Palawan Family Travel Guide 2025
Everything families need to know for a successful trip to Palawan with kids.
Palawan is a pristine island province in the western Philippines, often called the Philippines' Last Frontier for its untouched natural beauty. Home to the UNESCO-listed Puerto Princesa Subterranean River and the stunning limestone karst landscapes of El Nido and Coron, Palawan offers some of Southeast Asia's most dramatic scenery. Its turquoise lagoons, vibrant coral reefs, and white-sand beaches consistently earn it recognition as one of the world's best island destinations.
Top Family Activities
The best experiences for families in Palawan.
Honda Bay Island Hopping
Visit multiple islands in the calm, sheltered waters of Honda Bay including Starfish Island where children can touch starfish in shallow water, Luli Island, and Pandan Island with its beautiful beach and snorkeling reef.
Puerto Princesa Underground River Boat Tour
A UNESCO World Heritage experience that captivates all ages — the boat tour through 1.5km of dramatic stalactite formations is genuinely awe-inspiring. Children particularly love the bats and the cave atmosphere.
Calauit Safari Park Giraffe Feeding
The unforgettable experience of hand-feeding giraffes on a tropical island — Africa meets the Philippines. The safari park also has zebras, impalas, and Philippine wildlife. Children who have never seen these animals in person are completely thrilled.
Palawan Wildlife Rescue Center
Meet rescued Palawan wildlife including Philippine crocodiles, Palawan bearcats (binturong), civets, hornbills, and peacock-pheasants. An educational and accessible wildlife experience ideal for younger children.
Iwahig Firefly River Evening Tour
A magical boat tour after dark on the Iwahig River where millions of synchronized fireflies light up the mangrove trees — like nature's own Christmas light display. Children are absolutely enchanted.
El Nido Tour A Island Hopping
The classic El Nido island-hopping experience visiting the Big and Small Lagoons, Seven Commandos Beach, and snorkeling sites. Suitable for older children who are comfortable on boats and can snorkel in calm water.
Nacpan Beach Day
A full day at Nacpan's calm, shallow beach — perfect for building sandcastles, collecting shells, and swimming in warm, clear water away from boat traffic. Bring everything you need as facilities are minimal.
Maquinit Hot Springs Soak
Soaking in the naturally heated saltwater pools of Maquinit Hot Springs on Coron Island with views over the sea. The warm (39°C), mineral-rich water is soothing after a day of activity — enjoyed by all ages.
Beginner Snorkeling at Siete Pecados
Siete Pecados Marine Park near Coron has shallow, protected reef sites ideal for learning to snorkel for the first time. Dive shops in Coron offer snorkel tuition for beginners including children aged 12+.
Activities by Age Group
Find activities suited to your children's ages.
👶 Toddlers (0-3)
- Parks with shaded play areas
- Short, stroller-friendly walks
- Swimming pools at family hotels
- Animal encounters
🧒 Young Kids (4-7)
- Interactive museums
- Easy outdoor adventures
- Cultural shows and performances
- Market explorations
🧑 Older Kids (8-12)
- Historical site tours
- Adventure activities
- Cooking classes for kids
- Nature excursions
👦 Teens (13+)
- Adventure sports
- Photography walks
- Cultural immersion experiences
- Food tours
Palawan Family Guide
Family itineraries, packing checklists, and activity planning tips.
Family-Friendly Accommodations
Where to stay with kids.
Dos Palmas Island Resort and Spa
An island resort in Honda Bay with beach access, swimming pool, and organized activities for families. The all-inclusive package is particularly good value for families.
Princesa Garden Island Resort and Spa
A beachfront resort in Puerto Princesa with a large garden and pool, close to city attractions and the airport.
Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort
Eco-certified resort near the Underground River in Sabang, ideal for families wanting the underground river experience.
El Nido Cove Resort
A pleasant mid-range resort on Corong-Corong Beach with calm swimming waters and easy access to El Nido tours.
Club Paradise Coron
Island resort on Dimakya Island with exceptional snorkeling and resident dolphins — a magical family experience.
What to Look For
- Family rooms or connecting rooms
- Swimming pool (supervised)
- Restaurant with kids' menu
- Babysitting/kids' club services
- Safe, enclosed outdoor spaces
- Proximity to attractions
Kid-Friendly Dining
Where to eat with children.
Most Filipino restaurants welcome children warmly and go out of their way to accommodate families
High chairs are available at mid-range and above restaurants but not usually at local eateries
Kids menus are rare in Palawan — rice, grilled chicken, and egg dishes are universally available and child-friendly
Fresh fruit shakes (mango, buko, dalandan) are nutritious, safe, and universally loved by children
The Puerto Princesa Baywalk Night Market has child-friendly options like corn on the cob, grilled chicken, and fruit
Family Travel Tips
Make traveling with kids easier.
The best family base in Palawan is Puerto Princesa — best infrastructure, hospital access, and calm Honda Bay
Book underground river permits well in advance — the experience is unmissable for children of all ages
Pack children's reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+) from home — specialty products cost significantly more in Palawan
Schedule activities for mornings when children are fresh and heat is manageable
Most boat tours last 6-8 hours — bring children's seasickness medication and snacks
El Nido is best for families with children over 8; younger children are better served by Honda Bay
Bring children's sandals with back straps for rocky beach walking and coral reef areas
Health & Safety
- Check recommended vaccinations for children
- Pack enough prescription medications
- Bring sun protection and stay hydrated
- Research nearest hospitals/clinics
- Get travel insurance covering the whole family
Plan Your Family Adventure
Get our complete family travel guide with kid-friendly itineraries, packing lists, and activity recommendations.