Introduction: A Paradise Untouched

Nestled in the western Philippines, Palawan is an archipelagic province that stretches from Mindoro to Borneo.

Often called "The Last Frontier" of the Philippines, Palawan is a haven of pristine beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and diverse wildlife.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through the wonders of Palawan, from its UNESCO World Heritage sites to its hidden gems, and provide you with all the information you need to plan an unforgettable adventure in this tropical paradise.

Understanding Palawan: Geography and Climate

Location and Geography

Palawan is the largest province in the Philippines by total area of jurisdiction. Key geographic features include:

• Total Land Area: Approximately 14,649.73 square kilometers (5,656.28 sq mi)
• Number of Islands: 1,780 islands and islets
• Major Islands: Palawan Island, Busuanga Island, Culion Island, Balabac Island
• Terrain: Mountainous spine running the length of the main island, surrounded by coastal plains

Climate

Palawan has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons:

• Dry Season (November to May): Ideal for beach activities and island hopping
• Wet Season (June to October): Higher rainfall, but still with many sunny days
• Average Temperature: 27°C (81°F) throughout the year

Insider Tip: The shoulder months of October and May can offer a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

Planning Your Visit

Best Times to Visit

While Palawan can be visited year-round, certain periods are more favorable:

1. Peak Season (December to April):
   • Pros: Driest months, perfect for beach activities and island hopping
   • Cons: More crowded, higher prices
2. Shoulder Season (May and November):
   • Pros: Fewer tourists, lower prices, generally good weather
   • Cons: Occasional rain showers
3. Low Season (June to October):
   • Pros: Lowest prices, least crowded
   • Cons: Higher chance of rain, some tours may be cancelled due to weather

Insider Tip: If you're interested in diving, the best visibility is typically from March to May.

Getting There

Palawan is accessible by air and sea:

1. By Air:
   • Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) is the main gateway
   • Direct flights from Manila, Cebu, and other major Philippine cities
   • Airlines: Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, AirAsia
2. Alternative Airports:
   • Francisco B. Reyes Airport (USU) in Coron
   • San Vicente Airport (SWL) for northern Palawan
3. By Sea:
   • Ferries operate from Manila to Coron and Puerto Princesa
   • 2GO Travel offers regular ferry services

Insider Tip: Book flights in advance, especially during peak season, as they can fill up quickly and prices tend to rise.

Top Destinations in Palawan

El Nido

Known for its stunning limestone cliffs and crystal-clear lagoons, El Nido is a must-visit destination in Palawan.

• Key Attractions:
  • Island Hopping Tours (A, B, C, D) exploring various islands and lagoons
  • Secret Beach and Hidden Beach
  • Nacpan Beach - a 4-kilometer stretch of pristine sand
• Activities: Kayaking, snorkeling, diving, beach hopping
• How to Get There: Fly to El Nido Airport or take a 5-6 hour van ride from Puerto Princesa

Insider Tip: Book a combination of Tour A and Tour C for the best lagoons and beaches El Nido has to offer.

Coron

Famous for its world-class wreck diving sites and picturesque lakes, Coron is a paradise for underwater enthusiasts.

• Key Attractions:
  • Kayangan Lake - often called the cleanest lake in Asia
  • Twin Lagoon - where saltwater and freshwater meet
  • Shipwreck diving sites from World War II
• Activities: Diving, island hopping, hot springs bathing
• How to Get There: Fly directly to Francisco B. Reyes Airport in Coron

Insider Tip: Even if you're not a diver, you can snorkel above some of the shipwrecks in shallower waters.

Puerto Princesa

The capital city of Palawan, Puerto Princesa is known for its cleanliness and eco-tourism initiatives.

• Key Attractions:
  • Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park - a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Honda Bay - for island hopping and snorkeling
  • Iwahig Firefly Watching
• Activities: Cave exploration, mangrove paddling, firefly watching
• How to Get There: Fly directly to Puerto Princesa International Airport

Insider Tip: Book your Underground River tour in advance, as permits are limited and can sell out quickly.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations

San Vicente

Home to the Long Beach, a 14-kilometer stretch of undeveloped white sand beach.

• Key Attractions: Long Beach, Irawan Beach, Port Barton
• Activities: Beach camping, island hopping, waterfall trekking
• How to Get There: Fly to San Vicente Airport or take a van from Puerto Princesa

Balabac

A group of islands at the southernmost tip of Palawan, known for pristine beaches and diverse marine life.

• Key Attractions: Onuk Island, Punta Sebaring, Candaraman Island
• Activities: Island hopping, snorkeling, interacting with native Molbog people
• How to Get There: Take a van from Puerto Princesa to Rio Tuba, then a boat to Balabac

Insider Tip: Balabac requires more planning and is less developed, but offers a truly off-the-beaten-path experience.

Accommodation Options

Palawan offers a range of accommodation to suit all budgets:

Luxury

• El Nido Resorts - eco-luxury resorts on private islands
• Amanpulo - exclusive private island resort

Mid-range

• Frangipani El Nido - beachfront cottages in El Nido
• Club Paradise Palawan - resort in Coron with house reef

Budget

• Spin Designer Hostel - stylish hostel in El Nido
• Dayunan El Nido - simple cottages on Corong Corong Beach

Local Cuisine and Dining

Palawan's cuisine is a mix of Filipino favorites and fresh seafood:

• Tamilok - woodworm delicacy
• Chao Long - Vietnamese-inspired noodle soup
• Fresh seafood - grilled or in sinigang (sour soup)

Recommended Restaurants:

• Ka Lui Restaurant in Puerto Princesa - for traditional Filipino cuisine
• Badjao Seafront Restaurant - for fresh seafood in a mangrove setting
• Art Cafe in El Nido - for international cuisine and vegetarian options

Practical Tips

• Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP). ATMs available in major towns, but bring cash for remote areas.
• Language: Filipino and English are widely spoken.
• Transportation: Tricycles for short distances, vans for inter-town travel, boats for island hopping.
• Internet: Available in most accommodations, but can be slow in remote areas.
• Safety: Palawan is generally safe, but take normal precautions as you would anywhere.

Environmental Considerations

Palawan's natural beauty is its greatest asset. Help preserve it by:

• Using reef-safe sunscreen
• Avoiding single-use plastics
• Respecting marine life and not touching corals while snorkeling or diving
• Supporting eco-friendly tours and accommodations

Conclusion

Palawan offers a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and warm Filipino hospitality. Whether you're exploring hidden lagoons, diving among WWII wrecks, or simply relaxing on pristine beaches, Palawan provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking a tropical paradise off the beaten path.

Join the Conversation

Have you visited Palawan? Planning a trip? Share your experiences, tips, or questions in our Southeast Asian adventures forum. Your insights could be invaluable to fellow travelers!

Don't forget to share your Palawan photos on our community blog. Your snapshots might inspire someone else's journey to this Philippine paradise!

Remember, at Travel Trail, we believe that the best adventures are shared. So let's keep exploring, learning, and growing – together.