Palawan Travel Guide 2026 — El Nido, Coron & More | Waddat

Meta description: Complete Palawan travel guide 2026 — El Nido lagoons, Coron wrecks, underground river, best hotels, how to get there & budget tips.

Why Visit Palawan
Best Time to Visit Palawan
How to Get to Palawan
Where to Stay in Palawan
Things to Do in Palawan
Getting Around Palawan
Food & Drink in Palawan
Day Trips & Multi-Day Trips
Palawan Travel Tips
FAQ

Why Visit Palawan

If there's one place in the Philippines that consistently tops "most beautiful island" lists worldwide, it's Palawan. This slender archipelago stretches from Mindoro in the northeast down to Borneo in the southwest, and every inch of it delivers jaw-dropping scenery.

Palawan is home to the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of Nature. It's where you'll find the towering limestone karsts of El Nido, with hidden lagoons accessible only by kayak through narrow crevices. It's where Coron's crystal-clear lakes hold Japanese WWII shipwrecks just below the surface. And it's where beaches like Nacpan stretch for kilometers with hardly another soul in sight.

What makes Palawan special is the variety. You can go from world-class diving at Tubbataha Reef to sipping fresh mango shakes on a white-sand beach — all in the same trip. The infrastructure has improved massively in recent years, with more flights, better roads, and reliable tour operators. Yet Palawan still feels wild and unspoiled in a way that few destinations in Southeast Asia can match.

Whether you're a backpacker on a tight budget or a traveler looking for luxury island resorts, Palawan has something for you. This Palawan travel guide 2026 covers everything you need to plan the perfect trip.

Best Time to Visit Palawan

Dry Season (November — May) ✅ Recommended

The dry season is the best time to visit Palawan. Skies are clear, seas are calm (crucial for island hopping), and temperatures range from 25–34°C (77–93°F).

Peak Season: December — February The coolest and driest months, with temperatures around 25–31°C. This is when Palawan gets busiest — flights fill up, hotels charge peak rates, and popular tour spots like El Nido's lagoons can feel crowded. Book at least 2–3 months in advance if visiting during this period.

Shoulder Season: March — May Temperatures rise to 32–34°C, but crowds thin out and you'll find better deals on accommodation. March to May is also the best window for diving at Tubbataha Reef (liveaboards run April–June only). If you can handle the heat, this is an excellent time to visit.

Rainy Season (June — October) ⚠️ Caution

The southwest monsoon brings heavy rains and rough seas. Many island-hopping tours cancel regularly, and typhoons are possible from July to September. Some resorts and restaurants close during these months.

That said, if you don't mind rain and want the place nearly to yourself, October can be a gamble — sometimes the weather breaks early. But don't risk June through September unless you have flexible plans.

Quick Summary

Period	Weather	Crowds	Best For
Dec–Feb	Cool, dry	High	First-timers, families
Mar–May	Hot, dry	Medium	Diving, budget travelers
Jun–Oct	Rainy, storms	Low	Not recommended

💡 Pro tip: For the best balance of weather, crowds, and prices, aim for late November or early March.

How to Get to Palawan

Flying to Palawan ✈️

Puerto Princesa (PPS) — The Main Gateway Puerto Princesa is Palawan's capital and the most common entry point. Multiple daily flights from Manila with:

Cebu Pacific — Usually the cheapest ($30–60 one-way, 1.5 hours)
AirAsia — Budget option, frequent sales ($25–50)
Philippine Airlines — Full service, more legroom ($50–80)

You can also fly from Cebu to Puerto Princesa with Cebu Pacific (1.5 hours, $30–60).

El Nido Airport (ENI) — Direct to the Action AirSwift operates direct flights from Manila to El Nido (about 1 hour) and from Cebu to El Nido. Fares are steep ($80–150 one-way), but you skip the 5–6 hour van ride from Puerto Princesa. Planes are small (50-seater ATR turboprops) and weight limits are strict (15kg checked, 7kg carry-on).

