How Many Days for a Palawan Island Vacation? Guide to Plan the Best Itinerary

Palawan Island is widely regarded as the ultimate tropical paradise in the Philippines. Located in the westernmost region of the country, this island province is home to pristine white sand beaches surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear lagoons, and the most incredible diving spots that are best experienced with guided tours in Palawan.

It is consistently ranked among the world's top island destinations, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking an unforgettable tropical escape when in the Philippines.

Palawan Island’s top attractions are mostly located in its capital city of Puerto Princesa, the towns of El Nido, Coron, and lesser-known gems like Port Barton in San Vicente town and Balabac group of islands.

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• Explore the best selection of expertly planned Palawan Island tour packages

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Each destination has its unique charm. Puerto Princesa City, the provincial capital, serves as the main gateway and is home to the UNESCO-listed Underground River, pristine beaches, and a vibrant food scene.

El Nido, a town famed for its dramatic limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons, offers some of the best island-hopping experiences in the country.

Coron, a town known for its crystal-clear lakes and historic World War II shipwreck diving sites, is a paradise for adventure seekers and divers.

For off-the-beaten-path travelers, Port Barton provides a laid-back island atmosphere in the town of San Vicente, while the group of islands in Balabac, located in the southernmost part of Palawan, boasts pink sand beaches and rich marine biodiversity.

Getting around Palawan Island requires careful planning due to its large size. Flights from the cities of Manila, Cebu, and Clark connect travelers to Palawan Island, while ferry services link El Nido and Coron town for those exploring multiple locations. Travel between towns in the mainland of Palawan is usually done by van or boat, making it essential to plan your itinerary efficiently.

With the right itinerary, you can experience the best of Palawan Island, whether you have just a few days or an extended stay.

When is the best time to visit Palawan Island?

Since Palawan Island’s best attractions are primarily outdoor destinations, the ideal time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. These months offer sunny skies, calm seas, and clear waters, perfect for island hopping, snorkeling, and diving.

The hottest months are March and April, making them great for beach lovers, though they also coincide with the Holy Week holidays and the summer break, when local tourists also schedule their beach holidays. 

For fewer crowds and lower prices, consider visiting in the shoulder months of November, early December, or May, when the weather is still pleasant, but popular destinations like the towns of El Nido and Coron are less packed.

While the rainy season (June to October) brings occasional typhoons and rougher seas, some travelers still enjoy Palawan Island during this time for lush landscapes, quieter attractions, and off-peak rates on accommodations and tours.

How to Get to Palawan Island

Palawan Island is a vast destination with multiple travel hubs, and transportation options vary depending on where you're headed.

The island is divided into mainland destinations—including Puerto Princesa City, the towns of El Nido and San Vicente, and Balabac group of islands—and Coron town, which is located on a separate island.

Below is a guide on how to travel between Palawan Island’s top destinations.

Mainland Palawan Island

Mainland Palawan Island is home to Puerto Princesa City, towns of El Nido and San Vicente, and Balabac Islands, all of which are accessible via land and sea travel. These destinations are connected by vans, buses, and boat transfers, making it possible to explore multiple areas in one trip.

The best way to reach mainland Palawan Island is by taking a flight to Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS), which has flights from Manila, Cebu, and other major Philippine cities.

Travelers can also book direct flights to El Nido's Lio Airport (ENI) via AirSWIFT, offering a more convenient but limited flight option.

While travel times between locations can be long, the scenic routes and breathtaking landscapes make the journey worthwhile.

Here are the best ways to travel between mainland Palawan Island’s top destinations:

• Puerto Princesa City to El Nido Town – Travel by van (5-6 hours) or bus (6-8 hours).

• Puerto Princesa City to San Vicente Town (gateway to Port Barton village) – Travel by van (3-4 hours) or bus (4-5 hours).

• Puerto Princesa City to Balabac Islands – Travel by van or bus (4-5 hours), then take a boat (2-4 hours). Booking a Balabac Islands tour package with transfers is highly recommended because of the challenging commute.

• El Nido to San Vicente Town – Travel by van (3-4 hours).

Booking Palawan Island transfers in advance is recommended for a hassle-free experience, especially for long land journeys between these destinations.

Coron Town

The town of Coron is separate from mainland Palawan Island and is located on Busuanga Island, requiring either a flight or ferry ride to reach. It is one of Palawan Island’s most famous destinations, known for crystal-clear lakes, World War II shipwreck diving, and island-hopping adventures.

The easiest way to reach this destination is by taking a flight to Coron's Francisco B. Reyes Airport (USU) in Busuanga Island from Manila, Cebu, or Clark Cities.

Travelers coming from El Nido town can take a ferry to Coron (4-5 hours).

There are no direct ferries from Coron Town to Puerto Princesa City. Travelers must transit via El Nido Town or take a flight from Puerto Princesa City to Manila or Cebu before taking a flight to Coron's Busuanga Airport.

