Top 10 Best Things to Do in Palawan Island, Philippines [Palawan Island Travel Guide 2024]

Imagine yourself standing on the edge of a crystal-clear lagoon, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs that rise majestically from the turquoise waters. The warm tropical sun casts a golden glow over the landscape, and the gentle breeze carries the sweet scent of blooming flowers. This is Palawan, an archipelago in the Philippines renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse attractions that have captivated travelers from around the world. Beyond its popular destinations like El Nido and Coron, Palawan offers a wealth of experiences that delve into its natural beauty and cultural heritage. From snorkeling through vibrant marine life to exploring ancient caves, every moment in Palawan is an opportunity to discover something new and unforgettable.

Palawan is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse attractions. While El Nido and Coron are popular destinations, the island offers numerous other experiences that showcase its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Here are the top 10 activities to consider during your visit to Palawan:

1. Honda Bay Island Hopping:

Located approximately 45 minutes from Puerto Princesa, Honda Bay features several picturesque islands such as Pandan Island, Cowrie Island, Luli Island, Starfish Island, and Verde Island. Each boasts pristine white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters, ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxation.

2. Diving in Bacuit Bay, El Nido:

Bacuit Bay is a diver's paradise, offering rich marine life and intriguing underwater formations, including a 50-meter underwater cliff and a 12-meter tunnel. Divers can encounter species like spotted moray eels and green sea turtles. Night dives may reveal elusive creatures such as seahorses, shrimp, and cat sharks.

3. Exploring Port Barton:

This tranquil fishing village on Palawan's northwest coast provides a serene alternative to busier tourist spots. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, sunbathing on uncrowded beaches, and observing local life. Accommodations are budget-friendly, though electricity may be limited.

4. Visiting the Tabon Caves:

Situated on a peninsula in southern Palawan, the Tabon Caves are historically significant as the discovery site of the Tabon Man, among the oldest human remains in the Philippines. The area serves as a national museum, featuring large cathedral-like caves such as the Diwata and Liyang Caves.

5. Touring the Underground River:

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features an 8.2-kilometer underground river, one of the world's longest. Guided boat tours navigate through impressive cave systems adorned with stalactites and stalagmites. Due to its popularity, it's advisable to book tours in advance.

6. Swimming at Estrella Falls:

Located near Narra, Estrella Falls offers a refreshing retreat with its 20-foot twin waterfalls cascading into a clear blue basin. The area includes multiple pools of varying depths, providing ample space for swimming and relaxation.

7. Diving at Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park:

Positioned in the Sulu Sea, this UNESCO World Heritage Site encompasses pristine coral reefs, a 100-meter perpendicular wall, extensive lagoons, and two coral islands. The park is a haven for diverse marine life, including green sea turtles, manta rays, various shark species, and vibrant fish populations.

8. Wreck Diving in Busuanga Island:

Near Coron, Busuanga Island is renowned for its World War II Japanese shipwrecks, sunk in 1944. These wrecks, located at depths ranging from 12 to 43 meters, have become popular dive sites, offering a unique glimpse into history amidst thriving marine ecosystems.

9. Island Hopping to Simizu Island:

Part of the El Nido island hopping tours, Simizu Island is known for its striking limestone cliffs and vibrant marine life. Snorkelers can feed schools of colorful fish, while the island's small beach provides excellent photo opportunities.

10. Hiking to Bakbakan Falls:

In Brooke's Point, Bakbakan Falls features a 64-meter cascade flowing into a cool, inviting pool. The journey involves a hike through rugged terrain, rewarding adventurers with a serene and less-visited natural attraction. These activities highlight the diverse experiences Palawan offers, from adventure and history to relaxation and natural beauty.

Palawan is a paradise for travelers, offering a wide range of activities and attractions that showcase its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Here are ten top activities to consider during your visit:

Top 10 Activities in Palawan

1. Honda Bay Island Hopping
   • Location: Approximately 45 minutes from Puerto Princesa.
   • Features: Picturesque islands like Pandan, Cowrie, Luli, Starfish, and Verde Island with pristine beaches and clear waters ideal for snorkeling.
2. Diving in Bacuit Bay, El Nido
   • Highlights: Rich marine life including spotted moray eels and green sea turtles; underwater formations like a 50-meter cliff.
   • Unique Experience: Night dives can reveal seahorses or cat sharks.
3. Exploring Port Barton
   • A tranquil fishing village offering kayaking opportunities and serene beaches.
   • Budget-friendly accommodations available.
4. Visiting the Tabon Caves
   • Located on a peninsula in southern Palawan.
   • Historically significant as the discovery site of the Tabon Man; features large cathedral-like caves.
5. Touring the Underground River
   • Part of Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
   • Features an impressive underground river system with stalactites and stalagmites; guided tours recommended.
6. Swimming at Estrella Falls
   • Located near Narra with twin waterfalls cascading into clear pools suitable for swimming.
7. Diving at Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
   • UNESCO World Heritage Site known for pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life including green sea turtles.
8. Wreck Diving in Busuanga Island (Coron)
   • Famous for World War II Japanese shipwrecks providing unique historical dive experiences amidst thriving ecosystems.
9. Island Hopping to Simizu Island (El Nido)
   – Known for striking limestone cliffs; snorkelers can feed colorful fish here.
10. Hiking to Bakbakan Falls (Brooke's Point)
    – Offers a serene natural attraction after hiking through rugged terrain; features a 64-meter waterfall flowing into an inviting pool.

Additional Attractions

• Other notable places include:
  • El Nido's Big Lagoon & Small Lagoon
  • Coron's Kayangan Lake
  • Las Cabanas Beach
  • Hidden Beach
  • Lio Beach.
• For those interested in wildlife: Calauit Game Refuge & Wildlife Sanctuary offers interactions with zebras, giraffes.

Palawan truly offers something for everyone whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration making it one of the world's most sought-after destinations.

As you conclude your journey through Palawan's enchanting landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, it becomes clear why this island paradise has captured so many hearts. Whether you find yourself island-hopping in Honda Bay or diving into the depths of Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, each experience leaves an indelible mark on your soul. The tranquility of Port Barton's beaches contrasts beautifully with the thrill of wreck diving near Coron or hiking to Bakbakan Falls' serene pools. Every corner of Palawan tells a story of history at Tabon Caves, nature at Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, or adventure amidst El Nido's limestone cliffs.

Palawan is more than just a destination; it is an odyssey that awakens your senses to nature's splendor while connecting you with local traditions and people who warmly welcome visitors as part of their community. As you leave this enchanting place behind, carry with you not only memories but also a newfound appreciation for life’s simple joys like watching sunset over pristine waters or sharing laughter with fellow travelers under starlit skies.

In essence, Palawan embodies what travel should be: transformative journeys filled with wonderment that remind us why we explore our beautiful world to discover new horizons within ourselves as much as around us. Whether seeking adventure or serenity, every traveler will find their own piece of paradise here a testament to why Palawan remains one of Earth’s most cherished treasures for those fortunate enough to visit it.