palawan travel itinerary

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Planning the ultimate palawan itinerary [1-2 week guides].

Palawan is one of the many islands in The Philippines and it’s bursting with beauty, and amazing things to do. I'd never seen water so blue before I visited here, and it will truly always be one of the best destinations I've visited in the entire world. Delicious food, rum, beautiful coral, friendly locals, what is not to love!

If you’re planning a trip to Palawan, then keep reading for lots of useful information on planning the perfect Palawan itinerary! 

Travellerspoint

Why Visit Palawan? 

Palawan is one of my favourite islands in The Philippines for a variety of reasons. Firstly, it’s super easy to get around , it’s surrounded by the most magical water I’ve ever swam in. It’s also got some of the best dive and snorkel spots in the world and you will constantly be AMAZED at the beauty it offers. 

If you’ve only got time to visit one area of The Philippines then I suggest Palawan as your destination. 

There are actually A LOT of islands and areas that make up “Palawan”, but I’ve only included places we actually visited on this Palawan itinerary. If you wanted to see it “all”, you’d need a lot of time. This itinerary will allow you to see the highlights! 

Where to include on your Palawan Itinerary 

There are a number of amazing areas and islands that make up Palawan that you should include on your Palawan itinerary. I’m going to list them below, then go into detail about planning a Palawan itinerary that fits the time you have to explore. 

This is up there with my favourite area in all of The Philippines. Coron town itself is a little run down, but it still has some amazing things to do and see, such as, hidden beaches, hot springs, waterfalls and Coron's answer to the Hollywood Sign, “The Coron Sign”. 

So it’s worth visiting for that, but when you visit Coron you simply have to visit “Coron island” and this is typically done on an island hopping tour, But you can actually stay on a houseboat in the middle of the island that brings you a unique opportunity to literally step into paradise off a boat, snorkel to the popular tourist sites (before anyone else has arrived, like the cleanest lake in Asia: Kayangan Lake) and simply be in awe at the surroundings. 

It’s one of the best things we did in The Philippines and you can read about the experience here. Coron is also famous for its diving spots and wrecks, but we aren't divers so we didn’t experience this. 

Things to do in Coron

• Visit the Manquit Hot Springs 
• Visit Bali secret beach 
• Hike the Coron sign 
• Take an island hopping tour 
• Go snorkelling and/or diving 

El Nido is one of the most famous areas in Palawan, and The Philippines in general. It’s a backpackers hub thanks to it’s amazing island hopping tours which allow you to explore some amazing places and do some awesome things (like kayaking down one of the biggest and most beautiful lagoons). El NIdo also has fantastic waterfalls, and is home to the most beautiful beach in Asia: Nacpan beach which is truly stunning! 

Read : The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Nacpan Beach In El Nido 

Things to do in El Nido

• Visit Nacpan Beach 
• Drink at the beach bars 
• Chase waterfalls 

Port Barton 

This is one of the most up and coming places in Palawan, it literally only got 24 hour electricity the year we arrived (2019!), but you can tell it’s going to be super popular in the coming years. Again it showcases some amazing island hopping tours and the chance to swim with giant turtles (which is fantastic), but there are also some of the most stunning sunsets I’ve ever witnessed on offer, amazing waterfalls to discover and they even hold a full moon party! 

Things to do in Port Barton

• Swim with turtles
• Enjoy the epic sunsets 
• Have a massage on the beach 
• Explore “white beach”

Puerto Princesa 

This is often one of the final stops on a Palawan itinerary and it was actually Brad and I’s least favourite place out of all the areas in Palawan we visited. BUT, we didn’t do some of the most popular things to do there, such as, the famous underground river tours, and the island hopping opportunities.

We did head off on our moped and discover some pretty cool beaches, but they weren’t as beautiful as the ones in El Nido or Port Barton, but they did have epic views! 

Either way, I still think it’s worth visiting and you should definitely do the things we didn’t.

Things to do in Puerto Princesa 

• Take an underground river tour 
• Find hidden beaches 
• Dip in hot springs 
• Visit the boardwalk for dinner 

Now that we’ve established the core destinations on this Palawan itinerary, it’s time to put it into numbers! 

All my Palawan itineraries start in Coron and end in Puerto Princesa. The reason for this is that it’s easy to get to Coron via an overnight boat from Manila, or a short flight from Manila, and Puerto Princesea is home to an airport that will take you to where you need to go next. 

2 week Palawan Itinerary

If you’ve got two weeks in Palawan then you’ve got time to see it all and see it well. This is my suggested itinerary below. 

• Coron mainland: 2 nights 
• Coron island ( houseboat ): 2 nights  ‍
• El Nido: 5 nights ‍
• Port Barton: 3 nights  
• Puerto Princesa: 2 nights 

This 2 week Palawan itinerary will allow you to see all the sights on mainland Coron, and experience the beauty of Coron island and all the related sights. It will also allow you to do all 4 island hopping tours in El Nido, as well as a full day to see all the sights on El Nido itself too. If you only wanted 3 island hopping tours, you could easily spend 2 days sightseeing El Nido itself too. 

10 Day Palawan Itinerary

We actually spent around 10 days on Palawan, so this Palawan itinerary is pretty close to what we did! 

• Coron mainland: 1 night  ‍
• Coron Island ( houseboat ): 2 nights  ‍
• El Nido: 3 nights  ‍
• Port Barton: 2 nights  ‍

This is pretty much what we did, but I think we had about 12 days, so we may have had an extra night on Coron mainland! 

This 10 day Palawan Itinerary will allow you to see all the main of Coron, some of the El Nido tours and the beauty of Port Barton and Puerto Princesea. What I will suggest is, if you are short on time in El Nido and only want to do one or two tours, the tour A should definitely make it on your El Nido itinerary!  

1 week Palawan Itinerary

One week in Palawan is going to be short and sweet and you’ll need to move quickly. So opt for fast boats, or flights when possible. 

• Coron mainland: 1 night ‍
• Coron Island ( house boat ): 1 night  ‍
• El Nido: 2 nights  ‍
• Port Barton: 2 nights ‍
• Puerto Princesa: 1 night  

If you decided you just wanted to focus on El Nido and Coron, then you could skip out the rest as both those areas have airports you can fly to and from. However, Port Barton is a gem! 

The beauty of all these Palawan itineraries listed above is that they can be reversed! You can start in Puerto Princesa and end in Coron...it won’t make too much of a difference to your plans. 

Getting Around Palawan

Getting around Palawan is super easy and I’m going to make it super easy for you too. You’ve got a few options: 

• Flying: You can fly at different stages of your Palawan adventure. You can fly between Coron and El Nido, but I don’t think it’s worth it….but you can check Skyscanner for prices!
• Ferry : Boats are your new best friend with planning a Palawan trip. You can get ferries from Coron to El Nido which you can book right here! 
• Shuttles: Once you’re on the mainland of Palawan, you can get shuttles to and from various places. For example you can get a shuttle from El Nido to Port Barton, Port Barton to Puerto Princesea. 
• Moped : When you’re in Coron mainland, El Nido and Port Barton, you can rent out mopeds for around 500 pesos per day to get yourself from A to B. This is great if you like planning your own itineraries! 

Book your shuttle from El Nido to Port Barton here. 

Book your shuttle from Port Barton to Puerto Princesa here. 

Book your shuttle from El Nido to Puerto Princesa here. 

Budget for Palawan 

You’ll be pleased to hear that The Philippines in general are fairly cheap as is Palawan. Accommodation is not as cheap as other areas in Asia, but it’s still cheap, however accommodation in The Philippines isn't as nice as some places we visited, but it does the job! 

Check out my Backpacking The Philippines Travel Guide for more information on budgets!

Food is cheap too, and rum is excellent and cheap! Shuttles between areas and boats are also reasonable, so to enjoy a comfortable experience in Palawan I would suggest a budget of around $35 a day. You could do it cheaper, and more expensive if you’re doing more tours…

Speaking of tours…

It’s actually cheaper to book your island hopping tours in El Nido and Coron online...I don’t know why! 

But I’ve listed them below anyway..

• El Nido Tour A
• El Nido Tour B
• El Nido Tour C
• El Nido Tour D
• Coron Tour A 
• Coron Tour B
• Coron Tour C 
• Coron Ultimate Tour 

Island hopping in Port Barton: Book here

Where to stay in Palawan 

We’ve actually produced a range of guides which will help you choose your hotels and hostels in Palawan, but in general we tend to use booking.com to book all our hotels. You can check out our individual guides below for some more planning inspiration…

• ‍ Where to stay in El Nido  ‍
• Where to stay in Coron

So there you go, my guide to planning the ultimate Palawan itinerary. I hope this guide has proved useful and hopefully helps make planning your Philippines adventures a little easier. But you’re going to LOVE Palawan, and once you leave, you’ll already be planning your return!

Read more: 

• 4 week itinerary for The Philippines
• Best Places to Visit in The Philippines
• 50 awesome things to do in The Philippines

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Palawan Itinerary: EPIC Things to Do In Palawan, Philippines (For ANY Length Trip)

By: Author Mitch Glass

Posted on Last updated: March 22, 2023

Headed to Palawan, Philippines?

If you’re looking for an epic Palawan itinerary (for any length trip), you’re in the right place.

The wifey and I just finished an action-packed 3-week backpacking trip to Palawan, so we know exactly the best places to go (and where to avoid).

So whether you’re looking for the best things to do in Palawan for 3 days or 3 weeks, I’ve got ya covered.

All you have to do is choose the length of your trip in the table of contents below, and I’ll show all the best Palawan island activities you can squeeze in. 

***Even if you have a short trip, I recommend reading the full 3-week Palawan itinerary first where I’ll cover all the details. From there, we’ll gradually cut things out until we’ve widdled it down to a quickie 3-day trip.

Table of Contents

Palawan Tourist Spots Map

Day 1-3 : puerto princesa, day 4-8 : sabang, day 9-13 : port barton, day 14-18 : el nido, day 18-21 : coron, here’s the 2 week palawan itinerary i’d follow:, speedy 10-day palawan itinerary to all four destinations:, jam-packed palawan 7 day itinerary:, here’s how to spend 6 days in palawan (for non-divers):, el nido 5 day itinerary:, here’s how i’d do a 4-day el nido itinerary:, here’s how i’d plan a 3 day el nido itinerary:, best things to do in palawan philippines recap, palawan itinerary 3 weeks.

Wondering how many days in Palawan is enough? Personally, I think 3 weeks is the perfect time to explore everything this amazing Philippine island has to offer without feeling rushed or getting exhausted from cramming too many activities in each day. It also gives you flexibility for bad weather days.

Palawan is a long skinny island, so to make the most of your time it’s best to arrive on one side of the island, and depart from the other (vs. flying in and out of the same city).

Here’s what I mean…

On one end of the route, you have Puerto Princesa. On the other end, you have El Nido and Coron. We flew into Puerto Princesa, traveled north, then left out of Coron (but you can do the opposite as well). 

To keep things simple, I’ll just share the route we took.

One quick thing before we get started. If you haven’t created your budget yet, make sure to grab our Philippines expenses breakdown below. It’ll help give you an idea on how much your trip will cost (as well as some tips to save money). And if you want a detailed packing list for Philippines , we’ve got that too! Also, don’t plan your trip without reading through this ultimate Philippines bucket list . There are some secret spots in there that I wish I would’ve know about…we accidently skipped right over them! 😓

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Is it worth staying in Puerto Princesa? Well, if you have 3 weeks in Palawan, I don’t see a need to rush. You can take your time, ease into the culture, get yourself set up, and finalize your Palawan plan. (Plus, you’ll have PLENTY of beach days ahead…trust me).

• Pick up a SIM card at the airport (more convenient, more expensive) or SM Mall (less convenient, less expensive). Get settled in and accustomed to island life. 
• Take the city tour to see all the main Puerto Princesa tourist spots in one day
• Try the firefly tour at night (we didn’t get a chance to go, but heard mixed reviews) If you’re feeling crazy, eat some crocodile, a traditional Filipino dish mostly found on Palawan
• Finalize your Palawan game plan
• Hit up the SM Mall to stock up on anything you need (and savor your last taste of modern civilization for a few weeks)
• Stop at the Underground River Office to buy your permit
• Take bus or van to Sabang

Pro tip: Many Palawan guides online warn that you won’t have internet access in many destinations on the island. We were worried about this so we booked all our accommodation ahead of time before leaving Puerto Princesa. Turns out, this wasn’t necessary at all. We were able to stay connected everywhere we went with our Globe data plan. I was even able to get all my online work done in each place. In retrospect, I wouldn’t have planned so far ahead in order to have more flexibility at each stop.

Most people head to Sabang as a day trip from Puerto Princesa to do the Underground River boat tour. Instead of a day trip, I HIGHLY recommend staying in Sabang for a few nights instead. It’s truly a hidden gem. Unlike other popular Palawan destinations, you’ll have this place practically to yourself. We only stayed for two nights, but wish we could have extended for a couple more.

• Arrive in the afternoon, get settled, and pick up dinner on the beach
• Underground River Tour

• Day trip to Isla Rita – This is pretty off-the-beaten-path. See if your accommodation can help you organize your trip.
• Beach Day at Sabang Beach – Pro tip: Head to the end of the beach, we had it all to ourselves!
• Zip-lining, jungle hiking, waterfall hunting, kayaking, and/or trip to the mangroves – There’s TONS to do around Sabang. We didn’t have time to do any but met a couple who stayed busy for an entire week exploring different off-the-beaten-path sites.

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• Van to Port Barton

How to get to Sabang from Puerto Princesa? Grab a tricycle to the Puerto Princesa bus terminal, then find the van going to Sabang (we used the Lexxus van company). There are also buses available that leave once per day in the morning. The trip from Puerto Princesa to Sabang takes 2-ish hours.

Update : You can also book a van online here . In retrospect, I would’ve bought our tickets online ahead of time. It would’ve saved us over an hour sitting around waiting for the next van to leave. (It also looks like it would’ve been a bit cheaper).

Where to stay in Sabang, Palawan? We stayed at Cafe Sabang . It’s pretty basic, but it was super cheap and got the job done. Plus, the manager is an ex-chef from Manila and whips up a delicious dinner. If you’re looking for something a bit more comfortable (and still reasonably priced), check out Hill Myna Beach Cottages.

During your Palawan itinerary research, you’ll probably read that Port Barton is the new, less touristy version of El Nido. I was worried that since everyone is writing about this “secret destination” that it would be crowded and overrated.

I was wrong.

If you have the time, Port Barton should definitely not be missed.

• Arrive in Port Barton and get settled.
• Book island hopping tour for following day (go with Coconutz Tours and you won’t regret it!).
• Dinner on the beach (BBQ chicken was my fav)
• Island Hopping Tour
• Ask about Island Camping Tour
• Rent motorbike and go beach hopping
• Kayak on the Inandeng River
• Check out the Bato ni Ningning view point

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• Island Camping with Coconutz Tours – We didn’t have time to do this, but it looks awesome!
• Return from Island Camping
• Port Barton Beach day
• Van to El Nido

How to get to Port Barton from Sabang? To travel from Sabang to Port Barton, just buy a van ticket near the docks (or to save time, book online with 12go.asia . There are no vans that go directly from Sabang to San Vicente, so you’ll have to switch vans during your trip (transfer is included in price). Total trip time takes around 4.5 hours.

Where to stay in Port Barton, Palawan? There’s lots of options for places to stay in Port Barton. We chose a cheap private room a block away from the beach and liked it (again, you won’t spend much time in your room anyway). There are also some popular hostels as well as more fancy beachfront resorts .

Out of all the things to do in Palawan, El Nido is the main attraction—home to the iconic limestone cliffs and crystal blue lagoons on everyone’s Palawan bucket list. And while it is absolutely stunning, it’s also way more crowded and touristy than Sabang and Port Barton (i.e. if you want photos without other people in them, you’re gonna have to work it). That said, no matter how many days in Palawan you have, El Nido needs to be on your list—it’s truly one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Philippines . 

• Arrive in El Nido and get settled in
• Check the weather. Whichever day looks the best, schedule Tour C for that day (some stops can only be accessed when the sea is calm).
• Book your tours for the week (recommended A and C). Go Paradise was our favorite tour company (their lunch was tastier than the others).
• Corong Corong for sunset

• Tour A or C
• Spend the night at Nacpan Beach—one of my favorite places to visit in El Nido, Palawan
• Relaxing beach day at Nacpan
• For adventure-seekers, nearby there’s a zip line and huge water slide that launches you high in the air
• Return to El Nido Town to sleep
• Early bedtime to wake up early for the ferry

• Flight or ferry to Coron Island

How to get to El Nido from Port Barton? Buy your van ticket online in advance at 12go.asia to save a trip to the bus station. The van from Port Barton to El Nido take around five hours. 

Where to stay in El Nido, Palawan? We spent two nights on Nacpan Beach at Mad Monkey Hostel . This is a great spot to party, but if you’re looking for something more relaxed, I’d check out Seaside Hue Resort . We walked past and it looked super quiet away from the crowds (for a similar price). In El Nido town, we stayed at Frendz Hostel , one of the most popular hostels in town. If you want to stay in the popular places, I recommend booking El Nido accommodation at least a few days ahead of time. We talked to MANY people who wanted to stay at Mad Monkey and Frendz, but it was all booked up. Lastly, if you’re in the mood for some privacy, there are also some very cheap Airbnbs in El Nido .

Coron is the last stop on your 3 week Palawan travel itinerary. Like El Nido, Coron has many different island hopping tours to choose from. In my opinion, they are almost equally as stunning as El Nido (at least the tour I did). The two towns are very similar, but El Nido is known more for its island hopping tours, and Coron is famous for spectacular scuba diving (and a popular stop for liveaboard s in the Philippines ).

That said, if you have time, visit them both!

• Arrive and take a siesta (the boat makes you sleepy)
• Book tour for following day (recommended: Coron Island Super Ultimate Tour)
• Book scuba for following day if you’re a diver
• Coron Island Super Ultimate Tour

• Scuba diving (or another tour if you’re not a diver—there are many to choose from!)
• Boat or flight back to Puerto Princesa or Manila ( Pro tip : Don’t schedule your boat trip on the day of a typhoon…learned that lesson the hard way).

How to get to Coron from El Nido? You have two options: You can take a ferry from El Nido to Coron (cheaper) or you can fly (more expensive). We chose the four-hour ferry ride to save money. Again, buying a ticket is quick and easy on 12go.asia .

Pro tip: When you arrive at the docks in Coron, you’ll get bombarded by tricycle drivers trying to charge 5x the normal price. If your accommodation is in the main town, don’t pay more than 50 PHP (this is still 2x more than locals pay). They’ll laugh at you and pretend you’re crazy, but just keep walking towards town until someone gives in. (Check out these Philippine’s travel tips for a bunch more handy info we wish we would’ve known before our trip).

Where to stay in Coron, Palawan? We stayed at Happy Camper Hostel and loved it. Super cheap, made some good friends, and the owner treats you like family. For more privacy, check out some of these affordable Airbnbs .

Palawan Itinerary 2 Weeks

*The 2-week Palawan backpacking itinerary is a condensed version of the 3-week itinerary. Make sure to scan through the 3-week itinerary above for more detailed day-to-day recommendations for each destination.

If you have 2 weeks in the Philippines , you still have enough time to see all the main stops of the 3-week itinerary—you’ll just have to move a bit faster and prioritize your favorite activities at each stop. 

DAY 1: Spend one night in Puerto Princesa to buy a SIM card, make a plan, and stock up on any last minute supplies

DAY 2-3: Two nights in Sabang to see the Underground River and chill at the beach

DAY 4-5: Two nights in Port Barton to do the Coconutz island hopping tour and chill at the beach

DAY 6, 7, 8, 9, 10: Four nights in El Nido to do Tour A, Tour C, and rent a motorbike to go beach hopping for the day

DAY 11, 12, 13, 14: Four nights in Coron to do the Coron Island Super Ultimate Tour and some scuba diving

Palawan Itinerary 10 Days

*The 10 day Palawan island itinerary is a condensed version of the 3-week itinerary. Make sure to scan through the 3-week itinerary above for more detailed day-to-day recommendations for each destination.

With 10 days in Palawan, you can still hit all four destinations, but you’ll have to do it at warp speed. If you want a more relaxing trip, consider choosing three of the four.

DAY 1: Arrive in Puerto Princesa in the morning, buy a SIM in the airport, head straight to Sabang and spend the afternoon at the beach

DAY 2: Underground River in the morning, van to Port Barton in the afternoon

DAY 3: Coconutz Island hopping tour in Port Barton

DAY 4: Arrive in El Nido and book tours

DAY 6: Tour A or C

DAY 7: Visit Nacpan Beach or do second tour

DAY 8: Ferry or Flight to Coron, Book tours

DAY 9: Scuba or Coron Island Super Ultimate Tour

DAY 10: Morning scuba or half day tour, Evening flight

Palawan Itinerary 7 Days

*The 1-week Palawan trip itinerary is a condensed version of the 3-week itinerary. Make sure to scan through the 3-week itinerary above for more detailed day-to-day recommendations for each destination.

Squeezing everything into a 7 day Palawan itinerary is tough. I recommend choosing just two or three of the destinations described above (making sure to include El Nido).

If it were me, I’d just choose two destinations and spend more time in each one (vs. wasting precious vacay time in transit every other day). But since many like to cram in as many places as possible, here’s how to do it:

DAY 1: Morning arrival in Puerto Princesa, buy SIM card in airport, and leave straight from Puerto Princesa to Port Barton

DAY 2: Coconutz island hopping tour in Port Barton

DAY 3: Morning van to El Nido and book tours

DAY 4: Tour A or C

DAY 5: Nacpan Beach day, evening flight to Coron

DAY 6: Coron Island Super Ultimate Tour

DAY 7: Morning scuba diving or half-day tour, evening flight

Palawan Itinerary 6 Days

*The 6-day itinerary for Palawan, Philippines is a condensed version of the 3-week itinerary. Make sure to scan through the 3-week itinerary above for more detailed day-to-day recommendations for each destination.

There’s really only enough time for two destinations in a 6 day Palawan itinerary. If you’re not a scuba diver, I recommend El Nido and Port Barton. If you are a scuba diver, I’d go with Coron and El Nido (3 days in each).

DAY 1: Morning arrival in El Nido, book tours, rent a bike and explore nearby beaches for the afternoon

DAY 2: Tour A or C

DAY 3: Tour A or C (or Nacpan Beach day)

DAY 4: Morning beach hopping around El Nido, Afternoon van to Port Barton, Book tour

DAY 5: Coconutz island hopping tour

DAY 6: Morning van to El Nido, Evening flight

Palawan Itinerary 5 Days

*The 5-day Palawan backpacking itinerary is a condensed version of the 3-week itinerary. Make sure to scan through the 3-week itinerary above for more detailed day-to-day recommendations for each destination.

With 5 days in Palawan, you might be able to squeeze in two destinations, but you’ll waste a lot of time in transit. There are plenty of things to do in El Nido, Palawan to keep you busy for 5 days, so I’d focus your time there.

( Note: If you want to fit in two stops, you’re trip will be a lot more expensive. You’d have to fly into El Nido for a couple nights, then fly to Coron for a couple nights, then fly out of Coron—or vice versa.)

DAY 1: Arrive in El Nido and go straight to Nacpan Beach for the night

DAY 2: Spend day doing activities on and around Nacpan beach, then return to El Nido Town to book tours and sleep

DAY 3: Tour A or C

DAY 5: Beach hopping or hiking in the morning, Evening flight

Palawan Itinerary 4 Days

*The 4-day Palawan backpacking itinerary is a condensed version of the 3-week itinerary. Make sure to scan through the 3-week itinerary above for more detailed day-to-day recommendations for each destination.

If you’ve got 4 days in Palawan, I’d definitely stick to just one destination—El Nido (unless you’re a diver, in which case I’d recommend Coron).

DAY 1: Arrive in El Nido and check the weather. Book Tour C for whichever day looks best (some Tour C stops can only be accessed when the sea is calm). Book Tour A for the other day.

DAY 4: Rent motorbike and go beach hopping, hiking, and waterfall hunting; Evening flight

Palawan Itinerary 3 Days

*The 3-day Palawan backpacking itinerary is a condensed version of the 3-week itinerary. Make sure to scan through the 3-week itinerary above for more detailed day-to-day recommendations for each destination.

With so much to see, this is a toughy. But if you absolutely can’t stay longer, here is what to do in Palawan for 3 days.

If you want scuba diving, go to Coron. Otherwise, El Nido is the place to be.

You simply can’t go to Palawan without experiencing El Nido—no matter how touristy it has become.

DAY 1: Arrive in El Nido and book a tour for the next day (I recommend Tour A or C. Tour A goes to the most popular places but is more crowded. Tour C is a teensy bit less crowded and is still spectacular).

DAY 2: Go on tour (and pray for sunshine!) 🌞

DAY 3: Rent a motorbike and go beach hopping. Don’t miss Nacpan Beach (about 40 min ride), it’s gorgeous! 

ALTERNATIVE DAY 3: If you loved your Day 2 Tour, you could do a different one on Day 3. Two boat tours back-to-back is a bit much for me though. (Also, if you have a flight, make sure you’ll be back in time).

Here’s a quick recap of everything we went over:

✔️If you have 2 or 3 weeks, make sure to visit Sabang, Port Barton, El Nido, and Coron ✔️If you have less than two weeks, be careful to not try to cram too much into your itinerary. You don’t want to spend half your trip in ferries and cramped vans. There is plenty to do in each stop to keep you occupied for at least a few days. ✔️Sabang and Port Barton are hidden gems with a relaxed vibe and less crowds. El Nido and Coron have more of a “WOW” factor, but you’ll have to share it with loads of other people (unless you opt for pricey private tours). ✔️Save yourself time, hassle, and (oftentimes) money by booking your transport ahead of time online . ✔️If you’re a diver, don’t miss Coron. If you’re not a diver, don’t miss El Nido.If you’re a diver, don’t miss Coron. If you’re not a diver, don’t miss El Nido. ✔️Lastly, prepare yourself for getting ripped off on every single tricycle ride! 🙂

And there you have it, folks! I hope you enjoy Palawan as much as I did!

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You Might Also Be Interested In: – 11 Amazingly Cheap Places To Visit in Philippines for Couples

Mitch is your typical nomadic backpacker. Or at least, he was . But after stopping in Colombia to take “one week” of salsa lessons, his life took a sharp left turn. He met a cute Colombian girl in dance class, fell in love, and got married. Over half a decade has passed since he left his career to travel the world as a digital nomad, and he’s never looked back.

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Ultimate Palawan Itinerary for 10 Days

Are you visiting Palawan for the first time and looking for the perfect Palawan Itinerary? We’ve put together the best Palawan Itinerary for first-time visitors.

Why visit Palawan? Its beautiful white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, impressive limestone rock formations, and amazing marine life will fascinate every visitor.

If there’s one place in the world we could return to at any time, it would be the tropical paradise of Palawan in the Philippines.

Our Palawan Travel Guide includes the best places to visit, how to get there, where to stay, and the best things to do in Palawan.

You’ll also find all the useful tips and information you need to plan your 10-day Palawan Itinerary.

Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through our link. This is a free way to support us and allow us to continue to create inspiring travel guides.

Best hotels in Puerto Princesa City

Best hotels in el nido, best hotels in coron, how to get to port barton, best hotels in port barton, no time to read now pin it.

Where is Palawan

The province of Palawan is located in the Mimaropa region of the Philippines, and its capital is Puerto Princesa.

Palawan Island is the largest island in the province of Palawan and the best destination in the Philippines.

The Best Time to Visit Palawan

The Philippines has a tropical climate with warm weather and very high humidity all year round.

Palawan has two seasons: a dry season from November to May and a rainy season from June to October.

Typhoons can also occur during the rainy season.

The best time to visit Palawan is from November to May during the dry season, as the scenery is beautiful and the weather is warm.

Recommended Post → El Nido Guide

The busiest and warmest months are from March to April. We did this Palawan Itinerary in April.

During the peak season, prices are higher, El Nido and Coron are very crowded, and ferry tickets can sell out quickly.

Get your Ferry Tickets.

The rainy season is ideal for those looking for budget prices or who want to avoid crowds. However, the island hopping tours may be canceled due to weather or sea conditions!

Don’t forget to buy travel insurance! We always choose  SafetyWing  for our travels.

How to Get to Palawan

You can easily get to Palawan by plane. Most people arrive first in Manila (the capital of the Philippines) and then take a flight to Puerto Princesa and start their Palawan Itinerary.

Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for the Philippines and apply for an e-visa online.

You can also travel from Cebu to Puerto Princesa, but you’ll probably get cheaper flights from Manila to Puerto Princesa.

