Discover the best places to see in Palawan Philippines that are mind-blowing!
Looking for picturesque places to visit in Palawan for an unforgettable tropical paradise experience? 🌴 May this list help you experience the ultimate peace and paradise on earth by traveling to the most beautiful natural attractions in Palawan Philippines
Ready for a tropical adventure? 🌊🌴 Dive into this guide on the best places to see in Palawan, Philippines! From pristine beaches and crystal blue waters to unique underwater experiences, this list has got you covered!
Experience Peace in Paradise
Ever wondered what makes Palawan so captivating?
There are many places to see in Palawan Philippines that will make you appreciate nature and God’s creation! The scenery, atmosphere, and surroundings are so heavenly and breathtaking that you would want to slow down, relax, and enjoy the best this world could offer for a little longer.
This post is going to help you how to enjoy Palawan in the best way possible. I will show you my travel photos of the places to see in Palawan Philippines that will make you feel like you’re in paradise. I will also share Palawan’s best tourist spots, natural attractions, things to do, travel tips, and best photo spots based on my travel experiences.
As a Filipino solo traveler in Palawan, Philippines, I can honestly say that Palawan is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places I have seen. I am saying this not necessarily because I am originally from the Philippines. This post will reveal how and why I fell in love with El Nido Palawan and would consider living there one day.
This post is all about the best places you have to see in Palawan Philippines to experience paradise on Earth!
Best Places To See In Palawan Philippines
1. Secret Lagoon
God’s creation is SO incredibly beautiful. Just look at this breathtaking view!
“I never truly appreciated what they call paradise until I saw and experienced it myself” ~Karen
- Location: Miniloc Island, El Nido (Tour A)
- Things to do: Enjoy sightseeing in this picturesque scenery of the towering limestone cliffs, pristine crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery. This is my favorite landscape in El Nido! Just look at this paradise view! It’s the best photo spot for first-time visitors! So don’t forget to photograph such a captivating scenic paradise! For me, the view from a distance on the way to the Secret Lagoon is one of the best places to see in Palawan Philippines!
- Must know: You have to swim to get to the actual “hidden” lagoon and pass through a small opening.
- Book your experience:
- El Nido Island (Tour A) or reach out via CONTACT or Pinterest. I am happy to share/give you the personal contact info of the business tour owner I booked all by El Nido Tours (both shared and private boat island hopping tours).
Palawan Travel Tips
Things to do in El Nido: Besides exploration, relaxation, swimming, snorkeling, photography, and kayaking around the Palawan islands, consider buying and drinking some fresh ‘buko’ juice in its coconut shell (like the one I’m holding here) while island hopping to feel the tropical atmosphere even more! 🌊🌴 You can buy from sellers going around on a kayak boat. Furthermore, if you love mangoes, eat as many fresh Philippine mangoes as you want while enjoying Palawan Island’s beautiful scenery! It’s the best tropical experience for me! I booked a private boat and they had fresh mangoes and seafood that made my paradise adventure more unforgettable!
When to visit: Visit from November to May when the waters are calmer during the dry season. I visited Palawan in April.
What to bring before Island Hopping:
- Reef-safe sunscreen and/or Non-greasy sunscreen
- Water shoes
- Waterproof iPhone case
- Underwater camera
- Microfiber towel (soft, lightweight and absorbent)
- Waterproof Dry Bag
- Extra clothes – Comfy Cotton Shirt Dress
- Swimwear
- Motion sickness medicine and/or Sea-band Anti-Nausea Acupressure Wristband
- Anti-diarrheal medication
- OTC Pain Reliever
- First-aid kit
- If you have an iPhone, bring a wireless MagSafe Battery Pack (very portable and convenient charger) when traveling
- Local cash (to pay for coconut juice, kayak rental, tips, etc)
- Snorkeling gear
- Sun hat
- Sunglasses
- Bug spray
- Wet wipes
- SPF and reef safe lip balm
Know before you go: Check before you book!
- El Nido eco-tourism development fee
- Entry fee to Lagoons
- Aqua shoes, fins, or kayaks (available to rent)
Palawan Safety Tip
- During island hopping, please be careful and mindful when swimming during high tide or rough seas through a narrow entrance to access the beach or lagoon. Please follow your tour guide’s instructions for a safe experience.
