Christmas in the Philippines usually means Noche Buena spreads, overflowing gifts, and someone holding the karaoke mic hostage until sunrise. But last year, I found myself craving something quieter. Something slower. Something that felt like a deep breath after a long year. That’s how I ended up celebrating the holidays at Four Points Palawan — and honestly, it changed the way I want to spend Christmas forever.
If you’ve never heard of it, Four Points by Sheraton Palawan is a Marriott Bonvoy resort sitting on 5.2 hectares of pure serenity. It’s tucked along Sabang Beach, surrounded by untouched nature, and just a few minutes away from the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site I’ve always kept on my bucket list. Right beside it are the Sabang Mangrove Forest and other eco-gems that make you ask yourself why you ever settled for mall Christmases in the first place.
The holiday season at Four Points Palawan is not just a vacation—it’s an entire experience. The festivities kicked off early with the Road to Give Run 2025 last November 22, a charity event held right in Puerto Princesa. Runners sprinted across beautiful landscapes while supporting Save the Children Philippines and the Marriott Philippines Associate Welfare and Recovery Fund. It was the perfect reminder that Christmas can be both joyful and meaningful.
Then came the resort’s second anniversary celebration last December 1. Picture this: a glowing Christmas tree lighting ceremony, followed by a Noche Buena buffet at Evolution, their in-house restaurant known for combining comfort and creativity. Ham leg, roasted prime ribeye, classic roasted turkey—everything tasted like a hug. They even hosted a parol-making activity with kids from Sabang Elementary School, and the lanterns were proudly displayed at the lobby. It gave the whole place that warm, Filipino holiday soul, even with the backdrop of Palawan’s crystal waters.
And if you’re the type who loves extending vacations, the New Year’s Eve Gala at Four Points Palawan is another event worth staying for. Think: live entertainment, good food, and a relaxed but festive atmosphere that welcomes the new year without the chaos of fireworks or crowded city scenes.
Of course, the best part about staying at Four Points Palawan is how easy it is to slow down. This 100% solar-powered resort features modern coastal rooms that make you want to stay in bed all day. But the outdoor adult pool, jacuzzi, and pool bar will eventually lure you out. And yes, there’s Best Brews—Four Points’ exclusive craft beer partnership with Palaweño Brewery. The flavors are tropical, fun, and local, with standouts like Pineapple by the Sea and Suman Pandan Pale Ale. They taste like island holidays in a glass.
If your idea of vacation is pure rest, the shoreline is perfect for long walks and quiet swims. The spa is another must-do, offering massages, body scrubs, wraps, and a steam room that melts away every last bit of stress. For families, the Kids’ Pool and Kids’ Club keep little ones happy and entertained.
But don’t mistake this place for a purely chill destination. The mountains wrapping the resort are open for guided hikes, and there are activities like kayaking, boating, and eco and farm tours. Its location also puts you close to Palawan’s major landmarks like the Underground River, Sabang Waterfalls, Sabang Hundred Caves, Ugong Rock Adventures, and Isla Rita.
By the time Christmas wrapped up, I realized why people keep returning to Four Points Palawan. It’s simple, beautiful, and grounded in nature. It feels like the kind of holiday escape that heals you without trying too hard. And with the Marriott Bonvoy service, everything is effortless—from check-in to your last breakfast by the sea.
If you’re dreaming of a Christmas filled with sunsets, swimming, and quiet moments that stay with you, book your stay at Four Points Palawan. Sometimes, the best gifts are the ones we give ourselves.
