Palaui Island Protected Landscape and Seascape is a protected area and national park in the town of Santa Ana in Cagayan, Philippines. It is located off the northeastern extremity of Luzon Island, the largest island in the country by Joyfulwandering
Palaui Island, Cagayan: A Raw, Untouched Paradise at the Edge of Luzon
Palaui Island is one of the Philippines’ most breathtakingly unspoiled destinations — a place where rugged cliffs meet turquoise waters, where forests remain wild, and where beaches feel like they belong to another era. Located at the northeastern tip of Luzon, this island in Cagayan Province is a sanctuary for nature lovers, hikers, and travelers seeking a raw, authentic escape.
The Palaui Island Protected Landscape and Seascape is an island that is protected area and national park.
Palaui Island was declared as a National Marine Reserve on August 28, 1994, encompassing an area of 7,145 hectares (17,660 acres). The waters around the island boast of 21 commercial species of fishes with about 50 hectares (120 acres) of undisturbed corals. Palaui Island is a sanctuary for 90 migratory birds.
It’s also famous for being a filming location of Survivor USA, which showcased its dramatic landscapes to the world.
Demographic Overview
- Island Group: Luzon Island Group
- Region:
- Cagayan Valley (Region II)
- Province:
- Cagayan
- Town(s):
- Santa Ana
- Known as Palaui Island Marine Reserve
- Island Barangays: 1 (part of Barangay San Vicente)
- Island’s population 2020 census: unknown
- Land area: 27.66 sq. kilometers (10.68 sq. miles)
- Sea borders: Include the South China Sea and the Philippine Sea.
by Jepoy Travels
Santa Ana, Cagayan: The Gateway to Palaui
- 2020 population: 35,688 residents
- Barangays: 16 (all on the mainland of Luzon)
Palaui Island belongs to the municipality of Santa Ana, a coastal town known for its fishing communities, scenic beaches, and its role as the jump‑off point to the island.
What to Know About Santa Ana:
- Located at the northeastern most tip of Luzon
- Home to Port San Vicente, the main departure points for boats to Palaui
- Hosts the Cagayan Special Economic Zone and Freeport (CEZA)
- Offers accommodations, restaurants, and tour services for Palaui-bound travelers
- Known for its own beaches like Anguib Beach and Pozo Robo Beach
Santa Ana is the perfect base for exploring Palaui — close enough for convenience, but still quiet and laid‑back.
by jonLee
Top Tourism Spots on Palaui Island
1. Cape Engaño Lighthouse
The crown jewel of Palaui. Built in 1892, this Spanish-era lighthouse sits atop a hill overlooking the Babuyan Sea and the Dos Hermanas Islands.
Why it’s special:
- Panoramic views of cliffs, coves, and rolling hills
- A scenic 20–30-minute hike from the beach landing
- One of the most photogenic lighthouses in the Philippines
This is the spot that made Palaui internationally famous.
2. Cape Engaño Cove (Siwangag Cove)
A serene, crescent-shaped cove where boats dock before the hike to the lighthouse. Its calm waters and white sand make it a perfect place to relax after trekking.
Best for:
- Swimming
- Picnics
- Photography
3. Anguib Beach (nearby Santa Ana)
Though technically on the mainland, Anguib Beach is often paired with Palaui tours. It features powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters reminiscent of Boracay — but without the crowds.
Activities:
- Kayaking
- Beach lounging
- Snorkeling
4. Trekking Trails (Lagunzad & Leonardo Trails)
Palaui is a protected landscape and seascape, home to forests, mangroves, and wildlife. Its trails are perfect for eco‑travelers.
Highlights:
- Dense forests
- Birdwatching
- Water streams and natural viewpoints
The Lagunzad Trail is scenic and moderate, while the Leonardo Trail is more challenging and rugged.
5. Snorkeling & Marine Sanctuaries
Palaui’s waters are rich with marine life, coral gardens, and clear visibility.
by Noel Soriano
Expect to see:
- Colorful reef fish
- Hard and soft corals
- Sea turtles (occasionally)
Local guides can take you to the best underwater spots.
6. Punta Verde Community
This is the main barangay on the island — a small, warm community where visitors can experience local life.
What you’ll find:
- Homestays
- Local guides
- Simple eateries
- Friendly residents
It’s a great place to learn about Palaui’s culture and conservation efforts.
How to Get to Palaui Island
Traveling to Palaui is part of the adventure.
- Go to Santa Ana, Cagayan
- From Tuguegarao: 3–4 hours by bus or van
- From Manila: Flights to Tuguegarao or direct land travel (10–12 hours)
- Head to Port San Vicente
- The main jump‑off point for island tours
- Take a boat to Palaui
- Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Boats are arranged through accredited guides or the tourism office
Why Palaui Island Is Special
Palaui stands out because it is:
- Wild and untouched — no large resorts, no commercialization
- Scenic — cliffs, coves, hills, and beaches in one destination
- Culturally rich — home to a small, resilient island community
- Eco-protected — a haven for wildlife and marine life
- Adventure-ready — perfect for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers
by Top Tourist Destinations in the Philippines