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Palawan
Luzon • Philippines

Palawan

The Last Ecological Frontier of the Philippines, renowned for karst limestone lagoons and subterranean marvels.

4.5/ 5.0

Based on 186 traveler reviews

7

Featured Hive Areas & Islands

12

Handpicked Attractions & Spots

2,500

Est. Daily Travel Budget

Gateway:Puerto Princesa (PPS), El Nido Lio (ENI), Coron Busuanga (USU)
Best Season:November to May
Top Festival:Baragatan Festival (June)
Signature Cultural Festival & Fiesta

Baragatan Festival (June)

Experience the vibrant traditions, colorful street parades, and infectious warmth of Palawan's most celebrated cultural event.

Featured Hive Areas

Destinations in Palawan (7)

El Nido

El Nido

4 curated spots

Explore the beauty of El Nido IslandFound in the province of Palawan, Philippines, El Nido is home to one of the most mesmerizing sceneries you can ever experience. With its lagoons filled with soothing clear waters, it is renowned for its white-sand beaches, beautiful coral reefs, and a plethora of activities on the island. If you have decided to travel to El Nido Island, you are bound to have a great time with eyes filled with the colors of the sceneries under the refreshing sun.

Kulambo Festival (El Nido)View Hive
Coron

Coron

5 curated spots

Experience the beauty of Coron IslandIslands are one of the most captivating tourist destinations. Coron Island, situated in northern Palawan in the Philippines, is certainly one of those. Its spectacular white beaches and clear blue waters are perfect for those looking for a retreat from the hectic city life. Along with smooth sands to walk on, it has seven beautiful lakes to rejoice in, the most famous being the Kayangan Lake. It doesn’t end here! Some coastal areas are even covered with mangrove forests which are sure to get your compliments. Along with the soothing views, there are a lot of activities in Coron Island you can do too.

Kasadyaan Festival (Coron)View Hive
Port Barton

Port Barton

4 curated spots

San Vicente Palawan is the official municipality or the first-class municipality in the province of Palawan, Philippines and is under the north-western side of the main island of Palawan.. The place itself is known as the “last biodiversity frontier”. Half of its biodiversity is conserved by its natural resources: the original forest cover and other greeneries from the forest.Port Barton is the best location for a getaway. Its alluring white sand and its clear seawater are the leading attraction in the city. Port Barton has freshwater to offer in their place and there are lots of beautiful spots in this place that could give you peace to relax!

Malagnang Mud FestivalView Hive
Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesa

8 curated spots

Puerto Princesa is one of the most visited landmarks in the Philippines, especially during the holidays. It is the capital of the island province of Palawan and is referred to as the City in a Forest. The city has been deemed as the cleanest and greenest in the Philippines.Its natural beauty hooks both local and foreign tourists. Puerto Princesa is an internationally known landmark and home of one of the New7Wonders of Nature. It is an exciting and beautiful destination that you will want to visit.

Subaraw Biodiversity FestivalView Hive
Puerto Princesa Underground River

Puerto Princesa Underground River

11 curated spots

In one of the islands in Puerto Princesa, Palawan lies the beautiful Underground River. The Puerto Princesa Underground River is 8.2 kilometers long, boasting impressive cave formations, limestone landscapes, mesmerizing old-growth forests, and pristine waters. However, only a portion of the river is allowed to be explored by tourists.This famous underground river is one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999. It is also the longest navigable underground river, making it a famous and sought-after tourist spot in the Philippines.

Subaraw Biodiversity & Karst FestivalView Hive
Balabac Island

Balabac Island

5 curated spots

When you hear about Palawan, the very first places that would probably slip your mind are Coron, Puerto Princesa, or El Nido. However, if you still want to lounge on pristine beaches, you don’t have to squeeze yourself into these overcrowded areas. There is a place in the south of Palawan that is not yet known to both local and international visitors, and this is the Balabac Islands.Balabac is composed of 31 islands that are yet to be inhabited. It is known for its rich marine life, pink sand beaches, endemic mouse-deer (yes, these exist!), and colored corals. This is yet to be discovered by travelers and why not enjoy this paradise all by yourself while you still can?

Balabac Molbog & Marine Fluvial FiestaView Hive
Nagtabon Beach

Nagtabon Beach

9 curated spots

When you visit Puerto Princesa City, it’s not a surprise to find the Underground River or Honday Bay Island as part of your itinerary. You may even throw the Crocodile Farm in there if you have the time. However, if you feel a little bit rebellious and want to stay away from the usuals, Nagtabon Beach is the way to go.Nagtabon Beach is a hidden gem, located in the northwestern part of Puerto Princesa City. It’s not yet commercialized compared with the other beaches in the area but it’s still a perfect treat for those who want to feel tranquility. Given its destination status, life in Nagtabon Beach is simple and quiet. Do not go here if you expect to have a tour guide or if you prefer moving and exploring.

