The Philippines is home to some of the best white sand and crystal waters. These Palawan beaches will make you want to book a flight immediately.
Most people traveling to Palawan are looking to visit El Nido. And while the famous coastal town has its own beach, it’s not even close to the most popular.
El Nido’s beach is treated at the starting and end point for the many island hopping trips (A, B and C) that reach the most beautiful areas of the island.
However, you don’t need to jump on a boat to see all the best beaches. Many can be reached by road and if you rent a scooter for the day you aren’t far from paradise.
Best Palawan Beaches
There’s no shortage of amazing beaches in Palawan, from the popular Puerto Princesa to little known Sibaltan, there’s definitely one for everyone.
These three beaches in Palawan are distinctly different, and yet the one thing they share in common is their beauty.
Nacpan Beach
Nacpan Beach is located about 17 kilometers from El Nido. This beach features a long stretch of fine, golden sand. The clear waters are perfect for swimming and relaxing. The gentle waves make it ideal for families.
Nacpan Beach has a laid-back atmosphere, making it a great spot to unwind. The beach is known for its stunning sunsets, providing a picturesque end to the day.
Amenities at Nacpan Beach include beach huts and sun loungers for rent for just a few dollars. Many places will give you a lounger if you simply get food and drink from them.
The restaurants are more like beach huts playing reggae and offering cold drinks and simple western or Filipino food.
Of course there are lots of Filipino fruit drinks and cold coconuts are surprisingly inexpensive. Don’t expect much because you don’t need much. Enjoy a simple meal while taking in the ocean views.
Nacpan has some accommodation ranging from local guesthouses and backpacker hostels to more upscale hotels. If you’re looking to stay at one beach for your trip this may be the most beautiful, albeit far from El Nido town proper.
There is no entrance fee or parking fee, which adds to its appeal for budget travelers.
Lio Beach
Lio Beach is located near the El Nido airport – as in literally next to it. Lio Beach is part of a larger development and it feels a bit like a mall complex next to a beach as it has upscale restaurants and appears to be building condos next to a hotel.
It’s a popular beach with locals because it’s free but also has great free amenities such as loungers, wifi and washrooms. It also offers various activities like kayaking, surfing and paddleboarding.
This beach has powdery white sand and calm, turquoise waters. It is a great place for sunbathing and swimming as there are many palm trees to get some shade.
Food here ranges from trendy food trucks serving tacos and kinilaw to upscale dining and prices are higher than Nacpan but still reasonable.
No entrance fee nor parking are required, making it accessible for everyone.
Vanilla Beach / Las Cabañas Beach
These two beaches are next to each other and just a short ride from El Nido. The beaches feature soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. It is perfect for swimming with shallow waters.
To visit you enter a mini outdoor mall, with the areas only McDonalds and many shops geared toward tourists to see Vanilla Beach and the beautiful surrounding limestone cliffs. It may even remind you of beaches in Hawaii.
Both beaches are lined with accommodation, restaurants and bars but there’s not a lot of shade here so remember to bring a hat.
Many people start at Vanilla Beach during the day, enjoy the amenities and some zipline from a the cliff behind the beach over the water to a neighboring islet.
And those wanting the best sunset in Palawan slowly make their way to Las Cabañas Beach.
Las Cabañas Beach Bar offers seating and sunset drinks on the beach. They also blast soothing meditation like music at sunset.
If you’re not looking for a sunset cocktail many people just walk to the beachfront beside it and sit down to enjoy the sunset show.
There is no entrance fee for Las Cabañas Beach, making it an easy choice for a day trip. Whether relaxing or exploring, this beach offers a memorable experience.