Palawan is a breathtaking province located in the western part of the Philippines, comprising a main island and several surrounding smaller islands. Known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic limestone cliffs, Palawan is a tropical paradise that is a must-visit destination if you’re visiting the Philippines with kids. In this travel guide, we will explore the best Palawan beaches, where to stay, where to eat, when to go, how long to stay, and a detailed family itinerary to help you plan your dream vacation.
El Nido or Coron?
El Nido and Coron are both popular destinations with some of the most stunning and best Palawan beaches and natural attractions, but they offer different experiences – El Nido is known for its limestone cliffs and lagoons, while Coron is famous for its shipwreck diving and island hopping tours.
Here are some pros and cons of each destination to help you decide which one to visit:
El Nido:
Pros:
- Spectacular scenery of towering limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons, and pristine beaches
- Great snorkeling and diving opportunities to see diverse marine life and coral reefs
- Wide range of accommodations and dining options to suit different budgets and preferences
- Access to popular attractions like the Big and Small Lagoons, Secret Beach, and Nacpan Beach
- Relaxed and laid-back atmosphere with a vibrant nightlife
Cons:
- Can be crowded and touristy during peak season, with limited privacy and secluded spots
- Some areas can be difficult to access or require a long boat ride
- Limited infrastructure and facilities compared to more developed destinations
- Can be affected by weather conditions, with some attractions closed during rainy season
Coron:
Pros:
- Fascinating history and culture, with World War II shipwrecks and indigenous communities to explore
- Stunning natural attractions, including lagoons, lakes, and white-sand beaches
- World-class diving and snorkeling opportunities, with clear waters and diverse marine life
- Range of accommodations and dining options to suit different budgets and preferences
- Access to popular attractions like Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, and Malcapuya Island
Cons:
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to El Nido
- Can be crowded and touristy during peak season, with limited privacy and secluded spots
- Some areas can be difficult to access or require a long boat ride
- Limited infrastructure and facilities compared to more developed destinations
- Can be affected by weather conditions, with some attractions closed during rainy season
Best Palawan Beaches
There are many reasons why the bestPalawanbeaches are world-renowned:
- Stunning scenery: Palawan is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The beaches are typically white-sanded and surrounded by lush greenery.
- Clear waters: The waters off Palawan are some of the clearest in the world. This makes it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
- Abundant marine life: Palawan is home to a wide variety of marine life, including coral reefs, fish, and turtles. This makes it a great destination for snorkeling and diving.
- Uncrowded beaches: Many of the best Palawan beaches are relatively uncrowded, even during peak season. This makes it easy to find a secluded spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.
- Friendly people: The people of Palawan are known for their warm hospitality. This makes it a great place to relax and unwind.
Here are some of the best Palawan beaches:
- Nacpan Beach: Nacpan Beach is a four-kilometer stretch of white-sand beach located in El Nido. It is known for its clear waters, calm waves, and stunning scenery. The beach is lined with coconut trees and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. There are also a few resorts and restaurants located near the beach.
- Las Cabanas Beach: Las Cabanas Beach is a popular beach located in El Nido. It is known for its white-sand beach, clear waters, and lively atmosphere. The beach is lined with bars, restaurants, and shops. There are also a few resorts located near the beach.
- Seven Commandos Beach: Seven Commandos Beach is a small, secluded beach located in El Nido. It is known for its white-sand beach, clear waters, and abundance of marine life. The beach is located in a small cove and is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
- Long Beach: Long Beach is a long, white-sand beach located in San Vicente. It is known for its clear waters, calm waves, and laid-back atmosphere. The beach is lined with coconut trees and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. There are also a few resorts and restaurants located near the beach.
- Banol Beach: Banol Beach is a small, secluded beach located in Coron. It is known for its white-sand beach, clear waters, and abundance of marine life. The beach is located in a small cove and is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
- Malcapuya Island: Malcapuya Island is a small island located in Coron. It is known for its white-sand beach, clear waters, and stunning scenery. The island is surrounded by coral reefs and is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Things to Do in Palawan
There are many things to do in the province aside from visiting the best Palawan beaches. Here are a few suggestions:
- Visit the Puerto Princesa Underground River. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the longest underground river in the world, and it’s a must-see for any visitor to Palawan. You can take a guided tour of the river, which is a truly amazing experience.
