Best Places to Snorkel in Palawan: The Ultimate List

Wondering where the best places to snorkel in Palawan are?

If you love snorkeling like I do, then Palawan is totally the place to be!

With its amazing coral reefs, super clear waters, and tons of marine life, it’s basically a snorkeling paradise.

While I was on the island, I checked out all sorts of underwater spots—from the colorful reefs in Coron to the chill lagoons in El Nido.

No matter if you’re just starting out or a pro at snorkeling, Palawan has something for everyone.

In this guide, I’m going to share my favorite snorkeling spots in Palawan so you can really enjoy your time exploring the incredible underwater world here.

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Why Snorkel in Palawan?

Palawan is often called the “last frontier” of the Philippines, and it’s easy to see why.

The waters are super clear, the coral reefs are amazing, and there’s tons of marine life, making it a must-visit spot for snorkelers from all over the world.

When I was in Palawan, I couldn’t believe how diverse the underwater scenes were—from bright coral gardens to hidden lagoons full of tropical fish and even the occasional sea turtle.

What really sets snorkeling in Palawan apart is the crystal clarity of the water—sometimes you can see down about 30 meters in certain spots—and the healthy coral ecosystems packed with all kinds of marine species.

Whether you’re swimming over colorful reefs, trying to spot rare fish, or just chilling in calm lagoons, the experience is like nothing else.

With warm waters and access all year round, Palawan delivers an underwater adventure that’s totally unforgettable.

Let’s get into the best places to snorkel in Palawan!

Best Places to Snorkel in Palawan

1. El Nido

El Nido is hands down one of the best places to snorkel in Palawan, with its amazing lagoons, super clear waters, and tons of marine life.

Whether you’re just starting out or can dive like a pro, there are endless places to see colorful fish, corals, and all sorts of awesome sea creatures.

When I was in El Nido, I got to check out some incredible underwater sights, and here are the top snorkeling adventures you won’t want to miss.

Top Snorkeling Tours

El Nido has four main island-hopping tours, each offering its own cool snorkeling spots:

• Tour A: This one’s a hit thanks to the Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon, featuring calm waters and lots of marine life—perfect for snorkeling!
• Tour B: This tour includes Shimizu Island and the Hidden Beach, where you’ll find stunning coral gardens and bright fish.
• Tour C: You’ll visit places like Hidden Beach and Matinloc Island, known for their great visibility and loads of marine life.
• Tour D: Less crowded but just as gorgeous, this tour takes you to hidden islands where the snorkeling is fantastic.

Best Snorkeling Spots

• Helicopter Island: With its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, Helicopter Island is a must for those who love exploring vibrant coral gardens.
• Shimizu Island: This small, rocky spot is surrounded by colorful reefs and is perfect for snorkeling, with a ton of fish species swimming around in clear water.
• Cadlao Lagoon: A hidden treasure, this calm lagoon offers peaceful snorkeling where you can swim alongside lush corals and see tropical fish.
• Small & Big Lagoon: Both lagoons are a snorkeler’s paradise with super clear waters, coral gardens, and the chance to swim in tranquil surroundings.

2. Coron

Coron is like a snorkeler’s paradise, combining stunning natural beauty with a rich history.

What really makes Coron stand out from other snorkeling spots in Palawan is the chance to snorkel over WWII shipwrecks—definitely an experience you won’t forget.

Throw in some colorful coral gardens and loads of marine life, and you’ve found one of the best snorkeling spots in the Philippines.

Here’s where the best places to snorkel in Palawan are, near Coron.

Best Snorkeling Spots

• Siete Pecados: This marine sanctuary is a must for snorkelers, famous for its crystal-clear waters and amazing marine life. The coral gardens here are flourishing, and you’ll see tons of tropical fish swimming around.
• Twin Lagoon: With its stunning mix of freshwater and saltwater lagoons, Twin Lagoon is known for its dramatic views and awesome snorkeling. You can swim through some narrow passageways and explore a super diverse underwater world.
• Lusong Gunboat Wreck: Coron’s WWII shipwrecks are legendary, and the Lusong Gunboat is one of the hot spots to check out. It’s a cool place where you can snorkel around the wreck, which has become home to a bunch of marine creatures.
• Coral Garden: Close to Twin Lagoon, this underwater paradise boasts vibrant and healthy coral reefs. It’s an awesome spot for snorkeling, where you’ll encounter all kinds of fish and jaw-dropping coral formations.