Baragatan sa Palawan (Nagtabon Coastal)View Hive
Must-Visit Attractions

Tourist Spots & Activities (12)

Barracuda Lake
4.5
Spot

Barracuda Lake

Barracuda Lake is famous for its clear black deep water and for its salt and freshwater combination. This spot is popular with all tourists visiting Coron.

SpotDetails →
Twin Lagoon
4.5
Spot

Twin Lagoon

Twin Lagoon is a two-lagoon spot perfect for snorkeling separated by a narrow cliff. This is one of the most visited tourist spots in Coron.

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Maquinit Hot Springs
4.5
Spot

Maquinit Hot Springs

Soaking in Maquinit Springs is something you would want to experience as they are one of the few saltwater hot springs in the world.

SpotDetails →
Mount Tapyas
4.5
Spot

Mount Tapyas

Mount Tapyas is located 10 minutes walk from Coron town. To reach the view deck you need to endure 723 steps to get there, so make sure to bring a bottle of water with you.

SpotDetails →
Buglasan Festival
4.5
Festival

Buglasan Festival

The Buglasan Festival in Dumaguete City is more than just a celebration; it's a vibrant showcase of culture, tradition, and community spirit. Whether you're captivated by the colorful parades, tantalized by the delicious food, or inspired by the cultural performances, the Buglasan Festival offers an unforgettable experience that celebrates the rich tapestry of life in Negros Oriental.

FestivalDetails →
Big Lagoon
4.5
Spot

Big Lagoon

Big Lagoon is one of the most famous stops on Island Hopping. Aside from this famous stop, it is also known for the iconic turquoise water and limestone cliffs that everyone wants to take a picture with.

SpotDetails →
Seven Commandos Beach
4.5
Beach

Seven Commandos Beach

A popular attraction for island hopping tour, it has a white sand beach, towering limestone cliffs, and cottages for rent to relax.

BeachDetails →
Small Lagoon
4.5
Spot

Small Lagoon

Famous for turquoise green-blue water surrounded by limestone cliffs, where you can enjoy kayak or snorkeling.

SpotDetails →
Pahiyas Festival
4.5
Festival

Pahiyas Festival

Immerse yourself in the lively festivities of the Pahiyas Festival, an annual celebration that transforms the town into a colorful spectacle of local produce decorations. Marvel at the artistry, join street parades and revel in the cultural performances.

FestivalDetails →
Kayangan Lake
4.5
Spot

Kayangan Lake

Known as the cleanest lake in the Philippines, Kayangan lake is one of the most visited tourist spot destinations in Coron Palawan.

SpotDetails →
Secret Lagoon
4.5
Beach

Secret Lagoon

By the name of this beach, it isn't easy to access this beach which is surrounded by steep rock walls. But once inside you will see nature's unique beauty that truly of its wonders.

BeachDetails →
Little Santa Cruz Island
4.5
Spot

Little Santa Cruz Island

Little Santa Cruz Island is part of the Great Santa Cruz Island, renowned for its pink sand beach. While its larger counterpart often steals the spotlight, Little Santa Cruz Island has its own unique charm. With its untouched beauty and serene ambiance, it beckons travelers seeking a more secluded retreat. As you set foot on the shores of Little Santa Cruz Island, prepare to be embraced by the velvety softness of its powdery white sands, stretching endlessly before you. The gentle rhythm of turquoise waters caressing the shore creates an irresistible invitation, coaxing visitors to immerse themselves in its refreshing embrace or delve into thrilling water activities like snorkeling and swimming.

SpotDetails →
Travel Guides & Stories

Travel Guides & Blogs for Palawan

Traveler Handbook & Insights

About Palawan: Travel Planning & Highlights

Consistently voted among the world's most beautiful islands, Palawan is an ecological treasure trove featuring UNESCO World Heritage underground rivers, crystalline coral reefs, and dramatic limestone cliffs in El Nido, Coron, and Port Barton.

Island Group & Region
LuzonMIMAROPA (Region IV-B)
Primary Airport
Puerto Princesa (PPS), El Nido Lio (ENI), Coron Busuanga (USU)
Signature Food
Tamilok (Woodworm delicacy) & Fresh Grilled Seafood

Frequently Asked Questions about Palawan

A minimum of 7 to 10 days is recommended to comfortably explore Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron without rushing.