Puerto Princesa City, the capital of Palawan Island in the Philippines, is a tropical paradise known for its breathtaking natural wonders, diverse wildlife, and relaxed island vibe. From cruising through mangrove forests and exploring expansive caves to swimming at white-sand beaches, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Puerto Princesa City for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Puerto Princesa City is most famous for the Palawan Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Its stunning limestone cave system is a must-see. You can also join tours in Puerto Princesa City that take you island-hopping in Honda Bay, cruising the Iwahig River for firefly-watching, or paddling through peaceful mangrove forests.
If you're wondering what to do in Puerto Princesa City or need help planning your Palawan Island itinerary, this guide is for you. Read on to discover the top tourist spots in Puerto Princesa City and find out which activities and tours are worth adding to your trip!
Key Takeaways
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Puerto Princesa City is best known for the world-renowned Palawan Underground River—one of the longest underground rivers in the world that’s accessible by boat, winding through dramatic limestone caves surrounded by lush rainforest.
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Top Nature Destination: Puerto Princesa City is perfect for nature lovers, with activities like firefly watching along the Iwahig River, paddling through mangrove forests, and joining Palawan Underground River tours to explore its stunning cave system.
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Island-Hopping Paradise: Enjoy scenic tours in Honda Bay, where you can visit beautiful islands, snorkel over vibrant coral reefs, and unwind on white-sand beaches surrounded by clear blue waters.
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Thrilling Adventures: For adrenaline seekers, the city offers exciting experiences like the Sabang Zipline, with ocean views from above, and Ugong Rock Adventures, where you can climb through a limestone formation and zipline down afterward.
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Cultural Spots and Local Finds: Discover charming places like Baker’s Hill, a whimsical park and bakery with panoramic views; Plaza Cuartel, a historical WWII site; and Palaweño Brewery, Palawan’s first craft beer stop, perfect for a relaxed tasting session.
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Family-Friendly Nature Parks: Spend a laid-back day at Mitra’s Ranch for scenic views, meet wildlife at the Crocodile Farm, and enjoy interactive experiences at the Butterfly Garden and Tribal Village where culture and nature come together.
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Gateway to Palawan Island: Puerto Princesa City is a great starting point for exploring the towns of El Nido, Coron, and San Vicente. While El Nido and Coron are famous for their limestone cliffs and lagoons, San Vicente offers a more laid-back vibe and is home to Long Beach—the longest white-sand beach in the Philippines.
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Hassle-Free Travel: For a smooth and stress-free trip, consider booking vacation packages in Puerto Princesa City that include transportation, accommodations, and activities—everything’s arranged so you can just relax and enjoy.
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Convenient Access to Attractions: Most tourist spots in Puerto Princesa City are easily accessible from the airport and city center. Aside from booking tours, you can also opt for airport transfers or a private van rental with a driver in Puerto Princesa City—a flexible and hassle-free way to explore top attractions at your own pace.
1. Explore the Famous Palawan Underground River
A trip to Puerto Princesa City wouldn’t be complete without seeing the world-famous Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park in Sabang. This UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature is the top tourist spot in Puerto Princesa City—and for good reason.
The cave system winds through 8.2 kilometers of jaw-dropping natural beauty, surrounded by dramatic limestone karsts, dense rainforest, and untouched wildlife. Inside, you’ll cruise past towering stalactites, glittering stalagmites, and vast cathedral-like chambers that feel like stepping into another world.
The best way to explore this natural wonder is by booking a Puerto Princesa Underground River tour. You’ll ride a motorized paddle boat through the river’s dark but enchanting passages, with a headset guide narrating fascinating facts as you go. Keep an eye out for bats, birds, and other creatures inside this magical cave.
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2. Go On an Island-Hopping Adventure in Honda Bay
While many beach lovers head straight to the towns of El Nido or Coron, Puerto Princesa City on Palawan Island has its own island-hopping gem—Honda Bay. Just a short drive and boat ride from the city, this scenic bay is home to powdery white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.
