Visiting Palawan in the winter isn’t on most people’s bucket lists – but it should probably be on yours, say adventure experts Ever Wonder Adventure – who are already there and having too much fun for their own good.
For most people, January and February are the times when you decide between what kind of clunky heavy coat to wear and what unlucky pair of shoes to condemn to another day of browny muddy sloshiness.
But if you're reading this, you're trying to change that - and you've come to the right place, as Palawan is the place to be if you're tired of the drab Northern winters!
While your friends are angrily defrosting their windshields you'll be drinking your fifth Martini staring at the fish darting beneath your boat, trying to count the islands dotting the horizon like emeralds on a vast blue canvas and wondering if you're seeing double already (and yes, you probably are - those Martinis aren't exactly lemon tea, right?) but also yes, they actually are that many... the islands, not the Martinis... geez, I should probably put them down... the Martinis, not the islands!).
Anyways, you haven't come here to read the half-drunken musings of a guy having too much fun in one of the world's best places to be this winter - so without further ado, let's see...
There's a reason why Puerto Princesa is at the top of the list for many travelers seeking an extraordinary island experience. The capital city of Palawan is a gateway to some of the most beautiful islands in the world, and in and of itself is brimming with natural wonders.
And when it comes to island hopping, Puerto Princesa is the perfect hub to get you going places!
With so many islands to choose from, where do you start?
First, consider what you want to see and do. Are you looking to snorkel among coral reefs, lounge on secluded beaches, or explore unique geological formations? Once you have an idea of your interests, you can narrow down your options. For example:
You don't have to be busily ticking off every island on the map (this isn't your quarterly report spreadsheet). Find the ones that resonate with your spirit of adventure and have the right kind of fun!
If you're into island hopping you'll definitely enjoy a trip to Honda Bay. Here, you can (almost literally) hop from island to island, each with its unique character.
Starfish Island is strewn with (you guessed it!) countless starfish, Luli Island vanishes at high tide, and Cowrie Island offers the perfect spot for a beachside lunch. Snorkeling in these clear waters, you'll be mesmerized by the sheer diversity of corals and fish. To make the most of it, rent quality snorkeling gear or bring your own (but make sure it's quality - none of those crappy dollar store glasses that get all the water in your eyes!), and don't forget the waterproof camera!
Further north from Puerto Princesa is El Nido, a sanctuary of serene lagoons and beaches - and a perfect spot for a boat tour. Glide through the Big and Small Lagoons on a kayak, and let the tranquility wash over you. Shimmy through crevices to find Secret Beach, and marvel at the pristine beauty of hidden coves like Hidden Beach and Helicopter Island. Each stop gives you a chance to swim, snorkel, and soak in the jaw-dropping scenery. Just remember to respect the environment – take only memories, leave only footprints (but not the carbon kind!)
One of the crown jewels of Puerto Princesa is the Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.
The underground river tour takes you through a magnificent cave system, where stalactites and stalagmites make you feel like a prehistoric Mars explorer (is that even a thing? these Martinis will be the end of me, I tell you!).
To visit, you'll need to secure a permit in advance, so plan ahead. Because this tour is so popular, it's best to book with a reputable company that can handle the logistics for you.
While the popular islands get most of the attention, there's a certain charm to the road less traveled – or in this case, the seas less sailed, said sassy Sally the seashore seashell seller of Seychelles... as I dunk my fifth and last Martini for the morning, not counting the beers, or the vodkas, thank you very much!
Back to our business, Puerto Princesa has a few lesser-known islands that offer the kind of peace and privacy you're looking for - if you're like me and you enjoy sipping your stuff in pristine seclusion. One such gem is Pandan Island, not far from Honda Bay. It's often quieter than its more famous neighbors, which means it's an ideal spot for a leisurely day of casual sunbathing and snorkeling. At this time of the year you're likely to have large swaths of the beach all to yourself, so have fun!
Or better yet, why aren't you here already?
Go to https://www.everwonderadventure.com/support-us#!/Puerto-Princesa-Escapade/c/154442752 if you need more info - and discover a great way to plan your Palawan visit, 100% stress-free!
