Palawan, a jewel in the crown of the Philippines, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life. This island province, with its diverse offerings, caters to every traveler’s desire, from adventure seekers to those seeking tranquil escapes. Choosing the best spots to explore in Palawan can be overwhelming, given its abundance of natural wonders. This comprehensive guide will unveil ten of the most captivating tourist destinations in Palawan, ensuring an unforgettable journey through this tropical paradise.
1. El Nido
El Nido, a haven for beach lovers and adventurers, boasts a collection of stunning limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons, and hidden coves. Its pristine beaches, fringed by swaying palm trees, offer a picture-perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Island Hopping Adventures
El Nido is synonymous with island hopping, an experience that unveils the archipelago’s hidden gems. Embark on a boat tour to explore the Bacuit Archipelago, a labyrinth of over 45 islands. Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Big Lagoon, marvel at the towering limestone formations of Small Lagoon, and snorkel amidst vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
Kayangan Lake: A Natural Wonder
Kayangan Lake, one of El Nido’s most iconic destinations, is renowned for its breathtaking beauty. Accessible by a short hike, this emerald-green lake is nestled amidst towering limestone cliffs, offering panoramic views. The lake’s pristine waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and simply soaking in the tranquility.
2. Coron
Coron, another island paradise in Palawan, captivates with its dramatic landscapes, WWII shipwrecks, and vibrant marine life. Its turquoise waters, dotted with limestone islands, create a scene straight out of a postcard.
Kayangan Lake: A Mirror Reflecting the Skies
Kayangan Lake, a hidden gem in Coron, is a testament to nature’s artistry. This pristine lake, nestled amidst towering limestone cliffs, boasts crystal-clear waters that reflect the azure sky. A short hike leads to a viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic vistas.
WWII Shipwrecks: A Glimpse into History
Coron is home to a collection of WWII shipwrecks, submerged treasures that offer a glimpse into the past. Dive or snorkel amidst these historic vessels, exploring their rusted hulls and imagining the stories they hold.
3. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a testament to the wonders of nature. This park encompasses a vast underground river system, flowing through a network of caves adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
Underground River: A Journey into the Depths
Embark on a boat tour through the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, a subterranean marvel. Glide through the darkness, marveling at the intricate formations of stalactites and stalagmites that illuminate with every flash of your camera.
Diverse Ecosystem: A Sanctuary for Wildlife
The park’s diverse ecosystem encompasses lush rainforests, mangrove forests, and pristine beaches. Spot a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, bats, and birds, as you explore this natural wonderland.
4. Honda Bay
Honda Bay, a sheltered bay with crystal-clear waters, is a haven for relaxation and water activities. Its pristine beaches, fringed by swaying palm trees, offer a picturesque setting for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. (See Also: Tourist Spots in Pampanga – Hidden Gems Awaits)
Island Hopping: Exploring the Hidden Gems
Embark on a boat tour to explore the islands of Honda Bay, each offering its own unique charm. Swim in the turquoise waters of Starfish Island, marvel at the towering limestone cliffs of Luli Island, and snorkel amidst vibrant coral reefs.
Snorkeling Paradise: A World of Underwater Wonders
Honda Bay is a snorkeling paradise, with crystal-clear waters revealing a vibrant underwater world. Spot colorful fish, sea turtles, and coral reefs as you explore the bay’s underwater treasures.
5. Port Barton
Port Barton, a laid-back coastal town, offers a glimpse into authentic Filipino life. Its pristine beaches, surrounded by lush forests, provide a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Island Hopping: Unveiling the Hidden Coastline
Port Barton is a gateway to a series of pristine islands, each offering its own unique charm. Embark on a boat tour to explore the islands, swimming in secluded coves, snorkeling amidst vibrant coral reefs, and soaking in the tranquility of this untouched coastline.
Relaxation and Rejuvenation: A Tranquil Escape
Port Barton is a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. Lounge on the pristine beaches, indulge in a massage, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this laid-back coastal town.
6. San Vicente
San Vicente, a coastal municipality in northern Palawan, boasts one of the longest white-sand beaches in the Philippines. Its pristine shores, fringed by swaying palm trees, offer a picture-perfect setting for relaxation and water activities.
