THE top island in the world--a place that renowned French explorer Jacques Costeau called “the most beautiful place” he had ever explored. Palawan fuses the natural and the sublime with its coral-fringed dreamscapes, its majestic karst limestone cliffs, its wind-swept shorelines, its pristine sandbars, and more well-kept secrets reserved only for the most intrepid travelers. Whether you’re looking to get away in style or have an adventure of a lifetime, Palawan will have gems in store for you.

Welcome to Palawan

Intro to Palawan

Palawan: The Best in Island Luxury for Life’s Defining Moments

Discover Palawan’s life-changing islands

Palawan

Among many other things, Palawan is a haven for divers and snorkelers, many of whom have Coron in their list of go-to destinations. While Coron shares Palawan’s overall natural beauty with its majestic limestone cliffs and crystal clear waters, it also offers unique experiences with its historical shipwrecks, colorful coral reefs, and diverse collection of sea creatures that check every box in a diver’s bucket list. 

![](https://www.datocms-assets.com/31284/1600670938-coron-shipwreck-diving-jun-v-lao.jpg)

**What to expect:**

 

Coron has multiple diving spots around the archipelago, each offering unique experiences for both beginners and experienced divers. There are various diving tours offered around the island, and some private resorts and establishments also offer their own diving packages.

Much of Coron’s popularity among divers can be attributed to its shipwrecks, which come from Japanese vessels used in World War II. Casual divers can appreciate these massive structures from afar, while those with more experience can explore the ins and outs of each boat, finding historical artifacts as well as groups of marine life that have turned these warships into homes.

For those who want more colorful dives, Coron is also home to many expansive coral reefs and jaw-dropping underwater structures. Perhaps the most popular dive spot of them all is Kayangan Lake, where snorkelers and divers alike can view and explore its underwater cliffs (and appreciate their above-ground counterparts in the process!).

 

**Where to experience it**

 

The quickest way to get to Coron is through a direct flight to Busuanga Airport, which should take less than an hour if you’re coming from Manila. From the airport, you’ll need to travel via land for around 30-45 minutes to reach the Coron town proper.

Diving and Snorkeling in Coron

Once you arrive at Puerto Princesa airport, most tourists either go north to the idyllic beaches of El Nido or the unparalleled diving spots of Coron, or stay in the capital city to see the world-renowned Underground River. However, that only encompasses a small portion of Palawan, which is the largest province in the entire country. If you head south from Puerto Princesa, you’ll find one of the most important historical sites in the country: the Tabon Caves. 

Known as the “Cradle of Philippine Civilization,” the Tabon Caves contain valuable artifacts that depict the lives of the earliest humans to set foot in Palawan, which includes burial jars, wooden tools, and inscriptions on the cave walls. Travel back in time and unearth the history of the Tabon Man in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

 

**What to expect**

 

Tour packages that center on the Tabon Caves will come with a professional tour guide knowledgeable about the history discovered within the site. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural and archaeological history as you enter one of many cave chambers that have been opened to the public.

Your tour guide will also explain the historical significance of the caves as you venture through it, discussing everything that has been unearthed so far–and what else there is to find. According to anthropologists, there are over 200 caves across the entire cave complex, and only a few dozen of them have been explored so far.

It wouldn’t be a Palawan destination if it didn’t have its fair share of natural beauty, and the Tabon Caves are no exception. Enjoy picturesque rock formations in the cave’s ceilings and walls, and catch a glimpse of wild bats, birds, and other animals that call the caves their home. 

 

**Where to experience it**

 

The Tabon Caves are located near the Quezon municipality in southern Palawan. From Puerto Princesa City, a trip to the Tabon Caves will take around 3-4 hours by land, followed by a boat ride of around 30-45 minutes to the island where the caves are located.

Unearth the History of the Tabon Caves

When you think of island hopping in Palawan, the first thing that comes to mind is the dozens of idyllic islands around El Nido. But for those who want to experience Palawan’s island paradise while not straying too far away from the capital city, Puerto Princesa has its own collection of tranquil islands in the nearby Honda Bay. 