You’ll visit top spots like Cowrie Island, Luli Island, and Starfish Island—all perfect for a relaxing and fun beach escape just minutes from Puerto Princesa City on Palawan Island.
Cowrie Island
Cowrie Island is the largest and most developed of the three, known for its calm waters, spacious beachfront, and soft white sand—perfect for sunbathing and swimming. You can enjoy a buffet lunch here, book a massage in a cabana, or sip cocktails at the bar while soaking up the sun.
Luli Island
Luli Island—short for “Lulubog, Lilitaw” (sink and rise)—is a sandbar that appears only during low tide. It’s a fun stop for swimming, kayaking in the surrounding lagoon, or jumping off a wooden diving board into clear, turquoise waters. You can also relax in open huts while enjoying the laid-back island vibe.
Starfish Island
Starfish Island is a snorkeler’s paradise, named after the variety of starfish scattered along its shallow seabed. The island’s gentle waves, seagrass patches, and sandy floor also make it ideal for beginner swimmers and underwater photo ops.
The best way to explore these tropical spots is by booking a Puerto Princesa island hopping tour in Honda Bay. This guided tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a delicious beach picnic, and the expertise of a friendly local guide. For a more exclusive experience, you can also upgrade to a private tour and enjoy the islands at your own pace.
3. Visit Baker’s Hill for Tasty Pastries and City Views
Baker’s Hill is a must-visit stop in Puerto Princesa City, especially for foodies and those looking for tasty local treats. Sitting atop a scenic hill, this charming spot is most famous for its hopia—a mooncake-like pastry—with ube as the top favorite.
You can enjoy freshly baked hopia during your visit or grab a few boxes to take home. Other treats include soft, chewy cookies and classic pastries that are great for sharing or gifting. If you're craving more, check out their pizza kitchen and restaurant. They serve hearty meals like pasta, burgers, sandwiches, and refreshing shakes.
Beyond the food, you’ll find whimsical gardens, quirky statues, and even peacocks roaming the grounds. Head to the view deck for a sweeping look at Puerto Princesa—perfect for photos and sunset strolls. It’s a highlight of any Puerto Princesa City tour.
4. Relax on the Best Beaches in Puerto Princesa City
You don’t need to join an island-hopping tour to enjoy a beach day in Puerto Princesa City. Several scenic beaches are just a short drive from the city center, offering soft sand, swaying palms, and peaceful shores—perfect for a relaxing escape.
Sabang Beach
Located near the jump-off port for Palawan Underground River tours, Sabang Beach is often overlooked but worth a visit. It features powdery beige sand and calm waves, perfect for sunbathing, shoreline picnics, or peaceful morning walks.
Nagtabon Beach
Nagtabon Beach is a quiet favorite among locals and travelers alike. Its wide stretch of soft white sand, clear waters, and palm-fringed shoreline create a laid-back setting. You might even spot local fishermen bringing in their daily catch.
Talaudyong Beach
Talaudyong Beach is a hidden tropical gem with gentle waves and shady coconut trees. It’s perfect for swimming, building sandcastles, or taking a nap in a hammock while listening to the sound of the waves.
Whether you're up for a quiet escape or just want to soak up the sun, these beaches in Puerto Princesa City offer the perfect setting. Pack your snacks, bring a beach mat, and enjoy the laid-back tropical vibe—no boat ride needed!
5. Experience the Magic of Firefly Watching in Iwahig River
Puerto Princesa City turns magical after sunset with one of its most enchanting activities—firefly watching along Iwahig River or Irawan River. Picture yourself cruising on a paddle boat, gliding silently through mangrove tunnels as thousands of fireflies light up the trees like twinkling stars.
The calm waters reflect the glow of the fireflies, and on clear nights, you might even see glowing plankton and constellations overhead. Flash photography is not allowed during the tour, ensuring you enjoy this peaceful spectacle without disturbing the natural habitat.
The stillness, the shimmer, and the gentle paddling create a calming atmosphere—perfect for couples, families, or anyone craving a quiet escape into nature. A firefly watching tour in Puerto Princesa City is not just relaxing—it’s a one-of-a-kind experience. Watching trees glow like lanterns under the night sky makes for a truly magical and unforgettable end to your day.
