Philippines, Asia
Palawan in November
Dry season arrives and crowds are still light. Late-season typhoons remain a small risk.
The straight answer
November is a good month to visit Palawan. Dry season arrives and crowds are still light. Late-season typhoons remain a small risk.
- Weather
- Drying out, highs near 87F (31C)
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What November is like in Palawan
November brings the start of the dry season, with highs near 87F (31C) and drying weather. Crowds are still light, and prices are moderate. Late-season typhoons remain a small risk, so watch the forecast and book refundable. Island hopping becomes more reliable as the month goes on, and the lagoons and beaches are calm before the holiday rush.
This month suits couples, families, and first-timers who want good weather before the holiday crowds. It is a great value month, with prices well below December's. For the calmest seas, February is even better.
Make the most of November
What is especially good about Palawan this month.
Dry season begins
Boat tours run more reliably as the rains fade.
Light crowds
El Nido and Coron are calm before the holiday rush.
Good value
Prices are lower than December and January.
What to pack for November
- Reef shoes
- A rash guard
- A light rain jacket
- Reef-safe sunscreen
Our timing tip
Buy travel insurance and watch the forecast, since late typhoons are a small risk.
Book Palawan for November.
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- Hotels for November
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in PalawanOpens a hotel search for Palawan in November, 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 November. 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 November, quick answers
Is November a good time to visit Palawan?
November is a good month to visit Palawan. Dry season arrives and crowds are still light. Late-season typhoons remain a small risk.
What is the weather like in Palawan in November?
Drying out, highs near 87F (31C).
Is Palawan crowded in November?
Crowds in Palawan are moderate in November; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
Keep planning Palawan.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in November
Before you book.
Sort these two things first.
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Travel insurance.
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