Respect the Environment
- Please help preserve the natural beauty by not touching the corals or disturbing the marine life. Always take your trash with you.
- Please do not leave plastics behind. Let’s leave the beautiful places we visited better than when we found them. So our future generations can enjoy this paradise as well!
2. Big Lagoon
- Location: Big Lagoon, El Nido, Palawan (Tour A)
- Things to do: Kayaking, swimming, and exploring around the area. Big Lagoon is one of the best places to see in Palawan Philippines.
- Must know: There’s a small fee of P300 pesos ($5-$6) for a kayak rental to access inside the lagoon. (This lagoon is BIG)
- Tip: If you’re traveling solo, consider going with someone on the kayak because it’s quite a distance getting there and getting back to the tour boat. Since I was traveling solo on a shared boat tour, other solo travelers asked me to go together. However, I politely refused and said I preferred to go solo. To my surprise, one boat staff Kuya offered and convinced me to go with him because the boat staff informed me that the lagoon is big and quite far to get around. I realized I could not go alone (based on what they were saying, and I felt they were concerned) So, I agreed to go with the Kuya. I was so thankful I did because he was so kind with an inspiring story. He even offered to take my pictures. I appreciate him so much I gave him $ a tip!
- Book your experience:
- El Nido Island (Tour A) or reach out via CONTACT or Pinterest. I am happy to share/give you the personal contact info of the business tour owner I booked all by El Nido Tours (both shared and private boat island hopping tours).
3. Payong-Payong Beach
- Location: El Nido (Tour A)
- Things to do: Enjoy the white sand and clear turquoise waters here! The pristine and calm waters make it perfect for a refreshing swim and lounging by the shore to enjoy the lush greenery and limestone formations.
- Book your experience:
- El Nido Island (Tour A) or reach out via CONTACT or Pinterest. I am happy to share/give you the personal contact info of the business tour owner I booked all by El Nido Tours (both shared and private boat island hopping tours).
4. Simizu Island
- Location: El Nido (Tour A)
- Things to do: Snorkeling! Explore El Nido coral reefs and see colorful fish and other sea creatures. If I remember correctly, this is where we had lunch as part of Tour A. It’s a perfect place to sit down and relax your feet on a white sandy beach while enjoying eating seafood!
- Tip: Photograph the turquoise waters with limestone cliffs to capture the breathtaking landscape backdrop! Just look at that clear water! Undoubtedly, Simizu Island is one of the best places to see in Palawan Philippines!
- Book your experience:
- El Nido Island (Tour A) or reach out via CONTACT or Pinterest. I am happy to share/give you the personal contact info of the business tour owner I booked all by El Nido Tours (both shared and private boat island hopping tours).
5. Seven (7) Commandos Beach
- Location: El Nido (Tour A)
- Things to do: Enjoy the long stretch of beach where you can play volleyball with locals or other travelers, do some long walks, or relax and soak up the sun while photographing the breathtaking scenery.
- Travel responsibly: Please consider buying buko juice in its coconut shell that locals would sell. Do not leave plastics behind. Let’s leave the beautiful places we visited better than when we found them.
- Book your experience:
- El Nido Island (Tour A) or reach out via CONTACT or Pinterest. I am happy to share/give you the personal contact info of the business tour owner I booked all by El Nido Tours (both shared and private boat island hopping tours).
- My experience: This was our first stop during Tour A. I chose not to get down because of the high tide. I didn’t want to get wet early on during the tour. So, I decided to stay on the boat and enjoy the scenery from there instead. Based on my El Nido island hopping experiences, you are not required to get off the tour boat at every stop. Some people were choosing to stay behind as well.
- Must Know: Getting on and off the boat can be challenging, especially in the beginning and when it’s high tide. However, the boat staff are always there to help so no worries.
6. Matinloc Shrine
- Location: Matinloc Island in El Nido (Tour C)
- Things to do: Explore the sacred monument built to honor the Virgin Mary. Get a glimpse of the cultural and spiritual significance of the site. Furthermore, if you want to see this scenic view (like the picture taken here above), don’t miss climbing to the top of the viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding natural wonders and islands with clear blue waters. For a first-time visitor to El Nido, Matinloc Island is one of the best places to see in Palawan Philippines!
