Palawan is a narrow archipelago of 1,780 islands on the western border of the Philippines, it is bound by the South China Sea on the west and Sulu Sea on the east. With a land area of 1,703,075 hectares, it stretches 650km from tip to tip. The capital city, Puerto Princesa, is approximately 1 hour air travel and 24 hours boat travel southwest of Manila.
Reason 1: Little Baguio Falls
Located in San Vicente, western coast of Northern Palawan, this attraction differs from others because of the way the water shimmers as it gently rolls down the rocks. The thick foliage surrounding it further enhances its natural grandeur.
Reason 2: New Agutaya
Its beach holds the distinction of being the longest in the country. Enjoy the sun, sand and sea as you pick your spot along its resort-dotted 14-km stretch. Ideal for youth and adventure travelers.
Reason 3: Daplac Cove
This gorgeous swimming spot is found in a calm, crystal clear setting that gives off the appearance of a swimming pool. Spend the day lazing in the water as you take in the sight and smell of lower laden Talisay trees which line the shore.
Reason 4: Decala Heron Sanctuary
Bound for San Vicente? Visit this fabulous sight of shallow cove as it becomes a busy hotel welcoming thousands of white herons that fly in from every conceivable direction just before sunset. Capture the opportunity of seeing these birds roost.
Reason 5: Malapacao Island
Found among the islands in Bacuit Bay. Malapacao is a private island home to an island retreat. It offers an alternative way of living that is wholesome, healthy and unfettered by artificial convenience. Explore its caves and corals, grab a massage or just stretch out and absorb the beauty around you.
Reason 6: Tapiutan Island
Located on the fringes of Bacuit Bay, it is an ideal island for exploring the enthralling world under the sea with its rich marine life that entices you to be part of the fun.
Reason 7: Bacuit Bay
Located on the northern tip of mainland Palawan, this haven for exploration offers many stunning sights and places scattered about the many islands. Hidden lagoons and deserted beaches plus seas full of life and color, all these await discovery and promise a well remembered adventure.
Reason 8: Paglubagan Island
A showcase of some of the best coral gardens, it's an ideal venue for seeing first hand the splendor of underwater cities and life that abounds with biodiversity. Situated within the El Nido Marine Reserve area.
Reason 9: Lagen Island
The island is a haven of El Nido's flora and fauna. A rich diversity can be found in its forest, a home to a myriad of birds and mammals. To get there, take the trail behind Lagen Island Resort to explore the hidden wonders in nooks and crannies of the forest. Paddle back to the resort via kayak.
Reason 10: Caalan Beach
If sunsets are your hing, then head off to this beach. It is lined with quaint cottages. Sit on the sand and watch the sun shed the last of its golden light. Caalan Beach is a short shoreline hike from the town of te El Nido.
Reason 11: Bulalacao Falls
This attraction is recommended for the fit and adventurous. For those who revel in trekking through rice fields and forested mountain slopes, getting there will certainly be half the fun. It's a 25 minute jeepney ride from Barangay Pasadeña followed by a 2 hour hike.
Reason 12: Cadlao Island
White sands, lagoons and healthy forests surround a 609 meter peak. These are the main attractions of this island in Bacuit Bay. A chartered boat from the town of El Nido brings the visitor to the island.
Reason 13: Culion Island
Once the site of the biggest leper colonies in the world, its victory over the dreaded disease has enabled it to earn a place among the jewels of Boracay crown. It is now a feast for the eyes with its rolling mountains and hills that serve as a gorgeous backdrop for icons such as the Culion Fort and the Culion Cathdreal. It’s also blessed with mangroves and a rich marine environment for dugongs. This island is part of the Calamian Croup in Northern Palawan.
Reason 14: Calauit Island
As a breeding center, this island sanctuary is home to African animals and those endemic to the Philippines. Observe this habitat and the varieties of flora and fauna. After the wildlife tour, freshen up in the surrounding clear waters and reefs teeming with biodiversity. The said island is located in Busuanga.
Reason 15: Busuanga Island
White beaches, emerald seas and sun-drenched islands greet visitors. Busuanga is blessed with good weather ideal for nature lovers. Diving and hiking are popular activities because of the many nature trails, attractions and excellent dive sites. Main travel hub of the Calamianes Group is via the Busuanga Airport or the Coron Port.
Reason 16: Kayangan Lake
Awarded as the cleanest lake in the Philippines, it is also known as the Blue Lagoon for its breathtaking beauty. Lose yourself in the magnificence of nature, trek along its trails and take in the splendour of a big picture view when you reach the peak. It is located in Coron Island, Northern Palawan
Reason 17: Coron Island
Located in the Calamianes group of islands in northern Palawan, this sparsely inhabited island is among the most scenic in the country. The sky sets a perfect backdrop as it showcases the towering limestone cliffs and pristine lagoons. This destination is an example of beauty found only in nature.
