🇵🇭 An Elegant 8-Day Itinerary for the Philippines

Upon arriving at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), you will take a short domestic flight to Lio Airport (ENI) in El Nido. From the airport, a short tricycle or van ride will take you to your hotel. After checking in and dropping off your luggage, spend the afternoon acclimatizing. In the late afternoon, head to Las Cabañas Beach, located a short tricycle ride from El Nido town proper. This beautiful stretch of sand is famous for its stunning sunset views. Find a spot at one of the beachfront bars, order a refreshing coconut or a local beer, and watch as the sun sets behind the iconic Helicopter Island. For a bit of adventure, you can also try the zip-line that connects Las Cabañas Beach to a nearby island. It’s a relaxed and picturesque way to begin your Palawan journey.

• Young Travelers: After sunset, head back to El Nido town and explore the lively nightlife. There are several beach bars with live music and a fun, social atmosphere.
• Seniors: Choose a comfortable beachfront bar at Las Cabañas with easy-to-access seating. Enjoy the sunset in a relaxed setting. Arrange for a tricycle driver to wait for you to ensure an easy return to your hotel.
• Family: The beach at Las Cabañas is great for families to relax and play in the sand before sunset. The calm waters are suitable for a gentle swim.
• With Disability: Accessibility can be challenging. Choose a resort that has good accessibility and can arrange private, accessible transport. While the main beach area is sandy, some beachfront bars at Las Cabañas have wooden decking that is more accessible.

• Luxury Travel: Stay at one of the exclusive private island resorts in the Bacuit Bay, which offer unparalleled luxury, private beaches, and seamless airport transfers.
• Adventure & Nature: Instead of the zip-line, take a leisurely kayak rental at Las Cabañas Beach and paddle along the coast as the sun begins to set, offering a peaceful and unique perspective.

• Luxury: El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island – A private island eco-luxury resort with stunning villas, a marine sanctuary, and impeccable service.
• Mid-Range: Frangipani El Nido – A beautiful boutique hotel on Corong-Corong beach, offering modern rooms with direct sunset views and an infinity pool.
• Budget-Friendly: SPIN Designer Hostel – A clean, stylish, and highly-rated hostel offering both dorms and private rooms, with a great social atmosphere.

Book your domestic flight from Manila to El Nido (Lio Airport – ENI) with AirSWIFT well in advance, as this is the most direct route and seats fill up quickly. Alternatively, you can fly to Puerto Princesa (PPS) and take a 5-6 hour van ride, but this is much less convenient. Upon arrival in El Nido, you will be required to pay a small Eco-Tourism Development Fee (ETDF), which is valid for 10 days. Keep the receipt, as you will need to show it for all your island-hopping tours. It’s best to have Philippine Pesos (PHP) in cash, as many smaller establishments in El Nido do not accept credit cards.

For your travel day and first evening, wear lightweight and comfortable clothing suitable for a tropical climate. A t-shirt, shorts, or a casual sundress are perfect. Have a pair of sandals or flip-flops ready. It’s a good idea to pack your swimwear in an easily accessible part of your luggage in case you want to take a dip at Las Cabañas Beach. A hat and sunglasses are essential for sun protection. The overall vibe in El Nido is very laid-back and casual, so there’s no need for formal attire.

For your first evening, the beachfront bars and restaurants at Las Cabañas Beach offer the perfect setting. You can enjoy grilled seafood, Filipino dishes, and cocktails with your feet in the sand while watching the sunset. The Vanilla Beach complex at the end of Las Cabañas has a variety of modern dining options. Alternatively, after sunset, head back to El Nido town proper. The main beach area is lined with restaurants offering fresh seafood that you can choose yourself and have grilled to perfection. For a taste of modern Filipino cuisine in a relaxed setting, try Tambok’s Restaurant.

The journey begins with an international flight to Manila (MNL). From there, the most convenient way to reach El Nido is by taking a direct domestic flight to Lio Airport (ENI) via AirSWIFT. The flight takes about 90 minutes. Once at Lio Airport, you can hire a motorized tricycle (the local taxi) or a van to get to your hotel in El Nido Town or Corong-Corong, which takes about 20-30 minutes. To get to Las Cabañas Beach from El Nido town, a tricycle ride is the easiest and most common method, taking about 15 minutes.

