Philippines, Asia
Palawan in July
Peak southwest monsoon. El Nido tours are cancelled often when the coast guard halts boats.
The straight answer
July is a month to think twice about visiting Palawan. Peak southwest monsoon. El Nido tours are cancelled often when the coast guard halts boats.
- Weather
- Wet, highs near 86F (30C), frequent heavy rain
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 1 of 5
What July is like in Palawan
July is peak southwest monsoon season. Highs near 86F (30C) come with frequent heavy rain, and El Nido tours are canceled often when the coast guard halts boats. The west coast is rough and gray. Prices are at their lowest, and some small resorts in remote areas close or cut services.
Honestly, this is one of the months to avoid. You may spend days waiting for boats, and long van transfers are no fun in heavy rain. If you want Palawan at its best, go between November and April, with February as the standout.
Make the most of July
What is especially good about Palawan this month.
Lowest prices
Resorts and flights are very cheap, which is the main reason to come.
Coron's sheltered bays
Coron sometimes fares better than El Nido's open coast in the monsoon.
Quiet beaches
On a dry afternoon, you may have a beach almost to yourself.
What to pack for July
- A sturdy rain jacket
- Quick-dry clothing
- A dry bag
- Insect repellent
Our timing tip
If you must go, base yourself in Coron, where sheltered bays sometimes allow boat trips.
Book Palawan for July.
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- Hotels for July
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in PalawanOpens a hotel search for Palawan in July, 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 July. 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 July, quick answers
Is July a good time to visit Palawan?
July is a month to think twice about visiting Palawan. Peak southwest monsoon. El Nido tours are cancelled often when the coast guard halts boats.
What is the weather like in Palawan in July?
Wet, highs near 86F (30C), frequent heavy rain.
Is Palawan crowded in July?
July is one of the quieter months in Palawan; most sights can be done without long waits.
Keep planning Palawan.
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