Top 10 Places to Visit in Palawan

Discover the Top 10 Places to Visit in Palawan on a Budget: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Palawan, an archipelago in the Philippines, is a tropical paradise renowned for its stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and rich biodiversity. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or someone looking to relax on pristine beaches, Palawan has something for everyone. Let’s explore the top 10 places to visit in Palawan that should be on your travel bucket list.

1. El Nido: The Crown Jewel of Palawan

El Nido is a must-see destination, famous for its breathtaking lagoons, towering limestone cliffs, and vibrant marine life. Popular activities include island hopping tours to places like the Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, and Secret Lagoon. Snorkeling and kayaking are also top-notch here, offering close encounters with colorful coral reefs and diverse marine species.

Budget Estimate: $40 – $60 per day

Affordable Hotels:

1. Spin Designer Hostel – Rates start at $15 per night.
2. Our Melting Pot Hostel – Rates start at $20 per night.
3. Sea Cocoon Hotel – Rates start at $35 per night.

Affordable Restaurants:

1. Art Café – Offers a variety of local and international dishes.
2. Gusto Gelato – Known for its affordable and delicious gelato.
3. Big Bad Thai – Serves tasty Thai food at reasonable prices.

2. Coron: A Diver’s Paradise

Coron is renowned for its incredible underwater world, featuring some of the best wreck diving sites from World War II. Don’t miss out on visiting Kayangan Lake and Barracuda Lake, known for their crystal-clear waters and stunning views. Hot springs and pristine beaches add to Coron’s charm.

Budget Estimate: $45 – $70 per day

Affordable Hotels:

1. Seadive Resort – Rates start at $25 per night.
2. Luis Bay Travellers Lodge – Rates start at $20 per night.
3. Dayon Hostel – Rates start at $15 per night.

Affordable Restaurants:

1. KT’s Sinugba Sa Balay – Offers delicious grilled seafood and meats.
2. Buzz Express – Serves a variety of affordable Filipino dishes.
3. Lolo Nonoy’s Food Station – Known for its budget-friendly meals.

3. Puerto Princesa Underground River: A Natural Wonder

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the longest navigable underground rivers in the world. The Puerto Princesa Underground River offers a unique experience with its impressive cave formations and rich ecosystem. Guided boat tours provide an educational and awe-inspiring journey through this natural marvel.

Budget Estimate: $50 – $75 per day

Affordable Hotels:

1. Palawan Village Hotel – Rates start at $20 per night.
2. Althea’s Place Palawan – Rates start at $25 per night.
3. Duchess Pension – Rates start at $15 per night.

Affordable Restaurants:

1. Ka Inato – Serves Filipino cuisine at reasonable prices.
2. Bona’s Chaolong – Known for its Vietnamese-inspired noodle soups.
3. Kinabuch Grill and Bar – Offers a variety of local dishes.

4. Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park: Dive into the Deep Blue

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is a diver’s dream. This marine sanctuary is home to vibrant coral reefs and a myriad of marine life, including sharks, turtles, and various fish species. The park is accessible by liveaboard dive boats, offering an unforgettable diving adventure.

Budget Estimate: $1200 – $1500 for a 5-day liveaboard trip

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is accessible by liveaboard dive boats, typically including accommodations and meals.

5. Port Barton: A Hidden Gem

For those seeking a more laid-back atmosphere, Port Barton is the perfect destination. This quaint village offers tranquil beaches, picturesque island hopping, and fantastic snorkeling spots. Don’t forget to visit the nearby waterfalls for a refreshing dip in nature.

Budget Estimate: $35 – $50 per day

Affordable Hotels:

1. Russell Place – Rates start at $10 per night.
2. El Dorado Sunset Garden Resort – Rates start at $20 per night.
3. Barton Boutique – Rates start at $15 per night.

Affordable Restaurants:

1. Gorgonzola Pizza – Offers affordable pizzas and Italian dishes.
2. Mabuti. Eat and Chill – Serves a variety of budget-friendly meals.
3. Jambalaya Cajun Cafe – Known for its Cajun-inspired cuisine.

6. Balabac: The Southern Paradise

Located at the southern tip of Palawan, Balabac is an archipelago of over 30 islands boasting some of the most pristine beaches and clear turquoise waters in the Philippines. Rich in marine biodiversity, Balabac is ideal for snorkeling, diving, and beachcombing.