Reason 18: Manguao Lake
Covering 660 hectares, this freshwater lake hosts endemic and rare species of fish, thus becoming a focal point for environmental protection and management. Paddling, trekking, swimming, fishing and camping are the activities of choice around the lake perimeter. Lake Manguao in Taytay is the biggest lake in the province.
Reason 19: Lake Danao
Covering 661 hectares, Lake Danao is believed to be the remains of an extinct volcano that collapsed millions of years ago. This freshwater lake, located in Taytay, northern Palawan, is a 2 hour hike from the town proper.
Reason 20: Malampaya Sound
This large bay harbours Irrawady dolphins, dugongs and sea turtles. It is also surrounded by lush forests and is home to many different animal species such as bearcats, civets, mynas and eagles. It might seem hard to believe that there is a world outside this veritable Garden of Eden as you take in its splendour of nature’s bounty. A protected area on the western side of Taytay. Further west is Mount Capoas, the highest peak in Northern Palawan.
Reason 21: Abalone Island
Located in Taytay, Palawan, this lush island is uninhabited yet its reefs are a source of abalone, an expensive delicacy in Asian cuisine. It is nature’s success story as its southern reefs that sustained damage from the El Nino phenomeno are now restored. Catch a glimpse of its white sand bar which only appears during low tide.
Reason 22: Dinot Rocks
Enjoy snorkelling or diving amid its wide, colourful coral formations with many species of colourful tropical fish and crustaceans. This gem of an island is also a feeding ground of sea turtles that feed on the abundant seaweed growing around it. It lies in the middle of Taytay Bay.
Reason 23: Pabellone Islands
Composed of the Elephant and Castle Islands, Pabellone is guarded because of the prized swiflet nests. You can explore Pabellone's caves, the most fascinating of which has a crystal clear pool lit by a natural skylight. With such an uncommon sight, swimming in it is definitely a must. Taytay is the gateway to the islands of Pabellone.
Reason 24: Tubbataha Reefs
Diving in this UNESCO World Heritage Site can be described as no less than stunning. Enter a world of whales, hammerheads, mantas, whalesharks, sea turtles and fish of diverse species, and be astounded by spectacular coral reefs. Tubbataha is accessible via 12 hour live-aboard boat trip from Puerto Princesa.
Reason 25: Puerto Princesa City
The Spanish colonizers saw it as a royal refuge of sea vessels. Historical accounts attribute the name as a tribute to Princess Eulalia, daughter of Queen Isabella II of Spain. The capital city serves as venue for conferences, unique festivals and sporting events. It is the main gateway to the province. Its successful ecotourism programs and environment conservation projects have earned for the city the Hall of Fame Award as the cleanest and greenest component city.
Reason 26: Underground River
A unique destination with the 8-kilometer underground river that flows through the cavern. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site’s pitch black interior adorned with stalactites and rock formations using a small paddled outrigger boat equipped with a searchlight. Travel by land 81 kilometers from the city, followed by a 15 minute pump boat ride to Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.
Reason 27: Honda Bay Islands
Go island hopping and revel in dozens of white sand beaches, spectacular dive spots and snorkelling sites. Points of interest include Luli Island, a small sandbar that appears and disappears depending on the tide; Snake Pandan, Arreceffi, Cowrie, Starfish and Senorita Islands. Located at Palawan’s east coast, a few minutes drive from the capital.
Reason 28: Vietnamese Village
This village is home to a number of Vietnamese immigrants who first came to Palawan in 1979. They have since formed a community of their own ad have integrated themselves and their way of life into the cultural fabric of the city. Their delectable cuisine is a welcome treat for visitors looking for a taste of Vietnam. A 15 kilometer ride from Puerto Princesa city proper.
Reason 29: Crocodile Farm
Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (PWRCC), commonly known as the Crocodile Farm, protects endangered crocodile species, including the endemic Philippine crocodile. It sits on 10 hectares of land that also houses a small zoo featuring animals indigenous to Palawan. Located in Barangay Irawan, a 40 minute drive south of the city.
Reason 30: Ulugan Bay
This haven offers eco-tourism at its finest. Go on guided boat tours along mangroves of Bahile River, sail in a Paraw and try snorkelling, diving, spelunking or trekking. You can also climb to the view deck on the summit of Ugong Rock or simply go picnic on a beach. Travel time from the city takes approximately 2 hours.
Reason 31: Arena Island
This island is a safe haven for ocean going sea turtles that crawl up its shores year round. Located in Narra on the east coast of Palawan, south of Puerto Princesa.
