Puerto Princesa is often the first stop for travelers exploring Palawan, serving as both a lively city hub and a gateway to some of the province’s most impressive natural attractions.
Known for the world-famous Underground River, clean coastal waters, firefly tours, and a relaxed urban atmosphere, Puerto Princesa blends accessibility with nature-driven experiences. While the city itself offers food culture, baywalk views, and heritage points, its surrounding landscapes extend into mangroves, limestone formations, caves, and coastlines. This guide explores Puerto Princesa in detail, giving travelers a thoughtful overview of its attractions, history, and practical travel insights.
Understanding Puerto Princesa
Puerto Princesa is Palawan’s capital and largest city, yet it maintains a calm rhythm compared to major urban centers in the Philippines. Its long and narrow geography stretches from coast to coast, with most attractions located in the central districts or along the northern route leading to Sabang. Because the area is expansive, organized tours are common and help travelers navigate efficiently.
The climate is tropical, with dry months generally offering the most predictable conditions for tours. The city is known for maintaining cleanliness, which is evident in its streets, waterfronts, and mangrove zones. Many travelers include Puerto Princesa at the beginning or end of Palawan itineraries, taking advantage of its airport, food scene, and coastal tours.
Puerto Princesa Underground River
The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of Nature. The river flows beneath a massive limestone mountain, forming caverns filled with stalactites, rock formations, and cathedral-like chambers. Visitors ride paddle boats into the cave while local guides explain its geological and ecological significance.
The approach to the Underground River begins with a short boat ride to Sabang Beach, followed by a boardwalk through lush forest. Wildlife such as macaques and monitor lizards appear along the path. Inside the cave, the quiet movement of the boat contrasts with the vastness of the chambers, creating an experience that feels both intimate and grand. Flashlights illuminate key formations while guides describe their shapes and history.
Sabang Beach
Sabang Beach stretches along the coast near the Underground River entrance and provides a serene environment for swimming and relaxing. The waves are gentle during calmer months, and the wide shore allows for long walks. Many tours include free time in Sabang after visiting the Underground River, giving travelers a chance to enjoy fresh air and coastal scenery. The surrounding mountains and forests enhance the feeling of being close to Palawan’s natural core.
Ugong Rock Adventures
Ugong Rock is a limestone formation where visitors can try caving, spelunking, and a zipline that crosses rice fields and greenery. The ascent involves navigating narrow passages and climbing through natural rock openings. At the summit, travelers enjoy a panoramic view of farmlands and hills, creating a satisfying reward after a short but adventurous climb. Ugong Rock adds a dynamic and active element to a Puerto Princesa itinerary.
Mangrove Paddle Boat Tour
The mangrove paddle boat tour in Sabang provides a quiet and educational experience that contrasts with the Underground River. Local guides paddle through narrow waterways lined with mangrove trees, explaining their ecological importance and the wildlife they support. The calm movement of the boat encourages travelers to observe birds, crabs, and fish that live among the roots. The tour emphasizes conservation and local community involvement, offering a thoughtful perspective on Palawan’s ecosystems.
Firefly Watching Tour
Firefly watching tours take place along the Iwahig River or in Nagsaguipi Bay, where visitors ride small boats at night to observe fireflies glowing among mangrove trees. The experience feels gentle and magical, with the dark river reflecting lights above and around the boat. Guides explain the unique conditions that support firefly populations and the importance of maintaining clean rivers and intact mangroves. The tour highlights the relationship between local communities and their natural environment.
Honda Bay Island Hopping
Honda Bay offers a series of islands with bright sands, clear water, and gentle waves. The proximity to Puerto Princesa makes Honda Bay an accessible and popular day trip.
Cowrie Island
Cowrie Island features calm water, shaded picnic areas, and food stalls. It is ideal for swimming, lounging, and casual water activities.
Starfish Island
Starfish Island is known for its shallow waters filled with starfish. Snorkelers enjoy gentle marine life and soft waves suitable for beginners.
Luli Island
Luli Island appears and disappears with the tide, creating a unique sandbar experience. Its simple layout makes it a pleasant stop for photos and swimming.
Honda Bay tours are beginner-friendly, making them suitable for families and travelers who prefer relaxed island hopping.
Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center
The Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center focuses on breeding and protecting crocodiles, as well as rehabilitating injured animals. Visitors observe both young and mature crocodiles in secured enclosures, learn about conservation programs, and explore small exhibits featuring other native wildlife. The center highlights the complexity of Palawan’s ecosystems and the importance of responsible wildlife management.