Situated only a few kilometers away from Puerto Princesa, Honda Bay captures the natural beauty of Palawan with its scenic white-sand beaches, clear crystal-blue waters, and large varieties of marine life. Numerous islands dot the bay, though a large majority of tours visit three of them, as most of the others are privately owned.

 

**What to expect**

 

Tour packages exploring Honda Bay mostly go through three islands: Starfish Island, Luli Island, and Cowrie Island. The tour usually starts early in the morning and finishes right before sunset. 

As the name suggests, Starfish Island is home to different species of starfish, which you can already see along the coastline. Divers can also go for a short snorkeling session around the island to get a closer look at its beautiful corals and marine life.

Luli Island is famous for its sandbars that disappear and reappear during high tide and low tide respectively. Enjoy a nice swim in the island’s cool beaches, or lounge around in one of its cottages. 

Cowrie Island caps off the tour with its picturesque views and scenic beaches. It’s named after a type of sea snail that you can find around the island.

 

**Where to experience it**

 

Puerto Princesa City is an hour-and-a-half flight away from Manila. Unlike the other famous tourist spots in Palawan, Honda Bay is only a 30-minute land trip away from the city proper, making it a great option for tourists who are only staying in Puerto Princesa for a short time.

Explore Honda Bay

If you’re looking for a tropical paradise escape, El Nido delivers on that front in spades. Spanning 45 islands and islets, El Nido offers pristine white-sand beaches and picturesque clear-blue waters for those looking to spend calm and beautiful days, and it also features colorful coral reefs and intricate limestone cliffs for those looking for more adventurous activities.

The best way to experience El Nido’s beauty is to book an island hopping tour, which takes you around the El Nido archipelago and lets you experience each island’s natural beauty. 

![](https://www.datocms-assets.com/31284/1600774940-palawan-blackisland-3-erwintlim.jpg)

 

**What to expect**

 

There are four distinct all-day island hopping tours you can choose from, each of which take you to different sets of islands and islets around El Nido. Each tour offers their own unique set of activities and experiences, but all of them serve as incredible demonstrations of what makes El Nido a must-see tourist destination.

Tour A features some of the most popular tourist destinations in the archipelago, most notably the picturesque Big Lagoon. With its crystal clear water enveloped by majestic limestone cliffs, Big Lagoon offers a swimming and boating experience like no other. The tour also includes a visit to Secret Lagoon and Seven Commando Beach.

For tourists who want to experience more of El Nido’s unique offerings, Tour B provides those and much more. It includes a stop at the so-called Snake Island–don’t worry, the “snake” refers to the island’s sandbar that looks like it’s slithering through the water–and Cudugnon Cave, which is rich in both geological beauty and cultural history. 

Beachlovers and snorkelers should enjoy Tour C the most. It takes you to multiple secret beaches, including one conveniently named Secret Beach, and it also offers great snorkeling spots in the famous Helicopter Island, named after its uncanny shape resembling the vehicle.

Finally, Tour D is perfect for tourists who want to discover El Nido’s hidden gems. Visitors are treated to the towering limestone formations and clear waters of Cadlao Lagoon and the very aptly named Paradise Beach. 

 

**Where to experience it**

 

Tourists who flew in to Palawan from Puerto Princesa Airport will need to take a van to get to El Nido, which will take around 5-6 hours. There are also charter flights that fly directly to El Nido if you’re coming from Manila, Cebu, Puerto Princesa and other Philippine destinations.

Island Hopping around El Nido

Palawan’s paradise extends far beyond its pristine beaches and clear waters, as even its rivers and caves have come together to create world-class experiences. Case in point: the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, or what’s commonly known as the Underground River, which is included in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites as well as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. 

The Underground River features the best Palawan has to offer in terms of geology, biodiversity, and natural beauty. The cave boasts picturesque stalactite and stalagmite formations carved by nature over millennia, and you’ll also find several bats, birds, and reptiles both in and around the park. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore a cave and cruise through a river at the same time!

 

**What to expect**

 

The entire tour should only take around 45 minutes, but the experience you’ll get in those few minutes will be unparalleled. From jaw-dropping rock formations to exclusive peeks into the park’s fauna, you’ll find out exactly why the Underground River is deemed a “Wonder of Nature.”

