Philippines, Asia
Palawan in May
Still mostly good for the first few weeks. Rains typically arrive late in the month.
The straight answer
May is a good month to visit Palawan. Still mostly good for the first few weeks. Rains typically arrive late in the month.
- Weather
- Hot and humid, highs near 91F (33C), first storms late month
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What May is like in Palawan
May is hot and humid, with highs near 91F (33C). The first few weeks are still mostly good for island hopping and diving, but rains typically arrive late in the month. Tubbataha's dive season continues. Crowds thin and prices start to drop after the spring peak, and the famous lagoons feel calmer.
This month suits divers and budget travelers who want good conditions at lower prices. Aim for the first half of May. Families should plan for heat and the chance of late-month storms. For more reliable weather, go in February or March.
Make the most of May
What is especially good about Palawan this month.
Early May calm
The first weeks usually still have calm seas and clear skies.
Tubbataha season
Liveaboard trips continue through May.
Softer prices
Resort rates start to ease after the busy spring.
What to pack for May
- A light rain jacket
- Reef shoes
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Quick-dry clothes
Our timing tip
Travel in the first half of May, before the rains usually arrive.
Book Palawan for May.
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- Hotels for May
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in PalawanOpens a hotel search for Palawan in May, 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 May. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in May
Tubbataha dive season
Roughly mid March to mid June
The only window when liveaboards can cross the Sulu Sea to the reefs.
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 May, quick answers
Is May a good time to visit Palawan?
May is a good month to visit Palawan. Still mostly good for the first few weeks. Rains typically arrive late in the month.
What is the weather like in Palawan in May?
Hot and humid, highs near 91F (33C), first storms late month.
Is Palawan crowded in May?
Crowds in Palawan are moderate in May; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
What is happening in Palawan in May?
Tubbataha dive season (roughly mid march to mid june).
Keep planning Palawan.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in May
Before you book.
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