• Puerto Princesa Airport: Puerto Princesa is the capital of the province of Palawan, about a 1.5-hour flight from Manila. This is the main airport on the island. Therefore, Puerto Princesa is the perfect place to start your Palawan Itinerary.
• El Nido Lio Airport: If you are looking for the quickest way to El Nido, you can fly there, but flights are overpriced.
• Francisco B. Reyes Airport: This airport is located on Busuanga Island, and flight tickets are expensive, but it is the fastest way to get to Coron.
• San Vicente Airport: Currently, the plane schedules are limited, and the price is high, but it is an option if you want to get to Port Barton quickly.

TIP Use  Skyscanner  to get cheap flights to Palawan.

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Palawan Itinerary for 10 Days

Day 1: arrive in puerto princesa city.

Start your Palawan Itinerary in Puerto Princesa.

The city doesn’t offer much to see and do, so most people will travel to El Nido after arriving and skip the city’s main attractions.

Just a 1.5-hour drive from the city is the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, one of the Philippines’ most beautiful natural attractions.

Buy an eSIM and data package for the Philippines.

After visiting this UNESCO World Heritage site, you can spend the afternoon relaxing in nearby Sabang village or take an island hopping tour in Honda Bay.

Book your Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour HERE.

TIP As visiting the Underground River is a full-day activity, add an extra day to your Palawan Itinerary.

• Luxury: Princesa Garden Island Resort and Spa
• Mid-Range: One Manalo Place or Panja Resort Palawan
• Budget: Cleon Villas Pension

Most travelers from Puerto Princesa take a minivan to El Nido. Many companies operate the shuttle service between the two cities, and  the minivan costs around 10 USD.

Get Minivan Tickets here.

The minivans usually take 5-6 hours to arrive at the Corong-Corong bus terminal, which is only a few minutes from El Nido town.

TIP Once you arrive in El Nido, book an island hopping tour for the next day.

Recommended Post → Best El Nido Island Hopping Tours

Day 2: Go on an El Nido Island Hopping Tour

Good morning El Nido! Start your Palawan Itinerary by discovering Bacuit Bay and taking one of the best El Nido island hopping tours.

On the boat tour, you can visit the surrounding islands, tropical beaches, stunning limestone formations, and some hidden lagoons.

Island hopping tours are the best things to do in El Nido , Palawan.

There are 4 El Nido tours to choose from: A, B, C, and D, each offering a different route and a wonderful experience. During the island hopping tour, you can swim, snorkel, rent a kayak, or sunbathe on the boat.

Looking for an unforgettable experience in Coron and El Nido? Book multi-day island expeditions through  Big Dream Boatman.

TIP Add an extra day to your Palawan Itinerary if you want to do two El Nido tours and explore the waterfalls in the area.

El Nido island hopping tours start from 1300 PHP (23 USD) , and we recommend you take the “A” tour or “D” tour. We did the “A” tour, which was a fantastic experience in the Philippines.

Check island hopping tour prices and availability  HERE.

The El Nido tours are approximately 7 hours long, starting in the morning around 8:30-9:30 AM and finishing between 4-5 PM.

See also → Best El Nido Island Hopping Tour

Day 3: Visit the Best Beaches in El Nido

It’s time to continue your Palawan Itinerary!

The keyword for this day is relaxation, so spend the whole day on the most beautiful beaches of El Nido.

Did you know that Palawan has been voted the most beautiful island in the world many times?

Palawan is a tropical paradise with beautiful white sand beaches, stunning limestone rock formations, crystal clear waters, wonderful islands, and lagoons.

Keep reading → Best Places to Visit in El Nido

You can rent a kayak, snorkel, swim, take a zipline between the islands, or chill out in one of the beach bars.

These beaches are a must-see in El Nido: Nacpan Beach, Coron Corong Beach, Duli Beach, and Las Cabanas Beach.

The best and cheapest way to explore El Nido is to rent a scooter. You can rent a scooter in El Nido for around 400-600 PHP (7-10.5 USD)/day at the hotels or in town.

• Luxury:   El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island
• Mid-Range:   Dryft Darocotan Island
• Budget:   Frendz Hostel El Nido

Day 4: Travel to Coron

It’s time to say goodbye to El Nido for a short time and continue your Palawan Itinerary to the beautiful island of Coron.

Coron is one of the most famous destinations in the Philippines, with its picturesque beaches, stunning rock formations, crystal clear waters, and World War II shipwreck scuba diving spots.

You can get from El Nido to Coron by plane, slow or fast ferry.

We have a detailed post on  how to get from El Nido to Coron with all the information you need.

We took the fast ferry from El Nido to Coron. The fast ferry takes just 5 hours and is  one of the best ways to travel to Coron.

Ferry tickets from El Nido to Coron start from 55 USD per person for one way. As the ferries run rarely, tickets can sell out quickly (especially in high season), so we recommend you buy online!

Buy your boat tickets in advance through 12Go or Bookaway , where you can get the best prices.

Join an Expedition Tour on your Palawan Itinerary

Are you looking for an unforgettable experience in Palawan, Philippines? You can join a 4-day, 3-night from El Nido to Coron boat expedition tour or vice versa. Explore paradise islands, visit hidden gems, and enjoy magical sunsets and delicious food.

Although there are several boat expeditions, we recommend  Big Dream Boatman , the Trip Advisor’s best Palawan expedition.

Expeditions usually cost around 600 USD.  The price includes  meals, beverages (including alcoholic beverages), towels, snorkeling gear, and three nights of island-style accommodations (cottages and camping).

Book your best boat expedition tour  HERE.

Day 5: Go on a Coron Island Hopping Tour

Coron was the best part of our trip to the Philippines. So plan your Palawan Itinerary to allow enough time for two island hopping tours.

We also did the A tour here on the first day, as in El Nido. But it’s good to know that Coron island hopping tours are more expensive than El Nido tours!

The Coron island hopping tours usually start around 8-9 AM and finish around 4-5 PM.

Read more → How to Spend 3 Days in Coron

Tour A includes CYC Beach, Las Islas De Coral, Kayangan Lake, and Sunset Beach.

The group A tour starts from an average of 29 USD.

Check island hopping tour prices and availability HERE.

Group tours include hotel pick-up and drop-off, drinking water, a buffet lunch, and government taxes.

The most photographed spot in Coron is the crystal clear emerald green waters of Kayangan Lake, the cleanest lake in the Philippines.

Day 6: Take another Coron Island Hopping Tour

Are you ready for one of the highlights of your Palawan Itinerary? After the last fantastic experience, it’s time to discover more of Coron and go on another island hopping tour.

Tour B includes  Barracuda Lake, Smith Beach, Skeleton Wreck, Twin Lagoon, and Reef Garden.

The group B tour starts from an average of 33 USD.

Barracuda Lake is the most beautiful snorkeling and diving spot in Coron. The water is so crystal clear that you can see the magnificent limestone cliff formations standing on the wooden dock.

Book multi-day Coron and El Nido island expeditions through  Big Dream Boatman.

As the boat tours are popular, you should book a Coron island hopping tour in advance! You can easily book private or group island hopping tours online.

Wreck diving is a popular activity in Coron. You can see a Japanese shipwreck that sank during World War II at the Skeleton Wreck.

The B tour offers a beautiful snorkeling site at Reef Garden, where you can discover amazing marine life.

• Luxury: Two Seasons Coron Island Resort
• Mid-Range: Bacau Bay Resort Coron or Tag Resort
• Budget: Vela Terraces Hotel

Day 7: Go Back to El Nido

We know how you feel when you leave Coron Island, as it is the highlight of every Palawan Itinerary.

But don’t worry! You can still spend some time in El Nido visiting the waterfalls, hiking the Taraw Cliff Canopy Walk and enjoying the nightlife of El Nido, or chilling out on one of the beaches.

From Coron, you can return to El Nido in the same way as you arrived from Coron by fast ferry or by plane.

Day 8: Travel to Port Barton, San Vicente

Port Barton is a hidden gem on the Palawan Itinerary, perfect for those who want to avoid the crowds of El Nido or Coron.

Port Barton is a quiet, small coastal village with stunning snorkeling spots, fantastic island hopping tours, white sandy beaches, and the most beautiful sunsets.

Getting to Port Barton is very easy from El Nido or Puerto Princesa.

From Puerto Princesa, you can reach Port Barton by bus or minivan. The journey time is 3.5-4 hours, depending on traffic. Bus tickets start from 7 USD, and minivans costs are around 7-11 USD.

Get Minivan Tickets.

There are regular buses and minivans to Port Barton from El Nido bus station. Bus tickets start from 6 USD, and minivan fares are around 11-16 USD. The journey time is 5-6 hours, depending on traffic.

Book yor minivan via 12Go.

Day 9: Go on a Port Barton Island Hopping Tour

Port Barton is a perfect place to relax and for island hopping tours, so add it to your Palawan Itinerary. We enjoyed staying in Port Barton.

The “A” Island hopping tour is the most popular. But in Port Barton harbor, you can easily book an island hopping tour and agree on a combined trip with the boat captain.

Port Barton island hopping tours would start approximately 8-9 AM and finish around 4-6 PM.

We did a combined island hopping tour and visited beautiful places. While snorkeling, we saw many turtles, colorful fish, corals, and starfish.

Port Barton Island Hopping Tours

• Port Barton Tour A: Twin Reef, Wide Reef, Lagoon Reef, Turtle Spot, German Island, Starfish Island, Paradise Island.
• Port Barton Tour B: Twin Reef, Turtle Spot, Starfish Island, Maxima Island, Fantastic Reef, Paradise Island.
• Port Barton Tour C: Aquarium Reef 1-2, Wide Reef, Turtle Spot, Paradise Island, Twin Reef, Starfish Island.
• Port Barton Tour D: Turtle Spot, Twin Reef, Bigaho Falls, Paradise Island, Lagoon Reef, Starfish Island.

The Port Barton island hopping tours start from 1500 PHP (26 USD), which includes the entrance fee, snorkeling mask, lunch, and drinking water.

Not all tours include the German island entrance fee, so you may have to pay an extra 100 PHP (2 USD).

TIP In Port Barton, be sure to visit White Beach and Long Beach.

• Mid-Range: Parrots Boutique Resort or Sunset Colors
• Budget: Ausan Beach Front Cottages

Day 10: Leave Palawan

We hope you enjoyed your 10-day Palawan Itinerary! But it’s time to say goodbye to Palawan and travel back to Puerto Princesa from Port Barton. Then, you can return home or continue exploring the Philippines.

From Port Barton, you can reach Puerto Princesa by bus or minivan. The journey time is 3.5-4 hours, depending on traffic.

Bus tickets start from 7 USD, and minivans costs are around 7-11 USD.

The bus is the cheapest option between Puerto Princesa and Port Barton. But there are no air-conditioned buses, which in our experience was not very comfortable for a long bus ride.

We hope our 10-day Palawan Itinerary will help you plan your next trip to the Philippines. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comments below.

Travel Resources

Hotels – Booking.com Car Rentals – Discover Cars Flights – Skyscanner Travel Insurance – SafetyWing Tours & Attractions – GetYourGuide Bus/Ferry/Transfer – 12Go

RECOMMENDED POSTS

Where to Stay: 11 Best Boracay Hotels in Station 1

Best Ways: How to Get from Puerto Princesa to El Nido

Best Ways: How to Get from El Nido to Puerto Princesa

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Best Palawan Itinerary For 2 Weeks (Including a Secret Spot!)

• by Jonny Duncan
• November 1, 2020 September 27, 2022

Looking for a good Palawan itinerary as part of your Philippines travels?

The Philippines has a lot of awesome travel experiences to offer andPalawan and Coron Islands are two of my favourites and this is what I did with my time in Palawan for 2 weeks, plus a secret location I’ll mention later (keep reading for it).

One of the things the Philippines is most famous for is white sand beaches and fun in the sun. You can find all that on Palawan.

Technically Coron Island is part of Palawan but I’ve added it as a separate destination in itself as quite a few travellers I met in El Nido didn’t plan to go there as they didn’t realise beforehand about it.

There is a lot to do on Palawan, but myself and my travelling companions chose to stick to the northern part as we wanted to continue on to Coron Island and Apo Reef.

North Palawan Itinerary

Day 1 – puerto princesa.

The beginning of this Palawan itinerary begins in Puerto Princesa as this will most likely be your port of entry and is the main town on Palawan.

There are things to do around Puerto Princesa although we didn’t spend long there ourselves as we wanted to head to the west coast and the north of Palawan.

Take transport to Sabang  the day after arriving in Puerto Princesa.

In that regard this article can be seen as suggestions for things you can get up to.

FIND PLACES TO STAY IN PUERTO PRINCESA HERE

Day 2 – Sabang Subterranean River

If you managed to get to Sabang on the first day then you can take it easy in the morning, or if you stayed in Puerto Princesa get up early enough to get to Sabang.

Sabang is known as the entry way to get to the ‘ Subterranean River ‘ that is well known on Palawan.

It’s a cool place to visit (pun intended as it can be chilly inside) although it is a popular tourist attraction so can get busy.

You go on a small boat into a cave system in the rocks and is fun enough to do, although if you can’t make it there you aren’t missing the Taj Mahal or something like that.

For the rest of time in Sabang just chill out on the beach and grab some fresh fish dinner at one of the buffet dinners on a beach hotel.

Day 3 – A Big Jump Up To El Nido

Ok there is a bunch of stuff you can do between Sabang and El Nido in the north of Palawan, but we jumped straight up to El Nido from Sabang as we planned for time on Coron Island and another little getaway we discovered (revealed later).

Day 4 – 6 El Nido And Boat Trips/Beaches Around The Area

El Nido is such a good place to base yourself in the north and you can do day trips to surrounding beaches, islands, nature areas from there.

Two to three days will be enough to get a taste of what it has to offer, but if you have the time then take it easy and see more of things you can do in El Nido.

The boat rides in this area are epic. You can see karst rock outcrops, secluded white sand beaches, and there’s good kayaking and snorkelling to be had.

You can find secret beaches as well while exploring the turquoise waters of the lagoons.

Many companies run local boats to these places and can be found when in El Nido.

That being said if you want to book everything ahead then do so through a good travel company in Palawan , especially if you don’t want the hassle of doing everything by yourself.

El Nido itself is a small town with hotels/hostels and plenty of restaurants. Having a good fish dinner on the beach for sunset is a great way to finish the day there.

Speaking of sunsets the ones around El Nido are some of the best in the Philippines and make for great photographic opportunities.

The whole area around El Nido will be one of the highlights for any Palawan itinerary.

Day 7 – Boat to Coron Island

Although you could technically visit Coron on day trips from El Nido it’s way better to stay on the island itself otherwise it’s so rushed.

Take a boat from El Nido to Coron (an agent in El Nido will help arrange everything if you want).

You should arrive late afternoon into the town where you will stay (there’s only one main one and is where the boats stop).

Climb up the small hill above the town for a good view, and if it’s the right conditions, a good sunset pic.

Day 8 -11 – Snorkel/Dive Boat trips Around Coron Island

Coron Island is epic for its shipwreck diving as there are many Japanese shipwrecks from World War II you can dive on.

It is also a good place to do a PADI scuba diving course, which would take 3-4 days for a beginners course. This is what one of the friends I was with did.

After doing the course you could then go out and try some shipwreck diving if you feel confident enough.

There is also good snorkelling and boat trips around on local boats to turquoise lagoons.

In the early morning or evening check out the local fish market in town to get a taste of local life and some fresh fish, if you like that.

Coron should generally be all about diving/snorkelling, and just general chilling.

Day 12 – Boat to San Jose (Mindoro Island) Then Transport to North Pandan Island)

The last few days actually take you away from Palawan but on to a secret little gem of a place.

Take a boat from Coron to Mindoro Island (to San Jose town) then straight away some local transport north up the coast a few hours to Sablayan where you can arrange a small boat for the short trip to North Pandan Island .

There’s a bungalow resort on the island for you to stay at. Get a drink and enjoy the sunset.

Day 13 – Apo Reef

Apo Reef Natural Park  is between Coron and Mindoro islands.

This is the ‘secret spot’ I have mentioned for the article. Secret simply because most travellers haven’t seemed to have heard about it, outside of a few divers I met.

It’s a nature reserve so isn’t overrun with tourists. Most people that visit come on dive boats that pass through there on longer trips, or day trips to dive/snorkel Apo Reef from Mindoro (what I did).

You won’t stay on the island but a long day trip from North Pandan Island is enough to get some seriously good diving or snorkelling in.

One of the resorts on North Pandan Island can arrange for you to join a boat trip going there (as long as they’re running).

At Apo Reef there is some excellent diving down a steep reef cliff, or if you are snorkelling it’s also just as good to get a look at what Apo Reef is famous for: sharks!

Yep, there’s a lot of reef sharks at Apo Reef and they are not dangerous enough for people (although you never really know with nature).

Even just snorkelling you will see loads of sharks just swimming around the reef.

Just being so remote in the ocean away from lots of tourists is another big appeal of the place.

After a great day of diving/snorkelling you come back to North Pandan Island again.

Day 14 – Wherever You Go Next

The end of the suggested Palawan itinerary.

This ones entirely up to you where you want to keep exploring in the Philippines.

Practicalities For Visiting Palawan & Coron

A standard tourist visa for the Philippines  (check that link to Wikipedia for all countries visa requirements) for most nationalities is 30 days. This can be extended however, and if you apply before going to the Philippines at an embassy you can get 60 days (2019).

To get to Palawan you will most likely fly from either the capital Manila, or Cebu City, as this is the easiest way. Puerto Princesa as mentioned is the gateway town to fly into.

This is what I would pack for visiting Palawan and travelling anywhere in fact.

Useful links for your Palawan Itinerary

Take the Lonely Planet Philippines travel guide to help plan your trip to the Philippines.

I recommend using SafetyWing Travel Insurance for your trip, just in case, it’s best to be prepared.

Get a quote:

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Glad I enjoyed the post! This is a great list for the visitors who would like to know more . Thanks

Out of all the beaches that I have tried here in the Philippines, I have to admit that Coron is my favorite one among all of them. 🙂 Glad you had fun in Coron! Thanks for sharing this! 🙂

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Staying in Palawan for 1 Wk: Here’s the Perfect Itinerary

Called the “Final Frontier of the Philippines,” Palawan is the ultimate travel goal. It has several beach destinations that can rival the Maldives or Caribbean Islands. If you plan a one-week trip to Palawan, here is a simple itinerary. This Palawan itinerary covers Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron.

One-week Palawan itinerary

Day 1: Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesa is the biggest city in Palawan, on the main island. It is the usual first stop because most transport hubs are here. As a matter of fact, travelers from Manila, Cebu, Pampanga, and other destinations arrive here through regular flights. Hopefully, you will arrive in the morning, so you can explore the island in one day.

The most famous destination is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. This natural attraction is an 8-kilometer limestone karst cave system. An otherworldly experience, the limestones glisten as you traverse the cave. 

After visiting the underground river in Puerto Princesa , you may linger at Sabang. It is a village outside the tourist spot’s entrance area filled with hole-in-the-wall dining places serving fresh seafood and refreshing cocktails.

Days 2-4: El Nido

Head north to El Nido on your second day in Palawan. El Nido has several tourist attractions, but you need to exert effort — particularly a 5-hour drive, taking in all the challenges that come with going to the island. For instance, you will drive through rough roads. Once you get there, though, you will never want to leave El Nido . The beachfront will surely enchant you.

If you are an adventurer, you should climb the Taraw Cliff. From the summit, you will surely appreciate the panoramic views of the island in all its limestone karst majesty and the sea. 

On Day 3, you may go island hopping, which is what El Nido is for. You may book a local boat online ahead of time or on the night of Day 2. Know, however, that boat tours quickly sell out, so you might have to be on the waiting list if you do not plan ahead. Several boat tours are available, and some of the most popular island destinations are here.

• Secret Lagoon
• Shimizu Island
• Seven Commando Beach
• Helicopter Island
• Matinloc Island
• Secret Beach
• Hidden Beach

Day 4 is also for island hopping, but you may rest in the afternoon and linger on the beachfront to prepare and conserve energy for the evening festivities. Yes, nightlife in El Nido is a must-experience too. 

There are several bars to hang out in the evening. Enjoy fresh seafood barbeque that goes perfectly with ice-cold booze.

Days 5-7: Coron

From El Nido, you may head to Coron on a ferry or boat. Ferry rides take up to six hours, while boat rides are four hours long. You may book your tickets ahead of time also or in El Nido. However, ticket prices are likely to increase if there is an influx of tourists.

You may start exploring Coron as soon as you arrive around the afternoon. However, you can only do a little with little time. If you want, you can take a short hike to Mount Tapyas. Sunsets in Coron are best viewed atop the mountain.

This island paradise has two of the most popular destinations in Palawan: Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoons. Kayanga Lake is the place to be if you want to glimpse Coron’s viewpoint. On the other hand, a limestone cliff where you can swim under separates the Twin Lagoons. You can explore both areas.

On your third day in Coron, you may visit Black Island and Pass Island. Pass Island is smaller than Black Island, which is reminiscent of the island in the movie ‘Cast Away.’ Black Island has a bedrock of limestone, though it has caves, soft sands, and palm trees. Truly the perfect island to cap your Palawan trip!

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Palawan’s Best Things To Do: An Awesome Itinerary

06/04/2022 by Ashley Yap 2 Comments

Palawan in the Philippines is a vacation unto itself. Full of island hopping adventures, dramatic cliffs, hidden lagoons, underwater rivers, and white sand beaches, you have to put in a concerted effort not to find more things to do on Palawan than you have time for.

The following itinerary has some of the best things to do on Palawan beginning from what is usually the starting point for most visitors – Puerto Princesa:

Table of Contents

1. Puerto Princesa

Possibly your first stop in Palawan, thanks to the convenient airport, Puerto Princesa has two major things to do that make it worth stopping in for a day or two.

Where to Stay:

I stayed at Blue Palawan beach resort and thought it was decent. The restaurant was pretty good and the room was nice, too. They also offer free airport transport. It’s not the best place I’ve ever stayed, but neither is Puerto Princesa, to be honest!

Things to Do:

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park: Though not exactly in Puerto Princesa, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains the second longest underground river in the world. It is touristy and it takes quite a while to get there from Puerto Princesa, but when else are you going to get the chance to see such a thing?

Honda Bay:  Since I only had a day in Puerto Princesa, I chose to island hop in Honda Bay, which is about a 30-minute tricycle ride north of the city. There are plenty of options to do this as an organized tour, but I really wanted to do it independently, which worked out cheaper, too. You can read more about the islands, see what they look like, and learn how to do a Honda Bay DIY trip here.

Where to Go Next:

Most people head from Puerto Princesa to El Nido. I have  full directions on how to do that using a bus, van, or flight here . You can also stop in Port Barton on the way, or go from El Nido if you had been there first. See below for more details:

El Nido is arguably Palawan’s most famous stop. When you head there and see the lagoons and limestone cliffs, you’ll understand why. There’s nowhere in the world quite like El Nido. That said, it’s also a tourist favorite, so don’t expect to get it all to yourself.

How to Get to El Nido:

The easiest way to get to El Nido is to fly, either from Puerto Princesa or from Manila. I have more information on how to get there here .

Click here for a list of tried-and-tested best hotels in El Nido!

Most people go island hopping in El Nido . If you don’t island hop at least one day, you’re missing out on most of the magic of El Nido. The island hopping is pretty rigid in its organization, with tours named A-D with the same stops on each. If you take a private tour you can customize things a bit more, though it’s a pretty penny. There are also great places to watch the sunset, do yoga, and check out other beaches and a waterfall. Read more at the links below:

Tour A: private tour here , group tour here

Tour B: private tour here , group tour here

Tour C: group tour here

All of the Things to do in El Nido

3. Port Barton

When making our way through Palawan, the place I was most excited to visit was Port Barton . From what we had read online, it was meant to be much more secluded and far less developed than most other parts of Palawan, and  I was not disappointed! It has just as much of the beauty and charm of El Nido and Coron, but with far fewer backpackers.

How to Get to Port Barton:

Getting to Port Barton is very easy. Most get there from El Nido or Puerto Princesa. The cost for a 3 and a half hour minibus transfer from El Nido was 500PHP per person.

Though Port Barton is still very much up and coming, it has developed a lot in the last 12 months. They finally got 24 hour electricity at the end of 2018, and there are now a lot more homestays there than there were before. We stayed at Eashanti’s Place and I would definitely recommend it. However, if you are into partying and drinking late into the night, then the number one backpacker hostel for cheap drinks is CocoRico Hostel Bar and Restaurant . They have free rum and coke for an hour every day and are blasting music late into the night. For me, I much preferred strolling along the beach and dining in the many peaceful restaurants with seating literally right on the beach.

There is so much to do there, with the most popular activity being the day long island hopping tour which takes you to some awesome snorkelling spots and to incredible beaches. One stop even offers the chance to swim with sea turtles, which we weren’t able to do anywhere else in Palawan. Some other activities to consider doing when in Port Barton include: ● Visiting White Beach ● Enjoying the sunset from Port Barton’s main beach ● Hiking to Pamuayan Falls ● Taking a boat ride and trek to Bigaho Falls

– Bradley of Dream Big, Travel Far

4. Taytay (Flower Island Eco Resort)

If playing castaway on a private island in the Philippines is on your bucket list, look no further than Taytay , a small island that’s just off the coast of northeast Palawan. Away from the crowds of El Nido, this Island provides quiet, solitude and a back-to-nature approach to island life in the Philippines.

Taytay was once the capital of Palawan during the Spanish colonial occupation, and although there’s not much to do in the town itself, it’s a useful jumping off point for island exploration, and there are reportedly some nice waterfall treks just to the north.

How to Get to Taytay:

You can take a shuttle from Puerto Princesa to Taytay, which takes about four hours. If you want a private transfer the resort can help you arrange that, but the best value option is to take one of the regular shared shuttles.

From Taytay you’ll need to get a private boat from the resort (pre-arrange this) – there are no public ferries as this is a private island.

Accessed by private ferry from the port of Taytay, Flower Island Eco Resort is the only building on this small island, and has been constructed out of low-impact materials. Mid-Range beach huts (mostly ventilated using the breeze) front the beach, which if you come during low season you may well have to yourself (or at most to a few other hotel guests).

The resort’s main mission is to preserve the island and surrounding nature through tourism. It’s largely self-sufficient and much of the food is grown on the island (or fished by line from the end of the hotel’s pier). To reduce food waste, each day has a different, surprise menu, where you get the best and freshest.

We went to visit the Save the Palawan Seas Foundation on a nearby island, which the resort mentioned above supports. The foundation has been campaigning to increase patrols against dynamite fishing (a huge threat to the coral in this part of the world as fish stocks decline due to pollution and local fishermen resort to more and more desperate measures to fetch a decent catch). They also teach villagers methods to grow their own vegetables at home, without pesticides, in order to reduce poverty. Spending an hour or two with the volunteers was a memorable part of our stay here and showed us some of the challenges and opportunities that lie in store for Islanders here.

Back on Flower Island, there’s a spa, cocktail bar, kayaks and snorkeling equipment aplenty and so we took to the water to see in an incredible array of color under the surface. The resort also offers tours to a nearby Pearl Farm which provides an interesting insight into how the pearl industry works, and how this delicate process is being threatened by climate change.

– Ellie of Soul Travel Blog

5. Coron Island

Though Coron and El Nido are quite similar, they each have their own striking features that set them apart from one another, and both are worth visiting. Island hopping in Coron is quite magical, with islands that have caves, hidden lagoons (like the Twin Lagoon ), and even quiet tree houses.

How to Get to Coron Island:

“If traveling from El Nido, it’s possible to take a ferry to Coron Town Proper, which takes a couple of hours. You can also fly from El Nido or Manila into the airport, which will require a tricycle, taxi, or van ride of about 30 minutes to your accommodation. You can also take a TAO expedition, described in point 6 below.

I stayed at  Sanctuaria Treehouses  on the more northwestern, quiet side of Busuanga Island, just outside of Coron for two days and closer to Coron Town Proper for two days at Sophia’s Garden Resort and thought splitting time was the best way to do it. It gave me access to some of the farther, less visited islands at the beginning of my trip and proximity to the more popular Coron Island across the bay for the latter half.

Update 2023: Unfortunately, Sophia’s Garden Resort closed down due to the pandemic. Here’s a list  of tried and tested hotel recommendations by my team member, who visited Coron in 2023!

Like El Nido, you haven’t seen Coron if you haven’t island hopped (mostly because the island of Coron is not on the same island as Coron town, confusingly!). It’s a bit easier to go about organizing your own boat and picking your own stops in Coron than El Nido, which I detailed in this post . You can also find other things to do like hiking and even a saltwater hot spring – one of few in the world. The SCUBA diving is considered the best in the Philippines in Coron thanks to the WWII wrecks and Apo Reef as well.

