15 EPIC Things to Do in Palawan in 2025

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Please leave this field empty.


Please leave this field empty.


Please leave this field empty.

I consent to my personal information being processed in accordance with The Broke Backpacker’s Privacy Policy (Required)

Sign Me Up!

Δ

Palawan has the most serene landscapes and incredibly rich biodiversity. It’s the perfect place for nature lovers, adrenalin junkies, ocean enthusiasts, solo travelers, couples, and families alike. It’s one of the best places to visit on a trip to the Philippines, with it suiting all budgets and interests.

Here are some of the most epic things to do in Palawan

1. Explore the Puerto Princesa Underground River

Kicking things off for the best things to do in Palawan is none other than exploring the Puerto Princesa Underground River. I mean, does it get much better than this?

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. I think it’s earned top spot here! It’s a ridiculously surreal journey as you traverse one of the world’s longest navigable underground rivers.

Now, it’s only accessible by boat, and the journey begins by entering the cave, which is surrounded by lush jungle and towering limestone cliffs. The scenes are just out of this world. Inside the cave, you’ll be greeted by massive chambers and chasms in the earth with stalagmites and stalactites all around.

The rock formations are like mythical characters that appear as your headlamp lights up the interior. Words don’t do it justice, to be honest. Just know, it’s an incredibly beautiful place in the Philippines and not one to be missed.

2. Dive the Famous Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park

Looking for a casual once-in-a-lifetime diving experience? Well then, the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is something that, as an underwater enthusiast, is a bucket list item.

Located in yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sulu Sea, it’s considered to be one of the best diving spots in the entire world. Is this an exaggeration? Hell No! There are pristine coral reefs, ridiculous biodiversity, and crystal-clear waters.

But that’s not all. You can expect to encounter some 600 species of fish, 360 species of coral, manta rays, turtles, and even majestic whale sharks. I mean, it really doesn’t get much better than this.

The incredible visibility is like none other as you descend into the depths, complete with dramatic drop-offs and never-ending turquoise waters. This protected marine sanctuary is only accessible by means of a liveaboard boat during the dive season (March to June).

Are you starting to see why Palawan is one of the best islands in the Philippines?

3. Kayak Through Big Lagoon in El Nido

I love kayaking through new locations. Period.

It’s such a majestic way to explore, and it’s great exercise! Big Lagoon in El Nido is a venue that you definitely want to visit, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and crystal blue waters. You access the lagoon using a narrow entrance, upon which you’re greeted by shallow waters and stunning coral reefs.

Without the bussing sound of an outboard engine, it makes for an incredibly peaceful outing. The beauty is that you can also move at your own pace as you take it all in, exploring every nook and cranny. I feel that a kayak tour also really captures the raw beauty of Palawan and epitomises what the location is all about. It should be locked into your El Nido itinerary.

4. Go Swimming at Kayangan Lake in Coron

Kayangan Lake is considered to be the cleanest lake in the entire Philippines, with unparalleled visibility. The lake has a somewhat brackish nature, being made up of 30% salt water and 70% freshwater. What does this mean to you? Well, it creates a more buoyant environment, making swimming a lot more effortless.

It’s important to note that life jackets are mandatory for your safety, so don’t try to be a hero and break the rules. The submerged limestone formations are also both unique and visually stunning, but can pose a danger as they may be sharp.

So it’s advised to always take care when swimming. Other than that, the surrounding greenery and cliffs make for a pretty special experience. You can also snorkel, float, or kayak on the lake if you’d prefer. Either way, it’s an unforgettable aquatic experience! Add this to your Coron itinerary and thank me later 🙂

5. Jump on an Island Hopping Adventure Around El Nido

Now, one of my personal favourite things to do in Palawan is to jump on board an island hopping adventure. It’s honestly the ultimate way to experience the beauty that is Palawan. Each stop gives you another slice of paradise to tuck into. Whether it’s a new white sand beach, a towering limestone formation, or more of those insane waters, each location is a new adventure.

Popular tours will take you to places like Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Beach, and Shimizu Island. All of these offer a unique experience and are all magical in their own regard. You can also get to snorkel amongst vibrant coral reefs, kayak through secluded lagoons, and often enjoy a delicious local seafood lunch too. I mean, you can see why I fell in love with these tours!

6. Explore Siete Pecados on a Snorkelling Tour

Moving across to Coron for now, another fun activity is to go snorkelling at Siete Pecados, a true underwater paradise. Located just south of Busuanga Island, it’s made up of seven islets, each encircled by flourishing coral reefs and crystal-clear waters.

Are you picturing it and mind-surfing your way through the waters? Well, if not, I’ll give you a bit more of an image in your mind. Think sea anemones, a network of coral reefs, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish such as peacock wrasse, butterflyfish, and, of course, the cute clownfish.

