7 Best Islands for Island Hopping in Palawan, Philippines

A tropical paradise in the western part of the Philippines, Palawan is often called the Last Frontier because of its exquisite natural beauty and untouched landscapes.

With crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and lush jungles, Palawan offers a plethora of stunning islands to explore.

In this article, we will guide you through some of the best islands for island hopping in Palawan, where you can immerse yourself in the sheer magnificence of this enchanting archipelago and ways to get around this island paradise.

There are direct flights to the capital Puerto Princesa every day via Manila or Cebu and other key cities.

Just make sure that you schedule your trip outside of the rainy season, usually from November to May, so you can enjoy both the sun and the sea.

Puerto Princesa: City in a Forest

Palawan Puerto Princesa is the capital city and the second most popular holiday destination in the province. Puerto Princesa includes great beaches and pristine forested hills, making it an excellent choice for island hopping and exploration.

Located 80 kilometers north, make sure to visit the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, featuring complex cave systems and eight kilometers of underground rivers.

Its mountain-to-sea ecosystem is home to diverse fauna and flora, a limestone karst cliffs and landscape, big lagoon, and some of the largest cave rooms in the world.

One of the most popular routes in Puerto Princesa is Honda Bay, known for its clear waters and coral reefs. Here, you can visit islands like Starfish Island, Luli Island, and Cowrie Island, where unique snorkeling and swimming experiences await you.

You can also visit the Tubbataha Reef National Park, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. With over 350 corals and over 600 fish species, Tubbataha Reef boasts some of the healthiest and most vibrant coral reefs on the planet.

These coral gardens provide crucial habitat for an astonishing array of marine life.

Coron: The Wreck Diving Paradise

Coron is a paradise for divers and history enthusiasts alike. Home to excellent beaches, Coron has preserved landscapes and breathtaking underwater scenery, which includes Coron Island, the eastern half of Busuanga Island, and roughly 50 smaller islands that are all a part of the Calamian Archipelago. 

There are about 12 war wrecks at the bottom of the ocean, resulting from an attack on the Imperial Japanese Navy by US Navy aircraft during World War II.

The buried World War II vessels of a Japanese supply convoy, among other intriguing historical artifacts, have helped Coron become one of the most popular diving locations in the world.

El Nido: The Crown Jewel

El Nido, often regarded as the crown jewel of Palawan, is a must-visit for any island-hopping enthusiast.

This picturesque town is your gateway to a cluster of over 45 islands and islets, each with unique charm. El Nido is famous for its towering limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and stunning coral reefs.

In El Nido, you have plenty of options in your exploration. If you want stillness and serenity, you can visit Entalula and rest on dreamy white sand beaches.

Simizu awaits you with its breathtaking cliff formations, clear blue waters, vibrant corals, and various marine creatures if you feel like going for a nautical adventure.

Linapacan: The Clearest Waters

Linapacan, located between El Nido and Coron, is renowned for having some of the most transparent waters in the Philippines.

Its bright seas are a haven for snorkelers and divers, providing an unrivaled opportunity to witness the vibrant marine life and coral gardens beneath.

Begin your island-hopping adventure in Linapacan with stops at Calibangbangan Island and North Cay Island, where you can explore underwater caves, hidden coves, and stunning beaches.

Linapacan’s untouched beauty is perfect for those seeking a remote and unspoiled island-hopping experience.

Port Barton: A Tranquil Hideaway

For a more laid-back island-hopping experience, Port Barton is the ideal destination. This charming coastal village is surrounded by lush jungles and clear waters, making it a tranquil hideaway for nature lovers.

Port Barton offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling El Nido.

Explore the nearby islands of German Island, Exotic Island, and Paradise Island, where you can indulge in snorkeling, sunbathing, and beachcombing.

Port Barton also offers a unique opportunity to experience authentic Filipino culture and interact with the friendly locals.

Balabac: Off-the-Beaten-Path

If you want a more secluded and off-the-beaten-path experience, head south to the Balabac group of islands.

These islands are known for their beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and unique wildlife. While visited less by tourists, Balabac offers an opportunity to escape the crowds and truly commune with nature. 

You can find Onok Island in Balabac, where you can swim with giant turtles. You can also consider visiting Patawan Island, home to an enchanting lagoon with lush mangroves, if you want to try riding a kayak or small boat in your adventures.

Roxas: The Hidden Charm of Palawan

While Roxas is a lesser-known destination in Palawan, it offers serene beaches and fantastic exploration opportunities.

With powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters, Roxas is a paradise that marine enthusiasts would especially love. The island’s rich marine ecosystem of vibrant coral reefs and other creatures provides a perfect opportunity to witness the wonders of Palawan’s underwater realm.

It is also one of the quieter wonders of Palawan, which is perfect for people who want to draw away from the crowds and still have a rich island-hopping experience.

Puerto Princesa and Palawan in general have a wealth of hidden gems worth exploring, like the Nacpan Beach and Miniloc Island You can visit for a minimum of 5 days to enjoy your stay. But of course nothing beats staying at least 10 days.

Preserving the Island’s Beauty

Remember to be a responsible traveler as you embark on your island-hopping adventure in Palawan. Respecting the fragile ecosystems and preserving these islands’ pristine beauty means more than one can imagine for generations to come. 

With its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant marine life, and warm Filipino hospitality, Palawan is a tropical paradise that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

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