If you’re trying to decide between Coron and El Nido, I go into the benefits and drawbacks of both in this post .

6. TAO Expedition

Taking an expedition with TAO Philippines is a great way to experience some of the most beautiful islands of Palawan.

TAO Philippines is a locally owned company that runs multi-day island hopping tours through the remote islands of Northern Palawan. They offer both 3 and 5-day tours, which start and end in El Nido or Coron.

There is no itinerary or plan for the expedition. The days are spent swimming in turquoise waters, snorkeling through vibrant coral reefs, chilling on secluded beaches, and fishing off the back of the boat. At the end of each day, they supply drinks to enjoy while watching the gorgeous sunset.

TAO has 13 base camps on remote islands throughout Palawan and each day the team decides where to sleep that night. Accommodations are in gorgeous bamboo huts overlooking the ocean. Three delicious meals are served each day, which usually involve fresh seafood caught just before it’s served.

What I love about TAO is that they are more than a regular tour company, it’s a social enterprise. They use tourism as a tool to build resilient communities throughout Palawan. During the tour, you get many opportunities to interact with the local communities and see the various projects TAO has started on the islands.

The cost of the tour is $545 USD but well worth every penny. TAO is one of the most unique tours I’ve ever done and a great example of responsible tourism. If you want to join a TAO Expedition, you can book online through their website or visit their office in El Nido or Coron.

Taking a TAO Expedition was the highlight of my time in the Philippines, it’s the perfect tour for those looking for an adventure you can feel good about.

– Lora of Explore with Lora

7. Cuyo Island

Cuyo is often described as Philippines hidden gem and now I can see why. The oldest town in Palawan, Cuyo is full of rich culture which has evolved from both native and Spanish influences. Cuyo is perfect for those looking to relax on the white sandy beaches, take a dip in the crystal clear waters, eat tasty Filipino food, and interact with the locals who believe in a simple, carefree life.

How to Get to Cuyo:

Cuyo is the largest island of the Cuyo Archipelago with the biggest population and is situated in between Palawan and Panay. The most common option of transport is by ferry, however, the airline Juan Air also runs flights to Cuyo. We choose the overnight ferry option to save a night on accommodation, which took around 15 hours. Yes, that sounds like a long time, but don’t worry we managed a few hours’ sleep! The ferry is comfortable and they provide snacks, but if you’re a fussy eater like me, I’d suggest you take your own.

There’s never a bad time to visit Cuyo, however if you want to miss the rainfall it’s best to visit November until March when the weather tends to be drier and cooler. However, during rainy seasons you’ll only be greeted by short sharp bursts, which brings a period of wanted coolness! If you’re lucky enough to visit Cuyo during August you’ll get your experience the Cuyo Fiesta, full of dance, colour, and music to celebrate.

If you’re looking for a sweet place to stay, then you should check out the Anino Kite Resort . Just one mile from the airport this top accommodation on Cuyo offers WiFi, clean rooms and a free breakfast.

First Name:

You can hire a boat for the day and explore the many islands situated around Cuyo to get some amazing photos, and the best part is that you’ll have the place all to yourself, unlike the famous El Nido and Coron (although, there are some clever ways to ditch the crowds in Coron! ). For the adrenaline junkies out there, Cuyo is an awesome place to learn kitesurfing. Swimming and relaxing on the beach are great, but watch out for the sea urchins – I’d recommend water shoes!

Just 300 meters from the pier, St Augustine’s Church was constructed by the Spanish missionaries in the 17th century, and its architecture is simple yet worth taking a look at. The church remains the most popular place in town to attend mass. Finally, we recommend hiking up Mt Aguado. Enjoy this 4km hike starting from the pier to take in 360 degree views of Cuyo Island, as well as the statues along the way telling the story of Christ.

– Louis of The Northern Boy

Many places claim to be ‘off-the-beaten-track’ but Rizal , on Palawan’s south-west coast, really fits the bill. With many uninhabited beach coves lining the coastline, you’ll no doubt find a secluded spot to enjoy the unspoiled white sandy beaches, calm azure waters and some genuine peace and quiet – you’ll likely be the only tourist for miles. 

How to get to Rizal:

It’s not easy to get here; once you’ve flown into Puerto Princesa you’ll need to navigate a five+ hour journey out of the city, down some deserted roads, across dirt tracks – and even through a thick, seemingly impenetrable forest.  

But once you arrive, you’ll understand why the journey is worth it. Many places claim to be ‘off-the-beaten-track’, but Rizal really means it. We can almost guarantee that on this secluded section of Filipino coastline, you’ll be the only tourist there.  

We stayed at Momma Sally’s Guesthouse . Momma Sally is a Filipino native who grew up on this patch of land; she knows the area by heart. She can arrange an airport pick-up, provide you with home-cooked food, and take you to the market, should you desire.  

This really is the perfect place to live the deserted-beach lifestyle for a week, safe in the knowledge you’ve got a friend looking out for you.  

What to Do:

I spent a week moving from deserted beach-cove hut to sea-side hammock, with only local fishermen and friendly stray dogs as company. After early morning wakeup calls from the resident rooster, I spent my days watching unspoilt sunrises, drinking coffee, eating fresh fish, and alternating between reading a book on the hammock and dozing on the sand. 

If you’re worrying how you’ll be able to pass the time with so little to do – I wouldn’t. I’m one of the most active travellers I know, but Rizal really taught me to relax and appreciate mother earth’s true beauty. There’s a local market nearby which is worth prizing yourself off the hammock for, to take in rural Filipino life – oh, and to stock up on delicious fresh fruit for your next few days of lazing.

– Katie of Contemporary Class 

9. Tabon Caves

It may not be one of the most famous spots in the Philippines, but the Tabon Caves is one of the most significant. It’s worth visiting to learn more about the important history of this site – and enjoy the stunning natural scenery that comes as a bonus!

How to get to Tabon Caves:

The easiest way to visit Tabon Caves is by tour from Puerto Princesa. If you shop around, you’ll be able to find one that’s not much more expensive than doing it independently. If you would like to do it yourself, you can get the bus to the small town of Quezon and go across by boat (about 800 pesos for the boat, with up to 6 people).

There are only a couple of guesthouses in Quezon (such as Noc’s Pension House ), so it’s possible to stay overnight if you want. But unless there are other things you would like to do in the area, it’s probably better to base yourself closer to (or in) Puerto Princesa and do Tabon Caves as a day trip.

There are two reasons why Tabon Caves are such an important Palawan site – one about nature and one about man. When it comes to nature, it’s easy to see for yourself. These beautiful caves open up in front of you, offering an easy exploration into caverns filled with interesting rock formations. Around them is a lush green jungle and a stunning coastline with a couple of beaches for swimming and picnics.

But it’s the history that makes them so special. It’s here that some of the oldest evidence of humans in Asia have been found. There was a famous discovery of the skeleton of the ‘Tabon Man’, that’s thought to be about 30,000 years old (and turned out to actually be a woman). And another fossilised bone fragment found here is estimated to be up to 50,000 years old!

When you stand in these caves or walk through the darkened tunnels, you can almost imagine what it would have been like for early man to shelter here at night and eat the meals that they had hunted in the jungles around them. There are about 30 protected caves here at the Tabon Caves complex but only seven are usually open to the public. They are easily accessible and there’s no climbing involved – there are even stairs in some of the steeper ones. It’s more of a museum than an adventure activity – but the nature has been quite well-preserved.

– Michael of Time Travel Turtle

10. Balabac

Balabac is a group of islands in the southernmost tip of Palawan. Once an off-beat location, it’s becoming a more popular destination due to its virgin islands and sand bars.

How to get to Balabac:

To get to Balabac, you need to take a local flight to Puerto Princesa, Palawan. From there, commute to either Rio Tuba or Buliluyan port, where boats can take you to Balabac.

To get to the islands, you can arrange for an island hopping tour. Some locals also offer full packages, which include transfer from/to Balabac, accommodation and food.

For the accommodation, you can either camp overnight on the islands or stay in modest inns in mainland Balabac island. For the first, it’s best to consult with your boat operator as some islands aren’t ideal for overnight stays due to permission issues or insects.

Once you’re here the one thing you can do is relax and island hop. You can visit Onuk Island, a private island with white sand, blue water and where you can freedive to see giant clams and turtles. Onuk Island is the most sought-after islands in Balabac. You can also see Candaraman Island, another great beach that can easily beat popular tropical beaches around the world, and which has an area called “starfish alley” where you can take pictures with literally dozens of starfishes; Camiaran Island, a pinkish-sand beach; Mansalangan sand bar, with its picturesque sand formation; and Punta Sebaring, which has one of the finest, whitest sands in the country.

Island hopping can easily be done in 3 days.

Balabac is also known for whale sharks sightings and some higher end liveaboard diving opportunities.

Another thing that you can enjoy in Balabac is fresh, cheap seafood. Fish, shrimp, and crabs can be bought early in the morning from local fishers or, during island hopping tours, caught and/or cooked by your boat operator.

– Tara of Tara Lets Anywhere

I hope this itinerary gives you an idea of some of the best things to do in Palawan. It’s a gorgeous province of the Philippines with tons of variety, some very popular spots, and some off the beaten path gems.

The Perfect Philippines Itinerary

What to pack when traveling in southeast asia, about ashley yap.

Ashley is the manager of Be My Travel Muse, one of the biggest solo female travel blogs in the world. She's traveled solo to over 20 countries, spending months in each for an immersive experience.

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01/30/2020 at 3:40 am

I love your posts, so clear and interesting! I am going for the first time to Philippines and i am really excited. However i only have 8 days this time as I am going to do a yoga teaching for a month right after.

my question is: If you are first time travelling to Philippines and have only 8 days should I do 1. Port Barton and el Nido or 2. Siargao ?

I am a lot into exploring and ideally less crowded more paradise like. I dont need any ‘luxury’ and I am going by my self end of Feb. any suggestions?

I know El Nido is like ‘THE’ place but i am not sure about how busy and tourity it might feel. In the other side Siargao seems really nice but not sure if the beauty would compare to el Nido.

Kristin says

01/30/2020 at 5:12 am

If you want it to be less touristy and you’re cool with getting on a motorbike to explore then consider Siargao, or if you want even less touristy then take a look at Siquijor or Camiguin! Siquijor info here: https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/siquijor-island-tourist-spots/

The Ultimate One Week Palawan Itinerary: Exploring The Philippines’ El Nido & Coron

Explore a paradise you need to see for yourself with this Palawan itinerary. 

I’ll just jump in and say it: the Philippines is quite possibly the most beautiful country on Earth.

I know there are lots of other contenders for the title and there’s a good chance you’re yelling at your screen right now, but I’ve never been so blown away by the world around me as I was on our Palawan trip.

I mean, just look at it…

Just to let you know… This post contains affiliate links, including Amazon Associates links. I may receive a small commission from them at no extra cost to you.

And, even though there are countless beautiful places in the Philippines, Palawan still takes the number one spot for me. 

If you’re thinking of visiting Palawan, first of all – great choice! It’s the kind of place that’s impossible to not love, and I know you’re going to have unforgettable trip. 

But, to make it even better, I’m going to cover everything you need to know in this Palawan itinerary. We’ll look at how long to spend in Palawan, how many days in Coron you will need, where else to go and how to make the most of your week in Palawan. 

I’ve also laid out my recommended Coron and El Nido itinerary, covering all my favourite spots in the region.

Ready to jump in? Let’s go!

Why visit Palawan?

How many days to spend in palawan, palawan destinations, day 1: arrive in coron , day 2: hop on a coron boat tour , day 3: explore coron by land , day 4: transfer to el nido , day 5: island hopping in el nido – tour c , day 6: el nido land tour , day 7: island hopping in el nido – tour a.

Palawan has a strange sense of familiarity about it, most likely because it looks like one giant movie set. 

Fun fact: quite a few Hollywood films have used Palawan as a backdrop.

And, from its perfectly placed palms trees to the lush blue seas that splash against the thousands of islands, Palawan has all the perfect paradise vibes that you thought only existed in Hollywood films (and travel brochures – remember those?).

But Palawan is very, very real – even if the photos you take will look like they’ve been Photoshopped.

Despite all it has to offer our eyes and Instagram feeds, however, the Philippines is still relatively off the radar of most travellers.

Why? I have no idea. Who wouldn’t want to see this cluster of 7000+ islands for themselves? From surfing in Siargao to metropolitan Manila , the Philippines is full of unique travel experiences.

If you’re ready for some adventure, beaches and boats, it’s time to add the Philippines to your list – and there’s no better place to begin than in Palawan.

Palawan is one of the most popular areas of the Philippines for visitors, but don’t let that put you off.

The Philippines is still relatively untouched by tourists compared to most of the surrounding countries in South-East Asia, even if it’s beginning to grow.

My advice? Get in there now before the secret spreads and the Philippines becomes super popular!

And if you’ve never been to the Philippines before, Palawan is the perfect place to start. The question is: how long do you need in Palawan?

In all honesty, you could easily spend a month exploring Palawan. It’s not a small province, and there’s a lot to see and do.

It’s also a brilliant place to do nothing at all, so don’t rule out a few days of relaxation if you have time. 

For the sake of this itinerary, I’ve squeezed the best bits into a one week itinerary that can be adapted if you like.

Before we start talking about the best places to visit in Palawan, let’s clear up where Palawan is.

Destinations names in the Philippines can get a little confusing. Islands and provinces often share the same names – and that’s the case for Palawan.

Palawan can refer to the island of Palawan, or the wider province of Palawan in which Palawan island is located – confused yet? The islands of Palawan are located on the western side of the Philippines, close to the north of Malaysia .

If you only have 1-2 weeks in Palawan, you’ll probably want to spend most of that time in two main places: El Nido, on Palawan island, and Coron (or Coron island).

Palawan has no shortage of things to do and see.

From diving and snorkelling to kayaking into hidden lagoons, they’re all the kind of things that dreams are made of. However, most of them are accessible only by boat.

To make of most of your Palawan trip, I’d recommend booking on to one of the many boat tours. There are plenty of boats you can join.

But, if you’re travelling in a group – or don’t mind splashing a little more money – get a private tour.

A private boat with a local tour guide will make those memories even more special (and those ‘grams even more like-worthy).

Stay connected throughout your trip with   SkyRoam pocket WiFi .

This handy little device will give you unlimited data so you’ll never be without maps, emails and a way to contact home.

The Ultimate Palawan Itinerary

Let’s get on to the good stuff, shall we? Here’s how to spend your time in Palawan!

I’ve created this Palawan itinerary based on a 7-day trip to the region, but you could of course spend longer there.

I know I could happily spend several months there, soaking up the sun and enjoying the ‘laid-back with a side of adventure’ lifestyle.

If you do end up spending longer than one or two weeks in Palawan, you can fill the extra days with more of the boat tours or exploring the mainland beaches and viewpoints.

But these are the ones I’d recommend no matter how long your Palawan trip lasts.

This Palawan itinerary begins in Coron and moves on to the El Nido itinerary afterwards. But, you could easily do things the other way around.

There’s no real advantage or disadvantage to either, so check the flights and take your pick!

A Coron itinerary for days 1-3

If you’re wondering how many days to spend in Coron vs how many days to spend on Palawan island, I would say you want about the same in each.

If I had to choose between the two, I would spend slightly longer in El Nido, but both need at least a couple of days to enjoy.

This part of the Palawan itinerary will make sure you maximise your time in Coron.

The easiest way to get to Coron is to fly in from Manila. The flight takes just over an hour in total and there are several flights every day.

Plus, you’ll get to go on one of those super fun propeller planes.

As an increasingly popular destination, there are quite a few hotels in Coron and it’s likely that more will soon.

We checked into the Corto del Mar and had zero complaints. It’ll set you back more than a hostel, but you’ll get a very large room to unwind in, a beautiful pool to cool down in and the breakfast is second to none.

TRAVEL TIP : try the tapsilog , a dish consisting of marinated beef strips, fried egg and rice. It doesn’t sound like breakfast but it sure makes a good one!

It’s time to get out onto the water! Since a lot of this Palawan trip is water-based, we may as well get out on the sea as soon as possible, right?

Even though there’s not as much to explore by boat as there will be in El Nido (we’re getting there soon, don’t worry!), there’s enough to see in Coron to fill an entire day.

And a little word of warning: it’s going to be a long one.

Just make sure you come prepared for this part of trip. I put together this free Philippines packing list to make sure you don’t miss anything.

If you can organise a private boat tour, set off bright and early to beat the crowds. Ask your crew to take you to the following spots:

Kayangan Lake : A beautiful lake that you’ll just want to jump into! You’ll also get a pretty amazing view on the short climb up to it.

The Twin Lagoons: Remember that photo at the top of this post? That was taken at twin lagoons. the twin lagoons are best seen by kayak, so try to hop on a boat tour that includes one.

Calachuchi Beach : We stopped here for lunch and almost had it entirely to ourselves. Let’s just say there are worse places to enjoy a boat BBQ!

The Japanese Shipwreck : Just what it sounds like – a shipwrecked boat that you can dive down to or see from the top of the water with a snorkel mask.

Coral Garden: If you’re into snorkelling, you’ll be pleased to know that your Palawan trip can include as much snorkelling as you like. There are heaps of snorkelling spots around Palawan, but we all agreed that this one was our favourite. It’s absolutely breath-taking, so don’t miss a stop at the Coral Garden.

TRAVEL TIP: There’s lot of snorkelling to enjoy in the Philippines. Just make sure you have adequate travel insurance to cover water-based activities. I use and recommend Heymondo – click here to get your free quote and access my exclusive reader discount.

Coron Tours

If you’d rather book onto an organised tour in advance, these Coron island hopping tours cover all or most of my recommended places:

Coron Ultimate Tour :  For a little bit of everything

Coron Tour D : If you want to spend more time above and below – rather that on – the water

Coron Tour B : If you want to spend as much time swimming as possible

As tempting as it is, don’t limit your time in Coron to island hopping.

Even though the focus of any Palawan trip will always be water-based, Coron has some drier sights worth visiting too.

Start your day with a walk up to to Mount Tapyas, where the big ‘Coron’ sign sits. You’ll want to set off early to avoid making the same mistake as us and getting caught in the scorching mid-day heat!

After a 700-step climb, you’ll get to enjoy what is probably the best view of Coron. Make sure you leave some time to enjoy it (and take a break after the climb!).

The other main attraction in Coron is the Maquinit hot springs . Here, you can relax in the natural baths before cooling down with a drink.

They’re a little way out of town, so hire a scooter to explore, hop in a taxi or flag down a trike to drive you out there.

If you want to keep things as low-stress as possible, you can also hop on this super affordable tour which covers all of the above and more.

Spend the evening exploring the streets of Coron town, checking out the local food market and meeting the cutest kids in the world.

Days 4-7: Palawan El Nido itinerary

Now you’ve seen the best of Coron, it’s time to head to my favourite spot of all: El Nido. 

This El Nido itinerary assumes you have 3-4 days to enjoy this part of Palawan. However, if you have more time, you could easily fill your days here.

Take the Montenegro fast boat from Coron to El Nido. A one-way trip costs 1,848 Filipino pesos, which is roughly £26 ($34 USD), and can be booked on the Travel Palawan website .

Ferries need to be booked in advance and can fill up quickly. It’s best to book as soon as you know your travel plans.

Once you arrive in El Nido, the main area is just a  few minutes’ walk from the harbour. Check into Shipwreck Pension , one of the friendliest places I’ve ever stayed.

It’s on the main street, one row back from the water’s edge, so you’re perfectly located for exploring El  Nido.

On the same street, you’ll also find some restaurants to rival those in Siargao . Head to Little Italy for some seriously satisfying pizza or LC’s Burrito Bar for – you guessed it – burritos and other Mexican delights.

There are four main boat tours that you can take from El Nido: the imaginatively named Tour A, Tour B, Tour C and Tour D.

Begin with Tour C to make sure you get to see the best of Palawan’s islands and beaches. It includes Helicopter Beach, Matinloc Shrine – where you’ll stop for a fresh seafood lunch – Secret Beach and Hidden Beach.

There will plenty of chance to swim, snorkel and sunbathe, so make sure you bring a bikini and a towel. Book your tour in advance here.

Just like Coron, El Nido has plenty of places to explore on land too.

One of the best places to visit in El Nido is the Nagkalit Kalit waterfall. It’s a short trek in (around 30-45 minutes, depending on your speed) so it’s best to start early again.

After visiting the waterfalls, reward yourself with an afternoon at the beach. El Nido has some of the best beaches in Palawan. Make sure you check out the unbelievable NacPan Beach and Corong Corong Beach.

As everything’s a little out of the way, you’ll need to hire a scooter or (better yet) a driver for the day – especially if you plan to enjoy a rum coconut or two.

We’ve made it to the final day of the Palawan itinerary! Even though that’s a little bit sad, don’t worry – it’s going to end on a high.

El Nido’s Tour A is the one that most people book onto first (probably for obvious reasons). I say save this one until last so that you leave with fresh memories of the bluest lagoons and beautiful beaches.

Tour A has the most photogenic stops of all. With three stunning lagoons, a stop at 7 Commando Island and a beach you won’t want to leave, it’s a real treat.

It’s the perfect way to end your Palawan trip and one that you won’t want to miss during your time in the Philippines.  Book your tour in advance here.

This Palawan itinerary has, of course, just scraped the surface.

If you have a little more time in Palawan, take a few days to enjoy the beaches and meet the local people. There’s plenty more to explore in the areas around El Nido and Coron.

Yes, many people visit Palawan for the island hopping tours and move on to the next spot as soon as they’re done. But, there’s SO much more to Palawan than its boats and beaches (as incredible as they are!).

If you want more inspiration for your trip and to see this Palawan itinerary in action, check out my Philippines playlists on YouTube. Warning: you might end up booking a flight!

About Jodie Marie Dewberry

Jodie has been travelling the world full time since 2017, sharing the most unique places in the world along with tips for living as a digital nomad. She is a passionate wildlife photographer and has worked with a number of prominent travel brands, including airlines, tourism boards, hotels and tour operators.

11 thoughts on “The Ultimate One Week Palawan Itinerary: Exploring The Philippines’ El Nido & Coron”

Palawan is really such a beautiful island, and I am planning to go there this year. I am glad I have read this blog, I am really looking forward to trying out these exciting activities in there. Thank you for sharing the beauty of Palawan.

If you are looking for travel promo deals and packages, visit https://unlideals.com/

What a great itinerary!! My husband and I are planning a trip to the Philippines this summer and I just want to follow your advice exactly ? it sounds perfect. My one question is, what airport is closest to the activities you mentioned in Coron and El Nido? Would you fly into PPS and out of USU?

I’m so glad it was helpful and so happy you’re going to the Philippines – you’ll have an amazing time! We flew into Puerto Princesa and took a shuttle up, but I believe the El Nido airport is open now. We flew back to Manila from Coron. :)

Hi! It is very helpful to read this blog. I’ve been dreaming this tour for many times but, after this i am definitely go next year! Can’t wait to go there and explore Palawan more:)

Thank you Grace. I’m so excited for you and hope you have an amazing time! It’s such an incredibly beautiful place :)

I love your blog and thanks for sharing!! We are planning to go to Palawan this summer. Would you please tell me where each of your photos were taken. They look amazing!!

One reality check, I am 100 yards from Corong Corong Beach. See pics if I can find a way to post here or on Facebook.

Wow, amazing loved your blog very much interesting to read. Excited to visit this place to experience an adventure. Thanks for sharing this with us.

I booked a flight in Puerto Princesa in December as a birthday gift to myself haha. I’m gonna stay there for a week. It’s my first time. So based on your blog and the other blogs I have read, would it be okay to visit famous towns and stay on each of the town (e.g. if I stay 3 days in Puerto Princesa book a hotel there then if I go to El Nido next I’d book another hotel)? Thank you!

I saw once the visual images of Palawan. I’m planning to have my vacation in Palawan once I find my leisure. BTW, your blog was imformative and a wholesome content… I just wanna ask if how could I get there and what shoud be the possible expenses once I decided to go at Palawan?

Jode’s “The Ultimate One Week Palawan Itinerary” is a fantastic guide to exploring the stunning beauty of El Nido and Coron in the Philippines. Her detailed itinerary and travel tips provide a roadmap for an unforgettable week-long adventure, ensuring travelers make the most of their visit to these tropical paradises.

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The ultimate Palawan itinerary for 14 days in The Philippines + tips!

In this blog, you will find the ultimate itinerary for 14 days travelling in Palawan. Palawan is an archipelago of the Philippines. We had two weeks in the Philippines and decided to spend it entirely on Palawan. This was the perfect amount of time to relax but also to enjoy all the beautiful things that can be found on this island! Below you will find our backpackers Palawan itinerary and additional travel info and tips.

The ultimate itinerary for Palawan

Map of palawan.

Click on the photo to see detailed planning of our Palawan itinerary.

This itinerary for Palawan is the following: 

Manilla – Puerto Princesa – Port Barton – El Nido – Buhay Isla – Coron – Manilla

Itinerary Palawan: Manila & Puerto Princesa (1 night)

After a short stopover in Manila, we flew to Puerto Princesa. Do you do this too? Tip: ensure a minimum of 5 hours between your arrival time and the next departure time. Flights can sometimes be delayed and the terminals of Manila airport are wide apart of each other with a bad connection. In the evening we arrived in Puerto Princesa where we stayed for only one night. It’s not a beautiful city and also not very safe.

What to do in Puerto Princessa on Palawan?

We didn’t feel like staying here longer, but if you do, you can always visit the village of Sabang on the underground river or visit the special open prison . Puerto Princesa is located by the sea but has no beautiful beaches, you have to go to the west coast. Beautiful beaches nearby are Honda Bay (30 min by scooter), Nagtabon Beach (35 min by scooter), Talaudyong Beach (40 min scooter) and Monkey Beach Sabang (50 min by scooter).

Itinerary Palawan: Port Barton (4 days, 4 nights)

Just 3.5 hours north of Puerto Princesa, the sleepy village of Port Barton is located on a beautiful beach. Previously only a settlement of some fishermen, nowadays there are some small-scale hotels and guesthouses. This is the ideal place to get used to the heat of the Philippines and to recover from jetlag. There is not much to do here, but it’s super idyllic.

What to do in Port Barton, Palawan?

Relax in a hammock with fresh coconut. In this area, there is only a few hours a day of electricity available. We stayed here for four days and Ries got his diving certificate. Four days was perfect for us when we would have stayed longer, it might have gotten a bit boring, but shorter we wouldn’t have time to really relax.

Click here to read all about Port Barton !

Itinerary Palawan: El Nido (2 days, 3 nights)

Another four hours by bus towards the North and you will arrive in El Nido. Port Barton is sleepy and quiet, but El Nido is completely discovery by tourism. Because of all the tourism, we didn’t like it as much as Port Barton. However, there are many beautiful boat trips that you can make, delicious eateries and good hotels. In addition, electricity is available 24/7 and there is hot water, not bad! We have spent 2 full days here and they were fine. We went to Nacpan and Marimegmeg Beach and we did boat tour Tour A. Highly recommended!

Click here to read all about our time on El Nido !

Itinerary Palawan: Buhay Isla (3 days, 2 nights)

From El Nido, we went with the organization Buhay Isla three days sailing. We slept on the most fantastic islands, saw the most beautiful coral and got extremely good food. One of the highlights of Palawan for us. We didn’t want to miss this!

Which boat company to choose for a sailing trip in Palawan?

For us three days (two nights) was just right, it is primitive and after three days a shower and real bed is very nice! In addition, it is also quite expensive (292 euro pp) and a trip of five days would not have become cheaper. Do you want to do a longer trip, check out, for instance,  Tao Expeditions. Or have a look at new kid on the block Big Dream Boatman , another amazing organization! 

A unique experience: going on an island hopping tour in the Philippines with Buhay Isla !

Itinerary Palawan: Coron Town (4 days, 3 nights)

The Buhay Isla tour ended in Coron Town, a town on a northern island of Palawan. We were here for four days where we celebrated my birthday. Coron, unlike El Nido, does not have many beaches but has beautiful nature. In the end, a day less in Coron, wouldn’t have been a problem for us.

Coron versus El Nido

If you have doubts about which of the two you have to visit the longest, then here’s the answer: If you go for nature, beautiful diving and fascinating boat trips, choose Coron. Do you go for a lively nightlife, beautiful beaches and a city with many nice places in the neighbourhood, stay longer in El Nido.

Tip: Read all about Coron in Palawan!

Manila (1 day, 1 night)

From Coron, we flew to Manila, which is within an hour. We didn’t want to spend too much time here, so we flew to our next destination (Ho Chi Minh) the next day. Manila is known as an ugly city with a lot of poverty and crime. We did not think it was a beautiful city either and did not make too much effort to see much of the city. It’s grey, has hardly any highlights and the centre is not known as very safe. Our hotel was close to the airport, which was fine, but if we had been here longer, we would have gone for a more luxurious hotel with a large swimming pool.