The aptly named Barracuda Point is also home to, well, massive shoals of the incredible barracuda, known for their unmatched speed in the water. Imagine witnessing all of this during an underwater adventure? Well, imagine no more! This is what you’re in for at one of the Philippines’ most celebrated marine parks.

Small Pack Problems? 😉

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Get Yours Here Read Our Review

7. Hike to the Top of Mount Tapyas in Coron

Moving away from an ocean-based activity for the moment is an epic hike up Mount Tapyas in Coron. If you’re a big fan of panoramic views and seeing things from above, then it’s one of the best things to do in Palawan. You see across the bay and the town of Coron, as well as the surrounding islands. But this doesn’t come without a bit of effort. There are some 721 concrete steps that you will have to navigate, which usually takes around 30 – 40 minutes.

But don’t panic! There are stops along the way with benches that you can sit on to catch your breath, but it’s also a great time to enjoy the scenery. Once you reach the top, you’ll be greeted by a spacious viewing deck, which is the perfect spot for snapping a few pics for the Gram. It’s free of charge, and you don’t have to pay an entrance fee either. Winning!

8. Kick back and relax at Nacpan Beach in El Nido

Now, you might be feeling the effects after a big night out or simply want to kick back, relax, and read your book. What better place to do this than at the beach? And not just any beach, Nacpan Beach in El Nido. It’s a stunning 4-kilometre-long, cream-colored beach that is a 45-minute commute from the town. But trust me, the commute is worth it!

Upon arriving, you’ll be greeted by calm waters, ideal for swimming and kayaking, as well as a viewpoint hike that offers incredible views. The beach itself is perfect for sunbathing, watching the sunset, playing some beach volleyball, and there are even some awesome beachfront eateries for lunches and dinners.

The best time to visit is between December and May, and thankfully, Nacpan Beach is nowhere near as tourist-heavy as some of the other popular beaches.

9. Visit the Secret Lagoon in El Nido

The secret that everybody knows about! Jokes, but Secret Beach derives its name more from its hidden location. One of the most adventurous things to do in Palawan is to visit Secret Beach, accessible only by means of a kayak or swimming. There’s a small opening in a rock that you must navigate through, which gives me Narnia vibes because once you’re through, you’re greeted by magic!

Inside, you’ll find calm, emerald waters and insanely dramatic rock formations. It truly is like that magical land. The best time to visit is during the low tide when it’s a lot easier and safer to enter, although it’s not impossible to enter during higher tides. Early mornings also offer a more serene experience as there are fewer crowds about too.

Is This the Best Backpack EVER???

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

View on Osprey

10. Explore the Beauty of Port Barton

Port Barton is a typical coastal village that really offers a more tranquil and serene alternative to Palawan’s tourist-heavy destinations. I often find when I travel that after being on the go for a while, kicking back and relaxing can be just what the doctor ordered. To get to Port Barton, you can grab a van or bus, which usually takes about 3 – 4 hours from Puerto Princesa. You’ll be greeted by pristine beaches, warm, clear waters, and a laid-back vibe.

Another highlight is to head out island hopping and visit spots like Twin Reef, Starfish Island, and Inaladelan Island, aka German Island. The order of the day on these tours is snorkelling, swimming, and diving in the lively tropical waters. One terra firma, you can visit both the Pamuayan and Bigaho waterfalls, both accessible by scenic walks through jungle landscapes.

11. Dive the Famous WWII Shipwrecks in Coron

Quick summary. In 1944, a US airstrike sank a Japanese supply fleet in Coron Bay, resulting in more than a dozen wrecks that have become a recreational diver’s dream. The wrecks lie between depths of 10 and 43 meters, and offer plenty of opportunities for both SCUBA diving and snorkelling.

These wrecks create artificial reefs and become thriving underwater ecosystems. Corals and other marine plants, as well as plenty of fish and other marine species, call these wrecks home, making them incredible spots for diving. The best time of year for both calm seas and great visibility is between December and May, when both beginner and advanced divers can enjoy the array of wreckage sites.

12. Go Camping on a Remote Island

Now this is definitely one of the more adventurous things to do in Palawan and not for the faint-hearted. You’re able to escape the crowds and modern distractions, escape, and experience being surrounded by untouched nature. Imagine waking up after sleeping under the stars to the sound of waves crashing on the shores with no one in sight and pristine beaches all to yourself.

Popular spots to do this include islands near Port Barton, El Nido, and Linapacan, all known for their pristine environments. You can expect rich marine life and clear waters too, so don’t forget to pack your snorkelling gear! Most camping tours provide basic tents and offer fun opportunities like fishing for your supper. There’s also little to no cell signal, so it’s great for a digital detox too.

Travel with peace of mind. Travel WITH a security belt.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Hide Yo’ Money!

