Our next long-term stop is Palawan in the Philippines and we’re going to class it up a little while we look for an apartment. Here’s our research for the 30 best Palawan beach resorts if you’re looking to follow suit.
Goodbye, Chiang Mai –Hellooo, Palawan Beach Resort
After another exciting 5-6 months in Thailand with a majority of that spent living at The Nimmana in Chiang Mai, we’re in need of some beach time, an escape from Chiang Mai’s infamous burning season, and a place to hang our hat for the rest of the year and then some.
The Philippines makes obtaining back-to-back visas a whole lot easier for Mike, and since I don’t need any here it was the most logical choice for a place to kick it down a notch, longer-term.
When you’re looking to settle into a paradise island such as Palawan, it only makes sense to book one of the best beach resorts while you’re looking for a more long-term apartment, am I right?
While I was searching for a place to stay, I was surprised to learn there’s not that many resorts in Palawan yet. Considering its size and growing popularity, I expected to see much more on each corner of the map.
Don’t get me wrong. The island has definitely received plenty of attention from tourists in the last few years for its popular Palawan beach resorts. But compared to other beaches and islands in the Philippines, this place remains pristine with much less commercialisation than you might expect from a giant paradise.
Simply put, Palawan beach resorts are worth dropping what you’re doing and booking a plane ticket before it gets infested by tourists. Bohol suffered that fate, and now it’s closed for the foreseeable future.
Cheap as f*ck
Going back to my search, what surprised me even more was the fact that the accommodations were so cheap!
For as low as $5, you get to have your own slice of paradise. Truth! No need to pay an arm and a leg just to enjoy a few days of peace, relaxation in front of the frikking beach!
Also, with Boracay closing down for 6 months and Siargao currently crowded with tourists because of one movie, Palawan serves as the perfect go-to spot for any escapist traveler.
With that in mind, I thought I’d share with you what I discovered during my search. Listed further below are the top 30 Palawan beach resorts under $60, located right in front of a beach –but first, I’d like to share tips for each location as well as some practical advice to help make your stay at a resort in Palawan more comfortable.
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Visit Lonely PlanetLocation Considerations
When you’re booking any of the Palawan beach resorts reviewed on this list or those you find elsewhere, it’s important to consider the following for each area of the island.
Puerto Princessa
Puerto Princesa is Palawan’s capital city and is the most highly urbanized city in the province. It’s also where the only international airport is located. Its city center has a growing food and nightlight scene not to mention, it’s home to the famous Underground River. Stay for a few days before exploring other parts of the province.
Coron
Coron rivals El Nido in terms of natural biodiversity. Here, you can explore hidden lakes and lagoons, witness colorful marine life, and even get a chance to encounter WWII Japanese shipwrecks.
San Vicente
Located between Puerto Princesa and El Nido is San Vicente. It’s known for its 14-kilometer long beach –the longest in the Philippines. Here, you can scuba dive, snorkel, kayak. You can also explore its vast mangroves and jungles.
El Nido
El NIdo is the primary attraction of Palawan. It’s known for its picturesque karst formations, pristine islands, and rich marine biodiversity. Stay at a resort in Palawan here if you’d like to quickly jump start your island hopping adventure.
Taytay
Taytay is a port town where most travelers depart/arrive from/for El Nido resorts. It’s main highlight is the old Spanish fort, one of the best preserved Spanish fortresses in the country. If you choose to stay at a beach resort in Palawan here, you can discover offshore islands, explore waterfalls, and visit the extinct volcano Mt. Capoas.
Port Barton
Port Barton is located in San Vicente with a vibe that’s comparable to El Nido –quiet and relaxed. You can take a stroll on the beach here and possibly enjoy it all to yourself. It’s also a great starting point for boat tours as prices here tend to be cheaper compared to El Nido resorts.
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Learn MorePractical Tips for Palawan Travel
1. Some Palawan resorts can be difficult to access. When booking your accommodation make sure to communicate with management directly so they can hire transport for you. You can also rent a motorbike or hire public transport (van/jeepney/multicab) to take you to the beach resort in Palawan.
