Things to Do in Palawan

About Palawan

Where emerald limestone cliffs rise dramatically from impossibly clear turquoise waters, Palawan exists as the Philippines' last frontier—a slender archipelago province where pristine jungle-clad islands meet some of Southeast Asia's most biodiverse marine ecosystems. This is a place that has resisted overdevelopment, where vibrant coral gardens thrive beneath the surface and endemic wildlife still roams ancient forests above. Palawan doesn't just offer an escape; it presents an entirely different relationship with nature, one that feels increasingly rare in our modern world.

Travel Tips

• Walk to the tourism office near the pier at 6 AM to join shared tours or negotiate directly with boat operators for even better rates.

• Come early, remove your shoes at the entrance as required, and sit on floor cushions while enjoying their fresh catch at ₱350-500 per person.

• Stock up on ₱500 and ₱100 bills before heading to smaller islands or beach areas.

• Book directly at the Montenegro or El Nido Boutique office rather than through hotels to get refund guarantees.

When to Visit

# When to Visit Palawan

Palawan experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, making timing crucial for your visit. The dry season from November to May is peak tourist season, with December to February offering the most pleasant weather at 24-28°C, calm seas perfect for island hopping around El Nido and Coron, and excellent visibility for diving, though this coincides with Christmas holidays and Chinese New Year (late January/early February) when prices surge 30-50% and popular beaches become crowded with both international tourists and Manila residents. March to May brings hotter temperatures of 28-35°C with high humidity, particularly intense in April and May, but rewards visitors with fewer crowds at Puerto Princesa's Underground River and the best sea conditions for exploring the Bacuit Archipelago, plus the vibrant Baragatan Festival in late June celebrating Palawan's founding day with street dancing and cultural performances. The southwest monsoon (habagat) from June to October brings heavy rainfall averaging 200-400mm monthly, with August and September being wettest, causing rough seas that can cancel island tours and limited ferry operations between islands, though budget travelers benefit from 40-60% lower accommodation rates, dramatically fewer tourists, and the lush green landscapes are at their most photogenic—just be prepared for afternoon downpours and potential typhoons (though Palawan sits outside the main typhoon belt). The shoulder months of November and late May offer the sweet spot with temperatures around 26-30°C, occasional brief showers that keep prices moderate (20-30% below peak), manageable crowds at popular spots like Nacpan Beach and Kayangan Lake, and reliable enough weather for most activities while avoiding both the scorching heat and heavy monsoons.