09.06.2026.
Puerto Princesa is the capital of Palawan and a place most travellers pass through very briefly. Though not so spectacular as the beautiful El Nido, Puerto Princesa unfolds the authentic side of Palawan. Puerto Princesa is something like a wonderful Valladolid to the Mexican Yucatan, though Valladolid is much more delightful.
While it’s not known for dreamy beaches, the city has such a local vibe, giving you a different side of the Philippines.
Life here feels more grounded and less tourist-driven, with local markets and Spanish influence. Because of its raw vibe, I would even advise to skip Puerto Princesa and fly directly to El Nido. El Nido will unveil such an adventurous spirit, full of dreamy scenes, that it’s worth exploring on its own.
Puerto Princessa is also a convenient base for some of the island’s most popular day trips. The Underground River is a UNESCO World Heritage, where a slight dose of adventure awaits.
Why to visit Puerto Princesa
Puerto Princesa is worth visiting if you want to experience a more authentic and relaxed side of Palawan. Unlike El Nido, which is all about dramatic limestone cliffs and island hoppng, Puerto Princesa gives you a glimpse into everyday Filipino life.
The city is less touristy, more local and works well as a starting or stopping point for exploring the island. From here, you can join popular excursions like the Underground River or Honda Bay. Simply enjoying a slower couple of days before heading north is even more inviting in a beautiful accommodation.
With traffic that dominates the city, it can be slightly overwhelming than with the paradise vibes of beautiful El Nido.
What makes Puerto Princesa interesting is the contrast- it’s not about „wow scenery“, but about atmosphere and authenticity.
How to get to Puerto Princesa
The easiest way to reach Puerto Princesa is by flight, which is even cheaper the El Nido. As a city has an airport with regular connections from Manila, Cebu and other major Philippine destinations, Palawan delivers more.
Most travellers use it as the entry point to Palawan before continuing their journey to El Nido or Port Baron. From Puerto Princesa, you can travel to El Nido by van. It takes around 5h and you can order it from your accommodation. Otherwise, the public bus offers a slower and longer way across Palawan. Taking a shared van is the most common and convenient option for tourists.
Underground River Tour
The Underground River Tour is one of the most famous attractions in the Philippines, protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a major reason many people stop in Puerto Princesa, as it’s one of the Seven Wonders of Nature.
Before visiting, I honestly thought it was located somewhere inside the city where you could just walk along the river. In reality, It’s 2-3 hours away within a protected National Park.
The tour includes a boat ride into a massive cave system, but you don’t need to kayak yourself. First, you will need to take a boat ride to the bay where the underground river lies. Passing through the short forest full of monkeys, you’ll reach the river place. Now, you’ll change to the smaller boats while listening to the audio about the river world.
Is it worth visiting the Underground River?
Here, an underground river flows through the impressive limestone formations. Each one represents a story, resembling to fruits, animals, cathedral.
Inside, it’s quite peaceful and you only hear the sound of sails. This allows the magic of the silence to flow on the surface.
It’s quite touristy and organised, but still a unique experience and definitely worth it in Palawan. If you’re first time in Palawan, I would rather skip the Underground River and make my journey more delightful in El Nido.
Honda Bay island hopping
This paradise set of islands is the most popular day trip from Puerto Princesa. I didn’t personally get the chance to visit, but it’s often recommended as a relaxed island-hopping tour. With white sand beaches and clear waters, the Honda Bay tours include Starfish, Cowrie and Luli islands.
Though the organized tour is the most common way to visit the Honda Bay, you can also do it on your own. Take a tricycle for roughly 700 pesos or much cheaper jeepney to Sta. Lourdes Wharf. Going on a tour involves registering on the wharf and paying the entrance and environmental fee. In front of the pier, you can even find people to split the costs.
Tours usually include several stops for swimming and snorkelling, plus a beachside lunch. Honda Bay is a stunning option if you want a lighter, less crowded island-hopping experience without travelling far.
Puerto Princesa Beaches
Puerto Princesa is not usually known as a beach destination, especially compared to El Nido or Boracay. There are still a few beautiful beaches worth visiting nearby.
