Table of Contents
When is the Best Time to Visit in Palawan?
Palawan is a tropical haven, often hailed as one of the most beautiful islands in the world. From the azure waters of El Nido to the shipwreck diving sites in Coron, this paradise offers endless adventures for travelers seeking sun, sea, and scenery. But to fully enjoy your Palawan experience, it’s essential to know the best time to visit in Palawan.
In this guide, we’ll explore the ideal seasons for visiting Palawan, what to expect during different months, and how to make the most of your trip. Whether you’re planning island-hopping tours, diving expeditions, or scenic journeys from Coron to El Nido, we’ve got you covered.
A captivating photo of tourists enjoying island hopping in Palawan under sunny blue skies
Dry Season: The Best Time to Visit in Palawan
For most travelers, the best time to visit in Palawan is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. This period offers sunny skies, calm seas, and minimal rainfall—perfect conditions for outdoor activities like island hopping, diving, and kayaking.
- November to February: These months are considered the peak tourist season in Palawan. With cooler temperatures and clear skies, it’s the ideal time for exploring the lagoons of El Nido, the stunning freshwater lakes in Coron, and the vibrant coral reefs of Tubbataha.
- March to May: As temperatures rise, Palawan transitions into summer mode. This is the best time for sun-seekers who want to bask on white-sand beaches and enjoy uninterrupted sunshine.
Keep in mind that because this is the peak season, popular destinations like El Nido and Coron can get crowded. Booking your tours, accommodations, and ferry tickets in advance is highly recommended.
Rainy Season: Is It Still Worth Visiting Palawan?
If you’re wondering whether the rainy season is a good time to visit, the answer depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. The rainy season in Palawan runs from June to October and is characterized by occasional heavy rains and rough seas.
- June and July: Early in the rainy season, showers are usually brief and occur in the late afternoon or evening. This means you can still enjoy morning island tours, snorkeling, and kayaking before the rain rolls in.
- August to October: These months are the wettest and also coincide with the typhoon season in the Philippines. While the risk of canceled tours is higher, you’ll also find fewer tourists and cheaper accommodations during this time.
For budget-conscious travelers or those seeking a quieter, more laid-back experience, the rainy season can be a great time to explore Palawan. Just pack a rain jacket, and be prepared for some spontaneous changes to your itinerary!
Island-Hopping and Scenic Tours: Coron to El Nido
One of the top experiences in Palawan is the journey from Coron to El Nido. This scenic route takes you past limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and secluded beaches—some of the most stunning landscapes in the Philippines.
During the dry season, you can book multi-day boat tours that include stops at must-see spots like:
- Kayangan Lake: Known for its crystal-clear waters, this lake is often dubbed the cleanest in the Philippines.
- Twin Lagoons: Accessible only by swimming or kayaking, these lagoons offer a serene and otherworldly experience.
- Snake Island: This sandbar, shaped like a winding snake, is a perfect spot for sunbathing and taking panoramic photos.
If you’re visiting during the rainy season, you might need to stick to shorter day tours due to rougher seas. But don’t worry—there are still plenty of sheltered coves and inland attractions to explore.
Best Diving Palawan: When to Explore the Underwater World
For diving enthusiasts, the best time to visit in Palawan depends on which sites you want to explore.
- Tubbataha Reefs: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is only open from mid-March to mid-June, when diving conditions are at their best. During this window, you can expect excellent visibility, calm waters, and the chance to spot reef sharks, manta rays, and sea turtles.
- Coron Shipwrecks: Coron’s famous WWII shipwrecks can be dived year-round, but conditions are typically better during the dry season. If you’re an advanced diver, don’t miss the eerie experience of exploring these sunken relics of history.
- El Nido’s Coral Reefs: El Nido offers beginner-friendly dive sites with vibrant coral gardens and abundant marine life. It’s a great place to get your PADI certification or enjoy a leisurely dive with your partner.
Eco-Friendly Travel Tips for Visiting Palawan
Palawan is often referred to as the Philippines’ last ecological frontier, and protecting its natural beauty is a priority for locals and travelers alike. Here are some tips for minimizing your environmental impact while visiting:
- Bring a Reusable Water Bottle: Many hotels and tour operators offer water refilling stations to reduce plastic waste.
- Avoid Single-Use Plastics: Say no to plastic straws, bags, and utensils.
- Respect Marine Life: Don’t touch corals, feed fish, or disturb wildlife.
- Support Local Businesses: Choose locally owned accommodations, restaurants, and tour operators to support the local economy.
By practicing sustainable tourism, you can help preserve Palawan’s pristine environment for future generations to enjoy.
Conclusion
So, when is the best time to visit in Palawan? For sunny skies, calm seas, and the full range of outdoor adventures, the dry season from November to May is your best bet. But if you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, consider visiting during the early rainy season.
Whether you’re island-hopping from Coron to El Nido, diving in Tubbataha, or simply relaxing on a white-sand beach, Palawan offers something for every traveler. Have you visited Palawan? What was your favorite experience? Share your thoughts in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
