PUERTO PRINCESA
Puerto Princesa is the Eco-Tourism Capital of the Philippines, anchored by the legendary Underground River. It’s a gateway to Palawan’s raw, stunning beauty, offering a perfect blend of natural wonders, island adventures, and city charm.
This region presents a complete “mountain-to-sea” ecosystem, from spectacular limestone karst mountains and old-growth forests to pristine white-sand beaches and diverse marine sanctuaries, earning its title as one of the world’s most beautiful islands.
Most Popular Attractions
Natural & UNESCO Wonders (Underground River Area)
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Features an incredible limestone karst landscape and one of the world’s longest navigable underground rivers.
Underground River Boat Tour: The main attraction, an awe-inspiring paddleboat journey through the cave, marveling at unique rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites.
Sabang Beach: The jump-off point for the Underground River tour, a beautiful beach with mountain backdrops and a relaxed, natural atmosphere.
Sabang Mangrove Forest: A dense, diverse mangrove ecosystem offering a peaceful paddleboat tour to observe local flora and fauna.
Ugong Rock Adventures: A towering limestone formation near the Underground River where visitors can climb, spelunk, and ride a zipline down.
Sabang X-Zipline: A thrilling zipline ride over the water and lush forests near Sabang Beach.
Coastal & Island Adventures (Honda Bay Area)
Honda Bay Island Hopping: A popular tour visiting several picturesque islands and snorkeling spots just off the city’s coast.
Starfish Island: Famous for its clear, shallow waters teeming with various species of starfish.
Cowrie Island: A developed island perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a traditional Palawan beach lunch.
Luli Island: Short for “Lulubog, Lilitaw” (Sink and Rise), a sandbar that disappears almost entirely during high tide.
Pambato Reef: A popular, protected snorkeling area known for its vibrant coral gardens and marine biodiversity.
Nagtabon Beach: A more secluded beach outside the city center, known for its long, white-sand shore and excellent surfing conditions.
Talaudyong Beach: A picturesque and less crowded beach, offering a more serene coastal experience.
City Core & Historical Sites
Immaculate Conception Cathedral: A prominent historical church in the city center with a unique angular structure.
Plaza Cuartel (Pronunciation: Kwar-TEL): A historical park and restored ruins of an old World War II garrison, serving as a grim but important memorial site.
Puerto Princesa City Baywalk: A scenic seaside promenade perfect for strolling, jogging, and enjoying the sunset, especially lively at night.
Palawan National Museum: Features important ethnological artifacts, notably from the Tabon Cave complex.
Palawan Heritage Center: A modern museum providing comprehensive insight into the history, culture, and art of Palawan.
Wildlife & Cultural Attractions
Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (Crocodile Farm): A government facility that houses and protects various endemic and endangered Palawan wildlife, including crocodiles.
Baker’s Hill: A scenic, landscaped park and bakery offering stunning views, a playground, and delicious local pastries.
Mitra’s Ranch (Rancho Mitra): Located near Baker’s Hill, a ranch offering panoramic views of Honda Bay and activities like horseback riding.
Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm: A unique, historic penal colony where inmates are allowed to live and work freely, operating largely without armed guards or high walls.
Iwahig River Firefly Watching: A magical night-time boat tour along the river to see mangrove trees illuminated by thousands of synchronous fireflies.
Palawan Butterfly Garden and Tribal Village: Showcases a wide variety of colorful butterflies in a lush setting, alongside a cultural exhibit of the indigenous Palaw’an tribe.
Activities & Experiences
Discover the Puerto Princesa Underground River: Take a paddle boat through the 8.2 km (5 miles) long navigable underground river system, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.
Go Island Hopping in Honda Bay: Spend a full day exploring the clear waters and white-sand beaches of the bay. Popular stops include Starfish Island, Luli Island, and Cowrie Island.
Explore the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (Crocodile Farm): Visit this center to see local wildlife, including saltwater crocodiles, endemic birds, and the Palawan bearcat (Binturong).
Hike to and Swim in the Nagtabon Beach: Escape the city crowds by heading north to this long, sweeping beach known for its excellent surf waves and laid-back vibe.
Take a Firefly Watching Tour on the Iwahig River: Experience a magical night cruise where thousands of fireflies light up the mangrove trees along the riverbanks.
Go on a City Tour of Puerto Princesa: Visit key landmarks like the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, the historic Plaza Cuartel, and the local public market for a taste of local life.
Witness the Sunset at Puerto Princesa Baywalk: Join locals in the early evening for a leisurely walk, street food, and a view of the sunset over the bay.
