Spring is one of the best times to visit the Philippines – especially El Nido and Palawan. Between March and May 2026, the region shows its absolute postcard side: abundant sunshine, calm seas, crystal-clear waters and minimal rain. Island-hopping in El Nido, tranquil bays around Coron, or multi-week itineraries can now be planned with ease:
Spring 2026 in the Philippines – Events & Travel Highlights

- Tubbataha Reef Diving Season (Tubbataha Reef, Palawan) | Mid-March – Mid-June 2026
- The world-famous Tubbataha National Marine Park opens during this period with excellent visibility, calm waters and breathtaking underwater scenery – one of the most spectacular diving seasons of the year.
- Note: Tubbataha liveaboard boats are extremely popular and often fully booked well in advance – especially over Easter and public holidays.
- Coconut Festival (San Pablo City, Laguna / Luzon) | May 7, 2026
- A traditional cultural festival celebrating the coconut with parades, local delicacies and music. Particularly relevant for Palawan travelers if your route begins or ends in Manila.
Important Travel Tips & Updates for 2026
A notable change affects domestic flights in March 2026: some regional flights, including routes to Coron and El Nido, will be routed via Clark International Airport instead of Manila. This may mean slightly longer connections and additional transfers. Make sure to allow enough time for transfers and confirm which airport your domestic flight departs from.
Seasonal Highlights & Weather – Ideal Conditions in Spring
Spring is considered one of the best travel seasons for Palawan: warm temperatures, abundant sunshine and minimal rainfall, as the rainy season typically starts only in late May or June. In El Nido, temperatures usually range between 79–88 °F (26–31 °C) during this period, accompanied by plenty of sun – especially in March and April.
- March: Excellent, mostly dry weather with abundant sunshine – ideal for beach days, island-hopping and outdoor adventures.
- April: Continues with sunny skies and perfect conditions for boat tours, snorkeling, kayaking and beach excursions.
- May: Start of the transition to the rainy season with slightly more precipitation, but in many years still plenty of good days and clear waters.
Inspiration for Palawan & El Nido
Palawan in spring offers some of the world’s most stunning island experiences: turquoise seas, white-sand beaches, surreal lagoons and unique underwater life.
El Nido – Beaches, Lagoons & Island Adventures

El Nido is the heart of Palawan with iconic limestone cliffs, pristine bays and paradisiacal beaches. Highlights include:
- Dream beaches with crystal-clear waters
- Boat tours to Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon & Secret Beach
- Snorkeling and diving spots teeming with tropical fish
- Sunsets over Bacuit Bay
- Read more: El Nido: The Seven Most Beautiful Beaches and Lagoons
- Also see: Which Tour to Book in El Nido? A Guide to Tours A, B, C, and D
Coron & Surroundings – Lakes, Wrecks & Natural Wonders

The islands around Coron tempt travelers with hidden lakes, turquoise lagoons and spectacular shipwrecks – perfect for spring 2026 activities:
- Kayangan Lake & Twin Lagoon
- WWII shipwreck snorkeling
- Maquinit Hot Springs at sunset
- Read more: 5 Highlights in Coron, Palawan: Adventure and Relaxation in Paradise
14-Day Palawan / Philippines Route – Spring is Ideal for Combined Trips
If you have more time, a combined route through El Nido, Coron and other Philippine highlights is highly recommended – especially in spring thanks to pleasant weather and calm seas. Discover more
Our conclusion: Abundant sunshine, warm temperatures and calm seas create perfect conditions for island-hopping, snorkeling, boat tours and relaxing days on dream beaches in the Philippines during spring 2026.


Leave a Reply