23 Beautiful Palawan Tourist Spots You Can’t Miss in 2025

Picture yourself in a destination with 1,780 islands and islets. Each Palawan tourist spot turns into an adventure you won’t forget. The UNESCO Heritage site of Puerto Princesa Underground River stands as a world-renowned marvel, while Tabon Caves hold human bones that are 22,000 years old.

Tubbataha Reef welcomes you with its 360 coral species, and Kayangan Lake – known as Asia’s cleanest lake – adds to Palawan’s natural treasures. I found that there was something special about Palawan’s pristine beaches and hidden lagoons. The activities here span from island hopping to wreck diving. El Nido’s 50 beaches and Coron’s 12 World War II shipwrecks make a 7-day trip barely enough to experience this remarkable destination.

Let’s take a closer look at 23 must-visit spots that show why Palawan keeps its place among the world’s most beautiful islands.

El Nido Marine Reserve Park

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El Nido Marine Reserve Park, the Philippines’ largest marine sanctuary, covers 96,000 hectares. This 39-year old protected area showcases a rich blend of rainforests, mangroves, and pristine beaches.

El Nido Marine Reserve Park Location & Access

The reserve sits at the northeastern tip of Palawan Island, 240 kilometers from Puerto Princesa. Sea turtles that nest on its protected beaches gave the park its Spanish name “El Nido,” which means “the nest”. This natural wonder covers 50 beaches and has three major marine habitats.

El Nido Marine Reserve Park Activities

Crystal clear waters with 20-meter visibility make the reserve’s 30 dive sites a diver’s paradise. These waters are home to:

• 100 species of hard and soft corals
• 200 fish species including barracuda, parrotfish, and grouper
• Whale sharks and manta rays that visit seasonally

Snorkelers can head over to coral passages that lead to hidden grottoes. On top of that, the park’s beaches are a great way to get some sun, go island hopping, and watch marine life up close.

El Nido Marine Reserve Park Best Time to Visit

November to May marks the best time to visit. Whale sharks and manta rays make their appearance from December through February. Water visibility peaks during March, April, and May – perfect for diving and snorkeling. The southwest monsoon brings choppy seas and lower visibility from June to November, but you’ll find better deals during this time.

Puerto Princesa Underground River

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The Puerto Princesa Underground River spans 8.2 kilometers through limestone caves. This natural wonder stands as the world’s longest navigable subterranean river. UNESCO recognized this amazing Palawan tourist spot as a World Heritage Site in 1999.

Underground River Tour Experience

A 45-minute boat ride takes you 1.5 kilometers deep into the cave system. The massive chambers soar up to 60 meters high. The sort of thing I love about this place goes beyond stalactites and stalagmites – you’ll spot rock formations that look just like vegetables, dinosaurs, and religious figures. The cave’s unique ecosystem thrives with thousands of swallows and bats.

Underground River Prices & Permits

You won’t get in without a permit – it’s that simple. International visitors need to pay these fees:

• Entrance fee: ₱500
• Audio device: ₱85
• Environmental fee: ₱150
• Terminal fee: ₱5

Underground River Travel Tips

The best time to visit is between November and May. Pack light clothes that can get wet and bring a dry bag to protect your valuables. Remember these important tips:

• Don’t look up with your mouth open inside the cave
• Leave plastic bags behind – monkeys think they contain food
• Put on insect repellent before you start the tour

The park allows only 900 visitors daily to protect its natural beauty. Book your permits early through tour operators or the city booking office to secure your spot.

Kayangan Lake

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Kayangan Lake, a pristine freshwater oasis, lies nestled within Coron’s limestone cliffs and ranks as one of Asia’s cleanest lakes. This sacred water body blends 70% freshwater with 30% saltwater and gives visitors a unique glimpse into the Philippines’ natural wonders.

Kayangan Lake Location & Features

You can reach the lake only by boat from Coron Town, followed by a memorable climb of 360 steps. The water’s crystal-clear nature allows you to see up to 10 meters deep. Dramatic limestone formations create a natural amphitheater around this sacred Tagbanua domain.

Kayangan Lake Activities

The lake’s pristine waters let you enjoy several activities:

• Swimming in the refreshing brackish water
• Learning about the Awuyuk Cave near the boardwalk
• Snorkeling among unique rock formations

We made life jackets mandatory to keep everyone safe. The lake’s depth changes by a lot, and swimmers cannot touch the bottom in some deeper areas.

