Palawan is the Philippines' most spectacular island province, and the highlights split into three bases: El Nido for its towering limestone lagoons, Coron for shipwreck diving and jewel-coloured lakes, and Puerto Princesa for the UNESCO-listed Underground River. Most visitors spend five to seven days and combine at least two of these areas by boat or a short flight. The dry season from November to May offers the calmest seas for island hopping.
Where should you base yourself in Palawan?
| Base | Best for | Signature experience |
|---|---|---|
| El Nido | Lagoons and beaches | Island-hopping Tours A to D |
| Coron | Diving and lakes | Kayangan Lake and WWII wrecks |
| Puerto Princesa | Nature and access | Underground River |
The best things to do in El Nido
- Take the classic island-hopping tours to the Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon and Secret Lagoon.
- Relax on Nacpan Beach, a long stretch of pale sand north of town.
- Kayak between the karst cliffs at sunrise before the day boats arrive.
- Watch sunset from Las Cabanas Beach with a view of the offshore islands.
El Nido regularly features in our roundup of the best islands in the Philippines.
The best things to do in Coron
- Swim in Kayangan Lake, often called the cleanest lake in the country.
- Snorkel or dive the Japanese shipwrecks from the Second World War.
- Soak in Maquinit Hot Springs after a day on the water.
- Hop between Twin Lagoon, Barracuda Lake and Malcapuya Island.
Things to do in Puerto Princesa
Puerto Princesa is the main gateway and home to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you glide by boat through a limestone cave. Add a firefly watching tour on the Iwahig River and a day trip to Honda Bay for easy island hopping and snorkelling.
Best time to go and how to get there
The dry season runs from November to May, with March and April the warmest. Flights connect Manila and Cebu to Puerto Princesa, El Nido and Busuanga (for Coron). Roads between towns are long, so many travellers fly or take a fast ferry between El Nido and Coron. See how Palawan fits a wider trip in our Philippines itinerary, and browse more coastline in our guide to the best beaches in the Philippines.
Travellers who want the boats, transfers and island stays arranged in advance often start from curated Philippines tour packages and then add Palawan to their route.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Palawan?
Five to seven days lets you combine two bases, such as El Nido and Coron, without rushing. If you only have three days, pick one area and focus on its island-hopping tours.
Is El Nido or Coron better?
El Nido is famous for dramatic lagoons and beaches, while Coron is best for diving, lakes and wreck snorkelling. Many visitors do both, connected by a short flight or a fast ferry.
What is the best month to visit Palawan?
December to April is ideal, with calm seas and reliable sunshine. Avoid the peak of the wet season from July to September, when boat tours are more often cancelled.
Do you need to book island-hopping tours in advance?
In peak season it helps to book a day ahead, especially in El Nido. In quieter months you can usually arrange a tour the evening before at your hotel or a local operator.
How do you get from El Nido to Coron?
The most common options are a fast ferry of around three to four hours or a short flight via Busuanga. Ferries can be affected by weather, so allow a buffer day for onward flights.
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