- Tip: Wear dry water shoes as the rock formation can be slippery and hurt your feet when you climb up.
- Must know: The space at the viewpoint was not that big. Only a few people could fit at a time. Please be careful climbing.
- How did I get this panoramic solo shot? I booked a private boat with a private tour guide. It was my tour guide’s idea and who offered to take me this kind of photo. He was so good. He told me where to stand and said he would take the whole view. I was scared for him because he climbed further up to get this shot. Of course, I gave him a good $ tip as a gratitude.
- Book your experience:
- El Nido Island (Tour C) or reach out via CONTACT or Pinterest. I am happy to share/give you the personal contact info of the business tour owner I booked all by El Nido Tours (both shared and private boat island hopping tours).
Getting sick in El Nido
- This place saved my life: I slept in Matinloc Shrine by the entrance for 2+ hours on some old wooden bench due to my migraine attack. Before arriving here, I couldn’t tolerate the aching in my head and feeling nauseated anymore. So, as soon as I arrived on the island, I had to lie down on the first bench I saw to help with the pain and stop the vomiting. I could tell the locals who saw me lying by the entrance felt very sorry as they approached me and my tour guide. I felt their concerns as they offered me medicine, bottled water, and to sleep in a more comfortable and less exposed area. However, I politely refused with a thank you, saying I had already taken medicine. I added I was okay sleeping on the wooden bench by the entrance since I felt very sick and wanted to lie down immediately and sleep wherever. I can’t believe sleeping here for 2 hours healed me. I woke up refreshed and with the energy needed to continue the island-hopping adventure!
- Tips: Don’t forget to bring your prescription medicines during island hopping. In addition, bring over-the-counter medications that work for you for pain, diarrhea, motion sickness, and other medicines for common travel illnesses you typically get and want to be prepared for and have symptom relief.
7. Star Beach
- Location: El Nido (Tour C)
- Things to do: Star Beach is the perfect spot for water activities and to enjoy the serene surroundings! The calm, clear, and blue waters make it ideal for snorkeling! I enjoyed seeing diverse coral reefs, colorful fishes, and water creatures underwater! Furthermore, for photography enthusiasts, the picturesque view is an absolute must-capture! If it’s your first time visiting El Nido, Start Beach is definately one of the best places to see in Palawan Philippines!
- Must know: The water here is so calm! Snorkeling is a must-do activity at Star Beach!
- Tip: Capture the scenic natural beauty, both underwater and on the beach while you explore Star Beach! This is a great spot to take a floating pose picture with a unique island background!
- Book your experience:
- El Nido Island (Tour C) or reach out via CONTACT or Pinterest. I am happy to share/give you the personal contact info of the business tour owner I booked all by El Nido Tours (both shared and private boat island hopping tours).
8. Secret Beach
- Location: El Nido (Tour C)
- Things to do: Enjoy its pristine beauty by swimming, exploring, snorkeling, photography and relaxation
- Must know: You have to swim through a small hole to get to the secret beach. The secluded beach entrance may be challenging if it’s high tide and you’re not a good swimmer (according to my tour guide). (My experience) My tour guide didn’t recommend going since I wasn’t feeling well. So, instead, I just did some sightseeing around the area, where I was enjoying the peaceful scenery with a refreshing breeze while eating fresh mangoes on the boat.
- Safety Tip: Follow your guide’s instructions for a safe experience. Be careful when swimming during high tide or rough seas through the narrow entrance.
- Book your experience:
- El Nido Island (Tour C) or reach out via CONTACT or Pinterest. I am happy to share/give you the personal contact info of the business tour owner I booked all by El Nido Tours (both shared and private boat island hopping tours).
9. Hidden Beach
- Book your experience:
- El Nido Island (Tour C) or reach out via CONTACT or Pinterest. I am happy to share/give you the personal contact info of the business tour owner I booked all by El Nido Tours (both shared and private boat island hopping tours).
10. Helicopter Island
- Location: El Nido (Tour C)
- Things to do: Do not miss seeing the island’s distinctive shape that resembles a helicopter when viewed from afar! Take a peaceful stroll along the long stretch of beach and feel the serene surroundings. Enjoy the beach exploration and photograph the scenery with the dramatic limestone cliffs.
