Top 28 Palawan Island Tourist Spots
- 1. Puerto Princesa Underground River
- 2. Big Lagoon in El Nido Town
- 3.Kayangan Lake in Coron Town
- 4. Nacpan Beach in El Nido Town
- 5. Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park Diving Spot
- 6. Barracuda Lake in Coron Town
- 7. Small Lagoon in El Nido Town
- 8. Port Barton Beach Village in San Vicente Town
- 9. Onok Island in Balabac Municipality
- 10. Honda Bay Islands in Puerto Princesa City
- 11. Twin Lagoon in Coron Town
- 12. Malcapuya Island in Coron Town
- 13. Shipwreck Diving Spots in Coron Town
- 14. Long Beach in San Vicente Town
- 15. Snake Island in El Nido Town
- 16. Mt. Tapyas in Coron Town
- 17. Secret Lagoon in El Nido Town
- 18. Calauit Safari Park in Busuanga Island
- 19. Shimizu Island in El Nido Town
- 20. Punta Sebaring Beach in Balabac Islands
- 21. Seven Commandos Beach in El Nido Town
- 22. Firefly Watching in Iwahig River of Puerto Princesa City
- 23. Culion Island
- 24. Manguao Lake in Taytay Municipality
- 25. Fort Santa Isabel in Taytay Municipality
- 26. Cuyo Fort
- 27. Mt. Aguado in Cuyo Islands
- 28. Cagayancillo Fort
If you're searching for a destination that offers pristine beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable adventures, look no further than Palawan Island. Known as the Philippines' last ecological frontier, tours in Palawan Island will take you to breathtaking spots boasting towering limestone cliffs, powdery white beaches, and turquoise waters that stretch as far as the eye can see.
It’s also a haven for biodiversity, with dense forests that shelter endemic species like the Palawan pangolin, mouse deer, and pitcher plants. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or simply in need of a tropical escape, Palawan Island is a paradise waiting to be explored.
Palawan isn’t just a single island—it’s an archipelago made up of stunning destinations, each offering unique experiences. The town of El Nido is a favorite among travelers, famous for its dramatic limestone formations and crystal-clear lagoons.
The town of Coron follows closely, drawing divers with its mesmerizing shipwreck sites and vibrant coral reefs. Meanwhile, Puerto Princesa City, the province’s capital, is home to the UNESCO-listed Underground River, a natural wonder you can’t miss.
But there’s more to Palawan Island beyond these three. Hidden gems like the town of San Vicente, with its 14-kilometer Long Beach, and Balabac group of islands, an untouched paradise of powdery white sandbars, offer even more reasons to explore.
If you want to experience multiple destinations without the hassle of planning every detail, it's highly recommended to book pre-arranged tour packages to Palawan Island. Whether you’re after island-hopping, wildlife encounters, or cultural explorations, these packages make it easy to discover the best of Palawan Island.
Here are the top tourist spots in Palawan Island that you shouldn’t miss:
1. Puerto Princesa Underground River
A visit to Puerto Princesa, the capital city of Palawan Island, wouldn’t be complete without exploring its top tourist spots, including the world-famous Puerto Princesa Underground River. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich biodiversity, and eco-adventure experiences, Puerto Princesa City is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, is an 8.2-kilometer subterranean river that flows through a mesmerizing limestone cave system. Adorned with intricate stalactites and stalagmites, this natural marvel offers a one-of-a-kind adventure beneath the surface.
The Puerto Princesa Underground River tour begins with a scenic drive to Sabang Wharf, followed by a boat ride across crystal-clear waters, offering breathtaking views of coastal scenery before reaching the entrance of the underground river. Aboard a paddle boat, you’ll navigate the dimly lit caves, marveling at incredible rock formations that resemble dinosaurs, vegetables, and religious figures.
For a seamless and unforgettable experience, booking Puerto Princesa City vacation packages that include guided tours of the Underground River is highly recommended. Secure your Puerto Princesa City tours in advance to explore this breathtaking destination with ease.