- Go island hopping in El Nido. El Nido is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, limestone cliffs, and turquoise waters. You can take a boat tour to explore the different islands in the area, or you can rent a kayak and explore on your own.
- Scuba dive or snorkel in Coron. Coron is another popular diving destination known for its clear waters and abundant marine life. You can find a variety of dive sites to suit all levels of experience, from beginner to advanced.
- Go hiking in the El Nido National Park. The El Nido National Park is home to a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. You can hike through rainforests, mangrove forests, and limestone cliffs, and you may even spot some wildlife along the way.
- Visit the Puerto Princesa City Zoo. The Puerto Princesa City Zoo is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, lions, elephants, and monkeys. You can learn about the animals and their habitats, and you can even feed some of them.
- Take a cooking class. Palawan is home to a variety of delicious dishes, and you can learn how to make them yourself by taking a cooking class. You’ll learn how to prepare traditional Filipino dishes, as well as dishes from other parts of the world.
- Visit the Palawan Butterfly Sanctuary. The Palawan Butterfly Sanctuary is home to a variety of butterflies, including some rare and endangered species. You can learn about the butterflies and their habitats, and you can even release some of them back into the wild.
- Go shopping for souvenirs. Palawan is home to a variety of shops where you can buy souvenirs to remember your trip. You can find everything from traditional Filipino handicrafts to clothes and jewelry.
- Relax on the beach. The best Palawan beaches are some of the most popular beaches in the world, and there’s nothing better than relaxing on the sand and soaking up the sun. You can also go swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
Where to Stay in Palawan
Palawan offers a variety of accommodations for families. Here are some family-friendly options:
- Astoria Palawan – Located in San Rafael, Astoria Palawan is a beachfront resort that boasts of luxurious amenities such as an infinity pool, spa, and private beach. The resort offers different room types that can accommodate families of different sizes. They also have a kids’ club that offers various activities for children.
- El Nido Resorts Miniloc Island – El Nido Resorts Miniloc Island is situated on a secluded cove in El Nido, Palawan. This eco-resort is surrounded by limestone cliffs and has a marine sanctuary that families can explore through snorkeling or diving. The resort offers various water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and island hopping. They also have a game room and a library that families can enjoy.
- Sheridan Beach Resort and Spa – Sheridan Beach Resort and Spa is located in Sabang, Puerto Princesa, and is a 15-minute drive from the Puerto Princesa Underground River. The resort has a large pool, a kids’ pool, and a beachfront that families can enjoy. They also have a playroom for children and offer outdoor activities such as island hopping and mangrove tours.
- Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort – Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort is located in Sabang, Puerto Princesa, and is a few minutes’ walk away from the Puerto Princesa Underground River. The resort offers various room types that can accommodate families, and they also have a kids’ playroom and an outdoor pool. The resort is also committed to environmental sustainability, and guests can participate in beach cleanups and tree-planting activities.
- Club Paradise Palawan – Club Paradise Palawan is located on Dimakya Island, Coron, and is a secluded resort that offers a private beach and various water activities such as kayaking and snorkeling. The resort has different room types that can accommodate families, and they also have a kids’ club that offers various activities for children.
Where to Eat in Palawan
Palawan offers various dining options that cater to different tastes and budgets. Here are some family-friendly restaurants:
- Ka Lui Restaurant – Ka Lui Restaurant is located in Puerto Princesa and is known for its seafood dishes. The restaurant has a unique ambiance, and guests are required to take off their shoes before entering. They offer various set menus that are perfect for families.
- La Terrasse – La Terrasse is located in El Nido and offers a variety of international and Filipino dishes. The restaurant has a relaxed ambiance and is perfect for families who want to enjoy a quiet dinner. They also have a kids’ menu that offers familiar dishes such as pasta and pizza.
- Kalui Garden Restaurant – Kalui Garden Restaurant is located in Puerto Princesa and is known for its seafood dishes and traditional Filipino cuisine. The restaurant has a garden setting and is perfect for families who want to enjoy a relaxed meal. They also offer vegetarian options.