2. If you’re wondering why some resorts in Palawan are so dirt-cheap, it’s because you’re either paying for a tent or bedspace. If camping or sharing rooms is not your thing, don’t worry. For a few dollars, you can get an upgrade and enjoy more comfortable accommodations.
3. Learn basic first-aid and have an emergency kit ready. Certain resorts in Palawan are located far away from the hospital and if you get injured, you can’t expect to get immediate medical attention. It’s better to be prepared.
4. Be sure to wear insect repellent (preferably one with strong concentration of deet) especially if you plan to stay in a resort in Palawan that’s located within a jungle or any other remote area. Yeah, deet isn’t healthy, but dengue is worse.
Some parts of the island have risk of malaria or dengue during rainy season. Not to mention those pesky sandflies which can leave large, itchy red bumps on your skin.
5. Keep yourself hydrated and your skin protected from the sun. Popular activities in the island leave you exposed to sun for hours. It can be easy to get carried away and forget that’s you’re actually burning!
6. When appropriate, wear aqua socks and rash guard when swimming at the beach. It keeps you safe from sharp rocks and broken corals as well as box jellyfish and stone fishes which can be very fatal.
7. Some beach resorts in Palawan, especially those in El Nido, may not have Wi-Fi or regular electricity. This is because some areas don’t have enough power supply.
Most Palawan resorts will let you know when their electricity hours are and if they have a generator or solar power. If not, ask anyway so you are better prepared.
You can also check out this Facebook page for information on the daily rotation brownout schedule. If you really can’t afford to go offline, ask your favourite beach resort in Palawan if they have a generator in advance.
8. Bring as much cash as you can if you plan to travel outside of Puerto Princesa. Other areas outside the city don’t have that many ATMs yet. You’re better off getting cash while in Manila or Puerto Princessa before heading north of the island. You can also use your credit card but be careful as some establishments don’t accept credit card or they charge you a processing fee.
9. Philippines is a predominantly Catholic country and it’s frowned upon to overly flaunt your body in public places unless it’s the beach.
10. Haggling for cheaper prices on accommodation won’t get you very far. The money you’re spending while on the island will help support the livelihood of locals, and clean it up so it doesn’t wind up like Bohol.
Palawan Beach Resorts for Under $60
All beach resorts in Palawan here are listed by price (lowest to highest) and have rooms or bungalows facing right onto the beach;
Bambua Nature Cottages ($5 – $50)
Location: Puerto Princesa, Palawan
Perks of Bambua Nature Cottages:
- Rooms feature native handcrafted arts
- Features an extensive garden landscape with different flowers, butterflies, and birds flying around
- Near a mangrove where you can do ziplining
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Ursula Beach Club ($8 – $57)
Location:Â El Nido, Palawan
Perks of Ursula Beach Club:
- Private feel in the as there are only three rooms in total
- Great attention to detail in this Palawan beach resort
- Great food and cocktails at the restaurant and bear
Check pricing on Agoda
Bayog Beach Campsite ($8 -$49)
Location:Â El Nido, Palawan
Perks of Bayog Beach Campsite:
- A peaceful resort and camp site in Palawan with nice and clean cabins
- Stunning beach view and serene ambiance
- Very accommodating staff
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Eda Beach Campsite ($10 -$14)
Location:Â El Nido, Palawan
Perks of Eda Beach Campsite:
- One of the best resorts in Palawan to escape the hustle and bustle of the town and just hear the sound of waves and nature
- Has a very hospitable host, Randy, who takes care of everything, even cook your meals for you and organize your day trips
- Provides genuine Filipino hospitality and is far away from tourist traps
More photos and information can be found on Booking.com
El Gordo’s Action Adventure’s Guesthouse ($10 -$49)
Location:Â El Nido, Palawan
Perks of El Gordo’s Action Adventure’s Guesthouse:
- Has a large open-deck overlooking El Nido Bay
