February rivals January as Palawan's best month. The dry season remains firmly in control, the Sulu Sea is calm, and El Nido's lagoons are at peak visibility. Chinese New Year brings a surge of Chinese-Filipino visitors in late January or early February, followed by the Valentine's Day rush of couples seeking Palawan's romantic coves. The island-hopping boats are full but slightly less frantic than peak January. Prices remain at high-season levels, but the overall experience is superb.
22–30°C (72–86°F)
Air temp
27°C (81°F)
Sea temp
Very Low
Rainfall
Peak
Crowds
why go
what's on
Chinese New Year
Late January or early FebruaryPuerto Princesa's Chinese-Filipino community celebrates with temple visits, family gatherings, and festive meals. Some Chinese tourist influx affects El Nido accommodation availability.
Valentine's Day
14 FebruaryPalawan is consistently rated among Asia's most romantic destinations. February 14 sees couples arrive for private island picnics, sunset boat tours, and luxury resort packages in El Nido and Coron.
travel tips
El Nido Tour C (Matinloc Shrine, Helicopter Island, Hidden Beach) is the most booking-intensive tour — runs only in good weather with small groups. Book 4–5 days ahead in February.
Coron in February has some of the best wreck diving of the year — visibility reaches 20+ metres at WWII Japanese wrecks including Okikawa Maru and Irako. Book liveaboards ahead.
Withdraw cash in Puerto Princesa as always — the ATM shortage in El Nido is equally critical in February as January.
common questions
February is excellent for El Nido — calm Bacuit Bay, clear lagoon water, and reliable sunshine make it ideal for island hopping, kayaking, and snorkelling. It's busier and pricier than November or March, but conditions are hard to beat. Book tours and accommodation well in advance.
Absolutely. February is one of Coron's best months — calm Coron Bay, crystal-clear Kayangan Lake, and excellent wreck diving visibility. The short boat rides between Coron Town and the dive sites are most comfortable in the dry season's calm seas. Barracuda Lake's famous thermocline (warm fresh water above, cold salt water below) is fascinating year-round.
Group island hopping tours (Tours A, B, C, D) cost PHP 1,200–1,800 per person including lunch, guide, and entrance fees. Private boat hire costs PHP 4,500–8,000 depending on the tour route and boat size. Crystal Cove Island has a separate entrance fee of PHP 120. Prices are stable year-round; there's no February surcharge.
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