Click here to read all about our favorite hotels in The Philippines!

Other cool stops for your Philippines itinerary besides Palawan!

Had we had more time in the Philippines, would we have gone to the following places? For sure, yes, or at least, to most of them. However, the Philippines is a very big and stretched country, so you have to make some hard choices!

Cebu – Diving

Cebu is an island that is still on our bucket list, and mainly because of the village of Moalboal. Here you seem to be able to dive very well. Cebu city is very busy and not so nice. In addition, you can swim with whale sharks in Oslob, another village on Cebu. We strongly advise against this: the circumstances under which this happens are bad for the animals.

Bohol – Chocolate Hills

You will visit Bohol to see the famous Chocolate Hills. This beautiful natural phenomenon consists of a thousand hills that, in the months of March and April, turn brown due to the discoloured grass.

Boracay – Very touristy

We strongly decided against visiting Boracay and were happy with this choice. This is the most touristy spot in the Philippines. The beaches are beautiful, but you share this with hundreds of other Asian tourists … It is, however, the place to go, when you want to party a lot.

Siargao – Surfing

Do you enjoy surfing? Make sure to make the trip to this surfing paradise. It is a bit out of the direction, but that also means that there are few tourists! The food here seems to be super too. We definitely want to go there one day!

Siquijor –  Cool Vibes

Last but not least, the quiet Siquijor. Here we MUST go one day! It seems to be nice and quiet here, with exactly the right relaxing vibe. Locals say that this is El Nido from 30 years ago. Sounds good, does not it?

Not sure if you should go the Philipines yet? Read this blog containing 8 reasons why you should go to Palawan !

Transport to Palawan!

Getting to Palawan might sometimes be a challenge since flights are not always reliable. Domestic flights can sometimes have mayor delays or are suddenly cancelled. This is always a risk when flying domestically in the Philippines. However, once, you reach your destination, it is very easy to travel around!

How to fly to Palawan

There are several daily flights from Europe to the Philippines. The flight duration from for instance Amsterdam to Manila is +/- 15 hours. Click here for the most recent flight deals to the Philippines!

The Philippines consists of hundreds of islands. Island hopping is a lot less easy than often seems. Flying is sometimes necessary if you don’t want to sit on a boat for days. Airline tickets in the Philippines are not as cheap as in other Asian countries (prices from € 60 to € 150). However, when you book on time, the prices are relatively low. Only at the airport or a few days in advance is not recommended.

Some airlines in the Philippines:

• Cebu Pacific (Cebgo), great company, we flew with them from Busuanga (Coron) to Manila.
• AirAsia (Philipines) . Always try to avoid AirAsia in the Philippines !! In other countries they are fine, but in the Philippines, they almost always are delayed. We had more than 9 hours of delay. In addition, the aircraft is very dirty.
• PAL   (Philipines Airlines). Slightly more expensive but good service!
• Air Swift . This is a relatively new player in the Filipino market. Currently, they only serve the route Manila-El Nido (and are also the only ones flying on El Nido). Soon they will also operate the Cebu – El Nido and Manila – Secogon routes. Slightly more expensive but the convenience of going directly to El Nido instead of via Puerto Princesa.
• Skyjet Airlines . We have heard bad stories about this airline (flights that are cancelled and where you can not get money back, bad planes and extremely high costs for baggage). So we deliberately did not fly with this.

Using buses and minivans as a way of transport on Palawan

If you travel over Palawan, you will most likely sometimes catch the bus/minivan . The roads on Palawan are bad, winding and well … no fun. It can easily take 2 hours to go 50km. The buses in Palawan are also not in a great state, and never drive on time! We have mainly travelled with minivans. This is slightly more expensive, but often a bit faster, much safer and you will be picked up from your hotel.

You can often book a minivan at your hotel, but you will pay a surcharge. Booking directly by calling  SBE for example (the only company with somewhat positive reviews) is cheaper. Keep in mind that you will almost always be picked up too late.

Travelling by boat around Palawan

Transportation by boat is also possible in Palawan. The sea around Palawan is sometimes very rough and boats are not always in good condition. We didn’t take a boat (except for the amazing three-day excursion with Buhay Isla).

Make sure to rent a scooter on Palawan.

For small distances, a scooter is perfect on Palawan. The freedom to drive yourself and discover places is super! Renting a scooter at Palawan is very cheap, no more than 8 euros per day. Keep in mind that Filipino scooters, in Europe (and therefore for your health insurance) are seen as motor because of their high cc. In case an accident happens, your insurance won’t cover this most likely.

Travel tips for Palawan

Getting around in Palawan is quite easy and straight forward. However, below you find some tips just to be aware of while travelling through this beautiful place.

1. The travel season for Palawan

In the Philippines, it is always warm, but it is a tropical country, with a rainy season and typhoon season. Especially the latter you don’t want to experience. Typhoon season coincides with the rainy season and is from June to October. In November it can also sometimes rain well, but we did not suffer from this.

2. Don’t run out of cash on Palawan

The currency in the Philippines is the Peso. Currently, you get for 1 Euro, 65 Peso. Getting cash out of the ATM on Palawan is not easy everywhere. In Port Barton, they don’t have ATMs, and you almost never can pay with a credit card or debit card. So take enough money with you. In El Nido, Puerto Princesa and Coron there are cash machines, although it can happen that some of them are broken. We went to the ATM in advance at the Domestic terminal in Manila, which is highly recommended (best exchange rate also).

3. How much does food costs?

The Philippines are cheap, not as cheap as Thailand or Indonesia, but still very well priced. We paid an average of € 29 per night (prices per night are shown in the diagram above). Food was on average 3 euros per meal (pp) and public transport is very cheap. A daily activity (boat trip) cost 10 euros. Our excursion with Buhay Isla was the only really expensive part of this holiday. We paid 292 euros per person for 3 days and 2 nights. This includes all the food, drinks (water and rum), equipment and access to nature reserves. It was more than worth the money for us!

4. WiFi on Palawan

Most hotels offer WiFi. This is often slow Wi-Fi that also sometimes fails, but sending a message or with some patience, google might work. Anyway, Netflix and chilling might be a problem since the Wifi connection is not that strong and reliable

5. The best SIM Card for travellers in The Philippines

We bought a Philippine SIM card on arrival so that we could call locally, but also always have an internet connection. We bought this at the airport, there are several stands where SIM cards are sold. There are roughly 2 providers, Smart and Globe. What is crazy is that you can only call people who have the same provider as you. That’s why all the Philippines have a phone with two SIM cards in it. Companies therefore often have 2 numbers. The connection is not always good with both cards. We had a Smart prepaid card with 4 GB and paid around 15 euros for this.

Click here for more travel blogs on the Philippines !

More blogs about the Philippines

Eight reasons why you absolutely must go to the philippine island of palawan, all about port barton the philippines: tips + our experiences from palawan, all about el nido on palawan in the philippines: tips and experiences.

describing things ugly is such an ugly attitude.Choose your wording carefully sometimes.

I didn’t see it is ugly, but that it is known as ugly. Read carefully please.

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Palawan : Budget + Itinerary Guide for First-Timers

WHAT'S IN THIS GUIDE?

DID YOU KNOW?

Palawan has been featured in many different posts circulating around its magnificent beaches. It is home to one of the 7 wonders in the world.

A lot of islands that compose the Philippines belong to Palawan.

Traveling to Palawan for the first time?  This detailed and curated travel guide will make it easy for you to plan a trip, save money and maximize your time. This guide will also make sure that you get the best out of your money while traveling in Palawan.

Scroll down to read must-know travel tips before you go, followed by a sample itinerary + budget breakdown, recommended hotels/places to stay, things to do/places to visit, and lots of extra travel tips.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by YT: Shellwanders Vlog (@shellwanders) on Dec 7, 2017 at 5:28pm PST

Get Started

How to get to Palawan  — By plane, Puerto Princesa, Palawan can be reached on a one (1) hour flight from Cebu. It serves direct flights to popular domestic destinations including Davao, Cagayan de Oro and Manila.

Always book your hotel early  — Avail low rates and avoid fully-booked rooms by booking online as soon 2-3 months before your travel departure. Click below to compare discounts and read reviews by other travelers.

Check discounts and prices online  — Save money by checking discounts on tours & airport/hotel transfers. Booking before you leave also saves you time & avoids the hassles of bringing large amounts of cash during your actual trip.

Philippines 3G/4G internet data sim card & pocket WiFi rental

🏷️ 12% OFF 4G/3G WiFi (MY Airport Pick Up) for Philippines

🏷️ 5% OFF  4G WiFi (MNL Airport Pick Up/Delivery) for the Philippines

Spend 2 days or more  — While it’s possible to explore the highlights of the city in a day, consider planning at least 2 days to tour the island. Go for 4 days for a more relaxed trip.

Save More while Traveling  — I’ve included a lot of money saving tips on this guide. You can actually save more when you do not include attractions that has entrance fees. You can achieve cheaper expenses by knowing where to find and book the attractions.

Getting around Palawan  — There are a lot of transport and tour options available whether you want to go with a private tour or a do-it-yourself trip. You can even go full local and try the motorcycle/tricycle commute to get around or stick with packaged tours that can offer a hassle-free experience. Grab is not offered in this area.

See more blogs & travel guides

Guide to Honda Bay Island Tour For First Timers

Travel Guide to Ardent Hot Spring

Travel to Sunken Cemetery

Travel Guide to Walkway to the Old Volcano

Travel Guide to Camiguin White Island

Pre-Travel Guide

✓ How to get to Palawan ✓ How to get around Palawan? ✓ Should I book my Palawan hotel online? ✓ What to prepare for a trip to Palawan? ✓ How to find cheap flights to Palawan? ✓ When is the best time to visit? ✓ Travel Must Haves ✓ Money-saving tips

How to get to Palawan

Entry point manila (naia).

✓ By Airplane (Cebu pacific, Airasia or Philippine Airlines)

• Direct flights area available.
• Travel time is around 1 hr and 15 mins.

✓ By Ferry (2-GO)

• It has 2 trips in a week . (Tuesday and Friday at 1:30pm)
• Travel Time is about 30 hours.
• Minimum Price is around PHP 1200  (SGD 30, $ 24, € 20)  – PHP 1800  (SGD 45, $ 36, € 30).

ENTRY POINT CEBU (Mactan Cebu International Airport)

Entry point  cagayan de oro (laguindingan airport).

• Flights are available with a stop-over in Cebu area .
• Flight Duration is 2 Hour 30 Minutes.

MAP ON HOW TO GET TO PALAWAN

How to get around Palawan

By tricycle.

• Offers the cheapest way to travel around Palawan.
• Maximum of 4 passengers . 
• On average, you can expect to pay PHP 10.00   (SGD 0.25 ,$ 0.2, € 0.17)  per person.

By Motor Bike Rental

• Recommending you to use a mode of transport with a driver.
• Small car rental price starts at PHP 700  (SGD 17.5 ,$ 14, € 12) per day.

By Car Rental

• Small car rental price starts at PHP 2500   (SGD 62.5 ,$ 50, € 42) per day.

By Bus and Mini-Van

• Most fares costs around PHP 400   (SGD 62.5 ,$ 50, € 42) . Standard trip from Puerto Princesa to El Nido.
• Travel time takes around 6 to 9 hours.

By Private Van

• Puerto Princesa to El-Nido costs around  PHP 600   (SGD 15 ,$ 12, € 10)
• It can accommodate up to 8-10 passengers .

By Ferries and Boats

• El Nido to Coron. Most fares costs around PHP 2000   (SGD 50 ,$ 40, € 34) . 

Should I book my Palawan Hotel Online?

My answer will always be YES . You can save money by checking discounts online. Booking before you leave also saves you time & avoids the hassles of bringing large amounts of cash during your actual trip.

What to prepare for a trip to Palawan?

Sunblock — If you don’t have a plan in getting yourself tan, then bring some sunblock to protect your skin from the suns UV rays.

Hats and Eye wear  — Protect your eyes from the heat of the sun.

Cellphone Waterproof Case  — Philippines nationals can enjoy visa-free travel in Palawan, for up to 30 days.

Rent a GoPro – If you are in Cebu, my friend can rent you one here .

How to find cheap flights to Palawan?

Start your search on  Wego, Momondo, and Skyscanner .

Also, check Palawan promo alerts several weeks or months ahead of your trip if you are planning your trip early. The cheapest promos are sold up to a year in advance of the travel/flight departure date & are often only available if you book directly with the airline.

When is the Best Time to Visit?

In my experience, March – June and October are the best months to visit Palawan.

Travel Must-Haves

✓ Google Map App – A life-saver for me because without it, I might get lost.

✓ Google Translate – Super powerful app. Translate anything.

✓ Gps-Guided App – Tour the city like a local with this app.

✓ Sunscreen – Protect yourself from sunburn or much worse – Cancer.

✓ Pocket Wifi or Sim Card – The convenient of searching anything is a go-to. Please don’t forget this baby. It is a life-saver for me though.

Money Saving Tips

Get a good map and explore the city on your own tour  — You can tour the city at your own pace plus you can choose from a variety of options. There are a lot of awesome things to do in Palawan that doesn’t cost a dime.

Drive a motorcycle  — This is the cheapest way to get around.

Stay at hostels   or airbnb — If you are travelling alone or by group of 3, hostels are best for you. But, if you are travelling in group of 4 or more, then airbnb is best for you. I have calculated the difference and airbnb ones are best for group of travellers.

Where to stay in Palawan

Type in the box below your designated location of the hotel or the hotel name and your preferred dates.

During in El Nido, we stayed at Rovic’s Tourist Hotel . The hotel can accommodate not just a maximum of 4 person in a room but 6-8 persons in a room. Its affordable and they have a cool stairs.

PUERTO PRINCESA

My co-workers and I stayed at Michelle Pension House . 

5D / 4N Palawan Itinerary

Please take note that we have booked this thru a travel agency for about 60 pax.

Day 1: Arrival to Puerto Princesa + Travel to El Nido

Day 2: el nido island hopping (package a&b).

Day 3: Check out. Proceed to Underground River Tour

Day 4: Honda Bay Island Hopping + Puerto Princesa Day Tour

Day 5: Going Home

5d / 4n palawan budget expenses.

Since this is a travel and tour itinerary provided by Aboex Travel & Tours, I can only provide you some details of expenses. This package costs around 15,000 php for each person.

We were about 60 persons.

Inclusions of the said expenses are the following:

Round trip airfare from Cebu-Puerto Princesa 2 Nights at Michelle pension 2 Nights at Rovic’s Tourist Hotel 4 breakfasts,4 lunch and 4 Dinner Underground River Tour Honda Bay Island Hopping + City Tour El Nido Island Hopping A & B All applicable entrance fees Tour guide during tour Travel Insurance Van transfers all throughout the tour

Environmental fee –  150 PHP   ( SGD 3.75 ,$3, € 2.5 )

Snorkel Fees –  150 PHP   ( SGD 3.75 ,$3, € 2.5 )

UNDERGROUND RIVER FEES

1. Visitor’s Entry Permit (VEP)

Puerto Princesa Underground River entrance fee – 500 PHP (about €8.00) Environmental fee – 150 PHP   ( SGD 3.75 ,$3, € 2.5 ) Audio guide fee –  85 PHP   ( SGD 2.2 ,$1.7, € 1.42 )

2. Boat to Underground River – 1300 PHP  ( SGD 32.5 ,$26, € 22)(good for 6 persons)

3. Transportation to/from Sabang Wharf (estimate only)

Local – 145 PHP   ( SGD 3.75 ,$3, € 2.5  ) Foreigner – 215 PHP   ( SGD 5.4 ,$4.3, € 3.6  ) 

Places to Visit

✓ New 7 Wonders of the World known as the Underground River

✓ Island Hopping at Honda Bay

✓ Plaza Cuartel and Church

✓ Snorkeling at Pambato Island

✓ 13ft-18ft Crocs at Crocodile Farm

✓ Mitra’s Ranch

✓ Bakers Hill

✓ Island Hopping at El nido

✓ Island Hopping at Coron  

Puerto Princesa ,Palawan festivals are events that visitors look forward to seeing because of the fun activities that await and the liveliness of the celebrations.

Pangalipay sa Baybay

• Pangalipay sa Baybay is a Puerto Princesa festival that is celebrated at the beginning of the second quarter of the year.
•   The Bay Walk of Puerto Princesa is the place where the Pangalipay sa Baybay is celebrated, right on the beautiful beaches of the capital and it starts off with live bands performing.

Seafood Festival

• Puerto Princesa is known for having among the best and freshest seafood in the entire country and what better way to showcase this than to have a Seafood Festival.
• 3rd week of April is when the Seafood Festival is held and the best part of this Puerto Princesa festival.

Tips, Notes and Reminders

Always be alert and careful in everything you do.

Bring extra clothes. It’s very hot.

Bring some packed food with you to save more. If you do not want, food and souvenir stalls are available.

Bring water so that you are always hydrated.

Personal accessories and gadgets are not advisable to bring during island hopping tours.

Pack light.

MAP to help you locate places nearby

DID YOU ENJOY THIS POST? PIN IT FOR LATER!!

Have you ever visited any of the 7 wonders of the world? Try the One in Palawan!

Always remember to “ Develop your One Days to Day Ones! “

Shelley Mae

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Sample el nido itineraries for 3, 4, 5, 6, days tour or more.

Looking for detailed sample El Nido itinerary, things to do and tourist spots in Palawan? Check out these sample El Nido itineraries to help you plan your trip!

Sample el nido itineraries for 3, 4, 5, 6 days tour + things to do & tourist spots, ready to explore el nido, palawan let's get started.

3D/2N: El Nido Itinerary (3 Days and 2 Nights)

Day 1: arrival in el nido / explore the town.

• 06:00 AM - Departure from Manila to Puerto Princesa City, Palawan
• 07:00 AM - Arrival at Puerto Princesa City Airport
• 08:00 AM - Travel from Puerto Princesa to El Nido [ BOOK TRANSPORTATION HERE! ]
• 12:00 NN - Lunch at the rest stop on the way to El Nido
• 02:00 PM - Arrive in El Nido, Check-in at hotel/resort
• 03:00 PM - Explore the town, eat, enjoy the sunset at Corong-Corong Beach
• 07:00 PM - Dinner at El Nido Art Cafe
• 08:00 PM - Have some drinks
• 09:30 PM - Back at the hotel/resort
• 10:00 PM - Sleep

DAY 2: EL NIDO TOUR A - BOOK THIS TOUR HERE!

• 07:00 AM - Breakfast
• 08:30 AM - Start of El Nido Tour A
• Hidden Lagoon
• Shimizu Island
• Payong-payong Beach
• 7 Commando Beach
• 04:30 AM - End of El Nido Tour A
• 05:30 PM - Back at the hotel/resort and freshen-up
• 07:00 PM - Dinner, have some drinks, night out with friends
• 09:30 PM - Back at the hotel/resort and freshen-up
• 10:00 AM - Sleep

DAY 3: TARAW PEAK AND DEPARTURE

• 06:30 AM - Breakfast
• 07:00 AM - Take a tricycle to Ferrata Nature's Canopy Walk
• 08:00 AM - Trek to Taraw Peak via Canopy Walk [ SEE RATES AND BOOK HERE! ]
• Enjoy the view of El Nido town and Bacuit Bay from Taraw Peak
• 10:00 AM - End of Taraw Peak trek
• 10:30 AM - Travel back to hotel/resort
• 11:00 AM - Back to the hotel, freshen-up, prepare for hotel check-out
• 12:00 NN - Check-out and have lunch
• 01:30 PM - Travel from El Nido to Puerto Princesa City [ BOOK TRANSPORTATION HERE! ]
• 06:30 PM - Arrive at Puerto Princesa Airport
• 08:30 PM - Travel back to Manila

4D/3N: El Nido Itinerary (4 Days and 3 Nights)

• 02:00 PM - Arrive in El Nido, hotel/resort check-in and freshen-up
• 03:00 PM - Explore the town and sunset viewing

DAY 2: EL NIDO TOUR A - [ SEE TOUR RATES AND AVAILABILITY HERE ]

• 04:30 PM - End of El Nido Tour A
• 05:00 PM - Back the the hotel/resort / freshen-up
• 07:00 PM - Dinner, party, have some drinks
• 09:30 PM - Back at the the hotel/resort

DAY 3: EL NIDO TOUR C - [ SEE TOUR RATES AND AVAILABILITY HERE ]

• 08:30 AM - Start of El Nido Tour C
• Helicopter Island
• Matinloc Shrine
• Secret Beach
• Talisay Beach
• Hidden Beach
• 04:30 AM - End of El Nido Tour C
• 05:00 AM - Catch the sunset at Corong-Corong Beach
• 07:00 PM - Dinner and souvenir shopping
• 09:00 AM - Back at the hotel and sleep

DAY 4: TARAW PEAK AND DEPARTURE

• 07:30 AM - Take a tricycle to Ferrata Nature's Canopy Walk
• 10:30 AM - Take a tricycle back to your hotel/resort
• 11:00 AM - Back at the hotel, freshen-up and prepare for check-out
• 12:00 NN - Hotel check-out and have lunch
• 01:00 PM - Travel from El Nido to Puerto Princesa City [ BOOK TRANSPORTATION HERE! ]
• 06:00 PM - Arrive at Puerto Princesa Airport
• 08:00 PM - Travel back to Manila

5D/4N: El Nido Itinerary (5 Days and 4 Nights)

Day 4: el nido tour b or d.

• 08:30 AM - Start of El Nido Tour B
• Snake Island
• Pinagbuyutan Island
• Pangulasian Island
• Cudugnon Cave
• Cathedral Cave
• 04:30 AM - End of El Nido Tour B
• 08:30 AM - Start of El Nido Tour D
• Cadlao Lagoon
• Paradise Beach
• Natnat Beach
• Small Lagoon
• 04:30 AM - End of El Nido Tour D
• 07:00 PM - Dinner and have a few drinks

DAY 5: TARAW PEAK AND DEPARTURE

6D/5N OR MORE: El Nido Itinerary (6 Days and 5 Nights or More)

To help you plan your coron adventure, please check out these posts:.

• Coron Travel Guide with Budget and Itinerary for First-timers
• Sample Coron Itineraries for 3, 4, 5, 6, Days Tour or More!

San Vicente Land Tour Itinerary

• 08:00 am - hotel pick-up
• Roman Catholic Church
• Municipal Hall
• Kayak Inandeng River
• Lunch at Long Beach
• Bato ni Ningning
• 04:00 pm - end of the tour

Boayan Island Tour Itinerary

• Niapuray Reef
• Kambingan Beach
• Evergreen Beach
• Lunch at Evergreen Beach
• Starfish Point
• Pulang Bato Reef

I hope these SAMPLE EL NIDO PALAWAN ITINERARIES help you plan an amazing and memorable El Nido adventure! Please feel free to adjust the itineraries depending on the things you want to do El Nido and the activities and experiences that best interest you. Also, please adjust it depending on your flight arrival and departure times.

For more travel tips on how to get there, top things to do in el nido, tourist spots, recommended hotels and resorts, sample budget breakdown and many more, please check out my el nido palawan travel guide blog for first-timers ..

• Sample BORACAY Itineraries
• Sample CEBU Itineraries
• Sample BOHOL Itineraries
• Sample BACOLOD Itineraries
• Sample DUMAGUETE-SIQUIJOR Itineraries
• Sample SIARGAO Itineraries
• Sample CORON Itineraries
• Sample PUERTO PRINCESA Itineraries
• Sample LA UNION Itineraries

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Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

Coron Palawan Travel Guide: Island Tours + Hotels + Itinerary

Best Time to Go to Coron

Dry and summer season | november to may, climate and weather, what to wear, how to get to coron, getting around coron, by tricycle, by motorbike, by shared/private tour, where to stay in coron, types of accommodation, neighborhoods and areas, accommodation highlights, what to see and do in coron.

• Visit Kayangan Lake and View Deck
• Swim in Barracuda Lake
• Chill On Culion’s Beautiful Beaches
• Attend the Coron Calauit Safari
• Go Wreck Diving
• Hike up Mt. Tapyas
• Take a dip at Maquinit Hot Springs

What to Eat and Drink in Coron

Local cuisine, recommended best restaurants and bars, practical information and tips, what to pack, sample itinerary in coron, day 1: arrival + trekking + hot springs, day 2: island hopping + firefly watching.

• Day 3: Safari Park Visit + Sightseeing

Day 4: Shopping + Departure

Discover the beautiful island of Coron, Palawan. Find out the best time to go, how to go, top tourist spots, where to stay, and how to plan an itinerary with this travel guide. 

There’s more to Palawan than just the world-famous islands and beaches of El Nido and the Puerto Princesa Underground River tours . Coron is a tropical island in the province of Palawan in the Philippines.

Coron, one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines , is best known for world-class World War II-era wreck diving, but the island also offers limestone karst landscapes, beautiful Palawan beaches , crystal-clear freshwater lakes, and shallow-water coral reefs.

• Browse Coron tours and experiences that you can add to your itinerary
• See other Palawan tours you can try

Coron is a separate group of islands from the main Palawan island. All of the islands here are part of the Calamian Archipelago in Northern Palawan. Often compared to El Nido, a popular Palawan destination, Coron has a unique charm of its own

While El Nido is popular with couples who want to have their honeymoon in the Philippines and beach lovers, Coron is a bit more laid-back and is suitable for family vacations and diving adventures. 

See our popular Coron Vacation Packages

Budget-friendly 4-day coron palawan package at skylodge resort with flights from manila & tour, stress-free 5-day coron palawan package at bacau bay resort with flights from manila, comfy 4-day coron palawan budget package at ruhe suites with flights from manila, tour & transfers.

Coron's town proper is smaller and quieter than El Nido's. However, you'll find a lot of amazing things to do here within the surrounding islands and waters and on the main island.

You can hop on a boat and head to the stunning islands for quality snorkeling, scuba or wreck diving , and beach camping. You can also hike up a mountain for a stunning sunset or dip in a hot spring .

There are a handful of established package tours, where visitors can quickly join up with other travelers to see some of  Coron's top tourist spots . These tours are mostly inclusive of pickup and drop-off at downtown Coron, lunch, and boat transfers for a convenient and hassle-free  island hopping in the Philippines .

There are two main seasons in Coron. First is the dry season which happens from November to May. Second is the rainy season which occurs from July to September.

A good thing about the weather in Coron is that it has a stable tropical climate, which makes it an excellent place to go to during the summer season.

See our popular Coron Tours and Activities

Coron island hopping tour to kayangan lake & barracuda lake | palawan super ultimate package, private busuanga airport to or from any hotel in coron town van transfer service, shared coron busuanga airport to or from coron palawan town proper transfer service.

If you're going to visit Coron with its gorgeous beaches in mind, go during the dry season. You'll be able to enjoy water activities such as snorkeling and diving without the added hassle of getting the activity canceled due to unforeseen weather conditions.

Visiting during the summer season is also best if you plan to do some sightseeing in Coron Town. Most tourist spots are open for the public and accommodate big groups for private tours.

Coron'shas tropical weather. It's relatively sunny if you plan to visit during the summer, with less chance of unexpected rainfall and thunderstorms. The warmest months are from March to May, while the month with the chilliest weather is in October.

The average temperature during the warmest months falls around 29°C. Meanwhile, the average temperature during the months with chilly weather falls around 22-23°C. 

Here’s an average overview of the monthly temperature in Coron:

Source:  NOAA

During the summer season, it's best to wear beach outfits such as swimsuit, rashguard, and slippers. Make sure to bring other beach necessities such as goggles and a cap. Another essential thing to bring during your trip to Coron is an umbrella. It's beneficial in case it rains, or the sun is causing too much heat.  

Coron is easily reachable in two ways: by flights and by ferry. For flights to Coron , their main airport is the Busuanga Airport. For ferry routes, boats go back and forth to their main pier, the Uson Island Public Pier. It's now convenient to experience Coron to the fullest with these many options. Continue reading this section for more details: 

See our popular Coron Transfers

Coron busuanga palawan airport to or from any hotel in coron town private van transfer service.

You can reach Coron via Busuanga (USU), formerly known as the Francisco B. Reyes Airport. From here, you can now visit Coron Town, Coron Island, and Busuanga. 

Major local airlines such as  Philippine Airlines ,  Cebu Pacific , and  Skyjet , have daily trips to Coron via  Manila ,  Cebu and other parts of the Philippines (and vice versa). Here's detailed information about these flights:

From Manila

If you're already in Manila, going to the island is convenient. You can reach Coron airport by taking a Manila to Busuanga flight with an estimated one hour travel time.

Of course, it depends on whether you plan to join a non-stop flight or a connecting flight. Make sure to compare rates and book the ideal time for your itinerary. Afterward, you can book a Coron airport transfer to get to your resort.

