Palawan Beaches Philippines: The Best of the Best

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Read our ultimate Palawan Beach Philippines guide for island hopping adventures, long days in the sun and awesome snorkeling adventures.

Palawan Beach Philippines with tall palms

If Palawan Beach, Philippines, is not on your bucket list yet, it’s about to be. 

Palawan has three main areas; Puerto Princesa, El Nido and Coron, where you can expect unspoiled beaches and picturesque scenery. 

Imagine endless island hopping adventures while admiring the towering karst limestone pinnacles, swimming in crystal clear water and snorkeling with lots of colorful marine life. 

If this sounds up your alley, have a read below for the 10 best beaches in Palawan. 

The Best Beaches in Palawan

Sabang Beach – Puerto Princesa

Don’t miss one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.

Sabang Beach Palawan wtih boats

Your eyes will sparkle when you visit this long, pristine, white sandy beach along Palawan’s dramatic, undeveloped coast. With deep blue waters and towering mountains, it’s a tropical dream come true.  

While it’s not as busy as some Palawan Philippines beaches, it is home to one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, the Puerto Princesa Underground River. 

Be sure to join a tour to visit the 8.2-kilometer (5.1 miles) long cave. Inside you will find incredible rock formations and lots of bats (scary!), but the best part? The insanely turquoise waters inside the cave.

Of course, you can’t miss the Underground River, which is the biggest attraction of Sabang Beach, but if you have time afterward, head out for a snorkel or enjoy a picnic on the beach with friends or family.

To get from Puerto Princesa town to Sabang, jump in a tourist minivan which takes 2 hours. 

Nagtabon Beach – Puerto Princesa

The local secret tropical paradise.

Nagtabon Beach Palawan Philippines

Looking for a tropical beach near Puerto Princesa City? 

The local secret is Nagtabon Beach in Palawan, Philippines which features eight kilometers (5 miles) of pristine coastline.  

Expect to find a sublime pale sandy beach, crystal clear blue water and large palm trees to protect you from the sun.

Expert tip: This isn’t the place to come if you want water activities like snorkeling. It’s all about relaxing in a beautiful paradise. Although, you can find a bunch of restaurants to retreat to after a day of listening to the sound of crashing waves.  

Seven Commandos Beach – El Nido

A beautiful paradise only accessible by boat.

aerial Seven Commandos Beach Palawan Philippines

If you haven’t come across El Nido, then you must be at the beginning of your research. Which is okay! 

You will quickly learn that El Nido has some of the best adventures and beaches in Palawan, Philippines, and possibly the world.

One of those is Seven Commandos Beach.

To get to this pristine white sandy beach with clear turquoise water, you must visit by private tour or as part of an island hopping tour (ask around for “Tour A”) from El Nido Town. You can only access it by boat. But due to its popularity, there is a high chance other boats will be anchored there simultaneously. 

Although it is never too crowded.

Once you arrive, you will notice how secluded this beach is, with coconut palms and towering limestone cliffs surrounding the beachfront.

Make sure you choose a tour that includes snorkeling gear (or bring your own), as you won’t want to miss out on the reefs just offshore, where you can find lots of tropical marine life.

Expert tip: Stalls and bars usually sell fresh coconuts and beers on the beach.

Las Cabanas Beach – El Nido

Nothing beats a stunning beach that’s conveniently located.

white boat in a Palawan Beach in Philippines

If you are after convenience, Las Cabanas Beach is an easy Palawan beach in the Philippines to visit.

Located only three kilometers (1.8 miles) south of El Nido town, spending a couple of hours at this beach is effortless. Think soft, golden sand with beautiful and calm aquamarine water. 

Did we mention there are coconut palms in the background along with mountains rising out of the forest? The scenery is impressive, to say the least.

Whether you choose to snorkel, lie in the sun, read a book or visit one of the bars and restaurants, Las Cabanas Beach will appeal to people of all ages. 

Make sure you hang around until sunset, as it offers one of the most beautiful sunset views.

Expert tip: If you’re looking for something adventurous in the area, why not check out the zipline? Not only will you have incredible views, but you will also have the thrill of a lifetime along the 750-meter (0.5 mile) zip wire.