- Must know: For certified divers, dive with sea turtles! The underwater scenery around Helicopter Island offers exciting diving experiences with diverse marine species and coral formations, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
- Tip: Don’t forget to bring your sunglasses before getting off the boat if you just leisurely want to stroll around the beach! Be cautious of sea currents, especially if planning to snorkel or swim near the cliffs.
- Book your experience:
- El Nido Island (Tour C) or reach out via CONTACT or Pinterest. I am happy to share/give you the personal contact info of the business tour owner I booked all by El Nido Tours (both shared and private boat island hopping tours).
11. Pasandigay Beach
- Location: El Nido (Tour D)
- Things to do: sunbathing, beach combing, picnicking, and opportunities for various water activities (swimming and snorkeling)
- Must know: An island/portable restroom and a small store/shop can be found here.
- Tip: If you prefer a less crowded beach with a serene setting, clear blue water, lush vegetation, and palm trees, this is a perfect tropical charm you must visit! It’s a suitable place for introverts for a peaceful, secluded, and quiet beach.
- Book your experience:
- El Nido Island (Tour D) or reach out via CONTACT or Pinterest. I am happy to share/give you the personal contact info of the business tour owner I booked all by El Nido Tours (both shared and private boat island hopping tours).
12. Puerto Princesa Sabang Beach
- Location: Puerto Princesa
- Things to do: boat tours, nature walks, beach combing, mangrove paddle boat tours, and the usual water activities
- Must know: Sabang Beach is the gateway to the famous Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Tip: Explore the nearby trails and enjoy the lush tropical forest and wildlife. If you want to sit and just relax on a boat, then consider experiencing the unique mangrove ecosystems on a guided paddle boat tour where you can spot various wildlife species.
- Book your experiences:
13. Underground River – Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park
Add the Underground River, one of the New7Wonders of Nature to your Palawan adventure!
- Location: Puerto Princesa
- Things to do: Do not miss the underground river and cave exploration with wildlife watching on a boat tour! The guided boat tour shows interesting limestone formations. Enjoy marveling at the stalactites and stalagmites inside the cave! Your guide will show you unique shapes and resemblances that may surprise you!
- Must know: The underground river is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring one of the world’s longest navigable underground rivers.
- Tip: If you book this Underground River Tour, it comes with an optional activity for an extra fee. You can choose one: Sabang X Zipline or Mangrove Paddle Boat cruise. If you’re up for a thrilling adventure experience with spectacular scenic views, consider adding the zipline to your Palawan bucket list!
- Underground River Tour: This is my favorite Puerto Princesa boat tour because it’s interesting to discover what’s inside. It gives a thrill and mystery, but at the same time, it also has a relaxing atmosphere just sitting and exploring on the boat!
- Tip: Book your tour to the Puerto Princesa Underground River in advance, as permits are required and slots can fill up fast. Most tours include transportation and boat rides with guided exploration of the river.
- Book your experience: Underground River Full-Day Trip with LUNCH and hotel pickup & drop-off
14. Puerto Princesa Sabang Zipline Adventure
The Sabang Zipline Adventure offers a thrilling and memorable experience for those looking to add some excitement to their visit to Puerto Princesa.
Get excited and ride the zipline along Sabang Beach. Enjoy the thrill and breathtaking view ! The view from the top as you go down is a must see ~worth-experiencing~
- Location: near Sabang Beach in Puerto Princesa
- Things to do: Zipline your Palawan adventure from a different perspective with stunning landscapes! This zipline provides an exhilarating experience as a unique way to have breathtaking views, adrenaline-pumping excitement, and a close connection with nature!
- Must know: It does require some walks and hiking to the top of the zipline, then you will zip down to a landing platform near the beach. The hike offers additional opportunities to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area. Did you know the Sabang Zipline is one of the longest ziplines in the Philippines (approximately 800 meters long)?
- Safety Precautions: Stay safe! Ensure that your harness and safety gear are securely fastened before starting the ride. Follow and listen to the safety briefing provided by the guides.
