Palawan is truly a must go to island in the Philippines. I’ve been to Coron, and not so long ago to Puerto Princesa. As we planned, we thought of optimizing our vacation and see El Nido as well. Since I love privacy, we were choosing among the four El Nido Resorts. We ended up in Apulit Island as they could accommodate us during our planned visit. Have you heard of this island?
Apulit Island is one of the El Nido Resorts, managed by the same company that runs Pangulasian, Miniloc and Lagen Islands. The resort stands as a single island in Taytay, Northern Palawan hence secluded from touristy vibes. The other three resorts are located in El Nido. But this island did not disappoint at all. It definitely provided that exclusivity I was longing for. I guess I’ll have to see El Nido some other time.
So let me share with you our 2-day wonderful experience. Enjoy reading!
GETTING THERE
From Manila through El Nido
The most convenient access is via a chartered flight with Airswift from Manila. Following the flight, you’ll be provided with complimentary van transfer to Taytay Town Port which will take about 1.5 hour travel time. From Taytay Port, you’ll be picked up by the resort staff for a boat ride to Apulit Island.
From Puerto Princesa
Taytay town is also accessible by land from Puerto Princesa. You’ll have to book your own arrangements for this option.
We hired a van to drive us to Taytay Pier, which was a 6-hour land travel.
There is a waiting lounge provided by Apulit Island Resort exclusive for their guests. Snacks and beverages are served. The boat ride going to the island takes 50 minutes.
Round trip private boat transfer is inclusive in the accommodation that leaves on certain schedules;
- Taytay Port – Island ETD: 1030, 1330, 1500
- Island – Taytay Port ETD: 0730, 1130, 1300
Upon arrival, we were greeted by a group of singing staff. Suddenly, I remembered my trip to Santhiya Koh Yao Yai. It must be a thing among luxury resorts. This time, I made sure we stayed for two nights and I must say it was a perfect decision.
Sipping the welcome drink and waiting to be checked in, a brief orientation was conducted. And the more I got excited upon knowing what we could expect and the activities that we could do. As it is an eco-adventure resort, expect to see animals exclusively found in Palawan.
ACCOMMODATION
We stayed in a deluxe/loft water cottage. It is an over the water villa which has direct access to the beach. We did swimming on the torquoise water, day dreaming under the sun and simply relaxing.
DINING
All three major meals are included, except beverages, and served buffet type in their sole restaurant fronting the beach. Menu is changed each time so you’d look forward to every meal.
ACTIVITIES
Snorkeling
Snorkeling gears are available for free. We didn’t have to go that far as the water underneath our villa is already rich in sea life. This is ideal for family with children. We fell in love with those cute creatures under water.
There are other snorkeling reefs that you may explore if you wish to see more.
Kayaking
Believe it or not, it was my first time to do kayaking and it sure was fun. It was in fact the favorite thing I did. You could paddle as far as you want at your own pace. And you may park the kayak under your villa anytime you want to rest. Indeed, it was really convenient. Oh, and it is also free of charge.
Diving
If you want face to face with seascapes, scuba diving is for you. The resort has PADI Dive Center. My boys had their very first diving experience. They took the Diving for Children “Bubble Maker” course for PHP 3,780 per person. As long as I haven’t been to that swimming lesson I’ve been planning for so long, snorkeling is good enough for now. So, I cannot really share my personal experience about diving. But if diving is your thing, you should definitely give it a try.
Sunset watching
Philippines has one of the best sunset views. To witness such romantic and soul filling experience, a boat will take you to that perfect spot not too far away from the island at no extra cost. The sunset is one of the best you’ll ever see.
And if you can rise up early, you may also catch the sunrise cruise.
If you feel like doing something more, here are other things that you can do;
- Swim by the pool
- Indoor and outdoor family activities
- Nature walk, hike trail, cave tour, rapelling, rock climbing, cliff diving, fishing
- Island hopping to Nabat Island and Isla Blanca
- Other non motorized water sports such as paddle board, pedal boat, hobie cat and wind surf
- Other scheduled complimentary tours and activities
- Indulge in a spa
Most activities in the island are complimentary.
Tips
- Bring a dry bag for your water activities.
- Wear aqua shoes as well.
- Wifi is terrible. We didn’t come to spend our time on the internet anyway, right.
Overall experience was excellent! So if you’re looking for a tropical getaway with relaxed atmosphere, consider Apulit Island.
With love,
Sugar
