🌴 Palawan, Philippines: Nature’s Untouched Masterpiece

Palawan: The Crown Jewel of the Philippines

A long, slender archipelago in the western Philippines, Palawan is often called the “last ecological frontier.” With its dramatic karst cliffs, turquoise waters, and diverse marine life, this dreamlike province feels like a world untouched by time. It's a sanctuary for travelers seeking raw, tropical beauty far from the chaos of the city.

From underground rivers to sun-bleached beaches and remote jungle villages, Palawan delivers a blend of adventure, relaxation, and ecological wonder that few places on Earth can match.

---

🌟 Top Places to Visit in Palawan

1. El Nido 🌊

El Nido is a world-renowned paradise, where limestone cliffs rise dramatically from emerald lagoons. Kayak through Big Lagoon, snorkel in Shimizu Island, or dive among colorful coral gardens.

Rating: ⭐ 10/10
Best for: Island hoppers, honeymooners, photographers.

2. Puerto Princesa Underground River 🛶

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, this underground river snakes through a limestone cave system beneath a lush jungle. The boat ride into its eerie caverns is unforgettable.

Rating: ⭐ 9.9/10
Best for: Nature lovers, explorers, UNESCO enthusiasts.

3. Coron 🐠

Home to stunning WWII shipwreck dives, crystal-clear lakes like Kayangan and Barracuda, and otherworldly karst islands, Coron is a diver’s and snorkeler’s paradise.

Rating: ⭐ 9.8/10
Best for: Divers, adventure seekers, nature lovers.

4. Port Barton 🌅

A sleepy beach village that remains under the radar, Port Barton is perfect for those craving solitude, hammocks, and lazy sunsets. Go island-hopping, spot sea turtles, or simply unwind.

Rating: ⭐ 9.5/10
Best for: Backpackers, peace seekers, slow travelers.

5. Taytay 🏰

Often overlooked, Taytay was once the capital of Palawan. Visit the Fuerza de Santa Isabel, a centuries-old Spanish fort, and explore unspoiled nearby islands with far fewer tourists.

Rating: ⭐ 9.4/10
Best for: History lovers, off-the-beaten-path adventurers.

---

🍴 What to Eat in Palawan

Palawan’s cuisine is a delicious fusion of Filipino tradition and island flavors:

• Kinilaw – Filipino ceviche made from raw fish marinated in vinegar, citrus, and spices.

• Tamilok – A unique local delicacy: woodworms found in mangroves, typically eaten raw with vinegar (an adventurous must-try).

• Crocodile Sisig – A twist on the famous Filipino dish, made with crocodile meat—tender, spicy, and packed with flavor.

• Lato (Sea Grapes) – A seaweed salad that pops in your mouth, often served with vinegar and tomato.

• Fresh seafood platters – Grilled lobster, crabs, shrimp, and fish pulled straight from the sea.

Best restaurants: Kalui (Puerto Princesa), Trattoria Altrove (El Nido), La Sirenetta (Coron).

---

🏨 Where to Stay in Palawan

• El Nido Resorts – Miniloc Island: Eco-luxury amid paradise.

• Two Seasons Coron Island Resort: Exclusive stay with overwater bungalows.

• Canvas Boutique Hotel (Puerto Princesa): Stylish and central.

• The Nest El Nido: Budget-friendly comfort near the beach.

• Secret Paradise Resort (Port Barton): Ideal for digital detox.

---

🧭 Insider Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit:
  December to May is dry season—ideal for island-hopping and beach weather.

• Transportation:
  Fly into Puerto Princesa or Coron. From there, van transfers, boats, or short flights get you around. Travel is slower but scenic.

• Cash is King:
  ATMs are scarce on smaller islands. Bring enough Philippine pesos before heading to remote areas.

• Sustainable Travel:
  Palawan is an eco-sensitive destination. Respect marine life, avoid single-use plastics, and support community-led tours.

---

🌍 Final Thoughts: A Paradise Worth Protecting

Palawan is more than just beaches—it's a reminder of how stunning and fragile nature can be. Each cove, coral reef, and island community reveals a new side to this wild paradise. Whether you're diving into a sunken warship, paddling a turquoise lagoon, or sharing stories under palm trees, Palawan gives you more than a vacation—it gives you awe.

---