Palawan sights
Nacpan Beach
A four-kilometre stretch of golden sand and palm trees north of El Nido town, far longer and more open than the island-hopping coves. Relaxed, scenic, and good for a swim, a beach bar, and an unhurried day.
About
Nacpan Beach is the antidote to El Nido's busy island-hopping coves — a glorious, four-kilometre sweep of soft golden sand and leaning coconut palms about an hour's drive north of El Nido town. Where the Bacuit Bay beaches are small and reached only by boat, Nacpan is long, wide, open, and walkable, with proper rolling waves, room to spread out, and a string of low-key beach bars and simple eateries serving cold drinks and fresh seafood. At its northern end, a small headland separates Nacpan from its quieter neighbour Calitang, and a short climb to the 'twin beaches' viewpoint between them is a popular photo stop. It's an easy, unhurried place to spend a day swimming, sunbathing, and watching the sunset, and a welcome change of pace from the boats — reached by tricycle, van, or rented motorbike along a partly rough road, so it pays to set off with time to spare.
Good to know
Opening hours and entry fees vary by season — check before you visit.