Palawan, often called "The Last Frontier," is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the world. This tropical paradise is home to crystal-clear waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and some of the richest marine biodiversity on the planet. From the iconic karst landscapes of El Nido to the underground river in Puerto Princesa and the secluded beaches of Balabac, every stop is an adventure.

A road trip through mainland Palawan, combined with island-hopping excursions, is the best way to experience the province’s natural wonders, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life. Get ready for turquoise lagoons, secret coves, and unforgettable sunsets! 🌅🌊🐠

Stops Along Your Palawan Adventure

Puerto Princesa – Gateway to Palawan & Underground Wonders

Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan, is more than just a stopover—it's a mix of stunning beaches, rich history, and one of the New7Wonders of Nature. It’s the perfect place to start your Palawan road trip.

Recommended Stay: 1-2 days

Sights

• Puerto Princesa Underground River: A UNESCO-listed natural wonder, this 8.2-km-long subterranean river flows through an otherworldly limestone cave system. Take a guided boat tour to explore ancient rock formations and eerie chambers.
• Honda Bay Island-Hopping: Visit Luli Island (floating sandbar), Starfish Island (packed with colorful sea stars), and Cowrie Island (a great spot for beachside cocktails and water activities).
• Baker’s Hill: A quirky pastry shop, garden, and viewpoint all in one. Try their famous hopia (sweet-filled pastry) and explore the fun photo spots.
• Plaza Cuartel: A WWII historical site, where a tragic mass execution of prisoners of war took place. Now, it’s a quiet park with views of the bay.
• KaLui Restaurant: One of the most famous Filipino seafood restaurants in Palawan—try their tuna steak and lato (sea grapes)!

Port Barton – The Off-the-Beaten-Path Beach Escape

If El Nido and Coron are tourist magnets, Port Barton is the hidden paradise. This laid-back fishing village offers secluded beaches, fewer crowds, and some of the best snorkeling in Palawan.

Recommended Stay: 2 days

Sights

• German Island (Inaladelan Island): A private island retreat with white sand, swaying palms, and excellent snorkeling.
• Bigaho Waterfall: A short jungle trek leads to this refreshing waterfall, perfect for a midday dip.
• Starfish Sandbar: A shallow sandbar home to dozens of bright orange starfish—be sure to look, not touch!
• Coconut Beach: A secluded beach lined with coconut trees, offering crystal-clear waters and zero crowds.
• Gorgonzola Pizza: A well-loved vegetarian-friendly Italian spot in Port Barton, offering delicious wood-fired pizza and homemade pasta.

El Nido – The Crown Jewel of Palawan

El Nido is the ultimate island-hopping destination, famous for its dramatic limestone formations, hidden beaches, and blue lagoons. This is where travel dreams come true.

Recommended Stay: 3-4 days

Sights

• Big Lagoon: Paddle through a turquoise waterway surrounded by towering limestone cliffs—it’s one of the most photographed places in Palawan!
• Secret Beach: Hidden behind a limestone wall, this tiny cove inspired Alex Garland’s The Beach. You have to swim through a small opening to reach it!
• Snake Island (Vigan Island): A natural S-shaped sandbar connecting two islands—perfect for a scenic walk and panoramic drone shots.
• Nacpan Beach: A 4-km-long golden beach, one of the most stunning in the Philippines, with laid-back beach bars and epic sunsets.
• Taraw Cliff Viewpoint: A steep but rewarding climb that offers breathtaking aerial views of El Nido town and Bacuit Bay.

Coron – Shipwrecks, Lakes & Natural Hot Springs

Coron is a diver’s paradise and home to WWII shipwrecks, dramatic limestone islands, and stunning freshwater lakes. It’s less crowded than El Nido but just as spectacular.

Recommended Stay: 3-4 days

Sights

• Kayangan Lake: Known as "the cleanest lake in the Philippines", this emerald-green lagoon is surrounded by karst cliffs. The viewpoint here is a must for photographers!
• Twin Lagoon: These two connected lagoons offer a magical swim-through passage between towering cliffs.
• Barracuda Lake: A thermocline lake where hot and cold layers of water mix, creating an eerie, dreamlike effect for divers.
• Skeleton Wreck: One of the best snorkeling and diving sites in Palawan—a sunken WWII ship covered in corals.
• Maquinit Hot Springs: A rare saltwater hot spring, where you can soak in warm volcanic waters under the stars.

Balabac – The Ultimate Remote Paradise

For those willing to go the extra mile, Balabac is Palawan’s final frontier. Located at the southernmost tip, it offers untouched beaches, sandbars, and a castaway island experience.

Recommended Stay: 3 days

Sights

• Onuk Island: The most famous island in Balabac, with powdery white sand, shallow turquoise waters, and wild sea turtles.
• Candaraman Island: A sandbar paradise known as "Starfish Heaven"—perfect for snorkeling and drone photography.
• Patawan Island: A tiny, uninhabited island with crystal-clear waters and zero tourists.
• Punta Sebaring Beach: One of the whitest sand beaches in the Philippines, so soft it feels like powder.
• Canibungan Island: A great spot for camping, with crystal-clear waters, palm trees, and endless starry nights.

Getting There

• By Air: Fly to Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) for mainland Palawan or Busuanga Airport (USU) for Coron.
• By Ferry: Boats connect Coron and El Nido via a 4-5 hour ferry ride.
• By Van: Travel from Puerto Princesa to El Nido (5-6 hours) or Puerto Princesa to Port Barton (3-4 hours).

Good to Know

• Best for island-hopping: El Nido, Coron, and Balabac offer the most spectacular boat tours.
• Cash is king: ATMs are scarce outside major towns—bring enough cash for remote areas.
• Eco-fees & permits: Many islands and beaches require entrance fees, so keep small bills handy.
• Bring reef-safe sunscreen: Protect Palawan’s coral reefs by using ocean-friendly sunblock.
• Expect limited WiFi: Some remote islands have no cell signal or internet—perfect for disconnecting from the world.

For Foodies

• Tamilok at Kinabuchs (Puerto Princesa): A local delicacy—woodworm ceviche! Not for the faint-hearted, but a must-try.
• Seafood Grill at Altrove (El Nido): The best place for grilled seafood, wood-fired pizza, and craft cocktails.
• Lobster at La Sirenetta (Coron): Fresh lobsters served by the sea, with epic sunset views.

Palawan is a world of adventure, crystal-clear lagoons, and untouched paradise. Whether you’re snorkeling shipwrecks in Coron, kayaking through El Nido’s lagoons, or finding secret beaches in Balabac, this guide ensures you see the best of the Philippines’ most stunning province! 🌊🌴🐠