Kayangan Lake Photography Tips

The best photos come from a viewpoint halfway through the hike that overlooks Coron Bay instead of the lake. Early morning visits between 7:00-8:45 AM are perfect for photography with smaller crowds. Drone photography needs special permission, but underwater shots show off the lake’s exceptional clarity beautifully. Each person pays 300 pesos to enter, which helps protect and maintain this natural wonder.

Nacpan Beach

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Nacpan Beach showcases a stunning 4-kilometer stretch of cream-colored sand and swaying coconut trees along Palawan’s northern coast. This pristine paradise ranks among Trip Advisor’s top 10 best beaches worldwide in 2016.

Nacpan Beach Location & Access

You’ll find this beautiful beach 17 kilometers north of El Nido town. Getting there is easy with several transport options. A shuttle van makes eight daily trips at ₱600 round-trip. You can also rent motorbikes for ₱500 per day or take a local tricycle ride for a more authentic experience.

Nacpan Beach Activities

The beach’s crystal-clear waters and gentle waves make it perfect for beach lovers. Here’s what you can do:

• Swim in turquoise waters with a sandy bottom that extends far offshore
• Go parasailing through Mad Monkey Hostel (₱600 for one hour with two local beers included)
• Hike to the Twin Beaches viewpoint where Nacpan meets Calitang Beach
• Watch breathtaking sunsets from the beachfront

Nacpan Beach Facilities

The beach keeps its natural charm while providing simple amenities. Local beach shacks and restaurants serve fresh seafood and Filipino dishes. You can choose from boutique resorts to glamping spots for your stay. Beachfront establishments rent beach chairs and umbrellas for ₱250-500. The beach has restrooms and changing areas but maintains its unspoiled character.

Big Lagoon

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Big Lagoon sits on Miniloc Island, where towering limestone cliffs meet deep blue waters.

Big Lagoon Tour Options

You can reach this premier Palawan tourist spot only through El Nido Tour A. Tour packages range from USD 17.00 to USD 40.00 per person. You’ll need to pay extra fees – a 200-peso environmental fee and 200-peso entrance fee. The lagoon allows only 400 visitors each day, so booking your spot ahead is essential.

Big Lagoon Activities

Nature lovers will find crystal-clear waters perfect for various activities. Kayaking tops the list of popular things to do, and you can rent one for 400 pesos. The lagoon’s layout has three distinct parts:

• Main lagoon area
• Narrow inlet zone
• Left arm section with striking blue waters

You can swim in shallow areas or snorkel to spot small reef creatures. Stand-up paddleboarding gives you another way to enjoy these serene waters.

Big Lagoon Photography Spots

Photographers get their best shots between 7:00-8:30 AM when conditions are pristine. Light dancing on water creates stunning photo opportunities, and professional photographers choose these early hours. Dramatic limestone formations and lush greenery give nature photographers endless creative possibilities. Drone shots ended up revealing the lagoon’s true magnificence from above, showing off its natural grandeur.

Tubbataha Reef

_{Image Source: UNESCO World Heritage Center}

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a pristine marine sanctuary covering 97,030 hectares, sits in the middle of the Sulu Sea. This secluded paradise holds the distinction of being Southeast Asia’s only purely marine UNESCO World Heritage site.

Tubbataha Reef Diving Experience

Divers can visit from mid-March to mid-June when water visibility reaches an impressive 30 to 45 meters. The reef is available only through liveaboard trips from Puerto Princesa, with a 10-hour trip to reach the destination. Spectacular walls plunge into deep blue waters, and pristine coral gardens spread across 100,000 hectares.

Tubbataha Reef Marine Life

The park’s extraordinary marine biodiversity includes:

• 600 fish species and 360 coral species
• 11 shark species and 13 whale and dolphin species
• Breeding grounds for endangered hawksbill and green sea turtles

South Atoll attracts hammerhead sharks, while North Atoll draws large pelagics like giant trevally and barracuda. Divers need at least 50 logged dives because of the challenging currents.

