Palawan: The Last Frontier of the Philippines

Palawan has consistently been voted the world's best island by international travel publications, and once you arrive, you'll understand why. This elongated island stretching southwest from the main Philippine archipelago is often called "The Last Frontier" for its untouched natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and relatively undeveloped landscapes compared to other popular tourist destinations.

From the dramatic limestone karst formations of El Nido to the world-class wreck diving in Coron and the UNESCO-listed Underground River in Puerto Princesa, Palawan offers experiences that range from serene beach relaxation to adrenaline-pumping adventures. The island's crystal-clear waters teem with marine life, making it a paradise for snorkelers and divers alike.

Top Destinations in Palawan

El Nido: Lagoons and Limestone Paradise

El Nido is arguably Palawan's crown jewel. This municipality encompasses 45 islands and islets characterized by dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and pristine beaches. The famous Big and Small Lagoons offer kayaking through towering karst formations, while Secret Beach requires swimming through a small hole in the rock to discover a hidden paradise.

Island hopping tours are the primary way to explore El Nido's wonders. Tour A covers the most famous lagoons, Tour B focuses on caves and snorkeling spots, Tour C visits remote beaches, and Tour D combines various attractions. Most visitors find that spending 3-4 days allows them to experience multiple tours without feeling rushed.

Puerto Princesa Underground River

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. This navigable underground river flows through a spectacular limestone cave system for 8.2 kilometers, making it one of the longest in the world. Visitors take a guided boat tour through the cathedral-like cave, marveling at impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and unique rock formations.

"The Underground River is more than just a cave tour; it's a journey through millions of years of geological history, complete with an ecosystem that includes bats, swiftlets, and unique cave-adapted species."

Coron: Wreck Diving Capital

For diving enthusiasts, Coron is legendary. The waters here contain several well-preserved Japanese warships from World War II, sunk by American aircraft in 1944. These wrecks, including the Irako, Akitsushima, and Olympia Maru, offer unforgettable diving experiences for both beginners and advanced divers.

Beyond the wrecks, Coron is home to Kayangan Lake, often described as the cleanest lake in the Philippines. The hike to the viewpoint reveals stunning vistas of limestone islands, and swimming in the lake's crystal-clear waters is a surreal experience. Barracuda Lake, another popular spot, features thermoclines where fresh and saltwater meet, creating an unusual temperature sensation.

Best Time to Visit Palawan

The dry season from November to May offers the best conditions for beach activities and island hopping. December through February sees the most pleasant temperatures, though this is also the peak tourist season with higher prices and larger crowds.

The shoulder seasons of November and April-May can offer a good balance of decent weather and fewer tourists. The wet season (June-October) brings afternoon showers and rougher seas, which can affect island hopping tours. However, this period offers lower prices and a more authentic experience of local life.

Getting to Palawan

Puerto Princesa International Airport is the main gateway, with direct flights from Manila, Cebu, and Clark. The flight from Manila takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Several airlines operate this route, including Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia.

From Puerto Princesa, reaching El Nido requires a 5-6 hour van or bus ride through scenic mountain roads. Alternatively, some visitors fly directly to El Nido's small airport (Lio Airport) from Manila, though flight schedules are more limited. Coron is typically reached via ferry from Manila (overnight) or flights to Busuanga Airport.

Where to Stay

Accommodation in Palawan ranges from budget hostels to luxury eco-resorts. In El Nido, the main town offers the most budget-friendly options, while the surrounding areas like Corong-Corong and Nacpan Beach have upscale resorts with stunning views. Puerto Princesa has the widest range of hotels and is a good base for Underground River day trips.

For a unique experience, consider staying in one of the floating cottages or eco-lodges that dot the remote islands. These offer a chance to disconnect from the world and immerse yourself in nature, though they typically require advance booking and boat transfers.

Responsible Tourism

As visitor numbers increase, preserving Palawan's natural beauty becomes increasingly important. The local government has implemented environmental fees and strict regulations to protect sensitive ecosystems. Visitors can contribute by:

• Using reef-safe sunscreen and avoiding touching coral
• Bringing reusable water bottles and bags to reduce plastic waste
• Supporting locally-owned businesses and tour operators
• Following designated trails and respecting wildlife
• Not removing shells, coral, or other natural souvenirs

For more information about visiting Palawan, the Philippines Department of Tourism provides official travel advisories and destination information.