About Palawan

Picture-perfect Palawan is one of the Philippines’ most beguiling destinations, promising superb seascapes, and lush islets with beautiful hideaways for a romantic retreat or active family stay. Increasingly popular with divers and beach lovers, Palawan offers a wide range of accommodation options, from simple guesthouses to stunning luxury resorts. Most of the best places to stay in Palawan are clustered near El Nido, to the north of the main, 400 mile-long island. Some are on Palawan Island itself, but many are dotted around the Bacuit Archipelago or Coron Island, ensuring plenty of privacy in spectacular tropical surroundings.

Some of our Palawan Collections:

Fly into Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan Province, for a livelier city vibe and the chance to discover the region’s complex history — from indigenous inhabitants to the Spanish colonial period, American rule and the Japanese invasion during World War Two. Composed of the narrow sliver of Palawan Island itself as well as up to 1,780 further islands and islets, the Palawan region is a fascinating network of undulating mountains clad in verdant greenery, with rocky coves sheltering sandy beaches and gorgeous lagoons brimming with fish and corals.

Come to Palawan for the crystal-clear lagoons, reefs teeming with diverse marine life, and the tremendous range of activities to try, both on and under the water. From wrecks to caves, there are some awesome dives in the unspoilt Palawan waters, and this is an excellent place to hone your skills or to try diving for the first time. There are also ample opportunities to snorkel, paddle board, kayak or sail. Soak up the sunshine on pristine private beaches, or head up into the hills for scenic hikes and birdwatching. Our selection of the best places to stay in Palawan features spacious stilted suites with impressive sea views, indulgent spas and a plethora of activities set to dazzle and delight.

The Best Places to Stay in Palawan

For an intimate hideaway

  • Qi Palawan boasts just eight thatched cabanas in a relatively undiscovered part of north-eastern Palawan. The vibe is simple and rustic, with wooden furnishings and a real focus on making the most of the unspoilt natural surroundings. Try mountain biking and yoga, or head out into the water for snorkeling, diving, paddle boarding and kitesurfing. An intimate, low-key retreat.
  • Parada Beach Camp is nothing short of magical. A glamping retreat on Iloc Island's unspoilt Parada Beach, this understated hideaway has cosy double beds topped with woven quilts and earthy-toned cushions in tented spaces with pale wooden furnishings and leafy pot plants. Take a dip in the pool, join fellow guests at the resto-bar, or kick back in hammocks slung between the palms. 
  • Bahala Na Villas offers a collection of eight whitewashed one- and two-bedroom villas with plunge pools and pared-back contemporary interiors. Each villa has a well-equipped kitchenette & sitting room, but private dining experiences also come highly recommended. Small, private and chic, yet within easy reach of bustling El Nido.

For urban style

  • H Hotel El Nido has smart, modern guest rooms overlooking the bay at El Nido. Think bold blue accents, big beds topped with pressed white sheets, and in-room desks. The rooftop bar is ideal for sundowners, and the vegan restaurant deservedly popular. A central base for those dreaming of a stylish urban vibe. 
  • The Funny Lion El Nido is a sleek urban bolthole with polished wood and crisp white linens in compact rooms decorated in moody green tones. Guests congregate around the swimming pool and bar for happy hour, before heading to lively El Nido beach. The spa and all-day dining restaurant add to the appeal. Fresh and fun. 

