Ipalawan Philippines: Top Things To Do & See
Hey guys! Planning a trip to the Philippines? You absolutely have to include Ipalawan on your list. Seriously, this island is a slice of paradise, and I'm here to spill the beans on all the amazing things to do in Ipalawan. From stunning beaches to incredible wildlife, get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
Explore El Nido's Breathtaking Lagoons and Islands
Okay, let's kick things off with El Nido. If you've seen those postcard-perfect images of the Philippines, chances are they were taken here. El Nido is famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear lagoons, and hidden beaches. The best way to experience it is by hopping on an island-hopping tour.
Island hopping tours are usually labeled A, B, C, and D, and each one offers a unique itinerary. Tour A typically includes the Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Seven Commandos Beach. Imagine kayaking through the Big Lagoon, surrounded by towering limestone walls – it's seriously epic! The Small Lagoon is equally magical, with its hidden entrance and tranquil waters. Shimizu Island is a great spot for snorkeling, and Seven Commandos Beach is perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun.
Tour B often features Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, Entalula Island, and the Cudugnon Cave. Snake Island gets its name from the sandbar that connects the island to the mainland, creating a snake-like shape. Pinagbuyutan Island is a true gem with its pristine beach and lush greenery. Entalula Island boasts powdery white sand and turquoise waters – a perfect place to unwind. And don't forget the Cudugnon Cave, an archaeological site with fascinating rock formations.
Tour C usually takes you to Matinloc Shrine, Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Helicopter Island, and Star Beach. Matinloc Shrine is an abandoned shrine with a stunning view of the surrounding islands. Secret Beach, accessible only by swimming through a small opening in the rocks, is a true hidden paradise. Helicopter Island, named for its unique shape, offers excellent snorkeling and swimming opportunities. And Star Beach is famous for its starfish and vibrant marine life.
Tour D typically includes Cadlao Lagoon, Paradise Beach, Pasandigan Beach, and Natnat Beach. Cadlao Lagoon is the largest lagoon in El Nido and offers a peaceful escape from the crowds. Paradise Beach is a secluded spot with crystal-clear waters and swaying palm trees. Pasandigan Beach is a local favorite, known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning sunsets. And Natnat Beach is a hidden gem with its powdery white sand and turquoise waters.
No matter which tour you choose, you're guaranteed to be blown away by the beauty of El Nido. So, grab your sunscreen, your swimsuit, and your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore this incredible corner of Ipalawan!
Dive or Snorkel in the Turquoise Waters
Speaking of turquoise waters, Ipalawan is a diver's and snorkeler's paradise. The underwater world here is teeming with life, from colorful coral reefs to fascinating fish species. Whether you're a seasoned diver or a complete beginner, there's something for everyone.
For experienced divers, there are numerous dive sites around El Nido and Coron that offer challenging and rewarding experiences. The Dimanglet Coral Gardens in El Nido are known for their vibrant coral formations and diverse marine life. The Dilumacad Tunnel, also in El Nido, is a thrilling dive through an underwater tunnel. And in Coron, you can explore the Japanese shipwrecks from World War II, a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
If you're new to diving, there are plenty of dive schools that offer introductory courses and guided dives. You can learn the basics of scuba diving and explore shallow reefs under the guidance of experienced instructors. Many resorts also offer snorkeling trips to nearby islands, where you can admire the colorful coral and fish from the surface.
Some of the best snorkeling spots in Ipalawan include Shimizu Island, Helicopter Island, and Coral Garden. These spots offer calm, clear waters and an abundance of marine life. You can rent snorkeling gear from most resorts and dive shops, or you can bring your own. Just remember to be respectful of the environment and avoid touching or disturbing the coral.
Whether you choose to dive or snorkel, exploring the underwater world of Ipalawan is an absolute must. You'll be amazed by the beauty and diversity of marine life, and you'll create memories that will last a lifetime.
Unwind on the Pristine Beaches of Ipalawan
Let's be real, no trip to Ipalawan is complete without spending some serious time on its beaches. Ipalawan boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and swaying palm trees. Whether you're looking for a lively beach with plenty of activities or a secluded cove where you can escape the crowds, Ipalawan has it all.
In El Nido, Seven Commandos Beach is a popular choice, known for its soft sand and calm waters. You can relax on the beach, swim in the sea, or grab a drink at one of the beachside bars. Nacpan Beach is another must-visit, with its long stretch of sand and stunning sunsets. You can rent a motorbike and explore the surrounding area, or you can simply relax and soak up the sun.
In Coron, Banol Beach is a small but beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters and white sand. It's a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. CYC Beach is another great option, known for its calm waters and scenic views. You can also visit Malcapuya Island, which boasts one of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines.
In Puerto Princesa, Honda Bay is a great place to go island hopping and discover hidden beaches. Nagtabon Beach is a secluded spot with stunning sunsets and a laid-back atmosphere. And Sabang Beach is the gateway to the Underground River, a must-see attraction in Ipalawan.
No matter which beach you choose, you're guaranteed to find your own little slice of paradise in Ipalawan. So, pack your swimsuit, your sunscreen, and your beach towel, and get ready to unwind on the pristine beaches of Ipalawan!
Discover the Underground River of Puerto Princesa
Okay, this is a major highlight! The Puerto Princesa Underground River is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. This incredible river flows for over 8 kilometers underground, through a network of caves and tunnels. Taking a boat tour through the Underground River is an unforgettable experience.
The tour starts with a short boat ride from Sabang Beach to the entrance of the cave. From there, you'll board a small boat and be guided through the underground river. As you glide through the darkness, you'll marvel at the amazing rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites. Your guide will point out the different formations and tell you about the history and geology of the cave.
Keep an eye out for the bats that call the cave home. There are several different species of bats living in the Underground River, and you're likely to see them flying overhead. You might also spot other wildlife, such as snakes, crabs, and fish.
The Underground River tour lasts for about 45 minutes, and it's an experience you won't soon forget. The sheer scale and beauty of the cave are truly awe-inspiring. Just remember to book your tour in advance, as permits are required and the number of visitors is limited each day.
Visiting the Underground River is a must-do when in Ipalawan. It's a chance to witness the raw power and beauty of nature, and to learn about the fascinating geology and ecology of this unique ecosystem.
Visit Coron's World War II Shipwrecks
For history buffs and diving enthusiasts, Coron offers a unique and fascinating experience: exploring the Japanese shipwrecks from World War II. In 1944, a fleet of Japanese ships was sunk by American air raids in Coron Bay, and these wrecks have become popular dive sites.
Diving the shipwrecks is an amazing experience. The wrecks are remarkably well-preserved, and they're teeming with marine life. You can explore the decks, the engine rooms, and the cargo holds of these sunken vessels. Just be aware that some of the wrecks are quite deep, so you'll need to be an experienced diver to explore them.
Even if you're not a diver, you can still appreciate the history and significance of these shipwrecks. There are several viewpoints around Coron Island that offer stunning views of Coron Bay and the surrounding islands. You can also visit the Coron War Memorial, which commemorates the lives lost during the war.
Visiting the World War II shipwrecks is a unique and unforgettable experience in Coron. It's a chance to step back in time and learn about a significant chapter in history, while also exploring the amazing underwater world.
Ipalawan is truly a gem of the Philippines, offering a diverse range of activities and experiences. From exploring stunning lagoons and diving in turquoise waters to unwinding on pristine beaches and discovering the Underground River, there's something for everyone in this tropical paradise. So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Ipalawan today and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
