Holidays in Palawan
Limestone islands, hidden lagoons and white-sand beaches in the Philippines' wild western island province, home to El Nido and Coron. Here's what Palawan is like, when to go and how long to stay.
Limestone islands, hidden lagoons and white-sand beaches in the Philippines' wild western island province, home to El Nido and Coron. Here's what Palawan is like, when to go and how long to stay.

You must register with eTravel online within 72 hours before you arrive, and show proof of an onward flight. Check GOV.UK before you book.
Temperatures are the average daytime high in °C.
December to April is the best time to go, with dry, sunny weather and calm seas for island hopping. March and April are the hottest months. The wet season runs from about June to October, with heavy downpours and rougher seas that can cancel boat trips, and typhoons are possible. November and May are in between and quieter.
Day trips by outrigger boat round the Bacuit archipelago, with lagoons, hidden beaches and snorkelling stops. Tours are labelled A to D.
Paddle a kayak into still green lagoons ringed by limestone cliffs, on El Nido's most popular tour.
A UNESCO-listed river that runs through a cave under the mountains, seen by paddle boat. Visitor numbers are limited, so book ahead.
An island group to the north with clear lakes, coral reefs and Second World War shipwrecks for snorkelling and diving.
A long, quiet sweep of golden sand with palm trees, about 45 minutes north of El Nido town.
Easy island hopping and snorkelling from Puerto Princesa, good for a first day.
A small, laid-back village between Puerto Princesa and El Nido, with quiet islands and reefs close by.
There are no direct flights. Fly to Manila or another Asian hub and connect to Puerto Princesa, El Nido or Busuanga for Coron.
By van or car, usually about five to six hours, or by a short flight from Manila straight to El Nido's small airport.
Palawan isn't in the areas of the Philippines the FCDO advises against travelling to, but check the latest advice on GOV.UK before you go.
Allow at least a week for El Nido and the Underground River, and ten days to two weeks to add Coron or Port Barton.
Put Palawan on standby with everyone's other ideas. You each spread your points in secret, get one veto, and the draw picks where you go.