Nestled in the heart of the Philippines, Palawan is a mesmerizing archipelago that has earned its place as one of the world’s most beautiful travel destinations. Renowned for its pristine beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear waters, Palawan offers a slice of paradise that beckons travelers from every corner of the globe. Let’s dive into the magic of Palawan’s waters, a true wonder that captivates and enchants all who experience it.
An Aquatic Wonderland
Taken with an older camera, it still shows how amazingly clear the water can be here.
The waters of Palawan are unlike any other. Imagine wading into a sea so clear that you can see your toes, even in deeper waters. The vibrant turquoise hue is almost otherworldly, creating a stunning contrast against the powdery white sands of the islands’ beaches. The clarity of the water is so profound that it feels like stepping into a natural aquarium, where the vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs are on full display.
El Nido: The Crown Jewel
El Nido, located in the northern part of Palawan, is often hailed as the crown jewel of the archipelago. This cluster of 45 islands and islets is surrounded by some of the clearest waters you will ever encounter. The Bacuit Bay in El Nido is a treasure trove of hidden lagoons, secret beaches, and awe-inspiring underwater landscapes. Here, you can kayak through emerald waters, snorkel among schools of tropical fish, and explore the mesmerizing coral gardens that thrive beneath the surface.
We are pleased to offer private single day boat tours around El Nido.
Coron: A Diver’s Paradise
For those with a passion for diving, Coron is an underwater playground that promises unforgettable adventures. Famous for its World War II wreck diving sites, Coron offers a unique glimpse into history, all while surrounded by breathtaking marine biodiversity. The visibility in these waters is extraordinary, often exceeding 24 meters, making it a paradise for divers and snorkelers alike. Swim alongside majestic manta rays, playful sea turtles, and an array of colorful fish that call these waters home.
We also offer private single day boat tours around Coron.
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Located in the middle of the Sulu Sea, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Philippines’ most important marine sanctuaries. This remote and protected area boasts some of the most unspoiled and vibrant coral reefs in the world. The waters here are teeming with life, from large pelagic species to tiny critters, all thriving in an environment that has remained untouched by human hands. Tubbataha is a testament to the incredible beauty and diversity of Palawan’s marine ecosystems.
Adventures Above and Below the Surface
Palawan’s waters offer a plethora of activities for every type of traveler. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie seeking the thrill of windsurfing and kitesurfing, or a laid-back beach lover looking to bask in the sun, Palawan has something for everyone.
Island Hopping: A Must-Do Experience
No trip to Palawan is complete without embarking on an island-hopping adventure. Hop on a traditional Filipino outrigger boat, known as a banca, and set sail to explore the myriad of islands that dot the archipelago. Each island has its own unique charm, from hidden lagoons and secret beaches to towering limestone cliffs and lush mangrove forests. Discover secluded coves, swim in crystal-clear waters, and soak in the stunning scenery that surrounds you at every turn.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Serenity on the Water
For a more tranquil experience, rent a kayak or paddleboard and glide through Palawan’s serene waters. Paddle your way through narrow lagoons, explore hidden caves, and get up close to the vibrant marine life that thrives just beneath the surface. The calm and clear waters make for an ideal environment to explore at your own pace, offering a sense of peace and connection with nature that is truly rejuvenating.
Snorkeling and Diving: Immerse Yourself in the Underwater World
With its incredible visibility and rich marine biodiversity, snorkeling and diving in Palawan are experiences that should not be missed. Strap on your mask and fins, and plunge into an underwater wonderland where colorful coral reefs, playful fish, and fascinating marine creatures await. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-time snorkeler, the waters of Palawan offer a captivating glimpse into a vibrant and thriving underwater ecosystem.
A Journey to Remember
Palawan is more than just a destination; it’s a journey into the heart of nature’s splendor. The crystal-clear waters, teeming with life and brimming with beauty, provide an escape from the ordinary and a chance to reconnect with the natural world. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Palawan’s enchanting waters promise an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left its shores.
So pack your bags, grab your snorkel gear, and set sail for Palawan – a paradise where the waters are as clear as your dreams, and the adventures are as endless as the horizon.
Booking a tour
We offer several tours of the Palawan area, such as single day private boat tours in El Nido and Coron, private or group multiday tours between the two, boat tours in Port Barton, and further south in Balabac. Just send us a note and we’ll find the perfect package for you.
