location.beaches.districts_subtitle
UNESCO World Heritage Site and New 7 Wonders of Nature. 8.2km navigable underground river through limestone caves with stunning stalactites. Boat tour 45 minutes. Book permits in advance during peak season.
Island hopping paradise 20 minutes from Puerto Princesa. Visit Starfish Island, Luli Island, Cowrie Island for snorkeling, swimming, and beach barbecue lunch. Full day tour with multiple stops.
Hilltop park with panoramic views, gardens, and famous local bakery. Try hopia (Filipino pastry), cashew nuts, and fresh baked goods. Popular stop for souvenirs and snacks. Free entry.
Conservation center home to endemic Palawan species including crocodiles, bearcat, pangolin, and Philippine cockatoo. Educational tours about wildlife protection. Great for families. Small entrance fee.
Gateway beach to Underground River with mangrove forest and zipline. Stay overnight to explore jungle trails, see fireflies, and kayak through mangroves. Relaxed alternative to busy Puerto Princesa.
Blue-domed cathedral in Puerto Princesa city center, built 1872. Beautiful stained glass windows and peaceful interior. Important landmark and active parish church. Free entry, respectful dress required.
Limestone karst formation with cave spelunking and 100-meter zipline. Name comes from gong-like sound when rocks are struck. Adventure activity near Underground River. Includes helmet and guide. 30-45 minutes.
Secluded white sand beach 40 minutes from Puerto Princesa. Good for surfing November-February. Few facilities - bring food and water. Local families offer grilled seafood. Camping possible. Raw natural beauty.
Highland area with zipline, ATV rides, and panoramic views of Puerto Princesa bay and Honda Bay islands. Watch sunset from viewing deck. Popular family activity spot. Multiple adventure packages available.
WWII memorial site where 143 American POWs were burned alive by Japanese forces in 1944. Preserved ruins and memorial markers. Important historical site for understanding Palawan wartime history. Free entry.
faq.subtitle Palawan
Best time is November to May during dry season. December to April offers ideal weather with calm seas perfect for island hopping. Underground River is accessible year-round but book permits in advance during peak season (January-April).
Book through your hotel, local tour operator, or online. Permits are limited daily. Full day tour (1500-2500 PHP) includes van transfer, boat ride, buffet lunch, and 45-min river tour. Book 1-2 days ahead in off-season, 1-2 weeks in peak season.
Van/bus takes 5-6 hours on winding mountain road (500-700 PHP). Vans depart from San Jose Terminal every 30 min from 6am-6pm. Alternative: 1-hour flight with AirSwift (expensive but scenic). Book van seats day before in peak season.
Yes, Palawan is one of the safest destinations in Philippines. Low crime rate, friendly locals, and tourism-focused economy. Main safety concerns: road conditions on mountain routes, boat safety in rough seas, and sun/heat exposure. Use reputable tour operators.
Essentials: reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, waterproof bag, water shoes for island hopping, light rain jacket, motion sickness medicine for boat trips, cash (ATMs limited outside Puerto Princesa), universal power adapter, snorkel gear (optional - can rent).
Useful tips for visiting Palawan
Book Underground River permits 1-2 weeks ahead during peak season (Dec-Apr). Daily quota is strictly limited. Your hotel or tour agency can arrange permits - dont try to walk in.
Carry cash - ATMs are scarce outside Puerto Princesa. El Nido ATMs often run out. Bring enough pesos for your entire trip or withdraw large amounts in Puerto Princesa before heading north.
Puerto Princesa to El Nido van ride is 5-6 hours on winding roads. Take motion sickness medicine, sit in front, and bring snacks. Morning departures arrive before dark.
Try local food at Kinabuchs Grill for grilled seafood, Kalui for Filipino fusion, and Ima Filipino-Vietnamese for pho. Crocodile sisig is a local delicacy worth trying.
For Honda Bay island hopping, bring your own snorkel gear for better quality. Rent a private boat (2500-3500 PHP) for flexibility or join group tour (1500 PHP) to save money.
Stay overnight in Sabang instead of day-tripping from Puerto Princesa. You can explore mangrove firefly tours, jungle trails, and beat the Underground River crowds by going early morning.
Average temperature by month
Tourist area with low crime rate
Very safe province with low crime rate. Main concerns: strong currents at some beaches, jellyfish in certain seasons, motorcycle accidents on mountain roads. Always use licensed tour operators for island hopping.
Attractions and points of interest