Go Deep-Sea Scuba Diving or Snorkeling: Explore the coral reefs and diverse marine life around the islands of Honda Bay or venture further out to more remote dive sites.
Shop for Local Souvenirs and Cashews: Visit shops in the city for the region’s famous cashew nuts (many varieties available) and handcrafted Palawan pearl jewelry and wood carvings.
Venture to Cowrie Island for Water Sports: Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling in the shallow, protected waters off the beautiful Cowrie Island.
Experience the Ugong Rock Adventures: Climb this unique limestone karst formation and then descend via a thrilling zip line, offering a mix of caving and adventure sports.
Local Tips & Transport
Tricycles are King: The primary mode of transport within the city proper of Puerto Princesa is the tricycle (a motorcycle with a sidecar). Always agree on the fare with the driver before getting in, as they do not use meters.
Vans and Jeepneys for Inter-Town Travel: For trips to further destinations like the Underground River (Sabang) or El Nido, you will use air-conditioned shared vans or local jeepneys. Vans are faster and more direct. Bookings can be made through your hotel or local tour operators.
Boats for Island Hopping: Trips to Honda Bay or the Underground River involve motorized outrigger boats, locally known as bankas. Life vests are mandatory, and it is advisable to book through accredited tour operators.
From the Airport: The Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) is very close to the city center. You can take a tricycle or a pre-arranged van transfer to your accommodation. The trip is usually less than 30 minutes.
The Underground River Permit: You must secure an entry permit (or have your tour operator secure it for you) for the Subterranean River well in advance. Same-day permits are virtually impossible to get due to strict visitor limits. This is mandatory for entry.
Palawan is a “Cultural Melting Pot”: Palawan has 7 major indigenous groups, but due to migration, you will hear a mix of Tagalog, Cebuano, and Ilonggo languages. English is widely spoken in the tourism industry, but a few local phrases like Salamat (thank you) and Maganda (beautiful) are appreciated.
Eco-Consciousness: Palawan is a protected ecological region. Respect environmental regulations: do not litter, avoid touching corals or marine life while snorkeling/diving, and be mindful of your water usage. Reef-safe sunscreen is highly recommended.
Dining Times and Filipino Food: Filipinos typically eat three meals a day, with lunch often being the heaviest. Dinner is usually around 7 PM to 9 PM. Don’t miss local specialties like fresh seafood, Kinilaw (Filipino-style ceviche), and Adobo.
Hidden Gems:
- Baker’s Hill: Located just outside the city, this spot is a theme park and bakery known for its fresh-baked goods and a great view—a perfect stop for snacks and pasalubong (take-home gifts).
- Tribu Kamaanan: A cultural village where you can learn about the traditional customs and way of life of Palawan’s indigenous tribes, such as the Pala’wan and Tagbanua.
- Badjao Seafood Restaurant: This restaurant is built on stilts over the water in a mangrove area. It offers fresh seafood with a stunning, unique ambiance.
- Mitra’s Ranch: A ranch offering great panoramic views of Honda Bay and the surrounding mountains, often included in city tours.
Top Restaurants
KaLui Restaurant [$25-$45] – Known for its fresh seafood and vegetable dishes in a stunning, art-filled native ambiance where you must remove your shoes before entering. Reservations are highly recommended.
Kinabuchs Grill and Bar [$20-$40] – A popular, lively spot known for its extensive menu of Filipino classics, grilled items, and local specialties like Crocodile Sisig and Tamilok (woodworm, a local delicacy).
Badjao Seafront Restaurant [$25-$45] – Perched on stilts above the water in a mangrove forest, this restaurant offers spectacular sea views and specializes in fresh seafood and traditional Filipino cuisine. It’s best visited before sunset.
Ka Inato [$15-$25] – A native-style restaurant famous for its Chicken Inato (marinated and grilled chicken leg) served with rice, offering authentic Filipino meals in a warm, homey setting.
Tiya Ising’s Filipino Restaurant [$15-$25] – A cozy restaurant offering traditional Filipino comfort food, known for its antique decor, old photographs of Palawan, and charming, non-touristy atmosphere.
Haim Chicken Inato Restaurant [$15-$25] – A local go-to spot for deliciously grilled Chicken Inato, with a comprehensive menu featuring various other Filipino dishes.
Balinsasayaw Seaside Restaurant [$20-$35] – Offers traditional Filipino cuisine with a great seaside ambiance, especially popular for its grilled seafood and Crispy Pata (deep-fried pork leg).
Nokinocs Savory House [$10-$20] – Hugely popular with locals, particularly for its legendary, creamy, and milky Halo-Halo (shaved ice dessert) and satisfying Filipino savory dishes.