Marimegmeg Beach – El Nido 

Perfect for those who enjoy activities on a beach.

hammocks on a Palawan Philippine beach

Right next to Las Cabanas Beach is Marimegmeg Beach. It’s easy to confuse them, but the plus side is you can enjoy both beaches in one day.

While you can’t compare it to some of the tropical paradise islands off El Nido, this beach offers convenience and the perfect place to hang out.

With a beautiful stretch of golden sand and clear water, bring a book to read and some money to enjoy several bars and restaurants in the area.

If you can’t sit still on the beach, you can go fishing, snorkeling, surfing and cliff jumping. And, if you are brave enough, there is always the zipline that gives you incredible views over El Nido.

Nacpan Beach – El Nido 

Come for a swim and to enjoy the sunset. 

aerial view of Nacpan Beach Palawan

Located 45 minutes by motorbike from El Nido town is the beautiful Nacpan Beach.

Come here for a relaxing day away from the hustle and bustle. 

The quiet, serene beach stretches for four kilometers (2.5 miles) with fine white sand and sparkling turquoise water. It’s an iconic Philippines Palawan beach with swaying palm trees lining the foreshore.

While there, you can also hop to the neighboring Calitang Beach, which means you can experience two paradises in one day.

Hang around until sunset as the beach faces west, and the colors are incredible. There are hammocks to relax in, or bring some beers for a sunset picnic.

Expert tip: If it’s been raining, there will be muddy areas on the road, so be careful when taking a motorbike or look for an alternative transport method.

Pinagbuyutan Island – El Nido

Don’t miss this postcard-worthy beach. 

Pinagbuyutan Island Palawan Philippines

There is no way you will want to miss this spot. Even though it is a small island, it’s so picturesque that it is definitely postcard-worthy.

Dramatic rock formations overlook swaying palm trees. In front is a gorgeous beachfront that is dreamy for relaxing on the white-speckled sand.

To get there, find the Tour B Island Hopping adventure from El Nido. Make sure the boat has snorkeling gear, and get all your underwater photos of the marine world. 

Don’t forget to save time to swim in the crystal clear water, which has some incredible coral reefs to admire.

Duli Beach – El Nido 

A surfer’s paradise during the rainy season

Duli Beach Palawan Philippines

Are you looking for a place to surf on the island of Palawan, Philippines? 

Then head from El Nido town to Duli beach, which takes about one hour in a minivan. 

This beach is remote, but that is what makes it so stunning. You will find palm trees whistling in the breeze and crystal-clear waters among a deserted stretch of white sand.  

There are decent waves for five months of the year during the rainy season, which is why it’s known as a surfer’s paradise. The conditions are suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced.

Expert tip: There is only one resort on the beach, Duli Beach Resort, where you can rent boards for the day.

Long Beach – San Vicente

Come to check out the longest beach in the Philippines.

Long Beach aerial view in Palawan

Ever wondered what the longest golden sandy beach is in the Philippines? 

Well, as the name suggests, Long Beach, located in San Vincente, spans an epic 14.9 kilometers (nine miles). 

The area of San Vincente is located between El Nido and Puerto Princesa in Palawan.

Not only that, it is a stunning and pristine beach. There are colorful, local fishing boats bobbing in the ocean, tall coconut and palm trees fringing the edge of the sand and sparkling aquamarine water, which is so inviting.

Given the length of the beach, you don’t have to worry about getting there early to find a space to relax. It’s likely you won’t see many other people around.

Soak in the relaxing atmosphere of the area by listening to the sound of waves colliding with the shore and local children playing on the streets.  

Expert tip: This is the place to see what other popular beaches in Palawan looked like before tourists descended on them.

Banul Beach – Coron 

Fantastic for snorkeling and for a lunch break.

Banul Beach - Coron, Philippines

Of the Philippines beaches in Palawan, this one is tiny, but don’t let that deter you. With crystal clear water and dramatic black limestone cliffs, it is regarded as a jewel in the area.

To get to Banul Beach, you will need to join one of the boat tours from Coron town.  

Come to enjoy a picnic lunch and snorkel with the brightly colored fish that swim close to the shore. If you head to the far right end of the beach, you will find a shipwreck covered in coral.

Expert tip: The beach has no facilities, but the tour you join will provide lunch for the day. There are also a couple of huts that can be rented out.