2. Big Lagoon in El Nido Town
Nestled on the northern tip of Palawan Island, the town of El Nido is famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and hidden lagoons, making it one of the top best island-hopping destinations in the Philippines. This breathtaking paradise is home to some of the most stunning seascapes, with Big Lagoon standing out as its most iconic attraction.
As the top attraction in El Nido island-hopping tours, Big Lagoon is an unmissable destination that showcases the breathtaking beauty of Palawan Island.
One of the most photographed locations in El Nido town, this iconic natural wonder is known for its deep blue waters, towering limestone cliffs, and narrow channels that lead into a hidden paradise. The entrance alone is a spectacle, with the shimmering turquoise waters creating a dreamlike atmosphere that leaves visitors in awe.
The best way to experience Big Lagoon is through the El Nido island-hopping Tour A, which offers the unique opportunity to kayak through its tranquil waters and marvel at the imposing limestone formations up close.
3.Kayangan Lake in Coron Town
Located in Coron town, Kayangan Lake is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and is often regarded as the cleanest lake in the Philippines.
Coron town serves as the main hub for travelers exploring the breathtaking limestone cliffs, pristine lakes, and diverse marine life of Palawan Island.
Nestled amidst towering karst formations, Kayangan Lake is a mix of saltwater and freshwater, giving it an otherworldly, mirror-like surface that enhances its serene ambiance. A short trek leads to its iconic viewpoint, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of its turquoise waters framed by jagged rock formations.
Joining Coron island-hopping tours is the easiest way to visit Kayangan Lake alongside other stunning beaches, lagoons, and islets. Swim in its refreshing waters, snorkel to discover hidden underwater rock formations, and take postcard-worthy photos at its famous lookout point.
4. Nacpan Beach in El Nido Town
Consistently ranked among the best beaches in the Philippines, Nacpan Beach is a tropical paradise just 17 kilometers from El Nido town proper. This pristine 4-kilometer stretch of golden sand, framed by swaying coconut trees and turquoise waters, offers a perfect escape for those seeking relaxation in a breathtaking natural setting.
Nacpan Beach maintains a tranquil and laid-back atmosphere, making it ideal for sunbathing, beachcombing, and soaking in the stunning coastal views.
One of Nacpan Beach’s most stunning features is its twin beach formation, where it meets Calitang Beach, creating a picturesque sandbar that offers one of the most scenic viewpoints in El Nido town.
The beach’s gentle waves and crystal-clear waters make it perfect for a refreshing dip, while beachfront restaurants serve fresh seafood and tropical drinks, allowing visitors to indulge in a relaxing beachside experience.
For a hassle-free visit, join a Nacpan Beach tour, which includes round-trip transfers so you can simply lounge on the soft sand, take in the stunning scenery, and unwind by the shore.
For a more immersive experience, book pre-arranged El Nido vacation packages where you can visit the town's breathtaking lagoons, limestone cliffs, and go on island-hopping adventures, ensuring an unforgettable getaway in one of the most beautiful destinations in the Philippines.
5. Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park Diving Spot
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is one of the best diving spots in the Philippines. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this remote marine sanctuary boasts some of the most biodiverse coral reef systems in the world.
It consists of two atolls teeming with marine life, including sea turtles, sharks, manta rays, and over a thousand species of fish. Beyond its underwater wonders, Tubbataha is also a haven for birdwatchers, with rare seabirds nesting on its uninhabited islands.
Accessible only from March to June, Tubbataha Reef is a bucket-list destination for advanced divers seeking challenging drift dives, strong currents, and deep coral walls. This site is not recommended for beginners, as the conditions require proper training and experience.
If you're planning your next diving adventure, be sure to check out the best diving packages in the Philippines for an unforgettable underwater experience.
6. Barracuda Lake in Coron Town
Another highlight of tours in Coron town, Barracuda Lake is renowned for its unique phenomenon where layers of warm and cool water meet, creating an otherworldly swimming and snorkeling experience.