Tubbataha Reef Conservation

The park serves as the Philippines’ largest marine protected area with strict no-take policies. Rangers keep watch 24/7 to prevent illegal fishing and unauthorized activities. Climate change has become the biggest challenge, affecting sea temperatures and increasing storm frequency. Each visitor pays a USD 75.00 entrance fee that supports conservation work and research projects.

Small Lagoon

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Small Lagoon stretches 150 meters long and 35 meters wide, nestled inside Miniloc Island’s limestone formations.

Small Lagoon Activities

The calm waters are perfect for adventure:

• Kayak through hidden caves and corners (USD 5-10 per hour)
• Swim in cool, refreshing waters
• Snorkel to see colorful marine life
• Learn about mini caves between limestone cliffs

Small Lagoon Access

You can reach the lagoon through Tour A or combination packages from El Nido town. Visitors need to swim or kayak through a narrow gap between two tall limestone walls. The boat ride from El Nido town takes about 20-30 minutes.

Small Lagoon Tips

November to May offers the best experience with calm seas and clear waters. The lagoon is less crowded during early morning visits between 7:00-9:00 AM. Remember to bring:

• A waterproof camera in a ziplock bag
• Snorkeling gear to explore underwater
• Water and basic supplies

The towering limestone cliffs create a natural shelter that keeps the water cool. This unique environment is a vital part of the ecosystem. Visitors should carry out all their waste and avoid touching coral formations to protect this natural wonder.

Honda Bay

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Honda Bay sits on mainland Palawan’s eastern side and engages visitors with its shallow coral reef platforms and eight flowing rivers. This amazing Palawan tourist spot has plenty to offer in its crystal-clear waters.

Honda Bay Island Hopping

The standard tour heads over to Luli Island, Cowrie Island, and Starfish Island. A full-day adventure costs around 1500 pesos, while private tours give you more flexibility. Luli Island’s unique sandbar appears and disappears with the tides, making it a fascinating sight.

Honda Bay Marine Life

The bay’s rich waters are home to:

• Whale sharks feeding on zooplankton (April to October)
• Oceanic Manta Rays making up 73% of Philippine sightings
• Dugongs that show up in early mornings
• Dolphins that feed on squid daily

Honda Bay Tour Tips

November to April brings sunny weather and calm seas – perfect for visiting. December through February sees cooler temperatures between 26°C and 30°C. Tours starting at 8 AM ended up giving the best experience. Visitors should bring along:

• Waterproof bags for belongings
• Reusable water bottles
• Sunscreen and hats

The bay’s steadfast dedication to environmental preservation shows in its strict regulations protecting marine sanctuaries. Tours come with hotel pickup services, licensed guides, and buffet lunches, making it easy to explore things to do in Palawan Philippines.

Snake Island

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Snake Island, previously Vigan Island, got its distinctive name from a mesmerizing S-shaped sandbar that connects mainland Palawan to a small islet.

Snake Island Sandbar

A remarkable sandbar extends about three kilometers and creates a unique natural phenomenon. The tides determine its visibility and submersion patterns. The sandbar remains about two feet underwater during high tide. Visitors can see it best between 5-7 AM when the tide reaches its lowest point.

Snake Island Activities

This palawan tourist spot provides exciting activities for visitors:

• Snorkeling along the shoreline to spot sea turtles and colorful fish
• Swimming in crystal-clear turquoise waters
• Kayaking around nearby mangroves
• Walking the sandbar during low tide

Visitors can choose Tour B packages that combine Snake Island with Pinagbuyutan Island and Cudugnon Cave. An outrigger boat takes 30-40 minutes to reach the island from El Nido proper.

Snake Island Viewpoints

A small shed sits atop a hill and serves as an observation point. Visitors can capture stunning photographs of the snake-like sandbar and enjoy Bacuit Bay’s panoramic views from this spot. The early morning hours provide the best photography opportunities before tour boats arrive. The viewpoint reveals a bird’s-eye view of the unique sand formation and El Nido’s surrounding islands.

Barracuda Lake

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Barracuda Lake sits among towering limestone cliffs and gives divers one of the world’s most amazing experiences with its remarkable thermocline phenomenon.

Barracuda Lake Features

This thermocline freshwater lake creates separate water layers with different temperatures and densities. The water at the surface stays at 28-30°C and changes to a warm 38°C in deeper areas. You’ll find depths of 30 to 40 meters here. The lake’s surface is freshwater while saltwater fills the bottom.

