Few places on earth match the sheer, cinematic beauty of El Nido and Coron in Palawan. With their towering limestone cliffs, hidden turquoise lagoons, and water so clear it’s like glass, these two destinations are a photographer’s dream. Whether you’re capturing drone shots from the sky, intimate portraits on the boat, or golden-hour silhouettes, Palawan offers scenes so breathtaking you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a postcard.
Why They’re Special
El Nido and Coron are part of the Calamian Islands in the northern part of Palawan. They’ve repeatedly been named among the world’s best island destinations not just for their beaches, but for their untouched marine life, mystical caves, and jaw-dropping karst landscapes. The contrast of emerald-green water against dark gray cliffs creates a natural backdrop that almost feels unreal.
Beyond the scenery, these islands also carry a quiet charm no towering hotels or overdeveloped resorts to block the view, just raw, wild beauty.
Top Photography Spots You Can’t Miss
- Kayangan Lake (Coron)
- Famous for being one of the clearest lakes in Asia, Kayangan is split between brackish water and hidden underwater rock formations.
- Best Shot: The classic viewpoint shot after a short hike up to the lookout point, you’ll capture the sweeping scene of emerald water cradled by dramatic cliffs.
- Famous for being one of the clearest lakes in Asia, Kayangan is split between brackish water and hidden underwater rock formations.
- Big Lagoon (El Nido)
- Accessible via island-hopping tours, Big Lagoon is best photographed when the tide is high enough to glide into its heart.
- Best Shot: Aerial drone footage of kayaks threading through the lagoon’s narrow, jade-colored entrance.
- Accessible via island-hopping tours, Big Lagoon is best photographed when the tide is high enough to glide into its heart.
- Twin Lagoon (Coron)
- Two lagoons separated by limestone cliffs, connected by a small hole or short swim-through tunnel.
- Best Shot: Go for underwater split shots half above the surface, half below to capture the contrasting worlds.
- Two lagoons separated by limestone cliffs, connected by a small hole or short swim-through tunnel.
- Aerial Shots of Island-Hopping Tours
- Palawan’s island clusters look especially magical from above. Drones reveal the full palette of turquoise to deep sapphire waters, dotted with white sandbars.
- Palawan’s island clusters look especially magical from above. Drones reveal the full palette of turquoise to deep sapphire waters, dotted with white sandbars.
Best Time to Capture the Magic
- Sunrise: Calm waters, soft light, and minimal crowds. Perfect for tranquil, dreamy shots.
- Golden Hour (late afternoon): The limestone cliffs glow warm gold, casting dramatic shadows across the lagoons.
- Dry Season (November to May): Clear skies and consistent sunlight make for vibrant colors in every photo.
Photography Tips for Palawan
- Polarizing Filter: Cuts through surface glare, making the water’s color pop.
- Wide-Angle Lens: Essential for capturing towering cliffs in their full glory.
- Drone: If local regulations and tour operators allow, a drone can give you unmatched perspectives.
- Waterproof Gear: Many of the best shots involve getting wet protect your camera or use a waterproof action cam.
Pro Traveler’s Note
If you have to choose between El Nido and Coron for photography don’t. Each offers a distinct mood: El Nido feels like an untouched jungle paradise with expansive lagoons, while Coron has a mystical vibe with its lakes, shipwrecks, and hidden coves. Together, they create a complete story of Palawan’s beauty.