- Art Cafe – Art Cafe is located in El Nido and offers a variety of dishes such as pizza, pasta, and burgers. The restaurant has a unique ambiance and is perfect for families who want to enjoy a casual meal. They also have a kids’ menu that offers familiar dishes such as chicken nuggets and fries.
- Badjao Seafront Restaurant – Badjao Seafront Restaurant is located in Puerto Princesa and is known for its seafood dishes. The restaurant has a view of the ocean and is perfect for families who want to enjoy a scenic meal. They also offer vegetarian options.
When to Go to Palawan
The best time to visit Palawan is from November to May, during the dry season when the weather is ideal for beach activities and island hopping. The months of March to May are the hottest and driest, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C. The rainy season starts from June to October, with September being the wettest month. It is not advisable to visit during this season due to the rough waters, high risk of typhoons, and potential transportation disruptions.
How Long to Stay in Palawan
To fully experience Palawan, it is recommended to stay for at least a week. This will give you enough time to explore the best Palawan beaches and islands, as well as indulge in various activities such as island hopping, diving, snorkeling, and hiking. If you want to visit all the destinations mentioned above, a 10-day itinerary would be ideal.
10-Day Family Itinerary in Palawan:
Day 1: Arrival in Puerto Princesa
- Check-in at your hotel and rest
- Visit the Puerto Princesa Baywalk Park and enjoy the sunset
- Dinner at KaLui Restaurant
Day 2: Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour
- Early morning pick-up from your hotel
- Travel to Sabang Wharf and take a boat to the Underground River
- Explore the underground river and its stunning rock formations
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Stop by Ugong Rock Adventures for zip-lining and spelunking
- Return to your hotel in Puerto Princesa
Day 3: Travel to El Nido
- Depart early for El Nido
- Stop by the Taraw Cliff Viewdeck for a panoramic view of El Nido
- Check-in at your hotel and rest
- Visit Las Cabanas Beach and watch the sunset
- Dinner at Altrove or Art Cafe
Day 4: El Nido Island Hopping Tour A
- Early morning pick-up from your hotel
- Island hopping tour of Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and 7 Commandos Beach
- Lunch at Shimizu Island
- Return to your hotel in El Nido
Day 5: El Nido Island Hopping Tour C
- Early morning pick-up from your hotel
- Island hopping tour of Matinloc Shrine, Helicopter Island, Hidden Beach, Secret Beach, and Star Beach
- Lunch at Helicopter Island
- Return to your hotel in El Nido
Day 6: Travel to Coron
- Depart early for Coron
- Check-in at your hotel and rest
- Visit Maquinit Hot Spring
- Dinner at Kawayanan Grill Station or Winnie’s Restaurant
Day 7: Coron Island Ultimate Tour
- Early morning pick-up from your hotel
- Island hopping tour of Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, Siete Pecados, Skeleton Wreck, and Malwawey Coral Garden
- Lunch at the beach
- Return to your hotel in Coron
Day 8: Calauit Safari Tour
- Early morning pick-up from your hotel
- Travel to Busuanga Island and visit the Calauit Wildlife Sanctuary
- Have lunch at the sanctuary
- Visit Concepcion Falls or Black Island
- Return to your hotel in Coron
Day 9: Free Day
- Spend the day exploring the town of Coron, shopping for souvenirs, or relaxing at your hotel
Day 10: Departure from Palawan
- Check-out from your hotel and travel back to Puerto Princesa for your flight home
How to Get Around Palawan
The most common mode of transportation in Palawan is by tricycle, a three-wheeled motorcycle with a sidecar. This is a convenient option for short distances within towns and for reaching nearby attractions. Tricycles can be easily hailed along the streets or found at designated tricycle terminals.
For longer distances, you can travel by van or bus. Vans are a popular choice for traveling between major destinations like Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron. They offer a more comfortable and faster option compared to buses. You can find van terminals in each town, and it’s recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons.
If you prefer a more private and flexible mode of transportation, you can also rent a car or hire a private van with a driver. This gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and visit off-the-beaten-path destinations. Car rental services are available at the airports and major towns.
To get to the islands and enjoy island hopping tours, you can join organized boat tours offered by local operators. These tours usually include transportation, a guide, and visits to multiple islands and snorkeling spots. You can book these tours in advance through travel agencies or directly at the tour operators’ offices.