Its crystal-clear waters reveal stunning limestone rock formations, making it a must-visit destination. The lake gets its name from a barracuda skeleton discovered in its depths, adding a touch of mystery to this breathtaking natural wonder.
Barracuda Lake is exclusive to the Super Ultimate Coron island-hopping tour, making it a rare and unforgettable stop for travelers. Whether you're looking to float in its tranquil waters, snorkel to admire its striking rock formations, or simply soak in the serene atmosphere, this lake offers a truly one-of-a-kind adventure.
To make the most of your trip, booking vacation packages in Coron town is the best way to experience Barracuda Lake along with other top attractions. These packages offer seamless airport transfers, guided island hopping and land tours, and curated itineraries, ensuring a hassle-free getaway in one of the most breathtaking destinations in the Philippines.
7. Small Lagoon in El Nido Town
Small Lagoon is a breathtaking cove with crystal-clear waters enclosed by towering limestone cliffs in the town of El Nido. Unlike the Big Lagoon, its entrance is a narrow passage, requiring visitors to kayak or swim through a small opening to access its serene, secluded waters.
The intimate setting makes it a perfect escape for those looking to immerse themselves in El Nido town’s natural beauty.
Small Lagoon is part of El Nido island hopping Tour D, which takes visitors to some of the most tranquil and less-explored spots in the area. You can paddle a kayak through its calm waters, swim beneath limestone formations, or simply relax and soak in the breathtaking scenery.
8. Port Barton Beach Village in San Vicente Town
The town of San Vicente is known for its pristine beaches, unspoiled islands, and the longest white sand beach in the Philippines—Long Beach. Among San Vicente town's attractions, the village of Port Barton stands out as a laid-back coastal paradise, perfect for travelers seeking a more relaxed and crowd-free island experience.
Port Barton boasts a small but pristine beach, where you can unwind on soft golden sand and take a refreshing dip in its clear waters. The beachfront is lined with cozy restaurants and bars, offering a perfect spot to enjoy a meal or a cold drink while admiring the breathtaking ocean views and stunning sunsets.
For those planning a longer stay, the best resorts in Port Barton offer a mix of beachfront accommodations, eco-friendly retreats, and charming cottages, ensuring a comfortable and serene getaway.
If you’re looking to explore beyond the shore, San Vicente town tours take you to nearby islets and vibrant snorkeling spots. These excursions let you swim among colorful coral gardens, relax on secluded white sand beaches, and experience the untouched beauty of Palawan Island’s coastline.
9. Onok Island in Balabac Municipality
Balabac municipality is a secluded paradise in the southernmost part of Palawan Island, known for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and rich marine biodiversity. Comprising over 30 remote islands, Balabac remains one of the Philippines' most untouched destinations, making it perfect for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path island adventure.
Due to its remote location and challenging logistics, the best way to explore this destination is by booking a 4-day Balabac Islands tour package, ensuring a seamless and well-organized trip.
One of the highlights of Balabac is Onok Island (sometimes called Onuk Island), a tropical gem surrounded by shimmering waters and swaying palm trees. This peaceful island features a stunning sandbar, which appears during low tide, allowing visitors to walk along its shallow, crystal-clear shores.
10. Honda Bay Islands in Puerto Princesa City
Just a short boat ride from Puerto Princesa City, Honda Bay is a breathtaking collection of islands that offer the perfect setting for a tropical island-hopping adventure in Palawan. This coastal paradise is known for its white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine life, making it one of the top attractions in Puerto Princesa City.
Popular stops include Luli Island, which disappears during high tide, Cowrie Island, famous for its powdery white sand and water activities, and Starfish Island, where you can snorkel among vibrant coral reefs and spot countless starfish in shallow waters. Each island in Honda Bay has its own unique charm, offering a mix of relaxation and adventure.
The best way to explore this stunning destination is by joining Honda Bay island-hopping tours, which provide convenient boat transfers, expert guides, and seamless itineraries to help you make the most of your trip.
