Philippines — 9 Hotels Reviewed
Palawan isn’t a single destination so much as a string of moods: Puerto Princesa as the practical gateway, El Nido for headline-worthy limestone cliffs and lagoon tours, and Coron for shipwreck diving and emerald lakes. Where you stay shapes the trip—base yourself in El Nido town proper for walkable restaurants and island-hopping departures, shift to Lio for a more resort-polished beach scene, or choose Coron town for easy access to dive shops and boat tours. Travelers who want a softer pace often build in a night or two in Puerto Princesa, using the city as a comfortable staging point for the UNESCO-listed Underground River and inland food finds. Across the province, hotels range from private-island sanctuaries and design-led boutiques to smart stopover stays, giving Palawan an accommodation scene that’s as varied as its coastline.
Quick Answer
Palawan isn’t a single destination so much as a string of moods: Puerto Princesa as the practical gateway, El Nido for headline-worthy limestone cliffs and lagoon tours, and Coron for shipwreck diving...
9 hotels reviewed · Updated March 2026
Ranked by overall score. Updated March 2026.
El Nido town (near Corong-Corong / hillside)
Set above the bay with a strong sense of place—warm woods, local textures, and a calm, grown-up palette—this stylish boutique stay feels like a private lookout over El Nido’s famous karst seascape. Days revolve around the pool, thoughtful dining, and genuinely polished service that’s rare in town.
Bacuit Bay, El Nido (private island)
One of Palawan’s great splurge stays, Pangulasian pairs contemporary tropical villas with a pristine beach and a forested backdrop in Bacuit Bay. Expect hush-hush luxury, an excellent house reef for snorkeling, and the kind of barefoot elegance that makes island time feel effortless.
Puerto Princesa
A waterfront resort with a playful island-lagoon layout, Princesa Garden Island is built for slow days—pool hopping, spa appointments, and sunset cocktails by the water. Its signature overwater-inspired accommodations and resort-scale facilities make it a standout base for Puerto Princesa and the Underground River run.
Lio Tourism Estate, El Nido
Seda Lio nails the polished, easygoing resort formula inside the Lio Tourism Estate, with a wide beach, generous grounds, and a lively pool that anchors the social energy. It’s the smart choice for travelers who want El Nido’s scenery with smoother logistics, strong amenities, and quick airport transfers.
San Rafael, Puerto Princesa (north of city)
On a long stretch of coast south of the action, Astoria Palawan is a full-service resort designed for proper downtime—wide lawns, big pools, and breezy public spaces that invite lingering. It’s a reliable comfort play for families and groups who want beachfront breathing room and a calmer pace.
El Nido town proper (near the beach/harbor)
A modern, design-forward base in the heart of El Nido, H Hotel stands out with its vegan-friendly positioning and a rooftop scene made for sundowners over the boats and bay. Rooms lean contemporary and comfortable, with a service team that regularly earns rave reviews for warmth and efficiency.
Coron town proper (along Coron-Busuanga Road / bayside)
A sleek bayside address in Coron that pairs breezy rooms with front-row water views and a photogenic infinity pool. It’s a strong all-rounder for divers and island-hoppers—close to the port for early starts, yet comfortable enough for post-tour unwinding and spa downtime.
Puerto Princesa city center (near Robinsons Place Palawan)
Simple, dependable, and priced for practicality, Go Hotels is a good pick for quick stopovers in Puerto Princesa. Expect compact, clean rooms and an efficient setup that works well when you’re transiting to El Nido, the Underground River, or early flights.
Puerto Princesa (city area)
A leafy, low-key favorite that feels more like a tropical garden retreat than a standard city hotel, Hibiscus Garden wins on atmosphere and value. It’s an easy place to decompress between excursions, with welcoming hosts, a pleasant pool, and an unpretentious, homey vibe.
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Common Questions
Our top pick is The Funny Lion El Nido, which consistently receives outstanding reviews. We've curated 9 of the best hotels in Palawan across all price ranges, from budget guesthouses to five-star properties. Each has been selected for quality, location, and value.
Shoulder season — typically spring (March–May) and early autumn (September–October) — offers the best balance of good weather, lower hotel rates, and manageable crowds. Peak season brings the most vibrant atmosphere but also the highest prices. Check local festivals and events as these can both enhance and complicate your visit.
Budget options start from around $60–100/night, while mid-range hotels run $120–250/night. Luxury five-star hotels start from $300/night and can exceed $1,000 for top suites. Prices vary significantly by season, so booking 4–8 weeks ahead usually secures the best rates.
For first-time visitors, the city centre or historic quarter offers the best combination of walkability, restaurants, and access to main attractions. Once you know the city, neighbourhood hotels often offer better value and a more authentic experience. All the hotels in our guide include neighbourhood notes to help you choose.
Yes — all hotels in our guide can be booked through reputable platforms. We recommend booking either directly with the hotel for potential perks, or through Booking.com for flexible cancellation policies. Always read recent reviews and confirm your booking with the hotel 48 hours before arrival.
Prices and availability change daily. Lock in the best rate by booking early — most of our top picks offer free cancellation.
Check Best Rates in Palawan