Reason 32: Rasa Island
Located 30 minutes offshore from Narra, east coast of Palawan, the island has the highest concentration of the Philippine cockatoo can be found here. This sanctuary offers you the chance to see these endangered animals in their natural habitat and inspire you to help save these magnificent birds. With the 87 species that call this island home, bird watching will enthral and yield the ornithologist in you.
Reason 33: Ursula Island
Situated off Bataraza, Southern Palawan, this oval shaped island is a diving paradise and sanctuary to more than a hundred thousand birds. A huge coral ecosystem larger than Ursula’s 17 hectares lies at the south of the island and is a diverse playground for those who have a passion for diving. You can also watch the birds as they congregate and fly just before sunset.
Reason 34: Tumarbong Falls
Tumarbong Falls is a must see if you crave for something more than just sand and sea. It’s about 30 minutes from the town proper through a jungle which is home to a variety of birds. Trek through the jungle trail to reach the river, then follow the sound of the rushing water until you reach your goal. Located in Tumarbong, Brgy. Tabon, Quezon municipality.
Reason 35: Double Island
An island that splits in two on a daily basis, it appears as a single land mass during low tide and divides in two when the tide rushes back. Double Island is an ideal place to spend a lazy afternoon. Favorite activities of travellers here are swimming and picnics. The island is located about 15 kilometers north of the poblacion in Quezon municipality.
Reason 36: Tabon Caves
Transport yourself to a place that can truly be called a land before time. This ancient wonder connects you to the earliest Filipinos reaching as far back as 22,000 years and shows you life as it was back then. Located in Lipuun Point, on the east coast of Quezon.
Once the site of the biggest leper colonies in the world, its victory over the dreaded disease has enabled it to earn a place among the jewels of Boracay crown. It is now a feast for the eyes with its rolling mountains and hills that serve as a gorgeous backdrop for icons such as the Culion Fort and the Culion Cathdreal. It’s also blessed with mangroves and a rich marine environment for dugongs. This island is part of the Calamian Croup in Northern Palawan.
Reason 14: Calauit Island
As a breeding center, this island sanctuary is home to African animals and those endemic to the Philippines. Observe this habitat and the varieties of flora and fauna. After the wildlife tour, freshen up in the surrounding clear waters and reefs teeming with biodiversity. The said island is located in Busuanga.
Reason 15: Busuanga Island
White beaches, emerald seas and sun-drenched islands greet visitors. Busuanga is blessed with good weather ideal for nature lovers. Diving and hiking are popular activities because of the many nature trails, attractions and excellent dive sites. Main travel hub of the Calamianes Group is via the Busuanga Airport or the Coron Port.
Reason 16: Kayangan Lake
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| Blue Lagoon photo by J. Gueco |
Reason 17: Coron Island
Located in the Calamianes group of islands in northern Palawan, this sparsely inhabited island is among the most scenic in the country. The sky sets a perfect backdrop as it showcases the towering limestone cliffs and pristine lagoons. This destination is an example of beauty found only in nature.
Reason 18: Manguao Lake
Covering 660 hectares, this freshwater lake hosts endemic and rare species of fish, thus becoming a focal point for environmental protection and management. Paddling, trekking, swimming, fishing and camping are the activities of choice around the lake perimeter. Lake Manguao in Taytay is the biggest lake in the province.
Reason 19: Lake Danao
Covering 661 hectares, Lake Danao is believed to be the remains of an extinct volcano that collapsed millions of years ago. This freshwater lake, located in Taytay, northern Palawan, is a 2 hour hike from the town proper.
Reason 20: Malampaya Sound
This large bay harbours Irrawady dolphins, dugongs and sea turtles. It is also surrounded by lush forests and is home to many different animal species such as bearcats, civets, mynas and eagles. It might seem hard to believe that there is a world outside this veritable Garden of Eden as you take in its splendour of nature’s bounty. A protected area on the western side of Taytay. Further west is Mount Capoas, the highest peak in Northern Palawan.
Reason 21: Abalone Island
Located in Taytay, Palawan, this lush island is uninhabited yet its reefs are a source of abalone, an expensive delicacy in Asian cuisine. It is nature’s success story as its southern reefs that sustained damage from the El Nino phenomeno are now restored. Catch a glimpse of its white sand bar which only appears during low tide.
Reason 22: Dinot Rocks
Enjoy snorkelling or diving amid its wide, colourful coral formations with many species of colourful tropical fish and crustaceans. This gem of an island is also a feeding ground of sea turtles that feed on the abundant seaweed growing around it. It lies in the middle of Taytay Bay.
