1. Bring Cash, Lots of It
ATMs exist in Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron, but they frequently run out of cash, have low withdrawal limits (P10,000-20,000), and charge P250 fees. Bring enough pesos from Manila for your entire trip. Credit cards are accepted at some upscale restaurants and hotels but nowhere else.
2. Travel Times Are Real
When we say "5-6 hours by van from Puerto Princesa to El Nido," we mean it. The roads are much better than they used to be, but this is still a long ride. Don't plan activities for the same day you arrive. Book a morning van to arrive with daylight.
3. The Environmental Fees Add Up
El Nido charges an Environmental Fee (P200) and Eco-Tourism Development Fee (P200), both valid for 10 days. Coron charges similar fees at each location. Budget an extra P500-1,000 for fees beyond the tour prices.
4. Reef-Safe Sunscreen Matters
The coral reefs are why you're here. Regular sunscreen kills coral. Buy reef-safe sunscreen before you arrive (hard to find locally) or use rash guards instead. Some tour operators are starting to enforce this.
5. The Best Spots Are Not on Instagram
The most hyped spots (Big Lagoon, Kayangan Lake) are amazing but crowded. The real magic is at places like Port Barton, Duli Beach, Siete Pecados at sunrise, or the far end of Nacpan Beach. Ask locals for recommendations.
6. Motorbike Rental Changes Everything
A scooter rental (P500-700/day) gives you freedom to explore at your own pace. Nacpan Beach, Duli Beach, Las Cabanas, Nagtabon Beach: all accessible by motorbike and much better without tricycle negotiation.
7. Pack Light, Pack Smart
You'll be transferring between vans, boats, and tricycles constantly. A backpack beats a suitcase. Essentials: reef shoes (the rocks are sharp), dry bag for boat trips, underwater camera, mosquito repellent, headlamp for power outages.
8. Boat Tours Are Not Created Equal
The standard group tours hit the same spots in the same order. For a better experience: ask for a private boat (split the cost with other travelers), request different timing (first to the lagoons, last to the beaches), or choose less popular tours (C and D over A).
9. The Food Scene Is Better Than Expected
El Nido's restaurant scene has exploded in recent years. You can find everything from P100 local eateries to P500+ international cuisine. Don't miss: fresh calamansi juice, kinilaw (Filipino ceviche), and grilled seafood from the night market.
10. Respect the Environment
Palawan's beauty is fragile. Don't touch coral, don't chase marine life, don't leave trash on beaches, and support operators who practice responsible tourism. The last frontier won't stay pristine forever without our help.