Stretching over 400 kilometers from north to south, Palawan is the Philippines’ largest province and a living testament to the phrase “nature’s masterpiece.” Lauded for its towering limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons, and biodiverse seas teeming with coral reefs, Palawan has consistently topped global “best island” lists. While many visitors know El Nido and Coron for their dramatic karst landscapes, the province as a whole brims with captivating shores—from hidden pockets of sand embraced by rocky outcrops to sprawling beaches ideal for sunset strolls.
In this guide, we’ll explore 9 of Palawan’s best beaches, covering iconic hotspots and lesser-known gems. Whether you’re an adventurer eager to kayak through emerald waters, a sun-seeker craving that perfect lounge spot, or a snorkeler ready to meet clownfish among vibrant reefs, Palawan’s coastlines deliver. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, your sense of wonder, and maybe a water camera—these beaches won’t disappoint.
1. Nacpan Beach (El Nido)
Located about 45 minutes north of El Nido town proper, Nacpan Beach presents a long sweep of golden sand, gently sloping into clear, blue-green water. Often dubbed one of the most scenic beaches in the region, it extends roughly 4 kilometers, dotted with swaying coconut palms. Despite its growing fame, Nacpan manages to maintain a laid-back vibe, with a few beach bars, modest restaurants, and small-scale accommodations sprinkled along the shore.
Sunbathers appreciate the wide, open space; surfers sometimes catch small waves on breezier days; and families or couples can unwind under rented umbrellas. If you climb the short trail to a nearby hilltop, you’ll get a panoramic view of Nacpan converging with its smaller twin, Calitang Beach, forming a mesmerizing double beach phenomenon. Renting a tricycle or motorbike from El Nido is the usual approach—just be prepared for a bumpy final stretch of road.
Activities
- Beach Walks – Nacpan’s length makes for scenic strolls, especially during sunrise or late afternoon golden hour.
- Hilltop Viewing – A short trek to the vantage point near the beach’s southern end reveals breathtaking twin beach vistas.
- Casual Dining – Savor fresh seafood, fruit shakes, and Filipino staples like adobo or sinigang at small beachside eateries.
Best For:
Families, groups, or independent travelers wanting a spacious, picture-perfect beach near El Nido’s famous island-hopping tours. Nacpan merges relaxation with an unspoiled shoreline.
2. Hidden Beach (El Nido)
Part of El Nido’s Island-Hopping Tour C, Hidden Beach lives up to its name, concealed behind jagged limestone formations that create a shallow, jade-colored lagoon. Access requires wading or swimming from the boat through a narrow passage—once inside, you’ll find a serene cove enclosed by towering cliffs draped in lush foliage. The water is typically calm and shallow, revealing patches of white sand perfect for a refreshing dip.
Despite its smaller footprint, Hidden Beach exemplifies El Nido’s karst seascape: the dramatic interplay of rock walls, turquoise water, and wild vegetation. Early tours or weekdays in the off-season might yield a more peaceful experience, as midday visits can get busy. Bring waterproof footwear if you prefer not to step on rocky patches or corals.
Activities
- Snorkeling – Peek into pockets of coral formations at the lagoon entrance for glimpses of colorful reef fish.
- Photography – Capture the otherworldly ambiance of vertical limestone faces meeting shallow, green waters.
- Lagoon Exploration – At lower tide, walk across the lagoon’s sandy bottom, noticing hidden recesses in the cliffs.
Best For:
Island-hoppers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts enthralled by karstic lagoon wonders. Hidden Beach compresses El Nido’s signature majesty into an intimate cove.
3. Marimegmeg Beach (Las Cabañas, El Nido)
Closer to El Nido town, Marimegmeg Beach—also called Las Cabañas—delivers a social, scenic atmosphere with stunning views of the Bacuit Bay islands. Known for its picture-perfect sunsets, the beach slopes gently into calm waters. Lined with casual bars and restaurants, Marimegmeg suits those seeking relaxed day-drinks, music, or a chance to chat with fellow travelers.
For the more adventurous, a zipline from a nearby hilltop whisks you over the water toward a small island (depending on tidal conditions), offering an adrenaline-pumping perspective on Bacuit Bay’s grandeur. Late afternoon is prime for capturing fiery skies or indulging in a sundowner. Access is easy—just a short tricycle ride from El Nido town proper.
Activities
- Sunset Watching – Sip a tropical cocktail and watch the sun dip behind the islets in an orange-pink cascade.
- Zipline Thrills – Glide over the shoreline for panoramic glimpses of the bay’s shimmering water.