Barracuda Lake Activities

Clear waters let you see up to 30 meters ahead, and you can enjoy:

• Scuba diving through temperature layers
• Snorkeling along limestone formations
• Free diving in calm waters
• Photography of underwater landscapes

Barracuda Lake Access

You can get to the lake through packaged tours from Coron Town. Make sure your tour has Barracuda Lake in its itinerary. Each person pays an entrance fee of 150 PHP. The best time to visit is from late November to early May. The lake’s underground tunnels connect to the sea and create this special ecosystem that divers love to explore.

Secret Lagoon

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A small opening in towering limestone walls leads to Secret Lagoon, a hidden gem among Palawan tourist spots that gives swimmers an otherworldly experience.

Secret Lagoon Location

Secret Lagoon sits on Miniloc Island’s southern section and visitors can only reach it through El Nido’s Tour A package. Boats anchor away from the entrance. Visitors need to carefully squeeze through a small hole in the limestone formation to get inside.

Secret Lagoon Activities

The lagoon’s unique features let visitors:

• Swim in shallow waters near the entrance
• Discover deeper areas inside
• Take breaks at the nearby beach
• Grab fresh coconut juice from local vendors (₱100 per coconut)

The water stays cooler inside than outside, making it a perfect escape from the tropical heat. Most visitors spend about 45 minutes to see everything the lagoon has to show.

Secret Lagoon Photography

The best photos come between 7:00-8:45 AM, thanks to smaller crowds and better light. Smart visitors bring waterproof cases for their phones to capture amazing shots inside. The lagoon’s dramatic limestone walls create stunning photos, especially as sunlight streams through the opening. This spot ended up becoming one of Palawan’s best places for unique travel photos, mixing adventure with amazing photo opportunities.

Twin Lagoon

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Twin Lagoon stands out as one of Coron’s natural wonders that engages visitors with its unique mix of warm seawater and cool freshwater. This Palawan tourist spot showcases two breathtaking lagoons divided by a dramatic limestone wall.

Twin Lagoon Features

The first lagoon welcomes boats to dock and leads naturally to the second lagoon through a narrow passage. The lagoon’s water temperature creates an interesting experience as warm seawater meets pure underground river water. Black karst walls tower overhead to create a stunning backdrop that makes this spot one of Palawan’s best locations for nature photography.

Twin Lagoon Activities

The pristine waters offer several ways to enjoy the experience:

• Swim through the tunnel at the time of low tide
• Take a kayak around limestone formations (₱1000-1500 per day)
• Use wooden ladders at the time of high tide
• Take photos from the lifeguard station

Twin Lagoon Access

The entrance fee costs 200 pesos per person, and most visitors come through Coron town tours. The best time to visit is between 7:00-8:00 AM to beat the crowds. Low tide lets you swim through the tunnel between lagoons, while high tide requires climbing wooden ladders. Boats anchor in the small bay and offer kayak rentals to explore both lagoons. Since there’s no jetty, you’ll need to swim from your anchored boat to reach the rock wall.

Calauit Safari Park

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The 47-year old Calauit Safari Park covers 3,700 hectares on a secluded island in Palawan’s Calamian archipelago. This unique Palawan tourist spot brings Africa to the Philippines with its extraordinary wildlife sanctuary.

Safari Park Wildlife

Two African species thrive in the park: Reticulated giraffes and Grévy’s zebras. The sanctuary protects:

• 23 giraffes and 38 zebras
• 1,200 Calamian deer
• Philippine crocodiles
• Palawan bearded pigs
• Binturong (bearcat)
• Philippine mouse-deer

Safari Park Tours

Hotel pickups from Coron start early between 6:00-6:30 AM. Visitors can get up close with gentle giants at the giraffe feeding stations. Filipinos pay ₱200 while international visitors pay ₱400 to enter the park.

Safari Park Tips

November to May brings the best weather conditions to visit. Visitors should:

• Book their tours early as spots fill up quickly
• Wear comfortable shoes to walk around
• Bring water and sun protection

The park works hard to protect Palawan’s endangered species. The Provincial Government of Palawan manages this distinctive wildlife sanctuary through Executive Order No. 722.