Prepare for a full day of island hopping on El Nido’s Tour A, the most popular tour for a reason. After meeting at the designated point in town, you’ll board your bangka boat. The tour typically includes several stops. The first highlight is often the Small Lagoon, where you’ll rent a kayak and paddle through a small hole in the limestone wall to enter a stunning, tranquil lagoon surrounded by towering cliffs. Next, you’ll visit the Big Lagoon, a majestic waterway where your boat can slowly cruise through the incredibly clear turquoise waters. Lunch, usually a delicious spread of grilled fish, chicken, rice, and fresh fruit, is typically served on board or at Shimizu Island, which also offers excellent snorkeling. The final stop is often the Secret Lagoon, accessed by crawling through a small opening, revealing a hidden pool of water surrounded by rock walls. You’ll return to El Nido town in the late afternoon, filled with incredible memories.

• Young Travelers: Opt for a private tour with friends to have more control over the schedule, allowing you to spend more time at your favorite spots and perhaps discover less-crowded snorkeling areas.
• Seniors: A private tour can also be beneficial, allowing for a more relaxed pace. The crew can assist with getting in and out of the boat. Kayaking is optional; you can stay on the main boat if you prefer.
• Family: The calm waters of the lagoons are perfect for families. Renting a double kayak is a great way for parents and children to explore together. The experience of discovering “secret” places is a huge thrill for kids.
• With Disability: Standard group tours can be very challenging. It’s best to arrange a private tour and discuss your specific needs with the operator in advance. They may be able to choose spots with easier boat access and assist with transfers, but getting in and out of the boat will require some mobility.

• Luxury Travel: Charter a private speedboat or yacht for the day. This allows you to visit the popular spots before or after the main tour groups arrive, providing a much more exclusive and intimate experience. These charters often come with upgraded meals and drinks.
• Adventure & Nature: Bring your own high-quality snorkel gear to get the best underwater views. Ask your guide to point out the best spots for seeing specific marine life, like turtles or colorful reef fish.

• Luxury: El Nido Resorts Miniloc Island – Located in the heart of Bacuit Bay, this resort is famous for its charming water cottages and is just a short kayak paddle away from the Big and Small Lagoons.
• Mid-Range: Cadlao Resort – Offers beautiful bungalows with a view of the magnificent Cadlao Island, a relaxing atmosphere, and a great restaurant and pool area.
• Budget-Friendly: Outpost Beach Hostel – A popular beachfront hostel in Corong-Corong known for its lively social scene, sunset parties, and great value.

Book your island-hopping tour at least a day in advance from one of the many tour operators in El Nido town. Prices are standardized, but the quality of the boat and crew can vary, so it’s worth reading a few recent reviews. Renting a kayak at the Small Lagoon is an extra but essential cost, so have some small cash ready. To protect the delicate ecosystem, the use of single-use plastic bottles is discouraged on the tours, so bring a reusable water bottle. Also, pack a dry bag to keep your camera, phone, and other valuables safe from water splashes on the boat and during kayaking.

Your attire for the day should be all about sun, sea, and comfort. Wear your swimwear as your base layer. Over it, a light t-shirt or rash guard for sun protection and shorts are perfect. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen are absolutely essential to protect you from the strong tropical sun. For footwear, aqua shoes or waterproof sandals are highly recommended. You will be getting in and out of the boat, sometimes in shallow water with rocky or coral-covered bottoms, and flip-flops can easily come off. These will protect your feet and make exploring much more comfortable.

Lunch is a highlight of the island-hopping tour and is included in the price. Your boat crew will prepare a delicious barbecue feast right on the boat or on a beach. This typically consists of grilled fish, chicken or pork, fresh salads, rice, and tropical fruits like pineapple and watermelon. It’s a simple but incredibly satisfying meal enjoyed in a stunning setting. For dinner, after returning to town, you have a wide array of choices. For a celebratory meal, head to Altrove Trattoria for some of the best wood-fired pizza in the Philippines (be prepared to queue). For a more local flavor, try a restaurant along the main beach for fresh, grilled seafood.

