Best Spas To Visit While In Palawan
When one envisions Palawan, the mind immediately drifts to towering limestone karsts, crystal-clear turquoise lagoons, and the powdery white sands of El Nido and Coron. Often heralded as the "Last Frontier" of the Philippines, this narrow archipelago is a sanctuary of unparalleled marine biodiversity and lush tropical rainforests.
While the Philippines sits squarely on the Pacific Ring of Fire, Palawan is geologically older and more stable than the highly volcanic islands of Luzon or Mindanao. So, bubbling geothermal vents are rare here. Yet, the ones that do exist are extraordinary—most notably, one of the world's few saltwater hot springs.
1. Maquinit Hot Spring
Maquinit is the crown jewel of Palawan’s geothermal offerings and a true global rarity: a saltwater hot spring. Nestled within a dense mangrove forest on the southern coast of Busuanga Island, the spring is heated by an underground volcano and feeds directly into the ocean. The pebble-bottomed pools are surrounded by natural rock walls, offering stunning views of the sea and nearby islands, making it the ultimate destination for divers looking to decompress.
Craving a seaside soak with a touch of the extraordinary? Maquinit Hot Spring in Coron, Palawan, is your answer. One of the lesser-known saltwater hot springs in the world is the Maquinit Hot Spring. It is situated off the Southern coast of Busuanga Island and less than 5 km away from Coron town.
Stay at the top rated DK's Inn, an 8-minute walk from Coron Public Market and 0.7 miles from Mount Tapyas. If you don’t mind sharing space, try out Hop Hostel with a shared kitchen and lounge with a rooftop space, pool, and laundry.
Water Quality: 4 stars: Minor sediment or slight sulfur smell, but still clean and enjoyable. (The natural mangrove environment introduces some leaves and organic sediment).
Ease of Access: 3 stars: Moderate hike or challenging terrain with limited parking. (Accessed via a bumpy, often unpaved 30-minute tricycle ride from Coron town).
Ability to be Alone: 2 stars: Busy atmosphere, shared pools with limited privacy. (Highly popular at sunset).
Water Temperature: 4 stars: Comfortable soaking temperature with room for slight adjustment. (Temperatures hover around 38°C to 40°C).
Health Benefits: 5 stars: Rich mineral content with documented therapeutic benefits for specific conditions. (The unique blend of ocean salt, sulfur, and spirulina is incredible for skin health).
Nearby Amenities: 3 stars: Limited amenities, requiring some effort to find necessities. (There are basic changing rooms and a small snack shop, but you must return to town for full meals)
2. Mainit Hot Spring
Located far south of the popular tourist hubs in Puerto Princesa, the municipality of Brooke’s Point hides a tranquil, off-the-beaten-path thermal site. "Mainit" literally translates to "hot" in Tagalog. These springs are situated within the Mount Mantalingahan Protected Landscape, offering a deeply authentic, jungle-immersed soaking experience far removed from the luxury resorts of the north.
Stay nearby at the Sun Xi Mountain Retreat. A break from the standard seaside resort, Sun Xi is a breath of fresh air, situated on a mountain, you immediately get swept away with it's breath taking views when you arrive.
In 2026 - There are only two springs left. The locals said the others were destroyed after Storm Tino. They are currently building a river wall, and the whole area has turned into a construction site.
According to local lore, the Manok sa Mainit, chased by hunters, sought refuge in the depths of the earth. Its tears, imbued with its fiery essence, formed the spring, its waters ever-warm and shimmering with an otherworldly glow. Bathing in the Mainit Hot Spring is believed to grant strength, vitality, and protection from harm, mirroring the fiery spirit of the legendary bird.
There are different pools with varying temperatures, so whether you want it lukewarm or steaming hot, there’s one for you. The lush greenery around the area makes it feel like a true tropical retreat.
Go early to avoid the crowd, especially on weekends. Bring your own food/snacks; a few sari-sari stores are nearby. Wear proper footwear; some paths can be slippery
Water Quality: 4 stars: Minor sediment or slight sulfur smell, but still clean and enjoyable.
Ease of Access: 3 stars: Moderate hike or challenging terrain with limited parking. (Requires a long drive from Puerto Princesa and a walk into the forest reserve).
Ability to be Alone: 4 stars: Larger pools with designated quiet zones or secluded areas available. (Rarely visited by international tourists).
Water Temperature: 4 stars: Comfortable soaking temperature with room for slight adjustment.
Health Benefits: 4 stars: Noticeable mineral presence with potential health advantages. (Sulfur-rich waters traditionally used by locals for joint pain).
Nearby Amenities: 2 stars: Few or no amenities, best for a back-to-nature experience.
3. Aman Spa at Amanpulo
When natural hot springs are out of reach, the world's finest resorts create their own thermal sanctuaries. Amanpulo, set on a private island in the Sulu Sea, offers a spa pavilion perched on a hillside. While not a natural geothermal vent, the spa incorporates heated outdoor hydrotherapy baths utilizing Palawan sea salt and native medicinal herbs, providing a thermal experience steeped in natural elements.