If you're coming from Cebu, the best way to reach Coron Airport is by taking a direct flight. The estimated travel time going to Coron is an hour and a half. You can also take a connecting flight if you want to stop over in Manila for a bit.

From Pampanga

If you're in Pampanga and you want to go directly to Coron, you can take a non-stop flight with an estimated travel time of an hour and a half. It’s also good to know that most connecting flights from Manila usually stop at Pampanga before going to Coron.

There are also flights to El Nido from Coron, and flights to Puerto Princesa from Coron available on some airlines.

By Ferry  

You can opt to ride a ferry going to Coron's main pier, Uson Island Public Pier. It's the best option if you're ready for a long trip ahead and you want to save some money. However, take note that some of these routes are in strategic departure locations, such as Manila, Puerto Princesa, and El Nido.

2Go Travel has weekly trips bound for Coron every Friday and Tuesday, and every Tuesday and Friday bound for Manila with 28 hours total travel time. Atienza Shipping Lines also offers ferry trips bound for Coron from Manila and El Nido.

Departure from Manila is every Saturday, arriving in Coron on Sunday. Departure from El Nido is every Wednesday and arrival in Coron on Thursday.

From Puerto Princesa

If you're in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, going to Coron is pretty much straightforward. You can take a ferry going to the Uson Island Public Pier courtesy of 2Go Travel.

The boat leaves for Coron every Saturday and Wednesday and for Puerto Princesa every Saturday and Wednesday. Total travel time takes about 16 hours. Book in advance so you can get the best beds on the ferry.

From El Nido 

You can also ride a ferry going to Coron from El Nido and vice versa. Montenegro Lines offer ferry rides with a total travel time of 3 to 4 hours. Atienza Shipping Lines also offers ferry trips from El Nido. Departure from El Nido is every Wednesday and arriving on Coron on Thursday.

There are private modes of transport you can also try if you want a safe and hassle-free experience. There are three types of transportation: tricycle, motorbike, and private shared/private tour boat if you're traveling around the island.

In downtown Coron, this is the primary mode of transportation. Fares going to and from the town proper is cheap regardless if you're going alone or you're with a group. You may opt to charter a tricycle and pay a fixed fare if you're planning to visit far locations such as Maquinit Hot Springs.

You can rent a motorbike if you're well-learned on how to maneuver it. It's not that expensive, and it gives you ample time to roam around the area. You can rent these motorbikes at local inns, or you may opt to find ones to rent online.

The best way to visit the islands of Coron is by joining a group tour or renting a private Coron island hopping  boat to tour you around. If you have many tourist spots listed in your must-visit list, joining a shared or private tour is highly recommended. You'll be able to do island-hopping in Coron without the hassle of finding a transfer to the next location. 

There are a lot of options when it comes to the place you’ll be staying in Coron. You can choose to stay in the town proper or near the island. Before that, you have to make sure you know the right type of accommodation for you and your group. Here are some of the types of accommodations in Coron:

Beach Resorts

If you're vying for accommodation with beachfront access, staying at a beach resort is recommended, especially if you're on your honeymoon in the Philippines . Coron is home to some of the best beach resorts in the Philippines . Depending on the budget type, beach resorts usually offer breakfast and has other facilities such as indoor pools and spas. Some beach resorts even have their diving center, giving you easy access to the top diving sites on the island.

If you're staying within Coron Town, there are numerous hotels in the area offering unique facilities depending on your budget. Philippines luxury vacation packages in Coron are often offered by properties with a pool and restaurant.

Mid-range hotels usually have en-suite bathrooms in their rooms and their private indoor pool as well. A lot of budget hotels have their restaurant, too, and offer basic amenities such as WiFi and TV.

No need to worry if you're a solo traveler or a budget backpacker, there are hostels within Coron town and near the beaches. Even though most of them offer dorm-types with shared bathrooms, they provide essential amenities such as wifi and toiletries. Hostels are offering free breakfast as well. They usually ask for a security deposit beforehand.

Vacation Rentals

If you're a big group looking for a place to stay, renting a house might be best. Most vacation rentals are guesthouses and offer amenities such as kitchen and laundry.

The good thing about renting a home is that you get the place to yourself, giving you ample freedom to roam around the tourist spots in Coron as a group.

Coron has a total of 23 barangays and is a first-class municipality in Palawan. You don't need to memorize all of them; all you need to know is its prominent neighborhoods and areas. It's so you'll be able to understand how to navigate around the town or island either by public or private transportation. 

Busuanga Island

There are also hotels near the islands south of Busuanga, offering a range of facilities highlighting the beauty of attractions such as Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon.

Where you'll be staying in Coron depends on the number of people you'll be staying with and your budget type. You also have to consider the neighborhood and its proximity to tourist spots.

In terms of budget, there are three ranges of Coron hotels: budget, mid-range, and luxury. Below is a list of the highly recommended hotels in Coron:

Budget Accommodations

An important factor in choosing the right accommodation for you in Coron is your budget. If you want a comfortable place to sleep, staying at hostels or inns might be better. These budget accommodations are highly recommended as they're within the city area and is in a safe neighborhood.

Coron Hilltop View Resort

Photo by Coron Hilltop View Resort

Staying at this beach resort is an excellent way to enjoy your stay in Coron without having to spend a lot. They offer magnificent views of the island and is close to Mount Tapyas. The rooms provided here blends with the atmosphere of the resort. What's more, they have an outdoor pool!

Coron Eco-Lodge

Within a few minutes' walks to Coron Shopping Building, this eco-lodge hotel promotes awareness on eco-tourism and sustainability. It's the perfect escape from the noise in the city as you get to relax with nature as your backdrop. Their rooms are highly-recommended for hotels and restaurants.

Fat Monkey Hostel

Staying at this hostel is best if you're looking for a place to stay where you can meet other people. It's located within a major highway and offers affordable rooms, ranging from dorm-type rooms and single rooms. They have a common area for socials and offers secure WiFi in their offices and the lobby area.

Mid-Range Accommodation

If what you're looking for is accommodations that are not that expensive but still offer a bit of VIP treatment, these mid-range accommodations are perfect for you. These three hotels have their own restaurant, an indoor/outdoor pool, and BBQ/kitchen facilities.

Coron Westown Resort

Photo by Coron Westown Resort

This beach resort in Coron is one of a kind. They do not only have one outdoor pool but two! Their contemporary modern rooms are equipped with excellent amenities such as a minibar and an en-suite bathroom. You can also try singing your heart out as they have their karaoke facility!

Corto del Mar Hotel

This hotel in Coron has beautiful exteriors reminiscent of the Spanish Era. They have an outdoor pool and their restaurant for visitors. It's near Coron airport and a short walk to Coron Town. Their rooms are charmingly designed to complement its top-notch facilities such as massage area and an outdoor garden.

Sophia's Garden Resort

Just a short drive from Coron Town, this beach resort is frequently booked because of its quiet and serene atmosphere. Their rooms are modern yet Mediterranean in their way. The good part about staying here is their outdoor garden and pool. It's like a retreat home in the middle of the bustling town in Coron.

Luxury Accommodations

If you want to splurge during your vacation, there are luxury hotels that will make you feel like a real VIP. They offer high-class amenities and rooms that are beyond what is in an ordinary hotel or beach resort. Its proximity within the city area and some of the major islands in Coron is a significant factor in why these come highly recommended:

Two Seasons Coron Bayside Hotel

Photo by Two Seasons Coron Bayside Hotel

If you want to swim in an infinity pool wherein your view is an island, then stay at Two Seasons Coron. This hotel is literally within the bay, making it the perfect venue for weddings.

Photo by Two Seasons Coron Bayside Hotel

• Book a  Two Seasons Coron Bayside Hotel & flight package

Staying at one of their rooms entitles you to beachfront access and a picturesque view of the island. It's also eco-friendly as they make sure all of their rooms are designed with sustainability in mind.

Discovery Coron (formerly Club Paradise Palawan)

If you want to stay at an exclusive island resort that offers various activities such as diving and jetski, then stay at Club Paradise . It's near the town center and is accessible by a private boat.

• Book a 3D2N Club Paradise Palawan package with airfare

Their beachfront cottages have top-notch facilities such as mini bar, plasma TV and en-suite bathroom. They also have a spa and an on-site dive center.

Huma Island Resort and Spa

A premium island resort, Huma Island Resort, and spa offer first-class accommodations. It's a Maldives-inspired resort that has an indoor/outdoor pool, jacuzzi, and spa.

Not only that, but their private cottages and rooms offer a scenic view of Busuanga Island. They also provide a unique bathing experience, the Huma Hammam Treatment.

After you find the right accommodation for your visit to Coron, it's time to plot out the different things you'll be doing in the area.

Most of these tourist spots are islands and beaches, but sightseeing in Coron Town can also be fun as there are many inland attractions in the area. Here are some of the places you can visit and do during your stay:

See our popular Coron Island Hopping Tours

Palawan coron malcapuya, banana & bulog dos islands shared tour with lunch & transfers, coron palawan kayangan lake & twin lagoon island hopping & snorkeling tour with lunch & transfers, visit kayangan lake and view deck       .

Kayangan Lake is part of the ancestral domain of the indigenous Tagabanua people. Entrance fees go towards the Tagbanua Tribe of Coron Island Association Inc. (TICIA). Visitors can go swimming in this stunning lake and see some surreal and exciting rock formations underwater.

• Book a  Coron island-hopping tour via a double-deck party boat

You can join a Coron island-hopping tour which brings visitors up close to the famous Kayangan Lake for a relaxed swimming experience. Popularly known as The Blue Lagoon, this stunning lake is set amongst majestic limestone cliffs.

Along the way, you can snap a photo with the iconic view of Coron as your backdrop during your short trek to Kayangan Lake. 

Coron island hopping tour is excellent for anyone who loves the waters, as you can enjoy snorkeling in the coral gardens and explore the thriving corals and marine species of Palawan.

To cap the day, visitors can relax by the powdery white sands of CYC Beach, which is also a great swimming and snorkeling spot because of its crystal clear waters.

See our popular Kayangan Lake Tours

Palawan coron ultimate island hopping tour with lunch | kayangan lake & twin lagoon, palawan coron kayangan lake, beaches & snorkeling island hopping private tour a with lunch, swim in barracuda lake        .

You can also join an island-hopping tour which will take you to  see hidden lakes, lagoons, and swimming spots in Coron such as Barracuda Lake. It is a scenic lake surrounded by limestone cliffs located at the north end of Coron Island.

On this tour, you can enjoy a picnic lunch at the beautiful Banol Beach, a short stretch of white sand beach with pristine waters.

Be sure to pack an underwater camera, as visitors get to snorkel atop the Skeleton Wreck, a sunken fishing boat, and enjoy swimming with the colorful marine life. 

This tour also takes visitors to the iconic Twin Lagoon, two saltwater lakes separated by a narrow opening, which invites travelers to cross through for an unforgettable tunnel experience.

Chill On Culion’s Beautiful Beaches      

Highlights in Isla Culion other than island-hopping include visiting the well-preserved and curated Culion Museum & Archives, The 17th century La Inmaculada Concepcion Church, and the remains of Fort Culion. Crowning Glory Reef, a Marine Protected Area (MPA) just near the shore of Culion offers a fantastic site for snorkeling.

Attend the Coron Calauit Safari       

The game reserve is located on a small island at the tip of Busuanga Island, roughly 70 km away from the Coron Town proper. Be sure to leave town early to enjoy a relaxing morning safari tour around the park before it gets too hot.

Spend the morning learning about the exotic, endemic and endangered animal species of the province. Visitors can even assist the park rangers in the morning feeding of some animals like the giraffe at one of the stables.

As a side trip, this tour can bring visitors to either North Cay or Pamalican Island for an afternoon swim before heading back to Coron town.

Go Wreck Diving     

Video by the Philippine Department of Tourism

For scuba divers, the main draw of Coron is the world-class wreck diving sites. The channels between Busuanga and Culion are home to several impressive wrecks from a Japanese supply fleet bombed in September 1944.

• Read our guide on diving in Coron
• Book Coron diving packages

Wreck dive sites are found in-depth as shallow as 10–30 feet and as deep as 120–140 feet. Most are in the range of about 60–80 feet, perfect for sports divers. Some sites are in shallow waters, so it's visible to snorkelers.  Visit the popular diving sites in Coron which include Pass Island, Lusong Gunboat and Lusong Coral Gardens.

See our popular Coron Diving Courses and Packages

3-day budget diving coron palawan package at skylodge resort with discover scuba course & equipment, stunning 5-day coron palawan diving package at skylodge resort with open water driver course, palawan coron wreck dive specialty course with guide, equipment, transfers & lunch, hike up mt. tapyas       .

Hiking up Mt. Tapyas is usually included when you join a half-day Coron Town Tour (along with Maquinit Hot Springs and other sightseeing spots around town).

You can do this easily if you have free time in the city or your first afternoon upon your arrival. The best time to hike up is around sunset. There's no entrance fee to climb up 700 steps to reach the top of Mt. Tapyas and enjoy the rewarding view overlooking the town.  

Take a dip at Maquinit Hot Springs        

Make sure to  visit and enjoy Maquinit Hot Springs , about 30 minutes away from the main town proper by tricycle is in a mangrove forest beside the sea. It is said to be one of the very few natural saltwater springs in the world.

One of the main swimming areas is composed of three pools, including the main pool that can accommodate at least 100 people, and two smaller pools.

The site also contains wooden bridges and walkways where you can go around and enjoy the view at a section of the forest. Because of the tropical weather, it's best to go here in the late afternoon to evening when the weather and temperature of the water are more refreshing for a relaxing dip.  

• Explore more of the attractions in store for you in Coron. Read our  Top Things to Do in Coron article.

Coron is a small, laid-back town, but it has a few restaurants serving a variety of international food. If you want to experience the culture of Coron, you can by trying out some of their famous local dishes.

Dining out can be pretty expensive, though, so you'll want to plan your meals strategically. Here are some information on their local cuisine as well as the best places to eat and drink in Coron:

Coron does not disappoint when it comes to their local cuisine. One must-try dish when you're on this side of Palawan is the dish called tamilok, which are woodworms harvested and prepared in kinilaw style.

It is a process wherein the raw seafood will be cooked on vinegar, similar to ceviche. Another one is crocodile sisig, which uses crocodile meat seasoned with onion and chili peppers. You should also try danggit lamayo, which is a fresh, dried rabbitfish marinated in vinegar, pepper, and garlic.  

One of the best things to do in Coron is to try out its popular dishes. After all, Palawan as a whole is rich with seafood and other local cuisines.

Now that you know some of their unique specialties, it's time for you to try these at some of Coron's highly recommended best restaurants and bars. Here's a list of the must-try food establishments on the island:

Kawayanan Grill 

This restaurant with a native motif is perfect for anyone craving for seafood and grilled food. For a sampler plate for sharing, try the Kawayanan Platter (which comes with grilled crab, fish, squid, shrimps, lato (seaweed) and grilled kibiao (clams), which is a local specialty.

Trattoria Altrov'é

This Slovenian-owned restaurant is famous for its pizza and pasta dishes. They also offer vegetarian options and international options. Their pizza is cooked in a wood fire brick oven, served in an authentic Italian style. The ambiance is excellent, plus the restaurant's interiors are reminiscent of a rustic villa.

Bistro Coron

Located in the town center, this restaurant offers Italian and French cuisine. Their primary specialty is pizza and pasta, but they also serve breakfast food such as pancakes and omelets.

Their salad dishes are served with bread, while they offer a variety of dishes such as chicken, pork, and seafood. They also have a variety of wine and drinks such as rum and tonic.

Lolo Nonoy's Food Station

It's a local restaurant serving home-cooked Filipino meals. Some of their sumptuous dishes include chili crab, sinigang (shrimp in sour soup), and gambas (shrimp in garlic). All of their set meals are served with rice and a fried egg. They also offer local beers and appetizers.

When you're in Coron, it's essential to know relevant information regarding the town and the island. For example, the currency and languages. It's a way to respect and blend with their culture and a way to comply with the guidelines on the island:

You can easily withdraw or exchange your money in Coron Town from available ATMs or money changers. Most hotels and restaurant establishments accept credit cards.

And if you're dining in a local food establishment or a tour group, you can settle your payment by paying the local currency Philippine Peso (PHP). Always pay with small bills (50 or 100 PHP) when buying on the streets to avoid the hassle of finding enough change for your money.

The Filipino language is predominantly spoken in Coron, but the majority of the locals can speak English. They also speak other dialects such as Cuyunon and Tinagbanwa. You can ask them about anything, make sure to get your point across as clear as you can with a neutral accent. 

It's relatively tropical in Coron, which means you have to protect your skin from the sun's harm. Aside from swimwear and other beachwear necessities, make sure to bring sunblock.

Bring insect repellent with you as well to prevent insect bites. If you plan to snorkel without joining a tour group, bring your snorkeling gear with you. If you plan to trek to Mount Tapyas, bring trekking gear and a flashlight to avoid accidents.

Most visitors can see the highlights of Coron on four days and three nights tour. For those staying longer, it's easy enough to fill in the extra days with more  island-hopping adventures , particularly wreck diving or a day trip to the historical island of Culion depending on your preference and interests. 

09:00 AM - Arrival, Check-in at Hotel

10:00 AM - Early lunch 

11:00 AM - Climb up Mt. Tapyas Viewdeck

03:00 PM -  Visit Maquinit hot springs or explore Cabo and Bali beaches

07:00 PM - Dinner 

08:00 PM - Back at the hotel

07:00 AM - Wake up, freshen up and prepare for a long day

08:00 AM - Breakfast

09:00 AM -  Start of Coron Island Tour  

12:00 NN - Lunch

01:00 PM - Continue island tour in Coron

06:00 PM - Dinner, Coron firefly watching tour

Day 3: Safari Park Visit + Sightseeing 

09:00 AM - Join a Calauit Safari Park tour

03:00 PM - Back to Hotel

04:00 PM - Explore town sights in Coron

06:00 PM - Dinner

07:00 PM - Nightlife, get a drink at one of the local bars 

09:00 PM - Back at the hotel

06:00 AM - Wake up, freshen up and prepare for a long day

07:00 AM - Breakfast

08:00 AM - Visit the public market for last-minute souvenir shopping

08:30 AM - ETD to the airport

09:00 AM - Departure

Plan your Coron getaway today

• Book a Two Seasons Coron package with airfare
• See our Coron Palawan Westown Resort Package

Explore the islands, beaches, lagoons, and other attractions of Coron! When planning your itinerary, make sure to research  Coron tours and activities that you can easily book for a hassle-free getaway!

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Ultimate Travel Guide to Balabac, Palawan: The Last Paradise

Here’s your ultimate travel guide to Balabac, Palawan! Including a sample 5 days itinerary you can follow for your trip.

Last 2015, Hali and I were exchanging stories with a 60-year-old fellow traveler who then told us about Balabac. For the uninitiated, Balabac group of islands is a relatively unknown summer haven for backpackers seeking unspoilt beaches and preserved local culture. In my opinion, it has the best beaches you can find in the Philippines .

Balabac is located at the southernmost tip of Palawan in the Philippines and is just a few hours away from Sabbah, Malaysia.

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Along with five other friends, Hali and I ventured here on the first week of March 2016 for our first summer escapade (and also Hali’s birthday celebration — he said age isn’t important). It was a bit challenging to arrange a DIY vacation to Balabac. At the time of our trip, there was very little material in the internet especially with regards to island hopping prices and contact details.

So much has changed since our last visit. We’ve updated this post with the latest information , including info on packaged tours to Balabac so you’ll have a hassle-free travel. Enjoy!

P.S. Traveling to Balabac, soon? I also recommend reading our Guide to Island Hopping in Balabac, Palawan .

Option 1: Via Rio Tuba

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The closest airport to Balabac is Puerto Princesa Airport. From there, you need to travel to either Rio Tuba port or Buliluyan port and then ride a boat to Balabac. It will take you at least a day to get to Balabac.

In Puerto Princesa, ride a trike or jeep to San Jose Terminal. Tricycle fare from the airport is P120. If you walk outside the airport to the main road, tricycle fare is P70-100 per ride and jeepney fare is P12-15 per person.

From San Jose Terminal, ride either a bus or van going to Rio Tuba. Travel time is 4-5 hours. Commuting via van is faster since there are lesser stopovers, although you will still need to wait for other passengers to fill up all the seats. Fare for the van is P300 per person.

Van Schedules:

• Puerto Princesa to Rio Tuba: 4AM to 5PM
• Rio Tuba to Puerto Princesa: 4AM to 3PM

Bus Schedules:

• Puerto Prinesa to Rio Tuba: Up to 7PM

Regardless of which transport you choose, it’s safe to be at the terminal at around 5-6PM to make sure you won’t miss a ride to Rio Tuba.

From Rio Tuba, ride a passenger boat to Balabac.

Travel time is 4 hours, boat fare is P370. Normally, there is only one schedule for the boat via Rio Tuba-Balabac route, which is anywhere from 9AM to 12 noon. The boat leaves immediately once all seats are taken. A boatman told us they make a second trip depending on the number of passengers, but I get the impression that this rarely happens.

If you arrive at night in Rio Tuba, you can sleepover at the nearby White Heaven Lodging which is just near the port. From there, take a tricycle to the port (P20 per person).

The passenger boat makes a few stops. You’re about an hour away from mainland Balabac after you pass by Bancalan Port.

Similarly, there is also one schedule for the boat from Balabac to Rio Tuba: at 6AM in the morning. The boat is either docked in the unloading pier or VCI, depending on the sea level.

Depending on your itinerary, you can also opt to travel from Puerto Princesa to Buliluyan Port instead of Rio Tuba. There are no passenger boats in Buliluyan Port. Instead, your boat operator for island hopping will have to fetch you from here to Balabac. This port is closer to some islands in Balabac, including Patunggong Island and Tangkahan Island. If you want to go straight to island hopping, this is a better choice.

Same as above: In Puerto Princesa, ride a trike or jeep to San Jose Terminal.

Then ride a van to Buliluyan Port. Fare is P600 per person. Travel time is 5 hours.

Summer is the best time to visit Balabac . As per Anj of Kilometer Zero PH, ber-months are still okay but during the amihan season (from December to February) the waves can get particularly rough.

There are different islands you can visit in Balabac. These are:

• Bancalaan Island
• Camiaran Island (Pink Sand Beach)
• Onuk Island (also called Onok Island)
• Candaraman Island (Starfish Sandbar)
• Sicsican Island
• Ramos Island
• Canabungan Island
• Nasubata Island
• Punta Sebaring
• Patunggong Island
• Patawan Island
• Mansalangan sandbar
• Matangule sandbar
• Bobby’s Island
• Secam Island
• Cabcabun Island
• Tangkahan Island
• Timbayan Island (rock formation)
• Balabac Island – Melville Lighthouse

In my opinion, the best islands to visit are : Camiaran Island, Onuk Island/Onok Island, Patawan Island, Candaraman Island, Mansalangan sandbar, Punta Sebaring and Tangkahan Island.

To know more about the islands in Balabac, read our Guide to Island Hopping in Balabac, Palawan . We also have a separate feature on Onuk Island .

Take note that the islands in Balabac are mostly privately owned, so public access may change.

As of 2019 , visiting Melville Lighthouse in no longer allowed. Candaraman Island is also closed but it is still possible to visit the sandbar.

Here’s a sample 5 days itinerary to Balabac, Palawan. You can use it as a rough guide when you visit Balabac.

Coordinate with your boatmen since they know which are the best hours to visit the islands. For instance, places such as Punta Sebaring, Onuk Island/Onok Island and the sandbars need to be visited during low tide, which changes per season.

Due to the long commute time, it’s recommended to stay 5-7 days in Balabac, Palawan.

Where to book your tours in Balabac

You can book your island hopping tour directly with the local boat operators in Balabac. There are also travel agencies offering full packaged tours to Balabac, which is convenient especially if you’re a solo or couple joiner.

Also included are the current island hopping rates ( Updated as of 2022 ).

Kuya Boboy and Kuya Onyok were our guides and we highly recommend them. If you decide to hire them via this blog, please tell them that we (Katherine and Hali) say Hi! Ate Lorna is a relative of them and she also arranges tours to Balabac.

Here is their contact:

• Kuya Onyok : 09123993543 / Kuya Boboy : 09309822412 | Facebook
• Ate Lorna : 09066909547 / 09465576503

Their rates are 4-6 people: P1500 per head/day, 7-10 people: P1200 per head/day.

These prices include the island hopping tour and meals. Accommodation can be booked in the mainland or islands separately.

For complete packaged tours, I recommend Gala PH by JV Francisco. I went with them on my second visit in Balabac . I had a blast, the food was overwhelming and overall I highly recommend their services.

Gala PH arranges joiner tours to Balabac, including transfer from PPS to Balabac and vice versa, island hopping, accommodation and meals.

Here is their contact: Gala PH – Facebook

Their rate is P9500 per person for a 3-day tour, including transfer from Puerto Princesa and vice versa, island hopping tour, meals, and accommodation (tent only).

Where to stay

Staying overnight in Puerto Princesa? You can check out discounted inns/hotels in PPS here .

Here are the main accommodations you can book for your trip to Balabac, Palawan.

• White Heaven Lodging . Rates: Room for 2 pax – P250
• Dewelyn Lodging House . Contact: 0999034854
• Pring Pension House . Rates: Fan room with common CR – P300 / AC room w/o breakfast – P700 or with breakfast – P900. Contact: 09265844805

White Heaven Lodging is near the port of Rio Tuba so it’s the recommended to stay here.

Here are the places you can stay at in mainland Balabac.

• JD lodging (Sing and Swing lodge) . Rates: Fan room with common CR for 2 pax – P500 / AC room for 2 pax – P1000. Contact: 09106620073
• MLK lodging . Rates: Room for 2 pax – P500. Contact: 09395176169
• Mely Bechayda Pension House . Rates: Fan room with common CR – P500 / Shared big room with own CR – P250 per person. Contact: 09264049171
• Biga-Biga Beach Resort . (No info)

We stayed at JD lodging for the duration of our trip. The rooms are surprisingly spacious. The restrooms and shower stalls are for common sharing but clean and regularly maintained. The electricity in the whole Balabac group of islands is up until midnight only, but you can request for the generator to be turned on during the night in JD Lodging for P300 per night (all rooms covered).

There are also islands where you can find resorts/camping grounds. Some of these are:

• Candaraman Island
• Canibungan Island
• Matangule Island
• Punta Sebaring (Bugsuk Island)
• Onuk Island/Onok Island

If you’re availing of a packaged tour, accommodation is already taken cared of.

Here are the things you should know about before you go:

• Bring all the cash that you need; there is no ATM or bank in Balabac. The nearest one is located in Rio Tuba.
• Be prepared to go on rough backpacking, i.e., camping on islands. You can also stay in mainland Balabac, but going to/from here when you island hop might be time consuming, which is why the usual itinerary includes staying overnight in islands.
• Mobile signal is non-existent or weak in most places in Balabac.

• You can buy Malaysian goods such as mi goreng noodles as pasalubong in mainland Balabac or Sitio Marabun, a local community on stilts which you’ll pass by going back to Buliluyan Port.
• Insect repellent
• For camping: Tent/hammock, flashlight and powerbank
• Snorkel set/fins

There are islands in Balabac that are home to sand flies (or niknik), such as Punta Sebaring. Make sure to bring insect repellent and balm for insect bites.

There’s a lot of snorkeling/freediving sites in Balabac. However, there are no rental stores in this area so you should bring your own equipment.

Here are other contact details you may need:

• Kuya Jerry, shuttle service Puerto Princesa City – Rio Tuba : 0927 705 5910/0946 260 6260

Update as of January 2018:  Ate Bebeth is no longer part of the tourism office, and I’ve removed her contact detail above.

Budget depends on the package you choose. For 5-6 days stay good for 4 people, a safe budget would be P9000-10,000 per person.

Additional: FAQ Section

I’ve added this section as an update. Ever since posting this Balabac Palawan itinerary and other features, we’ve been drowning in inquiries, and though the attention is flattering, sadly I can’t keep up with all the messages.

When we visited in 2016, we found out thru inquiries in our blog that there are security issues in Balabac. However, it is our personal experience that Balabac is safe for foreign and local tourists.

As of 2019 , tourism in Balabac is expanding and there are currently no security concerns about visiting here.

There are other places you can visit in Palawan. The unique thing about Balabac is it’s the most remote and possibly the least commercialized as of yet.

Puerto Princesa  offers its own island hopping and scuba diving adventures, not to mention the world-renown Puerto Princesa Underground River .  El Nido and Coron  are world-known vacation spots, famous for limestone karsts and clean lagoons. There are also low-key destinations in Palawan that offer a quiet time off, such as Port Barton .