- Offers adventure activities including kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, boating, paddling, and more
- Meals are exceptional and full of variety
More photos and information can be found on Booking.com
Floresita’s Beach Resort ($10 -$49)
Location:Â El Nido, Palawan
Perks of Floresita’s Beach Resort:
- A relaxing resort in Palawan with friendly and accommodating staff
- Lots of cushioned beds and hammocks to lounge in
- Close to the diving center
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Erlittop Garden ($10 -$29)
Location:Â El Nido, Palawan
Perks of Erlittop Garden:
- A relaxing resort with friendly and accommodating staff
- Lots of cushioned beds and hammocks to relax in
- Close to the diving center
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Kaibigan Soul Camp ($12 -$58)
Location: Puerto Princesa, Palawan
Perks of Kaibigan Soul Camp:
- Great food made with local fresh ingredients
- Beautiful huts made with local materials
- One of the best resorts in Palawan offering plenty of great activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, yoga, boat trips, and more
Check pricing on Agoda
Tapik Beach Park Guest House ($13 -$51)
Location: El Nido, Palawan
Perks of Tapik Beach Park Guest House:
- Quiet and peaceful setting with friendly staff
- Features authentic beach huts facing the unspoilt beach
- Staff can arrange massage as well as mani/pedi
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Where 2 Next ($13 -$36)
Location:Â El Nido, Palawan
Perks of Where 2 Next:
- One of the few budget Palawan resorts offering vegetarian and vegan options
- Less touristy area where you can relax and enjoy some quiet time
- Stunning beaches nearby (Calitang and Nacpan)
More photos and information can be found on Booking.com
Casa Rosa Taytay ($14 -$57)
Location:Â Taytay, Palawan
Perks of Casa Rosa Taytay:
- Situated on top of a hill with panoramic views of the fort and Taytay Bay
- Has a restaurant with great food and a beautiful view
- Plenty of entertainment amenities like books, magazines, and board games
Check pricing on Agoda
Palawan Mangrove Resort ($19)
Location: Puerto Princesa, Palawan
Perks of Palawan Mangrove Resort:
- Clean and well-maintained rooms
- Amazing scenery with lots of butterflies around the garden maze by the river
- Lots of activities to do as there’s a river and waterfall nearby
Check pricing on Agoda
Deep Moon Resort ($20 -$49)
Location: San Vicente, Palawan
Perks of Deep Moon Resort:
- Plenty of space to lounge in front of the beach
- Restaurant offers many healthy breakfast options and the beach side bar offers great drinks and snacks
- Breathtaking views in each room, even those that don’t face the beach
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Villa Leonora Beach Resort ($20 -$34)
Location: Puerto Princesa, Palawan
Perks of Villa Leonora Beach Resort:
- Beautiful grounds with a chill and relaxed atmosphere
- Super friendly staff who will cater to your needs
- Owner can arrange various activities for you
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Puerto Pension Inn ($22 -$40)
Location: Puerto Princesa, Palawan
Perks of Puerto Pension Inn:
- Clean and beautifully decorated rooms
- Just a few minutes away from the baywalk area
- Amazing view of the bay from the restaurant on the top floor
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Kahamut-an Beach and Cottages ($24 -$31)
Location: Puerto Princesa, Palawan
Perks of Kahamut-an Beach and Cottages:
- This beach resort in Palawan is located in the middle of nature, perfect for escaping the loud touristy areas
- Plenty of activities to do nearby like ziplining, touring the underground river, boat tour, snorkeling, motorbike rides
- Amazing home-cooked meals
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Marina de Bay ($24 -$31)
Location: Puerto Princesa, Palawan
Perks of Marina de Bay:
- One of the best resorts in Palawan if you’re looking for complete amenities including restaurant, massage, transport, housekeeping, swimming pool, and tours
- Offers a nice view of the lagoon, mangrove, and sunset
- Very nice and courteous staff
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Jungle Beach Resort ($24 -$60)
Location: Puerto Princesa, Palawan
Perks of Jungle Beach Resort:
