Philippines, Asia
Palawan in December
Good weather, but Christmas to New Year is the most expensive and crowded stretch. Book months ahead.
The straight answer
December is a good month to visit Palawan. Good weather, but Christmas to New Year is the most expensive and crowded stretch. Book months ahead.
- Weather
- Mostly dry, highs near 87F (31C), breezy
- Crowds
- 5 of 5
- Prices
- 5 of 5
What December is like in Palawan
December is mostly dry, with highs near 87F (31C) and a steady breeze. The weather is good, but Christmas to New Year is the most expensive and crowded stretch of the year. The Philippines celebrates a long Christmas season, and beaches and boats book out. The first half of the month is calmer and cheaper.
This month suits families on winter break and couples who book early. If you want lower prices, travel in the first half of December. For the calmest seas and best value, go in late January or February.
Make the most of December
What is especially good about Palawan this month.
Christmas season
Filipino holiday celebrations bring a festive mood to towns and resorts.
Good boat days
Dry weather means island hopping runs well.
Early December value
The first half of the month has good weather before holiday prices.
What to pack for December
- Reef shoes
- A rash guard
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- A dry bag
Our timing tip
Book months ahead for Christmas and New Year, since boats and beaches sell out.
Book Palawan for December.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for December
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in PalawanOpens a hotel search for Palawan in December, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in PalawanWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in PalawanTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Palawan for December. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in December
Christmas and New Year
Mid December to early January
The Philippines celebrates one of the longest Christmas seasons anywhere. Beaches and boats book out, with the highest prices of the year.
Things to do in Palawan
El Nido island hopping (Tours A to D)
Tour A covers the Big and Small Lagoons. Boats need coast guard clearance and are cancelled in rough seas, so book early in your stay.
Coron: Kayangan Lake and the wrecks
Kayangan's viewpoint is best early before the boats arrive. Wreck dives suit certified divers; snorkelers can see the shallower Skeleton Wreck.
Puerto Princesa Underground River
Permits are limited per day and required. Book through an accredited operator or the city permit office ahead of time.
Tubbataha Reefs
Liveaboard only, and only in the calm season from about mid March to mid June. Book a year ahead.
Port Barton
A slow village beach town between Puerto Princesa and El Nido, with island hopping minus the crowds.
Nacpan Beach
A long golden beach north of El Nido town. Go on a weekday afternoon.
Beat the crowds
- Do El Nido's Tour A as early as operators allow, or charter a private boat and run the route in reverse to hit the lagoons before the big groups.
- Avoid Holy Week, Christmas to New Year, and Chinese New Year week; resorts fill and prices jump.
- Split the trip between a busy hub and a quiet base like Port Barton or San Vicente.
- Book a few buffer days. In shoulder months, boat cancellations for rough seas can knock out a day or two of tours.
Know before you go
- The coast guard cancels island hopping and ferry trips when seas are rough, most often from June to October.
- The Puerto Princesa Underground River has limited daily permits and can close in bad weather or for maintenance; confirm your slot.
- El Nido charges an environmental fee (the Ecotourism Development Fee) for island hopping; keep your receipt for the length of your stay.
- Some small resorts in remote areas close or reduce services during the rainy season.
Palawan in December, quick answers
Is December a good time to visit Palawan?
December is a good month to visit Palawan. Good weather, but Christmas to New Year is the most expensive and crowded stretch. Book months ahead.
What is the weather like in Palawan in December?
Mostly dry, highs near 87F (31C), breezy.
Is Palawan crowded in December?
December is peak crowd season in Palawan; expect lines at the headline sights.
What is happening in Palawan in December?
Christmas and New Year (mid december to early january).
Keep planning Palawan.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
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Before you book.
Sort these two things first.
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Travel insurance.
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