Before you take the Underground River cruise, though, make sure you dress in comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting wet, and bring a bag where you can place your gadgets and other valuables. The river flows straight into the West Philippine Sea, so you don’t want to drop anything!

Once you get to the site, you’ll be instructed to board a small boat led by a tour guide with a small light. You’ll be given life vests and protective helmets as well. Photography is prohibited, and you will be asked to refrain from talking and making loud noises so that you don’t disturb the bats, birds, and other animals that call the Underground River their home. 

 

**Where to experience it**

 

Despite the name, the Puerto Princesa Underground River is around two hours away from the capital city of Puerto Princesa, as it is located in the small town of Sabang. Any tour you book that involves an Underground River cruise will include a van transporting you to and from the city proper and the site.

Underground River

The “heaven on Earth” that is El Nido has more to offer beyond its idyllic islands, world-class beaches, and crystal clear waters. For those who prefer to experience its terrestrial beauty, El Nido offers several hiking and nature trails for both casual and professional hikers alike. Enjoy a different side of El Nido while continuing to bask in its unparalleled natural wonder.

 

**What to expect**

 

The most popular trail in the town is Taraw Cliff, the highest peak of El Nido. Guided tours offer either the complete hiking experience for adventurous tourists or a more scenic route in the El Nido Canopy Walk. Awaiting both types of climbers is a gorgeous view of the entire bay, with its jaw-dropping limestone cliffs and clear-blue waters.

Beyond Taraw Cliff, there are several other trails that dot El Nido, each with their own rewards at the end. Various waterfalls surrounding El Nido such as Nagkalit-kalit and Bulalacao require long hikes to reach, and you will be treated to picturesque views and even natural pools where you can swim your worries away. At the end of your hike to the Ille Caves you’ll find a piece of ancient Palawan history, the site of several artifact discoveries and even evidence of tigers roaming the country millions of years ago!

Wherever your next hike may be, you’ll be sure to find another piece of what makes El Nido heaven on Earth.

![](https://www.datocms-assets.com/31284/1600775362-jamesrelfdyer-el-nido-palawan-1.jpg)

 

**Where to experience it**

 

Tourists who flew in to Palawan from Puerto Princesa Airport will need to take a van to get to El Nido, which will take around 5-6 hours. There are also charter flights that fly directly to El Nido if you’re coming from Manila, Cebu, Puerto Princesa and other Philippine destinations.

Hiking and Trekking in El Nido

**[View the latest Safety Advisory for Palawan HERE.](https://dot-jade.vercel.app/articles/palawan-safety-advisory)**

 

Imagine diving in the middle of the Sulu sea to find a massive school of mamsa or jacks, whale sharks, manta rays, barracudas, sharks, and more--all alongside massive reefs that resembles a rich, underwater mountain! This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the Philippines’ best diving location and one of the best in the world thanks to its beauty and biodiversity.

**What to expect when you're there:**
Reserved for more experienced divers, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is only open to the public during the dry months, normally from March to June. As it is in the middle of the Sulu Sea--and with its sandbars being off-limits!--the only way to travel and stay in Tubbataha Reefs is via liveaboard or a boat with all the amenities you would need to spend a few nights.

Most trips take about 5 days and can be booked in any number of safe, accredited dive operators from Puerto Princesa City. Make sure to follow all the guidelines and packing lists provided by dive operators to best prepare for this remarkable dive experience!

Make sure to include Malaya and Delsan Wreck, Black Rock, and Shark Airport to your itinerary!

**How to get there:**
The only way to the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is via a liveaboard and dive tour, usually taking off from Puerto Princesa City. Make sure to book your dive trip to one of the most beautiful dive spots in the world with reputable dive operators in Palawan and follow their safety regulations to make the most of your trip and to protect the marvelous Tubbataha Reef.

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park

**[View the latest Safety Advisory for Palawan HERE.](https://dot-jade.vercel.app/articles/palawan-safety-advisory)**

 

Discover the longest stretch of wondrous white sand in the Philippines in San Vicente, Palawan, the newest travel spot in one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Found in between Puerto Princesa City and El Nido, this lesser-known beach destination is getting rave reviews from travelers wanting to get away from any form of hustle or bustle!

