What to Wear in Palawan + Island Hopping

If you’re wondering what to wear in Palawan, you’re not the first person.

You may be wondering: Do I need to dress conservatively in Palawan? What should I wear in Palawan to go island hopping? Essentially, what should I pack for Palawan?

I’ve been to Palawan twice in the past five years, so I have learnt the hard way exactly what is and isn’t worth packing.

There are a few key things you need to think about when deciding what to wear in Palawan: the temperature, weather, cultural expectations, mosquito protection and Palawan’s primary activity, island hopping.

Palawan is predominantly Catholic, so it’s important not to flaunt around town in a bikini top.

As one of the most southern archipelagos in the Philippines, it is also very hot and humid, so lightweight, breathable clothing is best too.

Planning your complete island hopping in Palawan itinerary? You may find my guides helpful, including my rankings for the best El Nido tour and best Coron island hopping tours.

Disclosure: This post includes affiliate links. If you decide to click through and make a qualifying purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you – thanks for your support.

Where is Palawan?

Palawan is a province in the southwest of the Philippines. It is an archipelago with 1,780+ islands and islets.

Flying from Manila to Palawan takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes, depending upon which airport you’re bound for (Coron, El Nido or Puerto Princesa).

What is the Weather Like in Palawan?

If I could pick one word to define the weather in Palawan, it would be hot.

There are two main seasons in Palawan:

• The dry season: October to May
• The wet season: June to September

You should expect some rainfall early in the dry season, mainly from October to November.

Therefore, November to March is typically the best time to visit Palawan. There is very little rain, and the temperature is mostly warm and sunny.

I visited Palawan twice in November. Both times, it was predominantly sunny with a few days of tropical downpours.

I was lucky enough to narrowly miss a typhoon before my second visit, which had resulted in many of the boat tours being cancelled the week before my trip.

	Dry season (Oct – May)	Wet season (Jun – Sept)
Average temperature	27°C	27°C
Typhoons?	More likely in October	Highest risk

Is Palawan worth visiting in the wet season?

The wet season, from June to September, may have the same average temperature as the dry season (27°C), but it runs a higher risk of heavy rain and typhoons (tropical storms).

The wet season is not an ideal time to visit Palawan because many of the boat tours stop running. Those that are running are prone to last-minute cancellations due to poor weather.

The eastern side of the archipelago generally receives more rain than the western side.

What to Wear in Palawan: Easy Guide

There are four main things to consider when you decide what to wear in Palawan: cultural expectations, climate, the weather and your planned activities.

Let’s quickly address them, one by one.

I’m hoping to visit for a third time, which is when you know something is truly good.

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1. Cultural expectations

Palawan is predominantly Catholic. While there is an expectation that you should dress modestly, it isn’t strict.

It’s common to see tourists showing their shoulders, thighs, and cleavage.

However, most locals wear outfits such as jeans and shirts or a long maxi skirt and blouse.

You should not wear beachwear unless you are on an island hopping tour.

Wearing beachwear in the town is considered very disrespectful to the families who live there.

2. Climate

Palawan is consistently hot and humid, so you should try to wear loose, breathable clothing to keep cool.

Cottons and linens are typically good for this. Activewear with sweat-wicking fabrics will also help to absorb sweat.

3. Activities

On beaches or island hopping tours, swimwear is essential. Bikinis, trunks and swimsuits are all fine to wear in Palawan when you’re in and around the water.

4. Weather

While Palawan is hot and sunny for the most part, it does get its fair share of tropical downpours.

That’s why I recommend that you carry a lightweight, waterproof coat and check the weather forecast regularly.

What to Wear in Palawan: Outfit Ideas

What to Wear in El Nido, Palawan

In El Nido, loose, breathable clothes are best. There is no need to dress conservatively, but when you are walking around the town, please don’t wear your beachwear.

Don’t forget to wear your swimwear (under your clothes) to your island-hopping tour, as there are no changing rooms on the boats.

There are many bars and clubs in El Nido, where you can dress up a little. However, the road surfaces are quite uneven, so I don’t recommend wearing high heels.

What to Wear in Coron, Palawan

In Coron, again, you’ll want to dress in breathable, sweat-wicking fabrics. Beachwear is a no-go in town, but essential for island hopping.

If you plan to climb up Mount Tapyas, you’ll also want to bring some breathable sports clothes.

