Palawan: El Nido's lagoons need a permit, and Port Barton is the quiet option

El Nido's island-hopping tours (A, B, C, D) are standardized, and the Big and Small Lagoons on Tour A now require a limited daily permit booked ahead through the tourism office or your operator. Go for a private boat if you're four or more; it costs little more. Port Barton, a few hours south, has the same water with a fraction of the visitors. Coron's wrecks and lakes are a separate trip by ferry or flight. Bring reef-safe sunscreen; it's required in some areas.