If you’re looking for off-beaten beaches, we recommend:

• Calayan Island in Babuyan Islands, Cagayan
• Palaui Island in Cagayan

If you want to get an idea of other great attractions, here’s a list of the best places to visit in the Philippines .

Thank you to everyone who helped me in creating this guide! If you have updated information, please let us know thru comments/email so we can update this post as well.

Don’t forget to watch our summer experience in Balabac, Palawan, in this video:

Has this Balabac Palawan itinerary and travel guide been helpful to you ? Feel free to like and share. Oh and post your comments below! 🙂

Visiting Palawan? Check out the rest of our guides in Palawan:

• Ultimate Guide to Palawan
• Top Things to Do in Palawan
• Best Beaches in Palawan

Puerto Princesa :

• Guide to Puerto Princesa Underground River
• Island Hopping in Honda Bay
• Best Resorts and Hotels in Puerto Princesa
• Travel Guide to Coron
• Best Resorts in Coron Palawan
• Travel Guide to El Nido
• Best Resorts in El Nido Palawan
• Travel Guide to Balabac
• Island Hopping in Balabac
• Onuk Island

Port Barton :

• Travel Guide to Port Barton + 3 Days Itinerary
• Top Things to Do in Port Barton
• Island Hopping in Port Barton

If you liked this post, feel free to share it in Pinterest!

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Katherine Cortes is a long-time backpacker and a freelance writer/editor. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs!).

129 Comments

Irena filipovic dimitrijevic.

Anybody wants to go with us and share expenses, in 3 days to Balabac? So, the dates are Februaru 20th- night in Rio Tuba, and after that 3 nights on Balabac. Johannes and Irena

its my futured island…Balabac is a unique in the whole world…lets safe Palawan forever.. 🙂

Hello, do you have a scheduled boat trip from Buliluyan Port to Balabac? Or we have to rent a private boat for that? would you know hm?

Katherine Cortes

Hello. There are no passenger ferries from Buliluyan Port. You have to rent a private boat. Usually it’s included in island hopping rates, as today most tourists go this route.

Maybe we can go together. my desired schedule is Jan 31 to Feb 2, 2020. My number is 09289106175

Ron Orlovsky

Hi there! Katherine! This is soooooo helpful! A friend and I are looking to travel Balabac during Christmas break. Anytime between 24th-29th of December, 2019. We are looking for joiner to share the “burden” 🙂 Feel free to email: [email protected] .

Sushil Kumar

hi we are 2 adults and a child 13 yrs planning for balabac from the 16 th of jan to 20th of jan 2020 any body who wishes to join can please mail me on [email protected] thank you

Hello, I will fly to Puerto Princesa on January 26 and will stay in Palawan till mid of February (single traveller). Do you think, it is possible, to organize joining a Balabac-Island-hopping-tour just after arrival in Puerto Princesa on January 27 or 28? Since I don’t want to rush, I would reserve up to 7 days for such a tour if it is necessary. But I am a foreigner (Europe). From the videos on Youtube it seems, that there have been some foreigners doing such tours in 2019. Is it possible, to join a tour being the only foreigner? Or is a foreigner still a risk for the whole group, like Bryan mentioned in his comment from February 2018?

Hi Carl, you’ll probably be fine. Also Balabac is more open to visitors now compared to the past years since word about it is slowly getting out.

Not sure how you’re going to organize a tour after arrival unless you already have/will meet other companions there. Why don’t you post in FB groups to see who’d also like to go or you can contact Ate Lorna to ask if she has scheduled guests on those dates. You can also go solo but it’s more expensive.

We will be in palawan on january 29 to feb 4. Can we join? 2 persons

Hello everyone, I will travel in balabac on February 2-7, 2020, two of us, expecting others to join.my email [email protected]

hi guys. my friend and i will be in balabac from nov 18 to 20. if theres anyone who we can join with the tours kindly send me an email please, [email protected] . mys sister in laws brother lives in rio tube and owns a boat so maybe we can get a discount for the trips. tia.

Jared dela Cruz

Your post and your pictures are truly inspiring, thank you so much. I have never heard of Balabac until recently. But from then on, I’ve been dreaming of going there, the last paradise in the Philippines’ last frontier.

Blog is very nice and details. Ilm planning in May 2019. Can i get WhatsApp no. Of some tour operator?

Hi! Better contact their mobile numbers directly because whatsapp isn’t used much here in the ph.

Seemed like an awesome experience you had. Was this a DIY trip that you planned yourselves or did you purchase a full package with a tour company beforehand? Very helpful post.

Hi Nicole. As said in the blog post, we did it DIY. Nowadays there are tours in Balabac which we’d recommend you do instead. 🙂

Hi! Pwede pong pakiconfirm if that is still the number of kuya onyok? I texted the number and inquired about rates. He asked for a downpayment and gave a different name (might be his real name?) But since malaki ung downlayment na hinihingi niya, medyo worried lang ako.

Hi Ren, sorry for the late reply. The number was still working a few months back, but we got the updated numbers here: Kuya Onyok – 09123993543, Kuya Boboy – 09073892313. 🙂 We also updated the guide.

Sarah L. Grageda

Hi Katherine! In Balabac or Rio Tuba, is there any available motorcycle that is for rent? If there is, I’d like to know the average price of the rent per day. Thanks!

I’m not sure. If you find one I’m guessing it’ll be around P400-500 per day? That’s how much motorcycle rental costs in other places in Palawan.

Hi! Anybody here who has contacts for mainland Balabac tours? Thank you in advance!

We live in Palawan (in Brooke’s Pt.) but when I told him I want to visit Balabac, he said no:( Want to visit the island badly :((

Bout dun sa 1,2 and 3days package tour in onok island?

May i know what is included on that packages?

Krista Matias

Palawan is really such a beautiful island, and I am planning to go there this year. I am glad I have read this blog, I am really looking forward to trying out these exciting activities in there. Thank you for sharing the beauty of Palawan.

Mhat Hidalgo

Hello! We’re actually heading rio tuba now with friend. Ask ko Lang yung tour package na 4500 per head for two 3d2n San ang pick up point? Thanks . Any joiners? Please pm me

I’ve heard about the “niknik” during the night, how bad is it? is OFF Lotion not enough to drive them away?

Nope. Even if it works I don’t think you’ll be very comfortable with insects around you.

I’m planning to go on my own this June or end of may who wants to Join me, so we can save more money I’ll bring my own tent as well

you want to check kilometerph meron na silang na organized na group. at may mga scheds na rin

Anyone going to palawan in june? Im island hopping and would love to visit balabac

I’m planning to go on my own this June or end of may

Jay Sebastian

Hi. I am planning to go to Balabac second week of August (9th).

Are there any of you here travelling around this time? If I can join your team that would be very nice.

Please give the contact number of tourism officer if you have.

Hi, we’re planning to go to Balabac on June 13-17. Hope we can find a group of travellers to whom we can join, so it will lessen our tight budget.

George Gaskell

hello, [email protected] here. George for short. A friend and I plan to go round about the same time; June 13-17. 2019. Please email your details if interested to join up and cut costs. And a million thanks too Katherine & Hali for this wonderful bit of info.

Eejay Corceles

Hi belle, my girlfriend and i are actually scheduled to tour balabac on june 13-17, 2019. DM me on instagram @eejayboang

Hi! I’ll be in Balabac from May 10 to 15. I hope I can join other groups to save money for the island hopping. Mac

Hello! We’re going to Balabac this coming June 2018? Anyone who wants to join us during our island hopping from June 8 to 10?

Hi! Are you still looking for travel buddies? My two friends and I will be in Palawan from June 6-11 and we’re planning to go to Balabac.

June 6 to 11 might work for me and a friend. Please email just in case we are able to manage these dates, so as to enable us to cut costs. Thanks and thanks again to Katherine and Hali for sharing.

June 8 to 10 might work for me and a friend. Please email just in case we are able to manage these dates, so as to enable us to cut costs. Thanks and thanks again to Katherine and Hali for sharing.

i and my husband were able to go march 19-21 and i would say this is by far my best beach experience ever in my many years of traveling to different beach locations in the country. we had such a great time. we met new friends during our island hopping. six of those who were featured in KMJS last sunday were with us in onuk island which we enjoyed the most. those who are going, please do not miss onuk. the hefty entrance fee is so worth it. i have so many stories to tell, good and not so good about this trip but i will need to write a blog about it. 🙂

Hi Judy thanks for sharing your experience. 😉

Hello! May I know who was your tour guide/boat operator and how was your transaction with him/her? Thanks.

Hello. I just saw this post and planning to go there alone 🙁 Let me know if I can join so that I can save cost

Hi! We are planning to go to balabac this may 29 (departure from manila). Any group interested to join para makamura tayo? PM me on FB- Sunshine Cervantes

get fidel….madali sya kausap at okay ang package rates nya

Earlier of May po meron?

May 2-6 pm me 09174037478 confirmed

Hi Sunshine. PMed you in FB already.

Jamie Lou Garces

Hi! Is that the final date? Will arrive in Puerto Princesa on May 31. May I still join the group?

Tried to search your name in messenger, it matches a lot of profiles po. I’m interested to join the group but I’ll arrive in Puerto Princesa on May 31.

fidel was our boat operator/guide and i highly recommend him.

I went down to Rio Tuba in Mid February and was told it is not safe for foreign guests (non-filipino) to go there at the time being. I had a very nice lady at the docks of Rio Tuba calling around to numerous numbers I gave her and some family that she has down there. The same response from all, they strongly discouraged foreign tourists from visiting at the moment. They are still operating boats (quite expesive – 6-7,000php for 3 day trips) for Filipinos though.

If boat operators that make money from tourism are encouraging foreign guests to stay away, it’s probably for a reason. To the foreign tourists, is it really worth putting yourself in danger or the other people with you as well?

Thanks for the update Bryan! Did they say why? (My friends had just gotten back from Balabac including Onuk this month, but then they are locals.)

I guess that the terrorists in the area will target foreign travelers specifically in the area. Just in the past year there was a foreign couple killed on a boat down there, along with a Filipino woman and her child according to what I was told. I’m quite sure they wouldn’t just be making that up. They didn’t say I couldn’t go, but just strongly advised against it.

As a foreign tourist, of course you shouldn’t put yourself in a potentially dangerous situation along with putting any Filipinos you would be with in dangers as well.

Hopefully one day things will get better down there!

I see. Thanks for this info! We were not aware of the news abt the foreign couple. 🙂 When we went tho I did mention (in another post) that I do not think Balabac is stable yet, hopefully it will be in the coming years.

Not a problem. And like you say, hopefully things get better in the future there! I would love to see it for myself one day.

di kami natuloy ng husband ko last year sa balabac due to time and money constraints but hopefully next month at nakabooked na kami. kaso ang mahal ng singil sa min nun nakausap ko. 3nights tig P10k each kami, island hopping lang un and food. kung 7k each kaya pa sa budge. but 10k each mukhang hindi na. sana meron pa akong mahanap na mas cheaper sa 10k at makasabay na mga grp. we will arrive puerto on march 17 and 26 is our flight back.

Hi Judy, sinong kausap niyo? Try contacting Kuya Boboy and Ate Lorna. My friends are going there also this summer, maayos naman yung quote sa kanila.

Hi po. I am planning to visit Balabac at baka aku lang mag-isa. I only want to visit Candaraman at Punta Sebaring. Side trip lang sa Candaraman and I’ll spend 2 nights sa Punta Sebaring. Do you have any idea how much it would cost me for the boat?

I don’t know since that’s a custom trip. Why don’t you ask the boatmen/tour guides for a quote? 🙂

sir anung date ang punta nyo ng balabac? kc kmi ng sister q..since dalawa lng kmi we’re planning to visit punta sebaring and another island malapit lng sa sebaring kc btin un araw namin? bka pd pd tyo tatlo kung same date lng un pgbisita mo para mas cheaper.. thanks

kelan kayo nasa puerto? baka pwede tayo mag joint forces para mas makatipid. 2 lang kami ng husband ko. dating namin ng puerto march 17. 25 ang balik. plan namin mag pa rio tuba the same day kung maabutan namin ang last trip. then pa bangkalan on the 18th kung saan kami ppick upin ni fidel (contact boatman ko) let me know guys. thanks

nku mam mgkaiba tyo ng date march 10-13 po kmi ng sister q.. sayang namn..

hi anne papunta pa labg ako ng balabac dito pa lanv ako rio tuba pier

hello anne…kmsta ang trip nyo last 10-13?

mjo disappointed kmi d sun package n nkuha nmin..then n delayed p un flight namin ng mahigit 2hrs..mjo maalon kaya ilang islands lng un npuntahn nmin.. pero no doubt mgganda tlga isla sa balabac worth to visit kahit malayo..

Pwede ba ako humingi ng itinerary mo? Thanks 🙂

mam may npg inquira’an aq 7500 per person lng kay kap andong ito un number nya 09204214583..

ser anung date ng balabac visits mo?

ALL the island-hopping BOAT TRIPS are CANCELED on Balabac! You can go there with public boat but NOONE will TAKE you any of the tourist DESTINATIONS since there are many discussions between island, boat owners, coast guards and tourism office of Balabac.

We ve just came back from Balabac.

This blog shoud be updated, before anyone effort to go there.

Hi Gabor, sorry to hear abt your experience and thanks for the heads up! Yes we’ve heard about on-going talks particularly about standardization of rates. Hope they come to an agreement soon. 🙂 If you have more updates, feel free to comment or message us so we can add it to the post.

Hala!!!panu kya yn?!!

It seems that island hopping tours are temporarily suspended. But my friends who’d been there this week were able to go island hopping. Guess there’s nothing else to do but wait until matters get resolved. 🙂

si fidel bago kong kausap…he gave me a much lower price.

Thanks for the tips! I’m going to Balabac in April! Did you have problems sa source ng drinking water in Balabac? Kasi parang hindi practical magdala ng maraming bottled water. hehe Thank you!

No. You can easily buy bottled water or ask for a glass in the eateries. 🙂

I wanted to let you know that Ate Bebeth, (Balabac assistant tourism officer: 0949 424 1605) no longer works with the tourism office.

Would anyone by chance know a different contact number to the tourism office there?

Hi Bryan, thanks for the update! I’ll go ask my friends if they have a contact number. 🙂 Please do inform us here if you get the new contact person also.

You can see my new response I made about my trip. Right now, I think it’s okay for Filipino tourists to visit but it was highly recommended that, I as a foreign tourist, didn’t visit due to concerns for the safety of foreign tourists in the area currently.

Hi, I can’t seem to find the contact number of White Heaven Lodge, do you have it? Thanks!

We didn’t get the number. It’s just walking distance from where the van will drop you off.

Hello Ms. Kath! If Sebaring Island lang pupuntahan namin then balikan lang agad, sa tingin mo po how much will it cost per head? Thank you.

Hi Cinderella, not sure… Better ask your boat operator. 🙂

i see…i’ll bring my 7yr old girl and little bit worried when it comes to camping for 2-3 nights(as offered by tour companies) your blog/article really help me to decide to do balabac on our own instead of getting a tour … thank you so much

Jasmin joy Villalobos Taneza

Hello Ms Kath.. fellow traveler here, enlighten me please, you don’t need to camp on those islands you mentioned,? on your day 2-4 you stay in balabac and do the boating every day from thereon? salamat

Yep. At the end of the day, we’d go back to the inn in mainland Balabac. I think it’s possible to camp in some of the islands but ask your boatmen to be sure.

Hi! My friend and I are planning to visit Balabac this March. More specifically, Onok Island is on the top of our list. However we were astounded to find out that they now charge 5000 pesos per head (entrance fee and meals included) just to visit this island. And that’s on top of the usual rate of 2000 per person per day Island hopping (3 islands per day). We tried to call diff boat operators and all have the same rates. Umm do you think it’s worth the price to still visit onok?

Waaa? Who are you referring to, exactly? Last time we were there, there was no entrance fee to Onuk Island. It’s a private property of the mayor and he used to just let visitors see the island. Did the mayor impose the new rate?

I just got an update and included it in the guide. Yes, the rate is now P5000 per head for a day tour in Onuk Island including lunch. Really pricey. I think I’ll skip on that. It’s not a 5-star hotel. But still depends on you.

Thanks for this detailed post. I just bookmarked this page for our future trip.

Quick question though: how the network coverage? Is there at least 3G?

Yep, but signal was intermittent so most of the time we just didn’t bother with our phones. Not sure how it is now. 🙂

hub and i are planning (well, im the one planning actually.he simply tags along 🙂 ) to go to balabac before end of january(20-24) from our northern palawan trip. considering the cost to get there and get back to puerto, kailangang magtipid…i really hope we may makasabay kami para mas mraming maka share sa island hopping. thank you so much for all the infos. they are a huge help.

If you’re on a budget I suggest just limiting your island hopping to the nearby islands – Onuk, Candaraman and Siksikan. It will cost you about P1500. Punta Sebaring is 3 hours away from mainland Balabac, for an additional P500.

Hi Zaida! I’m traveling solo to Balabac on Nov.20-24. You might want to come with me. Send me an email at [email protected] 🙂

We will be in Palawan again in April and we have already been to El Nido & Coron , we want do this area now. We’re foreigners so hope its not difficult to organise by ourselves

Hi Ana. We’ll probably go back next year, too. I hope you’d drop by again after your visit and let us know how it went. We get a lot of messages from foreign tourists asking the same thing and it’ll be a big help. 🙂

kapampangantraveller

Thank you for sharing your Balabac experience. Would explore on November and cross fingers for good weather.

Cheers for more travels!

I will travel novermeber 18-28th to Palawan. I plan to fly into Manila and then el Nido as the flight is one hour ish. Stay there for 3-4 days to island hop. From there fly back to Manila and then fly into Puerto princess and see if for a day if that. Then head to a tour to hit balabac island and island hope there to onuk and candarman. Is this enough time is there anything you can suggest. I may do a 5 day info you provided. Do I need the mayors signature to visit onuk? Thanks!

Hi Zaida, you can ask your boatmen to assist you in asking the mayor’s permission personally or you can send an email at least a month before. Contact the tourism office for more info on this.

Wow… Way back I was only allowed to stay in Rio Tuba. If I was just stubborn enough I would’ve discovered the place as well! Nice post and beautiful pics, Kat and Hali 😀

Anong meron? Security issues?

Hi! May I know if the rates of the tour are per boat or per person? There might be just two of us so I wanna know if it is still affordable.

Hi She. The rate is per boat. If you read the costing I clearly stated that with a rate of P8000, 2 people will have to spend P4000 each. 🙂 I hope that clears up any confusion.

hi kat.. is it possible to tour Balabac with my 3yrs old? and balak din kc namin mag el nido eh doable ba ang balabac and el nido for 8days?

Hi, I guess it’s okay if you’ll only island hop in nearby islands like Onuk and Candaraman and if you’ll manage to get a boat with proper roofing. Some islands are too distant kase. For example, from mainland it will take you 3 hours to reach Balabac island where the lighthouse is located.

Balabac and El Nido is doable in 8 days, but take note that El Nido and Balabac are on opposite sides of Palawan. It’s separated by at least 10 hours of land travel and another 4 hours of sea travel.

Backpacking Geek

Wow! Thanks for dropping by my space recently!

It was really hard to look for good references for a DIY sa Balabac! Kinilig ako because yours gave a great deal of info! Now I can start planning… 🙂 thanks again!

Oh, thanks for dropping by as well and you’re welcome!

I’d love to leave a comment in your site but there isn’t a comment option when opened in the WP reader. 🙂

Yeah… you will need to open the page to leave a comment. I’ll need to look for the settings in WP Reader to allow comments.

Thank you So much for this! I just want to ask kung dun na kayo sa balabac kumuha ng island hopping tour? Me and my boyfriend are planning to go there this August 2016 and we would like to backpack lang 🙂 Joiners are welcome!

Hi Isla! I already contacted Kuya Boboy weeks before our actual travel date. It’s okay if you’ll go there without an arranged tour yet. Just go directly to the tourism office for assistance. I have friends who went in Balabac without contacts and they encountered no problem naman.

hi Isla! we’re also planning to go to balabac on aug. 27-29. have you already booked a package tour? pls reply 🙂

hi isla! we wanna join for aug 27-29, 2016. do you still need joiners? we are a couple and we’re also in need of at least 3 joiners 🙂 pls pm me if interested. thanks! 🙂

Thanks for dropping by, Milet! Yep, better wait until election season is over. 🙂 I hope the newly elected officials do something to boost the tourism in Balabac as well as guarantee safety for tourists.

Roxane de Jesus

Hi, my cousin and I are planning to go on an April 16-17, 2016 trip to Balabac. Anyone interested to do a DIY with us to lessen the cost of fixed expenses like island hopping? The more, the lesser.

Roselle C Toledo

I’ve been wanting to go to Palawan. I find Boracay too crowded. I was not aware about Balabac. It’s so prinstine! Thanks for this article I also had an idea how much to save up.

Joy Perito-Priginal

The place really looks beautiful!Hubby and I will be travelling to palawan this october. I hope we can include it in our itinerary. Thank you for breaking down the expenses it will be really helpful as we always go on a budgeted trip!

Milton Coyne

I really want to visit the unspoiled beauty of Palawan .. this place has always been on my bucket list and your pictures make me so eager to push my plans this year!

Thanks for sharing your unbiased review on this place! I have been hearing my grandpa mention this place (Balabac) for so long since I was a kid. I didn’t know how beautiful this place was! I am going to Palawan this summer vacation and I am definitely am wanting to include this as my side trip with my family!

You’re welcome namesake! 🙂 I’ll consider other places though if you’re with a kid, since the boat rides during island hopping take hours and the motorized boats often used don’t have any overhead tarp to protect the boat passengers from the sun.

Aika Loraine

Last time, Air Asia had again their Piso Sale, I actually want to book for Palawan however, the fairs are too expensive so I decided to book for Kalibo instead. Reading this made me again think of booking a Palawan flight. I like it that you provided itinerary for this. I am a DIY traveller also. Uhum. Thanks to this blog entry as it will be a great addition to the very little material in the Internet about Balabac as you have mentioned.

Hi! I’m so glad i found this post. My friend and i are going to balabac in june so i need all the help i can get to prepare our itinerary. 🙂 Btw, you mentioned you werent able to go to Onuk? May i know why? Were you able to get the permit to visit the island? This is our main target location kasi so i would like to know if we need to get the permit before arrival sa palawan para sure and kung sino best contact person. Thanks in advance 🙂

Hi Awesome! You have to personally ask current Mayor Shuaib because it is his private property. So it depends if papayag siya. There are times he even lets visitors use his boat to go to Onuk Island.

Meron rin kasing security issue ngayon since election season (e.g., risk of kidnappings in the area etc.). This is what we were told by the asst. tourism officer.

When you arrive in Balabac, go to municipal hall to log your names in the local tourism register and also ask if Mayor is there. Seek assistance from your boatman, alam na nila yun. 🙂

Kat! You’ve captured our trip right on point. And I am also glad to see our beach conversation here. hehe

I think it also calls for everyone disposing their garbage properly – travellers and locals alike. Some of the trash seemed to have washed off from the shore and in the end it all comes back to us. Garbage is a big issue I think not only for Balabac but for other places as well. Though I am also hopeful that pretty soon the local tourism office will push for efforts to preserve the beaches since they are really that stunning. 🙂

’till our next adventure together! 🙂

Kelangan talaga more awareness and discipline regarding garbage disposal. Palaging yan ang problema sa local tourism e.

Yep, yep. See you soon! 😀

Hi Kath.. Good to see that you’re writing “again..” Hehe.. Refer ako dito sakaling mapadpad ako ng Palawan ha.. ; )

Hi Ranran, thank you! (Napaisip ako if I know you in person, if yes then PM mo ko here haha.)

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SAN VICENTE PALAWAN: TRAVEL GUIDE + ITINERARY

by thepinay solobackpacker | Jan 7, 2022 | Itinerary , Palawan , San Vicente , Travel Guide | 0 comments

Nature really comes to the fore of San Vicente Palawan.  Punctuated by rocky outcrops, the sprawling landscape here varies from forest fringed mountains and windswept grassland, to a swirling mix of aquamarine beaches and rough-hewn coves. Tucked between the famous Puerto Princesa and El Nido , San Vicente Palawan is a relatively newcomer in tourism. This bucolic town thrives mainly on fishing and farming, but that is about to change a few years from now, as San Vicente Palawan is slowly making its mark on the tourists’ radar.  Thanks to the opening of San Vicente Airport with cheap flights from Manila and Clark, it makes San Vicente a practical base for your trip to San Vicente Palawan and Port Barton. Hotels and resorts are also slowly emerging in San Vicente Palawan, but as expected, spectators have driven up real-estate prices here.

Although the town center itself doesn’t offer much to see, the long, palm-fringed, sandy beaches here are worth a visit.  San Vicente Palawan is also flecked with approximately 22 islands, most of them are accessible from San Vicente Port and from Port Barton. While many European tourists head to Port Barton to do the island hopping, the same tours for the same prices are also available in San Vicente Palawan.

To help you plan your trip, here’s my San Vicente Palawan Itinerary and Travel Guide blog with sample budget, my handpicked list of top things to do in San Vicente Palawan, and hotel and beach resorts recommendation.

TRAVEL BLOG CONTENTS

SAN VICENTE PALAWAN PRE TRAVEL GUIDE

BEST TIME TO VISIT SAN VICENTE PALAWAN : The dry season – December to May are the best months to visit.  Since most tourists in San Vicente Palawan are Europeans, peak season is from December to February when they are trying to escape the cold weather in their country.  We visited around end of March, the weather was perfect, and there’s not a lot of tourists. We got to swim with a pawikan (sea turtle) too! Avoid the weekends and public holidays if you want lesser crowd.

  SAN VICENTE WI-FI: There’s data and mobile signal for major mobile networks but it’s intermittent.

  SAN VICENTE PALAWAN MODE OF PAYMENT: Everything is on cash basis.  Stack up cash before heading to San Vicente Palawan as there’s no ATM in this town.  Your option is to do money transfer via Palawan Pawnshop, but that’s a lot of hassle. Also, you can go to Caltext station in downtown San Vicente, they can exchange cash with your debit or credit card using a POS Machine, but there is a 6% charge per transaction.

SAN VICENTE PALAWAN ELECTRICITY: Power socket is Type A.  Electricity is 220 V, 60Hz.  Good news is, there’s electricity 24/7 in San Vicente town and even in beach resorts or hotels near or in Long Beach.

  SAN VICENTE PALAWAN SAFETY: San Vicente Palawan is a tourist-friendly place, and safe for  group or solo travelers. However, as in any other places, watch out for your valuables, don’t just leave them anywhere. We heard stories of theft here, so just be careful. I lost my Birkenstock sandals while island hopping in Port Barton. I left it at Maxima Island, and I told my boatman right after I realized I left it. But he said we’ll just get it after lunch, he was confident that it won’t be lost.  Unfortunately, that’s not the case. The staff there said someone from another boat took it, when we went looking for that boat, they denied it. I’m disappointed actually because it never happened to me before while traveling around the Philippines. But then again, I will still encourage you to visit San Vicente Palawan, I’d like to think of it as an isolated case. I hope it won’t happen again to other travelers.

More importantly, take extra care while on tour or when doing adrenaline pumping activities because if mishaps happen (knock on wood) there are only small clinics in San Vicente and in Port Barton. San Vicente Palawan District Hospital is still under construction, and the nearest major hospital is located in Roxas, the next town.

RELATED POST: 2022 SAN VICENTE PALAWAN TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

  where to stay in san vicente palawan.

If San Vicente Palawan is your base, I recommend staying in a beach resort  near Long Beach. Here’s a list of some of the top-rated San Vicente Palawan beach resort and hotels.

• Turublien Long Beach Inn and Beach Bar

Location: Pinagmangalokan Beach (Long Beach) in New Agutaya, San Vicente Palawan

CHECK RATES HERE

If you want to see the main Long Beach strip and stay there,  Turublien Long Beach Inn and Beach Bar at Pinagmangalokan Beach (Long Beach) is a good option, it’s a 3-star accommodation that’s perfect for budget travelers.  We found out about this place from our good friend Gabz of Pinoy Travel Freak .   You have to cross the river using a make-shift raft that will be pulled by the staff of the inn on the other side.  Alex, the owner was pretty helpful and friendly too!

• Victoria Beach House

Location: Alimanguan Beach (Long Beach), San Vicente Palawan

Club Agutaya Resort

Location: New Agutaya, San Vicente Palawan

Jurisu Resort

Nelman’s Nipa Hut

Location: San Vicente, Palawan

SAN VICENTE PALAWAN TRAVEL GUIDE

  HOW TO GET TO SAN VICENTE PALAWAN

  option 1: manila to san vicente palawan.