All island-hopping tours start from El Nido town proper. You will typically be asked to meet your tour operator at their office or directly at the main beach in the morning, usually around 8:30-9:00 AM. Your transportation for the entire day is the traditional Filipino outrigger boat, the bangka. The tour price is all-inclusive of the boat, crew, lunch, and life vests. The only common extra costs are the kayak rental at the lagoons and a gratuity for your hard-working crew at the end of the day if you are happy with their service.

Today you’ll embark on another classic El Nido island-hopping adventure: Tour C. This tour is often cited by travelers as their favorite for its stunning beaches and excellent snorkeling. Your day will start similarly to the day before, meeting your crew and boarding your bangka. A key destination is Matinloc Island. Here, you’ll visit the famous Secret Beach. To reach it, you have to swim through a small opening in the rock wall, a thrilling experience that leads to a hidden paradise. Another highlight is Hidden Beach, a beautiful strip of sand concealed by limestone formations, creating a calm and secluded swimming area. The tour also includes a stop at the abandoned Matinloc Shrine (also known as the Shrine of Our Lady of Matinloc), where a short climb rewards you with breathtaking views of Bacuit Bay. Other stops often include Helicopter Island, named for its distinctive shape, and Tapiutan Island for more excellent snorkeling opportunities.

• Young Travelers: Bring a GoPro or waterproof camera to capture the unique experience of swimming into Secret Beach. The snorkeling on Tour C is fantastic, so spend as much time in the water as possible.
• Seniors: Accessing Secret Beach requires swimming and can be challenging depending on the tide and waves. Your boat crew can advise if it’s suitable, but there’s no pressure to go. You can enjoy the views from the boat. Hidden Beach is generally easier to access.
• Family: The sense of adventure on Tour C is fantastic for families with confident swimmers. The “secret” and “hidden” aspects make it feel like a real-life treasure hunt. Life vests are provided for everyone.
• With Disability: Similar to Tour A, standard group tours are not accessible. A private tour is the only option, but accessing the main attractions of Tour C, like Secret Beach, requires swimming and is not feasible for those with significant mobility impairments.

• Luxury Travel: Chartering a private speedboat is highly recommended for Tour C. It allows you to visit the secret spots at your own pace and potentially avoid the group tour rush, making the “secret” beaches feel truly secret.
• Adventure & Nature: Tour C is a snorkeler’s paradise. The coral reefs around Matinloc and Tapiutan Islands are often in better condition than those on the more crowded tours. Keep an eye out for sea turtles and a huge variety of colorful fish.

• Luxury: El Nido Resorts Lagen Island – Set in a lush forest cove, this eco-sanctuary resort offers a tranquil escape with water cottages, a beautiful pool, and access to a rich house reef.
• Mid-Range: Vellago Resort – A stunning and romantic boutique hotel located on the beautiful Seven Commandos Beach (a stop on Tour A), offering a unique and secluded experience.
• Budget-Friendly: Frendz Hostel El Nido – A modern hostel with a fantastic rooftop pool and bar, offering incredible views of the bay and a very social atmosphere.

Tour C involves more open-water travel than Tour A, so the boat ride can be a bit choppier depending on the weather. If you are prone to motion sickness, it might be a good idea to take medication beforehand. Good swimming skills are a definite plus for this tour, especially for accessing Secret Beach. Always listen to your guide’s instructions, as they are experts on the local tides and currents. The entrance fee to Matinloc Shrine is sometimes not included in the standard tour price, so have a small amount of cash on hand just in case.

The dress code for today is identical to the previous day’s tour. Wear your swimwear, a cover-up like a t-shirt and shorts, and bring ample sun protection (hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen). Aqua shoes are even more important today, as you may be walking on rocky seabeds to get to some of the beaches. A rash guard is excellent for both sun protection and to prevent any minor scrapes from coral or rocks while swimming and snorkeling. Remember to pack your dry bag for all your electronics and valuables.

