Hey guys! Planning a trip to the Philippines? You absolutely HAVE to include Ipalawan on your itinerary. Seriously, this island province is a slice of paradise with its stunning natural beauty. We're talking about breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and adventures galore. So, what are the top things to do in Ipalawan? Let's dive in and explore this tropical wonderland!

Explore El Nido's Island Hopping Adventures

When you think of Ipalawan, chances are you're picturing El Nido. And for good reason! El Nido is famous for its incredible island-hopping tours. These tours take you to hidden lagoons, secret beaches, and towering limestone cliffs. Trust me, the scenery is straight out of a postcard.

There are four main El Nido island hopping tours, creatively named Tour A, Tour B, Tour C, and Tour D. Each tour offers a unique experience, so choosing the right one depends on your interests.

• Tour A is the most popular, and for good reason. It includes the iconic Secret Lagoon, the stunning Big Lagoon, and the beautiful Shimizu Island. You'll also get to snorkel in Payong-Payong Beach and relax on 7 Commando Beach. This tour is perfect for first-timers and those who want to see the classic El Nido sights.
• Tour B takes you to the less crowded spots, like Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, and the Entalula Beach. This tour is great if you're looking for a more relaxed experience and want to avoid the crowds. Plus, Snake Island is super cool with its sandbar that connects to the mainland.
• Tour C is all about snorkeling and diving. You'll visit Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, and Secret Beach. This tour is perfect for underwater enthusiasts who want to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
• Tour D focuses on the beaches and lagoons closer to town. You'll visit Cadlao Lagoon, Paradise Beach, and Pasandigan Beach. This tour is a good option if you're short on time or want a more laid-back day.

Pro-tip: Book your island hopping tours in advance, especially during peak season. And don't forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and a waterproof camera to capture all the amazing memories! Each tour usually includes lunch, which is a delicious Filipino-style barbecue served right on the beach. How awesome is that? The boat rides themselves are part of the adventure, offering stunning views of the turquoise waters and dramatic rock formations. Keep your eyes peeled for hidden coves and secluded beaches – you might just discover your own little slice of paradise. The best part is sharing these experiences with fellow travelers, swapping stories, and making new friends. Island hopping in El Nido is more than just a tour; it's an unforgettable adventure that will leave you in awe of nature's beauty.

Discover the Underground River in Puerto Princesa

Another must-see attraction in Ipalawan is the Puerto Princesa Underground River. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, and it's truly an incredible experience. The river flows for over 8 kilometers through a stunning cave system, and you'll explore it by boat with a guide who will point out the various rock formations and wildlife.

The journey to the Underground River is an adventure in itself. You'll start with a scenic drive through the countryside, followed by a short boat ride to the mouth of the cave. As you enter the cave, you'll be greeted by a cool, dark atmosphere and the sound of dripping water. The stalactites and stalagmites create a surreal landscape, and your guide will use a spotlight to highlight the most interesting features. Look out for bats, snakes, and other creatures that call the cave home!

The Underground River tour typically lasts about 45 minutes, but it feels much shorter when you're mesmerized by the cave's beauty. You'll learn about the geology of the area, the history of the river, and the efforts to protect this natural wonder. It's a truly educational and awe-inspiring experience that you won't soon forget. After the tour, you can enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the nearby restaurants and relax on the beach before heading back to Puerto Princesa. Remember to book your tour in advance, as slots are limited and the Underground River is a very popular attraction. You can also combine your visit with a trip to Sabang Beach, a charming coastal town with beautiful scenery and laid-back vibes. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a unique adventure, the Puerto Princesa Underground River is an absolute must-see in Ipalawan.

