Palawan, the largest province in the Philippines in terms of total area of jurisdiction, is akin to paradise on earth. Located on the western border of the country, this island province is one of the most popular travel destinations among local and international tourists. With its long coastline and pristine beaches, water activities are a big hit in Palawan. One of the ideal recreations when vacationing in this island paradise is snorkeling.
Here are some of the best snorkeling sites in Palawan.
Miniloc Island
Miniloc Island is one of the top places of interest in El Nido, a first-class municipality in Palawan in southern Philippines. The island, which is set in a cove with a backdrop of limestone cliffs, is known for its crystal-clear water that is ideal for snorkeling. While underwater, enjoy a visual treat of marine life such as sergeant major, damsel fish, fusiliers, and other multi-colored tropical fishes. Accommodations are not a problem here, as it houses a number of resorts offering first-class vacation packages in Palawan.
Coron Island
Coron Island in northern Palawan is one the most famous tourist getaways in the province. Aside from its bleach-white sand beaches, the island is considered a diving paradise because it is the site of several Japanese shipwrecks during World War II. Coron Island is blessed with diverse marine resources such as jacks, snappers, surgeon fish, barracudas, Spanish mackerels, and others.
Taytay Bay
More snorkeling adventures are in store for visitors in the municipality of Taytay. There are four marine sanctuaries around Taytay Bay, making it a diver's paradise. They are the Tecas Reef Marine Park and Fish Sanctuary, Isla Blanca and Quimbaludan Marine Reserve, Elephant Island and the Hidden Lagoon, and Apulit Island - Club Noah Marine Protected Zone. One of most-sighted fish species in the area is dugong (sea cow). Other colored fish and small rays can be found in Taytay Bay.
Dilumacad Island (Helicopter Island)
Another popular destination in El Nido is Dilumacad Island. It is popularly known as Helicopter Island because its limestone cliffs resemble a helicopter when viewed from a distance. The beach on this island is perfect for snorkeling due to its shallow water. A lot of small fishes and crabs can be found in Dilumacad Island.
Honda Bay
Honday Bay is the pride of Puerto Princesa, the provincial capital of Palawan. Within the bay, there is a sanctuary reef that is ideal for snorkeling and diving. Awaiting visitors in Honday Bay are schools of different fish species and various types of corals such as brain corals, staghorn corals, and others. A side-trip in this area is watching large fruit bats coming out of their holes soon after the sun sets.
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Allan Leandro Merin has been writing professionally since 2008. After leaving a career at a daily electronic newspaper, he joined a web development outsourcing company and linked up with Local Philippines, the most comprehensive online directory of Philippine destinations, events, and attractions.