11. Twin Lagoon in Coron Town
A breathtaking natural wonder in Coron town, Twin Lagoon is one of the most mesmerizing destinations in Palawan Island, offering a surreal mix of turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, and a hidden inner lagoon. This iconic attraction is named after its two stunning lagoons, which are separated by dramatic karst formations and connected by a narrow opening.
One of the most exciting features of Twin Lagoon is how visitors access the hidden inner lagoon. During high tide, you must swim or kayak through a narrow rock passage beneath the cliffs, creating a thrilling and almost mystical experience.
During low tide, a wooden staircase allows an easier entry for those who prefer to avoid swimming through the gap. The lagoon’s unique thermocline effect, where warm and cool water layers mix, creates an otherworldly sensation as you glide through the crystal-clear waters.
A Coron island-hopping tour that includes Twin Lagoon allows you to explore its breathtaking scenery alongside other stunning sites. Booking a guided tour ensures a smooth and hassle-free adventure.
12. Malcapuya Island in Coron Town
One of the best beaches near Coron town, Malcapuya Island is a tropical paradise known for its powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and serene atmosphere. Often compared to the popular Boracay Island for its soft, flour-like sand, this island offers a more secluded and tranquil escape, perfect for those looking to relax and unwind in a breathtaking setting.
Malcapuya Island’s shallow, turquoise waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, where visitors can spot colorful fish and vibrant coral reefs just a few meters from the shore. Palm trees line the beachfront, providing shady spots to lounge, while the panoramic hilltop view offers a stunning vantage point over the surrounding islands.
A visit to Malcapuya Island is part of the best beaches tour from Coron town, which also includes stops at other pristine island destinations. Booking this tour ensures a seamless and hassle-free getaway, allowing you to fully experience Coron town’s most beautiful beach destinations in one unforgettable trip.
13. Shipwreck Diving Spots in Coron Town
Coron town is home to some of the best World War II shipwreck dive sites, making it a top destination for wreck diving enthusiasts. These sunken Japanese warships, remnants of a 1944 U.S. Navy air raid, are now covered in vibrant corals and serve as thriving marine habitats. Popular dive sites include Skeleton Wreck, Lusong Gunboat, and Tangat Wreck, which offer a mix of snorkeling-friendly shallows and deeper, more challenging dives.
For certified divers, Coron diving packages provide access to larger wrecks like the Akitsushima, Irako, and Okikawa Maru, where you can explore hidden corridors, cargo holds, and gun turrets teeming with marine life.
If you're not a diver, a Coron reefs and wreck tour is a great alternative, allowing snorkelers and beginners to experience the beauty of shallow shipwrecks and vibrant coral gardens without deep diving. Whether you're a seasoned diver or just starting out, Coron town’s shipwrecks offer an unforgettable underwater adventure.
14. Long Beach in San Vicente Town
Stretching 14 kilometers along the pristine coastline of San Vicente town, Long Beach holds the title of the longest white sand beach in the Philippines. Unlike the more developed beaches in Palawan Island, Long Beach remains largely untouched, offering visitors a serene escape where they can enjoy the beauty of nature without the crowds. Its powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and swaying coconut trees create the perfect backdrop for a peaceful retreat.
What sets Long Beach apart is its raw and unspoiled charm. With minimal commercial development, the beach offers a tranquil atmosphere where visitors can take long walks along the shore, swim in calm waters, or simply relax under the shade of coconut trees. The stunning sunsets over the West Philippine Sea add to the magical experience, painting the sky with vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple.
While Long Beach is still emerging as a top destination, its growing selection of eco-friendly resorts in San Vicente town ensures that visitors can enjoy a relaxing stay while preserving the area's natural beauty.
15. Snake Island in El Nido Town
Snake Island is one of El Nido town’s most unique natural wonders, famous for its S-shaped sandbar that emerges during low tide, connecting it to another islet. This stunning formation allows visitors to walk across the shallow sandbar, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views of Bacuit Bay and the nearby limestone islands.
