Things to Do in Palawan

About Palawan

Palawan sits between the South China Sea and Sulu Sea, and its limestone cliffs, underground rivers, and coral reefs make it one of the most biodiverse places in the Philippines. The province stretches across hundreds of islands, many still undeveloped. El Nido has lagoons you can only reach by kayak. Coron has World War II shipwrecks now covered in coral, turning them into dive sites where you can see history and marine life in one go. Both are worth the trip. The Tagbanua people have lived here for centuries, and their land management helped Palawan earn UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status. Puerto Princesa has an underground river that runs through caves—impressive, though crowded. Balabac Island is harder to reach and less developed. The beaches are good. The water is clear. You won't hear much traffic noise.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Tricycles cost PHP 10-20 ($0.18-0.36) per person in Puerto Princesa. Vans to El Nido run PHP 400-500 ($7.20-9) and take 5-6 hours. Island hopping tours cost PHP 1,200-1,800 ($22-32) per person including lunch. Motorbike rental costs PHP 400-600 ($7.20-11) per day.

Money: Budget meals in Puerto Princesa cost PHP 100-200 ($1.80-3.60). El Nido restaurants charge PHP 250-500 ($4.50-9) for seafood. ATMs exist in Puerto Princesa and El Nido but withdraw cash before heading to remote beaches. Island hopping tours are cash-only.

Cultural Respect: Filipinos are famously welcoming. Use 'po' or 'opo' for respect to elders. Dress modestly in churches. Environmental rules are strict in the Underground River and El Nido Marine Reserve - no touching coral or feeding fish. Tipping PHP 50-100 ($0.90-1.80) for boat crews is expected.

Food Safety: Try crocodile sisig at Kalui Restaurant for about PHP 300 ($5.40). Fresh seafood at Kinabuchs Grill costs PHP 200-400 ($3.60-7.20). In El Nido, grilled fish runs PHP 250-350 ($4.50-6.30). The local tamilok (woodworm ceviche) costs PHP 150 ($2.70).

When to Visit

Palawan enjoys a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, making timing important for optimal experiences. The dry season (December-May) offers the best weather, with temperatures averaging 24-32°C (75-90°F) and minimal rainfall (20-60mm monthly). March-May sees peak heat but perfect diving conditions with 30+ meter visibility. This high season commands premium pricing, with accommodations and tours costing 30-50% more than off-season rates. The wet season (June-November) brings heavy rainfall (150-300mm monthly), occasional typhoons, and temperatures of 23-30°C (73-86°F). However, this period offers significant savings (40-60% lower costs), fewer crowds, and lush green landscapes, though some island-hopping tours may be cancelled due to rough seas. Shoulder seasons (December and late May) provide excellent value with decent weather. Key festivals include the Baragatan Festival in Puerto Princesa (June 23-30) and Pangalap Island Festival in Taytay (February 2). Adventure travelers might appreciate the dramatic wet season scenery and budget savings, while beach lovers and families should stick to December-April. Divers will find optimal conditions March-June when seas are calmest and marine life most active.