**What to expect when you're there:**
At San Vicente, Palawan, you can truly escape from the crowd and chill on the beach or dive into the clear, calm waters full of wondrous marine life. Make sure to take your snorkeling gear--or book a dive!--in the sleepy town of Port Barton. Whether you’re a beginner or a long-time diver, San Vicente will have a dive spot that will leave you in awe of nature’s underwater spectacles!

**How to get there:**
There are flights from Manila or from Clark to San Vicente.

You can travel via scheduled van or bus rides from Puerto Princesa to San Vicente Proper or even straight to Port Barton. There are also a number of van operators plying the route between El Nido and San Vicente.

San Vicente and Port Barton

**[View the latest Safety Advisory for Palawan HERE.](https://dot-jade.vercel.app/articles/palawan-safety-advisory)**

 

El Nido, which is spanish for ‘The Nest’, was named so by the past conquistadores because of the many birds nests lining its majestic limestone cliffs. Today, tucked away in the northern tip of Palawan, El Nido continues to be a home to Asian swiflet’s nests, but has also transformed into a hub for travelers in search for the best, most beautiful beaches in the world. With 45 pristine islands and islets just waiting to be discovered, you’re sure to find a perfect spot to nestle in the sand as you marvel at the clear, turquoise waters of this paradise on earth.

**What to expect when you're there:**
Since entering Conde Naste Traveler’s list of The Best Beaches in the World, El Nido has developed the area to cater to tourists and explorers. So you can expect the main town to have the facilities and amenities of a regular island destination. The magic, though, lies in its quiet islands and hidden lagoons so make sure to book boat-hopping trips--and maybe even a trek to caves and waterfalls--to make the most of your trip to El Nido!

**How to get there:**
There are flights from Manila to El Nido.

From Puerto Princesa City, Palawan’s capital, you can get to El Nido in 5-8 hours by land, depending on your preferred transportation option. Van and bus operators run at regular schedules with this route. Van and car rentals are also available.

From Coron, you need to travel via sea. You can take a small wooden ferry, which takes about 8 hours, or the faster, air-conditioned ferry, which will only take about 5 hours. There are also options to rent a boat or book a special tour that takes you island hopping from Coron to El Nido, which comes highly recommended for travelers looking to experience the authentic island life!

El Nido

**[View the latest Safety Advisory for Palawan HERE.](https://dot-jade.vercel.app/articles/palawan-safety-advisory)**

 

North of El Nido, we find the charming Coron for travelers that prefer a relaxed, small-town vibe. Disconnected from the main island of Palawan, Coron managed to keep its natural wonders secret from the world much longer than its larger, more popular sibling, El Nido. But little by little, more and more travelers like you are discovering its crystalline lakes, enticing lagoons, and clear, calm, enchanting dive spots that make for an unforgettable travel experience!

**What to expect when you're there:**
A group of islands found north of Palawan’s main island, Coron has managed to keep its small-town charm while cheerfully catering to the growing number of travelers excited to explore what Coron has to offer. Proud of its calmer and more tranquil vibe as compared to El Nido and Puerto Princesa City, Coron offers 50 island choices for you to relax in and devour nature’s splendor. Expect Palawan’s signature limestone cliffs and clear, calm seas, and stretches of white sand; but also the cleanest lake in Asia, hidden lagoons, and some of the best, most impressive wreck diving spots!

**How to get there:**
There are flights from Manila or from Puerto Princesa to Coron.

As Coron is a group of islands, any land travel from the main island of Palawan will have to end in El Nido, where you can take a ferry to Coron.

There are small, wooden ferries that take about 8 hours or the faster, air-conditioned ferries, which will only take about 5 hours. There are also options to rent a boat or book a special tour that takes you island hopping from El Nido to Coron, which comes highly recommended for travelers looking to experience the authentic island life!

Coron

View Latest Advisory

Safety comes first, wherever you go. Check this section for the latest Philippine health regulations and travel advisories.

IATF Standardized Travel Protocols for Land, Sea, and Air 

Palawan Travel Advisory

What Do the Community Quarantines Mean?

Starting June 5 until June 20, El Nido will not accept inbound tourists except for those in point-to-point travel bubbles originating from inside and outside of Palawan.

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