Top Things to Do in Palawan
20 must-see attractions and experiences
Palawan is a narrow, 450-kilometre-long island stretching between the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea in the westernmost reach of the Philippine archipelago. It contains what many consider the finest natural scenery in Southeast Asia: limestone karst cliffs rising from water so clear that boats appear to float on air, underground rivers navigable by paddled boat, and coral reefs that rank among the healthiest in the Coral Triangle. The island has been voted the world's best island by multiple travel publications, yet much of its interior and northern coastline remains accessible only by boat or unpaved road. The main hubs are Puerto Princesa (the provincial capital and arrival point for most flights), El Nido (the way into the Bacuit Archipelago's limestone lagoons), and Coron (technically on Busuanga island to the north, known for WWII wreck diving and freshwater lakes). Each hub has a distinct character: Puerto Princesa is urban by Palawan standards, El Nido is backpacker-turned-boutique, and Coron balances diving culture with island-hopping tourism. Between them stretch hours of coastal road, fishing villages, and mangrove estuaries. First-time visitors should plan for slower travel than Philippine distances suggest. The Puerto Princesa to El Nido road takes five to six hours by van despite being only 230 kilometres, and boat schedules depend on weather and sea conditions. Palawan rewards those who build buffer days into their itinerary, rent a motorbike for sections of coast, and resist the urge to see everything. The environmental fees and permits at most attractions fund conservation of the very ecosystems you came to see.
Don't Miss These
Our top picks for visitors to Palawan
Puerto Princesa City Baywalk Park
Notable AttractionsThis waterfront promenade along Puerto Princesa's Honda Bay shoreline stretches for over a kilometre, lined with food stalls, seafood restaurants, and vendors selling grilled squid and fresh buko (coconut) juice. The Baywalk is the city's evening social centre, where families gather at sunset to eat, walk, and watch the sky turn orange over the bay. As a destination it is modest, but as an introduction to Palawan's relaxed pace and generous street-food culture, it sets the tone for everything that follows.
Sandoval St, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philippines ·View on Map
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park
Natural WondersThis UNESCO World Heritage Site protects an 8.2-kilometre underground river that flows through a limestone cave system directly into the South China Sea -- one of the longest navigable underground rivers in the world. Visitors paddle through 1.5 kilometres of the cave on guided boats, passing cathedral-sized chambers, stalactite formations that have been growing for millions of years, and colonies of swiftlets and bats whose guano sustains a unique cave ecosystem. The boat trip is necessarily brief, but the scale of the caverns -- some over 60 metres high -- is staggering.
Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philippines ·View on Map
Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (Crocodile Farm)
Outdoor ActivitiesLocated on the outskirts of Puerto Princesa, this government-run facility breeds and studies the Philippine crocodile (Crocodylus mindorensis), one of the most critically endangered crocodile species in the world, alongside the larger saltwater crocodile. The centre houses over a thousand crocodiles in various life stages and includes a small zoo with other Philippine endemic species including bearcat, porcupine, and monitor lizards. Educational signage explains the conservation breeding programme and the ecological role of crocodilians.
QMXV+QGC, Puerto Princesa South Road, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philippines ·View on Map
Palawan Butterfly Ecological Garden and Tribal Village
Cultural ExperiencesThis combined butterfly garden and indigenous cultural exhibit outside Puerto Princesa houses native Palawan butterfly species in a netted garden and presents the traditional lifeways of the Batak and Palawano indigenous peoples through reconstructed dwellings, artefacts, and occasional cultural performances. The butterfly garden is modest but features species endemic to Palawan, while the tribal village component -- when staffed by actual community members rather than performers -- provides meaningful insight into the indigenous cultures being displaced by Palawan's development.
QPWJ+3W9, Puerto Princesa City, 5300 Palawan, Philippines ·View on Map
Siete Pecados Marine Park
Natural WondersThis cluster of seven small limestone islets near Coron town protects some of the most accessible and colourful coral reefs in the Calamian Islands. The shallow waters between the islets teem with reef fish, giant clams, and healthy table corals, and the snorkelling requires no boat beyond the short ride from Coron's pier. Siete Pecados is typically the first stop on Coron island-hopping tours, and its proximity to town makes it possible to visit independently by hired bangka.
X6MJ+772, Coron, Palawan, Philippines ·View on Map
Luli Island
Notable AttractionsThis small sandbar island in Honda Bay near Puerto Princesa appears and disappears with the tide -- "Luli" derives from "lulubog, lilitaw" (sinking, surfacing). At low tide, the sandbar extends into a broad white beach surrounded by shallow turquoise water; at high tide, much of it submerges, leaving only a small platform and jetty. The island is a standard stop on Honda Bay island-hopping tours and offers basic facilities including a floating bar and snorkelling areas.