Budget Estimate: $50 – $70 per day

Affordable Hotels:

1. Balabac Lodge – Rates start at $20 per night.
2. Punta Sebaring Beach Resort – Rates start at $25 per night.
3. Camiña Balabac Guesthouse – Rates start at $15 per night.

Affordable Restaurants:

1. Balabac Diner – Serves local Filipino dishes.
2. Island Eats Cafe – Offers a variety of affordable meals.
3. Lola Ising’s Eatery – Known for its budget-friendly local cuisine.

7. San Vicente: Home to Long Beach

San Vicente is known for its 14-kilometer Long Beach, one of the longest white-sand beaches in the Philippines. This serene and less crowded destination is perfect for beach lovers looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and stunning sunsets.

Budget Estimate: $40 – $60 per day

Affordable Hotels:

1. Turublien Long Beach Inn – Rates start at $20 per night.
2. Pisces Garden Tourist Inn – Rates start at $25 per night.
3. Prince John Lodging and Restaurant – Rates start at $15 per night.

Affordable Restaurants:

1. Mango Bar and Restaurant – Offers a variety of budget-friendly dishes.
2. Villa Bienvenida – Serves local Filipino cuisine.
3. Jungle Bar – Known for its affordable meals and drinks.

8. Culion: A Historical and Natural Haven

Once a leper colony, Culion has transformed into a beautiful destination rich in history and natural beauty. Explore its historic sites, pristine beaches, and excellent diving spots. Culion offers a unique blend of culture and relaxation.

Budget Estimate: $45 – $65 per day

Affordable Hotels:

1. Hotel Maya – Rates start at $20 per night.
2. Levita’s Place – Rates start at $25 per night.
3. Culion Hostel – Rates start at $15 per night.

Affordable Restaurants:

1. Sea Dive Restaurant – Offers a variety of affordable meals.
2. Luzviminda’s Restaurant – Serves local and international cuisine.
3. Island Bar and Grill – Known for its budget-friendly menu.

9. Nacpan Beach: A Slice of Paradise

Located near El Nido, Nacpan Beach is famous for its long stretch of white sand, clear waters, and serene atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball. The twin beach view from a nearby hill is a must-see.

Budget Estimate: $35 – $50 per day

Affordable Hotels:

1. Jack’s Place – Rates start at $15 per night.
2. Where2Next Nacpan – Rates start at $20 per night.
3. Catian Beach Resort – Rates start at $25 per night.

Affordable Restaurants:

1. Mad Monkey Hostel Restaurant – Offers affordable and tasty meals.
2. Kyoyoy Grill Restaurant – Known for its budget-friendly grilled dishes.
3. Sunmai Nacpan Beach – Serves a variety of affordable dishes.

10. Honda Bay: A Snorkeler’s Delight

Situated near Puerto Princesa, Honda Bay is perfect for island hopping. Explore islets like Starfish Island, Cowrie Island, and Pandan Island, each offering unique snorkeling experiences and beautiful beaches. It’s an ideal spot for a day of fun in the sun.

Budget Estimate: $40 – $60 per day

Affordable Hotels:

1. Ysabelle Mansion – Rates start at $20 per night.
2. Eden Travellers Lodge – Rates start at $15 per night.Discover the top 10 places to visit in Palawan on a budget. Explore El Nido, Coron, and more with our ultimate travel guide. Find affordable hotels and restaurants to make your dream vacation a reality.
3. Villa de Sierra Vista – Rates start at $25 per night.

Affordable Restaurants:

1. Ka Inato – Serves Filipino cuisine at reasonable prices.
2. Badjao Seafront Restaurant – Offers affordable seafood dishes.
3. Ima’s Vegetarian Restaurant – Known for its budget-friendly vegetarian meals.

Palawan is truly a paradise on earth, offering a wide range of activities and destinations for every type of traveler, even those on a budget. From the majestic landscapes of El Nido to the underwater wonders of Coron and Tubbataha, these top 10 places to visit in Palawan promise an unforgettable adventure without breaking the bank. Pack your bags and get ready to explore this stunning archipelago, where every corner reveals a new and exciting experience.