Just like Tour A, a delicious barbecue lunch is included with your Tour C package. The boat crew will grill fresh fish, chicken, and pork, and serve it with rice, salads, and fresh fruit. This meal is typically served on one of the beautiful beaches you visit, such as Star Beach or Hidden Beach, making for an unforgettable picnic in paradise. For dinner back in El Nido, explore the diverse options in town. For something a little different, try Taste El Nido – The Vegan Cafe for delicious and healthy plant-based food. For a lively dinner spot, head to the restaurants and bars in the Corong-Corong area to enjoy another beautiful sunset.

Booking and departure for Tour C are the same as for other El Nido island-hopping tours. You can book through numerous agencies in town or through your hotel. You’ll meet at the main beach in the morning to board your bangka boat. The tour is a full-day activity, and you will be transported to all the different locations by your dedicated boat and crew, returning to the main beach in El Nido in the late afternoon, typically around 4:00-5:00 PM.

Take a break from the ocean and explore the mainland of El Nido. The best way to do this is by hiring a tricycle for the day or renting a motorbike if you are an experienced rider. Your main destination is Nacpan Beach, located about 45 minutes north of El Nido town. This stunning, 4-kilometer stretch of creamy sand is lined with palm trees and is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Climb the small hill at the southern end for a breathtaking view of Nacpan and its twin beach, Calitang. You can rent a sunbed and relax for hours. On your way back towards El Nido, stop for an adventure at Nagkalit-Kalit Falls. Reaching the falls requires a 20-30 minute trek through a lush forest and across several small rivers, so a local guide is recommended. The reward is a beautiful waterfall with a refreshing pool at its base, perfect for a cool-down dip after your hike.

• Young Travelers: Renting a scooter offers the ultimate freedom to explore Nacpan and other nearby beaches like Duli Beach (a popular surfing spot) at your own pace.
• Seniors: Hire a private van for a more comfortable journey to Nacpan Beach. The trek to the waterfall may be challenging due to the uneven terrain and river crossings, so you may prefer to spend the whole day relaxing at Nacpan.
• Family: The vast expanse of Nacpan Beach is a fantastic natural playground for children. The waves are usually gentle, making it great for swimming. The waterfall trek is suitable for adventurous families with older kids.
• With Disability: Accessibility to these inland attractions is very limited. The road to Nacpan can be rough, and the beach itself is sandy terrain. The waterfall trail is not accessible.

• Luxury Travel: Arrange a private van with a driver for the day. At Nacpan Beach, indulge in a gourmet picnic lunch arranged by a high-end resort or spend the day at one of the more upscale beach clubs that offer comfortable cabanas and cocktails.
• Adventure and Nature: For surf enthusiasts, head further north from Nacpan to Duli Beach. Depending on the season, it’s the best spot in El Nido to catch some waves, with board rentals and lessons available for beginners.

• Luxury: Cauayan Island Resort and Spa – A private island resort offering luxurious villas, a stunning spa, and a base for exploring the less-visited northern parts of Bacuit Bay.
• Mid-Range: Nacpan Beach Glamping – For a unique experience, stay directly on Nacpan Beach in a luxurious glamping tent, allowing you to wake up to the sound of the waves.
• Budget-Friendly: Mad Monkey Nacpan Beach – A lively and social hostel located right on Nacpan Beach, famous for its beach parties and fun atmosphere.

The road to Nacpan Beach has improved significantly but can still be rough in patches, especially after rain. If you are renting a scooter, be confident in your riding skills. Hiring a tricycle with a driver is a safer and more relaxing option. For the trek to Nagkalit-Kalit Falls, it’s highly recommended to hire one of the local guides waiting at the entrance. They know the trail well, will help you across the river crossings, and their small fee supports the local community. Wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet for the trek.

Wear your swimwear under a comfortable outfit like shorts and a t-shirt. For footwear, bring flip-flops or sandals for the beach, but also pack a pair of sturdy trainers or trekking sandals for the hike to the waterfall, as you will be walking on uneven ground and through water. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential for the beach. Bring a small backpack to carry a towel, a change of clothes if you wish, insect repellent for the jungle trek, and your reusable water bottle.

