rhythm
- Day 1Arrive, walk the beach road and take a short sunset boat to the nearest islands.
- Day 2Full-day island hopping: lagoons, snorkelling stops and lunch on a sandbar.
- Day 3Underground river tour or a Coron wreck day, keeping the evening free for seafood.
Want more? Use the planner to stretch this into a full trip.
Tips before you go
- Use reef-safe sunscreen — much of the marine area is protected.
- Bring cash outside El Nido and Coron; ATMs run out quickly.
- Start island tours early to beat the wind and the crowds.
- Pack a dry bag for phones and cameras on boat days.
Common questions
- Which base should we choose?
- El Nido suits first-timers who want scenery and restaurants; Coron is better for diving; Puerto Princesa is the calmest and easiest to reach.
- Is Palawan good with children?
- Yes — boat trips suit kids who are comfortable in the water, but keep to daylight crossings and bring shade.
- How do we get around?
- Tricycles locally, vans between towns and ferries or short flights for longer hops.
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