3. Port Barton

If you’re after a chill snorkeling spot in Palawan, you’ve got to check out Port Barton—it’s definitely one of those hidden gems.

It’s way less crowded than El Nido and Coron, but trust me, the crystal-clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and all sorts of marine life make it a top-notch place to snorkel.

I was seriously amazed at how clean and calm the underwater vibe is here.

It’s just the right spot for anyone wanting to escape the hustle and really soak up Palawan’s natural beauty at a more relaxed pace.

Best Snorkeling Spots

• Aquarium Reef: Just like its name suggests, Aquarium Reef feels like diving into a giant aquarium. With its colorful coral gardens and tons of fish, this place is perfect for snorkeling. The waters are clear, and there’s so much marine life to check out.
• Twin Reef: This spot is a favorite for snorkelers thanks to its stunning underwater views and healthy coral reefs. You’ll probably see a bunch of colorful fish, sea turtles, and some really cool rock formations down there.
• Exotic Island: If you’re looking for a tranquil island with gorgeous waters, Exotic Island is the place to be. It’s a snorkeling haven with a vibrant coral ecosystem and a mix of marine life, including little reef fish and even bigger ones like barracuda.

How to Get to Port Barton from El Nido

Getting to Port Barton from El Nido is pretty straightforward, and the trip is totally worth it for best places to snorkel in Palawan.

You’ve got two main choices:

• Van: You can hop on a van from El Nido to Port Barton, which takes about 3 to 4 hours. It’s a comfy and budget-friendly option, and there are vans running regularly throughout the day.
• Private Transport: If you prefer a bit more comfort and flexibility, you can rent a private car or van. It’ll cost a bit more, but you can go at your own speed and even make some stops along the way.
  

Port Barton might be one of Palawan’s best-kept secrets, but when you finally get there, you’ll see why it’s a snorkeling dream.

With fewer people around and awesome underwater adventures waiting for you, it’s the ideal spot to kick back and connect with nature.

4. Other Hidden Snorkeling Gems

Palawan has some of the coolest and most remote snorkeling spots in the Philippines.

While places like El Nido and Coron get a lot of attention, there are a few hidden gems that totally deserve the spotlight too.

These lesser-known spots are perfect for anyone wanting to dive into pristine reefs, see unique sea creatures, and get away from the crowds.

Here are some more of the best places to snorkel in Palawan.

Balabac Islands

Way down south in Palawan, the Balabac Islands are a slice of paradise with some of the prettiest coral reefs around.

It’s not super well-known, which makes it even better!

You’ll find clear waters, colorful coral gardens, and tons of marine life like sea turtles, manta rays, and all kinds of fish.

The Balabac Islands are ideal for those who want to snorkel in a quiet, untouched spot.

It’s definitely a hidden treasure for folks looking to experience the real Palawan, far from the tourist buzz.

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park

If you’re a big snorkeler or diver and craving something special, you’ve got to check out Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park.

This place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most diverse and well-kept coral reef systems on the planet.

You can only get there by liveaboard boats during the dive season (March to June), but it’s totally worth it.

Think amazing underwater sights with sharks, turtles, and manta rays, plus stunning coral walls and rich marine life. It might be a bit tricky to reach, but snorkeling here is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Best Places to Snorkel in Palawan: Best Time to Go

Palawan is awesome for snorkeling all year round, but the best time to dive into its colorful underwater scene really depends on the weather and water conditions.

The prime time for snorkeling is during the dry season when the waters are nice and clear, letting you soak up the amazing reefs and marine life.

Weather & Water Conditions by Season

Dry Season (December to May):

This is hands down the best time to go snorkeling in Palawan.