6. Sip Local Beer at Palaweño Brewery
Photo from Palaweño Brewery
When it comes to Puerto Princesa City nightlife, don’t miss out on Palaweño Brewery—the first female-owned craft brewery in the Philippines. This cozy spot is known for its small-batch brews made with fresh local ingredients like coconuts, mangoes, honey, and native spices.
Some of their best-loved year-round beers include Ambog Ale (an American Amber Ale), Palawan Wit (a Belgian Wheat Beer), Ayahay IPA, and the sweet and smooth Palaw’An Honey Kolsch. If you’re lucky, you might also catch their seasonal releases like Buko Loco and Mango de Palawan.
You can enjoy these drinks at their laid-back taproom or join a microbrewery experience to learn about their brewing process and story. Whether you're a craft beer fan or just looking for a chill night out, this is a must-visit spot in Puerto Princesa City.
7. Go Spelunking or Ride a Zipline in Ugong Rock Adventures
Located near the Puerto Princesa Underground River, Ugong Rock is a striking 75-foot-high moss-covered limestone formation named after the unique gong-like sound it makes when tapped—"ugong" means echo or hum in the local dialect.
Ugong Rock Adventures is a community-based tourism project that supports ethical travel while letting you enjoy thrilling activities like spelunking, rock climbing, ziplining, zip biking, and even base jumping. It’s a fun way to support locals while soaking up nature.
Spelunking here takes you through tight rock crevices, ladders, and chambers for a close-up look at the limestone's unique textures and formations. For adrenaline-seekers, the 71-meter drop on the zip line gives you panoramic views of the karst landscape—a must-try!
8. Get Up Close with Crocodiles at the Wildlife Rescue Center
Get up close with some of Palawan Island’s most fascinating wildlife at the Palawan Rescue and Wildlife Conservation Centre, more popularly known as the Crocodile Farm. This eight-acre facility is both a research center and sanctuary for crocodiles and other endangered species.
Here, you’ll find hundreds of crocodiles—including the rare freshwater and saltwater types that the center helps protect. Guided visits take you through areas where you can safely view these creatures at every stage of life, from baby crocs to full-grown giants.
Don’t miss the crocodile skeleton exhibit and the hatchling house, where you can even hold a baby crocodile under supervision! For a real thrill, walk across the bridge at the swamp enclosure to spot adult crocodiles lounging or feeding below. Aside from crocodiles, the farm has a mini zoo and wildlife park home to birds, reptiles, and mammals found across Palawan Island.
9. Enjoy Scenic Views and Fresh Air at Mitra’s Ranch
Perched on a hilltop in Puerto Princesa City, Mitra’s Ranch—also known as Rancho Sta. Monica—treats you to panoramic views of Honda Bay and the city below. Once a private property owned by statesman Ramon Mitra Jr., it’s now a peaceful escape that’s open to visitors.
This wide, grassy ranch is perfect for families or anyone looking for open space and cool air. You can go horseback riding, walk across a hanging bridge, or zip through the air on their 4-station zipline for a quick thrill.
If you’d rather slow down, head to the view deck and take in the stunning sights. It’s the perfect spot for photos, especially during sunset when the golden light hits the bay.
Mitra’s Ranch is just a short ride from Baker’s Hill and the Crocodile Farm, making it an easy and scenic stop to include in your Puerto Princesa itinerary.
10. Honor History at Plaza Cuartel War Memorial
Plaza Cuartel in Puerto Princesa City is a peaceful garden with a powerful past. This open-air park holds deep historical weight as the site of the tragic Palawan Massacre during World War II.
On December 14, 1944, 150 American prisoners of war were held here by Japanese forces. In a horrific act, the soldiers set fire to the trenches where the prisoners were confined. Only 11 managed to escape and share the story.
Today, Plaza Cuartel serves as a war memorial honoring those who perished. At its center stands a marker listing the names of the fallen—a poignant reminder of the human cost of conflict.
