Why Palawan?
Stretching over 400 kilometers along the western edge of the Philippine archipelago, Palawan is the country's last ecological frontier. Its waters are some of the clearest in the world, its limestone karst formations are the stuff of postcards, and its biodiversity — both above and below the waterline — is staggering.
Two destinations anchor most Palawan itineraries: El Nido in the north and Coron to the northeast. Both offer island-hopping tours, but they each have a distinct personality worth understanding before you choose.
El Nido: Lagoons and Limestone
El Nido is famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and white-sand beaches. The town itself is small but vibrant, and the jumping-off point for tours of the Bacuit Archipelago.
Tour Options in El Nido
- Tour A — The most popular: Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island. Best for first-timers.
- Tour B — Includes Entalula Beach, Cathedral Cave, Pinagbuyutan Island. Less crowded.
- Tour C — Focuses on Snake Island, Matinloc Shrine, and Hidden Beach. More adventurous.
- Tour D — Remote: Cadlao Lagoon, Bukal Beach, Paradise Beach. Great for those seeking solitude.
Tours typically run from 8 AM to 5 PM and include lunch prepared on the boat. Prices vary by operator, so book through a licensed outfitter and confirm what's included.
Coron: Wrecks and Lakes
Coron draws a different kind of traveler. It's the wreck diving capital of the Philippines, with a fleet of Japanese warships sunk during World War II resting in its waters. Even snorkelers can see some of the shallower wrecks.
Must-Visit Spots in Coron
- Kayangan Lake — Often called the cleanest lake in Asia. The hike to the viewpoint alone is worth it.
- Twin Lagoon — Two lagoons separated by a limestone wall, with one being naturally warm.
- Barracuda Lake — A thermocline lake where temperatures shift sharply — a diver's playground.
- Skeleton Wreck (Okikawa Maru) — A rusted WWII wreck accessible even to snorkelers.
- Siete Pecados Marine Park — Excellent snorkeling among coral gardens and colorful fish.
El Nido vs. Coron: Which Should You Choose?
| Factor | El Nido | Coron |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Lagoons, beaches, backpackers | Diving, history, nature lakes |
| Crowd Level | Busier (especially Dec–Mar) | Slightly less crowded |
| Access | Direct flights from Manila | Direct flights from Manila |
| Accommodation | Wide range, budget to boutique | More limited, growing fast |
| Nightlife | Lively bar scene | Quieter, more laid-back |
Pro tip: If you have the time, do both! A boat transfer connects El Nido and Coron over two to three days, stopping at incredible islands along the way.
Best Time to Visit Palawan
The dry season (November to May) is ideal for island hopping. Seas are calm, skies are clear, and visibility underwater is excellent. December through March is peak season — book accommodation and tours well in advance.
The wet season (June to October) brings typhoons and rougher seas, but also fewer crowds and lower prices. Some tours operate during mild weather windows.
Practical Travel Tips
- Book tours at least a day in advance, especially during peak season.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine ecosystem.
- Carry cash — ATMs in El Nido and Coron can run out during peak periods.
- Pack a dry bag for your electronics on boat tours.
- Respect environmental rules: no touching coral, no feeding fish, no littering.
Palawan rewards those who treat it gently. Travel responsibly, and it will take your breath away.