10 Best Things to Do in Palawan on Your First Trip

You may not have heard much about Palawan before but all you really need to know about this island region in the western Philippines is three things: turquoise blue waters, white sandy beaches and limestone ranges that look like they’re straight out of a fantasy film. Interest piqued? Well, we’ll let you in on our little secret – the top 10 best things to do in and around Palawan!

A lot of the fun there is to be had in Palawan revolves around visiting waterways and that is with very good reason. The water here is either clear, baby blue, aqua or turquoise and you’ll want to try to soak in as many of those glorious blue hues as possible.

One of the best ways to do so is by taking a day tour throughout the El Nido Islands. Your first stop will be at Miniloc Island. A visit to this scenic destination will allow you to see its three enchanted lagoons, each one evoking the feeling that you’re swimming in a mermaid’s home.

Explore secret caves and secluded pools of glistening water before you travel to your next destination; the equally majestic Shimizu Islands. Try not to be blinded by its pure white sand or you won’t be able to see the natural beauty at your next stop, 7 Commando Beach.

Spend a while relishing in the swimming and discovery time before heading back to your hotel full of magical new memories.

An underground river? Yes, an underground river. It’s not a typo, it’s a real thing and something you can experience when you visit Palawan.

Located inside the Puerto Princesa Underground River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this river is the longest subterranean river that can be travelled upon and that’s exactly what you can do, all while discovering its uniqueness and exploring its rare features by torchlight.

The Puerto Princesa Underground River National Park is more than just the gateway to the river, it is also home to exotic animals including the peculiarly-named Palawan Bearded Pig and the Palawan Stink Badger. Dugongs can also be found in the waters surrounding the park.

Before you head back to your hotel you will indulge in a fabulous buffet at Sabang Wharf, giving you time to you reflect on the natural marvel you have just witnessed.

Do you want to see all the sights but can’t be bothered lifting a finger? Sometimes it’s best to sit back, relax and let someone else do all the work. On this island hopping tour around Honda Bay you’ll visit multiple islands and see the best Palawan has to offer for a day of sun, surf and sand!

Start off your morning with a trip to Luli Island, which features a lengthy sandbar that is perfect for a casual stroll. Just before lunch, you’ll be whisked off to Cowrie Island where a delicious picnic-style meal will give you the energy you need to take part in some water sports including kayaking, snorkelling or zip around on the banana boat.

Take in your last picturesque stop of the day with a visit to Starfish Island, where you’ll spot loads of – you guessed it – starfish as they ride in on the waves and nestle on the shoreline.

For the most convenient and hassle-free way to take in Palawan, you really can’t look past an island-hopping adventure throughout Honda Bay. 

Puerto Princesa’s heritage is wide-ranging and diverse. From its religious roots to traditional arts and crafts, unusual wildlife and priceless views, there’s plenty to see, do and learn about on a Puerto Princesa city tour.

In just half a day, you can visit the Roman Catholic Immaculate Concepcion Cathedral, the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Centre, the Binuatan Creations Traditional Weaving Centre, Mitra’s Ranch, the Plaza Cuartel and even grab a sweet treat from Baker’s Hill bakery.

Phew! That’s a whole lotta city to take in and best done on a tour where you will be picked up, guided and dropped off when it’s finished. Take a load off and let someone else show you the must-sees and book the City Heritage Tour for your history hit.

The mangroves situated in the Nagsaguipi River are the perfect ecosystem for the countless fireflies whose presence sets the river aglow as the sun hides away each night.

One of the most astonishing things about the fireflies is the way they glow in unison – a phenomenon that only exists in Southeast Asia and sees the light that emanates from the flies perform to a pulsating beat that creates a natural light show.

You can bear witness to this serene sight with a paddle boat ride down the river, which you will embark on following a buffet dinner.

A dreamy activity for nature lovers or those who are romantic at heart. 

What could be more electrifying than taking in the sight of crystal clear water and gleaming white sand, all while flying through the air on the Sabang Zipline?

On this 800-metre thrill ride, you will feel a surge of adrenaline as your senses go into overdrive!

The Sabang Zipline offers an exhilarating release for adults and children (aged 7 +) alike, with the zipline providing an alternative way to enjoy the natural beauty of Palawan from a totally different viewpoint and a completely new pace from the lazy days of swimming and sunbaking you’ve undoubtedly been having.

Can’t get enough of sky-high adventures? Then a parasailing experience might be for you. Flying above the ocean at Coron Island, you’ll spend your morning taking in the idyllic views and maybe even spot some sea life in the crystal clear waters from your uninterrupted vantage point. Parasailing trips can be taken solo or with your favourite vacay buddy.

Once your air travel is complete, you’ll shift into sea captain mode to explore the waters via clear kayak. Yep, that’s a completely see-through kayak so you don’t miss any of the action going on below the water’s surface.

Don’t forget your camera – there will be plenty of time to commemorate your outing as well as some chill time to relax and take in your surroundings.

A word of advice: when it comes to this travel idea, don’t listen to TLC. You definitely will want to go chasing waterfalls in Puerto Princesa.

There’s no shortage of beautiful beaches in Palawan, but if you want to stir things up a bit, why not take a swim at the Bacungan Falls?

Start your morning with a mild trek through the lowland forest, after which you will reach the Bacungan Waterfall. Once you have taken in the amazing views you will be free to choose how you spend your time; whether that means appreciating the soothing waters in the pools or exploring the rocky surrounds.

The waterfall creates the perfect backdrop for a holiday snap that’s sure to get double-tapped as soon as you hit upload, so make sure you save some time to pose up a storm.

What better way to start the day by watching the sunrise after trekking up a mountain? You’ll feel energised and refreshed after you make the trip to 350 metres above sea level at the summit of Mount Magarwak, just 15 kilometres outside of Puerto Princesa.

The walk is suitable for beginners, but the view will please even the most experienced trekker, with an outlook that spans Honda Bay, Puerto Princesa Bay and Puerto Princesa City.

While you admire this panorama, you will be served locally-brewed Palawan coffee and take in a quick bite of the popular Philippine treat, pan de sal. There’s time to recuperate and breathe in the mountain air before descending Mount Magarwak feeling ready to take on the day.

What a charming way to see Palawan from a new aspect, get your heart pumping and work up a sweat all before breakfast time!

Animal lovers rejoice! If you can’t make it all the way to Africa to see giraffes, zebras and antelopes, you will have the chance to do it in the Philippines on this private safari in Calauit. This whole island was declared as a wildlife sanctuary more than forty years ago, so not only will you be able to see these animals, you will also have the chance to feed them personally in an up-close encounter you will never forget.

After your safari experience, you will embark on a tour of the town of Busuanga, including a visit to Malbato Church and Concepcion Falls.

To top off this exciting day you can enjoy a refreshing dip and a delicious lunch at Ocam Ocam Beach.

Palawan is the perfect mix of laziness and adventure which we think makes for the best vacay ever! A fusion of sunbaking and adrenaline here we come.

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