If you could bottle up paradise β it would look like Palawan. ποΈβ¨ From the jaw-dropping limestone cliffs of El Nido to the serene turquoise lakes of Coron and the untouched beauty of Balabac, Palawan 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. Itβs a magical blend of adventure, romance, culture, and raw natural beauty. πΊ
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. π Whether you’re ziplining into the ocean, sharing a candlelit dinner on a private beach, or chatting with locals at a vibrant fiesta, Palawan doesnβt just give you a vacation β it gives you a story.
This is where the wild heart of the Philippines beats the loudest β and yet, the calmest. π 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 thatβs 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. πβ¨
ποΈ The Best Beaches in Palawan β βThis Girl is on Fireβ
1. Chill at Nacpan Beach, El Nido π
A stunning 4km stretch of powdery sand, perfect for sunbathing and long walks without the crowds.
2. Travel to Long Beach, San Vicente π
At 14km, this is the longest beach in the Philippines β peaceful, spacious, and absolutely serene.
3. Explore Hidden Beach, El Nido π
Tucked between limestone cliffs, itβs your own private slice of paradise. Bring your snorkel!
4. Beat the Heat at Sabang Beach π
Great for relaxing before or after a tour of the nearby Underground River.
5. Relax on Malcapuya Island π΄
Clear, shallow waters + powdery white sand = perfection. Ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
π€Β Go Island Hopping in Style
6. Kayak through El Nidoβs Lagoons πΆ
The Big, Small, and Secret Lagoons are iconic for good reason β towering limestone walls and clear, warm waters.
7. Snorkel around Shimizu Island π
A marine wonderland with vibrant coral and colorful fish.
8. Discover Matinloc Shrine ποΈ
Climb up the abandoned hilltop shrine for panoramic island views.
9. Walk the sandbar of Snake Island π
A winding sandbar visible at low tideβone of the most Instagrammable spots!
10. Island-hop across Honda Bay, Puerto Princesa π€
Check out Starfish, Cowrie, and Pandan Islands β ideal for a relaxing day trip.
π Palawan Watersports & Adventures
11. Dive WWII Shipwrecks in Coron β
Dive into history with sunken Japanese warships now turned coral gardens. A diverβs dream!
12. Snorkel at Siete Pecados Marine Park π
A top snorkeling spot in Coron, brimming with reef life and vibrant marine species.
13. Paddleboard in Bacuit Bay πββοΈ
Explore the calm, clear waters while surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs.
14. Free dive in Barracuda Lake π€Ώ
Famous for its clear water, thermocline, and alien-like underwater landscapes.
15. Cliff Jump or Hike Taraw Cliff π§ββοΈ
Feeling brave? Leap off cliffs or trek for sunrise views over El Nido town.
ποΈ Explore Nature & Wildlife
16. Tour the Puerto Princesa Underground River π
A UNESCO World Heritage Site β float through limestone caves and marvel at ancient rock formations.
17. Visit Calauit Safari Park π¦
Yes, there are zebras and giraffes in Palawan! A unique wildlife experience.
18. Firefly Watching at Iwahig River π
A magical boat ride under the stars, with thousands of fireflies lighting the way.
19. Hike to Nagkalit-Kalit Waterfalls, El Nido π¦
A scenic jungle trek with a refreshing swim at the end.
20. Witness Sea Turtles on Ursula Island π’
A seasonal eco-tour where you can see nesting turtles in their natural habitat.
π§ Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures
21. Stay in a Bamboo Beach Hut in Port Barton πΊ
Escape the crowds and soak in the tranquility of rustic island life.
22. Boat to Cagdanao Island π₯οΈ
Lesser-known, crystal-clear waters and soft sand await your footprints.
23. Island-hop in Linapacan π
Reputed to have some of the clearest waters in the world. Enough said.
24. Explore Tabon Caves in Quezon π¦΄
Dubbed βThe Cradle of Philippine Civilization,β itβs rich in archaeological history.
25. Venture to the Balabac Islands π₯
Rose-pink sands, rare wildlife, and near-zero β an untouched paradise.
π½οΈ Food, Culture & Local Life
26. Eat Chao Long in Puerto Princesa π
A Vietnamese noodle dish that has become a Palawan staple β comforting and flavorful!
27. Try Tamilok (Woodworm Delicacy) π
Slimy? Yes. Delicious? Surprisingly! A must-try for adventurous foodies.
28. Shop at Binuatan Creations π§Ά
Weaving workshops + unique souvenirs = perfect combo for cultural immersion.
29. Join a Local Fiesta π
Music, food, dancing, and warm Filipino hospitality β donβt miss it if youβre in town!
30. Visit a Native Palawβan Village π£
A respectful and enlightening peek into indigenous culture and traditions.
π Romantic & Instagram-Worthy Spots
31. Catch Sunset at Las Cabanas Beach π
Grab a drink, sink into the sand, and watch the sky turn orange and purple.
32. Private Beach Dinner Under the Stars π
Many resorts offer candlelit dinners on the sand β honeymoonersβ heaven!
33. Trek to Kayangan Lake Viewpoint ποΈ
One of the most iconic views in Coron. Postcard perfect from every angle.
34. Couples’ Spa by the Sea πββοΈπββοΈ
Enjoy a massage with the sound of waves in the background β dreamy!
35. Take a Drone Shot Over Twin Lagoon π
Capture the twin blue lagoons from above for jaw-dropping shots.
πUnique Day Trips & Uncommon Tours
36. Visit Iwahig Penal Farm π
A reform-centered open-air prison with arts and crafts made by inmates.
37. Go on a Mangrove Tour in Sabang π³
Peaceful kayaking through lush mangroves and wildlife-rich areas.
38. Motorbike Along El Nidoβs Coast π΅
Stop wherever beauty calls β waterfalls, beaches, local food stalls.
39. Zipline from the Mountain to the Sea π’
El Nidoβs zipline ends with a splash landing on the beach. Thrilling and scenic!
40. Join a Beach Cleanup or Eco Volunteer Program β»οΈ
Be a responsible traveler and help preserve the paradise you’re enjoying.
π¨Β Where to Stay β Bonus Accommodation Ideas
41. Book a Water Villa at El Nido Resorts π
Eco-luxury at its finest, surrounded by nature and privacy.
42. Stay in a Boutique Cabana in San Vicente π
Affordable yet chic β perfect for couples and solo travelers.
43. Try Glamping near Nacpan Beach βΊ
All the beauty of camping, without any of the effort. Total island vibes!
44. Homestay in Coron with a Local Family π‘
Experience real Filipino hospitality and support local livelihoods.
45. Stay in a Treehouse Lodge in Port Barton πΏ
Rustic charm, forest canopy views, and great for the βgram!
Β For Palawan Philippines
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Always wear reef-safe sunscreen π β protect both your skin and the marine life.
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Be a respectful and ethical traveler π β honor local culture, nature, and wildlife.
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Book in advance during peak season π β especially for tours in El Nido and Coron.
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Keep essentials in dry bags & waterproof cases π¦ β trust us, water gets everywhere.
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Leave room for spontaneity π β sometimes the best memories are unplanned!
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Explore the ultimate guide to Palawan, Philippines! ποΈ From pristine beaches to thrilling island hopping and cultural experiences, discover 45+ magical things to do! π #Palawan #Philippines #IslandHopping #BeachVacation #AdventureTravel #NatureLovers #TravelGuide #TropicalEscape