  1.From Manila, Skyjet flies to San Vicente Airport during Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. Travel time is about 50 minutes. Fare starts at ₱971 ($18, €17, AUD 27).

2.At San Vicente Airport, you can ride a tricycle for ₱75 ($1.43, €1.29, AUD 2) per person to your hotel or beach resort. You may also hire a tricycle to take you to your resort, rate is roughly ₱300 ($6, €5, AUD 8). Travel time is roughly 15 minutes.

  Option 2: Clark to San Vicente Palawan

  1.From Clark, Pampanga, Philippine Airlines has daily flights to San Vicente. Travel time is 1 hour and 30 mins.

2.At San Vicente Airport, you may board a tricycle to your hotel or resort for ₱75 ($1.43, €1.29, AUD 2) per  person.  You can also hire a tricycle to take you to your resort for about ₱300 ($6, €5, AUD 8).

Option 3: Puerto Princesa to San Vicente Palawan

  1.You may also fly to Puerto Princesa International Airport in Puerto Princesa Palawan.

2.From Puerto Princesa Airport or from Puerto Princesa city center, you may take a tricycle to San Jose Terminal for ₱150 ($3, €3, AUD 4), good for 3 -4 passengers.

3.At San Jose Terminal in Puerto Princesa, you may take a van going to San Vicente. There are many vans in Sa Jose Terminal to Port Barton from 4:00 AM t0 5:00 PM, make sure you are riding the van going to San Vicente, not to El Nido or Port Barton.   Van fare is ₱400 ($8, €7, AUD 11) and travel time is about 4 hours.

4.You can alight ask the driver to drop you off at your resort (for an additional fee).  Or alight at San Vicente town proper and take a tricycle to your resort or hotel in San Vicente.  Fare is roughly ₱50 ($0.96, €0.86, AUD 1.41) per person.

Puerto Princesa to San Vicente Palawan Van Schedule

• Virus Shuttle Van

Van Schedule Puerto Princesa to San Vicente: 4:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 5:00 PM

Contact#: +63 998 577 5008

• Saviour Vans

Van Schedule Puerto Princesa to San Vicente: 7:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM

Contact#: +63 946 191 2528

• Cathy Transport

Van Schedule Puerto Princesa to San Vicente: 8:00 AM, 2:00 PM

Alternatively, at San Jose Terminal you may also ride a bus  (SBE bus) to San Vicente Palawan for  ₱350 ($7, €6, AUD 10) per person. Travel time is 4 hours. RESERVE HERE

Puerto Princesa to San Vicente Bus Schedule:  6:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 02:00 PM

Option 4: Port Barton to San Vicente Palawan

1.From Port Barton, you may rent a boat to San Vicente Port for ₱3,000 ($57, €52, AUD 84), good for 4 -6 passengers.

2.At San Vicente Town Proper, you may take a tricycle to Long Beach or to your hotel or beach resort for roughly ₱50 ($0.96, €0.86, AUD 1.41) per person.

Option 5: El Nido to San Vicente Palawan

1.From El Nido Bus terminal, you may take a van to San Vicente Palawan.  Fare is roughly ₱500 ($10, €9, AUD 14) per person.

2.At San Vicente Town Proper, board a tricycle to Long Beach or to your hotel or beach resort for about ₱50 ($0.96, €0.86, AUD 1.41) per person.

 Van schedule El Nido to San Vicente Palawan

El Nido to San Vicente Palawan van schedule: Daily 4:30 AM, 1:00 PM, 6:00 PM

Contact #: +63 926 744 1040, +63 928 622 8666

•  Nature Island

El Nido to San Vicente Palawan van schedule: Daily except Tuesday and Thursday 4:00 AM

Contact #: +63 908 343 2907, +63 915 644 1630

GETTING AROUND IN SAN VICENTE PALAWAN

By tricycle

  From San Vicente town proper, tricycle fare to Long Beach is ₱50 ($0.96, €0.86, AUD 1.41) per person. From San Vicente Airport, tricycle fare to San Vicente Proper or to Long Beach is roughly ₱75 ($1.43, €1.29, AUD 2) per person, but you may hire a tricycle to your hotel for ₱300 ($6, €5, AUD 8).

By motorcycle

  To tour San Vicente, Palawan, you may rent a motorcycle (excluding gas) for ₱500 ($10, €8, AUD 14) per day.

Alternatively, you may hire a motorcycle with driver for ₱1,000 ($19, €17, AUD28) good for 2 persons to explore the beaches of San Vicente like Alimanguan Beach, Erawan Beach (Irawan Beach), and Bato ni Ningning.

By Group Tour (Island Hopping)

If you are a solo traveler or a party of 2 – 3, you can save by joining group tours for Port Barton Island Hopping from San Vicente.  This includes lunch, snorkeling masks, and entrance fees.

Group tour rate is ₱1,200 ($23, €21, AUD34)

By Private Tour (Island Hopping)

If you want a private island hopping tour, you can do so. This includes lunch, snorkeling masks, and entrance fees. Here are the private tour rates (both from Port Barton and San Vicente):

  By Boat Rental

You can also rent a boat to tour around Port Barton, but take note that it doesn’t include gas, lunch, snorkeling masks, and entrance fees. Here are the rates:

Here are the rates for regular destinations:

By the way, there’s an Eco-tourism Fee that every traveler needs to pay when visiting San Vicente or Port Barton.

SAN VICENTE TOURIST MAP

Here’s a tourist map of San Vicente to help you plan your travel itinerary.

SAN VICENTE PALAWAN TOURIST SPOTS

1.san vicente palawan long beach.

•   Entrance: FREE
• How to get to Long Beach San Vicente Palawan: From San Vicente Palawan Airport, you can take a tricycle to Long Beach, travel time is roughly 15 minutes.  Fare depends on which part of Long Beach, Long Beach 3 (Alimanguan Beach) is the farthest so expect to pay more if you’re heading there. Regular tricycle fare is roughly ₱70 ($1.33, €1.20, AUD 1.97) per person, but you have to wait for other passengers or for the tricycle to be full before it leaves.  You can rent the entire tricycle for about ₱250 ($5, €4, AUD 7) – ₱300 ($6, €5, AUD 8).

If coming from San Vicente town proper, you can take a tricycle for about ₱50 ($0.95, €0.85, AUD 1.41) per person.

To simplify things and avoid confusion, let’s divide them into 3 beaches.

• Long Beach 1 – Pinagmangalokan Beach in Brgy.Agutaya. This is the closest to San Vicente Palawan town center.  This is where Turublien Beach is located.
• Long Beach 2 – Enarayan Beach in Brgy.San Isidro. This is where Club Agutaya, the popular luxury resort in San Vicente Palawan is situated.
• Long Beach 3 – Bokbok Beach, Tagpis Beach and Alimanguan Beach in Brgy. Alimanguan. This is where Victoria Beach House is located.

We stayed in Long Beach 1 (Pinagmanglokan Beach) during our trip to San Vicente Palawan. We enjoyed our stay here as it is tranquil, not crowded by tourists.  The beach here is nice, powdery cream sand hugged by azure sea.  It’s good for beach bumming, but I won’t recommend swimming here due to regular waves plus the current seems strong.  The only problem is, there’s no restaurant here unlike in Port Barton that is peppered with cafes and restaurants

2.Bato ni Ningning

• Entrance Fee: ₱10 ($0.19, €0.17, AUD 0.28)
• How to get to Bato ni Ningning:  Hire a motorbike with driver to take you to Bato ni Ningning.

This popular tourist spot in Sa Vicente Palawan was named after “Ningning”, a  defunct TV Show on ABS-CBN that aired back in 2015.  But even long before that, Bato ni Ningning was already a known viewing spot for Irawan Beach (also Erawan Beach) below.  It’s also a perfect spot to watch the scenic sunset in San Vicente Palawan. It also offers a jaw-dropping view of the rice field and the mountains hugging the island.

Now, there’s already a native cottage that was built here, where visitors need to pay a minimal fee for the upkeep of Bato ni Ningning.  Bato ni Ningning is quite far from Long Beach, about 30 – 45 minutes by motorcycle.

3.San Vicente Palawan Beaches

•   Entrance Fee: FREE

San Vicente Palawan’s major tourist attractions are its denim blue, sandy beaches lapping its coast.  As I mentioned above – the following beaches –  Pinagmangalokan Beach, Enarayan Beach, Bokbok Beach, Tagpis Beach, and Alimanguan Beach are all part of Long Beach.   The other beaches after them are Nagtulay Beach, Boong Beach, Erawan Beach (Irawan Beach), Ombo Beach, Boding Beach, and Lumambong Beach.

The best way to explore them is by hiring a motorbike with driver. Rates depend on where you are coming from, but we paid ₱1,000 ($19, €17, AUD28) good for 2 persons, for a motorcycle roundtrip fare to visit Tagpis Beach, Alimanguan Beach, and Bato ni Ningning.   You may also rent a motorcycle for ₱500 ($10, €8, AUD 14) excluding gas per day.

4.Port Barton Island Hopping

  Port Barton island hopping is on top of our things to do in San Vicente Palawan. It is believed that there are roughly 22 islands in Port Barton, a barangay of San Vicente.  Good news is, you can  also visit them by availing of island hopping tours from San Vicente.  Yes, you can join group island hopping tours in Port Barton from San Vicente, Palawan.

The Port Barton Island hopping is divided into 5.  Standard rate is ₱1,200 ($23, €21, AUD34) if your join a group tour.  The tour already includes lunch, masks, and miscellaneous fees. Island hopping starts at 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

• Tour A (Essential Tour) : Turtle Spot, Twin Reef, Inaladelan Island (German Island), Smart Island, Starfish Island
• Tour B (Fishing Life) : Paradise Island, Exotic Island, Sanctuary Reef, Albaguin Village, Starfish Island
• Tour C (Tribal Life):  Aquarium Reef 1 & 2, Reef # 15, Bunungauin Town, Luli Beach Island, White Beach
• Tour D (Water Life): Inaladelan Island (German Island), Reef 1, Lagoon Reef, Bigaho Falls, Pamuayan Beach
• Tour E (More Reefs and Islands): Paradise Island, Maxima Island, Wide Reef, Capsalay Island, Fantastic Reef, Starfish Island

You can also do a private tour like we did, rate is  ₱5,000 ($96, €86, AUD 141) good for 2 persons, and  ₱7,000 ($134, €120, AUD 34)  good for  3-5 persons plus additional ₱1,300 ($25, €22, AUD 37) per extra person.

5.Port Barton

•   Entrance Fee : FREE

6.Inandeng River

7.Mangrove Forest in San Vicente Palawan

You can join a  Mangrove Forest tour in San Vicente by inquiring at the San Vicente Tourism Office.  But since there’s a Mangrove Forest near our beach resort, we took the opportunity to kayak there.  Because it was so silent the thought of crocodiles in the cloudy water scared us, my friend wanted to back out, but it was too beautiful to pass, so I convinced him to go inside. Haha. And good thing we did because it was well worth it.  The place is scenic and it’s also a good photo spot.

8.Pamuayan Falls

•   Entrance Fee: Donation
• How to get to Pamuayan Falls: It’s a few minutes’ walk from Pamuayan Beach and about 1.5 hour trek from Port Barton.

ALSO READ:   TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN SAN VICENTE PALAWAN

San vicente palawan itinerary.

Here’s a sample San Vicente Palawan itinerary, this is good for a 3 day 2 night stay.  This itinerary assumes that you are 2 people traveling and your flight is coming from Manila to San Vicente Palawan.

*Sample budget for San Vicente Palawan itinerary below is per person, and doesn’t include airfare + souvenirs.  Airfare from Manila to San Vicente Palawan via Skyjet starts at ₱971 ($18, €17, AUD 27).

SAN VICENTE PALAWAN TRAVEL TIPS

• Bring sunblock and insect repellent lotion.
• Bring dry bag for your gadgets when island hopping in Port Barton.
• Stack up cash as everything on cash basis. There’s no ATM in San Vicente Palawan or in Port Barton.
• Bring your steel or bamboo straw and reusable water bottle. Refill your water in your hotel.
• Bring power bank, charge your phone and battery after your tour. If you are staying in Port Barton, power is available from 5:30 PM to 12:00 PM.
• Be extra careful when doing activities as there’s no large hospital in town, only small clinics both in San Vicente and Port Barton. The nearest major hospital is in Roxas.

PALAWAN TRAVEL BLOGS:

Puerto princesa travel guide, el nido travel guide, coron travel guide, guimaras travel guide, related posts.

PUERTO GALERA ITINERARY (TRAVEL GUIDE + BUDGET) 2024

ORIENTAL MINDORO: Things to Do in Puerto Galera + Itinerary 2024

BAGUIO TRAVEL GUIDE (ITINERARY + BUDGET) (2024)

2024 LILIW TOURIST SPOTS + ITINERARY

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CORON PALAWAN TRAVEL GUIDE with Budget Itinerary

Once is never enough.

Heck, when it comes to Coron, four times still won’t cut it. This little tourist town in Palawan one of the first destinations we set foot in as travel bloggers, but even after three more visits, we still can’t get enough of it. Its jagged corners are bursting with natural beauty and cultural significance: from the lakes and lagoons of Coron Island, to neighboring beaches, to shipwreck dive sites and coral gardens, to saltwater hot springs, to postcard-worthy views from its mountaintops. Heck, they even have an African Safari nearby.

Yet, every time we return, we always find something new. Coron changes fast, and it’s both good and bad. All it took was return to the top of Mt. Tapyas and we noticed just how much development has sprawled across this side of the island. New hotels and restaurants flank more of its paved streets. More tours are opened to tourists, whose numbers, I bet, more than doubled since our last visit. Prices climb at a near-scary rate.

Coron transforms faster than we update our travel guides, which is part of the reason why we return to Coron more more frequently than to other destinations. Anyway, here’s our latest, most updated Coron Travel Guide. Last updated: September 2018.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

Understanding Coron and Busuanga

Coron is just one of the four municipalities that make up the Calamianes, a stellar group of islands that speck the waters of North Palawan. Busuanga Island is the largest of the group and is politically divided into two municipalities: Busuanga and Coron. Coron is the main tourism hub of the region and has more accommodations and tours, and is the usual jump off point to the surrounding destinations, which is why many of the attractions in Calamianes are often associated with Coron even when they are technically part of other towns.

For example, Calauit and Black Island are actually in Busuanga, but most people think they’re in Coron. The town of Culion is also often tagged Coron, when it is, in fact, a separate municipality.

Another confusing bit: Coron Town is NOT on Coron Island. As mentioned, Coron Town occupies half of Busuanga Island. Coron Island, emphasis on island, is a separate smaller island off the coast of Coron Town. Still with us? Here’s a map to help you digest it better.

How to Get to Coron

For tourists, the main gateway to the Calamianes Islands is Busuanga Airport (USU) , more formally known as Francisco B. Reyes Airport. It is less than an hour away from the town proper of Coron.

But Coron also has a pier, and over the past few years, new boat routes have opened for tourists coming from Manila and other parts of Palawan like Puerto Princesa and El Nido.

Manila to Coron

Flying is the easiest and fastest way to reach Coron from Manila. Cebu Pacific Air, Philippine Airlines, and Skyjet all operate Manila-Busuanga flights.

We’ve tried multiple dates to compare prices, and found the following:

• Skyjet offers the lowest year-round fares.
• Cebu Pacific does more promos for Coron. So if you’re not in a hurry to travel, you can wait for a Cebu Pacific SALE and you can score roundtrip tickets for as low as P2400 (flights only) or P3100 (with baggage).
• Philippine Airlines has good rates, too. There are dates when PAL has much lower fares.

Cebu to Coron

Philippine Airlines offers competitive Busuanga fares from Cebu and Clark.

Clark to Coron

If you book in advance, you might snag these fares.

Puerto Princesa to Coron

2Go Travel ferries passengers from Puerto Princesa to Coron, leaving every Wednesday and Saturday at 11:59PM and arrives the next day at 3PM.

Here are the rates per accommodation type and additional fees.

El Nido to Coron

Montenegro Fastcraft launched in September 2016 a new Coron-El Nido (and vice versa) route, which cuts the travel time to only 4 hours. Schedule and rates below.

Busuanga Airport to Coron Town

As soon as you emerge from the airport’s Arrival area, you’ll be greeted by people asking you what hotel you will be staying. Don’t worry, these are barkers looking for passengers. I was hesitant to go with them because they were a bit too proactive, to say the least, but they are legit if they are in uniform. They are asking for your hotel so they would know which van/shuttle you should board.

• Travel time : 30-40 minutes
• Fare is P150 per person
• You can also hire the entire van for P1500.

The journey is scenic because you’ll be driving across a ranch. If you’re lucky, you’ll see herds of cows crossing the road.

Where to Stay in Coron

There are so many lodging options in Coron but you might still want to strongly consider booking in advance specially during summer (March-May).

On our last visit, we were hosted by Coron Soleil , which is a newly built complex that harbors the Coron Soleil Garden Resort, a 4-star resort. But here’s the catch: located in the same complex is the more pocket-friendly Coron Soleil EXPRESS , a 3-star budget hotel. The thing is, guests staying at Soleil Express have access to the amenities of the complex, which means you’ll be able to enjoy 4-star resort amenities at the price of a budget hotel!

Here’s Coron Soleil’s psychedelic swimming pool, the centerpiece of the resort.

Check Rates & Availability

Top Budget Hotels Under P2000

If money is an issue, here are some of the top budget hotels under P2000 per night, according to Agoda users as of March 2019.

• Hop Hostel . Calle Nueva, Coron Town Proper. Check Rates and Availability
• Aquilah Homestay . Calle Nueva St. Brgy. Poblacion 5. Check Rates and Availability
• The Bay Area Coron . 183 National Hwy, Coron Town Proper. Check Rates and Availability
• Happy Camper Hostel . Coron Town Proper. Check Rates and Availability

Top Budget Guest Houses Under P1000

If you’re working with a really limited budget, consider no-frills, basic guest houses and inns. Here are the four highest-rated around and under P1000 per night, as scored by Agoda users.

• Ahras Place . Coron Town Proper. Check Rates and Availability
• Quiet Place to Stay in Coron . Check Rates and Availability

Search for more: Coron Hotels

Where to eat in coron.

Food is expensive in Coron. According to our boatmen, it’s because many of the ingredients are being imported from Mindoro. But it doesn’t explain why seafood dishes are also expensive.

The price of restaurant meals range from P150 to P400. That P150 is often composed of just a cup of rice and a small serving of a Pinoy viand like tapa, adobo, or liempo. Pasta dishes are usually at P250, grilled seafood (squid or fish) at around P200, and fruit shake at P100-P120.

If you’re not picky, you’ll find cheaper meals at carinderias all around town, but they’re getting harder and harder to find these days. But you’ll find those serving tapsilog for P100 or less. There are small kerbside barbeque stands which costs P10-P25 per stick.

On our last visit, we chose to eat at various restaurants in town, but we found that many of them are overpriced, and they kinda taste the same. Haha. With the following exceptions:

• La Morena Cafe . We ordered this seafood pasta and a big glass of melon shake. Both are unforgettable.
• Carl’s BBQ . Order the Baby Back Ribs. Half slab is P350; Full slab, P520. Huge servings. And tastes great!
• Kawayanan Grill Station . Seafood Platter (P450). Good for 2-3 people. Fresh and grilled perfectly.
• KT’s Sinugba sa Balai . There’s nothing really special about the taste, but the serving here is big and prices affordable, reasonable.
• La Sirenetta . Kinilaw na Tuna.

Aside from La Morena, there are two other coffee places along the main road: Coffee Kong and Fika Indulgence. All three serve satisfying drinks and desserts.

Locals also kept on recommending Santino’s Grill and Amigos’ Smokes and Grill . We weren’t able to try ’em. We tried, but both were closed when we visited because…

Important! Most restaurants and cafes in Coron are open only during lunch time (11am-2pm) and at night (6pm onwards). If you decide to have late lunch at around 3pm, your options will be significantly narrower.

How to Get Around Coron

There are so many interesting and unique destinations in Coron and in nearby towns of Busuanga and Culion. If traveling just within Coron town proper, you can simply take a tricycle. Fare is P10 per person.

But when visiting island destinations, you have two options: join a group tour or charter a private boat .

If you join a Group Tour

You’ll be paying per person and will be sharing the trip with other tourists. You’ll find these tours offered by various operators throughout the town. This is great for those traveling alone or with a small group.

• Pros : You don’t need to worry about anything else. You just pay one time, show up, and the agency will do everything for you. You also get to meet other travelers.
• Cons : You have almost no control of the itinerary and how much time you will be spending at each stop.

If you charter a private boat

You will need to book with Calamian Tourist Boat Association . Their office is at the near end of the Lualhati Park. They have standardized the rates of boat trips depending on the size of the boat needed, the number of passengers, and your destination.

Is it cheaper? Only if you’re a big group. Rates depend on the boat size. For example, for Coron Island Tour, a boat that can accommodate 2-4 passengers costs P2700, 5-8 pax for P3250, or 9-15 pax for P3800. Obviously, you’ll be maximizing this if you’re a group of 10 or bigger.

• Pros : Although there is a suggested itinerary, you have total control of your time and schedule. If you want to stay longer somewhere, you can. If you want to skip a stop, you can too. And as I said, if you’re a big group, it will turn out much cheaper than joining a group tour.
• Cons : The published rates cover only the boat fee. NOT included are the tour guide fee (P500) and entrance fees. Food is NOT included either, so you will need to bring your own provisions. Fortunately, the public market is near the port and the boatmen can prepare and cook your meals at no extra cost, so you can simply shop for ingredients before your trip.

Coron Tours

The following are some of the most popular tours in Coron with the usual destinations covered. Inclusions vary so please confirm with the tour or boat operator first before you seal the deal. I also indicated the usual rates as of March 2017, but bear in mind that these rates vary from operator to operator.

We also provided links to corresponding Klook tours. However, we have to say that we actually find the tours on Klook a bit pricier than usual. I would still just find another tour when I’m there. But if you’re a long-time Klook user and you’re more comfortable booking with them, go ahead.

For you want to pull a DIY or charter a private boat, you’ll find the entrance fee rates in the photo caption. However, like I said, if you’re joining a group tour, you don’t need to worry about the entrance fees because they’re included in the group tour package.

Coron Island Tour

Group tour : P1500-P1800 per pax (All in)

Private boat : P2700 for 2-4 pax, P3250 for 8 pax, P3800 for 9-15 pax

This is the classic Coron Island Tour. The usual Group Tour rate is somewhere between P1500 and P1800. However, you’ll find tours for only P1300 or even as low as P750. Why the big difference? Check the itinerary. The most iconic attractions in Coron are Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon . Many of the offers we found don’t cover both. Some just include Kayangan Lake and a few other stops, or Twin Lagoon and a few other stops. If you want to make the most of your stay, book a tour that has both in the itinerary.

Coron Town Tour

Group tour : P550+ per pax

Alternatively, you might want to do this by yourself because all these are accessible by tricycle and even walking (except Maquinit)

Mt. Tapyas does not require an entrance fee. It’s best enjoyed at sunrise!

Maquinit Hotsprings can be reached by tricycle. Fare is P350 roundtrip. Entrance fee: P200 per person. Best enjoyed after climbing Mt. Tapyas.

Calauit Safari Park Tour

Group tour : P2500-P3000 per pax Private boat : P9300 for 2-4 pax, P10400 for 5-8 pax, P17000 for 15 pax

If you’re joining a Group Tour, you have two options: by land or by sea.

If by sea , you will be stopping at the following:

Other stops: North Cay, South Cay

I personally prefer touring by sea because I am in love with Black Island, which is often not included in land tours.

If by land , your stops will be 2 – 4 in the following, depending on the agency. Make sure to check the itinerary first before booking with any travel agency:

• Calauit Safari Park
• Concepcion Falls
• Malbato Chapel
• North/South Cay
• Pamilacan Island
• Lusong Coral Garden and Gun Boat Wreck

If you’re booking with Klook, the stops will be Calauit Safari Park and either Pamilacan Island or North Cay. I’ve been to both Pamilacan and North Cay, and Black Island is so much better. But if you want to book with Klook, follow the link below:

Malcapuya Island Tour (aka Island Escapade Tour or Beaches Tour)

Group tour : P950-P1700 per pax Private boat : P4350 per 4 pax, P5450 per 8 pax, P7100 per 15 pax

Stops: Malcapuya Island, Banana Island, Bulog Dos Island. Some tours include Malaroyroy Island.

Culion Historical Tour

Group tour : P1300 per pax Private boat : P4350 for 2-4 pax, P4900 for 5-8 pax, P7100 for 9-15 pax

You might also want to check out this travel guide if you want this trip Do-It-Yourself (DIY) style: Culion Travel Guide

Glittering Fireflies and Plankton Tour (with Buffet Dinner)

Group Tour : P950 per pax Package includes : Buffet dinner, hotel transfers, guide fee, and kayak fee Pick-up at 6pm, tour ends at 9:30pm Private Tour NOT AVAILABLE

I can’t stop raving about this tour. This is super magical! Although the fireflies are cool, the real stars of the night are the bioluminescent plankton. When you dip your hands in the water, it sparkles. And when you tap the sides of the boats, the most amazing thing happened: the water beneath us glittered and the lights spread out across the water! If I didn’t hold my jaws in place, they would have dropped into the water. It was insane!

We tried taking photos and videos but it’s just too dark. But it is similar to what’s happening in this video. Not the same, but close to it.

To book, you can message this FB Page: Calamian Islands Travel and Tours

Lusong Ship Wreck and Bulog Dos Tour

Stops : Lusong Shipwreck, Lusong Coral Garden, Bulog Dos Island, Pass Island Group Tour : P1600 per pax

Sample Coron Itinerary + Breakdown of Expenses

The best thing about Coron is that the neighboring islands — all equally mesmerizing — are just a boat ride away. Thus, a trip to Coron will never be complete without a visit to the other destinations surrounding it. Because boat rides and tours are all organized into day tours, it is very easy to build an itinerary.

Below is a sample 4-day 3-night itineraries for 2 pax. I set the meal allowance at P200 per meal outside organized tours. This Coron itinerary assumes you will be staying at a guest house at P1000 per night (P500 per person).

As always, please make the necessary adjustments to fit your flight schedule, duration of stay, or tour preferences.

Day 1: ARRIVAL, DIY TOWN TOUR 09:30 am – ETA Busuanga Airport, travel to Coron: P150 10:30 am – Arrival in Coron, check in at hotel 11:10 am – Lunch: P200 12:00 pm – Canvas tour prices, book tours 04:00 pm – Climb to Mt. Tapyas Viewdeck: FREE 06:30 pm – Maquinit Hot Springs: P350 fare (P175) + P200 entrance fee 08:30 pm – Dinner: P200

Day 2: CORON ISLAND TOUR 07:00 am – Coron Island Tour: P1500 06:00 pm – Fireflies & Night Tour: P950

Day 3: CALAUIT TOUR 07:00 am – Calauit Safari Park Tour: P2500 08:00 pm – Dinner: P200

Day 4: DEPARTURE 06:00 am – Wake up call 07:00 am – Breakfast: P100 08:20 am – Van travel to airport: P150 09:20 am – ETA Busuanga Airport, Terminal Fee: P100

That’s a total of P7925 , excluding airfare.

If that’s still too steep for you, you can remove the Fireflies Tour (please don’t! It’s really good!) and then replace Calauit Tour with something cheaper like Malcapuya Island Tour. This will bring down the total cost to only: P5975!

If you’re able to snag a P3200 promo fare (believe me, it’s possible!), the total is only at P9175 .

Other tips for the Poor Traveler

• If the cost above is still much higher than your budget, stay at a cheaper place. There are fan rooms available for only P400 per night.
• Build a group . Instead of joining a group tour, build a big group that you can share a private tour with. If you can create a party of 8 or more, it would bring down the cost significantly.
• Pick a room within walking distance of Lualhati Park . Tricycle ride costs P10 per person.
• Leave No Trace ! Take your trash with you when you leave, and respect wildlife. Coron is naturally beautiful. Let’s keep it that way!

2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣0️⃣ • 1️⃣ • 1️⃣7️⃣ (updated) 2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣7️⃣ • 5️⃣ • 1️⃣8️⃣ (first up)

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Is this post helpful to you?

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• EL NIDO PALAWAN Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary & Budget
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Gorgeous! We laid over in Manila 2 weeks back flying from Chiang Mai back to NYC. Wonderful place to even fly over, that country is ;) The locals are amazingly friendly, inviting and so proud to show you their beautiful country. I was in the airport for 12 hours and already fell in love with the Philippines. I only imagine how a trip to Coron would go.

Thanks for sharing this eye-popping guide :) Fabulously helpful write up.