Cacaoyan Restaurant (Sabang) [$15-$30] – Located near the Underground River jump-off point in Sabang, this is a popular stop for large tour groups, often serving a Filipino buffet lunch with local staples. Can be touristy but a good post-tour option.
Ka Joel’s [$15-$30] – Praised for its great food and unique, quirky restroom decor (check it out!), this spot is a favorite for hearty Filipino meals and a fun atmosphere.
McCoy’s Pizza House and Restaurant [$15-$25] – While it serves pizza, it’s a long-standing local favorite known for its Filipino dishes, casual vibe, and good value.
Balay Bukid [$15-$30] – A hidden gem offering traditional Filipino dishes in a simple, countryside-style setting, focusing on fresh ingredients and authentic flavors.
Kinabuch’s Balay Kalaw [$20-$35] – An extension or spin-off of the main Kinabuch’s, offering a similar menu with a focus on local and traditional Filipino grilled items.
Feisty Chef [$20-$35] – A casual restaurant that offers big servings of simple, savory Filipino comfort food and dishes inspired by global flavors, often featuring a new Sunday special.
Kaka’s Restaurant [$15-$25] – Known for its use of fresh and MSG-free ingredients, serving Filipino dishes with a twist, including their tinomok (tuna and shrimp wrapped in taro leaves).
The 7641 Connect [$25-$45] – Located at the end of the Baywalk, this place is known for its delicious boodle fight (a communal meal served on banana leaves), a classic Filipino dining experience.
Captain Ribs Grill Restaurant & Bar [$20-$35] – Famous for its tender, signature pork ribs, but also offers a variety of grilled meats, fish, and classic Filipino dishes.
Kusina ni Tito Ernie [$15-$25] – A well-loved local eatery offering a wide range of Pinoy comfort food and ulam (main dishes) in a simple, homey setting.
Bona’s Chaolong [$5-$15] – One of the most famous local spots for Chaolong, a Vietnamese-style noodle soup with a Pinoy twist, and their buttered French bread (Palawan’s version of Banh Mi).
Viet Ville Restaurant [$10-$25] – Located outside the city proper (Km 13), this spot used to be a settlement for Vietnamese refugees and serves authentic, delicious Vietnamese cuisine, including Pho and spring rolls.
Baywalk Street Food Area [$5-$15] – A bustling nighttime area where various stalls grill fresh seafood, meat skewers, and offer other Filipino street foods by the bay. Great for a non-touristy local experience.
Diotay’s Eatery [$15-$25] – A local favorite for delicious and affordable fresh seafood, often praised for its garlic shrimp and other classic Palawan seafood preparations.
Pala-Pala Seafood Place [$15-$30] – Similar to a wet market-style restaurant where you can choose your fresh seafood and have it cooked to your preference (e.g., grilled, sinigang, kinilaw).
Canvas Seafood Bar & Grill [$25-$45] – Offers a mix of Filipino and international cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and grilled options in a more contemporary setting.
The Fish Eye [$20-$35] – A highly-rated spot known for its fresh catch of the day, with a menu focused on expertly prepared seafood dishes.
Pamilya Grill [$15-$30] – A grill house offering delicious grilled dishes like spareribs, sate babe (pork satay), and sisig.
Grill at Sabang Wharf [$15-$25] – The area around Sabang Wharf (near the Underground River entrance) has a few simple, no-frills grills serving freshly caught fish and squid, popular with locals and budget travelers.
La Terrasse Café [$20-$40] – Known for its healthy options and refusal to use MSG or artificial enhancers, offering a mix of classic Filipino and international dishes with fresh, local, and often organic ingredients.
Artisans [$20-$35] – A small cafe known for its generous servings of simple but flavorful comfort food with an international flair, located near Ivy Wall Hotel.
White Fence Café [$15-$25] – A charming spot offering quality coffee, pastries, and a menu of light international meals, perfect for breakfast or a casual lunch.
Guni Guni Café [$10-$25] – A cozy, artistic café offering a laid-back atmosphere and a menu of simple, fusion, and local comfort foods, often supporting local art.
Gypsy’s Lair Art Cafe [$15-$25] – Owned by a local artist, this cafe is a hub for the Palawan art community, offering a bohemian ambiance and a menu of comfort food and refreshing drinks.
Kali Zoi Kitchen Bar [$20-$35] – A well-regarded spot for Mediterranean food, offering dishes like kebabs and Greek-inspired plates with a local twist.
El Txoko [$15-$25] – A spot known for Spanish cuisine, particularly praised for its churros, and offering a nice alternative to the local fare.