For a seaside escape

  • Miniloc Island is a lovely collection of thatch-roofed rooms clustered around a tranquil cove. Built using natural materials and traditional Filipino design techniques, the hotel has a relaxed feel, allowing the striking surroundings to really shine. Try diving, snorkeling, paddle boarding and kayaking, as well as boat trips to marvel at natural wonders nearby. Family Suites make this a great base if travelling with children. One for outdoorsy discoverers keen to spend time out on the water.
  • Apulit Island, located in north-eastern Palawan, features fifty stilted cottages, twenty of which have space for four people -- ideal for families or groups of friends. This hotel is all about adventurous activities, from exploring caves to abseiling down a 60-metre limestone cliff. There's diving and snorkeling amongst giant clams, too, along with beach classics like volleyball. An active family or group pick.
  • Club Paradise is a gorgeous private island resort, boasting fifty chic rooms and suites, as well as the excellent Glow Spa. Pick this place for its location: think pristine beaches, beautiful reefs for snorkeling and diving, and plenty of striking natural land and seascapes to discover in the Coron bio reserve area.
  • Cauayan Resort features spacious wooden villas on an island near El Nido, promising a laid-back escape in spectacular surroundings. Relax at the spa, try diving at one of eighteen marvellous sites, and feast on fantastic food at the restaurant. A barefoot beach haven.
  • Two Seasons Coron Island Resort offers 46 tranquil bungalows and casitas on a peninsula surrounded by sparkling waters. Expect a timeless feel in spaces with polished wooden floors, beamed ceilings and sea view terraces. Treat yourself to a suite with private plunge pool, ideal for long soaks after days out on the water. The curved communal pools are also lovely. 

For eco-luxury

  • Pangulasian Island offers 42 elegant villas — some of which boast their own private plunge pools —overlooking 750m of white sand and a marine sanctuary. Stay here for the fabulous spa and the focus on sustainability. With myriad activities to choose from on land and water, as well as excellent hospitality, this is tropical eco-living at its most luxurious.
  • Lagen Island features 51 sophisticated suites and cottages, tucked between the island's four hectares of lush greenery and a tranquil lagoon. Charming rooms are crafted from timber recycled from old Filipino homes, and offer magnificent views. A sanctuary for rare birds and mammals, the island is ideal for romantic couples or quiet individuals in search of an intimate, luxurious stay with great green credentials.

For great value

  • Astoria Palawan is a cheerful, affordable beach resort with bright one- and two-bedroom suites bordering a lively waterpark. Karaoke, a fun games room, three swimming pools and a bright, colourful palette add to the sense of fun at this relaxed spot. Ideal for families or big groups. 

For an apartment or villa

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

  • There are regular international flights to Puerto Princesa International Airport in Palawan. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pickup, or you can hop into a taxi, bus or minivan if staying on the mainland.
  • If you are staying further from Puerto Princesa, consider domestic flights from Manila to El Nido, Coron or San Vicente, to shorten the distance that you'll be travelling by road or ferry.
  • Alternatively, contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Palawan is a wonderful year-round destination, with temperatures averaging between 28 and 32°C. Most travellers visit between November and May, so do book well in advance to avoid disappointment!

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The best hotels in Palawan

Astoria Palawan

Palawan (Philippines)

A big beach resort with bright one- and two-bedroom suites bedecked in bold orange, yellow or blue tones, facing leafy gardens and the sea. Three swimming pools, multiple restaurants, a spa and shops add to the appeal at this relaxed, affordable hotel. The waterpark is nothing short of fabulous!

  • Hotel Entertainment - The games room, karaoke and waterpark — the first in Puerto Princesa — are brilliant fun for guests of all ages
  • Families - A family-friendly resort with two-bedroom suites, an exciting waterpark & playground, plus multiple pools
  • Value chic - A great value choice for those seeking a large resort experience for a conference or holiday
  • Restaurant - Dine at The Reserve, The Habitat, Fine Nest, Rise & Roast Café or other resort eateries
from £51 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Parada Beach Camp

Palawan (Philippines)

A magical glamping retreat facing unspoilt Parada Beach on Iloc Island. Set within the gardens, spacious tents feature pale wooden furnishings, potted plants, cosy double beds topped with quilts & patterned cushions. A convivial restaurant & bar, refreshing pool & hammocks complete the vibe.

  • Beach Life - Unwind in seaside hammocks, amble along the beach or enjoy days of swimming, snorkelling, kayaking & diving in clear waters
  • Romantic Break - Spacious glamping tents are brilliant for romantic couples seeking a tranquil retreat, with yoga and lots of beach time
  • Hotel Entertainment - Live music evenings, creative workshops, volleyball and board game nights with fellow guests are great fun
  • Diving - Snorkel and dive in crystal clear waters, with dazzling coral reefs, colourful marine life and submerged wrecks to discover
from £70 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on My Luxury Hotel

H Hotel El Nido

Palawan (Philippines)

A stylish contemporary hotel with an urban feel in Palawan's lively El Nido. Guest room interiors are smart & modern, with clean lines & crisp white linens, bold blue walls & dazzling sea views through full-length windows. The rooftop bar is superb for sundowners & the vegan restaurant a stand-out.

