Hey guys! Planning a trip to the Philippines? You absolutely have to include Ipalawan on your itinerary. Seriously, this island province is like a slice of paradise, boasting some of the most breathtaking landscapes you'll ever lay eyes on. Think turquoise waters, stunning lagoons, hidden beaches, and lush jungles. I'm so excited to share with you the top things to do in Ipalawan, making sure your adventure is unforgettable. So, grab a coffee, sit back, and let's dive into the magic of Ipalawan!

Explore El Nido's Island Hopping Tours

If there's one thing you absolutely cannot miss in Ipalawan, it's island hopping in El Nido. Trust me on this one! El Nido is famous for its incredible limestone cliffs, secret lagoons, and vibrant marine life. The best way to experience all this is by joining one of the island hopping tours, creatively named Tours A, B, C, and D. Each tour offers a unique itinerary, highlighting different spots around Bacuit Bay.

• Tour A typically includes stops at the Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Payong-Payong Beach, and the Big Lagoon. The Secret Lagoon is a hidden gem you enter through a small opening in the rocks – super cool! Shimizu Island is perfect for snorkeling, with crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful fish. And the Big Lagoon? Oh, it's just majestic. Kayaking through its calm, turquoise waters is an experience you won't forget.
• Tour B usually takes you to Snake Island (named for its snaking sandbar), Pinagbuyutan Island, Entalula Beach, and Cudugnon Cave. Snake Island is a must-see for its unique sandbar where you can walk from one island to another during low tide. Pinagbuyutan Island offers stunning views and fewer crowds, making it a great spot for relaxation.
• Tour C is often considered the most adventurous, featuring Helicopter Island (which, you guessed it, looks like a helicopter from afar), Matinloc Shrine, Secret Beach, Star Beach, and Hidden Beach. Each spot offers something unique, from snorkeling to exploring hidden coves.
• Tour D, while less common, can provide a more relaxed experience, often visiting Cadlao Lagoon, Pasandigan Beach, and Paradise Beach.

No matter which tour you choose, you're guaranteed a day filled with awe-inspiring scenery, fantastic snorkeling opportunities, and memories that will last a lifetime. The tours usually include lunch, and you'll get to enjoy a delicious Filipino-style meal on a beautiful beach. Don't forget your sunscreen, swimwear, and a sense of adventure!

Submerge Yourself in the Beauty of the Puerto Princesa Underground River

The Puerto Princesa Underground River is not just any river; it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of Nature. Imagine navigating through a subterranean river that winds its way beneath towering limestone karsts. It's an amazing experience. The guided boat tour takes you deep into the cave system, where you'll witness stunning stalactites and stalagmites formed over thousands of years. Keep an eye out for the unique rock formations that resemble familiar shapes – you might spot a dinosaur, a cathedral, or even the Virgin Mary, according to your guide!

The biodiversity within the cave is remarkable. The ecosystem is home to various species of bats, snakes, and other creatures that have adapted to the darkness. Your guide will point out the different formations and explain the geological processes that shaped the cave over millennia. The sheer scale and natural beauty of the Underground River are truly humbling.

Getting to the Underground River involves a scenic journey from Puerto Princesa City. You'll take a van or bus to Sabang, a small coastal town. From Sabang, you'll board a boat that will take you to the entrance of the Underground River. The boat ride itself is an adventure, offering stunning views of the coastline and the lush greenery of the surrounding landscape. Remember to book your tour in advance, as permits are required to enter the Underground River, and slots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.

Relax on the Pristine Beaches of Nacpan and Calitang Twin Beach

Looking for some serious beach time? Head to Nacpan and Calitang Twin Beach. These beaches are about an hour's drive north of El Nido town, but trust me, the journey is totally worth it. Nacpan Beach is a long stretch of golden sand fringed with palm trees, offering plenty of space to spread out and soak up the sun. The waves here can be a bit stronger, making it a fun spot for boogie boarding or just splashing around.

Calitang Beach, on the other hand, is much calmer and more secluded. This beach is perfect for swimming and relaxing. What makes the Twin Beach special is the sandbar that connects the two beaches. You can walk along the sandbar and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline on both sides. It's a fantastic spot for taking photos and just enjoying the natural beauty of Ipalawan.