The shallow waters around Snake Island make it an excellent spot for snorkeling, where you can spot colorful fish and vibrant coral formations. For the best views, a short hike to a viewpoint on the island offers a panoramic perspective of the sandbar and surrounding seascape, making it a perfect photo opportunity.
A visit to Snake Island is part of El Nido island-hopping Tour B, which also includes stops at hidden beaches, scenic caves, and remote snorkeling spots. Booking a guided island-hopping tour ensures a seamless and unforgettable experience, allowing you to explore Snake Island along with El Nido town’s other breathtaking destinations.
16. Mt. Tapyas in Coron Town
For the best panoramic views of Coron town and its surrounding islands, a hike up Mt. Tapyas is a must. Standing at 210 meters above sea level, this scenic viewpoint is accessible via a 724-step staircase leading to a large white cross and a spacious viewing deck. The climb may be a bit of a workout, but the breathtaking scenery at the top makes it well worth the effort.
The best time to visit Mt. Tapyas is just before sunset when the sky transforms into a stunning display of orange, pink, and purple hues, casting a golden glow over Coron Bay, lush hills, and limestone formations. The cool breeze and peaceful ambiance at the summit provide the perfect setting for relaxation after the climb.
For a hassle-free experience, join a Coron town tour that includes Mt. Tapyas, along with other must-visit spots like Maquinit Hot Springs, where you can unwind in natural saltwater pools after your hike.
17. Secret Lagoon in El Nido Town
Tucked away behind towering limestone cliffs, Secret Lagoon is one of El Nido town’s most enchanting hidden gems. Accessible only through a small cave-like opening, this secluded lagoon reveals a quiet, almost mystical paradise, surrounded by dramatic rock formations. The calm, shallow waters and the serene atmosphere make it feel like a secret world waiting to be discovered.
As part of the top-rated El Nido island-hopping Tour A, a visit to Secret Lagoon offers a unique experience of swimming through its narrow entrance and emerging into a breathtaking natural sanctuary.
The towering cliffs provide shade, making it an ideal spot to float in the tranquil waters and soak in the raw beauty of Palawan Island. During high tide, the entrance can become more challenging, adding an element of adventure to the visit.
18. Calauit Safari Park in Busuanga Island
For a wildlife experience unlike any other in the Philippines, Calauit Safari Park in Busuanga Island offers a rare opportunity to see African wildlife thriving in a lush setting.
Spanning 3,700 hectares, this unique wildlife reserve is home to giraffes, zebras, and antelopes, which were introduced to the island in the 1970s. Alongside these exotic species, the park also protects endemic Philippine wildlife, including the Calamian deer, Palawan bearcat, and Philippine porcupine.
A visit to Calauit Safari Park allows visitors to interact with gentle giraffes, observe herds of zebras roaming freely, and learn about the park’s ongoing conservation efforts. The experience is both educational and immersive, making it an ideal trip for families, nature lovers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
To explore this extraordinary safari adventure, booking a Calauit Safari tour from the town of Coron is the best way to enjoy guided access to the park, ensuring a seamless and enriching visit.
19. Shimizu Island in El Nido Town
A haven for snorkeling enthusiasts, Shimizu Island is one of El Nido town’s best underwater playgrounds, boasting vibrant coral gardens, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. Just beneath the surface, you’ll find colorful fish, thriving coral formations, and even occasional sightings of sea turtles, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling and marine exploration.
Beyond its underwater beauty, Shimizu Island also features scenic limestone cliffs and small sandy coves, providing a picturesque setting for relaxation. A highlight of El Nido island-hopping Tour A, Shimizu Island is usually a stop for beachside lunch, allowing visitors to enjoy a fresh seafood feast while surrounded by stunning natural landscapes.