Relax on the Beaches of Coron

While El Nido often steals the spotlight, Coron is equally stunning, especially when it comes to its beaches. Coron boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with crystal-clear waters, white sand, and dramatic limestone cliffs. It's the perfect place to relax, soak up the sun, and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

One of the most famous beaches in Coron is Kayangan Lake. Yes, it's technically a lake, but it's connected to the sea by an underground river, making it a unique and stunning swimming spot. The water is incredibly clear, and the surrounding cliffs create a breathtaking backdrop. It's a bit of a climb to get down to the lake, but the views are well worth the effort. Another popular beach is Banol Beach, a small but perfectly formed stretch of sand with crystal-clear waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities. You can also visit Twin Lagoon, where you can swim between two lagoons through a narrow opening in the rocks. It's an amazing experience that you won't forget.

For a more secluded experience, head to Malcapuya Island. This paradise island boasts powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and swaying palm trees. It's the perfect place to relax, swim, and soak up the sun. You can also go snorkeling or diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Coron's beaches are not just about relaxation; they're also about adventure. You can go kayaking, paddleboarding, or windsurfing. You can also take a boat trip to explore the nearby islands and discover hidden coves and secluded beaches. And when the sun goes down, you can enjoy a romantic sunset dinner on the beach, with the sound of the waves as your soundtrack. Coron's beaches are truly a tropical paradise, offering something for everyone. Whether you're looking for relaxation, adventure, or simply a place to escape the everyday, Coron's beaches are sure to delight.

Dive into World-Class Wreck Diving Sites

For diving enthusiasts, Ipalawan is a dream come true. Coron, in particular, is renowned for its world-class wreck diving sites. During World War II, a fleet of Japanese ships was sunk in Coron Bay, and these wrecks now lie beneath the waves, creating an amazing underwater playground for divers.

The wrecks are incredibly well-preserved, and they're teeming with marine life. You'll see schools of fish, colorful corals, and fascinating creatures like sea turtles, sharks, and rays. The wrecks range in depth from shallow to very deep, so there's something for divers of all skill levels. Some of the most popular wreck diving sites include the Okikawa Maru, the largest wreck in Coron Bay, the Irako Maru, a former supply ship, and the Akitsushima Maru, a seaplane carrier. Each wreck has its own unique story and its own unique beauty. Exploring these wrecks is like stepping back in time, and it's an unforgettable experience for any diver.

Even if you're not a certified diver, you can still experience the magic of wreck diving by taking a discover scuba diving course. These courses are designed for beginners and will teach you the basics of diving in a safe and controlled environment. You'll get to explore the shallowest parts of the wrecks and see the amazing marine life that calls them home. Coron's wreck diving sites are not just for experienced divers; they're for anyone who wants to experience the thrill of exploring the underwater world. With its clear waters, abundant marine life, and fascinating history, Coron is a diving paradise that you won't want to miss.

Experience the Wildlife at Calauit Safari Park

If you're an animal lover, a visit to Calauit Safari Park is a must. Located on Calauit Island, this unique wildlife sanctuary is home to a variety of exotic animals, including giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and kangaroos. The park was established in the 1970s to save endangered African animals from extinction, and it's now a thriving ecosystem where these animals roam freely.

Visiting Calauit Safari Park is like taking a trip to Africa without leaving the Philippines. You can take a guided tour of the park and see the animals up close. You'll learn about their habits, their history, and the efforts to protect them. You can even feed the giraffes, which is an amazing experience that you'll never forget. The park is not just about the African animals; it's also home to a variety of endemic Philippine species, such as the Calamian deer and the Palawan bearcat. These animals are unique to the Philippines, and they're an important part of the country's biodiversity.

Calauit Safari Park is a great place to learn about wildlife conservation and to see animals in a natural setting. It's also a fun and educational experience for the whole family. You can spend the day exploring the park, taking photos, and learning about the animals. And when you're done, you can relax on the beach and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Calauit Safari Park is a unique and unforgettable experience that you won't want to miss.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, folks! Just a taste of the amazing things you can do in Ipalawan, Philippines. From island hopping in El Nido to exploring the Underground River in Puerto Princesa, relaxing on the beaches of Coron, diving into world-class wreck diving sites and experiencing the wildlife at Calauit Safari Park, Ipalawan has something for everyone. So pack your bags, book your flights, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime! You won't regret it!