Tomato and Basil Restaurant [$20-$35] – Located in a resort, but recognized for its authentic Italian cuisine, including wood-fired pizza and fresh pasta.
Fujisan Japanese Restaurant [$15-$30] – A family-owned spot offering a wide range of authentic and affordable Japanese cuisine, including fresh sushi and other Japanese favorites.
Cutting Board [$20-$35] – Known for its tasty, quality food, with a focus on substantial, flavorful Western and Asian fusion dishes.
Palaweño Brewery Taproom [$10-$25] – While a brewery, their taproom serves bar snacks and light meals that pair well with their local craft beers (try the Ayahay beer), making it a unique local stop.
The Fat Belly [$25-$45] – A modern eatery that focuses on quality, creative dishes, often featuring steaks, pasta, and comfort food with a gourmet touch.
Bonas Steak and Seafood [$30-$50] – Offers a higher-end experience for those craving a quality steak or more refined seafood preparation.
I-Fish Bar & Grill [$20-$35] – A relatively new and trendy spot offering grilled seafood, meats, and cocktails in a vibrant, modern setting.
Imas Vegetarian Restaurant [$5-$15] – Voted highly in the Philippines, this quaint spot is a budget-friendly gem offering cheap and delicious vegetarian/vegan versions of local and international dishes.
Namaskar Vegetarian Restaurant [$5-$15] – Another excellent and highly affordable spot offering local dishes that have been veganized, perfect for a healthy and budget-conscious meal.
Neva’s Place [$10-$20] – A local institution, famous for its homemade pizza and pasta, with a charming open-air ambiance housed within captivating ruins after a fire.
Weng Wings [$10-$20] – A popular, casual spot specializing in various flavors of chicken wings and other simple, satisfying grub.
Reef Hotdog [$5-$15] – A fun, casual stop specializing in gourmet hotdogs and other quick bites.
Sizzling Republic [$10-$20] – Known for its various sizzling plates of meat or seafood, a classic Filipino way to serve appetizers and main courses.
La Pizca Bistro [$15-$25] – A good option for simple bistro food, including sandwiches, pasta, and comfort dishes, in a cozy setting.
Cafe Moto [$10-$20] – A highly recommended cafe just across from a major mall, known for its coffee and pastries, and a cool, laid-back vibe.
Meet Up Cafe [$10-$20] – A popular cafe for good coffee, light snacks, and a comfortable place to relax and hang out.
Baker’s Hill [$5-$15] – While technically a destination and park, its bakery is famous for its savory hopia (flaky pastry) and other baked goods, making it a required stop for a sweet souvenir. Often crowded, but for a specific purpose.
Noki Nocs Cafe [$5-$15] – Located near the original Nokinocs, offering a slightly wider cafe menu alongside their famous Halo-Halo.
Bon Ami Bakeshop & Cafe [$10-$20] – A popular spot for local-style cakes, pastries, and a simple cafe menu.
Starry Night Cafe [$15-$25] – Known for its relaxed, bohemian, and artistic atmosphere, offering coffee, light meals, and snacks.
Kalye Ramen [$10-$20] – A casual, street-style ramen joint offering satisfying bowls of Japanese noodles in a vibrant setting.
All-In-One Restaurant [$15-$25] – Located along Rizal Avenue, a good choice for those looking for a mix of ramen and sushi in a relaxed setting.
Sukiyummy [$10-$20] – A local favorite for its Japanese-inspired dishes, especially good for a quick, filling, and affordable meal.
The Secret Garden Restaurant [$20-$35] – Offers a romantic, quiet garden setting with a menu of Filipino and international fusion dishes.
Lale Restaurant [$20-$35] – Known for its ambiance and a menu featuring a blend of Mediterranean and Filipino flavors.
Manga’s Restaurant [$15-$30] – A well-regarded casual dining spot offering a mix of Filipino and Asian fusion dishes.
Pizzeria Roma [$15-$25] – A simple but consistently good Italian restaurant, favored for its authentic pizzas.
Balayong Grill and Bar [$20-$40] – A popular spot for evening dining, offering grilled items and drinks in a relaxed outdoor setting.
The Outpost [$15-$30] – A bar and grill known for its lively atmosphere and good selection of local and international food and drinks.
Vito’s BBQ & Grill [$15-$25] – A fantastic local spot for traditional Filipino BBQ skewers and grilled favorites.
Hibiscus Garden Inn Restaurant [$20-$35] – Located within the inn, this restaurant is known for its quiet, peaceful ambiance and delicious, healthy food options, including good vegetarian choices.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Tiki Resto Bar: Located prominently on Rizal Avenue in the city center, this is a legendary and vibrant spot, famous for its live band performances, dancing, and festive atmosphere. They offer a range of cocktails, local beers, and a full Filipino food menu.