Starfish Island

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Starfish Island lies beneath Honda Bay’s crystal-clear waters, where sea stars create a living carpet across the sandy seabed. This Palawan tourist spot shows nature’s artistry through its rich marine life.

Starfish Island Marine Life

The shallow waters around the island are home to many starfish species, with Chocolate Chip Starfish being the most common. These amazing creatures use tiny tentacle-like structures inside their five limbs to move around. Male Chocolate Chip Starfish have a distinctive horn in their center that makes them different from females.

Starfish Island Activities

You’ll find perfect conditions here for nature lovers:

• Snorkeling in waters free from jellyfish to see marine life up close
• Swimming with gentle sea stars
• Local guides prepare fresh lunch for visitors

Starfish Island Conservation

These marine treasures need careful protection. Of course, visitors need to follow strict rules to protect the ecosystem. Photos can be taken while keeping starfish in the water, since they can’t survive out of it. The island’s conservation work has ended up focusing on keeping the natural balance in this unique marine sanctuary. This ensures these remarkable creatures will thrive for future generations to see.

Port Barton Beach

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Port Barton, a peaceful fishing village between El Nido and Puerto Princesa, provides a perfect escape from crowded tourist spots.

Port Barton Location

This coastal paradise lies 123 kilometers northwest of Puerto Princesa. Minibus transfers connect the village to major towns, with rides taking about 3.5 hours from Puerto Princesa and 3 hours from El Nido. The village center makes everything convenient – you can walk to White Beach in just 30 minutes.

Port Barton Activities

The crystal-clear waters and natural beauty offer several exciting activities:

• Island hopping to Exotic Island and German Island
• Snorkeling in turtle-rich waters
• Hiking to waterfalls amid lush forests
• Kayaking in crystal-clear waters

The palm-lined beach creates perfect spots to watch the sunset. Visitors can explore the village’s unpaved roads or try various cuisines at local restaurants serving Asian to Greek dishes.

Port Barton Accommodations

Nightly rates range from USD 12 to USD 50. Budget travelers prefer popular hostels like CoCo Rico and My Green Hostel. The Holiday Suites, the area’s first resort hotel, sits right on the beach. Local properties maintain their authentic charm with beachfront cottages and boutique hotels. The best weather conditions occur between November and May, making it the ideal time to visit.

Sabang Beach

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Sabang Beach stretches along Palawan’s western coast with its crystal-clear waters and soft golden sand. This coastal paradise welcomes visitors to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Puerto Princesa Underground River.

Sabang Beach Features

Peaceful mornings at the beach create a perfect setting as soft mist blankets the sea. The shoreline’s vibrant mangrove forest naturally draws birds and aquatic creatures. Colorful tropical birds and various mammals call the surrounding rainforest their home, which adds to the beach’s natural charm.

Sabang Beach Activities

The clear waters welcome visitors with several activities:

• Swimming in calm waters
• Snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs
• A visit to the mysterious Sabang Cave
• Boat tours through mangrove canals

Visitors can enjoy unique cultural events like the Sea of Love Festival and Sea Life Festival that feature marine-themed parades and coral reef diving competitions.

Sabang Beach Access

The beach sits about 2 hours away from Puerto Princesa City. Regular busses and jeepneys connect from the city center. Visitors can choose between private cars and taxis for a comfortable ride, and some hotels run direct shuttle services from Puerto Princesa Airport. The beach is best visited between November and April, with its cool weather and calm seas making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Cowrie Island

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This crescent-shaped paradise got its name from the cowrie shells that used to fill its waters. You’ll find it just a boat ride away from Honda Bay.

Cowrie Island Activities

The clear waters and open spaces make this island perfect for adventure lovers:

• Take a swim in the crystal-clear waters
• Spot colorful marine life while snorkeling
• Play beach volleyball on the sandy shores
• Paddle along the quiet coastlines in a kayak
• Get your thrills on banana boat rides

Cowrie Island Facilities

Natural beauty meets modern comfort on this island. The main pavilion can host 300 guests and works great for events. Beach lovers can rent cozy huts and umbrellas to relax. The island’s restaurant and bar add to the tropical feel with fresh seafood, local specialties, and cool drinks.

