Palaui Island

Palaui Island is a protected island off the northeastern tip of Luzon in Santa Ana, Cagayan, Philippines. Designated as the Palaui Island Protected Landscape and Seascape, it is known for its rugged coastline, white-sand beaches, volcanic rocks, and forested interior. The island features the historic Cape Engaño Lighthouse, diverse marine and terrestrial biodiversity, and traditional fishing communities, making it a notable ecotourism and nature destination in northern Philippines.

Visitors reach Palaui Island by motorized boat from San Vicente Port in Santa Ana and explore on foot with a local guide. The island offers white-sand coves such as Siwangag Cove and Punta Verde, forested trails, grasslands, and rocky coastlines. The main landmark is the Cape Engaño Lighthouse on the northern tip, accessible via a hike with coastal views. There are small fishing settlements, limited facilities, and opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, camping, and nature observation in a protected landscape and seascape setting.

Palaui Island is known for the Cape Engaño Lighthouse, built in 1892 during the Spanish colonial period to guide ships around the Babuyan Channel and northeastern Luzon. The island was declared a National Marine Reserve in 1994 and later as the Palaui Island Protected Landscape and Seascape, recognizing its natural and historical value.

The island is home to small fishing communities, primarily in Barangay San Vicente and Punta Verde, whose livelihoods depend on fishing and community-based ecotourism. Local guides and boat operators play a central role in visitor management within the protected area.