If you’re chasing an escape from the usual, Starfish Island in Palawan offers a calm, quirky kind of magic that’s hard to put into words. It’s a small nature preserve that’s famous for, well, starfish — like, tons of them. You’ll find these colorful sea stars scattered across shallow waters, quietly lending a chill vibe to the whole place. It’s not your flashy, overcrowded tourist trap. Nope, it’s more of a laid-back spot where you can really get close to nature and breathe in that salty sea air without a thousand selfie sticks in your face.
Now, fair warning: this ain’t exactly a “wheelchair-friendly” park. The entrance and parking don't accommodate wheelchairs, so keep that in mind if that’s a concern for you or your group. But if you’re bringing kiddos, it’s a surprisingly good spot. The kids tend to get wide-eyed over the starfish and shallow, calm waters, making this a sweet place to introduce young ones to marine life without a lot of hassle.
The island itself is small and simple—no fancy resorts or glass-bottom boats here. Just a clean stretch of sand, crystal-clear water, and a bunch of starfish doing their slow, star-shaped dance on the lagoon floor. The vibe is gentle and unpretentious. You won’t find cavernous crowds or loud beach bars blasting the latest pop hit. Instead, you get a chill, natural spot that feels like someone preserved a tiny corner of untouched paradise just for you — and it’s perfect if you’re the kind of traveler who appreciates the quiet, off-the-beaten-path kind of beauty.
I remember on my first trip there, I spent hours just watching these starfish move their tiny tube feet, which honestly was way more fascinating than I expected. It’s a spot that invites you to slow down and soak in the little moments—sometimes those unassuming experiences are what stick with you the longest.
Starfish Island is also a popular day-trip location for visitors staying in nearby San Vicente or even Port Barton. You might hear it’s more of a quick stop, but trust me, if you’re patient, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here without the usual tourist scramble.
The water is calm and shallow enough to wade in, so bring your snorkel gear—you don’t need to be a pro to enjoy what’s beneath the surface. And bonus: the sea life isn’t limited to starfish alone. Small fish dart about and the coral formations close to shore add a richer texture to your swim. Just be cautious when handling the starfish — they’re fragile little creatures and need to be left safely in their homes.
Overall, if your idea of a good time involves a blend of nature, a bit of scientific curiosity, some kids asking "Why is this here?", and zero pressure to “do it all,” Starfish Island is a quiet gem worth carving out time for during your Palawan adventure.