The weather’s warm and sunny with hardly any rain, and the water is calm and super clear.

You’ll have the best visibility during these months, which makes it perfect for checking out famous snorkeling spots like El Nido, Coron, and Port Barton.

Just keep in mind that this is also when most tourists flock to Palawan, so expect some bigger crowds, especially around holidays and busy travel times.

Rainy Season (June to November):

You can still snorkel during the rainy season, but the weather can be a bit all over the place with heavy rains and the occasional storm.

This can make the waters choppy and visibility lower, which isn’t the best for enjoying your time underwater.

On the bright side, though, fewer tourists are around during this time, so if you don’t mind the chance of rain, you can have a more chill and less crowded experience.

Avoiding Monsoon Season

If you want the best snorkeling conditions, it’s smart to steer clear of the peak monsoon season, which is usually from June to September.

During this period, strong winds and heavy rain can mess up visibility and make some areas less safe for snorkeling.

To dive into the clearest and calmest waters, try to plan your trip between December and May when the weather is a lot more stable and the snorkeling conditions are top-notch.

Overall, the best time to snorkel in Palawan is during the dry season when you’ll get amazing weather, calm waters, and great visibility—making sure you have the best underwater adventure possible!

Snorkeling Tours vs. DIY Snorkeling

When you go snorkeling in Palawan, you’ve got the choice to join a guided tour or do your own thing.

Each has its ups and downs, depending on what you’re into.

Pros and Cons of Snorkeling Tours

Joining a snorkeling tour offers several pros, including convenience, as the tour company handles everything from gear and transport to a knowledgeable guide.

Local guides know the best places to snorkel in Palawan and can share interesting facts about the marine life, while tours often provide access to remote areas that can be difficult to reach on your own, especially in places like Coron or El Nido.

Safety is another benefit, as guides are there to assist if anything arises.

However, there are some cons, such as being in a group setting with other tourists, adhering to a fixed itinerary, and the generally higher cost of tours compared to DIY snorkeling.

Best Places for Shore Snorkeling on your own:

• Siete Pecados (Coron): Shallow and perfect for chill snorkeling.
• Small Lagoon (El Nido): Super calm, clear waters with loads of marine life.
• Nacpan Beach (El Nido): Quiet and shallow, great for snorkeling on your own.
• Twin Reef (Port Barton): Easy to get to from the shore and packed with sea life.
• Cadlao Lagoon (El Nido): Clear waters, perfect for a laid-back snorkeling session.

Which to Choose?

• Tour: Awesome for beginners or anyone who likes convenience and wants to hit remote spots.
• On your own: Best for seasoned snorkelers or those who love to explore at their own pace.

Best Places to Snorkel in Palawan: Tips & Tricks

What to bring:

• Mask & Snorkel: Grab a good-fitting mask and a snorkel so you can breathe easy while you’re under the water.
• Reef-safe Sunscreen: Make sure to use eco-friendly sunscreen to protect your skin and the ocean life.
• Fins: Not a must, but they can really help you swim better and move around more easily.
• Waterproof Bag: This is perfect for keeping your stuff dry while you’re out snorkeling.

Safety Tips:

• Know the Currents: Always check the water conditions before hopping in, since some spots might have strong currents.
• Be Marine-Aware: Give marine life some space—don’t touch or mess with the coral and sea creatures.
• Stay Hydrated & Rested: Snorkeling can wear you out, so remember to take breaks and drink lots of water.
• Buddy System: If you can, snorkel with a friend for a bit of extra safety.

How to Get to Palawan & Between Destinations

How to get to Palawan:

If you want to get to Palawan, you can just hop on a flight to one of three main airports: Coron (Busuanga Airport), Puerto Princesa (Puerto Princesa International Airport), or El Nido (Lio Airport).

Most people fly in from Manila to reach these spots, and there are ferries to get you between islands like El Nido, Coron, and Puerto Princesa, but flying is way quicker and easier.

Getting Between El Nido, Coron, and Port Barton:

El Nido to Coron: Ferries and private boats are your best bets, but you can find a few flights if that’s more your style.

