Top 45+ Activities in Palawan Philippines to Experience

If you could bottle up paradise — it would look like Palawan. 🏝️✨ From the jaw-dropping limestone cliffs of El Nido to the serene turquoise lakes of Coron and the untouched beauty of Balabac, Palawan Philippines is a dream woven in sun, sea, and serenity. Voted one of the most beautiful islands in the world, this tropical wonderland offers more than just pretty beaches. It’s a magical blend of adventure, romance, culture, and raw natural beauty. 🌺

Must-Do Experiences in Palawan, Philippines

 

Here, you can glide through secret lagoons on a kayak, dive into sunken WWII shipwrecks, hike jungles to discover waterfalls, or sip fresh coconut juice while watching a fiery sunset paint the sky. 🌅 Whether you’re ziplining into the ocean, sharing a candlelit dinner on a private beach, or chatting with locals at a vibrant fiesta, Palawan doesn’t just give you a vacation — it gives you a story.

This is where the wild heart of the Philippines beats the loudest — and yet, the calmest. 💖 Whether you’re a solo traveler chasing sunrises, a couple seeking intimacy, or a squad ready to explore, Palawan wraps you in its arms with a warmth that’s impossible to forget.

Get ready to dive into a list of 45+ unforgettable things to do in Palawan. Each one is a moment waiting to become a memory. 🌊✨

🏖️ The Best Beaches in Palawan — “This Girl is on Fire”

1. Chill at Nacpan Beach, El Nido 🐚

A stunning 4km stretch of powdery sand, perfect for sunbathing and long walks without the crowds.

2. Travel to Long Beach, San Vicente 🌅

At 14km, this is the longest beach in the Philippines — peaceful, spacious, and absolutely serene.

3. Explore Hidden Beach, El Nido 🔐

Tucked between limestone cliffs, it’s your own private slice of paradise. Bring your snorkel!

4. Beat the Heat at Sabang Beach 🌞

Great for relaxing before or after a tour of the nearby Underground River.

5. Relax on Malcapuya Island 🌴

Clear, shallow waters + powdery white sand = perfection. Ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

🚤  Go Island Hopping in Style

6. Kayak through El Nido’s Lagoons 🛶

The Big, Small, and Secret Lagoons are iconic for good reason — towering limestone walls and clear, warm waters.

7. Snorkel around Shimizu Island 🐠

A marine wonderland with vibrant coral and colorful fish.

8. Discover Matinloc Shrine 🏛️

Climb up the abandoned hilltop shrine for panoramic island views.

9. Walk the sandbar of Snake Island 🐍

A winding sandbar visible at low tide—one of the most Instagrammable spots!

10. Island-hop across Honda Bay, Puerto Princesa 🚤

Check out Starfish, Cowrie, and Pandan Islands — ideal for a relaxing day trip.

🌊 Palawan Watersports & Adventures

11. Dive WWII Shipwrecks in Coron ⚓

Dive into history with sunken Japanese warships now turned coral gardens. A diver’s dream!

12. Snorkel at Siete Pecados Marine Park 🐟

A top snorkeling spot in Coron, brimming with reef life and vibrant marine species.

13. Paddleboard in Bacuit Bay 🏄‍♂️

Explore the calm, clear waters while surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs.

14. Free dive in Barracuda Lake 🤿

Famous for its clear water, thermocline, and alien-like underwater landscapes.

15. Cliff Jump or Hike Taraw Cliff 🧗‍♂️

Feeling brave? Leap off cliffs or trek for sunrise views over El Nido town.

🏞️ Explore Nature & Wildlife

16. Tour the Puerto Princesa Underground River 🌌

A UNESCO World Heritage Site — float through limestone caves and marvel at ancient rock formations.

17. Visit Calauit Safari Park 🦓

Yes, there are zebras and giraffes in Palawan! A unique wildlife experience.

18. Firefly Watching at Iwahig River 🌟

A magical boat ride under the stars, with thousands of fireflies lighting the way.

19. Hike to Nagkalit-Kalit Waterfalls, El Nido 💦

A scenic jungle trek with a refreshing swim at the end.