- Kitchen can serve vegetarian meals
- Very friendly and helpful staff; Owner can even arrange a bonfire at night
- Beachfront is perfect for snorkeling
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Makulay Lodge and Villa ($26 -$55)
Location: El Nido, Palawan
Perks of Makulay Lodge and Villa:
- Lounge/restaurant area serves great food (French food) and is perfect spot for relaxation
- The location is away from the busy and noisy part of town
- Very clean, comfortable, and beautiful cottages
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Mermaid Paradises Jr Resort ($27 -$54)
Location: San Vicente, Palawan
Perks of Mermaid Paradises Jr Resort:
- A secluded resort far from the hustle of backpacking towns
- Offers fantastic views of the beach
- Have a private beach all to yourself as the resort is accessible only by boat
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Telesflora Beach Cottages ($27)
Location: El Nido, Palawan
Perks of Telesflora Beach Cottages:
- Quiet location but just a few minutes away from the town center
- Good selection of breakfast choices
- Beachfront offers perfect view of the sunset
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Victoria Beach House ($27 -$58)
Location: San Vicente, Palawan
Perks of Victoria Beach House:
- Homey, clean accommodations
- Peaceful beachfront
- Kind and accommodating staff
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Greenviews Resort Corong-Corong ($26 -$58)
Location: El Nido, Palawan
Perks of Greenviews Resort Corong-Corong:
- Features native style cottages and a native-style restaurant
- Clean and spacious bungalows with access to lush gardens
- There’s nightly barbecue and live music from 6:30 until 10PM
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Bulskamp Inn ($27 -$60)
Location: El Nido, Palawan
Perks of Bulskamp Inn:
- Excellent breakfast with coffee or tea for $3
- Offers a quiet and relaxing vibe as it’s located on a small alley, but is close to the main boulevard
- Has generators  in case of regular power cuts in El Nido
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Ausan Beach Front Cottages ($28 -$44)
Location: San Vicente, Palawan
Perks of Ausan Beach Front Cottages:
- Amazing views of the sea and sunset from the terrace/balcony,
- Located at Port Barton which is starting point for many white islands around San Vicente
- Very quiet environment
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Peace and Love Resort ($31 -$53)
Location: San Vicente, Palawan
Perks of Peace and Love Resort:
- Very delicious food
- Great view of the town, swimming pool, and harbour
- Just a few minutes away from the spectacular 14-km long beach
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Sunset Colors ($37 -$50)
Location: San Vicente, Palawan
Perks of Sunset Colors:
- Restaurant serves delicious brownies and other desserts
- Free use of kayaks and paddle boards
- Situated near a coconut plantation isolated from loud neighborhoods
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Sunlight Guest Hotel ($38 -$58)
Location: Coron, Busuanga Island, Palawan
Perks of Sunlight Guest Hotel:
- Located near the public market
- Well-kept and carpeted rooms
- Nice balcony overlooking the bay
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Caalan Beach Resort ($47 -$58)
Location: El Nido, Palawan
Perks of Caalan Beach Resort:
- Located just 15 minutes away from downtown El Nido
- Offers island hopping tours that leave right in front of the resort
- Well-equipped with facilities and very hospitable staff (can speak English, Tagalog, Japanese, and Korean)
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
Duli Beach Resort ($48)
Location: El Nido, Palawan
Perks of Duli Beach Resort:
- Far away from anywhere else which means you get to enjoy an unspoilt beach
- Clean and comfortable accommodations
- Lots of activities you can do in this Palawan beach resort like surfing, snorkeling, card and board games
More photos and information can be found on Agoda
In Summary
I hope you enjoyed looking through this list of beachside Palawan resorts as I did writing it!
Have you decided which of the Palawan beach resorts you’ll be staying at? Found one with a vibe that best fits yours? Please share your thoughts in the comments.