You are incredible, Yoshke!!! We are visiting Coron next month and this is a tremendous help. As always, you are my go-to travel blogger and you never disappoint haha. Thanks a million. Just a side note, I’m hoping that the private boat rate for Coron Island Tour just had a typo error; it says 12000 above. :) More power and success to come your way my fave blogger. :)

[…] More detailed travel guide here: Coron Budget Travel Guide […]

Hi sir, “That’s a total of P7875, excluding airfare.” Is the rate for 2 people? Coz booked a flight to coron for 4 days 3 nights. We’re looking at hotel or package. What would you suggest. Plus there’s 9 of us

Per person po.

hi! what travel agency po yung coron island tour? thanks :)

This was an a amazing read and a huge inspiration. My girlfriend and I are traveling to Coron for 3 days at the beginning of March and are very much looking to copy the example itinerary suggested in the post. One question, would you recommend booking the tours in advance or it will be possible to still manage to do that after our arrival. I guess it would depend how busy a period it would be at that time. Thank you very much.

Hi Boris, we were there 2nd week of March last year and yes, you can book when you’re there. It wasn’t that crowded yet. :)

I love this blog! The most detailed one i’ve read, after having read a few.

I’ll be a solo traveller heading for Coron soon, and i’m so glad I came across this one.

Thanks so much.

Although i’ll only be staying for 2 nights (super kulang i know) atleast I have an idea which destinations I shouldn’t miss. ☺️

Thank you rin for visiting! :)

I’ll be at Coron w/my girlfriend on March. We plan to go on a private tour so we can squeeze all the destinations we want in one day.

For the Coron Island Loop tour the agency is charging us 4,150/pax or 8,300 for 2pax (We picked 8 destinations: Kayangan, Barracuda, Twin Lagoon, Hidden Lagoon, Siete Pecados, Skeleton Wreck, Banul Beach and Smith Point White beach).

For the Beaches Escapade (Malcapuya, Banana, Bulog, Waling-Waling) they are charging us 4,500/pax or 9,000 for 2pax. This is our first time in Coron, you think the prices are reasonable or rip off na?

How is Globe LTE signal around Coron town proper?,Our accommodation will be at the town proper and wifi available only at the common areas. I will need to be online during the night cos i work freelance. Is Globe LTE ok? Or i can purchase Smart sim if Smart is better. I just need to have an idea.

Hi Arjay, for a private tour, yes, that sounds reasonable. :)

And yes, Globe performs well in Coron town proper and the LTE signal also reaches some nearby islands, which is awesome!

Is Klook very helpful for solo traveler for each destination? or much better to find travel agency?

can u give contact no of calamian boat asso? di kasi gumagana un 09204037965

Hi Marj, wala po eh. We usually just go to their office sa Lualhati Park and book on the spot.

Hi! Is there an age requirement for the tours? I have a toddler.

Di ko po sure pero parang okay lang naman. Just tell the tour operator when you book para makaprepare sila ng life vest na pambata.

Hi. I just want to ask, do you have any contact person about the private boat rental? I’ve been looking for that source and as I check the bookings at klook, it says it’s a join in tour. Does it mean it’s a joiner tour? I cannot find who to contact about the private boat rental. O baka sa over the counter na ng Calamian na kami mag-book for private tour?

Can you give us a feedback? We’re visiting coron this June na eh.. We are preparing for an itinerary. Thank you so much.

Hi Kristine, we don’t have a contact person. We simply went to Lualhati Park, where the boats are docked and where the office of the boat association is located, and just rented a private boat there.

Hi po… Ung Van po ba pabalik ng Busuanga Airport may terminal po ba? And may time po ba? Thanks a lot…

Pipick-upin ka sa hotel/inn mo. May contact usually ang hotel and guesthouse staff.

Hi, is the current rate for the Ultimate island tour still 1,500 and the island tour including Malcapuya Island costs 1,200? I am planning to go there alone :) Thanks po!

Hi, were planning for family trip to Coron next year March (11 pax), what is the best time (month) do i need to book ticket to get a cheaper price. Thank you.

Wait for a sale. Usually there is a sale on the eve of a holiday like Independence Day or National Heroes’ Day.

You can also download Traveloka app and set up PRICE ALERTS so you get notifications on your phone when the fares drop.

Hello po, additional questions. Ung mga trike into the town pedeng sumakay going anywhere? and how much per head? Thanks.

If within town proper lang, P10. Pero if dun sa mga outskirts, umaabot sa P50 yung singil sa amin. Tapos pag malayo na talaga like yung hot springs, nasa P350 roundtrip.

What’s your pick between coron and el nido then?

Tough question. Hahaha.

If you want diversity of attractions, Coron.

If you want a little bit of nightlife or a strong backpacking vibe, El Nido.

Hi! Included na ba yung environmental fee/entrance fee for each destinations dun sa payment for private boat?

Hi wiwi! No. We discussed it in the post above:

“Cons: The published rates cover only the boat fee. NOT included are the tour guide fee (P500) and ENTRANCE FEES. Food is NOT included either.”

Hi! We will be traveling to Coron this November. Buong family po kami. I have 8 year old, 12 year old, and 2 year old kids po. Di po ba bawal ang kids specially ung 2 years old ko? If okay lang ung 2 year old ko, Babayaran ko P rin ba entrance fee nyA/ nila mga kids?(if renting a private boat?)

Hi Marites, naku, di ko alam yung policy pag kids. :(

Hi! Another question po. Pede ba kaming dun na mgbook ng hotel pagdating? Madami nmn po sigurong mga murang hotels po di ba? Nov I – 5 po kami.

Tsaka pag ng rent kami ng boat my suggestion n rin Sila San pede mg rent ng mga gagamitin tulad ng goggles at lifevest?

Hi Marites, we highly recommend that you book in advance kasi November 1-5 is a long weekend and holiday pa.

I seem to always find myself in your blog whenever i’m doing a research hehe. thanks so much for your great write up. I’ll be going this Dec to Coron. Do you think its best to book ahead of time or straight at Lualhati Park? It seems I can use your itinerary very well for this trip (:

Hi Nyssa, if you’re chartering a private boat, kahit dumiretso ka na sa Lualhati Park. Been to Coron ng peak season a couple of times, parang di naman sila nawawalan ng private boat dun.

Hi, great article thank you! For getting back to the airport what is the usual price in town for a cab? Are there shared shuttles there too?

Hi Maria! Same price as getting in. If you’re staying at a hotel/hostel/guesthouse, the staff usually know a transfer service that can pick you up at the hotel for the same price. :)

Hi, would be interested to know the contact of the travel and tours company that offers private boat tour with the rates that you gave above. Whenever I check online I always see rates per head and not as a group. Thanks!

Nouelle. The private boats I mention in this post are not offered by any tour agency but by the Calamian Tourist Boat Association. They don’t have an online presence so you will have to go to the port near the end of Lualhati Park.

Please read the “IF YOU CHARTER A PRIVATE BOAT” section above for more info.

Ano maganda sa calauit safari park or Malcapuya Island Tour (aka Island Escapade Tour or Beaches Tour)?hindi ba mhal Coron

Hi poor traveler,

I am currently staying in Coron Town. Didn’t know if I should go on the Fireflies and Plankton tour but reading your experience convinced me to do so.

Also, things arw changing really really fast. I’ve visited the hot springs and the entrance fee is P200 per person. Just wanted to let you know for the other travelers! :D

Hi Claudia! Thanks for letting us know about the entrance fee. We’ve updated it because of your tip. :D

Hope you had a great time on the plankton tour!

Thanks for the guide. We will be staying in Coron Island itself and want to use the accomodation’s kayak to paddle along it’s beaches, reefs and lagoons for a day. Since we won’t be able to buy it fresh from the market, do you know if there is any beach in Coron where you can buy some food for lunch?

Hi Petra, unfortunately, I don’t know any. :(

Will travel this coming June 2019 as a big group (9) and we plan on staying at el rio y mar resort. Do you know if at the airport we can actually hire a van for our next day tour to pick us up from our hotel to take us to the coron proper for island hopping? The hotel we are staying in have available tours but really pricey.. around 4K pax for an all day tour

Hi Cei, not sure, but I think usually pumapayag sila sa ganyan. Kung di man sila, pwede kayo mag-ask sa driver if may kilala silang pwede. :)

Hello May I ask if magpapabook pa ba kapag private boat? And yung price na ba yan per pax or as a group na po? Thank you

Yung private boat tour rates, per boat yun so as a group na.

Nice blog Yoshke! this article is very helpful to first time travellers like me… we are planning to visit Coron this july. Do you recommend Calamian Island travel and tours agency for all the activities? I have read good reviews as well as bad reviews regarding this agency.

Hi Olivia, I’ve only tried them with the fireflies tour and our experience was pretty good. Di ko pa sila na-try sa other tours though.

On May 12 po ang flight namin to coron ng mga 7am nandun na po kami. Anu pong available cheap hotel na pwede sa amin na malapit sa airport kc 9am ang flight para po di na kami nagmamadali papuntang airport pauwi. we are 5 traveler po.

Hello po sir . Good day!!! snag a tix to palawan for 1,800 using my getgo points roundtrip na siya kahapon. biglaan lang po yun pagbook kaya grinab ko na.. aug 13-16, 2019 and solo trip ko po. okay lang po kaya na mag isa?? nakita ko po sa sample itinerary nyo sa 1st day canvass tours prices, book tours?? pwede magbook possible on the day of ur arrival or sa klook nalang?? yun pagbook ng tours ba sa place of accomodation?? medyo na confuse ako ..pasensiya sir.. pwede ko ba siyang gawin basis for my trip ds august??

Hi Kim, yep, you can canvass muna since hindi naman peak season, if may free time ka naman. Lakad-lakad ka sa town and compare prices. May mga resorts/hotels/hostels na may contact sila na tour operators so pwede ka rin magpatulong sa kanila, pero may iba na may patong.

Yep, okay lang naman ang Coron kahit solo. Just join group tours para mura and stay at a hostel para you meet other travelers. :)

Hi! I will be following your itinerary, however I will be staying for 5 days and 4 nights. for the 4th Day, I decided in going to Malcapuya Island Tour (aka Island Escapde tour or beaches tour), can you recommend a 4th day itinerary with the Malcapuya Island Tour?

Below is my Itinerary at the moment: (same as yours)

Day 1: Arrival, DIY Town Tour 9:30 am – ETA Busuange Airport, Travel to Coron 10:30 am – Arrival in Coron, check in Hotel 11:10 am – Lunch 12:00 pm – Book Tours 4:00 pm – Climb to Mt. Tapyas Viewdeck 6:30 pm – Maquinit Hot Springs 8:30 pm – Dinner

Day 2: Coron Island Tour (Kayangan Lake & View & Twin lagoon should be included) 7:00 am – Coron Island Tour 6:00 pm – Fireflies & Night Tour

Day 3: Calauit Safari Park Tour (By Sea) 7:00 am – Calauit Safari Park Tour 8:00 pm – Dinner

Day5: I’ll follow you na lang po since pauwi na din po kami niyan :)

Your response will be so much appreciated po.

After Malcapuya Tour, since it would be my last night, I’d probably just chill, relax a little bit at Lualhati Park, and try the cafes at the town center or buy souvenirs. :D

hi! I was just wondering about the Calauit Safari Park Tour–since you mentioned that the other stops of the tour depends on the agency. And if I am planning to join in a group tour, would I still get the chance to visit Black Island? Or this is only accessible if choosing a private boat tour since you said that this is not usually included in the list of stops. Thank you!

May mga group tours na kasama ang Black Island, pero again, depende sya sa agency kasi nag-iiba-iba ang itinerary per agency.

Hi ! Good day! I am always reading your blogs about your travels so bit of a fan here hehe. You’re posts about Cebu helped me a lot when we got there just last May. Now I’m reading some of your blogs again regarding Palawan hehe.

Regarding the Coron tours, you mentioned “private boat”. There are 8 of us so probably mag private boat po kami. Meron po ba kayong idea regarding the entrance fees for the islands?

And am I right na mag private boat na lang kami if marami naman po kami?

Yep, private na lang kung 8 kayo.

Regarding entrance fees, you’ll find them sa captions ng mga images sa post (under Coron Tours). Nasa ilalim ng images ng stops. :)

Nothing about ocam ocam beach, what is wrong with you?

We are planning to travel to Coron and El Nido by this coming April 2020 and I am now making plans for it as I have seen a lot in most vlogs that hotels might be booked so I am avoiding to lodge in a place that I originally didn’t want because I did not plan ahead of time.

Your guide helped a lot! I was completely at lost about planning on how to do it and no idea how to even start but this helped me out!

I have a whole lot of question for you and I hope you can help me out.

We are planning to stay for 4 days 3 nights in Coron and another 4 days and 3 nights in El Nido. Do you think this is enough time to see everything both these places has to offer? Especially Coron.

Also, we are planning to book the hotel in Coron Town (Twin Seasons) do you have any suggestions for this?

Is everything accessible from Coron Town itself? Like doing activities such as Island Hopping, town tours, etc. Speaking of which, can we DIY this? Like basically just land in Coron and pick out what we wanna do for the day based on the availability that we can find from the local tour provider. Do you suggest we DIY or is it best to avail a tour package (private tours)?

Thank you so much and I hope this isn’t too much to ask from you. :D

Thanks for your message!

1. Do you think this is enough time to see everything both these places has to offer? — Everything? Of course not. 4 days is a good length to see *some* of the best that a place has to offer, but not everything.

2. we are planning to book the hotel in Coron Town (Twin Seasons) do you have any suggestions for this? — I have never stayed there so I can’t say anything about it.

3. Yes, everything is accessible from Coron Town.

4. If by DIY you mean finding a tour operator when you’re already in Coron, yes, you can do that. There are a lot of companies that offer open group tours that you can join. If by DIY you mean going from island to island on your own, that’s extremely difficult unless you’re chartering a private boat.

hi! Do you have any recommended agency where to get the Town Tour, Island Tour and Salauit Tour! Thank you so much! Such a big help!

am planning to bring my group by first half of July! hope prices will be down that time.

Is your estimate still consistent in 2021?

Kamusta? May update na po ba ito based dun sa latest video ninyo po? Salamat po. Mabuhay po kayo!

Hi Rhea! Tinatapos pa lang po, hehe. :D

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2024 EL NIDO PALAWAN DIY TRAVEL GUIDE

I was welcomed by an extremely stunning sunset the moment I set foot in El Nido Palawan for the first time. The sky gradually turned into a gorgeous pastel palette. A few settled at the beach, too – in awe of the evenfall hues reflecting into the ocean creating an entirely calming mood. The restaurants ashore started to be filled with people who are tired and famished from exploring the best of the islands. I could hear distant chatters and merry laughter. The small waves softly crashed into the shore – a great music to my ear. I took it as El Nido’s way of telling me that I might have gone in there alone but everything’s going to be all right. So, it did.  

Impressive rock and limestone formation, the crystal waters of the lagoons and beaches that come by surprise, fascinating caves, rich marine life, beaches with grainy to powdery cream to white sand, swells and waves good for surfing, hospitable locals – this is what El Nido, Palawan is all about. To date, it has been living up to be among the best islands in the Philippines and the world with its unique and amazing attractions that continuously invite everyone from anywhere around the globe to explore its wonders.  

About El Nido Palawan

El Nido  is a municipality situated at the northern most part of the mainland Palawan. It was once a part of the municipality of Taytay. It is formerly known as Bacuit later renamed into El Nido (Spanish term for The Nest) by the Spaniards when a nest of a particular bird specie used for a special soup that costs a fortune was found in it.

Language Spoken

Though Tagalog and English are widely spoken in the town due to the frequent interaction with the tourists, often times, locals can be heard speaking in Cuyonin – a language of a group of indigenous people who migrated from Cuyo island to El Nido. Apart from Cuyonin, other prominent indigenous groups residing in the islands of Palawan include Tagbanua, Palaw-an, Calamianin and others.

Best Time to Visit

Best time to visit El Nido is from March to May – the sunny season in Philippines. The waves may be rough on rainy season making it impossible to go on an island hopping activity. Swells at Duli Beach during this season, on the other hand, are not good for surfing. Best time to visit El Nido for such activity is during the last two quarters of the year.  

Getting to, Around and Away El Nido Palawan

1.a. From Manila to Puerto Princesa City Local airlines have several flights daily from Manila to Puerto Princesa City.

1.b. From Puerto Princesa City to El Nido Once arrived, you have to travel for 4-5 hours by land to El Nido by bus or by van. The land travel costs Php 600.00. First trip is as at 5:00 AM and the last trip is at 6:00 PM. You may book your land travels at Book-A-Way Travel .

You may also coordinate with your hotel or resort’s management for the pick up and drop off at the airport for a hassle-free transfer.

2. From Manila/ Clark Airport to El Nido Air Swift has daily flights directly to El Nido. This, though, is more expensive than flying from Manila to Puerto Princesa City.  

1. From Manila Atienza Shipping Lines has a vessel that sails once a week for 24 – 26 hours every Thursday night departing from Baseco Port. Fare is at Php 1,700.00.

2. From Coron, Palawan Phimal and Montenegro Shipping lines have fast crafts sailing daily from Coron Port to El Nido PPA at 8:20 AM and 12:00 NN respectively. Fare is around Php 1,800.00 ($35-$36). The trip takes 3 hours.  

You might also want to read: Coron Palawan Travel Guide 2020

Going Around

Going around El Nido is easy as it is quite a small walkable town. Restaurants, bars, ATMs, convenience stores, souvenir shops, tour agencies’ offices, the port and the beach aren’t far from one another.   Apart from the attractions that require island hopping activity, El Nido also has inland points of interest such as Nacpan Beach, Las Cabañas, Water Falls, Duli Beach, Taraw Cliff and Canopy Walk. These can be reached through riding a motorbike or through renting a private van or tricycle.

Mode of Transportation for inland tours and rates:

• Motorbike rental (self drive)  – Php 500.00/ day (excluding the gas)
• Tricycle  – Php 1,500.00 for up to 3 persons
• Van  – Php 3,000.00 up to 10 persons

El Nido Travel Requirements 2023

As of January 2023, the following are the travel requirements in El Nido, Palawan:

For Fully-vaccinated individuals:

• Confirmed hotel/ resort accommodation booking
• Vaccine certification from vaxcert.doh.gov.ph/ , Bureau of Quarantine or your LGU-issued vaccination card
• Roundtrip airline/ferry tickets

For those with incomplete vaccination or no vaccination:

• 72-hours valid negative RT-PCR test result

Things to Do

1. Island Hopping.  The best way to enjoy the attractions in El Nido is through island hopping. Tour operators usually pick the guests up from their hotels at around 8:30 AM to 9:00 AM for this.

2. Swimming and Snorkeling.  Snorkeling gears are usually included in the tour packages.

3. Diving.  There are several agencies near the the port and boat docking area that offer SCUBA diving. The package usually includes the diving gears, dive master, boat transfer and environmental fees.

4. Trekking to Taraw Cliff.  Taraw Cliff features a massive yet impressive limestone formation that can be hiked (actually, it’s more on a rock climbing). Its peak promises a breath taking bird’s eye view of El Nido. Best time to start the trek is at 5:30 AM – 6:00 AM and usually take an hour or two including the ascent and descent. Tour guide is required and the rate is at Php 500.00 usually per head.

5. Chase Waterfalls.  There are few waterfalls in El Nido that can be explored. You can either charter a tricycle or rent a motorbike in going there.

6. Kayaking and Paddle Boarding.  Kayak rental starts at Php 250.00 for the small ones and Php 300.00 for the bigger ones. It is also the best way to explore small and big lagoon.

7. Watch the sunset at the beach.  Best place to enjoy the sunset is at Las Cabanas.

8. Surfing at Duli Beach.  El Nido isn’t just all about beaches and lagoons but also swells good for surfing. Best time to do surfing in Duli Beach is during the last two quarters of the year.

El Nido Palawan Tour Packages by Northern Hope Travel and Tours

Tour a – php 1,200.00.

Small Lagoon Big Lagoon Secret Lagoon Shimizu Island 7 Commando Beach  

Small and Big Lagoon are optional. An environmental fee of Php 200.00 has to be paid on top of Php 1,200.00 and an additional Php 200.00 for reservation.

TOUR B – Php 1,300.00

Snake Island Entalula Beach Pinagbuyutan Island Cudungnon Cave Cathedral Cave  

TOUR C – Php 1,400.00

Matinloc Shrine Secret Beach Hidden Beach Talisay Beach Helicopter Island

TOUR D – Php 1,200.00

Cadlao Lagoon Inat-nat Beach Paradise Beach Bukal Island Pasandigan Beach

Inland Tours

Duli Beach Nacpan Beach Las Cabañas Waterfalls Zip line and Canopy walk  

Contact Details

Website : www.northernhopetours.com Facebook : Northern Hope Tours El Nido, Palawan Globe ( Mobile Phone): +63 927 735 3221 Smart (Mobile Phone): +63 939 902 2216 Smart (Mobile Phone): +63 942 375 2241  

Where To Eat

There are various restaurants and small canteens around where you can choose from. Food price ranges from Php 150.00 – Php 350.00 per head per meal. Among the many restaurants around the vicinity, the following are the frequently visited ones:

1. Altrove Trattoria El Nido  – specializes on pizza and pasta

2. Athena Cafe  – offers Greek food experience to be best enjoyed with the view of the beach

3. Art Cafe  – an Instagram-worthy cafe that offers pasta and music jam every night near the beach

4. Skyline Bar and Restaurant  – quite a spot to cool down and chill out at night

5. Happiness Express  – A chill and instagram-worthy restobar just across Athena Cafe  

Where To Stay in El Nido Palawan

There are lots of cheap hotels, inns and home stays around and among those are the following:

1. Northern Hope Inn Facebook : Northern Hope Tours El Nido, Palawan Globe (Mobile Phone ) : +63 927 735 3221 Smart (Mobile Phone ) : +63 939 902 2216 Smart (Mobile Phone ) : +63 942 375 2241

2. El Nido Greeviews Beach Resort Facebook: El Nido Greenviews Beach Resort Mobile: +63 916 403 7788   3.  Novie’s Tourist Inn

3. Website:  noviesinn.wix.com/noviesinnofficial/ Facebook page: Novie’s Tourist Inn Email: [email protected] Mobile: +63 908 303 2662

4. Keira Backpackers Facebook account: Keira Backpackers/ Keira Tourist Inn

5. Karmylla El Nido Facebook page: Karmylla’s Place Mobile: +63 906 965 6291

If you’re down for some luxurious hotel and resorts, you should check on the following

1.  Panorama Boutique Hotel & Beach Club Facebook page: Panorama Boutique Hotel & Beach Club, El Nido Email: [email protected] Mobile: +63 998 240 5291

2.  The Nest El Nido Beach Resort Website: www.thenestelnido.com Mobile: +63 917 714 5779

3.  Frangipani El Nido Website:  www.frangipanielnido.com Mobile: +63 917 628 3689

4.  El Nido Moringa Resort Website: www.moringa-respot.com/ Facebook page: El Nido Moringa Resort Mobile: +3 999 537 3006

5.  Vellago Resort Website:  http://vellago.com Email: [email protected] Mobile: +63 917 884 4082

6.  El Nido Bayview Resort Website:  www.elnidobayviewresorts.com/ Facebook page: El Nido Bayview Resort Email: [email protected] Telephone: +632 401 6547 Mobile (Globe): +63 917 889 2727 Mobile (Smart): +63 921 989 6907  

Sample 4 Days – 3 Nights El Nido Palawan Itinerary

DAY 1: (PM) Arrival at Puerto Princesa City Travel to Puerto Princesa City to El Nido Check in to accommodation

DAY 2: Tour A Places to Visit: 1. Small Lagoon 2. Big Lagoon 3. Secret Lagoon 4. Shimizu Island (Lunch Area) 5. Seven Commando Beach

DAY 3: Tour C 1. Matinloc Shrine 2. Secret Beach 3. Hidden Beach 4. Talisay Beach 5. Helicopter Island Evening: Travel from El Nido to Puerto Princesa City Check into accommodation

DAY 4: Home Bound

Note:  Itinerary may still depend on your flight itinerary. This itinerary works best if the booked flight for departure from your place of origin to Puerto Princesa City is in the afternoon so you could still have time to travel to El Nido and rest.   

Sample 4 Days – 3 Nights El Nido Palawan Budget

DAY 1: Van fare from Puerto Princesa to El Nido –  Php 500.00 Dinner –  Php 100.00 Inn – Php 1,200.00 / 2 –  Php 600.00

Total: Php 1,200.00

DAY 2:  Tour A –  Php 1,200.00 Dinner –  Php 150.00 Accommodation – Php 1,200.00 / 2 –  Php 600.00

Total: Php 1,950.00

DAY 3: Tour C –  Php 1,400.00 Dinner –  Php 150.00 Van Fare –  Php 150.00 Accommodation – Php 1,200.00 / 2 –  Php 600.00

Total: Php 2,300.00

DAY 4: Airport Transfer –  Php 100.00

GRAND TOTAL: Php 5,550.00 *Excluding souvenirs and airfare  *Complimentary breakfast is offered in the accommodation *Lunch is included in the tour

Tips in Traveling to El Nido Palawan

1. Bring dry bag and aqua shoes. There are several occasions that will require you to walk and pass through rocks in waters.

2. Use reef-friendly sunscreen.

3. Be a responsible traveler. Do not take home sand, shells, rocks or anything from the islands. Do not leave and throw anything to the ocean.

4. Do not feed the fish nor touch the corals.

5. Food are a little pricey in the town. The cheapest you can get is at Php 100.00 – Php 150.00 for a meal in a small canteen or local restaurant.

6. El Nido is a solo traveler-friendly town. You can just simply join tours by the agency and ask the tour guides to take photos of you. Shall you decide to book your tours with Northern Hope, look for kuya Elfer and Kuya Efren. They take the best photos! Lol.

7. Use of single-use plastic straw and bags is banned in El Nido. Shakes and drinks are sold with bamboo or paper straws and bringing of shopping eco-bags sometimes is necessary when buying something from shops.

8. If you’ll be booking a flight and will coming from Puerto Princesa City, make sure that you’ll book your departure late in the afternoon and your return early in the morning to maximize your stay in El Nido.

9. Matinloc Shrine has an entrance fee of Php 100.00 per head that is not included on the tour package fee.

10. Best place to watch the sunset is in Las Cabañas beach.

11. If you have a weak heart and are planning to go on a hike to Taraw Cliff, think twice. There are no harness and ropes at all. There is no established flat trail but sharp limestone all throughout.  

Parting Words

Anne Elizabeth Gumiran

Anne Elizabeth Gumiran, also known as Queenie, is a 20-something, full-time public school teacher, a part-time travel blogger and a freediver. She started putting her stories of adventures and misadventures into words and pictures in 2017 and continues to do so as she shares her advocacy, Sustainable Traveling.

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11 comments.

Indeed! Palawan is a great place and must be on your bucket list. Ive been to El Nido and spent 3 days, and Puerto Princessa and spent 5 days last year. I wish i could stay longer. LOL. I like the calm environment. So relaxing. So natural. I like the people and the cleanliness of them. But no one knows that it was the last. I mean now that there was corona virus, I’m afraid of. So the next destination if the corona virus already vanished is Coron. I heard of it but never been there.

Coron is quite a great place! It has really good beaches, diving spots and lagoons. Though these may also be present in El Nido, the ones on Coron really have a distinct charm. Also, have you heard about Balabac? It has the best beaches and islands that I’ve seen! It’s at the farthest end of Palawan and it takes 10 hours of travel from Puerto Princesa but it’s worth it!

When did you go? What is it like since COVID and reopening to foreign tourists?

Hi! Aside from Tour A & C, anong recommendation nyo to add tour packages? thanks

I recently tried tour B! Didn’t know it would be that amazing! Go on a land tour, too!!!

Hello, Ms Anne. Thank you for this article, which is wonderful and helpful for the first timers. I am from Malaysia and will be going to Pelawan sometime toward the end of March 2023. Will it be safe and convenient for Malaysians to do self driving tour on rented car in Pelawan? Because we are thinking of slowly and deeply enjoyed all the wonderfull places and people on the island. In the past we have been doing self driving tours in the Asean countries.

Hi, Kenny! Yes, it is safe and convenient to go around El Nido on a self-driving tour especially if you’re visiting the inland attractions 🙂

Yung van fare po ba na P500 one way lang? O roundtrip na po?

It’s only one way po. When we visited last July 2022, it’s at 700 already. I’ll update this one 🙂

Can u recommend me cheap hotel.or inn pls? Ano tour package po ba ang mas sulit?

First time po namin ng family ko magpunta sa el nido, mag DIY lang sana kami pra mkatipid

Pwde parecommend po ng beachfront hotel for.our last stay po?

Thanks po sa reply?

Hello! You may want to check Northern Hope Inn. It’s just a simple inn but very cheap and it’s just by the beach! 🙂

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