What to Wear at the Puerto Princesa Underground River

You should avoid wearing long trousers or skirts to the underground river in Puerto Princesa because you will need to wade through knee-deep beachwater after arriving from Sabang by boat.

Wear loose, breathable clothing in the underground river. I was surprised at how hot and humid the cave system is, despite being underground.

Women may feel more comfortable wearing shorts than skirts because you must climb in and out of a wooden boat.

You may also want to wear a cap to provide some protection against water dripping from the ceiling of the cave (…not to mention the bat droppings).

What to Take Island Hopping in Palawan

Knowing what to wear for island hopping in Palawan can make or break your experience.

Sharp rocks and corals mean that reef shoes and first-aid kits (for small emergencies) are essential.

A dry bag is also imperative to keep your belongings dry on the boat and beaches.

• Dry bag: A 10- or 20-litre bag should be sufficient. They can be purchased for a good price from the markets in town.
• Reef shoes: You need to walk along rocks to reach many island-hopping sites, so reef shoes are essential. They can also be purchased at the markets.
• Sun cream and cap
• Reusable water bottle: Single-use plastics are banned. Bring a large bottle of water (ideally 2-3 litres for a full day).
• Towel: A quick-dry microfibre towel is ideal.
• First-aid kit, including plasters, Imodium, anti-allergy tablets, bandages and sterile wipes.
• Toilet paper: Some of the beaches have a basic toilet. They don’t have toilet paper, so bring your own.
• Snorkel (optional): Most boat trips include snorkels in the price or provide them for an additional fee, but you may feel more comfortable using your own gear.

Island Hopping Outfit for Palawan for Men and Women

Full Palawan Packing List

What not to pack for Palawan

Bulky raincoat: There’s no reason to bring a thick raincoat to Palawan. When it rains, it’s still hot. Your raincoat should be lightweight and have a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating.

High heels: While there are some great bars and clubs around locations such as El Nido, the roads are often potholed. You don’t want to risk a twisted ankle.

Complete Packing List

Miscellaneous

• Lightweight beach towel (ideally microfibre).
• Sunglasses.
• Sun cream.
• Padlocks for hostel lockers.
• Mosquito repellent.
• Tissues and/or toilet paper.
• Snacks.
• A reusable water bottle.
• Travel journal.

Clothes

• Lightweight t-shirts or shirts, including lots of spares.
• Lightweight jackets or cardigans.
• Shorts or skirts.
• Dresses.
• Long, breathable trousers.
• Swimwear.
• Beach cover-ups.
• Socks.
• Underwear and bras.
• Jewellery and/or watch.

Shoes

• Flip-flops or sandals.
• Sturdy trainers or hiking shoes.
• Reef shoes.

Bags

• Day backpack.
• Dry bag.
• Tote bag or clutch, if required.

Toiletries

• Face wash.
• Shower gel.
• Shower poof or scrubber.
• Razors and razor cream.
• Shampoo and conditioner.
• Moisturiser.
• Deodorant.
• Body spray or perfume.
• Tweezers.
• Nail clippers or scissors.
• Hair brush or comb.
• Hair bobbles and clips.

First-aid kit

• Waterproof plasters.
• Blister plasters.
• Bandages and surgical tape.
• Imodium for traveller’s diarrhoea.
• Rehydration sachets
• Anti-allergy tablets.
• Antiseptic wipes.
• Antibacterial cream.
• Painkillers like Paracetamol or Ibuprofen.
• Mosquito relief cream.
• Anti-acids.
• Anti-sickness tablets for motion sickness.

Valuables

• Any prescription medicine, accompanied by a doctor’s letter.
• Passport.
• Tourist visa (or other suitable visa)
• Travel insurance documents. I recommend using Staysure or Safety Wing travel insurance.
• Mobile phone.
• Phone charger.
• Laptop and laptop charger (if required).
• Padlock for lockers in hostels.
• Earphones.
• Plug adaptor. The Philippines typically uses plug type A, which has two flat parallel pins. This is the same plug used in North America. Some plugs may require a type C adaptor, which is a European-style adaptor.
• Camera, including a memory card and camera charger.
• Power bank.
• ID card.
• Wallet with cash and a debit or credit card.

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I hope you found this guide helpful! Leave a comment below to let me know your trip plans, and continue reading for more tips…

• Island hopping in Palawan – start here!
• Coron travel itinerary
• El Nido itinerary
• Puerto Princesa itinerary
• El Nido vs Coron – which is better?