- Tip: If you book this Underground River Tour, it comes with an optional activity for an extra fee. You can choose one: Sabang X Zipline or Mangrove Paddle Boat cruise. If you’re up for a thrilling adventure experience with spectacular scenic views, consider adding the zipline to your Palawan bucket list!
- Tip: Many people take videos while zipping down as they enjoy the breathtaking scenery and the thrill of the zipline adventure! I took videos on my GoPro.Caution: Use at your own risk.
- Book your experience: Combine your zipline adventure with a visit to the Underground River
15. Las Cabanas Beach – Inland Tour El Nido
- Location: A few kilometers south of El Nido town
- Things to do: Watch the sunset, explore resort dining, eat local cuisines, and sip delicious tropical drinks by the beach!
- Must know: This is a chill atmosphere to unwind and relax after an island hopping tour! Don’t miss catching the sunsets here!
- How to get here? We took a tricycle to get here while in El Nido. Other tourists rent a scooter or motorbike for a more flexible and scenic journey.
- Tip: Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the beach and stay for the sunset. If you are traveling solo, you may meet friends during your join-in island hopping tour, and you can head here after. (My experience) I met a young and kind Filipino couple who invited me to join them for dinner by this beach after island hopping. Sometimes, it’s always a warm feeling to have company while solo traveling. So, I agreed to join them!
- Beach Bars and Beachfront Restaurants: Enjoy a drink and a meal by the beach while watching the sunset! Consider having dinner here and tasting fresh seafood and local dishes. They also offer international cuisine.
- Beachfront Resorts: If you want to stay at or near Las Cabanas Beach, there are some budget-friendly and luxurious stays available for booking HERE.
16. El Nido Via Ferrata Canopy Walk
Seeking for more adventure and panoramic scenery?
- Location: El Nido
- Things to do: Enjoy panoramic views of El Nido town and Bacuit Bay by a canopy walk through built-in (via Ferrata) walkways! Other visitors may climb the Taraw Cliff on a regular hike in the dry season. Some visitors choose the Canopy Walk, which is a safer option, and suitable for first-time climbers. Furthermore, when you book your ticket, you can upgrade and add a Dreamcatcher experience if you’d like.
- Must know: This is a safer choice than doing the regular hike. You will still have to face your fears of heights when you decide to do this activity. Please note there’s a bridge you have to cross in the beginning, but you will be equipped with a harness, helmet, and safety gear with a licensed tour guide leading the way to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
This is a must-try activity for adventure seekers visiting Palawan, offering an insta-worthy and unforgettable way to appreciate El Nido’s natural wonders from a unique view!
- Tips: Do this adventure early in the morning when it’s not too hot. Book your visit in advance to secure a spot and ensure availability. Don’t forget to take your insta-worthy travel pictures with the breathtaking views of El Nido town and Bacuit Bay!
- Book your experience: El Nido Via Ferrata Ticket (Canopy Walk Viewdeck +/- Dreamcatcher)
17. Kayangan Lake + Viewpoint, Coron
- Location: Coron Island
- Things to do: Climb up the viewpoint, sightsee, and photograph the picturesque scenery of the cleanest lake in the Philippines! After appreciating the view, you can descend to Kayangan Lake itself. Enjoy the lake by swimming and snorkeling in its crystal-clear waters. Unquestionably, the Kayangan Lake viewpoint is one of the best places to see in Palawan Philippines!
- Must know: There is a 15-20 mins small trek that involves climbing a series of steps.
- Tip: You may want to bring your reusable water bottle or drink/snack since there are limited options at the rest areas and small huts.
- Tips: Check the weather forecast and choose a sunny day for the best view and experience. Take photos as soon as you get to the viewpoint (if there are no/few people) because there may be a line or longer line if you wait.
- Book your experience:
18. Barracuda Lake
- Location: Coron Island
- Things to do: Divers and snorkelers will have the opportunity to experience the mystery, depth, and changes in water temperature that will add to a more unique and unforgettable underwater adventure. The distinct water composition and underwater rock formations’ clear visibility will highlight the natural wonders of Coron.
- Must know: The lake is known for its layers of cold, warm, and hot water as the water temperatures vary considerably within a short distance. The surface water is fresh, which creates a cooler temperature, whereas the deeper layers are much warmer due to the salty composition.
