The hype
Families love the waterpark and friendly staff, but couples often feel trapped by the isolation and noise.
Astoria Palawan Resort
$65-150 / gabi
I-book ito kung You're a family with energetic kids who value a massive waterpark over a swimmable beach or city nightlife.
Bakit Ito Minamahal ng Mga Tao
- The Palawan Waterpark is a legitimate thrill for kids and teens
- Massive pool complex that makes up for the lack of a swimmable ocean
- Closer to the Underground River than city hotels, saving you travel time on tour day
Mabilis na Sumisid: A self-contained family compound that feels less like a tropical escape and more like a high-end aquatic theme park in the middle of nowhere.
Sinuri ng @skytrip.film: I felt like a total VIP arriving here! The staff greeted us with a personalized sign and drinks, which was such a sweet surprise. The room was super colorful and the pool is just massive. It’s the perfect spot to disconnect and just enjoy the sun.
Sabi ng mga Nananatili Dito
Reality check
The 'captive audience' pricing on food and transport frustrates guests who didn't realize how far they are from civilization.
- Your kids can spend 8 hours a day in a wave pool
- You plan to visit the Underground River (it's closer from here)
- You want a resort where you never have to leave the property
Kalinisan & Pagpapanatili
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally reliable daily service, though some guests report missed spots or delays during peak occupancy.
- Bathroom hygiene: Mostly sparkling, but occasional reports of ants or weak water pressure in upper-floor Annex rooms.
- Maintenance: The property is aging; look out for peeling paint or 'damp' smells in older blocks. Construction is ongoing to fix this.
- Linens & towels: Standard hotel quality, but high humidity can make them feel perpetually damp if AC isn't cranked up.
- Odors & scents: Lobby is fresh, but some rooms have a lingering musty/humid smell common in the tropics.
Sleepability™
6.5KATAMTAMAN
0-4MAINGAY
4-7.5KATAMTAMAN
7.5-10TAHIMIK
- Neighbors in connecting rooms
- Hallway noise in Annex buildings
- Ongoing construction/maintenance works
Bago ka mag-book
Magandang Malaman
- Airport transfers via the hotel can cost ~PHP 3,500+; booking a private van via Klook or Viator is often 50% cheaper
- Breakfast is PHP 1,000 (~$18) per person if not included in your rate—book a rate with breakfast to save money
- The resort is strictly non-smoking in most areas
Ano ang dapat dalhin
- Insect repellent (essential for sandflies/nikniks on the beach)
- Snacks and drinks (you are miles from a convenience store)
- Aqua shoes (if you attempt to wade in the rocky low-tide beach)
Genie ng Kuwarto
Mga Pinakamahusay na Pilihan
- One-Bedroom Villa: Standalone structure offers significantly more privacy and quiet than the hotel blocks
- Poolside Rooms: Good for families who want direct access, but expect daytime noise
Mga Kuwartong Dapat Iwasan
- Annex Rooms with connecting doors (unless you booked both)
- Rooms facing the construction site (ask specifically at check-in)
Room Request Genie – kopyahin at i-paste
“I am a light sleeper and kindly request a room on the top floor of a finished building, strictly away from any ongoing construction or renovation work. If possible, please avoid rooms with connecting doors unless soundproofing is verified.”
FAQ & Mga Nakatagong Tip
Lahat ng kailangan mong malaman bago ka magbook.
Is the waterpark free for guests?
Usually, yes, but often only for a ONE-TIME entry per stay, not unlimited daily access. Verify your specific booking terms.
Can I swim in the beach?
Technically yes, but practically no. It is shallow, rocky, prone to low tides, and has sandflies. Stick to the pools.
How far is the Underground River?
It is about 1 hour and 15 minutes by car to the Sabang Wharf, which is actually closer than coming from the city center (2 hours).
Are there restaurants nearby?
Very few. 'Sandybridge Eco Farm' is about 1.8 miles away, but otherwise, you are reliant on the hotel's buffet and restaurants.
Is there a shuttle to the city?
Shuttles are available but often chargeable and run on a schedule. A private tricycle or van hire is expensive due to the 60km distance.
Is there WiFi?
Yes, free WiFi is available, but speeds can be inconsistent given the remote location.
Mga Insider Tips
- ✨
Book your Underground River tour to start from the hotel—you save an hour of travel time compared to guests coming from the city.
- ✨
Walk to 'Sandybridge Eco Farm' (or take a quick trike) for a rustic, cheaper meal if you get tired of the hotel buffet.
- ✨
Buy a 'day pass' for the waterpark if you are a local or staying elsewhere; it often includes a buffet lunch which is a good deal.
5 bagay na dapat mong malaman bago ka umalis
💡The 'Niknik' (sandfly) situation on the beach is real—bites are itchier than mosquito bites and last for weeks.
💡You are a captive audience for food; buffet prices reflect this lack of competition.
💡The 'Annex' rooms have paper-thin walls; you might hear your neighbor's TV clearly.
💡The waterpark has a strict dress code (no zippers/buttons on swimwear) to protect the slides.
💡Getting a Grab or taxi from the hotel to the city is difficult; you must pre-arrange transport.
Lokal na Playbook
Mapa
Makita kung nasaan ang Astoria Palawan Resort at ano ang malapit sa lugar.