Puerto Princesa Baywalk
The Baywalk is one of Puerto Princesa’s most welcoming public spaces. The long promenade runs along the waterfront and offers restaurants, food stalls, and views of the bay. In the late afternoon, locals jog, stroll, or sit along the railings to enjoy the breeze. As evening sets in, lights reflect on the water and the atmosphere becomes leisurely and peaceful. Travelers often visit for casual dinners, seafood, and quiet conversations.
Immaculate Conception Cathedral
The Immaculate Conception Cathedral stands as one of Puerto Princesa’s landmark structures. Its blue-white façade and pointed spires create a graceful presence near the city center. The interior provides a quiet space for reflection, and the surrounding area includes a small plaza and historical markers that describe the cathedral’s past.
Plaza Cuartel
Plaza Cuartel sits across from the cathedral and serves as a memorial to American soldiers during World War II. The restored ruins of the old garrison provide a solemn reminder of history, with markers that describe significant wartime events. Travelers often visit the plaza after seeing the cathedral, appreciating the contrast between peaceful surroundings and historical depth.
Mitra’s Ranch
Mitra’s Ranch is located on a hill overlooking Puerto Princesa and provides wide open spaces, gentle breezes, and panoramic views. The ranch offers horseback riding, small picnic areas, and space for quiet walks. The elevation allows visitors to enjoy expansive landscapes and peaceful moments away from the city center.
Baker’s Hill
Baker’s Hill combines landscaped gardens, small attractions, and food stalls into a family-friendly stop. Travelers come to try baked goods such as hopia and pastries, stroll along decorated paths, and enjoy simple leisure areas. The gardens feature playful designs that appeal to children and offer relaxed photo spots.
Suggested Itinerary for Three to Five Days
Puerto Princesa’s attractions balance adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion across several days.
Day 1: City and Baywalk
Arrive in Puerto Princesa, explore the Baywalk, and visit the cathedral and Plaza Cuartel. Enjoy dinner along the waterfront.
Day 2: Underground River and Sabang
Travel to Sabang for the Underground River tour, with optional stops at Sabang Beach, the mangrove tour, or Ugong Rock.
Day 3: Honda Bay Island Hopping
Spend the day visiting Cowrie Island, Luli Island, and Starfish Island. Enjoy swimming and relaxed beach time.
Day 4: Nature and Wildlife
Visit the wildlife rescue center, Mitra’s Ranch, and Baker’s Hill. Explore small cafés and restaurants afterward.
Day 5: Firefly Tour
Enjoy a slow morning in town, visit local markets, and join a firefly watching tour in the evening.
Where to Stay in Puerto Princesa
Accommodations in Puerto Princesa range from simple inns to comfortable hotels with pools and gardens. Travelers choose areas based on convenience and preferred pace.
City Center
Staying in the city center offers access to shops, restaurants, and tricycles. This location suits travelers who want a base close to amenities.
Coastal Resorts
Resorts along the coast provide quiet surroundings and scenic views. These stays offer pools, open spaces, and a more relaxed atmosphere ideal for unwinding after tours.
Mid-Range Hotels
Mid-range hotels scattered around the city combine accessibility with comfort, often offering shuttle services and spacious rooms suited to families and groups.
Transportation Tips
Puerto Princesa is easy to navigate due to its organized tour system and accessible transport options.
Vans
Vans transport visitors to Sabang for Underground River tours and to other attractions outside the city.
Tricycles
Tricycles operate widely in the city center and provide short, convenient rides to restaurants, shops, and landmarks.
Boats
Boats facilitate Honda Bay tours and mangrove experiences, with guides handling equipment and safety procedures.
Motorbikes
Motorbike rentals allow independent exploration of coastal roads and city outskirts, though caution is needed on longer routes.
Practical Travel Tips
Simple preparations help visitors enjoy Puerto Princesa comfortably.
Weather
Sunscreen, hats, and breathable clothing are essential for outdoor tours. Light rain gear helps during unexpected showers.
Safety
Puerto Princesa is safe and welcoming. Following tour instructions and keeping valuables secure ensures worry-free travel.
Money
Cash is useful for food stalls, markets, transport, and small establishments. ATMs are available but may be limited in Sabang.
Final Thoughts
Puerto Princesa offers a diverse mix of natural wonders, cultural sites, and calm urban spaces. From the Underground River’s quiet chambers and Sabang’s wide coastline to Honda Bay’s islands and evening firefly tours, the city reveals its character through landscapes shaped by water, forest, and limestone.
Travelers find experiences that balance adventure and reflection, making Puerto Princesa a meaningful gateway to Palawan’s beauty and history.
