Balabac Island Hopping
Explore Honda Bay in Puerto Princesa with our travel guide. Discover stunning islands, white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and island hopping.
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Discover Southern Palawan
If you're seeking a change of scenery from the more touristy northern regions of El Nido and Coron, then the southern part of Palawan offers an exciting frontier for adventurous travelers.
With its natural beauty largely untouched by development, this region of the island is a must-visit for intrepid explorers.
Boasting a rich biodiversity and a diverse array of wildlife species, the southern part of Palawan is a veritable tropical paradise. From its pristine islands to its undisturbed rainforests, this region is a true feast for the senses.
The municipalities of Aborlan, Narra, Quezon, Sofronio Española, Brooke's Point, Rizal, Bataraza, and Balabac comprise southern Palawan, offering a wide variety of destinations to explore and discover.
TRANSPORT & MOBILITY
How to Get There
By Air
There's no airport in Southern Palawan's municipalities and Puerto Princesa Airport (PPS) is the main gateway, with direct flights from Manila and Cebu via Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and AirAsia running multiple times daily.
By Sea
There are no ferry connections to Southern Palawan's municipalities, despite the region's proximity to Malaysian Borneo.
The nearest major port remains Puerto Princesa.
Getting Around
Getting around can be a bit complicated at the moment. For your trip, we recommend hiring a private vehicle to take you from one place to another, as the area is not yet used to tourism and English is not widely spoken.
Top Attractions in Southern Palawan
Tabon Caves
Considered the Cradle of Civilization in the Philippines, the Tabon Caves in Quezon are a group of caves where some of the oldest Homo sapiens sapiens fossil evidence in Southeast Asia has been found.
Onuk Island
Located in the Balabac archipelago, this small but stunning island boasts crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Mount Victoria
Standing at 1,726 meters above sea level, Mount Victoria is one of Palawan’s most scenic mountains. It’s home to a unique array of biodiversity, including some rare species of pitcher plants. The trek to the summit is a challenging but rewarding experience.
Best Time to Visit
Palawan is a beautiful year-round destination, blending natural wonders, pristine beaches, and outdoor adventure, though knowing the seasons helps you plan the ideal trip.
Dry Season (Dec - May)
December to early June, or Amihan season, brings sunny days and warm, clear weather, perfect for island hopping and outdoor activities.
Book accommodations and tours well ahead, especially since Southern Palawan has limited lodging and a real risk of getting fully booked.
Wet Season (June - Nov)
June to November, or Habagat season, brings hot, humid weather with heavy rain and strong winds, peaking in July and August. Typhoons rarely hit directly, but it's worth checking PAGASA for updates and keeping plans flexible for possible showers.
Southern Palawan's Municipalities
Balabac
The municipality of Balabac, located in the southernmost part of Palawan, remains one of the province’s best-kept secrets. Comprising of 36 islands, including the eponymous Balabac Island, the area boasts vast marine, forest, and mangrove ecosystems that have earned its recognition as a global biodiversity hotspot.
Home to a diverse array of wildlife, from colourful fish to majestic turtles, dugongs, and sawfish, Balabac’s islands offer a unique and unforgettable experience for nature lovers. Unfortunately, due to the lack of tourism infrastructure, Balabac remains one of the least-visited destinations in Palawan, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful and off-the-beaten-path experience.
Aborlan
Nestled between the Sulu Sea and the West Philippine Sea lies the idyllic rural area of Aborlan, a hidden gem that remains undiscovered by most tourists. With no major hotels in the area except for a few family-run beach resorts, Aborlan is the perfect destination for those seeking a laid-back vacation far from the crowds.
For an unforgettable cultural experience, plan your visit around the Tarek festival, where you can witness Palawan’s indigenous groups, including the Tagbanua, Batak, and Pagdiwata tribes, showcase their unique traditions and customs.
Brooke’s Point
Named after Sir James Brooke, the first white Rajah of Sarawak, the municipality of Brooke’s Point is a destination steeped in history. Legend has it that during one of his voyages, Brooke landed here and established trade with the indigenous people. Today, while its strategic location near Borneo remains, the lack of infrastructure has prevented Brooke’s Point from becoming a major trading hub.
While it may not have the white, pristine beaches that draw tourists to other parts of Palawan, Brooke’s Point has something equally valuable: a thriving agriculture industry. The municipality is renowned for its production of rice, copra, corn, and palm oil, making it a vital contributor to the region’s economy. Visitors can witness this firsthand by touring the farms and seeing the farmers at work.
Bataraza
Bataraza is a destination for adventure seekers who enjoy challenging hikes and exploring untouched nature.
Located on the southernmost tip of Palawan Island, it offers breathtaking mountain views and access to two seas, the Sulu and the South China. Mount Mantalingahan is one of the most difficult climbs in the Philippines, providing hikers with encounters with the Tau’t Bato tribe and a chance to see rare species of native plants and wildlife.
Meanwhile, Rio Tuba, one of Bataraza’s barangays, is known for its nickel mineral reserves.
Quezon
While the municipality of Quezon may lack major tourist infrastructure, it remains a fascinating destination for history and nature enthusiasts alike. At the heart of Quezon lies the Tabon Caves, where the oldest human bones in Asia were discovered alongside primitive tools and other artifacts. This site offers a unique glimpse into the lives of our ancient ancestors and their ways of living.