Beautiful staff, they are really pro of their jobs. Massages, fitness, scrubs, yoga, aromatherapy and more another.
Water Quality: 5 stars: Crystal clear, naturally filtered, and free of any unpleasant odors or contaminants.
Ease of Access: 1 star: Extremely remote location, potentially requiring special permits or equipment. (Requires a private charter flight to reach the island).
Ability to be Alone: 5 stars: Secluded pools or private soaking areas with minimal crowds.
Water Temperature: 5 stars: Multiple pools with varying temperatures to suit individual preferences. (Custom-heated spa baths).
Health Benefits: 3 stars: Moderate mineral content, may offer general relaxation benefits.
Nearby Amenities: 5 stars: Spa services, restaurants, lodging options, and recreational activities within walking distance.
4. Narri Spa at Two Seasons Coron Island Resort
Situated on the beautiful Bulalacao Peninsula, this eco-friendly luxury resort features the Narri Spa, which juts out over the ocean and mangroves. The spa features bespoke heated stone baths and hydrotherapy treatments that utilize the surrounding ocean water, filtered and heated for deep muscle relaxation after island-hopping.
Two Seasons’ unique position on a narrow peninsula means you enjoy two spectacular coastlines: - East-facing views with calm, glassy water in the morning - West-facing sunsets that light up the entire bay We joined the resort’s beach‑hopping tours, which were well‑organized and perfect for families.
Snorkeling was great at the beach! Saw rays, puffer fish, giant clams and many starfish. There are free kayaks and SUPs one can take for free, only you are just allowed in front of the beach.
Water Quality: 5 stars: Crystal clear, naturally filtered, and free of any unpleasant odors or contaminants.
Ease of Access: 2 stars: Long and strenuous hike or difficult access requiring off-road vehicles. (Accessible only by a 45-minute private speedboat ride from Coron town).
Ability to be Alone: 5 stars: Secluded pools or private soaking areas with minimal crowds.
Water Temperature: 4 stars: Comfortable soaking temperature with room for slight adjustment.
Health Benefits: 3 stars: Moderate mineral content, may offer general relaxation benefits.
Nearby Amenities: 5 stars: Spa services, restaurants, lodging options, and recreational activities within walking distance.
5. Pangulasian Island Spa
Known as the "Island of the Sun," Pangulasian Island Spa offers an incredibly integrated nature spa. While El Nido lacks geothermal springs, this spa creates a thermal journey using indigenous heated bamboo wands, warm herbal compresses, and secluded outdoor soaking tubs that overlook the pristine Bacuit Bay.
Pangulasian Island Resorts El Nido faces a 750-yards white sand beach. Featuring an outdoor pool, spa and restaurant with outdoor seating, the resort offers luxurious and spacious villas with free WiFi.
The staff welcomes you with a heartfelt “welcome home,” and at that very moment you truly wish it could become your home. The resort is intimate and elegant, yet it retains a “wild” vibe thanks to its location, surrounded by the lush tropical nature with small monkeys and harmless monitor lizards.
Everything is provided for. From food, water, towels, kayaks, and everything the resort has to offer, nothing more will you need to add more.
We enjoyed multiple excursions, some complimentary and others private, and each one was more exciting than the last. We visited Little Lagoon, where we had the place to ourselves, and Secret Beach, which was an adventure to access. At the sister hotel, we snorkeled and fed fish, and even had a giant turtle swim by us!
Water Quality: 5 stars: Crystal clear, naturally filtered, and free of any unpleasant odors or contaminants.
Ease of Access: 3 stars: Moderate hike or challenging terrain with limited parking. (Requires a flight to Lio airport, a drive, and a boat transfer).
Ability to be Alone: 5 stars: Secluded pools or private soaking areas with minimal crowds.
Water Temperature: 4 stars: Comfortable soaking temperature with room for slight adjustment.
Health Benefits: 3 stars: Moderate mineral content, may offer general relaxation benefits.
Nearby Amenities: 5 stars: Spa services, restaurants, lodging options, and recreational activities within walking distance.
Webpage:El Nido Resorts Pangulasian
6. Sheridan Nature Spa
Located near the famous Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, the Sheridan Nature Spa offers a wellness retreat grounded in the jungle environment. They offer outdoor warm soaking tubs and traditional Hilot (Filipino massage) utilizing heated coconut oils and banana leaves, bridging the gap between clinical spas and nature therapy.
Note: Sadly this spa is closed, potentially will reopen.
Water Quality: 5 stars: Crystal clear, naturally filtered, and free of any unpleasant odors or contaminants.
Ease of Access: 5 stars: Easily accessible by paved road, with ample parking and clear signage. (A scenic 2-hour drive from Puerto Princesa city on paved roads).
Ability to be Alone: 4 stars: Larger pools with designated quiet zones or secluded areas available.
Water Temperature: 4 stars: Comfortable soaking temperature with room for slight adjustment.
Health Benefits: 3 stars: Moderate mineral content, may offer general relaxation benefits.
Nearby Amenities: 5 stars: Spa services, restaurants, lodging options, and recreational activities within walking distance.