Cowrie Island Tips

December to May brings the best weather with sunny days and calm waters. Smart visitors should pack:

• Beach gear and sun protection
• A waterproof bag
• Some cash
• Their own snorkeling equipment if they prefer

Kids love the shallow waters that make this spot perfect for families. Grown-ups can treat themselves to beachside massages or sip fresh coconut drinks. The island’s commitment to nature shows through its conservation rules. This Palawan tourist spot will stay beautiful for years to come.

Hidden Beach

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Dramatic limestone formations hide a beautiful secret – Hidden Beach emerges only after you navigate through narrow water channels. This secluded Palawan tourist spot is proof of nature’s architectural mastery.

Hidden Beach Location

The beach lies within El Nido’s Matinloc Strait, hidden behind karst limestone landscapes. Nature has created a sheltered paradise here that visitors can access through two water passages – a shallow one and a deeper route that’s perfect for snorkeling.

Hidden Beach Activities

The crystal-clear waters create perfect conditions for adventure seekers:

• Relaxing swims in turquoise, shallow waters
• Rich seaweed beds that shelter endangered clownfish
• Amazing photo opportunities in the natural amphitheater
• Peaceful moments watching birds and hearing their sweet whistles

Hidden Beach Access

You’ll find this beach on El Nido’s Tour C itinerary. Visitors can also take a ferry from El Nido town or travel along Bacuit Bay to reach Talisay Beach. The Swedish version of Survivor left behind props that you can still find here after filming their show. Visitors need to pay a 200-peso environmental fee, plus extra costs for snorkel gear and kayak rentals. Early birds get the best photos – the beach is most photogenic between 7:00-8:45 AM when crowds are thin.

Tabon Caves

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The Tabon Cave Complex, nestled in Palawan’s limestone formations, serves as the Philippines’ cradle of civilization. This remarkable site contains 218 caves, and 38 of them hold archeological treasures.

Tabon Caves History

Archeological teams made remarkable discoveries during their 1960s explorations. They found the Tabon Man skull cap, which dates back 22,000 years. This discovery provided the earliest proof of human life in the Philippines. The teams also uncovered pottery, jewelry, and tools that were 47,000 years old. These findings showed that humans lived here continuously from 50,000 years ago until the 14th century.

Tabon Caves Tours

Visitors can explore seven caves that are open to the public. A concrete road and boardwalk lead directly to the cave entrance. The site requires entry permits from the Tabon Caves Area Museum in Quezon, Palawan. Visitors need:

• Valid health declaration form
• Temperature check (below 37.5°C)
• Face mask
• Proper hiking attire

Tabon Caves Tips

The best time to visit is between 8:00-8:45 AM. The remote location means you should pack supplies since the area has no basic facilities. The trip takes a 3-hour van ride from Puerto Princesa and a 45-minute boat journey. You can also reach Tawa-Tawa by motorcycle after getting proper permits. The site welcomes people aged 15 to 65 years, and accommodates those with special needs.

Banana Island

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Banana Island curves gracefully along Palawan’s pristine waters, its distinctive shape resembling a tropical fruit. The Gallego Family has managed to keep this private sanctuary away from commercial tourism, preserving its authentic island charm.

Banana Island Features

Pristine white sandy beaches stretch along crystal-clear turquoise waters. The shoreline features vibrant coral reefs that teem with marine life just meters from the beach. A unique sandbar creates a natural walkable path connecting the island to Malaroyroy Peninsula during low tide.

Banana Island Activities

The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island provide various experiences:

• Snorkeling in deeper waters to spot clams and corals
• Beach volleyball on the pebbly shore
• Relaxing in beachfront hammocks
• Walking across the sandbar to Malaroyroy

Banana Island Access

Day tours cost 200 PHP for entrance fees. Overnight stays run approximately 1,300 PHP per person. Despite its remote location, the island provides simple amenities, including:

• A convenience store with refreshments
• Cottages equipped with electric fans and lighting
• Cooking facilities for guests who bring ingredients

Visitors will find the best conditions from November to April, with calmer seas and clearer waters. The island’s staff can arrange local fishing services that add to the authentic island experience.

Seven Commandos Beach

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Seven Commandos Beach stretches its fine white sand next to a line of swaying coconut trees under the dramatic limestone cliffs of El Nido.