13. Embark on a Firefly Watching Tour

Embarking on a firefly watching tour is definitely one of the favourite nighttime activities in Palawan, with the top spots being in Coron and Puerto Princesa. In Coron, you can head out on a pretty unique type of tour that combines firefly watching with kayaking through the mangroves. You also might even get the opportunity to see the rare bioluminescent plankton, which is a feast for the eyes!

In Puerto Princesa, you can head out on a peaceful paddleboat that glides through the mangroves. You will get to lay eyes on thousands upon thousands of fireflies that light up the trees. It’s a real spectacle! These tours are an eco-friendly way to view these firefly displays and are fun for the whole family, or even as a romantic couple’s evening.

14. Go Chasing Waterfalls

In contrast to the 1994 song “Waterfalls” by TLC, you should definitely go chasing waterfalls in Palawan! And what better way to explore the lush jungles and cool off in nature? It’s one of my favourite things to do when I travel, and Palawan is no different. In fact, there are some pretty spectacular spots, including Estrella Falls in Narra, Bigaho Falls in Port Barton, the nearby Pamuayan Falls, and the Salakot Falls in Puerto Princesa.

If you’re looking for a quieter escape with clear waters and serene environments, then look no further. These waterfalls all offer a quieter, nature-focused alternative to the beaches, which don’t get me wrong, are incredible in their own regard. The best times to visit are between December and May, when you can expect strong water flow and safe hikes.

15. Visit Twin Lagoon in Coron

The final epic location to explore in Palawan is the Twin Lagoon, a breathtaking natural wonder renowned for its dual-basin formation. The out basin is accessible by boat, and you’re able to kayak and marvel at the stunning limestone cliffs.

The inner lagoon, separated by a thin limestone wall, is reached by swimming through a small crevice during low tide or climbing a ladder at high tide. On a visit, you’re able to swim, snorkel, cliff jump, and kayak, and you take in the beauty all around you. The area is part of Coron Island, a protected and uninhabited area, which aims to preserve its pristine beauty. And I think they’ve achieved this goal!

Getting around Palawan is a relatively straightforward process once you understand all the options that are available to you. Don’t let it intimidate you, but Palawan spans over 1700 islands and covers a large area. But the main destinations like Puerto Princesa, Coron, and El Nido are all super well connected by local transport, air travel, and boat services.

Here are some of the main ways to get around Palawan:

Vans and Buses

When travelling between the major destinations of Palawan, AC vans are a great option. These are scheduled services and take between 5 and 6 hours, and will set you back between $10 and $15. Public buses are also available, and while they are a bit cheaper, they are definitely less comfortable and a lot slower. I’d rather recommend spending those few extra dollars and having the comfort of a better seat and AC.

Tricycles and Jeepneys

Tricycles (motorbikes with sidecars) and jeepneys (colourful, shared minibuses) are the most common forms of transport in El Nido and Puerto Princesa. They’re both inexpensive and readily available. A tricycle can cost between $0.5 and $2, depending on how far you go (and your bargaining skills, of course!). Jeepneys are even cheaper, but they follow a more fixed route, so you have less freedom.

Motorbike

Renting a motorbike is synonymous with a trip to Southeast Asia. If you enjoy a bit of adventure, then renting a motorbike is a great choice. Price depends on the type of bike you opt for and the time of year. You can expect to pay around $8 – $15 for a daily rental.

Boats and Ferries

If you’re keen on a bit of island hopping or visiting stunning sites like the lakes and lagoons of Coron or the Bacuit Archipelago, boat travel is essential. You can expect to pay around $20 – $35 for a group island hopping tour, including lunch and snorkelling gear. A private boat will set you back between $80 and $150 a day, depending on your group size and the route you’re keen on taking.

Domestic Flights

Finally, flying can often be the most time-efficient option, depending on the distance you need to travel. You can effortlessly fly between Manila and Palawan’s main airports (Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Busuanga in Coron) for as little as $40. This is very much dependent on demand, of course. I’d recommend checking Skyscanner for the best prices.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Palawan

I’m probably going to sound like a stuck record here, but always remember to sort out and secure good travel insurance BEFORE you fly. Things can, and do happen, that are out of our control, and they can potentially ruin that dream trip.

Simple issues can turn into big problems, so always get on board with a great travel insurance provider to avoid those unnecessary headaches!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions I get when it comes to the best things to do in Palawan:

The finish line has been crossed, and with that comes to an end my epic guide of the best things to do in Palawan. And what a journey it’s been! I’m so amped for you to explore all these activities that I’ve included here because they’re, quite frankly, awesome.

Keen on drifting the mystical lagoons of El Nido? How about snorkelling around sunken WWII shipwrecks in Coron? Better yet, the underground river in Puerto Princesa? Prepare to be lured in and have your mind blown every step of the way. That’s Palawan for you!

Palawan is honestly one of the most special places in the world, and it truly is one of the last frontiers in the Philippines. My advice – get it while you still can and while it’s still around!

A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links, since we’ve decided to keep the site ad-free. So here it is!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