Busuanga Airport (USU) — For Coron Cebu Pacific flies from Manila to Busuanga (Francisco B. Reyes Airport), about 40 minutes. From the airport, it's a 30–45 minute van ride to Coron town ($8–12). Flights start around $35–60.

Ferry to Palawan 🚢

2GO Travel runs overnight ferries from Manila to Puerto Princesa (approximately 12 hours). Prices range from $30–60 depending on cabin class (economy to tourist-class bunk). Departures are typically 2–3 times per week. This is a budget-friendly option if you're not in a rush and don't mind basic accommodations.

Getting Between Palawan Destinations

Route	Option	Duration	Cost
Puerto Princesa → El Nido	Shared van	5–6 hours	₱700–1,100 ($12–20)
Puerto Princesa → El Nido	Private van	4–5 hours	₱3,500–5,000 ($60–90)
Puerto Princesa → El Nido	AirSwift flight	40 min	$70–130
El Nido → Coron	Fastcraft ferry (Montenegro Lines)	3–4 hours	₱1,400–1,800 ($25–35)
El Nido → Coron	Private boat	6–8 hours	₱8,000–15,000 ($140–270)

💡 Pro tip: Book the Puerto Princesa to El Nido van online in advance through Klook or your guesthouse — they fill up during peak season. The road is scenic but winding, so bring motion sickness meds if you're prone.

For more transportation tips across the Philippines, check out our Complete Guide to Getting Around the Philippines.

Where to Stay in Palawan

🏨 Luxury Picks ($200+/night)

Booking.com: Two Seasons Coron Island & Resort A stunning resort on Bulalacao Island, a 15-minute boat ride from Coron town. Private beach, infinity pool, and full diving center. From $250/night.

Booking.com: El Nido Resorts Lagen Island Set in a lush cove surrounded by ancient limestone cliffs. Part of the El Nido Resorts eco-system, known for sustainability. From $350/night.

Booking.com: Club Paradise Palawan Located on Dimakya Island near Coron. Eco-luxury resort with a house reef perfect for snorkeling right off the beach. From $200/night.

Booking.com: Sheridan Beach Resort & Spa The best luxury option near Puerto Princesa, located in Sabang (close to the Underground River). Beachfront rooms and a full spa. From $150/night.

🏡 Mid-Range Picks ($40–150/night)

Booking.com: Aziza Paradise Hotel — Puerto Princesa Modern hotel with a pool, close to the airport and city center. Great base before or after the Underground River. From $45/night.

Booking.com: The Gypseys Lair Art Cafe & Boutique Hotel — El Nido Charming, art-filled boutique hotel in El Nido town. Excellent breakfast and a rooftop deck. From $50/night.

Booking.com: Hannahs Place — Coron Beachfront resort with an organic farm and great sunset views. A short tricycle ride from town. From $60/night.

Booking.com: Harmony Beach Resort — El Nido Located on Corong-Corong Beach (quieter than El Nido town), with a pool and beachfront cabanas. From $70/night.

🛏️ Budget Picks ($8–30/night)

Booking.com: Outpost Beach Hostel — El Nido The most popular hostel in El Nido, right on the beach with a social vibe, free breakfast, and a bar. Dorm beds from $10/night, private rooms from $25.

Booking.com: Where 2 Next Hostel — El Nido Clean, modern hostel with a pool and great common area. Popular with solo travelers. Dorm beds from $8/night.

Booking.com: Kangaroo Hostel — Coron Centrally located in Coron town, with a rooftop terrace and organized social events. Dorm beds from $8/night.

Booking.com: Sheebang Hostel — Puerto Princesa Budget-friendly option near the city center with both dorms and private rooms. Free WiFi and a shared kitchen. Dorm beds from $8/night.

For more hotel options by destination, see our guides on Best Hotels in El Nido and Where to Stay in Coron.

Things to Do in Palawan

🏝️ El Nido Attractions

El Nido Island Hopping Tour A — Lagoons & Beaches This is the most popular tour and for good reason. You'll visit the Small Lagoon (kayak through a narrow opening into a hidden turquoise basin), Big Lagoon, Seven Commando Beach, and Shimizu Island. The karst formations rising from impossibly blue water are postcard-perfect.