Seven Commandos Location

This pristine paradise is only available by boat, just around the corner from El Nido Proper Town. The beach’s mainland location features a gently sloping seafloor that makes swimming perfect. The dramatic sunset views against limestone formations turn this spot into a photographer’s dream.

Seven Commandos Activities

The crystal-clear waters are perfect for beach lovers:

• Swimming and snorkeling with sea turtles
• Playing beach volleyball on dedicated courts
• Relaxing on white sand shores
• Flying out over water on the tree swing

Tour A packages stop here for about 45 minutes. Visitors can check out the eastern end of the beach where palm tree clusters create amazing photo spots.

Seven Commandos Facilities

This Palawan tourist spot is unique as it’s the only island with bars among El Nido’s attractions. A small beachfront hut serves everything from fruit shakes to cocktails. Food services run throughout the day to feed hungry beachgoers. The beach got its name from seven commandos who once called this place home – their names still appear on the island’s cliffs. The best time to visit ended up being between December and May when sunny conditions are perfect for things to do in Palawan Philippines.

Miniloc Island

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Miniloc Island Resort sits in a beautiful cove with dramatic limestone cliffs in the background, making it a premier eco-discovery destination in El Nido.

Miniloc Island Features

This stunning resort covers 224 hectares of pristine island terrain. We built 43 native-style cottages and rooms using local materials. Guests can choose from water cottages on stilts, seaview rooms, garden cottages, and cliff cottages tucked into the hillside. Each room’s private verandah gives spectacular views of the cove and nearby islands.

Miniloc Island Activities

The resort’s crystal-clear waters are full of marine life and perfect for adventures. You can pick from 20 exciting activities including:

• Guided tours to Big and Small Lagoons
• Snorkeling alongside 3-foot long groupers
• Kayaking through hidden beaches
• Windsurfing and hobie cat sailing
• Bottom fishing and mangrove tours

Miniloc Island Tips

December through February is the best time to spot whale sharks. The resort’s strong eco-friendly practices have earned it a spot on the prestigious Conde Nast Traveler Green List. All-inclusive rates cover meals, guided activities, and equipment rentals. You can explore secluded beaches by kayak at your own pace. The sort of thing I love is how the resort’s environmental officer gives fascinating talks about local wildlife that enhance the eco-discovery experience.

Cadlao Island

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Cadlao Island stands as El Nido’s largest island in the archipelago, covering 1,006 hectares. Its majestic peak soars 609 meters above Bacuit Bay and dominates El Nido’s skyline.

Cadlao Island Highlights

Ubugon Cove, also called Cadlao Lagoon, features stunning turquoise waters surrounded by steep cliffs covered in rich greenery. The island’s Pasandigan Beach and Paradise Beach welcome visitors with their perfect white sands that are great for sunbathing. Nat Nat Beach serves as a quiet getaway that stays away from the usual tourist crowds.

Cadlao Island Activities

The island’s crystal-clear waters create perfect conditions for adventure:

• Snorkeling spots near the beach reveal vibrant coral gardens
• Kayak routes wind through hidden coves and quiet spots
• Limestone formations challenge rock climbing enthusiasts
• Hiking trails lead to stunning viewpoints

Cadlao Island Access

The island sits close to El Nido town and visitors can reach it through local boat tours. Private boats let you explore the island’s attractions at your own pace, but you’ll need proper permits and equipment. December through May brings the best weather with temperatures between 26°C to 30°C. You’ll get the best photos and avoid crowds if you visit early between 5-7 AM.

Comparison Table

Tourist Spot	Location/Access	Main Features	Notable Activities	Best Time to Visit	Entry Fee
El Nido Marine Reserve Park	240km from Puerto Princesa	96,000 hectares, 50 beaches, 3 marine habitats	Diving, snorkeling, beach relaxation, island hopping	November to May	Not mentioned
Puerto Princesa Underground River	Access via tour operators	8.2km long navigable river, limestone caves up to 60m high	45-min boat journey, cave exploration	November to May	₱500 + ₱85 (audio) + ₱150 (env. fee)
Kayangan Lake	Boat from Coron Town, 360 steps climb	70% freshwater, 30% saltwater, crystal-clear visibility up to 10m	Swimming, cave exploration, snorkeling	7:00-8:45 AM for best photos	₱300
Nacpan Beach	17km north of El Nido town	4km cream-colored sand, coconut trees	Swimming, parasailing, hiking to Twin Beaches viewpoint	Not mentioned	Not mentioned
Big Lagoon	Miniloc Island, Tour A access	Deep blue waters, towering limestone cliffs	Kayaking, swimming, snorkeling	7:00-8:30 AM	₱200 (env. fee) + ₱200 (entrance)
Tubbataha Reef	10-hour journey from Puerto Princesa	97,030 hectares, UNESCO site	Diving, marine life observation	Mid-March to mid-June	USD 75
Small Lagoon	Miniloc Island	150m length, 35m width	Kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, cave exploration	November to May	Not mentioned
Honda Bay	Eastern side of mainland Palawan	Extensive shallow coral reefs, 8 flowing rivers	Island hopping, whale shark watching, snorkeling	November to April	₱1500 (full-day tour)
Snake Island	El Nido area	S-shaped sandbar, 3km length	Snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, sandbar walking	5-7 AM (low tide)	Not mentioned
Barracuda Lake	Coron Town access	Unique thermocline phenomenon, 30-40m depth	Scuba diving, snorkeling, free diving	November to May	₱150
Secret Lagoon	Southern Miniloc Island	Hidden pool behind limestone walls	Swimming, coconut drinking, photography	7:00-8:45 AM	Not mentioned
Twin Lagoon	Coron area	Two lagoons separated by limestone wall	Swimming, kayaking, climbing wooden ladders	7:00-8:00 AM	₱200
Calauit Safari Park	Calamian archipelago	3,700 hectares wildlife sanctuary	Wildlife viewing, giraffe feeding	November to May	₱400 (international visitors)
Starfish Island	Honda Bay area	Abundant sea stars, sandy seabed	Snorkeling, swimming, marine life observation	Not mentioned	Not mentioned
Port Barton Beach	123km from Puerto Princesa	Serene fishing village	Island hopping, snorkeling, hiking	November to May	Not mentioned
Sabang Beach	2 hours from Puerto Princesa	Golden sand, mangrove forest	Swimming, snorkeling, cave exploration	November to April	Not mentioned
Cowrie Island	Honda Bay area	Crescent-shaped island	Swimming, snorkeling, beach volleyball	December to May	Not mentioned
Hidden Beach	El Nido’s Matinloc Strait	Concealed by limestone formations	Swimming, snorkeling, bird watching	7:00-8:45 AM	₱200 (env. fee)
Tabon Caves	Quezon, Palawan	218 caves, 38 with archeological finds	Cave exploration, historical tours	8:00-8:45 AM	Not mentioned
Banana Island	Honda Bay area	White sandy beaches, connecting sandbar	Snorkeling, beach volleyball, hiking	November to April	₱200 (day tour)
Seven Commandos Beach	Near El Nido Proper Town	White sand beach, coconut trees	Swimming, snorkeling, beach volleyball	December to May	Not mentioned
Miniloc Island	El Nido area	224 hectares, eco-resort	Guided tours, snorkeling, kayaking	December to February	Not mentioned
Cadlao Island	Bacuit Bay, El Nido	1,006 hectares, highest peak (609m)	Snorkeling, kayaking, rock climbing	December to May	Not mentioned

Conclusion

Palawan is proof of nature’s artistry that lets you dive with whale sharks at Tubbataha Reef and walk through 22,000-year-old caves. These 23 destinations deserve at least a week to explore this tropical paradise properly.

Each location in Palawan tells its own story. You can experience the thermocline waters of Barracuda Lake or see African wildlife at Calauit Safari Park. Kayangan Lake’s crystal-clear waters, Hidden Beach’s dramatic limestone formations, and Nacpan Beach’s pristine shores create perfect backdrops for adventures you won’t forget.

November to May is the best time to visit Palawan. Clear skies and calm seas improve every activity during these months. El Nido Marine Reserve Park and Puerto Princesa Underground River limit their daily visitors to protect their delicate ecosystems.

Palawan ended up giving me more than beautiful beaches and stunning lagoons. It gave me a chance to connect with nature while supporting local conservation efforts. Just remember to pack your sunscreen, bring an underwater camera, and get ready for an adventure that will have you planning your next trip before this one ends.