Palawan Paradise: A Journey Through Pristine Beaches, Hidden Lagoons, and Tropical Wonders

Full 1

BLOG

Discovering Paradise: My Unforgettable Journey to Palawan, Philippines

Palawan, often referred to as the “Last Frontier” of the Philippines, had been on my travel bucket list for years. Known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking landscapes, it promised an adventure like no other. Finally, the day arrived when I boarded a flight from Manila to Puerto Princesa, ready to explore this tropical paradise. Here’s the story of my incredible journey, filled with unforgettable experiences, from the world-famous Underground River to the serene beauty of Palawan’s hidden gems.

Day 1: Flying to Puerto Princesa with AirAsia

My adventure began with a smooth and comfortable flight from Manila to Puerto Princesa with AirAsia. The airline’s affordable fares and efficient service made the journey stress-free. As we descended into Puerto Princesa, I caught my first glimpse of Palawan’s lush greenery and turquoise waters. The excitement was palpable—I couldn’t wait to start exploring!

Upon arrival, I checked into my hotel, Dolce Vita Hotel, a tranquil retreat surrounded by nature. The resort’s eco-friendly design and warm hospitality made it the perfect place to unwind after my flight.

Day 2: Exploring the Puerto Princesa Underground River

The highlight of my trip was undoubtedly the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. I booked a guided tour through Getyourguide, which included transportation, a boat ride, and a knowledgeable guide.

The journey to the Underground River was an adventure in itself. We traveled through lush forests and spotted monkeys and monitor lizards along the way. Upon arrival, we boarded a small paddleboat and ventured into the cave. The sheer magnitude of the underground river was awe-inspiring. Our guide pointed out stunning rock formations, some resembling religious figures and animals, while we marveled at the natural beauty around us.

The experience was nothing short of magical. The cool, damp air inside the cave, the sound of dripping water, and the sight of bats flying overhead made me feel like I was in another world. It’s no wonder this place is considered one of the most incredible natural wonders on Earth.

Day 3: Island-Hopping in Honda Bay

No trip to Palawan is complete without island-hopping, and Honda Bay was the perfect place to do it. I booked a tour through Getyourguide, which included visits to several stunning islands, such as Starfish Island, Cowrie Island, and Luli Island.

The crystal-clear waters were perfect for snorkeling, and I was amazed by the vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish. Starfish Island lived up to its name, with countless starfish scattered across the shallow waters. It was a surreal experience to swim in such pristine surroundings.

Day 4: Relaxing in El Nido

From Puerto Princesa, I took a van to El Nido, a picturesque town known for its towering limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons. I stayed at El Nido Resorts – Pangulasian Island, a luxurious eco-resort with stunning views of Bacuit Bay.

El Nido’s beauty is unparalleled. I joined an island-hopping tour and visited the famous Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, and Secret Beach. Each stop was more breathtaking than the last. Kayaking through the lagoons and swimming in the emerald-green waters felt like a dream.

Day 5: Discovering Coron’s Wonders

My final stop was Coron, known for its shipwrecks and hot springs. I stayed at Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa, a beautiful resort with overwater bungalows and direct access to the sea.

I booked a diving tour through GetYourGuide and explored the famous Skeleton Wreck and Barracuda Lake. The underwater world of Coron was mesmerizing, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.

Where to Stay in Palawan

Here are some of my top hotel recommendations for your Palawan adventure:

Dolce Vita Hotel (Puerto Princesa)
El Nido Resorts – Pangulasian Island (El Nido)
Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa (Coron)

More Things to Do in Palawan

If you’re planning a trip to Palawan, here are some must-do activities:

Explore Tubbataha Reef – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best diving spots in the world.
Visit the Dos Palmas Island Resort – Perfect for snorkeling and relaxation.
Take a Firefly Watching Tour – A magical experience in the mangroves of Puerto Princesa.
Go Scuba Diving in Coron – Discover shipwrecks and vibrant marine life.

Final Thoughts

My trip to Palawan was nothing short of extraordinary. From the awe-inspiring Underground River to the serene beauty of El Nido and Coron, every moment was filled with wonder and adventure. Palawan truly lives up to its reputation as a tropical paradise, and I can’t wait to return.

If you’re dreaming of a getaway that combines natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation, Palawan should be at the top of your list. Book your trip today and experience the magic for yourself!

Disclaimer: This blog contains affiliate links. If you book through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my blog and allows me to continue sharing my travel adventures with you!

Hello! I’m Roy Hermans, a Dutch adventurer exploring the world as much as I can. Based in the Netherlands, I share all my travel experiences and adventures along the way.

Feel free to follow me, drop a comment, or reach out via email for more details or travel tips!

Keep traveling!