How Many Days is Enough in Palawan Island?

The ideal number of days for a Palawan Island itinerary depends on how many destinations you plan to visit:

• 3 to 4 days – Enough time to explore one destination, allowing time for key attractions like island hopping, nature tours, or beach relaxation. 

• 5 to 7 days – Ideal for two destinations connected on the mainland, such as Puerto Princesa City and El Nido Town, giving you a mix of adventure and downtime.

• 10 days to 2 weeks – Recommended for travelers wanting to visit at least three destinations and fully experience Palawan Island’s diverse landscapes, from its lagoons and beaches.

If you have more time, extending your stay lets you explore off-the-beaten-path locations, enjoy a more relaxed travel pace, and experience Palawan Island’s natural beauty to the fullest.

5 Days in Palawan Island: Beach & Nature Adventure

Best for: Travelers who want a mix of island hopping, nature tours, and beach relaxation in Puerto Princesa City and El Nido Town.

This 5-day, 4-night Palawan Island itinerary is perfect for those who want to explore two of Palawan Island’s top destinations—Puerto Princesa City and El Nido Town—while enjoying a balance of adventure and downtime. You'll visit the world-famous Underground River, go island hopping in El Nido’s stunning lagoons, and relax on pristine beaches.

Day 1: Arrival in Puerto Princesa City

• Flight from Manila City to Puerto Princesa International Airport

• Transfer to your Puerto Princesa City hotel or resort

• Explore the Puerto Princesa City's top attractions at your own pace

Day 2: Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour

• Take a guided tour of the UNESCO-listed Underground River, one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature

• Have lunch by Sabang Beach before taking a van

Day 3: Travel to El Nido Town

• Travel from Puerto Princesa City to El Nido Town (5-6 hours)

• Check in to your El Nido Town hotel and relax for the evening

Day 4: El Nido Island Hopping Tour A (Most Popular)

• Visit Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Secret Lagoon

• Return to El Nido Town for dinner and nightlife

Day 5: Departure from El Nido Town

• Enjoy a morning walk on the beach or shop for souvenirs

• Transfer back to Puerto Princesa for your flight home or take a direct flight from El Nido Airport to Manila City

7 Days in Palawan Island: Stunning Beaches & Island Hopping

Best for: Travelers looking for a week-long getaway to experience El Nido town’s iconic lagoons and San Vicente town’s untouched beaches.

This itinerary based on a 7-day tour package in Palawan Island takes you to El Nido’s breathtaking island-hopping sites before heading to San Vicente, home to the Philippines’ longest white sand beach. You’ll explore hidden lagoons, secluded beaches, and scenic inland attractions while enjoying a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Day 1: Arrival in Manila City + Optional Tour

• Flight to Manila City and check in at your hotel.

• Explore the city at your own pace or choose from these top-rated tours in Manila:

  • Intramuros historical tour – Walk through Spanish-era fortresses and churches.

  • Binondo food tour – Discover the flavors of Manila City’s Chinatown.

Day 2: Flight to El Nido Town 

• Flight from Manila City to El Nido's Lio Airport 

• Check-in at your hotel

• Optional activities in El Nido town:

  • Taraw Cliff Canopy Walk – A guided trek with panoramic views of Bacuit Bay.

  • Las Cabanas Beach Zipline – A scenic zip ride over the ocean.

Day 3: El Nido Island Hopping Tour A (Most Popular)

• Explore the top attractions in El Nido town, including Big Lagoon and Shimizu Island

• Snorkel, kayak, and relax on pristine beaches

• Enjoy lunch on a remote island

Day 4: Transfer to San Vicente Town

• Take a van transfer from El Nido to San Vicente Town (3-4 hours)

• Check-in at a resort in San Vicente

• Relax at a local café with ocean views

Day 5: Enjoy one of the top-rated island hopping tours in San Vicente Town

• Explore secluded beaches and vibrant coral reefs

• Visit the Starfish Sanctuary and Pulang Bato Reef

• Enjoy a picnic lunch on an idyllic island

Day 6: Departure from San Vicente Town + Flight to Manila

• Transfer from San Vicente to El Nido Airport for your flight to Manila City

• Optional shopping and dining in Manila City

Day 7: Departure from Manila City

• Breakfast at your hotel and airport transfer for your flight home

10 Days in Palawan Island: Beautiful Beaches & Iconic Attractions

Best for: Travelers seeking a well-rounded Palawan Island adventure

This itinerary based on a 10-day vacation package in Palawan Island takes you across four breathtaking destinations, from the Underground River in Puerto Princesa City and San Vicente Town’s Long Beach to El Nido Town’s famous island-hopping spots and Coron Town’s clear blue lakes. 

Day 1: Arrival in Manila City + Free Time

• Flight to Manila City and check in at your hotel.

• Optional: Intramuros historical tour or Binondo Chinatown food crawl.