  • Close to nightlife - Kickstart your evening with craft cocktails at Piece of Sky before heading out to nearby bars and lively restaurants
  • Foodies - Keen foodies will appreciate the creative vegan fare at hip Ver de El Nido, and cocktails at Piece of Sky
  • Watersports - Head out on sailing, snorkelling, diving and kayaking excursions with tour operators from El Nido
  • City Style - A stylish contemporary hotel with an urban feel and dazzling ocean views in bustling El Nido
from £131 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Bahala Na Villas

Palawan (Philippines)

A collection of eight whitewashed two-bedroom villas with pared-back interiors, hanging lampshades & tropical plants. Each villa features a well-equipped kitchenette & sitting room, both with polished wood & earthy tones. Sliding doors reveal cooling plunge pools & private dining is superb.

  • Groups - Two-bedroom villas with plunge pools, kitchens & sitting rooms are brilliant for friends travelling together
  • Total relaxation - An intimate spot offering plenty of privacy, plus in-room massages, fresh cuisine & a laid-back vibe
  • Hotel boats for hire - Jump aboard the hotel's speedboat for beautiful days hopping between nearby islands
  • Restaurant - Breakfasts are included, and guests can eat lunch & dinner at the onsite restaurant, which also serves great cocktails
from £141 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The Funny Lion - El Nido

Palawan (Philippines)

A sleek urban hotel with guest rooms in moody green tones with polished wood and crisp white linens. Set around a swimming pool with a buzzy happy hour bar, the hotel is moments from picturesque El Nido Beach. Highlights include the spa & all-day dining restaurant. Stylish, lively and fun.

  • Other Activities - Days out at secluded Papaya Beach, with swings, hammocks and a volleyball court are great fun for families and friends
  • Groups - A lively, convivial vibe for groups of friends eager to gather for happy hour, kick back poolside & share twin rooms
  • City Style - A smart urban hotel in a seaside town, with sleek guest rooms set around a refreshing pool
  • Kayaking - Kayaking excursions to Small Lagoon will delight active travellers, with opportunities to swim & admire craggy limestone cliffs
from £179 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Qi Palawan

Palawan (Palawan)

This boutique island bolt-hole is tucked away in northeastern Palawan, between a virgin forest and the beach. Rustic guest villas have traditional thatched roofs and bamboo walls, with locally carved wooden furniture; enjoy sea views from your terrace. Go snorkelling off the coast; a chic hideaway.

  • Beach Life - Set on a largely undeveloped stretch of coastline in El Nido, this resort offers guests access to beautiful, untouched beaches
  • Active Holiday - With watersports and island tours among some of the activities available, book this resort to start your Philippines adventure
  • Romantic Break - Couples love the rustic-chic guest accommodation at this hotel; book a couples' massage for a romantic evening
  • Sights nearby - Take an island tour with a hotel guide and explore this lesser known corner of El Nido, with stop offs in local fishing villages
from £155 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Club Paradise

Palawan (Coron)

This luxury resort is nestled on a tropical bio reserve in Coron. Spacious guest villas are built in the traditional style, with thatched roofs and native bamboo accents; book a premier villa for a furnished verandah. Sample the catch of the day at Firefish seafood restaurant; a chic island getaway.

  • Romantic Break - Couples rate this chic island bolt-hole highly; book a candlelit beachfront dinner for a romantic evening
  • Beach Life - Set on the unspoiled white sand beaches of Coron, this resort is perfect for a luxury island getaway
  • Local exploring - Explore Palawan and the neighbouring islands with a hotel package, from island hopping to bike tours
  • Spa
from £262 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Two Seasons Coron Island Resort

Palawan (Philippines)

Perched on a peninsula surrounded by glittering lagoon waters, this resort promises 46 tranquil bungalows & casitas with polished wooden floors, beamed ceilings & big cosy beds. The best have private plunge pools. A sea-facing restaurant and bar, plus two curved swimming pools, complete the picture.

