In case you needed another reason to visit the Philippines, here’s one more: Palawan’s breathtaking beaches have once again made it to the list of the world’s top beaches in 2025. Yep, this isn’t just hype—this island continues to dominate global rankings, proving it’s more than just a pretty postcard.
Let’s break down what this means, why Palawan stands out from other tropical destinations, and why it’s a must-visit for beach lovers, adventurers, and even casual travelers looking for a slice of paradise.
🌴 Entalula Beach in El Nido Ranks #2 in the World’s 50 Best Beaches 2025
The headline-grabber this year is Entalula Beach, tucked away in El Nido, Northern Palawan. It landed an impressive #2 spot on the prestigious World’s 50 Best Beaches 2025 list, beating out famous beaches from the Caribbean, Maldives, and Greece.
What makes Entalula special?
✅ Powdery white sand that feels like silk underfoot.
✅ Crystal-clear, turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
✅ Dramatic limestone cliffs framing the beach, creating a cinematic, untouched vibe.
✅ Seclusion and privacy—it’s accessible mainly by boat, keeping the crowds away.
In a world filled with overhyped tourist traps, Entalula is a reminder that some natural wonders still fly under the radar. Travelers describe it as “stepping into a real-life screensaver.” And honestly, they’re not exaggerating.
🏝️ Hidden Beach’s Past Glory Still Shines
Though it didn’t make the 2025 list, Hidden Beach, also in El Nido, previously ranked #3 in 2023. This secret cove, only accessible through a narrow opening in towering limestone rocks, remains an icon.
It’s called Hidden Beach for a reason—you can’t see it from the sea. You have to swim or kayak through a crevice to enter, and once inside, you’re rewarded with calm, shallow waters and a peaceful lagoon surrounded by cliffs.
It’s Instagrammable. It’s quiet. It’s magical.
Even though it’s off the official rankings this year, travelers continue to rave about it in blogs, vlogs, and travel forums. If you’re in El Nido, this beach still deserves a spot on your itinerary.
🏆 Why Do Palawan Beaches Keep Ranking Among the World’s Best?
Let’s get real for a second. There are thousands of beautiful beaches around the world. So why does Palawan consistently top global rankings?
Here’s the secret sauce:
- Raw, untouched beauty – No sprawling resorts eating up the shoreline. No aggressive commercialization. The vibe is still natural and pristine.
- Dramatic landscapes – The limestone cliffs of El Nido and Coron aren’t just background—they’re part of the experience. You’re not just lying on a beach; you’re inside a natural wonder.
- Rich marine biodiversity – Snorkeling and diving spots around Palawan are world-class, with coral reefs, sea turtles, and even dugongs.
- Eco-tourism efforts – The Philippines, especially Palawan, has worked hard to balance tourism and conservation. Many beaches have limits on visitors per day to avoid overcrowding.
In short? It’s paradise without feeling fake or overdeveloped.
✈️ Planning Your Trip: What You Need to Know
If this ranking convinced you to bump Palawan up your travel list (and it should), here’s what to know:
✅ Best time to visit: Dry season runs December to May, with March and April being peak summer. Avoid the rainy months of July to September.
✅ How to get there: Fly to Puerto Princesa, then take a van or bus to El Nido (about 5-6 hours with Lazy Boy seats and Comfort Room). Or fly directly to El Nido Airport (Lio Airport) if you want to skip the land travel.
✅ Island hopping is a must: Entalula Beach is typically part of Tour B or C of El Nido’s island-hopping packages. Book a private boat for more flexibility.
✅ Accommodation: El Nido offers everything from budget hostels to luxury eco-resorts. Book early, especially in summer.
✅ Responsible tourism tip: Avoid stepping on coral reefs, bring reusable water bottles, and follow Leave No Trace principles to keep Palawan beautiful.
📸 Palawan’s Global Recognition: More Than Just a Pretty Beach
This isn’t the first time Palawan has made headlines globally:
🏆 Named “Best Island in the World” multiple times by Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler.
🏆 Several beaches ranked in Top 10 Asia Beaches by TripAdvisor.
🏆 Declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for its ecological significance.
With accolades stacking up year after year, Palawan’s appeal shows no signs of slowing down. It’s not just a destination—it’s a bucket list experience.
💬 The Takeaway: Visit Before Everyone Else Does
Palawan is at a crossroads. As more people discover its magic, it risks going the way of other over-touristed spots. But for now? It’s still holding onto that delicate balance of raw beauty and accessible tourism.
Whether you’re a sun-worshipper, a snorkeler, a nature photographer, or just someone needing a reset from the chaos of everyday life, Palawan delivers.
So if you’ve ever dreamed of walking barefoot on powdery sands, diving into gin-clear waters, and watching limestone cliffs glow under the sunset—the time to visit is now.
Before the crowds. Before the overdevelopment. Before it’s no longer hidden.
Palawan’s beaches didn’t just make it to the top of the world’s best—they earned it. And they’re waiting for you.
Have you been to Palawan? What was your favorite beach experience?