Cost: ₱1,400–2,300 ($25–40) per person
Duration: Full day (8am–4pm), lunch included
Book via: Klook: El Nido Tour A Island Hopping or local operators on the beach
Tip: Go early — the Small Lagoon gets crowded by 10am

El Nido Island Hopping Tour C — Hidden Beaches & Shrine Tour C is the adventure tour. Highlights include Hidden Beach (accessed through a small hole in the rocks), Helicopter Island (snorkeling with sea turtles), Secret Beach, and the Matinloc Shrine viewpoint.

Cost: ₱1,400–2,300 ($25–40) per person
Duration: Full day (8am–4pm), lunch included
Book via: Klook: El Nido Tour C Island Hopping

Nacpan Beach A stunning 4km stretch of golden sand about 45 minutes by tricycle from El Nido town. It's free to visit and far less crowded than the town beaches. There are a few beachside restaurants and bars where you can spend the whole day.

Cost: Free entry, ₱300–500 ($5–9) tricycle round trip
Best time: Late afternoon for sunset

El Nido Island Hopping Tour B & D Tour B focuses on caves and coves (Cudugnon Cave, Snake Island, Cathedral Cave). Tour D covers the southern islands and is less visited. Both are good options if you're staying longer than 3 days.

🤿 Coron Attractions

Kayangan Lake The most photographed spot in Coron — and arguably all of Palawan. A short 10–15 minute hike up limestone stairs leads to a viewpoint overlooking the lake, then you descend to swim in crystal-clear, brackish water surrounded by towering karst walls.

Cost: ₱300 ($5) entry (included in Coron Ultimate Tour)
Hours: Open daily, best visited early morning before tour groups arrive (before 8am)

Twin Lagoon Two lagoons separated by a narrow opening in the rock. At high tide, you swim through a small gap; at low tide, you can walk. Kayaks are available to rent. The water is so clear you can see the limestone formations beneath the surface.

Cost: ₱300 ($5) entry (included in Coron Ultimate Tour)

Barracuda Lake Famous among divers for its dramatic thermocline — the water temperature drops from 28°C to 24°C just a few meters down, and visibility is extraordinary. Snorkelers will also enjoy it, though the best experience is scuba diving.

Cost: ₱200 ($3.50) entry
Activity: Diving (~$35–45/dive), snorkeling (free with own gear)

Siete Pecados Marine Park Seven small islands surrounded by vibrant coral reefs. Excellent snorkeling with a chance to see clownfish, parrotfish, and sea turtles. The currents can be strong, so it's best for confident swimmers.

Cost: ₱100 ($1.75) entry

Mt. Tapyas Coron's iconic 710-step climb to a massive cross overlooking the town and bay. The staircase is well-maintained and takes 20–30 minutes to summit. Sunset is the best time to go — the views over Coron Bay and the surrounding islands are breathtaking.

Cost: Free
Tip: Bring water and go 30 minutes before sunset

🌊 Puerto Princesa Attractions

Puerto Princesa Underground River A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the longest navigable underground rivers in the world. You'll board a paddleboat and enter a 4.3km cave system filled with massive limestone formations, stalactites, and thousands of bats. The cave opens to the South China Sea.

Cost: ₱500–700 ($9–12) for the boat tour + ₱150 ($2.50) environmental fee + ₱75 ($1.30) audio guide
Duration: About 1 hour inside the cave; half-day trip from Puerto Princesa
Booking: Permits are required and limited to 900 visitors per day. Book through your hotel or the PPUR office at least 1–2 days in advance. Walk-ins are not guaranteed.
Getting there: 1.5–2 hours from Puerto Princesa by van or tricycle to Sabang

Honda Bay Island Hopping A popular day trip from Puerto Princesa visiting three islands: Cowrie Island, Starfish Island, and Luli Island (which appears and disappears with the tide). It's more relaxed than the El Nido tours — think white sand, clear water, and grilled seafood lunches.

