Philippines, Asia
Palawan in February
Arguably the single best month: flat water, clear visibility, and comfortable heat.
The straight answer
February is one of the best months of the year to visit Palawan. Arguably the single best month: flat water, clear visibility, and comfortable heat.
- Weather
- Dry, highs near 88F (31C), lowest humidity of the year
- Crowds
- 4 of 5
- Prices
- 4 of 5
What February is like in Palawan
February may be the single best month in Palawan. The water is flat, visibility is clear, and humidity is the lowest of the year. Highs near 88F (31C) feel comfortable with the breeze. Island hopping, snorkeling, and diving are all at their best. Crowds and prices are high, but the holiday rush is over, and the whole island is running at full speed.
This month suits nearly everyone, especially families with older kids, divers, and couples. It is the easiest month to plan a trip that includes El Nido, Coron, and the Underground River. Book resorts and permits early, since demand is strong all month.
Make the most of February
What is especially good about Palawan this month.
Best visibility of the year
Clear water makes snorkeling and Coron's wreck dives spectacular.
Comfortable heat
Low humidity makes long boat days easier on everyone.
Port Barton
The slow village beach town offers island hopping with fewer crowds than El Nido.
What to pack for February
- Snorkel mask if you prefer your own
- Reef shoes
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- A wide-brim hat
Our timing tip
Book the Puerto Princesa Underground River permit ahead, since daily slots are limited.
Book Palawan for February.
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- Hotels for February
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in PalawanOpens a hotel search for Palawan in February, 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 February. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
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 February, quick answers
Is February a good time to visit Palawan?
February is one of the best months of the year to visit Palawan. Arguably the single best month: flat water, clear visibility, and comfortable heat.
What is the weather like in Palawan in February?
Dry, highs near 88F (31C), lowest humidity of the year.
Is Palawan crowded in February?
Palawan is busy in February, though mornings and late afternoons stay workable.
Keep planning Palawan.
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Before you book.
Sort these two things first.
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