Weather in Palawan 

clear waters in Palawan Beaches Philippines

The good news about Palawan’s beaches in the Philippines is that the weather is warm year-round. Although you will want to be aware of the dry and rainy seasons.

The dry season starts at the end of October and lasts until May—expect warm temperatures with a high of 33°Celsius (91°Fahrenheit) and a low of 24°Celsius (75°Fahrenheit).

The positive of planning a trip during this period is that all activities, including the island hopping tours, operate. So, if you don’t enjoy getting stuck in the rain, you should strongly consider traveling during the dry season.

Be aware that the dry season falls over the Christmas and New Year period when flights and accommodation prices peak.

If you can only visit during the rainy season, don’t stress. The temperatures remain the same, accommodation will be less expensive, and fewer people will travel.

Island hopping tours still run, but the conditions may be a bit rougher, so you may not be able to visit all islands.

Packing List Essentials for Palawan 

Palawan drone view

Think island hopping tours, days in the sun, and long walks on the beach. Packing for all the Palawan beach activities you will do on your trip couldn’t be easier.

Of course, you will need lightweight clothing for the day and night as it’s hot year-round. Also, don’t forget a few swimsuits, flip-flops, a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses.

Beyond these key items, some other things you may wish to consider are:

  • Snorkeling gear: Most island hopping tours will include fins and a snorkel, but if you are more comfortable with your own gear, be sure to bring it.
  • Quick dry towel: These are lightweight and easy to bring on your beach adventures.
  • Dry bag: You’ll no doubt be bringing a few essential items on your island hopping tours, so having a bag that keeps your valuables dry is critical.
  • GoPro or underwater camera: The water is impeccably clear in the Philippines. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a few snaps of marine life.
  • Insect repellent/bug spray: At night, mosquitos can be pests, so don’t let the itchy bites ruin your holiday.

Map of Palawan Beaches in the Philippines

So, where is Palawan Island in the Philippines? 

The archipelago is in the southwest of the country, set away from the main cluster of islands. This map will orient you as you plan your travel throughout the Philippines.

How to Get to Palawan 

white beach in Palawan Philippines

When arriving from overseas, you will most likely fly into the Manila Airport in the capital. 

From there, you can easily connect to CoronEl Nido or Puerto Princesa

The quickest and most convenient way to travel from Manila to Coron is by taking a domestic flight of one hour and 20 minutes. Otherwise, the cheapest but most protracted method is the ferry which takes two days and four hours. 

From Manila to El Nido, it takes an easy one-hour and 20-minute flight. 

If you are coming from Coron to El Nido, it’s best to take the 40-minute flight. Or a ferry which takes five hours. 

If you are continuing your journey further south from El Nido to Puerto Princesa, take a minivan or bus, which takes just over five hours. 

The Wrap-up

landscape view of Palawan

If this post hasn’t provided enough reasons to head to Palawan, maybe you aren’t a fan of flawless beaches! But seriously, this region of the Philippines never disappoints. Its breathtaking landscape and mind-blowing beaches are like nothing else in the world. 

If you want to learn more about Coron, El Nido and Puerto Princesa, read our island guide for more details.

You’ll just have to go and check it out for yourself. But book a flexible plane ticket because you might want to stay longer than planned.

FAQ

What is the closest airport to Palawan?  

Puerto Princesa Airport is the main airport in Palawan, but there are also a few smaller airports in Coron and El Nido. 

What is the closest town to Palawan?

The city of Puerto Princesa is the principal city in Palawan, but there are many towns throughout, including Coron and El Nido. 

Is Palawan safe for tourists? 

Palawan is one of the safest areas in the Philippines for tourists. But, of course, you always need to be cautious of pickpocketing and drink spiking just as you would anywhere you travel these days.

Can you swim in Palawan?  

The beaches are incredible in Palawan, so you’ll surely be swimming on a daily basis. 

Posted March 13, 2023
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Kate and Olly of KO Travellers
Kate Torpy and Oliver Neville of KO Travellers are travel bloggers and content creators from Australia. They caught the travel bug from a young age and have not looked back since. The things they love about travelling the most are meeting new people, experiencing diverse cultures and exploring lesser-known corners of the world. Whether they are on assignment or travelling for pleasure, they document their travels on Instagram and provide detailed accounts on their Blog. From picturesque landscapes to island paradises, they cover it all - even the underwater marine world.
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