Beach Exploration Guide
The Twin Beaches of Palawan: Nacpan and Calitang
Among Palawan's countless beaches, the Twin Beaches—Nacpan and Calitang—stand out not just for their individual beauty, but for the spectacular coastal trail that connects them. Together, they offer one of El Nido's most rewarding beach experiences.
The Twin Beaches Overview
Nacpan and Calitang beaches sit adjacent to each other along Palawan's northern coast, separated by a rocky headland. A scenic 20-30 minute hiking trail over this headland connects the two, offering panoramic views of the coastline and both beaches stretching into the distance.
Quick Facts
- Nacpan Beach: 4 kilometers long, more developed
- Calitang Beach: 2 kilometers long, more remote
- Trail Distance: ~1 kilometer over headland
- Trail Duration: 20-30 minutes depending on pace
- Trail Difficulty: Moderate (some climbing, uneven terrain)
- Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon (cooler, better light)
Nacpan Beach: The Main Attraction
Nacpan is the larger and more accessible of the twin beaches. Its four-kilometer stretch of powder-soft sand and turquoise waters has earned recognition as one of the Philippines' most beautiful beaches. This is where you'll find the majority of facilities, accommodations, and visitors.
What Makes Nacpan Special
- • Expansive Shoreline: Four kilometers means plenty of space, even during peak season
- • Perfect Sand: Fine, white sand ideal for barefoot walking and lounging
- • Surfable Waves: Gentle waves suitable for bodyboarding and beginner surfing
- • Palm-Lined Shore: Coconut palms provide natural shade and that classic tropical aesthetic
- • Basic Facilities: Several beach restaurants, restrooms, and simple accommodations
Nacpan strikes a balance between development and natural beauty—enough infrastructure for comfort without sacrificing its pristine character. It's the perfect base for exploring the Twin Beaches.
Calitang Beach: The Hidden Gem
Calitang Beach remains relatively undiscovered compared to its famous twin. Smaller, quieter, and more remote, Calitang offers a more secluded beach experience. The two-kilometer crescent bay features the same beautiful sand and water but with a fraction of the visitors.
Why Visit Calitang
- • Solitude: Often nearly deserted, even during peak tourist season
- • Pristine Nature: More untouched, with minimal development
- • Dramatic Setting: Backed by lush hills and framed by rocky outcrops
- • Clear Waters: Excellent visibility for swimming and snorkeling
- • Peaceful Atmosphere: Perfect for relaxation without distractions
The main drawback? Limited facilities. Calitang has minimal infrastructure—one or two small refreshment stands at most, and no permanent accommodations. Bring supplies and plan to be self-sufficient.
Nacpan Beach Character
- • More visitors & social atmosphere
- • Beach restaurants & services
- • Accommodation options
- • Easier access & facilities
- • Perfect for full-day visits
Calitang Beach Character
- • Secluded & peaceful
- • Minimal facilities
- • No accommodations
- • Requires hiking to reach
- • Best for exploration & escape
The Coastal Trail Connection
The real magic of the Twin Beaches experience is the coastal trail linking them. This scenic path climbs over the rocky headland separating the beaches, offering breathtaking panoramic views of both bays and the surrounding coastline.
Trail Details
- Starting Point: Southern end of Nacpan Beach (near the restaurants)
- Distance: Approximately 1 kilometer
- Duration: 20-30 minutes one way (allow time for photos)
- Terrain: Rocky, uneven, involves climbing—proper footwear essential
- Difficulty: Moderate fitness required, not suitable for young children
- Facilities: None along the trail—bring water
What to Expect
The trail begins as a beach walk, transitioning to a rocky climb up the headland. As you ascend, views open up dramatically—Nacpan Beach stretching behind you, the coastline curving into the distance, and eventually Calitang Beach appearing ahead.
The highest point offers 360-degree views and is the trail's photographic highlight. From there, the path descends toward Calitang Beach, winding through vegetation and over rocks before emerging onto the sand.
Trail Safety & Preparation
- Footwear: Hiking sandals or trail shoes—flip-flops are unsafe
- Hydration: Bring at least 1 liter of water per person
- Timing: Avoid midday heat; early morning or late afternoon is ideal
- Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses—exposed trail
- Fitness: Assess your ability honestly; the trail includes steep sections
Planning Your Twin Beaches Visit
Strategy 1: Start at Nacpan, Explore Calitang
The most common approach: arrive at Nacpan Beach, enjoy swimming and lunch, then hike to Calitang in the afternoon. Spend an hour or two at Calitang, then either hike back or arrange transport to pick you up if your driver is willing (rare but possible).
Timeline: 8:00 AM arrival → Morning at Nacpan → 1:00 PM hike to Calitang → 3:00 PM return hike → 4:00 PM depart
Strategy 2: Calitang First, End at Nacpan
Ask your driver to drop you at Calitang Beach first (requires specific directions). Enjoy the peaceful morning, then hike to Nacpan for lunch and the afternoon. This works well if you value solitude in the morning and don't mind ending at the busier beach.
Strategy 3: Stay Overnight
Spend a night or two at Nacpan Beach accommodation. This allows you to explore both beaches at leisure, hike the trail at the best times (sunrise or late afternoon), and experience the area without time pressure. The most rewarding option for Twin Beaches enthusiasts.
What to Bring for Both Beaches:
- ✓ 2+ liters water per person
- ✓ Trail-appropriate footwear
- ✓ Swimwear for both beaches
- ✓ Snacks & lunch (if visiting Calitang)
- ✓ Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
- ✓ Camera or phone (charged)
- ✓ Small daypack
- ✓ Trash bag (pack out waste)
- ✓ Towel
- ✓ First aid basics
Photography Tips
The Twin Beaches offer incredible photo opportunities, especially from the trail viewpoints:
- • Golden Hour: Sunrise and sunset light creates magical colors along both beaches
- • Trail Viewpoint: Capture panoramic shots of the curved coastline from the trail's peak
- • Beach Framing: Use palm trees to frame shots of the expansive shorelines
- • Aerial Perspective: The trail's elevated sections provide natural "drone-like" views
- • Action Shots: Capture hikers on the trail with the beaches in the background
Best Time to Visit the Twin Beaches
The dry season (November-May) offers the best conditions for both beaches and the connecting trail. During rainy season, the trail can become slippery and dangerous, and rough seas may make swimming less enjoyable.
Within the dry season, March-April provides the clearest water and warmest weather, while November-December offers cooler temperatures ideal for hiking. The trail is manageable year-round for fit hikers, but wet season requires extra caution.
Why the Twin Beaches Experience Matters
In an era where many of the Philippines' famous beaches have become overdeveloped or overcrowded, the Twin Beaches represent something special: natural beauty maintained, accessibility balanced with remoteness, and reward proportional to effort.
The trail connecting Nacpan and Calitang isn't just a physical link—it's what elevates a beach visit into an adventure. You earn your views, discover a hidden beach, and experience the coastline from perspectives most visitors never see.
Whether you spend an hour hiking between beaches or dedicate days to exploring them thoroughly, the Twin Beaches offer one of Palawan's most rewarding coastal experiences.
Plan Your Twin Beaches Adventure
Ready to explore Nacpan and Calitang beaches? Start planning with our detailed guides: