I am a travel specialist at World Pinoy Flights, and there are innumerable travellers who have been able to plan their holidays in the Philippines, whether in terms of flights, accommodation, or activities. Palawan is one of the many places I can recommend as a real tropical paradise.
Palawan has crystal-clear waters, limestone cliffs, secret lagoons, and family-friendly beaches, providing an adventure, relaxation, and fun mix. Be it a quick holiday out of Metro Manila or a long trip island-hopping, here is my ultimate list of the best activities to do in Palawan.
Top Things to Do in Palawan
1. Explore the Puerto Princesa Underground River
Puerto Princesa must be visited before proceeding to El Nido Niño in the north. Other unique natural features in the Philippines include the Subterranean River National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The experience of riding a boat through the underground river’s stalactites and stalagmites makes one feel as if they are in another world.
I recommend that travellers allow a half day for this adventure. One will generally go on a panoramic ride through the small mangrove and scenery. This is also an informative trip, as you pass by with the children to demonstrate Palawan’s biodiversity. Being in the business of helping passengers plan their trips, I suggest they book early because the number of people in the park is limited to preserve its ecosystem.
2. Take Part in El Niño Shared Boat Tours
No visit to Palawan is complete without El Niño. Shared boat tours are by far the most common way to do it and are commonly known as Tour A, B, C, or D. These tours take tourists to breathtaking lagoons, secluded beaches, and limestone cliffs that resemble postcard images.
Tour A is the one I prefer most because it covers the Big Lagoon and the Small Lagoon, the Secret Lagoon, and offers activities like kayaking, swimming, and relaxing on the white-sand beaches. The combined tours are available as individual or group tours and are less expensive, offering a chance to meet other tourists and see the most iconic places.
3. Select Private El Niño Boat Tours
The new change will be a game-changer for private boat tours in El Niño, especially for travellers who require more privacy or a more flexible schedule. You can make your own choices about where you wish to go, the speed and duration of these tours, and have the privilege of staying as long as you wish in a certain lagoon or skipping the congested areas.
In my experience, when clients decide to do something on their own, they have learned where to go and which places to visit, like beaches with isolation or snorkelling areas not included in the tours. This is particularly suited to a family or a couple who wants to experience a more intimate Palawan holiday.
Choosing the right season also plays a big role in shaping this experience, as conditions in Palawan vary throughout the year, and many travellers plan around the best time to visit Palawan.
4. Kayaking Adventures
Kayaking in El Niño is an activity that should not be missed by anyone who enjoys a little adventure. A majority of the tours, like tour B, will include kayaking in the lagoons and in the calm waters between the limestone cliffs. It is an excellent method for exploring some inaccessible places that larger boats cannot reach.
I recommend kayaking to families with an older child or to tourists seeking an adventure to explore the islands. The experience will enable you to connect with nature, enjoy serene water, and take some of the most beautiful photographs in Palawan, Philippines.
5. Scuba Diving in El Nido
In case you are an underwater enthusiast, El Niño scuba diving will also offer you the most colourful coral reefs and various marine species in the Philippines. Diving in Palawan is a memorable experience, starting with the colourful tropical fish and the great sea turtles.
As a travel expert, I recommend that every traveller include at least one diving session in their itinerary when travelling to El Niño or Coron. There are no shortages of choices even when you have not been scuba diving before. Snorkelling is also a good alternative, particularly when one has little children in the family.
6. Relax at Nacpan Beach
Nothing is better than Nacpan Beach after spending days of adventure. It is the long stretch of white, sandy soil located to the north of El Niño, where one can experience a sense of calm compared to other places that are already densely populated. It is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying spectacular sunsets.
I advise passengers planning activities in Palawan with kids to visit Nacpan Beach. The water is flat, and the broad beach provides ample space for the children to play without any danger.
Bonus Destinations and Activities.
Ferry to Coron
To become a bit more adventurous, a ferry ride between El Niño and Coron can be a perfect activity among travellers who want to visit another marvellous region of Palawan. Coron has shipwreck diving, crystal-clear lakes like Kayangan Lake, and smaller, less popular islands. As a passenger guide, this extension has been helpful and has made the Palawan holiday even better.
Port Barton
When you feel like going at a slower pace, head to Port Barton. It is a perfect place to observe, as a family or a business traveller would not like the crowds. It has beautiful beaches, island tours and a laid-back atmosphere, which supplements the more vigorous El Niño activities.
Travellers are also encouraged to check the latest entry requirements, environmental guidelines, and destination updates before visiting Palawan through the official Department of Tourism website.
Travel Tips from World Pinoy Flights Expert
- The Puerto Princesa to El Niño transfer should be made as early as possible so that maximum time can be utilized.
- Consider private tours in case you are not in a rush and prefer a more personalized experience.
- Bringing snorkelling equipment or renting it in the country will let you have the time of your life viewing the underwater sites in Palawan.
- Wind and tide: Some of these lagoons are very popular during calm weather.
- In the case of the families, select activities that are child-friendly, such as Nacpan Beach and lazy lagoon kayaking.
Final Thoughts
Palawan is indeed one of the most beautiful lands in the Philippines. Having all the drama cliffs of El Niño, the lagoons of Port Barton, and the adventure of the waters of Coron, this Filipino paradise has everything for the traveller.
As a travel consultant at World Pinoy Flights, I have already met most of our passengers on holiday, and I can say with some confidence that a good holiday can be made memorable as long as proper planning and the right tour selection are used. You could be travelling alone, with family, or as a couple. These are the best places to visit in Palawan to ensure you have a full adventure, rest, and a memorable experience.
FAQs about Things to Do in Palawan
When is the appropriate time to travel to Palawan?
November through May is most preferable because it is dry, the seas are calm, and it is the best time for island hopping, kayaking, and diving.
How could El Niño be removed from Puerto Princesa?
It is possible to use a direct van, bus, or personal car. A reservation is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Will the tours be child-friendly in El Niño?
Yes! On shared boat tours and calm lagoons, the children are safe, but when it comes to activities on the water, they should be monitored.
What is the number of days I need to spend in Palawan?
The best amount of time to spend to complete the whole experience is 5-7 days: Puerto Princesa, El Niño, and Coron or Port Barton.
Is it required that I be a scuba diver before I can have fun in the waters of Palawan?
Not necessarily. Snorkelling is also highly rated and offers spectacular views of marine life. First-time divers can also take up beginner diving courses.