- Safety Precaution: Be mindful of temperature changes in the water.Follow your guide’s instructions. Be careful when swimming and diving underwater because it can be scary.
- Tip: Bring comfortable water shoes for the climb to the lake.
- Book your experience:
19. Twin Lagoon
- Location: Coron Island
- Things to do: Swim, snorkel, and kayak in both lagoons. Experience the thrill of exploring two connected lagoons. Photograph the breathtaking scenery of the towering limestone cliffs with crystal clear waters! Explore the lagoons with the thermocline effect, a mix of cool and warm water due to the merging of freshwater and salt, creating a glistening appearance.
- Must know: You have to swim through a narrow passage that connects the two lagoons. There’s a wooden staircase that allows access over the rocks.
- Safety Tip: Be careful and mindful of the tide levels and currents when swimming through the narrow passage. Please follow your tour guide’s instructions for a safe experience.
- Book your experience:
Summary / Palawan Philippines Travel
Visiting Palawan offers a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, tranquility, and paradise. This list of best places to visit in Palawan Philippines highlights the peaceful and beautiful paradise scenery and experience for those looking to explore the natural wonders of the world.
While exploring Palawan, I felt pure peace and experienced a pristine and serene paradise. For me, it’s more than just island hopping, white-sand beaches, seafood, tropical fruits, coral reefs, and snorkeling. The experiences of harmonious tranquility, simple life, and humanity of the people make this trip truly unforgettable!
The people in Palawan are very polite, friendly, and accommodating. I experienced and felt how they unconditionally served and took good care of me and other tourists well. Even if they have little, they will offer what they have to make you feel better, to keep you at peace, and to make your vacation as enjoyable and relaxed as possible without expecting or asking for anything in return. I am very thankful from the bottom of my heart and will never forget those times.
When I visited El Nido Palawan, I fell in love with the peaceful atmosphere, simple life, kind people, and (of course) the paradise scenery. I knew I fell in love with the peace I found and surrounded by the moment I felt deep in my soul that I would consider living here someday.
There’s something indescribable about the scenery that gives me inner peace, pure clarity, serene freedom, and immense gratitude that something like this in this world exists. It’s amazingly incredible. So, if you want to experience something similar, Palawan is the place to be.
Final Thoughts
I encourage every traveler to visit Palawan at least once in their lifetime.You’ll appreciate life more and feel blessed being alive just seeing heavenly and out-of-this-world sceneries.
Whether you want to experience paradise and peace or are up for an adventure, Palawan can give you an unforgettable adventure of a lifetime! From hidden gems of Puerto Princesa underground river to breathtaking island hopping in El Nido and stunning lakes and diving spots in Coron, Palawan – the Philippines’ most picturesque island has it all! Your dream vacation awaits!
Key Takeaways
Tours A, C, and D are what I would recommend for your first visit to El Nido. Don’t miss the Underground River (one of the New7Wonders of Nature) with a zipline adventure in Puerto Princesa! Furthermore, going on the super ultimate island tour in Coron that will take you to the top and famous Coron destinations is a must to experience the ultimate Paradise on Earth! Lastly, don’t forget to drink fresh coconut juice in its shell and eat fresh Philippine mangoes and seafood to add to an unforgettable tropical experience in Paradise!
El Nido Island Hopping
- Secret Lagoon
- Big Lagoon
- Payong-Payong Beach
- Simizu Island
- 7 Commandos Beach
- Matinloc Shrine
- Star Beach
- Secret Beach
- Hidden Beach
- Helicopter Island
- Pasandigay Beach
Puerto Princesa
12. Puerto Princesa Sabang Beach
13. Puerto Princesa Underground River
14. Puerto Princesa Sabang Zipline Adventure
El Nido Inland Day Tour
15. Las Cabanas Beach
Others: Nacpan Beach, Lio Beach, Duli Beach
El Nido Taraw Cliff Adventure
16. El Nido Via Ferrata Canopy Walk
Super Ultimate Tour – Coron Island Tour
17. Kayangan Lake + Viewpoint
18. Barracuda Lake
19. Twin Lagoon
I hope you enjoy your Paradise adventure in Palawan! If you any have questions, I’d be happy to help!
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