Banwa Private Island

Banwa Private Island is set in the remote waters of north-eastern Palawan in the Sulu Sea, surrounded by powder-soft beaches and protected marine landscapes. Home to just six beachfront villas, the island offers a highly exclusive experience focused on privacy, personalised service and complete immersion in nature. The surrounding waters are rich with marine life, including endangered Hawksbill turtles, and close to one of the top 10 diving sites in the world. For travellers seeking a truly secluded luxury vacation to the Philippines, Banwa Private Island delivers exceptional privacy, outstanding dining and a rare connection to the natural world.

Accommodation

The six beachfront pool villas are designed to maximise the island’s natural setting, with floor-to-ceiling windows, spacious terraces and direct beach access. Interiors are contemporary and understated, with open-plan living spaces that keep the focus on the sea views outside. Each villa also comes with a private pool and generous indoor and outdoor lounging areas.

Food & drink

Dining is entirely tailored to you, following the island’s “your island, your menu” philosophy. Menus focus on fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and seasonal ingredients, and you can opt to have your meals served at a variety of private locations across the island.

Experiences

Days revolve around the ocean, with snorkelling, diving, paddleboarding and island-hopping excursions all easily arranged. The surrounding marine reserve offers exceptional wildlife encounters, with private boat trips and sunset cruises being a particular highlight. Back on land, guests can unwind with spa treatments, wellness sessions or simply spend time enjoying the island’s beaches in complete privacy.

Sustainability

Banwa Private Island sits within a protected marine area and places conservation at the centre of the guest experience. The property actively supports marine research and endangered species protection, particularly for Hawksbill turtles and local reef systems. Sustainability initiatives focus on preserving the surrounding ecosystem while maintaining low-impact operations across the island.

Children

Children are welcome, though the property is best suited to families with older children due to the island’s remote setting and strong focus on wellness and marine activities.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Palawan is between November and May, when conditions are dry, sunny and ideal for island activities and diving. March to May generally offers the calmest seas and clearest visibility for snorkelling and marine experiences.

How to get there

Fly to Manila, then take a domestic flight to Palawan, followed by a private boat or helicopter transfer arranged directly through the property.