Nacpan Beach has a great selection of beachfront restaurants and bars where you can enjoy lunch with your feet in the sand. These establishments offer a range of options, from fresh grilled seafood and Filipino classics to pizzas and cocktails. Sunmai Nacpan Beach is a popular spot with a great vibe and good food. There are no food options at the waterfall itself, so plan to eat before or after your trek. For dinner, head back to El Nido town and try one of the many restaurants you haven’t yet visited. It’s a great opportunity to try more local dishes or enjoy some international comfort food before you leave El Nido.

The main modes of transport for today’s inland adventure are renting a scooter or hiring a tricycle with a driver for the day. You can easily find both options in El Nido town. Agree on a price for the day with the tricycle driver before you set off, which should include the round trip to Nacpan and the stop at the waterfall. A private van is also an option for larger groups or those seeking more comfort. The journey to Nacpan takes about 45 minutes to an hour, and the waterfall is located along the same main road back to town.

Your morning will be dedicated to traveling from El Nido to Coron. The most common way to do this is by taking a fast ferry. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours and offers scenic views of the ocean and remote islands along the way. Be sure to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season. Upon arrival at the Coron port, take a tricycle to your hotel in Coron Town. After checking in, spend the rest of the afternoon getting acquainted with your new surroundings. You can explore the bustling Coron Town Proper and its local market. In the late afternoon, for a fantastic panoramic view and a bit of exercise, climb the 721 steps to the top of Mount Tapyas. The viewpoint, marked by a giant cross, offers a spectacular sunset vista over Coron Bay and the surrounding islands, providing a perfect introduction to the area.

• Young Travelers: After the sunset hike, explore the lively bar scene in Coron Town. There are several spots with live music and a fun backpacker vibe.
• Seniors: The ferry ride is comfortable, but the climb up Mount Tapyas is very strenuous. A great alternative is to visit the Maquinit Hot Springs for a relaxing and therapeutic soak in the late afternoon.
• Family: The ferry ride is an adventure in itself. After settling in, a relaxed walk through town can be interesting for children, followed by an easy dinner. The hot springs are also a great family-friendly activity.
• With Disability: The ferry companies can provide assistance with boarding with advance notice. Coron Town has some paved roads but can be uneven. The Maquinit Hot Springs have some accessible areas. Mount Tapyas is not accessible.

• Luxury Travel: Stay at one of the exclusive private resorts on a nearby island, which can arrange private boat transfers from El Nido or Coron. This bypasses the public ferry for a more seamless and luxurious journey.
• Adventure & Nature: Instead of the ferry, for the ultimate adventure, it’s possible (though expensive) to charter a multi-day private boat expedition from El Nido to Coron, allowing you to explore remote, uninhabited islands along the way.

• Luxury: Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa – A 5-star eco-luxury resort on a private island, offering stunning bungalows, a turtle and giant clam sanctuary, and world-class amenities.
• Mid-Range: Corto del Mar Hotel – A beautifully designed hotel in Coron Town with a Mediterranean feel, a stunning swimming pool, and easy access to restaurants and tour operators.
• Budget-Friendly: Hop Hostel – A modern and social hostel offering clean dorms and private rooms, with a fantastic rooftop bar that offers the best sunset views in town.

Book your El Nido to Coron ferry ticket at least a few days in advance, as they can sell out. You can book online through providers like 12Go Asia or directly at the ferry company offices in El Nido. The sea crossing can sometimes be rough, so if you’re prone to motion sickness, take medication before you depart. Upon arrival in Coron, have your hotel address ready for the tricycle driver. If you plan to climb Mount Tapyas for sunset, start your ascent about an hour before sunset time to give yourself plenty of time. Bring water, as the climb is strenuous, especially in the heat.

For your travel day, wear comfortable, lightweight clothing. The ferry is air-conditioned and can sometimes be quite cold, so it’s a good idea to have a sweater or light jacket with you. Once you arrive in Coron, it will be hot and humid. If you plan to climb Mount Tapyas, wear comfortable trainers or walking shoes, as well as athletic clothing. If you opt for the hot springs instead, have your swimwear and a towel ready. For the evening in Coron Town, the dress code is very casual.