VQF8+FQW, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philippines ·View on Map
Twin Lagoon
Natural WondersLocated between two towering limestone cliffs near Coron island, Twin Lagoon consists of an outer lagoon accessible by boat and an inner lagoon reached by swimming through a narrow opening in the rock wall or climbing a short ladder over the limestone barrier. The inner lagoon is a thermocline experience: warm surface water sits atop cold freshwater springs, creating visible temperature layers you can feel as you descend. The sheer limestone walls rise vertically from the water's surface, and the enclosed silence of the inner lagoon is cathedral-like.
W6X5+2VV, Coron, Palawan, Philippines ·View on Map
White Beach
Notable AttractionsThis 700-metre stretch of fine white sand on the western coast of Palawan, accessible by boat from Puerto Princesa, is one of the most photogenic beaches on the island. Unlike the beaches of El Nido, which are often backed by jungle and limestone, White Beach is a classic tropical crescent with calm, shallow water, coconut palms, and a handful of basic beachfront huts serving grilled seafood. It fills with day-trippers from Honda Bay tours but clears substantially by mid-afternoon.
C543+6X8, San Vicente, Palawan, Philippines ·View on Map
UGONG ROCK ADVENTURES
Outdoor ActivitiesThis adventure activity centre near the Subterranean River takes visitors on a guided climb through and over a massive limestone rock formation, followed by a zipline descent back to the forest floor. The climb passes through caves, narrow crevices, and up iron ladder rungs bolted into the rock face, emerging at a viewpoint atop the karst where the surrounding jungle canopy spreads to the horizon. It is a physical, adrenaline-driven complement to the contemplative boat ride through the Underground River nearby.
3VP3+PVV, Purok Pagkakaisa, Brgy, Tagabinet, Puerto Princesa City, 5300 Palawan, Philippines ·View on Map
Calauit Island National Park
Natural WondersThis island reserve off the northern tip of Busuanga hosts a unique wildlife experiment: in 1976, Ferdinand Marcos relocated African wildlife (giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species) to Calauit alongside native Calamian deer and Philippine mouse deer. The result is a unusual landscape where African savanna animals roam a tropical Philippine island, wading through mangroves and grazing beneath coconut palms. The conservation ethics are debatable, but the visual spectacle of giraffes against a Philippine seascape is memorable.
7VHJ+4VC, Busuanga, Palawan, Philippines ·View on Map
Historic Sites
Palawan's historic sites include the 3,000-year-old archaeological layers of Cudugnon Cave and the atmospheric ruins of Matinloc Shrine, both accessible only by boat and embedded in the same limestone landscape that defines the island's natural character.
Cudugnon Cave
Historic SitesThis limestone sea cave on one of the Bacuit Archipelago islands near El Nido has yielded archaeological evidence of human habitation dating back over 3,000 years, including burial jars, Chinese porcelain shards, and stone tools. The cave is accessible by boat and on foot during low tide, and its wide entrance frames a view of the archipelago's turquoise waters and limestone islands. The archaeological significance gives depth to what is already a visually striking cavern.
39M3+Q2V, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines ·View on Map
Matinloc Shrine
Historic SitesBuilt in 1982 on the limestone cliff face of Matinloc Island in the Bacuit Archipelago, this abandoned Catholic shrine was once used for retreats but is now derelict, its concrete buildings slowly being reclaimed by vegetation and weather. The shrine's position -- wedged into a cliff above turquoise water, with a hidden beach behind it -- makes it one of El Nido's most photographed island-hopping stops. A short scramble over the shrine leads to a viewpoint overlooking the Secret Beach and the surrounding island chain.
673G+34C Matinloc Island, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines ·View on Map
Outdoor Activities
Adventure activities in Palawan range from limestone rock climbing and ziplining at Ugong Rock to caving at Hundred Caves and cliff scrambling at Taraw. The ungroomed, community-managed nature of these activities gives them an authenticity that polished commercial operations cannot replicate.
Taraw Cliff
Outdoor ActivitiesRising sharply above El Nido town, Taraw Cliff is a limestone karst peak that can be climbed via a steep, unmarked trail using fixed ropes and bare-rock scrambling. The summit delivers a 360-degree panorama of the Bacuit Archipelago, El Nido town, and the surrounding rice paddies. The climb takes 20-30 minutes and is physically demanding, with sharp limestone that requires gloves and closed-toe shoes. This is not a maintained trail; it is a raw scramble up a karst tower.
59HQ+JGQ, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines ·View on Map
Hundred Caves
Outdoor ActivitiesThis network of caves and rock formations near Quezon, southern Palawan, includes interconnected chambers, narrow passages, and skylights where vegetation hangs down from openings in the limestone roof. The caves were used as shelters by indigenous communities and Japanese soldiers during World War II, and their labyrinthine layout requires a local guide to navigate. The difficulty level is moderate, involving crawling through tight spaces and climbing over rock formations.