- Dining & Drinks – Beachfront bars serve everything from Filipino dishes like sisig to Western favorites like burgers.
Best For:
Sociable travelers, couples, or backpackers wanting accessible beach time with El Nido’s iconic sunset scenes. Marimegmeg merges convenience and ambiance.
4. Port Barton’s White Beach (San Vicente)
While Port Barton (in the municipality of San Vicente) is recognized for its chill vibe and quieter island-hopping tours, a short boat ride away leads to White Beach—a broad arc of powdery sand nestled against coconut groves and serene blue waters. Less crowded than El Nido’s mainstays, this beach provides a reprieve for solitude seekers, where you can while away hours swimming, snorkeling around small coral patches, or dozing in a hammock.
Some simple huts and cottages are available for day use, and a modest entrance fee helps maintain the area. Because it’s overshadowed by El Nido and Puerto Princesa in terms of tourism, Port Barton’s beaches remain more tranquil. If you enjoy slow living, White Beach offers a slice of paradise with minimal fuss, just mild ocean breezes and the lull of gentle waves.
Activities
- Beach Lounging – Find a shaded nook under a palm, unfold a mat, and enjoy the hush of uncrowded shores.
- Snorkeling – Certain sections harbor coral heads attracting colorful reef fish—bring gear if you can.
- Hammock Time – Some huts provide hammocks for rent, perfect for reading, napping, or gazing at the horizon.
Best For:
Travelers craving a relaxed beach day away from hectic spots, families with small children, or couples seeking a quieter alternative in Palawan’s midsection.
5. Long Beach (San Vicente)
Stretching an impressive 14 kilometers, Long Beach in San Vicente claims the title of the longest white-sand beach in the Philippines. This vast shoreline is divided into multiple sections, with only sparse development here and there, giving a sense of boundless openness. You can wander for hours without encountering large crowds—a stark contrast to the busier hubs of El Nido or Coron.
Small fishing villages dot the area, and a handful of resorts, hostels, or homestays have begun to appear as San Vicente invests in tourism. The water is typically calm near the shore, though it can get deeper a short distance out. At dusk, the horizon transforms with layers of pink and orange, unencumbered by tall buildings. A motorbike or tricycle ride from San Vicente’s poblacion (town center) is usually how visitors arrive.
Activities
- Beach Hiking – With 14 km at your disposal, you can enjoy lengthy beach treks, greeting local fishermen or searching for driftwood.
- Seclusion & Reflection – The broad expanse fosters quiet reflection, yoga practice, or reading in near solitude.
- Sunset Catching – The minimalist skyline ensures panoramic sunset vistas. Pack a camera for horizon-spanning color displays.
Best For:
Backpackers, long-stay visitors, or those who adore vast, tranquil beaches with minimal tourism footprints. Long Beach channels Palawan’s unhurried charm.
6. Sabang Beach (Puerto Princesa Subterranean River)
Near the gateway to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Sabang Beach frames a unique mix of coastal enjoyment and natural wonder. Tourists visit the area primarily to explore the underground river, but Sabang’s cream-colored shore, calm waves, and mountain backdrop deserve attention, too. Modest resorts and restaurants cater to visitors, offering a comfortable place to unwind post-cave adventure.
The water can have stronger currents during certain seasons, though it’s usually safe for wading near the shore. Some travelers opt for a mangrove paddleboat tour or jungle trek in between beach relaxation sessions. If you stay overnight, sunrise reveals a serene panorama of fishing boats heading out against the silhouette of limestone peaks—a quintessential Palawan scene often overlooked by day-trippers.
Activities
- Underground River Visit – Combine Sabang with a boat trip into the subterranean cavern, marveling at stalactites and bat colonies.
- Mangrove Cruise – A guided paddleboat ride along the Sabang River introduces local flora, fauna, and conservation insights.
- Beachfront Relaxation – Enjoy a post-cave beer or halo-halo (Filipino shaved ice dessert) at a resort’s lounge chairs.
Best For:
Families, nature enthusiasts, or culture lovers pairing beach time with the iconic subterranean river. Sabang merges eco-adventures and relaxed shoreline vibes.
7. Nagtabon Beach (Puerto Princesa)
Roughly 45 minutes northwest of Puerto Princesa city, Nagtabon Beach appeals to locals and in-the-know travelers seeking a quick, scenic getaway from the urban scene. The crescent-shaped bay features light sand and moderate waves, attracting surfers in certain seasons (though it’s not as known for surfing as Siargao or Baler). The vibe is refreshingly mellow—think bamboo cottages, casual food stalls, and no large-scale resorts.