There are a few small restaurants and bars along Nacpan Beach where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a refreshing drink. The vibe here is super laid-back, and it's the perfect place to unwind after a day of island hopping or exploring. Consider renting a motorbike and driving to Nacpan Beach yourself, or you can hire a tricycle or van from El Nido. Just be prepared for a bumpy ride on the unpaved road leading to the beach.

Discover the Beauty of Coron Island

While technically a separate island group from the main island of Palawan, Coron is often included when people talk about Ipalawan because it's part of the Palawan province and equally stunning. Coron is renowned for its World War II shipwrecks, making it a diver's paradise. But even if you're not a diver, there's plenty to see and do in Coron.

Kayangan Lake is one of the most iconic spots in Coron. Often called the cleanest lake in the Philippines, its crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The view from the top of the hill overlooking the lake is breathtaking – definitely Instagram-worthy! Another must-visit spot is Barracuda Lake, known for its thermoclines and unique underwater landscape.

For those interested in diving, the Japanese shipwrecks in Coron Bay offer a unique and unforgettable experience. These wrecks are home to a variety of marine life, and exploring them is like stepping back in time. If you're not a certified diver, you can still enjoy snorkeling around the wrecks or take a beginner's diving course.

Coron town is a bustling hub with plenty of restaurants, shops, and accommodations. You can easily arrange island hopping tours and diving trips from Coron town. Don't forget to visit Maquinit Hot Springs, a natural saltwater hot spring where you can relax and unwind after a day of exploring. Getting to Coron is easy, with daily flights from Manila and other major cities in the Philippines.

Experience the Wildlife at Calauit Safari Park

For a unique experience, head to Calauit Safari Park. This wildlife sanctuary is home to a variety of animals, including giraffes, zebras, and various species of deer. The park was established in the 1970s as a response to the African wildlife crisis, and it has since become a popular tourist attraction. You can take a guided tour of the park and get up close and personal with the animals. It's an amazing opportunity to see these creatures in a natural setting.

The safari park is located on Calauit Island, which is accessible by boat from the main island of Palawan. The journey to the park is an adventure in itself, offering stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding islands. Once you arrive at the park, you'll be able to explore the different sections and learn about the animals that call it home.

In addition to the African animals, Calauit Safari Park is also home to various species of endemic Palawan wildlife, such as the Palawan bearcat and the Philippine mouse-deer. The park plays an important role in conservation efforts, and your visit helps support these initiatives. It's a great place to learn about wildlife and contribute to their protection. Remember to bring your camera, as you'll have plenty of opportunities to take photos of the animals and the beautiful scenery.

Savor the Local Cuisine

No trip to Ipalawan is complete without savoring the local cuisine. Palawan is known for its fresh seafood, and you'll find plenty of restaurants serving up delicious dishes made with the freshest catches of the day. Some must-try dishes include kinilaw (Filipino ceviche), grilled seafood, and tamilok (woodworms), which are a local delicacy. For the adventurous eaters, tamilok is a must-try—it is usually soaked in vinegar, with onions and chili. It tastes like an oyster! Many say that you haven't experienced Palawan until you've tried tamilok.

Puerto Princesa is a great place to sample Palawan's culinary delights. Many restaurants offer traditional Filipino dishes, as well as international cuisine. In El Nido, you'll find a variety of restaurants catering to different tastes, from Italian to French to Filipino. Don't be afraid to try the street food – you'll find vendors selling everything from grilled corn to banana cue (caramelized bananas on a stick). Make sure to look for Lato, also known as sea grapes, is a type of seaweed popular in the Philippines. It's often served as a side dish or appetizer, and it has a salty and slightly sour taste.

When dining in Palawan, be sure to try the local fruits, such as mangoes, pineapples, and watermelons. These fruits are incredibly sweet and juicy, and they're the perfect way to cool off on a hot day. Don't forget to try the local beer, San Miguel, which is the perfect accompaniment to a delicious meal.

So, there you have it – a rundown of the top things to do in Ipalawan. From island hopping in El Nido to exploring the Underground River and relaxing on pristine beaches, Ipalawan offers something for everyone. So, pack your bags, book your flights, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this slice of paradise! You won't regret it!