Reason 23: Pabellone Islands
Composed of the Elephant and Castle Islands, Pabellone is guarded because of the prized swiflet nests. You can explore Pabellone's caves, the most fascinating of which has a crystal clear pool lit by a natural skylight. With such an uncommon sight, swimming in it is definitely a must. Taytay is the gateway to the islands of Pabellone.
Reason 24: Tubbataha Reefs
Diving in this UNESCO World Heritage Site can be described as no less than stunning. Enter a world of whales, hammerheads, mantas, whalesharks, sea turtles and fish of diverse species, and be astounded by spectacular coral reefs. Tubbataha is accessible via 12 hour live-aboard boat trip from Puerto Princesa.Reason 25: Puerto Princesa City
The Spanish colonizers saw it as a royal refuge of sea vessels. Historical accounts attribute the name as a tribute to Princess Eulalia, daughter of Queen Isabella II of Spain. The capital city serves as venue for conferences, unique festivals and sporting events. It is the main gateway to the province. Its successful ecotourism programs and environment conservation projects have earned for the city the Hall of Fame Award as the cleanest and greenest component city.
Reason 26: Underground River
A unique destination with the 8-kilometer underground river that flows through the cavern. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site’s pitch black interior adorned with stalactites and rock formations using a small paddled outrigger boat equipped with a searchlight. Travel by land 81 kilometers from the city, followed by a 15 minute pump boat ride to Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.
Reason 27: Honda Bay Islands
Go island hopping and revel in dozens of white sand beaches, spectacular dive spots and snorkelling sites. Points of interest include Luli Island, a small sandbar that appears and disappears depending on the tide; Snake Pandan, Arreceffi, Cowrie, Starfish and Senorita Islands. Located at Palawan’s east coast, a few minutes drive from the capital.
Reason 28: Vietnamese Village
This village is home to a number of Vietnamese immigrants who first came to Palawan in 1979. They have since formed a community of their own ad have integrated themselves and their way of life into the cultural fabric of the city. Their delectable cuisine is a welcome treat for visitors looking for a taste of Vietnam. A 15 kilometer ride from Puerto Princesa city proper.
Reason 29: Crocodile Farm
Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (PWRCC), commonly known as the Crocodile Farm, protects endangered crocodile species, including the endemic Philippine crocodile. It sits on 10 hectares of land that also houses a small zoo featuring animals indigenous to Palawan. Located in Barangay Irawan, a 40 minute drive south of the city.
Reason 30: Ulugan Bay
This haven offers eco-tourism at its finest. Go on guided boat tours along mangroves of Bahile River, sail in a Paraw and try snorkelling, diving, spelunking or trekking. You can also climb to the view deck on the summit of Ugong Rock or simply go picnic on a beach. Travel time from the city takes approximately 2 hours.
Reason 31: Arena Island
This island is a safe haven for ocean going sea turtles that crawl up its shores year round. Located in Narra on the east coast of Palawan, south of Puerto Princesa.
Reason 32: Rasa Island
Located 30 minutes offshore from Narra, east coast of Palawan, the island has the highest concentration of the Philippine cockatoo can be found here. This sanctuary offers you the chance to see these endangered animals in their natural habitat and inspire you to help save these magnificent birds. With the 87 species that call this island home, bird watching will enthral and yield the ornithologist in you.
Reason 33: Ursula Island
Situated off Bataraza, Southern Palawan, this oval shaped island is a diving paradise and sanctuary to more than a hundred thousand birds. A huge coral ecosystem larger than Ursula’s 17 hectares lies at the south of the island and is a diverse playground for those who have a passion for diving. You can also watch the birds as they congregate and fly just before sunset.
Reason 34: Tumarbong Falls
Tumarbong Falls is a must see if you crave for something more than just sand and sea. It’s about 30 minutes from the town proper through a jungle which is home to a variety of birds. Trek through the jungle trail to reach the river, then follow the sound of the rushing water until you reach your goal. Located in Tumarbong, Brgy. Tabon, Quezon municipality.
Reason 35: Double Island
An island that splits in two on a daily basis, it appears as a single land mass during low tide and divides in two when the tide rushes back. Double Island is an ideal place to spend a lazy afternoon. Favorite activities of travellers here are swimming and picnics. The island is located about 15 kilometers north of the poblacion in Quezon municipality.
Reason 36: Tabon Caves
Transport yourself to a place that can truly be called a land before time. This ancient wonder connects you to the earliest Filipinos reaching as far back as 22,000 years and shows you life as it was back then. Located in Lipuun Point, on the east coast of Quezon.
We only go to Palawan for one reason, and that is number 9 of this list -- Tips Advices on Palawan Philippines Visit :D
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