Kinabuchs Grill and Bar: One of Puerto Princesa’s most popular establishments, found on Rizal Avenue. It offers an open-air setting, a wide variety of local cuisine (including exotic dishes like tamilok, or woodworm), and a full bar with cocktails and local spirits, making it a great place to start the night. (Pronunciation: Ki-na-books)
The Boss Pub and Grill: Situated in the heart of the city, this establishment provides a lively atmosphere with delicious grilled specialties and a range of alcoholic beverages, catering to both locals and tourists looking for a fun evening.
J1 Bar and Resto: A well-known spot, often mentioned as a go-to for a younger crowd on Rizal Avenue. It provides a lively, party-like atmosphere with a selection of drinks and music, though patrons sometimes note it can get a bit rowdy.
TAO Bar and Restaurant: This bar, also located near the main nightlife strip on Rizal Avenue, is known for its party-party vibe and a mix of music and drinks, popular for those looking for a high-energy night out.
Hibiscus Restaurant and Bar: Offering a tropical charm with a lush garden ambiance, this spot is located slightly away from the main hub and provides a more relaxed setting to enjoy a drink and a meal.
Tataboom Bar & Restaurant: This venue offers vibrant nightlife that merges delicious food with live music in a tropical setting, making it a well-rounded option for dinner and drinks in Puerto Princesa.
I/O Bar and Restaurant: Situated in the city, this place is known for having a great selection of drinks, tasty bar bites, and a lively atmosphere, making it a good all-around nightspot.
Chez Rose Beach Bar: Located near the water, this bar offers a vibrant ambiance and stunning ocean views, perfect for enjoying a refreshing cocktail as the sun sets.
Tipsy Tiger Gastropub: A modern gastropub concept offering a better selection of pub food and craft cocktails, providing a change of pace from the traditional grill bars.
Palawan Brewery: While primarily a brewery, their taproom, which is generally located slightly outside the city center, is a great spot to enjoy local craft beers and a relaxed, convivial atmosphere, a solid alternative to cocktail bars.
Beerup Taproom: As a dedicated taproom, it’s a haven for beer enthusiasts but also offers a casual, pub-like setting suitable for enjoying other drinks and socializing in a laid-back environment.
station 88 resto bar and private pool: Located near the center, this unique venue blends a resto bar with the amenity of a private pool, offering a relaxed environment for a drink and a dip.
Aztec Grounds Bar: Experience the vibrant nightlife where delicious grilled food meets live music and a lively atmosphere, often found in the main nightlife district.
Sip And Savour: Known for its vibrant atmosphere and a focus on exquisite local flavors, it’s a perfect bar in the city for a combination of relaxation and social interaction.
UG Tavern (UG): Located in the city center (often found on or near Rizal Avenue), this is a popular nightclub/party spot in Puerto Princesa. It is known for playing a mix of 90s hits and other music, attracting a mix of crowds looking for a proper dance floor experience.
J1 Bar and Resto: While also a bar/resto, its atmosphere, especially late at night, often shifts to that of a high-energy, dance-friendly club, particularly popular with the Gen Z crowd.
TAO Bar and Restaurant: Similar to J1, this venue adopts a strong “party-party” club atmosphere later in the evening, providing a dance-focused alternative in the central area.
hotlegs bar: This is often referenced as a local bar with a lively nightlife scene, which frequently transitions into a club-like environment with tropical drinks and music.
108 Bar: Known for its vibrant nightlife, this bar has the atmosphere and energy of a smaller club, offering refreshing drinks and a lively place to dance.
JS Bar: Provides a lively atmosphere and is known for its cocktails and friendly vibes, often hosting a crowd that stays for the music and dancing later in the evening.
Rebay Videoke Bar: While primarily a videoke (karaoke) bar, which is a massive part of Filipino nightlife, the energy is high, often with a mix of singing, drinking, and dancing, making it a unique kind of late-night “club” experience for group fun.
Tiki Resto Bar: As a spot famous for its live bands and dancing, it essentially functions as a large, open-air club with a relaxed Palawan vibe, especially on weekends.
Pool Bar: Located centrally in the city, this spot offers a tropical pub oasis and, during peak hours, the atmosphere can ramp up to a lively, club-like feel around the pool area.
Blue Pinoy Bar and Restaurant: Often offers a vibrant nightlife experience that, depending on the night and event, can feature music and a crowd that stays for a late-night party.
Priscilla’s Restobar: While focused on dining, its restobar status means it extends into a lively evening venue that can offer music and a social, party-like atmosphere for late-night socializing.