Aside from the Tabon Caves, Quezon is also home to a number of secluded tropical islands that are definitely worth a visit. Explore their crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and thriving marine life, and discover the unspoiled beauty of this hidden corner of Palawan.
Sofronio Española
As Palawan’s newest municipality, Sofronio Española remains largely unknown to most tourists, making it the perfect destination for adventurous travelers seeking to explore uncharted territory. Unlike other destinations that are all about sightseeing, Sofronio Española is more about the physical experience of being there.
With a plethora of pristine islands and a dozen white sandbars waiting to be explored, island hopping is a must-do activity for any visitor. From swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to trekking through lush forests and camping under the stars, Sofronio Española offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences for adventure seekers.
Narra
The municipality of Narra in Palawan is a hidden gem, treasured for its pristine natural landscapes and incredible biodiversity.
This eco-destination offers stunning mountains, exotic flora, and secluded beaches that have yet to be discovered by the masses.
Among the highlights of Narra are Mount Victoria, one of the most scenic peaks in Palawan, Rasa Island, which is home to the endangered Katala Cockatoo, and Arena Island, a nesting ground for Green and Hawksbill turtles.
Rizal
Rizal is a municipality in Palawan that is primarily known for its agriculture, with rice, coconut, corn, and fish being the major products.
However, the municipality also has a unique cultural offering in the form of the Tau’t Bato Festival, which is a vibrant celebration featuring street dancing, a float parade, and other fun activities. This festival is a wonderful opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture and learn more about the indigenous Tau’t Bato people.
Where to Stay
With few exceptions such as Crystal Paradise Resort & Winery and Arena Island in Narra, budget accommodations are the norm in the southern part of Palawan.
In Balabac, the only options available are family-run pensions or guesthouses, while other municipalities offer simple resorts or hotels.
Crystal Paradise Resort & Winery is a 3-star accommodation in the Southern part of Palawan Island. It offers a comfortable stay in a serene setting amidst the unspoiled natural beauty of Palawan.
Discover Palawan’s hidden gem – Arena Island, a serene four-hectare island that strikes the perfect balance of rustic charm and modern comforts. The Casita is Arena Island’s top accommodation, perfect for couples or small families. It features a cozy, native-themed wooden interior, an air-conditioned bedroom with a mini-bar and private bathroom.
Patawan Island Resort is a tranquil island escape located in the Balabac archipelago, at the southern tip of Palawan. Surrounded by pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, it’s the ideal destination for travelers seeking serenity, island adventures, and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
The resort offers a variety of accommodations, including standard rooms and air-conditioned glamping tents. Each tent is furnished with comfortable beds, desks, and seating areas. Selected units also feature private terraces with breathtaking sea views.
Patawan Island Resort is a tranquil island escape located in the Balabac archipelago, at the southern tip of Palawan. Surrounded by pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, it’s the ideal destination for travelers seeking serenity, island adventures, and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
The resort offers a variety of accommodations, including standard rooms and air-conditioned glamping tents. Each tent is furnished with comfortable beds, desks, and seating areas. Selected units also feature private terraces with breathtaking sea views.
8-Day Off-the-Beaten-Path South Palawan
This 8-day journey takes you far from the crowds, to some of Palawan’s most remote and untouched corners. From the private beaches of Arena Island to the archaeological wonders of Tabon Caves, the eco-lodge in Rizal and the pristine waters of Balabac, this itinerary is for travelers seeking a true off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Day 1: Arrival in Puerto Princesa – Transfer to Arena Island
Arrive at Puerto Princesa Airport, where a guide will meet you. From there, travel to Narra and take a boat ride to the peaceful and private Arena Island. Spend the rest of the day relaxing by the beach, enjoying the quiet island vibe.
Day 2: Leisure Day on Arena Island
Enjoy a full day at your own pace. Swim in the clear waters, snorkel near the shore, walk along the white sandy beach, or just relax under the sun. Optional turtle watching may also be available, depending on the season.
Day 3: Arena Island – Visit to Tabon Caves
After breakfast, head back to the mainland and travel to the town of Quezon to visit the famous Tabon Caves, known as the “Cradle of Philippine Civilization.” Explore the ancient limestone caves where early human fossils and artifacts were found.
Day 4: Tabon Caves – Transfer to Rizal (Palawan Eco Lodge)
Start the day with more exploration around Tabon or nearby sights, then continue your journey to Rizal. Enjoy scenic views along the way. Check in at the Palawan Eco Lodge and spend a quiet evening surrounded by nature.
Day 5: Leisure Day in Rizal
Take it slow and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Rizal. You can visit nearby rivers or waterfalls, take a short forest walk, or just relax at the eco-lodge. It’s a great day to connect with nature.
Day 6: Rizal – Travel to Balabac (Patawan Island)
After breakfast, drive to the southern part of Palawan and catch a boat to Balabac, a hidden paradise. Check in to your accommodation on Patawan Island, known for its crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand.
Day 7: Explore Balabac – Patawan Island
Spend the day exploring the nearby islands of Balabac. You can go island hopping to Onuk Island, Candaraman, and more—or simply enjoy swimming and snorkeling near Patawan Island. This is one of the most beautiful and untouched parts of Palawan.
Day 8: Return to Puerto Princesa
After breakfast, begin your trip back to Puerto Princesa by boat and van. You’ll arrive in the city by late afternoon or early evening, ready for your flight out or to continue your journey.
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