Palawan

How many days: 8

For a first visit, divide your time between two main areas. You could spend several days around El Nido for Bacuit Bay and mainland beaches, then continue to Puerto Princesa or a quieter coastal base. Alternatively, combine El Nido and Coron if you can arrange suitable transport between them.

Eight days gives you enough time for several boat excursions, some rest and the transfers involved. Adding more regions requires additional days because roads are slow and sea connections depend on conditions. Keep at least one flexible day if island-hopping is a major reason for visiting.

What to do in Palawan

Explore the lagoons of El Nido

Take a boat trip through Bacuit Bay to see limestone cliffs, sheltered lagoons and small beaches. Different routes visit different locations, so choose according to your interests.

Visit the Puerto Princesa Underground River

Travel to Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park for a guided boat journey through part of its remarkable cave system. Access is regulated and advance arrangements are sensible.

Discover Coron Island's lakes

Explore designated visitor areas around Coron Island, including its striking inland lakes and limestone scenery. Follow local access rules and respect the area's Indigenous custodians.

Snorkel in clear coastal waters

Join an excursion to suitable reef areas and look for tropical fish and coral. Choose responsible guides and avoid standing on or touching marine life.

Relax at Long Beach in San Vicente

Spend time on this extensive sandy shoreline, which feels very different from Palawan's busier island-hopping centres. The attraction is its space and slower pace.

Explore Port Barton's islands

Take a boat excursion from this smaller coastal village to nearby beaches and snorkelling areas. It is a good alternative if you prefer a less hectic atmosphere.

Visit Nacpan Beach

Travel north from El Nido to enjoy a long stretch of sand framed by palms. Spend an afternoon swimming when conditions are safe and relaxing away from town.

Discover Coron Bay's wrecks

Qualified divers can explore recognised Second World War shipwreck sites around Coron. Depths and conditions vary, so use a reputable dive operation suited to your certification.

Explore Honda Bay

Take a boat trip from the Puerto Princesa area to visit small islands and designated swimming spots. It is a convenient introduction to the region's coastal scenery.

Spend time in Puerto Princesa

Explore the provincial capital's waterfront, markets and local food culture. It provides a useful glimpse of urban Palawan beyond the beach destinations.

What to eat and drink

Try freshly grilled fish

Coastal communities serve fish simply with rice and dipping sauces. Ask about the catch and choose places that handle seafood carefully.

Sample chicken inasal

Enjoy marinated grilled chicken with rice and citrus-based condiments. It is widely approachable even if Filipino food is unfamiliar.

Eat seafood sinigang

Try a sour, comforting soup made with fish or prawns and vegetables. Its tamarind-like acidity makes it distinctive.

Try a Filipino rice breakfast

Garlic rice, egg and a savoury accompaniment provide a filling start before a boat trip. Look for different silog combinations.

Enjoy fresh tropical fruit

Mango, banana, pineapple and coconut are easy choices in the heat. Buy whole fruit or choose freshly prepared options from hygienic sellers.

Sample local vegetable dishes

Balance seafood meals with vegetables cooked in garlic, coconut milk or savoury sauces. Ask what is seasonal and available locally.

Getting around

Palawan is much larger than it looks on a map. Puerto Princesa and El Nido are connected by road, but the journey takes several hours on winding routes. Shared vans, buses and private transfers are common options. Within towns, tricycles handle short trips, while some beaches require a longer road journey. Walking is practical in compact centres but not between the main destinations.

Boats are essential for visiting lagoons, offshore islands and many snorkelling areas. Coron is separated from the main island of Palawan and requires a flight or suitable sea connection rather than a simple road transfer. Check transport availability and sea conditions before finalising a multi-stop itinerary.

Good to know

• Palawan is a province rather than one compact destination. Choose bases before deciding how many days you need.
• Boat trips can be affected by tropical storms, rough seas and official weather restrictions.
• Carry cash outside major centres, where cash machines and card facilities may be limited.
• Some protected areas require permits, environmental fees or advance booking.
• Use insect repellent, particularly around forested and rural areas, and seek current health advice before travelling.
• Do not assume reliable mobile coverage, electricity or fast internet in remote coastal locations.