Cost: ₱1,100–1,700 ($20–30) per person, includes lunch and boat
Duration: Full day (7am–3pm)
Book via: Klook: Honda Bay Island Hopping

🐠 Diving & Special Experiences

Tubbataha Reef National Park One of the best dive sites in the world, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the Sulu Sea, about 10–12 hours by boat from Puerto Princesa. The reef is home to over 600 species of fish, 360 species of coral, and regular sightings of whale sharks, manta rays, and turtles.

When: Liveaboard trips run April to June only (calm seas)
Cost: $2,000–3,000 for a 5–7 day liveaboard
Operators: Discovery Fleet, Solitude One, Philippines Aggressor
Requirements: Advanced Open Water certification minimum

For more diving recommendations across Southeast Asia, check out our Best Dive Sites in Southeast Asia.

Getting Around Palawan

Tricycles

The backbone of local transport. Tricycles are motorbikes with sidecars that zip around town and to nearby beaches. Always negotiate or ask your hotel for the going rate before hopping in.

Short rides in town: ₱20–50 ($0.35–0.90)
Nacpan Beach from El Nido: ₱300–500 ($5–9) round trip
Mt. Tapyas from Coron town: ₱50–100 ($0.90–1.80) round trip

Vans & Shared Transfers

For longer distances, shared vans are the way to go. The Puerto Princesa to El Nido route is the most popular.

Puerto Princesa → El Nido: ₱700–1,100 ($12–20), 5–6 hours
Book online through Klook, 12Go.asia, or your guesthouse
Departures: Regular throughout the day, starting from 5am
Private vans are available for ₱3,500–5,000 ($60–90)

Motorbike Rental

Available in El Nido and Coron for independent exploration. A great way to reach Nacpan Beach or explore Coron's coastal road at your own pace.

Cost: ₱450–700 ($8–12) per day
Requirements: Valid motorcycle license and international driving permit recommended
Tip: Roads can be rough — inspect the bike before renting and take photos of any damage

Ferries & Boats

El Nido → Coron: Montenegro Lines fastcraft, 3–4 hours, ₱1,400–1,800 ($25–35)
Island-hopping tours: Book through Klook, your hotel, or directly on the beach
Bangka boats (traditional outriggers) are used for all tours

Domestic Flights

AirSwift operates flights between El Nido and Manila/Cebu. If you're short on time and don't want the 5–6 hour van ride, flying is worth the splurge.

💡 Pro tip: Download Grab before you arrive — it works in Puerto Princesa but has limited availability in El Nido and Coron.

Food & Drink in Palawan

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tamilok (Woodworm) Palawan's most infamous delicacy — it's actually a shipworm, not a true worm. Served raw with vinegar and chili, it tastes like a mild oyster. You'll find it at beachside stalls and on restaurant menus. Dare to try it? It's a rite of passage.

Kinilaw (Filipino Ceviche) Fresh fish cured in vinegar, calamansi, ginger, and chili. It's refreshing, tangy, and perfect on a hot day. Every local restaurant makes their own version.

Fresh Seafood Palawan is a seafood lover's paradise. Grilled lapu-lapu (grouper), prawns, squid, and crab are available at every market and beachfront restaurant. Head to the Palawan Public Market in Puerto Princesa for the freshest catches — you buy the seafood and nearby stalls will cook it for you for a small fee.

Lechon (Roasted Pig) Crispy-skinned, slow-roasted whole pig. You'll find it at celebrations and local eateries. A serving with rice costs around ₱150–200 ($3–4).

El Nido Restaurants

The Alternative — Healthy, organic-focused menu with great smoothie bowls and vegan options. Budget ₱200–400 ($4–7) per meal.
Trattoria Altrove — The best Italian food in El Nido, with wood-fired pizza and handmade pasta. Always packed, so arrive early. Budget ₱350–600 ($6–10).
Happiness Beach Bar — Beachfront bar with good food, cold beers, and a relaxed vibe. Perfect for sunset drinks.