Day 2: Flight to Puerto Princesa City + Free Time

• Flight from Manila City to Puerto Princesa International Airport.

• Check-in at your Puerto Princesa City hotel.

• Explore local restaurants and city attractions.

Day 3: Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour

• Guided tour of the UNESCO-listed Underground River.

• Enjoy a buffet lunch by Sabang Beach.

Day 4: Transfer to San Vicente Town + Free Time

• Take a scenic van transfer to San Vicente (3-4 hours).

• Check-in at the resort.

• Lounge at Long Beach, the Philippines’ longest white sand beach.

Day 5: Transfer to El Nido Town + Free Time

• Travel by van from San Vicente to El Nido Town (3-4 hours).

• Check-in at your El Nido hotel.

• Relax at Las Cabanas Beach or explore the town.

Day 6: El Nido Island Hopping Tour A (Best-Seller)

• Visit Big Lagoon and Shimizu Island.

• Snorkel, kayak, and explore hidden beaches.

Day 7: Flight to Coron Town + Free Time

• Transfer to El Nido Airport for a flight to Coron Town.

• Check in at your hotel.

• Optional: Hike up Mt. Tapayas for stunning sunset views or relax at Maquinit Hot Springs.

Day 8: Coron Island Hopping Tour

• Visit Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, and Barracuda Lake.

• Snorkel at Skeleton Wreck and Siete Pecados Marine Park.

Day 9: Flight to Manila City + Free Time

• Fly from Coron’s Busuanga Airport to Manila City.

• Check-in at your hotel.

Day 10: Departure from Manila City

• Enjoy breakfast before your transfer to the airport.

14 Days in Palawan Island: The Ultimate Beach & Nature Escape

Best for: Travelers who want an in-depth exploration of Palawan Island’s most famous attractions, beaches, and hidden gems.

This travel itinerary based on a 2-week Palawan Island holiday package is designed for those who want to experience Palawan Island in its entirety, from the pristine beaches and lagoons of Coron to El Nido’s breathtaking lagoons and Puerto Princesa City’s world-famous Underground River. 

Day 1: Arrival in Manila City 

• Flight to Manila City and check in at your hotel.

Day 2: Flight to Coron Town

• Flight from Manila City to Coron’s Busuanga Airport.

• Check in at your Coron Town hotel.

• Explore local attractions, restaurants, or relax at the hotel.

Day 3: Coron Island Hopping Tour

• Visit Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, and Barracuda Lake.

• Snorkel and swim in turquoise waters surrounded by limestone cliffs.

Day 4: Free Day in Coron

• Explore local markets, souvenir shops, and restaurants.

• Optional: Go on an afternoon tour of Coron Town's inland attractions. 

Day 5: Coron Tour to Stunning Beaches

• Relax on Malcapuya Island’s powdery white sands.

• Snorkel around Bulog Dos Island’s vibrant coral reefs.

• Enjoy a picnic on Banana Island.

Day 6: Flight to El Nido Town

• Fly from Coron to El Nido.

• Check in at your El Nido hotel.

• Optional: Enjoy the sunset at Las Cabanas Beach or Taraw Cliff Canopy Walk.

Day 7: El Nido Island Hopping Tour C

• Discover Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, and Matinloc Shrine.

• Swim, snorkel, and explore the stunning landscapes.

Day 8: Free Day in El Nido

• Optional: Visit Nacpan Beach or zipline adventure at Las Cabanas Beach.

• Explore El Nido Town's vibrant food and nightlife scene.

Day 9: El Nido Island Hopping Tour B

• Visit Snake Island, Entalula Island, and Cudugnon Cave.

• Snorkel, explore caves, and enjoy island views.

Day 10: Transfer to Puerto Princesa City

• Travel by van from El Nido Town to Puerto Princesa City (5-6 hours).

• Check-in at your Puerto Princesa City hotel.

• Explore the city’s restaurants, night markets, and historical sites.

Day 11: Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour

• Guided tour of the UNESCO-listed Underground River.

• Boat ride through stunning limestone caves and formations.

• Enjoy a buffet lunch by the beach.

Day 12: Free Day in Puerto Princesa City

• Optional: Puerto Princesa City tour or Honda Bay island hopping tour.

• Relax at the hotel or explore at your own pace.

Day 13: Flight to Manila City

• Fly from Puerto Princesa City to Manila.

• Check-in at your Manila hotel.

Day 14: Departure from Manila

• Enjoy breakfast before your airport transfer.

Plan Your Dream Palawan Island Getaway

Palawan Island is a dream destination for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and nature enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a quick getaway or a two-week island-hopping adventure in Palawan Island, there's a perfect itinerary to match your travel style.

From the breathtaking lagoons and beaches of El Nido and Coron Towns and the natural wonders of Puerto Princesa City, this island paradise offers an unforgettable escape.

Plan your Palawan Island vacation today and escape to one of the most beautiful destinations in the world!