Where to Find the Best Accommodation in Palawan, Philippines

Do you ever arrive at a place—whether it’s a hotel, Airbnb, or hostel—and immediately feel like it sets the tone for your trip? Because I always get a vibe from my accommodation as soon as I step in. It doesn’t always make or break an experience, but it can definitely shape it.

Throughout my travels, I’ve stayed in hundreds of accommodations—hostels, campsites, homestays, hotels, and Airbnbs. Some have made a destination even more memorable, while others have completely dampened the experience. That’s why I always appreciate when a place gives me a great first impression, making me feel instantly at ease.

When I arrived in El Nido, Palawan, I had heard mixed reviews. People told me it was crowded, overpriced, and overrun with tourists. I had already set my expectations low, assuming I’d have to deal with the chaos just to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding islands. But let me tell you—my accommodation choice completely changed my experience. I didn’t feel the overwhelming busyness that so many other travelers talked about. Instead, I found a peaceful, welcoming spot that allowed me to fully appreciate El Nido’s natural beauty without the stress of being in the center of town.

So, if you’re heading to Palawan and looking for a place to stay in El Nido that offers relaxation, stunning views, and an amazing community—without being right in the middle of the chaos—keep reading. This hostel isn’t just my favorite in Palawan. It’s one of my favorite hostels in the world.

Oia Beach Hostel: A Hidden Gem in El Nido

Oia Beach Hostel is located about a 15-minute walk from the center of El Nido, but the walk itself is part of the charm. Instead of dodging traffic, crowds, and tourist shops, you stroll along a gorgeous beach with breathtaking views of towering limestone cliffs and lush green mountains. The scenery feels straight out of a postcard—palm trees, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful mountains all around you. 

It’s a walk that instantly puts you in a relaxed, tropical mindset. By the time you reach the hostel, you already feel like you’ve arrived somewhere special.

As the name suggests, Oia Beach Hostel is located directly on the beach, making it an unreal spot to wake up, unwind, and fall asleep to the sound of waves. The beach itself is quiet and picturesque, with only a few other accommodations nearby, so it never feels crowded.

The moment I arrived, I knew I was in the right place. The entire setup of the hostel is designed to make the most of its beachfront location, with open spaces, hammocks, and cozy seating areas where you can soak in the view.

The Atmosphere: Instant Community

One of the first things that stood out to me about Oia Beach Hostel was the atmosphere. Some hostels feel transactional—you check in, get a bed, and go about your day without much interaction. But here, I felt welcomed immediately.

The mix of volunteers, local staff, and friendly travelers created an environment that felt more like a community than just a place to sleep. The people working at the hostel went out of their way to introduce me to other guests, give recommendations, and genuinely connect. Within hours of arriving, I had already made new friends, joined a beachside gathering, and felt completely at home.

The crowd here was a mix of solo travelers, backpackers, and long-term wanderers, all with a shared appreciation for slow, meaningful travel. Whether you wanted to relax on your own, socialize over drinks, or join in on a beach bonfire, there was always a space for you.

The Rooms: Simple But Comfortable

I stayed in an 8-bed dorm, which had all the essentials for a comfortable stay—privacy curtains, a soft mattress, air conditioning, and even a towel included (a rare bonus in many hostels!). The dorms were well-kept, and I never felt cramped or uncomfortable.

The shared showers and toilets were located at the back of the hostel and were clean and well-maintained, with hot water available—which is always a nice surprise in Southeast Asia. While the rooms themselves weren’t anything overly luxurious, they were cozy, quiet, and provided everything I needed for a restful night.

But let’s be honest—I wasn’t spending much time in the dorms. The real magic of Oia Beach Hostel was in the common areas.

The Common Area: Everything You Could Need

The common space here is massive and has everything you could want in a social hostel.

• The bar area: The hostel has a bar serving affordable drinks and food, which is a lifesaver since town prices can be steep. They offered a mix of Filipino and Western dishes at much lower prices than most restaurants in El Nido.
• A tattoo and piercing shop: One of the locals ran a small tattoo shop right at the hostel, and I ended up getting a tattoo here. It was a special way to remember my time at Oia Beach Hostel, and the artist did an incredible job.
• Games and activities: There was a ping-pong table, a pool table, and even areas to skateboard. Whether you wanted to stay active or just hang out, there was always something to do.
• Plenty of seating: There were bar-style tables, dinner-style tables for working or socializing, and bean bags everywhere. It was the perfect setup for travelers who wanted to get some work done, chat with others, or just chill out.
• An upper-level lounge area: This was by far my favorite part of the hostel. The second floor had hammocks, more bean bags, and even nets hanging over the edge where you could lie down and watch the waves. There was also a projector for movie nights, making it an amazing place to wind down in the evenings.