Coron to Port Barton: You’ll usually take a ferry to Puerto Princesa and then a van to Port Barton, which should take about 4-5 hours total.

El Nido to Port Barton: Minivans are the way to go, and you can easily book one through hotels or transport providers.

Where to Stay for the Best Snorkeling Access

El Nido:

El Nido is all about those clear blue waters and gorgeous cliffs, making it an awesome spot for snorkeling.

You can easily hop on tours like Tour A and C to check out cool places like Shimizu Island and Small Lagoon.

For a comfy stay nearby, try Spin Designer Hostel or Lio Villas.

Coron:

Coron is super famous for its WWII shipwrecks and colorful coral gardens, giving you some really cool snorkeling options at places like Siete Pecados and Twin Lagoon.

If you’re looking for a place to crash, check out Kokosnuss Garden Resort or Coron Gateway Hotel; they’re really close to the best spots.

Port Barton:

Port Barton is like a hidden treasure with its calm, shallow waters that are perfect for newbies wanting to snorkel.

You’ll find peaceful reefs like Aquarium Reef and Twin Reef to explore.

For a chill, nature-filled getaway, you might want to stay at Parrots Boutique Resort.

Extra Activities: What to Do Besides Snorkeling?

If you’re looking to shake things up in Palawan, there are tons of fun activities to go along with your snorkeling adventure.

Here’s some more ideas outside of searching for the best places to snorkel in Palawan.

Island Hopping:

Check out Palawan’s gorgeous islands with an island-hopping tour.

You can hit up El Nido’s amazing beaches and then head to the off-the-beaten-path Balabac Islands.

Hopping from one spot to another lets you chill in quiet places, swim in crystal-clear water, and take in some seriously stunning views.

If you need a hand figuring out the top things to do in El Nido, be sure to check out my favorite activities in El Nido post.

Scuba Diving:

If you want to dive even deeper into Palawan’s underwater scene, scuba diving is totally the way to go.

With famous dive spots like the WWII shipwrecks in Coron and the Tubbataha Reefs, Palawan has some of the best diving in the Philippines.

Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a pro diver, there’s something here for you.

Kayaking & Paddleboarding:

For a chill day on the water, why not rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the clear blue waters?

You can paddle through El Nido’s lagoons or take it easy in Coron’s calm bays, soaking up all that natural beauty while getting a good workout in.

These activities are great for checking things out at your own speed.

And hey, if you want a detailed guide on the best spots to hit up in Palawan, don’t forget to check out my 7-day Palawan itinerary.

It’ll help you plan an amazing adventure across this beautiful island!

Best Places to Snorkel in Palawan: FAQs

Why is Coron, Palawan the best for snorkeling?

Coron’s got some of the coolest underwater experiences around, like colorful coral gardens and old WWII shipwrecks, making it a perfect mix of history and nature in those crystal-clear waters.

Where’s the prettiest place to snorkel?

The Big Lagoon in El Nido is often dubbed one of the most beautiful snorkeling spots, with amazing limestone cliffs and clear, turquoise waters teeming with all sorts of marine life.

Why is El Nido the best snorkeling spot?

El Nido really shines with its stunning landscapes, super clear waters, and tons of marine life, making it a top-notch spot for snorkeling with its hidden lagoons, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse aquatic creatures.

Which part of Palawan is the best?

If you’re into wreck diving, Coron is the spot for you. For breathtaking lagoons and reefs, El Nido is where it’s at. But if you want a chill, more laid-back snorkeling experience, check out Port Barton.

Wrapping it up, snorkeling in Palawan has been one of the best parts of my travels.

Each location has its own vibe, with lively reefs full of marine life and tranquil, crystal-clear waters just right for a relaxing swim.

Whether you’re off to the famous lagoons in El Nido or hunting for the secret spots in Coron, you won’t run out of awesome underwater experiences.

I hope this list gets you excited to take the plunge and see the amazing sights hiding below the surface of Palawan’s waters—you definitely won’t regret it!

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