When we think of Palawan, we often picture Puerto Princesa’s crystal-clear waters, El Nido’s magnificent limestone cliffs, and Coron’s picturesque views. However, there’s another destination worth exploring if you’re after quieter yet equally scenic landscapes.
Photo: WhenInManila.com
Meet Busuanga, a third-class municipality in the province of Palawan. For many travelers, Busuanga primarily serves as a gateway to Coron, with the Francisco B. Reyes Airport welcoming visitors to the area. But there’s more to Busuanga than simply being a stopover on the way to Coron.
Here are some things you can do in Busuanga that might just make you fall in love with the destination even more:
1. Check in at Yunara Resort
Busuanga can be your home for the next few days, and Yunara Resort makes that stay memorable.
Photo: WhenInManila.com
An intimate coastal retreat situated in the heart of Northern Busuanga, Yunara serves as a quiet sanctuary for travelers who want to slow down, unwind, and reconnect with nature. Managed by Approche Hospitality Management, the six-storey hotel offers rooms with either mountain views or views overlooking the sea.
Photo: WhenInManila.com
During our stay, we checked into their Deluxe Sea View room. The 25-square-meter space has everything you need for a restful stay: an air-conditioned room, a soft bed that makes it difficult to get out of, ample storage for your necessities, and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer a glimpse of the stunning views outside.
Apart from its relaxing hotel rooms, what also stood out were the dining destinations within Yunara: Aurora Modern Filipino Seafood and Briza Bar & Bistro. Aurora Modern Filipino Seafood spotlights local produce and Filipino flavors, where guests are treated to elevated yet approachable dishes. Meanwhile, Briza Bar & Bistro serves as a lively gathering place for guests looking to enjoy drinks by the beach and laid-back evenings.
Photo: WhenInManila.com
As both dining destinations are still on a journey of establishing their identity, they are still finding their footing. But we can already envision how these spots can become memorable destinations once they are filled with locals and travelers from around the world.
But what makes a Filipino hotel stand out will always be its warm and genuine hospitality. Throughout our stay, we were welcomed and accommodated by the kind staff, who would greet us as we passed by and happily attend to our concerns or inquiries. Our stay at Yunara definitely set a strong tone for the rest of our time in Busuanga, especially with the resort’s selection of immersive experiences for guests to enjoy.
While the resort is still establishing its presence in Busuanga, it already shows plenty of promise. It welcomes you with a warm embrace, allowing you to experience this lesser-known destination with a different perspective.
As of writing, Yunara offers an introductory rate of P3,200 for two guests (room only), inclusive of airport transfers.
2. Go on a river cruise
Traveling is more than visiting popular sightseeing destinations and lounging in your hotel room for hours. It’s also about getting to know the people in the area and immersing yourself in the local culture.
Photo: WhenInManila.com
We got to learn more about the people and how they call Busuanga home through the Cheey Aquaculture and Fisherfolk Association (CAFA). Through the organization, we were able to interact with locals, try their delicacies (their nipa shake is something you shouldn’t leave Busuanga without trying), and enjoy a guided river cruise or kayaking experience.
3. Go on a proper island-hopping tour
A trip to Busuanga would never be complete without an island-hopping tour!
Photo: WhenInManila.com
Thankfully, if you’re staying at Yunara Resort, you can easily turn your island-hopping plans into reality. Explore Northern Busuanga by visiting three scenic islands: Dimipak Turtle Island, Ditugtog Island, and Maltanubong Island. The island-hopping tour is available for P2,000 per person.
These hidden islands are even more beautiful in person—something no photograph can truly capture. You have to be there to fully immerse yourself and live in the moment. Even for a short while, take the time to feel the sun on your skin, swim along the shore, or make friends with fellow travelers.
4. Experience dugong and turtle watching
Aside from the fun island-hopping experience, you can also book a dugong tour when you’re at Yunara. The tour already includes an outrigger boat, a friendly and accommodating tour guide, entrance and environmental fees, a beach towel, and a packed lunch.
You don’t have to stress too much—just enjoy being out in the middle of the sea as you watch dugongs swim or turtles surface nearby. Even if you’re not a swimmer (just like this article’s writer), you can still enjoy the experience! You’ll be provided with life vests and briefed on a set of safety instructions, while a guide will be there throughout the 15 minutes you spend swimming with the dugongs. Rather than feeling intimidated or terrified, you’ll likely find yourself grateful to have experienced it firsthand. Of course, those with swimming and diving skills will be able to make the most of the experience.
For the tour to proceed, there must be a minimum of four participants to form a group. From there, guests are expected to strictly follow the guidelines, including not touching the marine animals or disturbing their natural habitat. By following these rules, you’re not only respecting the marine life and its environment, but also helping fellow guests enjoy the experience responsibly.
5. Unwind and enjoy the island life
When you’re in Busuanga, thinking about finishing a deadline or worrying about what’s happening back home feels almost unfair. Truly, there’s more to life than sitting in front of your laptop or mindlessly scrolling through your phone.
Photo: WhenInManila.com
The best way to unwind is to disconnect from the digital world and take in the views around you. If you’ve checked in at Yunara, you can experience a different kind of appreciation for island life. Waking up early may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but we recommend getting up just in time for sunrise. From the stunning beachfront, you can simply walk along the shore and enjoy the beautiful Palawan sunrise while taking a quiet moment to reflect.
Then, you can either jog around the area to make the most of your morning. For those who prefer to take it slow, bringing a book, swimming in the pool or at the beach, or simply taking in the views can be just as rewarding. At Yunara, there are plenty of services and amenities to enjoy, but simply being surrounded by nature and the island’s peaceful atmosphere can be relaxing in its own way.
If this article has convinced you to experience Busuanga, consider this your sign to book that flight soon!
Photo: WhenInManila.com
Fortunately, getting there is now more convenient, as Sunlight Air offers direct flights from Clark International Airport (CRK) to Francisco B. Reyes Airport in Busuanga.
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