You can buy snacks and drinks on the ferry, but it’s a good idea to bring some of your own. Once in Coron Town, you’ll find a great selection of restaurants. For a casual and delicious dinner, try Lobster King for fresh seafood or Lolo Nonoy’s Food Station for authentic Filipino home-style cooking. The Brewhouse Coron is a popular spot for craft beer and international comfort food. If you’re staying at Hop Hostel, their rooftop bar also serves good food to go with the amazing sunset view, a great alternative if you don’t feel up to the Mount Tapyas climb.

The primary way to travel between El Nido and Coron is by fast ferry. Several companies, like Montenegro Lines and Atienza Ferry, operate this route daily. The journey takes between 4 to 5 hours. You will depart from the main ferry terminal in El Nido and arrive at the port in Coron Town. From the Coron port, motorized tricycles are waiting to take you to your hotel. Within Coron Town, tricycles are the main form of transport for getting around and to nearby attractions like Mount Tapyas and the Maquinit Hot Springs.

Embark on the Coron Ultimate Island Hopping Tour, which conveniently combines the best and most famous spots in the area. After being picked up, your bangka will head to its first stop, often the majestic Kayangan Lake. A short, uphill walk takes you to a stunning viewpoint for the classic Coron photo, before you descend to the lake itself for a refreshing swim in its incredibly clear water. Next, you’ll visit the Twin Lagoon. Here, your boat will anchor in the first lagoon, and you can swim or kayak through a small crevice to enter the hidden second lagoon. The tour also includes snorkeling at the vibrant Siete Pecados Marine Park and at the Skeleton Wreck, a shallow Japanese shipwreck perfect for snorkelers. Lunch, a delicious spread of grilled seafood and meats, is served at a beautiful beach, often CYC Beach or Banul Beach. You’ll return to Coron Town in the late afternoon after a truly unforgettable day.

• Young Travelers: A private tour allows you to try and beat the crowds by visiting the main spots in a reverse order. Free diving down to the Skeleton Wreck is a popular challenge for confident swimmers.
• Seniors: The climb to the Kayangan Lake viewpoint involves around 150 steps. The steps down to the lake itself are separate. You can choose to just do the swim without the viewpoint climb. A private tour will allow a more relaxed pace.
• Family: Kayangan Lake is a fantastic and safe swimming spot for families. The Twin Lagoon adventure is exciting for kids. Life vests are provided and mandatory in many areas, ensuring safety for all.
• With Disability: Accessing these sites is very difficult for those with mobility issues, as it involves climbing in and out of boats and up steep, often slippery, wooden stairs. A private boat tour focusing on just scenic cruising could be an alternative.

• Luxury Travel: Charter a private speedboat or yacht for the ultimate flexibility and comfort. You can visit the iconic spots when they are least crowded and explore other, more secluded locations not on the standard tours.
• Adventure & Nature: Coron is a world-class wreck diving destination. If you are a certified diver, skip the snorkeling and book a dive trip to explore the larger, deeper Japanese shipwrecks from WWII, such as the Irako or Okikawa Maru.

• Luxury: Club Paradise Palawan – An exclusive private island resort north of Busuanga, offering a pristine natural setting, a house reef with sea turtles, and luxurious accommodations.
• Mid-Range: The Funny Lion – A chic and top-rated boutique resort just outside of Coron Town, known for its stylish rooms, rooftop jacuzzis, and exceptional service.
• Budget-Friendly: Dayon Hostel – A clean, comfortable, and friendly hostel in Coron Town, offering both dormitory beds and private rooms at a great price.

Similar to El Nido, it’s best to book your tour a day in advance. The Ultimate Tour is a standardized package offered by all operators. To get the iconic photo of Kayangan Lake’s viewpoint without crowds, you either need to be on the very first boat to arrive or book a private tour that allows you to time your visit strategically. Wear aqua shoes at all times. The steps to Kayangan Lake can be slippery, and the rocks around the lagoons can be sharp. A dry bag is essential for protecting your valuables.

The dress code for Coron island hopping is the same as in El Nido. Wear your swimwear and a comfortable cover-up. A rash guard is highly recommended for sun protection while snorkeling. A hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen are non-negotiable. Sturdy aqua shoes or waterproof sandals are the best footwear choice to protect your feet from sharp rocks and hot sand. Bring a towel and a change of clothes if you wish, all stored safely in your dry bag.

A delicious barbecue lunch is included in your Ultimate Tour package, served picnic-style on a beautiful beach. Your boat crew will prepare a feast of grilled fish, pork or chicken, rice, vegetables, and fresh fruit. For dinner back in Coron Town, you have many excellent options. Try Winnie’s Restaurant for delicious and affordable Filipino and international dishes, especially their crab specialties. For something more upscale, Altrove Coron offers the same fantastic Italian food and pizza as its famous sister restaurant in El Nido. For a relaxed evening, head to one of the many small bars for a cold San Miguel beer.

All island hopping tours depart from the main boat launch area in Coron Town. If you book with a tour operator in town, they will give you a meeting point. Many tours also offer a complimentary tricycle pickup from your hotel within the town proper. Your transport for the day will be a traditional bangka boat, which will take you to all the stops on the itinerary before returning you to town in the late afternoon, usually around 5:00 PM.

On your last day of island hopping, you can choose a tour that suits your interests. For avid snorkelers and history buffs, the Reefs and Wrecks Tour is a great choice. This tour takes you to some of the deeper Japanese shipwrecks, like the Lusong Gunboat, which is shallow enough to be seen while snorkeling, and some of the best coral reefs in the area, such as Pass Island. For those who are seeking the ultimate tropical beach experience, the Island Escapade Tour is a must. This tour takes you to three breathtakingly beautiful islands with pristine white sand beaches and stunningly clear waters: Malcapuya Island, with its long stretch of powder-fine sand; Banana Island, perfect for lunch and relaxing in a hammock; and Bulog Dos Island, famous for its picturesque sandbar that appears at low tide. Both tours are a full day and include a delicious barbecue lunch.

• Young Travelers: The Reefs and Wrecks tour offers a more adventurous snorkeling or free-diving experience. The Island Escapade is perfect for getting those amazing tropical beach photos.
• Seniors: The Island Escapade tour is very relaxing. The boat access to the beaches is generally easy, and you can spend the day resting under the shade of a palm tree.
• Family: The Island Escapade tour is perfect for families. The calm, shallow waters and soft sand of Malcapuya and Banana Islands are ideal for children to play and swim safely.
• With Disability: As with other boat tours, accessibility is a major challenge. The Island Escapade may be more manageable with a private tour and a helpful crew, as the main activity is relaxing on the beach.

• Luxury Travel: Charter a private boat to the stunning Black Island, further afield than the standard tours. Its name belies its beauty, with a white sand beach, a pristine reef, and a mysterious cave with a natural pool inside.
• Adventure and Nature: If you are a certified diver, this is your last chance to experience Coron’s world-class wreck diving. Book a trip with a reputable dive center to explore some of the deeper, more impressive wrecks in Coron Bay.

• Luxury: Paolyn Houseboats Coron Island – For a truly unique and eco-conscious luxury experience, stay on a houseboat floating in a private lagoon near Coron Island.
• Mid-Range: Bacau Bay Resort Coron – A modern resort with a large, beautiful swimming pool, a private pier for island tours, and excellent facilities just outside the main town.
• Budget-Friendly: K-Heights Inn – A clean and modern inn located on a hill in Coron Town, offering great views from its rooftop, especially for sunset.

The Island Escapade tour involves longer boat journeys (over an hour each way) to get to the islands, as they are further away from Coron Town. Be prepared for a lot of time on the boat. It’s completely worth it for the stunning beaches, which are often considered even more beautiful than those in El Nido. Bring a book or some music for the boat ride. For either tour, it’s the last day to make use of your snorkeling gear. Remember to apply sunscreen frequently, as the sun reflecting off the white sand and clear water can be very intense.

Your attire today will be your classic island-hopping uniform: swimwear, a cover-up, and plenty of sun protection. For the Island Escapade tour, flip-flops or sandals are perfectly fine, as you’ll mainly be on soft sand. For the Reefs and Wrecks tour, aqua shoes are a better choice for protection while snorkeling. A long-sleeved rash guard is highly recommended to avoid sunburn after spending many days in the sun. Pack a towel and a dry bag. For your farewell dinner, you might want to wear a slightly nicer casual outfit to celebrate the end of an amazing trip.