20. Punta Sebaring Beach in Balabac Islands
Photo by detourista.com
Punta Sebaring Beach is a hidden paradise that is part of Balabac Islands, the southernmost town of Palawan. It boasts powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, yet remains untouched by commercial development, making it a perfect escape for those seeking seclusion and raw natural beauty. Due to its remote location, visitors must take a boat from the mainland to reach this pristine destination, adding to its exclusivity.
During low tide, a stunning sandbar emerges, extending into the shallow waters. The rippled patterns on the sandbar, created by the gentle lapping waves, add to the breathtaking scenery, making it a must-see natural wonder.
For a hassle-free trip, booking a Balabac Islands tour package is highly recommended, ensuring a seamless adventure through Punta Sebaring Beach and other breathtaking attractions in this remote destination.
21. Seven Commandos Beach in El Nido Town
A tropical paradise of soft white sand and crystal-clear blue waters, Seven Commandos Beach is one of the most scenic and relaxing stops in El Nido island-hopping Tour A. Framed by swaying coconut trees and towering limestone cliffs, this stunning beach offers a laid-back atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of Palawan Island.
Legend has it that the beach was named after seven Japanese commandos who were stranded here during World War II, adding a bit of mystery to this already enchanting destination. Today, it’s a favorite among beach lovers looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure.
At Seven Commandos Beach, you can play beach volleyball, snorkel in shallow waters teeming with marine life, or simply lounge on the shore with a refreshing coconut drink in hand. The beachfront also has local bars and snack shacks, where you can enjoy a cold drink or light refreshments while gazing at the stunning coastline.
22. Firefly Watching in Iwahig River of Puerto Princesa City
Iwahig firefly watching is a famous evening riverboat cruise in Puerto Princesa. They let tourists view flickering insects, also known as "fireflies" or "lightning bugs." This educational firefly watching activity is one of the community-based sustainable tourism initiatives and eco tours of the city.
It started in 2007 and now being managed by the locals of Barangay Iwahig. It's temporarily closed due to rehabilitation purposes, but it'll be opened soon to the public.
This tourist attraction is among the bucket lists of tourists as it also gives them a chance to have a close encounter with fireflies. The watching site, which is around 45 minutes away from the city proper, opens at 6 p.m. as the fireflies usually come out in the evening.
Fireflies live in the mangroves and trees situated along the banks and Sicsican and Iwahig Rivers. They typically thrive in pollution and noise-free areas. Using flash photography during the tour is, however, discouraged as this may disturb the fireflies which are inhabiting the area.
23. Culion Island
The world's largest leper colony in the 1900s, Culion is a town that's well-suited for people wanting to try heritage tours.
Cut off from the rest of the world, its former inhabitants – including Spanish priests and caregivers - lived among themselves and were isolated until it was declared leprosy-free in 2006.
Remnants of the Spanish-era settlement remain intact until today, including a nursery for children, a sanitorium, a male dormitory, and several plazas.
The best way to cap off your day is by taking the 333 steps up to Aguila's viewpoint, which overlooks the municipality and the other islands in Calamianes. It's a unique tourist spot included in Palawan island-hopping tours that deserves at least a place in your route.
From Coron town, you can take the 1:30 p.m. passenger boat to Culion. The ship leaves Culion for Coron the next day at 7 a.m. If you don't plan on staying the night, you can join a day tour to Coron. It's hassle-free, and you'll get free pick-up and drop off to your hotel in Coron.
24. Manguao Lake in Taytay Municipality
Photo by Taytay, Palawan Tourism Office
Manguao Lake sits in the town of Taytay in the northern region of Palawan Island. This 640-hectare lake is known to be one of the largest freshwater lakes in the Philippines. Bordering its blue waters are lush forests that offer beautiful scenery to tourists and locals, making it a great spot for a peaceful getaway.
Inside the lake, you can find 3 endemic fish species. Meanwhile, the surrounding lush forests are home to about 136 birds and 29 kinds of mammals. Birdwatchers often flock to the lake to try and spot rarer or endemic species such as the Palawan peacock pheasant, Palawan hornbill, and Philippine duck. In light of the lake's rich biodiversity, it is also recognized as a Municipal Conservation area and Ecotourism Zone.
While the lake's waters are calm and may seem very inviting, the local government does not recommend swimming in it during the dry season due to the cyanobacteria that bloom there. Instead, it is safer to wade in the waters during the rainy season. Aside from being a great place to stop and relax, the lake is a well-known fishing spot among locals.
25. Fort Santa Isabel in Taytay Municipality
Photo by Taytay, Palawan Tourism Office
Fort Santa Isabel, which is commonly known as the Taytay Fort, is a structure that dates back to 1667, when it was first built out of wood. It was named in honor of the Queen Isabella II of Spain. Eventually, it was rebuilt using coral stone and was finally completed in 1738. This coastal fortification mainly served as a way to protect Taytay from Muslim warrior-raiders during the Spanish reign in the Philippines. Back then, the Spanish army had fired cannons from the fortress whenever the Muslim forces would sail towards the small town.
A bastion or garitas is located at each corner of the fort. Aside from serving as a means of protection, the structure is also recognized as an important part of the local heritage, especially religion. Etched into some portions of the stone walls are Roman Catholic scenes and figures that were highly revered during the Spanish reign.
In 2018, the local government collaborated with the National Historical Commission to restore this grand structure to its former glory.
26. Cuyo Fort
Photo by Cuyo Island
The Cuyo Fort stands in the center of the historic Cuyo Island, which is located in the northeastern waters of Palawan Island. The municipality of Cuyo is the oldest town in the province and served as Palawan's second capital from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. During the Spanish colonization era in the Philippines, Spanish forces constructed the fort to serve as a fortress from attacks by the Moro people. It was completed in 1680 and was made out of stone and mortar. Aside from providing protection, this naval structure also housed the town's church, adoration chapel, and convent, making it one of the most unique forts in the country.
Along with the church, a belfry was also erected inside the fort's premises, along with watchtowers. Today, the fortress' walls measure up to ten meters high, and you can even walk along the renovated portions of the wall to get a better view of the island and its surroundings. The church also remains a significant part of the community and is the venue for the town's annual Feast of St. Augustine, which takes place every 28th of August.
27. Mt. Aguado in Cuyo Islands
Photo by A Journey of Faith
Another popular tourist attraction on Cuyo Island is Mt. Aguado. This towering mountain is covered with lush forests that house various species of birds and mammals and is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. However, the mountain does not only serve as an ecotourism site. It is also best known for the life-sized statues that depict the Stations of Cross, a testament to the strong Spanish and Catholic influence on the island.
These statues begin at the foot of the mountain continue all the way to the peak. Devout Catholics make the pilgrimage to the mountain annually as part of Holy Week rites observed in Cuyo. At the end of the trail, you will be rewarded with a 360-degree view of the whole island. From here, you can even see the surrounding islands that also make up the Cuyo Archipelago.
28. Cagayancillo Fort
To protect the town of Cagayancillo from invaders in the late 16th century, the Spanish forces that colonized the area at the time decided to build the Cagayancillo Fort. This naval fortress, however, took over a hundred years to complete and was only fully constructed in the early 18th century under the leadership of a Spanish priest. In contrast to other forts built in Palawan under the Spanish regime, this one was built using sea rocks and limestones.
The whole structure was also constructed in the shape of a diamond instead of the more common rectangular forts. Its walls are about 12 meters high and 3 meters thick. Like the Cuyo Fort, Cagayancillo's also houses the town's church to ensure that the locals could safely practice religious rites.
Explore Palawan and Discover its Natural Wonders
There are indeed a lot of things to do in Palawan. From El Nido to Puerto Princesa, to Coron, and San Vicente, you'll have a lot of options for your trip to this beautiful region.
Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, eco-tours, or beach tours, you'll surely find the best adventure for you and your group!
Start looking for things to do in Palawan now. Explore Palawan tours and activities that you can add to your itinerary for a complete and hassle-free travel experience.
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