Nagtabon Beach is probably the most popular option due to its long stretch of golden sand and relaxed atmosphere.
Talaudyong Beach is another quieter spot surrounded by nature and palm trees, perfect if you’re looking for a more peaceful escape.
These beaches are much less developed and touristy than the famous northern part of Palawan. While they may not be a reason to visit Puerto Princesa, but a reminder to stop for a beach view.
Puerto Princesa City Attractions
Puerto Princesa doesn’t have a long list of major attractions, but there are a few pleasant spots to explore nearby. The city has a surprisingly beautiful Cathedral, and it’s interesting to visit during Sunday masses. Around the Cathedral, the kids play basketball and other sports, so it’s fun to mingle with locals.
Walk around the seaside promenade surrounded by markets in the rough boat scenes. This casual atmosphere will let you watch how the locals gather in the evening.
It’s not about the sightseeing highlights, but more about soaking in the local rhythm of life. Walking around the city gives you a simple but interesting look at everyday Palawan beyond the tourist trail.
Baker’s Hill- A Picturesque Bakery With The View
One of the most surprising places in Puerto Princesa is Baker’s Hill and honestly, it alone makes the stop worthwhile. It feels like a small theme park filled with the most amazing sculptures and playful decorations. A nice view over the surrounding green hills makes it even more astonishing. My Instagram reel will give you a better impression of Baker’s Hill.
Despite the name, you won’t find fresh bakery items here, but rather boxes of Filipino cookies and snacks. It’s more of a fun stop than a culinary experience, but definitely a memorable one.
Inside a complex, you’ll find several restaurants and fast food kiosks.
Nearby, you can also visit the Butterfly Garden and Mitra Ranch. Known for its panoramic views of the landscape around Puerto Princesa, the last one deserves its peaceful vibes.
Book a city tour to reach all these wonderful places or take a tricycle to admire Baker’s Hill.
Where to stay in Puerto Princesa
100% Cafe Moto Hostel– this is where I stayed, which is a bit away from the city center but still easy to reach with a great mall across. Though there’s a lovely garden, I didn’t like how they announced having breakfast but you only get two small peace of toast without coffee or similar. The rooms are cozy, however.
Palawan Co-living $ Co-working Club– not far from the center and the airport, this a big mansion with an amazing seaside view. With a stylish design, you can also enjoy amazing pool.
Marina Palawan Nature Hostel– nestled in the heart of the city, it’s a tranquil place with an eco design. Surrounded by the mangrove forest, you can relax by the charming pool.
Final thoughts
Puerto Princesa may not be the most spectacular destination in the Philippines, but offers something different from the famous hotspots. The city has a more authentic and local atmosphere, a slower pace and a few unique attractions that make it worth your visit.
From the famous Underground River to the heavenly Honda Bay and fun spots like Baker’s Hill, you won’t be bored.
Still, if your time in Palawan is limited and your priority is island scenery, choose more time in El Nido. Puerto Princesa is less about postcard-perfect views and more about experiencing another side of the Philippines that many travellers pass through.
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Very cool! Thanks for sharing!
I’d never heard of the UNESCO underground river, but it looks quite interesting. Is it possible to kayak through the river, even if it’s on a tour?
Interesting, I had no idea the underground river is a UNESCO World Heritage Site! That is amazing. Thank you for sharing!”
I have only been to Malapascua island. Palawan and a few other islands of Philippines are on my list. I will remember this laid back city and the underground river tour for sure.
The underground river tour looks wonderful. Too bad you didn’t get to do the Honda Bay island hopping. I think it’s the reason to go back.
definitely making me sorry for leaving Palawan out of the itinerary when I visited Philippines a couple of years back, it has such a unique vibe to it!
Interesting perspective on Puerto Princesa. Most travel guides focus almost entirely on El Nido, so it was nice to read about the more local and authentic side of Palawan. The Underground River sounds like a fascinating experience, and I appreciate your honest comparison between the different destinations. Thanks for sharing both the highlights and the practical tips!