Coron Restaurants

La Sirenetta — Floating restaurant on the bay with fresh seafood and beautiful views. Try the grilled squid. Budget ₱300–500 ($5–9).
Kawayanan Grill — Local favorite for grilled meats and seafood at fair prices. Budget ₱150–300 ($3–5).
Santino's Grill — Popular with tourists for Filipino comfort food and generous portions.

Budget Guide

Meal Type	Cost (USD)	Cost (PHP)
Street food / local eatery	$2–4	₱110–220
Mid-range restaurant	$6–12	₱330–670
Seafood feast (market)	$5–10	₱280–560
Beer	$1–2	₱50–110
Fruit shake	$1–2	₱50–100

For more Filipino food recommendations, see our guide to Best Street Food in the Philippines.

Day Trips & Multi-Day Trips

Honda Bay from Puerto Princesa

A relaxed island-hopping day trip visiting Cowrie Island, Starfish Island, and Luli Island. Great for families and anyone who wants a less demanding alternative to El Nido's tours.

Cost: ₱1,100–1,700 ($20–30), full day
Book: Klook: Honda Bay Island Hopping

El Nido to Coron (or Reverse) by Fastcraft

The ferry route between El Nido and Coron doubles as one of the most scenic boat rides in the Philippines. Some operators stop at remote islands along the way.

Standard fastcraft: 3–4 hours, ₱1,400–1,800 ($25–35)
Premium/fast ferry (BGI): 2.5–3 hours, ₱2,500–3,000 ($45–55)
Schedule: Departs daily at 6am–8am (check current schedules as they change seasonally)

Calauit Safari Park

A wildlife sanctuary on Busuanga Island (near Coron) established in the 1970s when giraffes and zebras were imported from Africa. Today, the park is home to giraffes, zebras, Calamian deer, and various endemic species.

Getting there: 2–3 hours by boat from Coron town
Cost: Tour packages around ₱1,500–2,500 ($27–45), includes boat, guide, and lunch
Tip: Book through a Coron tour operator — the logistics are complicated to arrange independently

Port Barton

A laid-back beach town between Puerto Princesa and El Nido that's gaining popularity as an off-the-beaten-path alternative. Pristine beaches, island hopping with no crowds, and a fraction of the tourist numbers.

Getting there: Van from Puerto Princesa (3–4 hours, ₱400–600 / $7–11) or El Nido (3–4 hours, ₱800–1,000 / $14–18)
Vibe: Think El Nido 15 years ago — basic guesthouses, a few restaurants, beautiful beaches

Palawan Travel Tips

Visas

Most nationalities get 30 days free on arrival in the Philippines. No visa needed for citizens of the US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and most ASEAN countries. Extensions of up to 36 months total are possible through Philippine immigration offices (₱3,130 / ~$55 per 2-month extension).

Currency

The local currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). As of 2026, the exchange rate is approximately $1 USD = ₱56 PHP. ATMs are available in Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron, but they sometimes run out of cash during peak season. Bring enough cash.

SIM Cards & Connectivity

Buy a Globe or Smart SIM card at the airport or any convenience store. A tourist data SIM with 30GB+ data costs ₱100–300 ($2–5). Globe generally has better coverage in Palawan. WiFi is available at most hotels and restaurants but can be slow.

Power & Electricity

Power outages (brownouts) are common in El Nido and Coron, especially during peak tourist season when demand exceeds supply. Bring a power bank and charge devices whenever you can. Most outlets are Type A/B (same as the US) — 220V.

Budget Breakdown

Travel Style	Daily Budget (USD)	What You Get
Budget	$30–50	Hostel dorm, local food, public transport, 1–2 tours
Mid-range	$80–150	Private room, mix of local & restaurant meals, private tours
Luxury	$200–500+	Resort, fine dining, private boat charters, flights between destinations

Environmental Fees

Palawan collects environmental and ecotourism fees at most attractions. These are mandatory and typically cost ₱50–200 ($1–3.50) per destination. Some tours include them in the package price, but always confirm.

