Puerto Princesa

Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Sophie King, John Santos
18/08/2025
Captivating beach and cliffs in El Nido, Philippines under a vivid blue sky.
Cedrick Samonte, Pexels

Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan, is recognized as an Eco-Tourism Center, offering a blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences. It is renowned for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, as well as vibrant island-hopping adventures in Honda Bay.

For those seeking to socialize, Rizal Avenue serves as a central hub with a lively nightlife scene, featuring bars like Kinabuchs Grill & Bar and Tiki Resto Bar, where both locals and travelers gather. The city also has hostels known for their social atmosphere, and the Puerto Princesa City Baywalk Park provides a relaxed setting for evening strolls and enjoying local food with others.

Top 5 Things to do in Puerto Princesa

Activities encompass exploring natural underground rivers, island hopping, observing bioluminescent fireflies, and engaging in caving and ziplining adventures.

1. Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour

Embark on an extraordinary journey into the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. A paddle boat takes visitors inside a limestone cave system, where magnificent rock formations, thousands of bats, and swiftlets create a unique atmosphere. The tour typically lasts about an hour inside the cave and requires permits, which are usually arranged by tour operators. It is best to plan this trip in advance.

Cost: Tour packages typically range from PHP 1,850 to PHP 2,500 per person, often including roundtrip transfers, permits, and lunch. The entrance fee alone is PHP 500 for international adults.

Transport: The Underground River is about 80 km from Puerto Princesa City. Most visitors join organized tours that include air-conditioned van transfers from hotels to Sabang Port (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours), followed by a short boat ride to the river's entrance. Public transportation options like jeepneys or non-air-conditioned buses are available from San Jose Terminal to Sabang, with a fare of around PHP 130-150 and a travel time of 2-3 hours.

2. Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour

Discover the pristine islands and vibrant marine life of Honda Bay on an island-hopping adventure. Popular stops typically include Cowrie Island, Luli Island, and Starfish Island, each offering unique opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on white sandy beaches. Cowrie Island is known for its amenities and picnic spots, Luli Island for its disappearing sandbar at high tide, and Starfish Island for its abundance of starfish. This full-day tour provides a quintessential tropical experience.

Cost: Shared tours cost around PHP 1,500 to PHP 1,990 per person, including transfers, guide, entrance fees, boat fees, and picnic lunch. An environmental fee of PHP 150 per person is usually payable on-site. Snorkeling gear and aqua shoes can be rented at the wharf.

Transport: Most tours include air-conditioned van transfers from hotels in Puerto Princesa City to Honda Bay Wharf (Santa Lourdes Pier), which is about a 30 to 45-minute drive from the city center.

3. Iwahig Firefly Watching Tour

Experience a magical evening gliding along the serene Iwahig River, surrounded by mangrove forests illuminated by thousands of twinkling fireflies. This eco-friendly tour offers a captivating glimpse into nature's bioluminescent wonders, resembling a living Christmas tree. Guides provide insights into the river's ecosystem and point out constellations. It is a peaceful and enchanting activity perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Cost: Tour packages typically cost from $37.89 per person (approx. PHP 2,200), including van transfers, a licensed tour guide, paddle boat, and entrance fees. Some tours may offer an optional buffet dinner. A boat rental for self-serve is around PHP 600, good for 3 persons.

Transport: Tours typically include air-conditioned van transfers from hotels in Puerto Princesa City. The journey to Iwahig River takes approximately 35 to 45 minutes from the city proper.

4. Ugong Rock Adventures

Engage in an exhilarating adventure at Ugong Rock, a towering limestone formation. The experience involves spelunking through narrow caves, climbing ladders, and navigating unique rock formations, all while a community guide assists. After reaching the summit, a panoramic view awaits. The descent is often by an exciting zipline, with options for a 'Superman' or sitting position, offering a thrilling end to the caving experience. This activity is frequently combined with the Underground River tour.

Cost: Spelunking alone costs approximately PHP 300. The zipline (sitting position) is around PHP 550 including spelunking, while the 'Superman' zipline is around PHP 650. Tour packages combining Ugong Rock with the Underground River are common, costing around PHP 2,500 for both.

Transport: Ugong Rock is located about 1 to 1.5 hours from Puerto Princesa city center. It can be reached by booking a tour that includes transfers, or by taking a multi-cab or jeepney from San Jose Terminal towards Sabang, alighting at the Ugong Rock junction (approx. PHP 150). Private vans for hire are also available.

5. Nagtabon Beach

Discover Nagtabon Beach, a tranquil escape from the city's hustle, known for its pristine white sand, clear blue waters, and serene atmosphere. This less-frequented gem is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and beachcombing. During suitable wave conditions, surfing can also be enjoyed. It offers a more laid-back experience compared to more crowded tourist spots, perfect for those seeking peace and natural beauty.

Cost: As of recent information, there is generally no entrance fee to Nagtabon Beach. Cottage rentals start from PHP 200.

Transport: Nagtabon Beach is located approximately 30-34 km from Puerto Princesa City center, about a 40-60 minute drive. Options include renting a motorbike (from PHP 500 per day) or a car (from PHP 2,000 per day). Taxis can cost around $9-11 for a one-way trip. A roundtrip tricycle hire can cost around PHP 1,000. Public buses bound for El Nido, Sabang, or Roxas can drop you at Bacungan (approx. PHP 30), from where a tricycle can be taken to the beach road (approx. PHP 60).

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