If there is one thing that the Philippines is famous for, that would be its breathtaking beaches and magnificent coastlines. And if there is one province that could highlight such beauty, it is no other than Palawan. If you are longing for the splashing sound of the waves, the azure waters, or just laze in one of the pristine beaches in Philippines with tropical fruit at hand, we got you covered!
Boasting pristine, untouched beaches, Palawan is primarily composed of three main destination islands:
- Coron
- El Nido
- Puerto Princesa
Each island is made up of many beaches and smaller islands that are waiting to be explored. Explore an underwater paradise at one of the Philippines’ award-winning diving locations and swim with spectacular marine life in crystal-clear waters. With its stunning coastline, tropical jungles, mountain ranges and rice terraces, it is a unique place to visit.
For diving enthusiasts, the Philippines’ dive sites have once again gained acclaim at the World Travel Awards, thanks to their rich marine ecosystems. The award-giving body recognised the Philippines as the World's Leading Dive Destination for a second time, beating off fierce competition from sites in the Maldives, Mexico and Australia.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to the Philippines and have the experience of a lifetime as you dive or snorkel with incredible marine species such as whale shark, hawksbill turtle, titan fish and bluespotted angel fish, among many others. Don’t forget to wonder at the reefs at Palawan, which is rich in plant and wildlife diversity and best-known dive spots El Nido and Coron where you can expect to see spotted manta rays, green sea turtles and nocturnal marine creatures including seahorses, shrimp and cat sharks.
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To help you kickstart your Philippines adventure, we have listed down the beautiful beaches that Palawan has to offer.
1. Buena Suerte Beach
Buena Suerte Beach is a charming peach-colored sand beach that is surrounded by giant limestone formations. This also serves as a jump-off point for neighboring islands in the area. Since it is found in El Nido's mainland, then expect that this is always crowded, unlike other neighboring beaches in the area. Here, you could also find several establishments, like hotels and restaurants.
Being in the ocean is one of the most amazing experiences you can have in your life. The life beneath the surface is as beautiful as the life on the surface and maybe even more so. Choosing to scuba dive at night here may get you to see some very rare species such as seahorses and shrimps. This is the perfect place for a thrill-filled day.
2. Sabang Beach
Sabang Beach is located in Puerto Princesa and is an excellent beach for snorkeling. It is also one of the famous beaches on the island. But despite its popularity, it is still a quiet place to relax as it is not as crowded as the other beaches. Serving as the jump-off point to Palawan's famous underground river, its white, sandy beaches will surely enthrall you.
3. Nacpan and Calitang Beaches
Known as the twin beaches of El Nido, these two adjacent beaches are located near the town proper. To get here, one can either ride a motorbike or tricycle or join a tour. Nacpan beach provides a quiet retreat away from the loud and busy city life. Though still not yet developed, it is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in El Nido town proper. It stretches to about four kilometers of white sand and gorgeous turquoise waters.
Just when you think that El Nido is blowing you away with secret beaches and hidden lagoons, in Nacpan Beach, you get two long strips of pristine, white sand. Both beaches are actually two separate beauties that meet with one another by a hill. Just several steps away from Nacpan Beach, Calitang Beach features a small hill where the top part offers the best view of the two beaches.
4. Seven Commandos Beach
According to a myth, seven soldiers got lost at sea due to a shipwreck. Searching for a temporary abode, these soldiers founded the Seven Commandos Beach. During their stay and while repairing their ship, the soldiers carved out "7 commandos" on a rock before leaving. Eventually, the locals came across the engraving and named the beach this way. However, it is only a myth, and there is no evidence to prove it.
Nonetheless, the Seven Commandos Beach is blessed with pristine white sands and gorgeous turquoise waters lined with coconut trees. There is no doubt that this beach gives one an idea of what it is like to spend a picture-perfect holiday by the beach. Known as one of El Nido's best beaches, visitors can go to this place via boat. No wonder it is one of the popular stops in various island hopping tours.
5. Snake Island
Vigan (aka Snake Island) is another must-see beach in El Nido. Unlike what the name implies, the island is not filled with reptiles. Instead, the island's name came from its sandbar's shape, which closely resembles a snake. Note that the island's sandbar can only be seen during low tide. Still, visitors can stroll along the sandbar even though the water is relatively high.
Boasting shallow and crystal clear waters is excellent for those who want to chill by the beach. This is part of El Nido's island hopping tour B and is a popular attraction for local and international tourists. Moreover, this island features a trail trick. Visitors can find a viewing deck at the end of the trail, wherein you can see breathtaking views and limestone formations of other beaches.
6. Marimegmeg Beach
If you are looking for a beach in Palawan that offers the best views of the sunset, then you should head to Marimegmeg Beach. Although this is still part of El Nido town, it is not as crowded as the other beaches. Though it is not blessed with limestone cliffs, it still provides plenty of activities. One can enjoy hiking, fishing, snorkeling, waterfall climbing, camping, biking, fishing, etc.
7. Nagtabon Beach
Nagtabon Beach is one of the most accessible beaches in Puerto Princesa. Featuring crystal clear waters and stunning white sand, it is known to be Palawan's most underrated beaches. This is an excellent place to unwind, enjoy the calmness of the ocean, and watch the waves gently crash on the shore.
8. Talaudyong Beach
Nestled near Nagtabon, Talaudyong Beach offers a beautiful sanctuary for anyone who wants to swim to their hearts' content or bask in the glorious sun. This is also an excellent option for anyone who loves the beach yet hates large crowds. Unlike its more famous counterparts, this is often less frequently visited by both locals and tourists. Nonetheless, you can reach Talaudyong Beach via motorbike.
9. Duli Beach
This beach stretches to over two kilometers of clear blue waters that glow through the white sand ocean floor. One of this beach's unique features is that it has rocky portions on the side, making it an excellent spot to take photos. It is also a great spot to ride the waves if you are a surfer.
10. Banol Beach
Hands down, Coron offers one of the most gorgeous beaches the Philippines has to offer. Explore small, beachy inlets, go island hopping, snorkeling, and explore WWII ship-wreck diving sites. You could also find here large pools of hot, natural springs. During sunset, these natural pools fill up with people and what you get is some sort of laid-back, pool party minus all the chaos.
Another crowd favorite is Banol Beach in Coron. It is only made up of a small white sand strip, yet it is one of the most Instagrammable spots in Palawan. That's because it features dramatic rock formations along the coastline. Visitors can enjoy fun activities, like snorkeling, while they are here. It is also a favorite lunch stop for many island hopping tours in Coron.
Come and Explore Palawan!
This wraps up our article for the most beautiful beaches in Palawan, Philippines. Without a doubt, the beaches listed on this post are meant to be visited and explored. Nonetheless, the island has other beaches worth seeing.
If you want to unwind and get your tan, pick one beach that can make your stay worth it. But if you are the adventurous kind, do not hesitate to be part of a group tour so you can maximize your vacation!