Overlooking the sea, the park offers a quiet space for reflection. Stroll through its shaded paths, explore the gardens, and learn more through informative signs scattered across the site. It’s a moving stop that invites you to connect with Palawan Island’s wartime past.
11. Stroll Along Puerto Princesa City Baywalk Park
If you’re looking for a relaxing spot to unwind, head to Puerto Princesa City Baywalk Park—a breezy seaside promenade loved by both locals and travelers. It’s a great place to walk, bike, and catch a colorful sunset by the sea.
Early mornings bring joggers and cyclists, while evenings fill the park with families and friends enjoying the view or grabbing street food. You'll find stalls offering snacks and drinks, plus nearby seafood restaurants perfect for dinner.
There’s a bike rental station at one end of the park, so you can rent bicycles for both kids and adults. Whether you're pedaling around or lounging on a bench, it’s a fun, easy way to enjoy the local vibe. Before you leave, snap a photo at the Puerto Princesa signage—a favorite spot for souvenirs and selfies!
12. Discover the History and Culture of the Island at Palawan Museum
Palawan Island isn’t just about natural beauty—it also holds a deep historical and cultural significance. One of its most important archaeological sites is the Tabon Caves, where the Tabon Man, the oldest human remains found in the Philippines, was unearthed.
You can view relics and artifacts from this discovery at the Palawan Museum in Puerto Princesa City. The museum gives you a fascinating glimpse into the early human history of the Philippines, along with other archaeological finds.
The museum also highlights the rich heritage of Palawan’s indigenous tribes, including the Tagbanuas, Pala’wans, and Cuyunons. You’ll see examples of their tools, traditional clothing, and even ancient syllabic scripts used before colonization.
Drop by the Palawan Museum during your tour of Puerto Princesa City to explore its unique collection of historical, cultural, and natural exhibits. It’s a great way to deepen your appreciation for the province—beyond its beaches and limestone cliffs.
13. Immerse Yourself in Nature at the Butterfly Garden and Tribal Village
If you love butterflies, beautiful gardens, and unique cultural experiences, don’t miss the Palawan Butterfly Ecological Garden and Tribal Village during your Puerto Princesa City adventure.
Wander through the butterfly garden and admire the colorful butterflies fluttering around you. You’ll also encounter rare insects and endemic wildlife from Palawan, like the Palawan bearcat and the Palawan peacock-pheasant—a treat for animal lovers.
Beyond the garden, step into a recreated Tribal Village where you’ll meet members of one of Palawan Island’s oldest indigenous groups. They’ll share stories about their way of life, demonstrate traditional hunting tools, and even play their native instruments.
You can also browse and purchase handwoven crafts like baskets and mats—perfect souvenirs that support their community. It’s a meaningful stop where you’ll learn about Palawan’s rich biodiversity and indigenous heritage in one visit.
14. Dive Into Culture at the Palawan Heritage Center
The Palawan Heritage Center is not your typical museum. This interactive hub in Puerto Princesa City brings Palawan Island’s rich history and culture to life through touch-screen displays, holograms, and guided exhibits.
Spanning 480 square meters, the center highlights Palawan’s biodiversity, economic growth, environmental conservation efforts, and vibrant local artistry. It’s a fun and educational stop that’s perfect for families and curious travelers.
You’ll also learn about the indigenous groups of Palawan Island, including the Tagbanua, Palaw’an, and Batak, who continue to preserve their cultural traditions across the island.
Some of the must-see features here include displays on the Tabon Man, the Manunggul Jar, and the South Sea Pearl. With its tech-savvy setup, the center makes history fun and immersive for both kids and adults.
15. Soar Above the Sea on the Sabang X Zipline
Get your adrenaline pumping with a ride on the Sabang X Zipline, the longest water-crossing zipline in the Philippines. Stretching 800 meters and hanging 150 feet high, this thrilling ride offers incredible coastal views.
Before the launch, you’ll take a short trek through the forest to reach the platform—about 10 minutes depending on your pace. The walk alone gives you a scenic preview of what’s to come.