Experience the thrill of island hopping in the Philippines
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recommendsGérard Benoit2023-02-08I was looking for a personalized excursion to the beautiful bay of Bacuit. Seeing the comments, I contacted Mel. Very responsive, very efficient and perfect organization. The crew were very friendly and very helpful. And I'm not even talking about the meal on board...a marvel. In all fairness, this excursion will remain an excellent memory and I can recommend Mel and his team highly enough. A big thank-you.recommendsAndré Mardoñal2019-10-22⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The island world of Linapacan between Coron and El Nido with the clearest waters in the world is truly a dream for itself! Without a boat you won't be able to see it! But what this boat trips makes so amazing is the crew! Once you come on board they might be shy in the beginning but will make you feel welcome and home from the first moment. Not only that they are looking that you sit comfortable all the time, they will prepare fresh and delicious food what the buy from local markets. They know the best spots and most beautiful islands and will bring you to places where you get this "Robinson Cruisoe feeling". Every day you visit 3 to 5 spots for snorkeling, enjoying a beach or exploring a little island. The accommodation we had was good and simple. We slept in bungalows and tents right at the beach. Sheets and towels were always provided and sometimes towels. After a while you feel like a family on board. We loved living the boat life didn't wanna leave! If you doubt take a longer than shorter trip! For any questions please message me.recommendsSarah Uhan2019-01-31All in all it was a really great experience. It's a once in a lifetime thing to do and you won't get more authentic and basic Philippino experiences anywhere else. We were not so lucky with the wind and waves so we couldn't do all the stops we wanted to unfortunately. So be aware that especially the months from January to May can be very rough on water. But we still saw some great places Benji took us. Benji and his family was very nice and they did everything they could. The food was amazing - always freshly made in authentic Philippino style and way too much for the 2 of us. Make sure to bring enough cash - many of the islands cost extra (entrance fee) and be aware that any kind of accommodation and food (200php per meal) is not included in the boat fee. Also the deposit and commission fee for the agency are a little over the top, especially since the crew does not get any of it. The costs all in all are rather high for phillipino circumstances especially given the basicness of it all. However if you think about that all 5 boat people (in our case) live off of the boat fee alone, you spent the money willingly. Be aware though that accommodation and sanataries are very basic if even existant. So you gotta have the right mindset. Bring tissue, sanatiszer and earplugs to get some better sleep. Another feedback I have concerning the size of the boat. I don't think it is sufficient for more than 4 people. If the weather is like it was these days, you always have to sit on top and it was already a little squeezy with us 2 and 5 boat people. So I guess 4 guests can be fine but more than that won't have the space. There is different boat sizes but make sure to talk about that with Karel in advance. Other than that it was really worth it and we got to see so many great beaches and reefs which we could have never been able to visit without the tour.recommendsEric Liu2018-03-15It was scary to book a 5 day trip with no places to stay confirmed or a strong itinerary. And in the Philippines, communication is difficult. But that is part of changing mindsets to a rural island mindset. In the end, everything worked out. We had some tough moments with bugs. But we also had some amazingly beautiful secluded beaches, the best snorkeling in the world, relaxing on the beach, and freshly made food on the boat while docked at beautiful places (better than being on land). Note, we went with Benji. Recommendations: - you must get a local SIM when you arrive to make sure pickup and everything works out - some islands have bugs - use bug spray! Pros: - a fraction of the cost - away from the crowds - can customize what you want - just ask! - a truly local experience - saw a REAL rural town Cons: - locals aren't really polished tour guides - if you don't ask for it, you won't get it, need to be pretty proactive - pretty simple "activities" - no frills like bathrooms or kayaks etc.recommendsÁngela Deand2017-04-26We can't be more grateful to have had the opportunity of experience the peace in Patoyo Kitesurfing Camping! Spending two weeks in Dimancal Island, gave us the chance to experiment the rural and traditional way of life, in touch with the nature and people. We have learnt how to cook with fire, how to open a coconut and how to survive in an environment where for a time we forget about unnecessary needs, just to focus on enjoy the small details and pleasures of life. Mentioning too the amazing snorkeling and beautiful islands around this place, which make it unique and special. It is a lovely option if you are running away from tourists and overcrowded places in the Philippines. You will find yourself in the middle of virgin beaches and nature, surrounding by charming people. We will definitely come back!recommendsCaroline Danielle2017-02-13We haven't done a Tao tour, but I would suspect that this is a cheaper version of the same thing. Our boat operator (Benji) and the entire crew were were fun, friendly and made an effort to ensure we had a good time. If you get a large group of people together it can be a really inexpensive alternative to other Coron-El Nino and vice versa island hopping tours. The food was good, but more expensive than as advertised by Karl. The price quote we got was 100 php a meal, but the boat charged us 200. Since the food was good we didn't mind the extra expense, but it is important to keep in mind if you're on a budget. Definitely plan for some incidental spending. Our boat did have some mechanical issues and as a result we ended up being stuck in the same place for longer than we wanted to be. That being said, little could have been done about it and the trip was fun nonetheless.recommendsHauk Are Fjeld2017-01-01If you believe that doing the touristic tours in El Nido and going to "The hidden beach" takes you off the beaten path, you are wrong. There are lots of beautiful places in Palawan, but few of these places are without any other tourists. If you want to spend some extra effort on getting away from the tourist places, and don't mind a little "primitive" living, Island Hopping in the Philippines is definitely something you should check outrecommendsArnold Cabiguen2015-05-08The snorkeling in this area is phenomenal. Clearest waters in the world. I guess it's because there is relatively such lower tourist traffic through here, and the locals really protect the reefs!recommendsKarel Kosman2015-05-08Love it so much, just had to say it twice!
We are a family operation managing private custom boat tours in the beautiful Palawan area, and are happy to help travelers with their plans through the country, having traveled a lot of it ourselves and planning to visit it all.
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I lived in the area for a few years and the clarity of the water can be truly astounding. And if you are lucky, when night falls and the skies are clear, the glowing plankton can be out shimmering around your feet below the waves while the countless stars of the southern sky shine in all their glory from above.