Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Best of Palawan Island
Palawan Island is a paradise for nature lovers, with pristine beaches, lush jungles, and a relaxed, small-town atmosphere. It offers a range of accommodations, from budget hostels to mid-range options. While more remote and less developed than other areas, it’s perfect for travellers seeking serenity, adventure, and a slower pace. Accessible by local flights and ferries, Palawan provides a peaceful escape from urban life.
When to visit
Temp
Dec – May
26 – 32°C
79 – 90°F
Palawan Island’s Top Attractions
Attraction Matrix
Search for attractions that you are interested in based on WindingTravel categories:
WindingTravel Category Examples
Nature & Outdoors: Hiking, National Parks, Beaches, Wildlife Viewing, Camping
Culture & History: Museums, Monuments, Historical Buildings, Cultural Tours, Art Galleries
Food & Drink: Local Cuisine, Food Tours, Markets, Wineries/Breweries, Street Food
Entertainment & Nightlife: Bars, Nightclubs, Live Music, Festivals, Comedy Clubs
Adventure Sports: Surfing, Skydiving, Rafting, Scuba Diving, Climbing
Relaxation & Wellness: Spas, Hot Springs, Yoga Retreats, Meditation Centres, Thermal Baths
Shopping & Markets: Souvenirs, Flea Markets, Shopping Districts, Boutique Shops, Craft Fairs
Unique Experiences: Workshops, Volunteering, Local Festivals, Artisan Crafts, Rooftop Bars
City Highlights: Iconic Landmarks, Famous Streets, Observation Decks, Architectural Tours, Scenic Views
Family-Friendly: Zoos, Aquariums, Theme Parks, Interactive Museums, Educational Centres
Country Highlights: Attractions that are on the WindingTravel Country page that most tourists wont want to miss!
Review further details of each attraction to find out more:
| El Nido to Coron Expedition | Experience the El Nido to Coron expedition, an unforgettable island-hopping tour that takes you through stunning lagoons, beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. |
| Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park | Dive into Tubbataha Reefs, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its incredible biodiversity, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life. |
| Port Barton | Visit Port Barton, a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, snorkelling spots, and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and adventure. |
| Puerto Princesa Subterranean River | Explore the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring an impressive underground river and stunning limestone karsts. |
| El Nido Beaches | Relax at the beautiful beaches of El Nido, such as Seven Commandos Beach and Las Cabañas Beach, offering stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere for leisure. |
| Honda Bay Island Hopping | Enjoy an island-hopping tour in Honda Bay, exploring beautiful islands like Cowrie Island and Starfish Island, with opportunities for swimming and snorkelling. |
| Kayangan Lake | Swim and kayak in Kayangan Lake, famous for its crystal-clear waters and stunning limestone cliffs, offering breath-taking views and perfect spots for photos. |
| Nacpan Beach | Relax at Nacpan Beach, a stunning stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying breath-taking sunsets. |
| Cacnipa Island | Visit Cacnipa Island, known for its pristine beaches and clear waters, perfect for a day of relaxation, snorkelling, and enjoying the natural beauty. |
| Calauit Safari Park | Discover Calauit Safari Park, home to a variety of African and local wildlife, offering safari tours and educational experiences for families and nature lovers. |
Check the map to plan your route:
Transport
Palawan Island’s transport options include tricycles, jeepneys, and buses for short distances, while vans or private cars are common for longer trips. In some areas, motorbike rentals are popular. Ride-hailing apps like Grab are available in Puerto Princesa, though many areas rely on local transport. Public transport is affordable but basic.
Seasonality and Weather
Palawan Island experiences a tropical climate with a distinct dry and wet season. The dry season runs from December to May, offering warm, sunny weather. December to February is cooler, with temperatures around 24-30°C (75-86°F), while March to May can be hot and humid, reaching 28-34°C (82-93°F). The wet season lasts from June to November, with heavy rains, particularly in July and August.
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to May, for pleasant weather and less rainfall.
Where to stay
Puerto Princesa: The island’s capital, offering a variety of accommodations from budget to mid-range. Convenient for access to the airport and local amenities.
El Nido: Known for its stunning scenery, offering a mix of budget hostels, mid-range hotels, and beachfront resorts. Perfect for those seeking adventure and natural beauty.
Coron: Offers a range of budget and mid-range accommodations. Ideal for those wanting a peaceful, island vibe with easy access to snorkelling and diving spots.
Port Barton: A quieter, more laid-back area with affordable, eco-friendly accommodations. Great for relaxed, off-the-beaten-path stays.
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