What to Pack

Reef-safe sunscreen — Palawan strictly enforces marine protection
Dry bag — essential for island hopping
Snorkel mask — many tours provide basic ones, but a good mask makes a huge difference
Light, quick-dry clothing — it's hot and humid year-round
Insect repellent — mosquitoes are present, especially at dawn and dusk
Waterproof phone case — you'll want photos from the boat
Motion sickness medication — boat rides can be rough

FAQ

Is Palawan safe for tourists?

Yes, Palawan is generally very safe for tourists. The main towns of Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron are well-traveled and tourist-friendly. Petty theft is rare but can happen — use common sense with valuables. The southern parts of Palawan (near the Malaysia border) have had security concerns historically, but tourist areas in the north are unaffected.

Do I need a visa for Palawan?

Most Western, Asian, and Latin American nationalities don't need a visa for stays up to 30 days. Check the Philippine Bureau of Immigration website for your country's specific requirements. Extensions are easy to obtain at immigration offices.

How many days do you need in Palawan?

For a satisfying trip, plan at least 7–10 days:

Puerto Princesa: 1–2 days (Underground River + Honda Bay)
El Nido: 3–4 days (2–3 island tours + Nacpan Beach)
Coron: 2–3 days (lakes, wrecks, Mt. Tapyas)
Add 2–3 more days if you want to visit Port Barton or do a liveaboard dive trip

Is El Nido or Coron better?

It depends on what you want. El Nido has more dramatic scenery — towering karsts, hidden lagoons, and beautiful beaches. It's also more developed with more restaurants and nightlife. Coron offers world-class wreck diving, stunning lakes, and a more laid-back vibe. If you have time, do both — the ferry between them is a scenic trip. For a detailed comparison, see our guide El Nido vs Coron — Which is Better?.

What is the best time to visit Palawan?

The best time to visit Palawan is during the dry season, November through May. December to February offers the most comfortable weather, while March to May has fewer crowds. Avoid June through October due to heavy rains and potential typhoons.

How do you get around Palawan without a car?

Tricycles, shared vans, and ferries are the main forms of transport. Tricycles handle short distances around town. Vans connect Puerto Princesa to El Nido (5–6 hours). Ferries connect El Nido to Coron (3–4 hours). Motorbike rental is also available for around ₱450–700 ($8–12) per day.

Is Palawan expensive?

Palawan can be very budget-friendly. Backpackers can get by on $30–50/day (hostel, local food, a few tours). Mid-range travelers will spend $80–150/day (private rooms, restaurant meals, private tours). Luxury resorts push into the $200–500+ range. The biggest expense is typically island-hopping tours ($25–40 each).

Can you drink tap water in Palawan?

No — stick to bottled or filtered water. Bottled water is cheap (₱15–25 / $0.30–0.45 per liter). Many hotels and guesthouses provide free drinking water. Bring a reusable bottle to reduce plastic waste.

Do I need to book island hopping tours in advance?

During peak season (December–February), yes — especially for El Nido Tour A, which sells out regularly. Book through Klook or your hotel 1–2 days ahead. During shoulder season (March–May), you can usually book the day before or even the same morning. For Coron, booking a day ahead is sufficient year-round.

What should I pack for Palawan?

Essentials include reef-safe sunscreen, a dry bag, snorkel gear, light quick-dry clothing, a power bank (brownouts are common), insect repellent, waterproof phone case, and motion sickness medication. Don't forget your passport for domestic flights and a copy of your travel insurance.

Last updated: April 2026. Prices and schedules are approximate and may change. Always verify current rates and availability before your trip.

Exploring more of the Philippines? Check out these related Waddat guides:

Palawan Itinerary: 5 Days in Paradise — The complete day-by-day plan
El Nido vs Coron — Which Palawan destination is right for you?
Davao Travel Guide — The Philippines' most livable city
Southeast Asia 1-Month Itinerary — The ultimate regional adventure

Untitled