Philippines Destinations: Where to Go
Four destinations, researched in depth
We cover fewer places, properly. Palawan is fully mapped: El Nido, Coron and Puerto Princesa. Cebu is the second region, and more islands are added only once they have been researched to the same standard.
The province behind El Nido, Coron and Puerto Princesa. Start here to choose which two of the three fit your trip, and how to get in since the March 2026 flight changes.
Limestone lagoons and beaches in Bacuit Bay, explored on island-hopping Tours A to D. The strongest choice for a first visit to Palawan.
Brackish lakes on Coron Island and a sunken WWII fleet, with two wrecks inside Open Water limits. Best for divers and for value.
Whale sharks, Kawasan Falls and Moalboal in the south; Bantayan and Malapascua in the north. Two very different trips from one airport.
Which destination fits your trip?
The short version, drawn from our full destination guides. Every figure here is explained and sourced on the linked page.
| El Nido | Coron | Puerto Princesa | Cebu | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Known for | Lagoons and beaches | Wreck diving and lakes | The Underground River | Whale sharks, waterfalls and island beaches |
| Airport | ENI, from Clark only | USU, from Clark or Cebu | PPS, direct from Manila | CEB (Mactan), direct from Manila and a growing list of overseas cities |
| Days needed | 5 | 3 to 4 | 2 | 3, or 5 with an island |
| Driest months | December to May, February driest | December to April, February driest | Roughly November to May | Relatively dry November to April |
| Best for | First-timers | Divers and value | A two-day stop in transit | Adventure days and easy flight access |
Getting there changed in 2026. Since 29 March 2026 neither El Nido nor Coron has a direct Manila flight; both are reached from Clark, and Coron also from Cebu. Puerto Princesa is now the only Palawan airport with direct Manila jets. Our Palawan guide explains the routes.
Combining them. El Nido and Coron make the classic ten-day Palawan trip, linked by a 3.5 to 4 hour fast ferry. Cebu is a separate region, but the Cebu to Busuanga flight (about 1h 20m) makes Coron the natural bridge between the two.
All our guides, by destination
Palawan and Puerto Princesa
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