Filipina Singles
Dating in Palawan: A Guide to Puerto Princesa, El Nido and Coron
Updated October 2026 · A guide from the Filipina Singles team
Palawan is a long, narrow island of limestone cliffs, lagoons and white beaches, and it's regularly named among the most beautiful places in the Philippines. There are three main destinations: Puerto Princesa, the capital, with its famous Underground River; El Nido, with its dramatic island scenery; and Coron, known for its lakes and shipwreck diving. They are far apart, so it's best to choose one or two rather than trying to see everything.
Getting there and between places
Puerto Princesa, El Nido and Coron each have their own airport with flights from Manila and, in some cases, Cebu. By road, the trip between Puerto Princesa and El Nido by van typically takes around five to six hours. Many visitors fly into one town and out of another.
Where to stay
- Puerto Princesa: a real city, with restaurants, the Baywalk and day trips to the Underground River and Honda Bay.
- El Nido: a busy little town that is the base for island-hopping tours, with quieter beaches such as Nacpan a short ride away.
- Coron: a town that is the base for lake and wreck trips, with most beaches reached by boat.
Many hotels have visitor policies, so check before you plan to have anyone visit your room.
Getting around
Tricycles are the main way to get around the towns. For day trips, you'll usually join a boat tour or hire a driver. Book the Underground River in advance, since permits are limited.
Easy date ideas
- The Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- The Baywalk in Puerto Princesa for a seafood dinner at sunset.
- Island hopping in El Nido, with lagoons and hidden beaches. The tours are numbered A, B, C and D.
- Nacpan Beach for a long, quiet beach day and sunset.
- Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon in Coron, both reached by boat.
- Mount Tapyas in Coron for sunset views, which means climbing a few hundred steps.
Language and culture
Many people in Palawan speak Cuyonon, and Filipino and English are widely understood, especially in the tourism areas. Salamat (thank you) is always welcome.
When to visit
The drier months, roughly November to May, are the best time. The rest of the year is wetter, and rough seas can cancel boat tours, so keep your plans flexible.
Staying safe
- Choose licensed boat operators with life jackets, and be ready for tours to be canceled in rough weather.
- Agree on prices for tours and transport in advance, and be wary of touts.
- Medical services are limited outside Puerto Princesa, so travel insurance is a good idea.
- Watch your phone and bag in busy places.
- Meet in a public place the first time, and tell someone where you're going.
- Never send money before you've met someone in person, whatever the reason. Read our guide on spotting dating scams.
Palawan is a tourism destination, so many of the people you meet will work in the tourism industry. That's perfectly normal, but it's another reason to take your time and stay alert. Planning your first trip? Our guide to planning your first visit covers entry requirements, safety and meeting her family, and our guide to dating a Filipina covers what matters to many Filipinas.