As you zip across the sparkling blue waters, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking panorama of Puerto Princesa’s lush mountains and the sea. It’s only a few minutes long, but the thrill and views are unforgettable.
This activity is often done right after the Underground River Tour, making it the perfect way to cap off your adventure. It’s a quick, exhilarating ride that leaves a lasting impression.
16. Go on a Mangrove Paddle Boat Tour
Beyond the world-famous Underground River, Puerto Princesa is home to stunning mangrove forests that you can explore through a peaceful paddle boat tour in Sabang village. It’s the perfect nature experience for those craving serenity and meaningful travel.
As you gently glide along calm waters, local guides will share fascinating insights about the century-old mangroves and their crucial role in the ecosystem. These trees protect the shoreline, prevent erosion, and help maintain clean, clear water.
Keep an eye out—you might spot snakes coiled in branches, monkeys swinging through the trees, and lizards sunbathing along the banks. The rich biodiversity makes this hour-long ride both calming and educational.
To make the experience even more fulfilling, you can join a tree-planting activity after the tour. It’s a great way to give back to nature and be part of the continued conservation of these vital coastal ecosystems.
Plan Your Island Getaway to Puerto Princesa City Now!
Puerto Princesa City serves as a convenient gateway to Palawan Island, connecting you to some of the Philippines’ top destinations. From here, you can venture to El Nido town and Coron town to see towering limestone cliffs and pristine lagoons, or head to San Vicente town, home to the 14-kilometer Long Beach and the laid-back coastal village of Port Barton with its peaceful, untouched shores.
But don’t just pass through—Puerto Princesa City is a destination in itself. With its mix of city comforts and small-town charm, this nature-filled city offers a relaxing escape packed with unforgettable experiences. Explore its world-famous underground river, bask on white sand beaches, encounter rich wildlife, and immerse yourself in its vibrant local culture.
To make your trip seamless and worry-free, book a 4-day Puerto Princesa City tour package with airfare to Palawan Island. This convenient package include hotel stays, roundtrip flights, and guided tours to top spots like the Underground River and Honda Bay. With everything arranged, you can simply relax and enjoy.
You can also book a 5-day Puerto Princesa City to El Nido town tour package on Palawan Island, which takes you from Manila City to two of the island’s top destinations. It’s the perfect way to experience the best of Palawan Island in one hassle-free trip, with all travel arrangements conveniently handled for you.
Use this guide to start planning your perfect getaway and discover all the unforgettable experiences waiting for you in Puerto Princesa City.
Frequently Asked Questions About Puerto Princesa City Tourist Spots
Puerto Princesa City offers the perfect blend of nature, adventure, and culture, making it an ideal starting point for your getaway in the Philippines. To help you make the most of your visit, here are some frequently asked questions about the city's top attractions, must-try tours, and travel tips.
What is Puerto Princesa City known for?
Puerto Princesa City is best known for its natural wonders, especially the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. It is the longest underground river in the world that can be explored by paddle boat.
Puerto Princesa City is also celebrated for its eco-friendly initiatives and has been recognized multiple times as one of the cleanest and greenest cities in the Philippines.
What are the must-visit tourist spots and activities in Puerto Princesa City?
Puerto Princesa City offers a mix of natural wonders, thrilling adventures, and relaxing activities. Top attractions include the world-famous Puerto Princesa Underground River, as well as the stunning Cowrie Island, Luli Island, and Starfish Island in Honda Bay. Within the city, popular spots like the Crocodile Farm and Baker’s Hill are also worth a visit.
For eco-adventures, try a peaceful mangrove paddleboat tour or ride the exciting Sabang X Zipline—the longest water-crossing zipline in the Philippines. Adventurous travelers can also explore Ugong Rock through spelunking and ziplining. For a more serene experience, you can join firefly watching tours along Iwahig River and witness thousands of fireflies light up the mangrove forest.
Can I visit the Puerto Princesa Underground River without a tour?
