Things to Do in Palawan

Palawan, often called the 'Last Frontier' of the Philippines, is a stunning archipelago province stretching between the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve encompasses over 1,700 islands and islets, featuring pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, underground rivers, and some of the world's most biodiverse marine ecosystems. The province serves as a gateway to world-renowned destinations like El Nido and Coron, while Puerto Princesa acts as the main entry point and administrative center. From the dramatic limestone karsts and hidden lagoons of El Nido to the Japanese shipwrecks and mirror-like lakes of Coron, Palawan offers unparalleled natural beauty and adventure opportunities. The region is home to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and countless diving spots that rank among the world's best. Whether you're seeking luxury beach resorts, budget-friendly island hopping, or off-the-beaten-path exploration, Palawan provides an authentic tropical paradise experience that remains relatively untouched by mass tourism.

Palawan's cuisine reflects its coastal location and diverse cultural influences, featuring abundant fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional Filipino dishes with unique local variations. Puerto Princesa offers the widest dining selection, from street food markets like Lenucia Street to upscale restaurants serving fusion cuisine. El Nido and Coron cater heavily to international tourists with Western, Italian, and Asian options alongside local specialties like kinilaw (ceviche), grilled seafood, and lato seaweed salad. Don't miss trying crocodile sisig in Puerto Princesa, fresh lobster and prawns in coastal areas, and locally grown cashew products. Most restaurants are casual beachfront establishments, with meals ranging from ₱200-800 per person.

The ideal time to visit Palawan is during the dry season from November to May, when rainfall is minimal and seas are generally calm for island hopping and diving activities. December through February offers the most comfortable temperatures (24-28°C) and lowest humidity, making it peak tourist season with higher prices and crowded attractions. March to May brings hotter weather (28-32°C) but excellent diving conditions and fewer crowds. The wet season (June-October) sees frequent rain showers and rough seas that can cancel boat tours, though accommodation rates drop significantly and the landscape becomes lush and green. Typhoons occasionally affect the region during wet season, particularly August-October.