Isla Blanca is a serene, relatively undiscovered island in Taytay, Palawan, known for its vast stretches of powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and abundant marine life, making it ideal for snorkeling, diving, and quiet escapes.

Nestled within Taytay Bay, this secluded island is among Palawan’s most overlooked treasures. It is an excellent destination for those seeking a peaceful island-hopping experience away from the crowds of more popular Palawan spots like El Nido and Coron.

In contrast to the bustling tourist hubs of El Nido and Coron, Taytay provides a more tranquil experience, with Isla Blanca standing out as a pristine island where nature and serenity prevail.

Isla Blanca, which translates to “White Island”, truly embodies its name with a striking sandbar made of crushed coral that emerges from the clear azure sea. Unlike bustling tourist hubs, it presents a peaceful setting where one might even find the entire island to themselves.

• Snorkeling and Diving: The island is renowned for its impressive underwater ecosystem. The reefs surrounding its coastline are filled with vibrant live corals, creating a paradise for snorkelers. For certified divers, Taytay Bay features limestone cliffs and underwater caves, with a notable drop-off that descends about 40 meters, rich in diverse marine life.
• Beach Camping and Picnics: This small, uninhabited island is adorned with large shade trees, making it an ideal location for a picnic lunch during an island-hopping tour. Certain tours permit overnight stays, allowing visitors to sleep beneath the stars.
• Panoramic Views: A short trek up a hill on the island leads to a viewdeck that provides a 360-degree panorama of the entire Taytay Bay.
• Nature and Wildlife: The area is declared a protected marine reserve (Quimbaludan Marine Reserve), and fortunate visitors may even encounter the tracks of large sea turtles on the sandy shore.
• Photography: The island’s untouched natural beauty renders it a dream for landscape and travel photographers.

• Secluded beauty: The island draws fewer visitors, making it ideal for travelers seeking peace and solitude.
• Crystal-clear waters: Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, with visibility that reveals vibrant coral reefs.
• Marine biodiversity: Expect to encounter schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks.
• White sand beach: A long stretch of fine sand invites leisurely walks and sunbathing.
• Island hopping: Isla Blanca is often included in Taytay’s island-hopping excursions, alongside Apulit Island and other nearby islets.

Isla Blanca is the kind of destination that rewards those who venture off the conventional path. It is an escape into a quieter, more authentic aspect of Palawan, evoking a sense of complete immersion in nature away from the crowds.

Isla Blanca offers a tranquil retreat surrounded by pristine beaches, clear waters, and vibrant reefs, making it an essential destination for nature enthusiasts, snorkelers, and travelers in search of a calm and less populated Palawan experience. Its accessibility from Taytay town, along with nearby activities and resorts, ensures a memorable island getaway.

Proper planning is advisable, though, including reserving a boat tour in advance and preparing for self-arranged provisioning due to the limited availability of organized services.