Palawan’s Beloved Local brews
I’ve spent over 10 years living here in Palawan — split between the quiet corners of Coron and the vibrant shores of El Nido. I’ve watched these places grow from sleepy fishing towns into bucket-list destinations. But no matter how much changes, one thing stays constant: our love for local brews. It’s not just about drinking. It’s about tradition, resourcefulness, and community.
Locals here have long known how to turn what the land gives us into something special. You’ll find drinks made from cashew fruit, coconut sap, native citrus, even pandan leaves, each with its own story, its own occasion. We sip calamansi juice on hot afternoons, pass around bottles of Tuba during celebrations, and brew strong Lamayo coffee to start the day. And in recent years, craft beer has started making a quiet name for itself too, often brewed in small batches, using island ingredients you won’t find anywhere else.
Now, I’ll try not to bore the hell out of you, so I’ll keep everything simple — no fancy jargon or tasting notes. Just the good stuff. If you’re visiting and really want to experience Palawan beyond the postcards, start with the brews. They’re not just refreshing — they’re a living part of our culture.
Must-Try Local Brews in Palawan
Local Brews and Drinks in Coron
1. Cashew Wine
Description:
Made from locally grown cashew nuts, this unique wine offers a slightly sweet and nutty flavor.
Where to Find:
Look for small shops or local markets that sell homemade versions.
2. Tuba (Palm Wine)
Description:
A traditional Filipino wine made from the sap of coconut trees. Tuba is mildly sweet with a subtle coconut flavor.
Best Enjoyed:
Fresh and chilled, often served in small roadside stalls or family eateries.
3. Calamansi Juice
Description:
Made from the native calamansi citrus fruit, this juice is tangy, refreshing, and vitamin-rich.
Tip:
Mix it with honey or a dash of ginger for added flavor.
4. Lamayo Coffee
Description:
A signature Palawan coffee blend, often featuring Liberica beans known for their bold taste.
Experience:
Perfect for early mornings or a quiet seaside sunset.
5. Buko Juice (Fresh Coconut Water)
Description:
Straight from the young coconut, this natural drink is hydrating and delicious.
Where to Find:
Widely available at markets and beachside stalls.
Local Brews and Drinks in El Nido
6. Fresh Fruit Shakes
Description:
El Nido’s tropical setting is perfect for icy fruit shakes made with fresh mango, pineapple, banana, or papaya.
Ideal For:
Cooling down after a day of snorkeling or hiking.
7. Nipa Wine (Lambanog)
Description:
A distilled coconut spirit, strong and aromatic, locally referred to as Lambanog.
How to Drink:
Best enjoyed neat or mixed into tropical cocktails.
8. Pandan Tea
Description:
A lightly sweet, fragrant tea brewed from pandan leaves — calming and aromatic.
Best Served:
Hot, in small local eateries or as a digestif.
9. Dalandan Juice
Description:
Made from dalandan, a native citrus fruit with a sweet-tart flavor.
Perfect With:
Grilled seafood or beachside snacks.
10. El Nido Craft Beers
Description:
A growing scene of local craft beers brewed on-site or regionally, offering creative flavors unique to Palawan.
Where to Try:
Beachfront bars, local pubs, and select restaurants.
Tips for Tasting Local Beverages in Palawan
Visit Local Markets:
Stroll through the markets in Coron and El Nido to discover homemade drinks and traditional ingredients.Relax at Beachside Bars & Cafes:
These casual spots often feature local brews and island-inspired cocktails.Explore Coconut-Based Drinks:
Buko juice, Tuba, and Lambanog are staples of Filipino beverage culture.Talk to Locals:
Strike up a conversation — many locals are happy to recommend their favorite hidden drink spots or family recipes.Pair With Local Cuisine:
Try calamansi juice with grilled fish or craft beer with sizzling pork dishes for a true taste of Palawan.
The flavors of Coron and El Nido go far beyond their world-famous landscapes. Whether you’re sipping a glass of homemade cashew wine or enjoying a chilled craft beer on the beach, each drink tells a story. Don’t just visit — taste the islands..
