Flower Island in Shark Fin Bay, Taytay: a one-of-a-kind escape

Looking for something truly different in Palawan? Fly by seaplane to Flower Island, a small island resort in Shark Fin Bay off Taytay, in the quiet north of Palawan.

Beyond the white sand and clear water, this corner of Palawan holds a remarkable story: it is home to some of the world's finest pearls. Here is how they are grown, and why the waters around Taytay are so special.

The world of pearl farming

Pearl farming is patient, demanding work. It depends on clean water, a healthy marine ecosystem and years of careful attention. The people behind it combine deep knowledge of the sea with a passion for creating pearls of exceptional quality.

Seeing a finished pearl is breathtaking. Knowing the years of care behind it makes it even more so.

How a pearl is grown

It begins with choosing healthy oysters. They are raised and cared for over several years, protected from predators, disease and changes in the water.

When an oyster is mature, a skilled technician places a small bead or piece of tissue inside it. The oyster responds by coating it with layer upon layer of nacre, the shimmering material that gives a pearl its lustre. Over time those layers build up into a pearl, each one unique in size, shape and colour.

Jewelmer: four decades of golden South Sea pearls

Jewelmer has been growing pearls in Palawan for more than four decades. Founded in 1979 by Jacques Branellec and Manuel Cojuangco, it became one of the pioneers of the golden South Sea pearl, one of the rarest pearls in the world.

Jewelmer's pearls are known for their lustre, colour and quality, and are sought after by collectors and jewellers around the world.

Pearls and a healthy sea

Pearl oysters only thrive in clean, healthy water, so pearl farming and conservation go hand in hand. Jewelmer works with local communities to protect the marine environment and promote sustainable fishing, and supports education, health and community programmes in the region, including through the Save the Palawan Seas Foundation.

Today Jewelmer is regarded as one of the world's leading producers of golden South Sea pearls, and an example of how a business can thrive while caring for the sea it depends on.

Fly to Flower Island by seaplane

Discover the islands and waters where golden pearls are born. Fly from Puerto Princesa to Flower Island in about an hour, with views of Palawan's coast, islands and reefs all the way, and land close to the resort instead of spending half a day on the road.