Webpage:Sheridan Beach Resort
7. Glow Spa at Club Paradise Palawan
Club Paradise is an exclusive island resort in Coron that places a heavy emphasis on holistic wellness. The Glow Spa offers dedicated thermal hydro-massage baths. By drawing seawater, purifying it, and infusing it with local flora and heat, they mimic the restorative properties of Palawan's natural coastal springs.
Discovery Coron formerly Club Paradise Palawan is a one-hour drive from Calauit Safari and located on azure waters and an expansive 2297 foot pristine beach. This beachfront property offers a 24-hour outdoor pool, water sports, and free internet in public areas.
I love that the spa only sources coconut from local women making the oil in Coron. I love the traditional Filipino massages using banana leaves and tiba-tuba leaves.
The resort can arrange island tours and beach activities, while Dugong Dove Center offers diving courses. Other facilities include a spa, karaoke room and souvenir shops.
Water Quality: 5 stars: Crystal clear, naturally filtered, and free of any unpleasant odors or contaminants.
Ease of Access: 3 stars: Moderate hike or challenging terrain with limited parking. (Requires a van ride from Busuanga airport and a speedboat transfer).
Ability to be Alone: 5 stars: Secluded pools or private soaking areas with minimal crowds.
Water Temperature: 4 stars: Comfortable soaking temperature with room for slight adjustment.
Health Benefits: 3 stars: Moderate mineral content, may offer general relaxation benefits.
Nearby Amenities: 5 stars: Spa services, restaurants, lodging options, and recreational activities within walking distance.
8. Cauayan Island Resort Spa
Tucked away in a secluded cove, Cauayan Island Resort is a masterpiece of eco-architecture. Their spa is nestled high in the limestone cliffs. The thermal experience here focuses on heated infinity pools and warm herbal baths drawn for individual guests, looking out over the canopy and the sea.
Cauayan Boutique Private Island - formerly Cauayan Island Resort features and infinity pool, lots of opportunities and a restaurant which is needed since it’s a provate island!
One of the most fun activities is the chocolate facial and body wrap! The caffeine helps stimulate blood flow.
Water Quality: 5 stars: Crystal clear, naturally filtered, and free of any unpleasant odors or contaminants.
Ease of Access: 3 stars: Moderate hike or challenging terrain with limited parking. (Boat transfer required from El Nido town).
Ability to be Alone: 5 stars: Secluded pools or private soaking areas with minimal crowds.
Water Temperature: 4 stars: Comfortable soaking temperature with room for slight adjustment.
Health Benefits: 3 stars: Moderate mineral content, may offer general relaxation benefits.
Nearby Amenities: 5 stars: Spa services, restaurants, lodging options, and recreational activities within walking distance.
9. Princesa Garden Island Resort Spa
For those who prefer not to stray too far from the capital city of Puerto Princesa, this resort offers a sprawling wellness village. Their hydrotherapy circuit includes warm saline pools, saunas, and steam rooms, offering a highly accessible thermal wellness experience in the heart of Palawan.
The Princesa Garden Island Resort and Spa is a tropical sanctuary located just 2.1 miles from Puerto Princesa's city center and a convenient 15-minute drive from Puerto Princesa International Airport. The resort features Palawan's largest pool, spanning 1,640 square yards (17,652 square feet), and the longest pool at 656 feet (656 feet).
Dining options include an international buffet at Rice Coffee Shop, Italian cuisine at Tomato and Basil, light snacks at Sala Lobby Lounge, and nostalgic Filipino street food at Aling Elena.
Water Quality: 5 stars: Crystal clear, naturally filtered, and free of any unpleasant odors or contaminants.
Ease of Access: 5 stars: Easily accessible by paved road, with ample parking and clear signage. (Minutes from Puerto Princesa International Airport).
Ability to be Alone: 3 stars: Moderate crowds, but space to find some solitude.
Water Temperature: 5 stars: Multiple pools with varying temperatures to suit individual preferences.
Health Benefits: 3 stars: Moderate mineral content, may offer general relaxation benefits.
Nearby Amenities: 5 stars: Spa services, restaurants, lodging options, and recreational activities within walking distance.
10. Lagen Island Spa
Known as the "Eco-Sanctuary" island, Lagen is surrounded by a dense forest and a shallow lagoon. The spa here focuses on deep relaxation and recovery. While not geothermal, their signature heated baths are infused with local sea salt and essential oils, providing a sensory soak that channels the healing energy of the surrounding biosphere.
Water Quality: 5 stars: Crystal clear, naturally filtered, and free of any unpleasant odors or contaminants.
Ease of Access: 3 stars: Moderate hike or challenging terrain with limited parking. (Requires a dedicated boat transfer from the mainland).
Ability to be Alone: 5 stars: Secluded pools or private soaking areas with minimal crowds.
Water Temperature: 4 stars: Comfortable soaking temperature with room for slight adjustment.
Health Benefits: 3 stars: Moderate mineral content, may offer general relaxation benefits.
Nearby Amenities: 5 stars: Spa services, restaurants, lodging options, and recreational activities within walking distance.