Long Beach: A Stretch of Paradise
San Vicente is home to Long Beach, a 14-kilometer stretch of pristine white sand that rivals the most famous beaches in the world. Walk along the shore, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or simply soak up the sun on this idyllic stretch of paradise.
Hidden Coves: Exploring the Untouched Coastline
Beyond Long Beach, San Vicente offers a series of hidden coves and lagoons, waiting to be discovered. Explore these secluded spots, swim in their turquoise waters, and marvel at the untouched beauty of this coastal paradise.
7. Sabang
Sabang, a small coastal village, is the gateway to Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. Its laid-back atmosphere and proximity to this natural wonder make it a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Underground River: A Journey into the Depths
Sabang is the starting point for boat tours to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Embark on this unforgettable journey through the depths of the earth, marveling at the intricate formations of stalactites and stalagmites. (See Also: Tourist Spots in Capiz? Hidden Gems Await)
Hiking and Trekking: Exploring the Rainforest Trails
Beyond the underground river, Sabang offers opportunities for hiking and trekking through the surrounding rainforests. Explore the lush trails, spot wildlife, and enjoy the tranquility of this natural wonderland.
8. Roxas
Roxas, a coastal town in northern Palawan, is known for its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life. It’s a haven for snorkeling, diving, and island hopping.
Snorkeling and Diving: Exploring the Underwater World
Roxas boasts crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful fish, coral reefs, and marine life. Snorkel or dive amidst these underwater wonders, exploring the vibrant ecosystem of this coastal paradise.
Island Hopping: Unveiling the Hidden Gems
Roxas is a gateway to a series of pristine islands, each offering its own unique charm. Embark on a boat tour to explore these hidden gems, swimming in secluded coves, snorkeling amidst vibrant coral reefs, and soaking in the tranquility of this untouched coastline.
9. Busuanga
Busuanga, an island known for its rugged beauty and diverse marine life, offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. Its pristine beaches, hidden coves, and WWII shipwrecks make it a destination for thrill-seekers and history buffs alike.
WWII Shipwrecks: A Glimpse into History
Busuanga is home to a collection of WWII shipwrecks, submerged treasures that offer a glimpse into the past. Dive or snorkel amidst these historic vessels, exploring their rusted hulls and imagining the stories they hold.
Island Hopping: Exploring the Hidden Coastline
Busuanga is a haven for island hopping, with a series of pristine islands waiting to be discovered. Explore these hidden gems, swimming in secluded coves, snorkeling amidst vibrant coral reefs, and soaking in the tranquility of this untouched coastline.
10. Calamian Islands
The Calamian Islands, a group of islands off the coast of Palawan, offer a glimpse into untouched paradise. These islands, known for their pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, are a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Coron Island: A Jewel in the Calamian Archipelago
Coron Island, the largest island in the Calamian archipelago, is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, WWII shipwrecks, and vibrant marine life. Explore its hidden coves, dive amidst its historic vessels, and marvel at its breathtaking beauty. (See Also: Tourist Spots in London? Unforgettable Experiences)
Culion Island: A Historical and Natural Wonder
Culion Island, once a leper colony, is now a sanctuary for nature and history. Explore its lush forests, pristine beaches, and historical sites, learning about its unique past and appreciating its natural beauty.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Palawan?
The best time to visit Palawan is during the dry season, from November to May. During this time, the weather is sunny and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
What are some must-try dishes in Palawan?
Palawan offers a variety of delicious dishes, including Kinilaw (Filipino ceviche), Sinigang (sour soup), and Pancit (noodles). Don’t forget to try the fresh seafood, which is abundant in the region.
What is the currency used in Palawan?
The currency used in Palawan is the Philippine Peso (PHP).
What is the average cost of accommodation in Palawan?
Accommodation in Palawan varies depending on the location and type of lodging. You can find budget-friendly hostels starting from around $10 per night, while mid-range hotels range from $30 to $100 per night. Luxury resorts can cost upwards of $200 per night.
What are some safety tips for traveling to Palawan?
Palawan is generally a safe destination, but it’s always important to take precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and keep your valuables safe.
Palawan, with its diverse offerings, caters to every traveler’s desire, from adventure seekers to those seeking tranquil escapes. Whether you’re exploring the limestone cliffs of El Nido, marveling at the underground river of Puerto Princesa, or relaxing on the pristine beaches of San Vicente, Palawan promises an unforgettable journey through a tropical paradise.