20. Witness Sea Turtles on Ursula Island 🐢

A seasonal eco-tour where you can see nesting turtles in their natural habitat.

🧭 Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

21. Stay in a Bamboo Beach Hut in Port Barton 🌺

Escape the crowds and soak in the tranquility of rustic island life.

22. Boat to Cagdanao Island 🛥️

Lesser-known, crystal-clear waters and soft sand await your footprints.

23. Island-hop in Linapacan 💎

Reputed to have some of the clearest waters in the world. Enough said.

24. Explore Tabon Caves in Quezon 🦴

Dubbed “The Cradle of Philippine Civilization,” it’s rich in archaeological history.

25. Venture to the Balabac Islands 🔥

Rose-pink sands, rare wildlife, and near-zero — an untouched paradise.

🍽️ Food, Culture & Local Life

26. Eat Chao Long in Puerto Princesa 🍜

A Vietnamese noodle dish that has become a Palawan staple — comforting and flavorful!

27. Try Tamilok (Woodworm Delicacy) 🐛

Slimy? Yes. Delicious? Surprisingly! A must-try for adventurous foodies.

28. Shop at Binuatan Creations 🧶

Weaving workshops + unique souvenirs = perfect combo for cultural immersion.

29. Join a Local Fiesta 🎉

Music, food, dancing, and warm Filipino hospitality — don’t miss it if you’re in town!

30. Visit a Native Palaw’an Village 👣

A respectful and enlightening peek into indigenous culture and traditions.

🌅 Romantic & Instagram-Worthy Spots in Palawan

31. Catch Sunset at Las Cabanas Beach 🌇

Grab a drink, sink into the sand, and watch the sky turn orange and purple.

32. Private Beach Dinner Under the Stars 🌠

Many resorts offer candlelit dinners on the sand — honeymooners’ heaven!

33. Trek to Kayangan Lake Viewpoint 🏞️

One of the most iconic views in Coron. Postcard perfect from every angle.

34. Couples’ Spa by the Sea 💆‍♀️💆‍♂️

Enjoy a massage with the sound of waves in the background — dreamy!

35. Take a Drone Shot Over Twin Lagoon 🚁

Capture the twin blue lagoons from above for jaw-dropping shots.

Unique Day Trips & Uncommon Tours in Palawan Philippines

36. Visit Iwahig Penal Farm 🚔

A reform-centered open-air prison with arts and crafts made by inmates.

37. Go on a Mangrove Tour in Sabang 🌳

Peaceful kayaking through lush mangroves and wildlife-rich areas.

38. Motorbike Along El Nido’s Coast 🛵

Stop wherever beauty calls — waterfalls, beaches, local food stalls.

39. Zipline from the Mountain to the Sea 🎢

El Nido’s zipline ends with a splash landing on the beach. Thrilling and scenic!

40. Join a Beach Cleanup or Eco Volunteer Program ♻️

Be a responsible traveler and help preserve the paradise you’re enjoying.

🏨  Where to Stay — Bonus Accommodation Ideas in Palawan

41. Book a Water Villa at El Nido Resorts 🌊

Eco-luxury at its finest, surrounded by nature and privacy.

42. Stay in a Boutique Cabana in San Vicente 🛌

Affordable yet chic — perfect for couples and solo travelers.

43. Try Glamping near Nacpan Beach ⛺

All the beauty of camping, without any of the effort. Total island vibes!

44. Homestay in Coron with a Local Family 🏡

Experience real Filipino hospitality and support local livelihoods.

45. Stay in a Treehouse Lodge in Port Barton 🌿

Rustic charm, forest canopy views, and great for the ‘gram!

 For Palawan Philippines

• Always wear reef-safe sunscreen 🌞 — protect both your skin and the marine life.

• Be a respectful and ethical traveler 🙏 — honor local culture, nature, and wildlife.

• Book in advance during peak season 📅 — especially for tours in El Nido and Coron.

• Keep essentials in dry bags & waterproof cases 💦 — trust us, water gets everywhere.

• Leave room for spontaneity 🌈 — sometimes the best memories are unplanned!