Nagtabon remains a favorite among Palawenos for weekend picnics and barbecues. If you’re game for a short hillside trek, you can climb the viewpoint above the beach for an aerial perspective capturing the turquoise waters meeting the coastline’s green ridges. By day’s end, the sunset show can be spectacular, coloring the bay with a golden sheen.
Activities
- Surfing (Seasonal) – During monsoon months, moderate waves can appear, enough for beginners or intermediate surfers.
- Scenic Overlook – A viewpoint accessible by a brief climb grants sweeping photos of Nagtabon’s gently curving shore.
- Local Food – Snack on grilled fish, fresh buko (coconut) juice, and other local treats sold by small vendors.
Best For:
City-based travelers wanting a doable day trip or weekend escapade, surfers chasing lesser-known breaks, and backpackers drawn to low-key spots over touristy beaches.
8. Malcapuya Beach (Coron)
In the Calamian archipelago north of Palawan’s mainland sits Coron, famed for its dramatic limestone islets and WWII shipwreck dive sites. A boat ride from Coron Town or neighboring islands leads to Malcapuya Beach, arguably one of the archipelago’s finest stretches of sand. Its crystal-clear water reveals reef fish swirling above vibrant corals, making Malcapuya a prime choice for swimming and snorkeling.
Though slightly overshadowed by Coron’s classic lagoon tours (like Kayangan Lake or Twin Lagoon), Malcapuya offers a calmer, more conventional beach experience. A few open huts and a small store supply refreshments, but there’s no major development. Embrace the serenity: read a book under a palm, snorkel with parrotfish, or stroll the short coastal path for vantage points over neighboring islands.
Activities
- Snorkeling – Explore the near-shore reefs, watch for clownfish, and keep an eye out for sea turtles.
- Lounge & Hammock – Some visitors bring or rent a hammock for an afternoon siesta amid sea breezes.
- Boat-Hopping – Many tours bundle Malcapuya with Banana Island or Bulog Dos for an island-hopping trifecta.
Best For:
Coron-based travelers craving pristine white sand aside from the area’s signature lakes and dive sites. Malcapuya Beach provides a classic tropical fix in the Calamians.
9. Snake Island (El Nido)
Not an actual island of snakes, but named for its S-shaped sandbar, Snake Island is a frequent stop on El Nido’s Island-Hopping Tour B. At low tide, the sinuous sandbar emerges clearly, connecting the main islet to a smaller patch of land. The shallow, luminous water on both sides fosters fantastic wading or casual snorkeling with tropical fish. For a panoramic view, visitors can climb the short trail up a limestone hill—perfect for glimpsing the winding sand from above.
Snake Island’s ephemeral nature—much of it submerged at high tide—lends an ethereal quality. Late morning or midday arrivals are common, so consider a private tour if you want quieter moments. Bring a waterproof bag for electronics, as boats might anchor a short walk from the main islet, requiring you to wade ashore.
Activities
- Sandbar Stroll – Walk along the S-curve, stopping to inspect small sea creatures in the clear shallows.
- Hilltop Viewpoint – A brief but sometimes steep path leads to elevated angles capturing the entire islet formation.
- Snorkeling – Fish often gather around the sandbar’s edges, nibbling at the seagrass—great for an easy snorkel.
Best For:
Island-hoppers who appreciate unique sand formations and short vantage climbs. Snake Island exemplifies El Nido’s lagoon-and-sandbar allure.
Conclusion
From the sun-kissed expanse of Nacpan to the mangrove-laced serenity of Port Barton and the hidden coves of Coron, Palawan remains a mosaic of seascapes that nourish both the adventurous spirit and the soul. Whether you’re weaving through limestone tunnels in El Nido’s Hidden Beach, hunting for the longest stretch of sand in San Vicente, or taking a lazy dip in Nagtabon’s moderate surf, you’ll quickly see why this archipelagic province has captivated travelers worldwide.
In showcasing these 9 best beaches in Palawan, we’ve only scratched the surface of the province’s abundant coastal riches. Each shoreline, be it the luxurious or the simple, the bustling or the hushed, carries a distinct part of Palawan’s identity—deeply tied to nature, shaped by rugged terrain, and colored by local hospitality. Take care to travel responsibly, respecting marine life and local customs. Embrace the occasional boat ride, dusty roads, or impromptu hammock naps, and you’ll uncover the essence of a place often celebrated as the Philippines’ Last Frontier—still brimming with wonders waiting to be explored.