As with all the island tours, a delicious barbecue lunch is included and will be served on one of the beautiful islands you visit. For your final farewell dinner in Coron, choose a place with a great atmosphere. Pacifico Coron is a popular choice with a relaxed, surf-bar vibe and great food. For something more intimate, consider Trattoria Altrove Coron for its romantic ambiance and delicious pizza and pasta. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the conclusion of your Palawan adventure and share your favorite memories from the trip.

Similar to the other tours, you will book your chosen tour (Reefs & Wrecks or Island Escapade) in Coron Town. The tours are full-day trips that depart from the main boat dock in the morning and return in the late afternoon. All transportation for the day is provided by the tour’s dedicated bangka boat. Many operators include hotel pickup, or you can easily take a tricycle to the meeting point in the morning.

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel in Coron. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping in Coron Town. The best local product to buy is cashew nuts, for which Coron is famous. You can find them in various forms—toasted, brittle, and more—at the local market and souvenir shops. After checking out of your hotel, take a pre-booked van or shuttle to the Francisco B. Reyes Airport (USU) in Busuanga for your domestic flight back to Manila (MNL), where you can connect with your international flight home. Be sure to arrive at the airport with ample time, filled with wonderful memories of your 8-day journey through paradise.

The Philippines is a burgeoning destination for yoga and wellness. The serene beaches of Palawan, the spiritual energy of Siquijor, and the surf town of Siargao are popular spots for retreats. These often take place in beautiful, nature-focused resorts, combining daily yoga and meditation with healthy, fresh local food, digital detoxing, and activities like paddleboarding and hiking. It’s an ideal environment to reconnect with nature and yourself.

Pack light, breathable clothing suitable for a hot and humid tropical climate. Cotton t-shirts, shorts, and sundresses are perfect. Include swimwear, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF reef-safe sunscreen. A light rain jacket is useful, especially during the rainy season (June-November). Aqua shoes are essential for island hopping to protect your feet. A dry bag is a must-have to keep electronics and valuables safe on boat tours. Also, pack insect repellent, especially for jungle treks and evenings.

While Palawan is more known for nature than shopping, you can find unique local souvenirs. Look for handmade pearl jewelry, particularly South Sea pearls, for which Palawan is famous (buy from reputable shops). Woven handicrafts like bags and mats made from local fibers are beautiful and sustainable. In Coron, roasted cashew nuts are the must-buy local product. In larger cities like Manila, you’ll find huge, modern shopping malls with both international and local brands. Bargaining is common in local markets but not in established stores.

1. What is the best time to visit Palawan? The dry season, from November to May, is the best time to visit for sunny weather and calm seas. The peak season is from December to March.
2. What is the currency? The currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). It’s crucial to carry enough cash, especially in smaller towns like El Nido and Coron, as ATMs can be unreliable and many places don’t accept credit cards.
3. Do I need a visa? Visitors from many countries can enter the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days. Always check the latest requirements for your specific nationality.
4. Is English widely spoken? Yes, English is an official language and is widely spoken throughout the Philippines, making it very easy for travelers to communicate.
5. Is the tap water safe to drink? No, it is not recommended to drink tap water. Always drink bottled or filtered water.
6. What is the power plug type? The Philippines primarily uses Type A plugs (two flat parallel pins), the same as in North America and Japan. The standard voltage is 220V.
7. How do I get around? Domestic flights are the best way to travel between major islands. Within towns and for shorter distances, motorized tricycles are the most common form of transport.
8. What is the tipping culture? Tipping is not mandatory but is greatly appreciated for good service. A tip of around 10% is standard in restaurants. It’s also nice to tip your tour guides and boat crew.
9. Do I need travel insurance? Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended. It should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and activities like snorkeling or diving.
10. What about internet and connectivity? Wi-Fi in El Nido and Coron can be slow and unreliable. It’s a good idea to buy a local SIM card (Globe or Smart) at the airport for more consistent data access.