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:

• Best Resorts in Palawan
• Top Beach Resorts in Palawan

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!

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Boracay.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Philippines.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.