  • Beach Life - In a stunning island setting, perfect for keen beach goers or those eager to enjoy water sports galore — including great diving
  • Diving - Breathtaking World War II Japanese shipwrecks & amazing marine life on bright reefs will delight beginner & experienced divers
  • Families - Families will love the kids' pool & play area, as well as generous bungalows, beautiful beach & the relaxed resort feel
  • Hotel boats for hire - Day trips to Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, Sangat Wreck, and Siete Pecados are fantastic & well worth signing up for
from £400 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Miniloc Island

Palawan

This village-style resort is set on an azure, secluded cove on Miniloc Island in the Philippines. Guest suites are built using local techniques, with thatched roofs and woven bamboo walls; book a cliff cottage for panoramic views. Dine at the restaurant after a hotel cruise; a chic island getaway.

  • Foodies - Foodies love the hotel's clubhouse restaurant; sample a range of regional dishes curated by local chefs
  • Active Holiday - This resort is great for active guests, boasting a range of watersports, cruises and a games room
  • Beach Life - Set on a beautiful, quiet cove on Miniloc Island, this hotel makes for a tranquil beach break
  • Diving - Explore life under the surface of the crystalline waters with a diving trip; book through the hotel for great deals
from £317 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Apulit Island

Palawan (Palawan)

This eco-adventure resort is nestled on Taytay Bay in northeastern Palawan. Guests are accommodated in water cottages built on stilts around two coves, each with a chic verandah; book a loft cottage for direct sea access. Rappel down a 60-metre limestone cliff at the resort; a unique island getaway.

  • Beach Life - Set on a stretch of pristine, white-sand beach on Apulit Island, this hotel makes a dreamy setting for your next beach holiday
  • Active Holiday - This resort is perfect for active guests, with a range of thrill-inducing activities - try abseiling down a cliff or diving
  • Families - Book one of the hotel's loft water cottages for family-sized living space; kids love the hotel's adventure activities
  • Restaurant
from £319 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Lagen Island Resort

Palawan (El Nido)

Set between a native forest and a lagoon, this eco resort offers a retreat to nature on Lagen Island. Guest suites incorporate recycled timber in chic flooring, with French windows leading to a private verandah; book a beachfront cottage for cove views. Explore the mangroves on a kayak; a chic stay.

  • Local exploring - This resort offers a range of activities to help guests explore the island, from snorkelling to kayaking in a mangrove forest
  • Romantic Break - Couples love the stylish suites at this island bolt-hole; book a cottage for pretty views of the cove
  • Beach Life - Set on a beautiful island with pristine beaches, this hotel makes a luxurious seaside getaway
  • Sights nearby - Discover the hidden caves on the cove with a hotel guide and learn more about these ancient rock formations
from £343 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island

Palawan (Palawan)

A luxury resort set on the pristine Pangulasian Island. Individual villas are styled on traditional Filipino design with a contemporary feel. Light, airy and complete with all the mod cons. The spa and perfect white-sand beach aid complete relaxation. Ideal for tropical getaways.

  • Beach Life - Situated on a picturesque white-fringed island, the perfect tropical escape.
  • Diving - The on-site scuba centre offer diving and snorkelling trips to nearby coral reefs.
  • Sailing - Take a private sunset cruise discovering the surrounding islands.
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pools
from £472 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Cauayan Resort

Palawan (Palawan)

Barefoot luxury reigns at this Cauayan Island resort in the Philippines. Choose from a range of private villas on the beach or by the lagoon with traditional thatched roofs and interiors that highlight bespoke Filipino craftmanship. Sample regional cuisine in the hotel restaurant; a serene getaway.

  • Local exploring - There is lots to see on Cauayan Island; take a guided tour through the hotel for thoughtful insights during your local exploring
  • Romantic Break - Couples love the discreet private suites at this luxury island getaway; book a romantic couples' massage at the spa
  • Beach Life - Set on a beautiful bay on a paradise-like island in the Philippines, this hotel makes an idyllic beach break
  • Sights nearby - Immerse yourself in the adventures that El Nido has to offer and take in the beauty of nearby islands while island hopping
from £378 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees