Palawan is often described as the last frontier of the Philippines, a region celebrated for untouched landscapes, thriving marine sanctuaries and some of the most cinematic coastlines in Southeast Asia. If you are planning a tropical escape filled with island-hopping in Palawan, limestone cliffs, emerald lagoons and powdery white beaches, this province offers more than enough to fill any holiday with adventure.
This guide explores the most remarkable Palawan islands to visit, from well-known favourites like El Nido and Coron to slower, quieter destinations such as San Vicente. Whether you are travelling solo, as a couple or with family in tow, the islands of Palawan cater to every style of holidaymaking.
Fun Trivia About Palawan
- Palawan is home to at least 1,780 islands and islets, many of which remain uninhabited.
- The Palawan Underground River is one of the official New 7 Wonders of Nature.
- Bacuit Bay in El Nido is home to such rich marine biodiversity that more than 800 fish species thrive in its waters.
- Coron has WWII shipwrecks recognised as among the world’s best wreck dives.
- Puerto Princesa consistently ranks among the cleanest cities in the Philippines, thanks to strong community-driven environmental programs.
El Nido: The Crown Jewel of Northern Palawan
El Nido is one of the most iconic destinations in the Philippines and an essential stop on any Palawan island-hopping holiday. Located at the northern tip of the province, the town serves as the gateway to towering limestone karsts, turquoise lagoons and reef-protected beaches. What sets El Nido apart is the way each island or cove feels like a world of its own.
Bacuit Bay
This famous bay is home to dramatic rock formations rising sharply from pristine waters. The bay shelters dozens of small islands and beaches, creating an island-hopping paradise.
Big Lagoon
A must-see destination where visitors can kayak through a narrow turquoise channel into a vast lagoon framed by limestone cliffs. It is one of the most photographed spots in El Nido.
Shimizu Island
Known for coral gardens and clear snorkelling spots ideal for beginners. The island is also a peaceful place to take in the views between lagoon visits.
Seven Commandos Beach
A palm-fringed shore with soft sand, ideal for relaxing at the end of a day of touring.
El Nido caters to all travellers, from first-time visitors drawn to lagoon tours to seasoned explorers in search of quiet beaches tucked behind towering cliffs.
"Kayaking at Big Lagoon was the most peaceful moment of our entire Palawan holiday." – Lara G., 2023
San Vicente: The Quiet Side of Palawan
For travellers seeking the best islands in Palawan with fewer crowds, San Vicente is an excellent choice. This emerging destination is best known for Long Beach, a fourteen-kilometre stretch of uninterrupted white sand that remains blissfully uncrowded.
Long Beach
The longest white-sand beach in the Philippines, offering plenty of space to unwind. It is perfect for slow coastal walks, sunrise views and long, quiet afternoons.
Port Barton
A laidback coastal village in San Vicente, popular for relaxed island-hopping routes. Expect beautiful reefs, turtles and calm waters without the commercial feel of other destinations.
Boayan Island
A serene escape for those who want a private slice of Palawan’s natural beauty. The island’s forests and white-sand coves offer a more secluded experience.
San Vicente is ideal for travellers who prefer a slower pace yet still want access to picturesque coves, reefs and beaches.
Coron: A Haven for Divers and Nature Lovers
Coron is celebrated around the world as one of the best wreck-diving destinations. Its lagoons and lakes, often surrounded by limestone cliffs similar to those in El Nido, have become symbols of Palawan’s dramatic seascapes.
Kayangan Lake
Often referred to as the cleanest lake in the Philippines. Visitors must take a short hike to reach a viewpoint overlooking the lagoon before entering the clear waters below.
Twin Lagoons
A breathtaking site where two lagoons meet, separated by a limestone wall. Swimming or paddling through the narrow opening reveals a tranquil, emerald-green lagoon beyond.
Barracuda Lake
Famous for its unique thermocline, where layers of warm and cool water shift within a few metres. It is a fascinating experience for divers.
World War II Shipwrecks
Coron Bay has several Japanese shipwrecks submerged since 1944. Each wreck has become an artificial reef that divers from around the world come to explore.
Okikawa Maru
This sunken oil tanker is a favourite among experienced divers, known for its vibrant coral growth.
Coron balances mystery, natural beauty and history, appealing to divers and non-divers alike.
Puerto Princesa: Nature, Culture and City Comforts
Puerto Princesa is often the first stop for travellers arriving in Palawan. This city, known as the City in the Forest, blends natural attractions with urban conveniences while still prioritising sustainability.
Underground River
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park features cathedral-like caverns, rock formations and an underground waterway stretching more than eight kilometres.
Honda Bay
A classic island-hopping destination near the city with calm waters and sandy beaches. Visitors often stop at Starfish Island, Luli Island and Cowrie Island.
City Eco-Tours
From the butterfly garden to the historical sites and mangrove walks, Puerto Princesa offers family-friendly activities that balance culture and nature.
Puerto Princesa is ideal for first-time visitors and travellers wanting a mix of adventure and accessible city comforts.
Outlying Islands: Hidden Wonders for the Curious Explorer
For those who want to explore beyond the usual routes, Palawan’s lesser-known islands deliver.
Omandhoo
A peaceful island with lush trees, local communities and opportunities for genuine cultural interaction. Perfect for visitors who want to experience local life.
Thulusdhoo
A great spot for surfers and water enthusiasts. Waves here attract experienced riders and curious beginners.
Bikini Beach
A relaxed place for sunbathing or unwinding in quiet corners of the coastline.
These islands offer a more personal and authentic side of Palawan, ideal for travellers who want to go beyond the well-trodden destinations.
Expert Travel Tips
- Visit major lagoons and beaches early to avoid crowds and midday heat.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect Palawan’s marine ecosystems.
- Always carry cash for smaller islands and remote communities.
- Respect local customs, particularly in rural villages.
- Choose domestic flights or private transfers for easier travel between major hubs.
- Keep hydrated and pack light clothing suitable for humid tropical weather.
- Follow local safety guidelines when swimming or snorkelling near reefs.
Plan Your Palawan Journey
From dramatic limestone cliffs in El Nido to the emerald lakes of Coron, the islands of Palawan reveal some of the most breathtaking scenery in Southeast Asia. Each destination offers its own charm, whether you are after underwater discoveries, quiet beaches or UNESCO-listed wonders.
Start planning your Palawan escape by browsing the experiences available through Entire Travel Group. Explore our holiday options and find the island adventure that suits your travel style today.
