North Palawan Travel Guide

North Palawan is about the touristiest part of this huge island province, which lies in the Sulu and South China seas in the western Philippines. It's one of islands, beaches and jungles and also has plenty of seclusion for those who prefer solitude.

Worth It?: Definitely, if you are into beaches and scuba diving.
What to Do: scuba diving, island hopping.
Best Time to Go: December through March has the best weather in North Palawan.
How Long?: At least three days.
Trivia: North Palawan occupies several island groups and straddles the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea.

One of the most beautiful and isolated parts of North Palawan is the island of El Nido up in the north, a secluded haven of fine beaches. There is also some excellent snorkeling around here, along with many of the other islands. The town of El Nido is charming and has clean streets and many hotels.

Farther south is Port Barton, known for its diving and ideal for a relaxing few days. San Vicente, a quiet fishing town, is nearby and has plenty of beaches to laze on and gawk at. Taytay has plenty of old Spanish buildings. Island hoppers should check out the Bacuit and Calamian archipelagos.

Only small chartered planes from Manila fly tourists to the upscale resorts. Everybody else takes the sea ferry to this picturesque fishing town.

Travel to North Palawan - Getting There

Puerto Princesa Domestic Airport in Central Palawan is the gateway to North Palawan. It lies just outside the capital of the province, Puerto Princesa, and is an hour's flight from Manila's domestic airport. There are also a few flights a week to the Calamian Islands from Manila, as well as to El Nido Airport.

North Palawan Things to Do

North Palawan Attractions

El Nido and the Bacuit archipelago

a favored part of North Palawan, with the best beaches and plenty of isolation.

Side trips from North Palawan

Calamian Islands: even more remote than El Nido, the Calamians are off the northeast coast of the main island and offer some of the world's best wreck diving.

Events

Flowers of May: takes place throughout the Philippines in May, including North Palawan cities, and features much parading.