3RJX+VMM, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philippines ·View on Map
Natural Wonders
Palawan's natural attractions span the full spectrum from underground rivers and sea caves to coral reefs, mangrove estuaries, and jungle waterfalls. The UNESCO-listed Subterranean River is the headline act, but the aggregate effect of Palawan's marine parks, lagoons, and limestone formations creates a concentration of natural beauty that justifies the island's repeated designation as the world's best.
Pamuayan Falls
Natural WondersThis jungle waterfall near Puerto Princesa is reached by a 20-minute trek through lowland forest, crossing streams on stepping stones before arriving at a multi-tiered cascade that drops into a deep, swimmable pool. The falls are less visited than the Underground River, giving them a quieter, more personal atmosphere. The surrounding forest is home to Palawan endemic bird species and the trail passes through bamboo groves and tropical hardwood stands.
C682+PX6, Unnamed Road, San Vicente, Palawan, Philippines ·View on Map
Firefly Watching Palawan
Natural WondersThis guided evening boat tour through the mangrove estuaries near Puerto Princesa or Sabang follows the river channels as darkness falls and thousands of fireflies illuminate the mangrove trees in synchronised flashing patterns. The effect is extraordinary: entire trees blink in unison, creating what looks like natural Christmas lighting along the riverbanks. Guides paddle quietly through the channels, and the only sounds are water, frogs, and the occasional splash of a fish.
baywalk, Puerto Princesa City, 5300 Palawan, Philippines ·View on Map
Cathedral Cave
Natural WondersThis large sea cave on one of the Bacuit Archipelago islands has a cavernous interior with a high, vaulted ceiling that gives it its name. The cave is accessible by boat and kayak, and its entrance is wide enough to paddle through into a chamber where sunlight filters through cracks in the limestone above, illuminating the water in shafts of green light. Bats roost in the upper reaches, and the acoustics amplify even whispered conversation.
39GM+GRM, Pinasil Island, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines ·View on Map
Dewil Eco Mangrove Tour
Natural WondersThis community-managed eco-tour in the Dewil Valley near El Nido takes visitors through a mangrove estuary by paddle boat, with local guides explaining the ecological role of mangroves as nursery habitats for fish, coastal storm barriers, and carbon sinks. The tour passes through dense mangrove channels where root systems create intricate patterns above and below the waterline. The community management model ensures that tourism revenue directly supports the families who protect the mangrove forest.
5GV7+CV, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines ·View on Map
Salakot Falls
Natural WondersNamed for its resemblance to a salakot (traditional Filipino conical hat), this waterfall near Puerto Princesa drops over a wide, dome-shaped rock formation into a shallow pool. The falls are reached by a short trail through secondary forest and are less frequented than Pamuayan Falls, offering a quieter jungle waterfall experience. During the wet season (June-November), the water volume increases significantly and the surrounding forest is lush.
PG3C+8QW, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philippines ·View on Map
Museums & Galleries
The Palawan Heritage Center and Butterfly Garden provide cultural context for an island more commonly experienced through its beaches and reefs, documenting indigenous traditions and colonial history that give depth to the natural landscape.
Palawan Heritage Center
Museums & GalleriesLocated in Puerto Princesa, this small museum and cultural centre documents Palawan's indigenous cultures, colonial history, and natural heritage through exhibits that include traditional Palawano musical instruments, weaving samples, archaeological finds, and ecological displays. The centre provides essential context for understanding how Palawan's indigenous communities, Spanish colonisation, and Philippine national identity intersect on this frontier island.
Legislative Building, Puerto Princesa City, 5300 Palawan, Philippines ·View on Map
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
November through May is the dry season, offering the calmest seas, best visibility for snorkelling and diving, and most reliable boat schedules. December through February is peak season with the most tourists and highest prices. March through May is hot but less crowded. The wet season (June-October) brings lower prices and fuller waterfalls but can disrupt boat schedules.
Booking Advice
The Underground River has a strict daily visitor cap; book permits at least one week in advance through the Puerto Princesa tourism office. El Nido island-hopping tours (Tours A, B, C, D) should be booked a day ahead during peak season. Coron dive operators fill up in January-March; book before arriving. The Calauit Safari requires boat charter from Busuanga.
Save Money
Eat at local carinderias (small canteen-style restaurants) rather than tourist-facing restaurants; a rice-and-adobo meal costs under two dollars. In El Nido, join shared island-hopping bangkas rather than hiring private boats. Travel by public van between Puerto Princesa and El Nido rather than private transfer (same route, one-fifth the price). Book directly with local operators rather than through hotel front desks, which add commissions.
Local Etiquette
Respect environmental rules: do not touch coral, do not collect shells or marine life, and use reef-safe sunscreen. In indigenous communities (Batak, Palawano), ask permission before entering or photographing. Dress modestly when visiting shrines and churches. Filipinos are indirect communicators; avoid confrontational language even in disputes. Tipping 10-15% is appreciated in restaurants. Always carry small bills as change is scarce outside Puerto Princesa.
Book Your Experiences
Guided tours, tickets, and activities in Palawan