You need a permit and advance reservation to visit the Underground River, and it's typically arranged by tour operators. Booking a guided Puerto Princesa Underground River tour is the easiest way to ensure transportation, permits, and a guide are all taken care of.
How far is the Puerto Princesa Underground River from the city center?
The Puerto Princesa Underground River is located in the coastal village of Sabang, about 75 to 80 kilometers from the city center. Travel time takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by van or private vehicle, depending on road conditions. Most visitors join guided Underground River tours that include hotel pickup, van transfers, boat rides, and entry permits for a hassle-free experience.
Can I visit nearby destinations from Puerto Princesa City?
Yes! Puerto Princesa City is a convenient gateway to the top destinations on Palawan Island. From here, you can easily travel to El Nido town and Coron town to experience breathtaking lagoons, towering limestone cliffs, and pristine white sand beaches. You can also head to San Vicente town, home to the stunning 14-kilometer Long Beach and the peaceful coastal charm of Port Barton.
For a smoother and more enjoyable trip, consider booking one of the many convenient and best-value Palawan Island vacation packages. These hassle-free options let you explore Puerto Princesa City, El Nido town, and Coron town in one well-planned journey. With tours, accommodations, flights, and transportation all taken care of, you can simply relax and focus on making unforgettable memories.
When is the best time to visit Puerto Princesa City?
The best time to visit Puerto Princesa City is during the dry season from November to May, when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. Expect sunny days, calm seas, and clear skies—ideal conditions for beach trips, island hopping, and sightseeing tours like the Underground River and Honda Bay.
Can I explore Puerto Princesa on my own or should I join a tour?
You can do both. Independent travelers can explore beaches and city attractions at their own pace. However, booking tours on Palawan Island is often the more convenient option—especially since many tourist spots are far apart.
Guided tours remove the hassle of arranging transportation and navigating directions, and they typically include hotel pick-ups, transfers, and insights from a local expert to help you make the most of your trip.
Is Puerto Princesa good for family trips and child-friendly?
Yes! Puerto Princesa City is an excellent destination for family trips, with plenty of child-friendly attractions and activities. Kids will enjoy wildlife encounters at the Crocodile Farm, nature walks and playgrounds at Baker’s Hill, and educational stops like the Palawan Museum.
Families can also take a guided Underground River tour, which includes a relaxing boat ride through one of the world’s most stunning cave systems—safe and exciting for kids and adults alike. For beach fun, Honda Bay island-hopping tours offer calm, shallow waters and family-friendly snorkeling spots. Many tours are designed with families in mind, making your trip smooth and enjoyable for all ages.
Is Puerto Princesa senior-friendly and accessible for PWD travelers?
Yes, Puerto Princesa City is a great destination for seniors and travelers with limited mobility. Many of its attractions don’t require heavy physical exertion. For instance, the Underground River tour and firefly watching tours involve boat rides where the guide paddles for you, allowing you to simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
Tourist spots like Baker’s Hill and the Crocodile Farm feature wheelchair-accessible entrances and designated parking areas. For a more comfortable experience, you can book guided tours with private transfers, allowing you to explore Puerto Princesa City at a relaxed pace with ease and peace of mind.
Is Puerto Princesa City safe for tourists?
Puerto Princesa City is considered one of the safest cities in the Philippines. Visitors often commend the locals’ hospitality and the city’s cleanliness. As always, exercise general travel precautions like securing your belongings and being mindful of your surroundings.
What should I pack for a trip to Puerto Princesa City?
Pack light, breathable clothing, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), insect repellent, swimwear, and comfortable walking shoes. A waterproof dry bag is also handy for island-hopping and boat tours.
Should I bring cash or are there ATMs in Puerto Princesa City?
It’s best to bring cash, especially in smaller bills, as some island tours, local markets, and small eateries may not accept cards. ATMs are available in the city center and near major banks, but they can occasionally run out of cash during busy travel seasons.
To avoid any hassle, withdraw in advance and bring enough Philippine Peso (PHP) for your daily needs. You’ll also find money changers in the city if you need to exchange foreign currency.
