The capital of Palawan, Puerto Princesa, has around 260, 000 inhabitants and is home to natural wonders including the famous Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that occupies a place in the New 7 wonders of Nature. It is also a gateway to famous paradise destinations in Palawan like El Nido and San Vicente(Port Barton), as it has its own international airport. But there is more to Puerto Princesa than just being a departure point and a gateway to the famous underground river. Puerto Princesa, also known as ‘The City in a Forest’, offers various little-known but nevertheless must-see tourist sites that deserve more than a day of exploration.
There are various options to choose from including sites, natural parks, outdoor adventure spots, and shopping centers. There are also several islands and beach destinations for memorable adventures where you can enjoy the freshest seafood.
One of the most recommended activities in Puerto Princesa is visiting Honda Bay for an island-hopping excursion. To do this, you board a traditional outrigger boat (known as a ‘banca’) from the sta. Lourdes wharf. It takes between 30 minutes to an hour to reach Honda Bay and explore islands like Cowrie, Starfish, Luli, Pandan, Inaladelan, and more.
Most hotels and restaurants are located in the city center, close to Rizal Avenue, where you can find shopping centers such as SM City Puerto Princesa and Robinsons Place Mall Palawan.
Nightlife is also booming in the city, with bars and clubs located in the city center. This is where you’ll find popular spots such as Baker’s Hills, Mitra’s Ranch, Butterfly Garden Baywalk, Plaza Cuartel (where American POWs were killed by Japanese invaders during World War II, sparking the efforts that led to the Great Raid of Cabanatuan), and the Puerto Princesa International Airport.
If you’re looking for something more urban. There’s Palaweño Brewery that allows you to sample some of its delicious beers. This microbrewery is the only brewery managed by women in the country! There, you can enjoy unique drinks tailored to suit all tastes.
To the Northwest of the city, you can take boat rides to Sabang Beach where most of Puerto Princesa’s natural wonders are located, the most important being the underground river. This is also where you’ll find Sabang Falls, Sabang beach, Sabang X zipline, Sabang jungle trail, numerous caves, Buenavista viewpoint, Isla Felomina, and Ulugan Bay. There are also various accommodation options in the surrounding area.
The Underground River of Puerto Princesa is the site that truly put the city on the world’s radar. The number of daily visitors allowed to access the site is limited, so you cannot enter at will.
Tour operators have VIP access, so even those who prefer to travel independently would benefit from joining an organized tour of Puerto Princesa’s Underground River. The best tour includes everything from audio guides and buffet meals to land and boat transfers.
The Iwahig River is known for its penal colony. However, it is also home to another entirely different population. Visit just before nightfall, and you will see the dazzling light of hundreds of fireflies, floating all around you in a captivating display.
It is both romantic, awe-spiring , and surreal, just like something out of a movie, with the calm river flowing slowly around you. Just make sure to turn off your flash when taking photos, or you will scare the insects away.
To the Northeast of the city, you will find the Batak Cultural Village (a local tribe), the majestic Olangoan and Arutayan Falls, Cleopatra’s Needle.
Olongoan Falls are just a half-hour walk from the main road. This hidden gem in Barangay Binduyan is one of the city’s beautiful waterfalls. The journey to get there is quick, and once you arrive, you can dive into these superb turquoise waters.
For food enthusiasts, you should know that Palawan, in general, has a unique local cuisine. Various establishments in the city offer the opportunity to try crocodile sisig, made with crocodile meat, onion, and peppers – a must try dish. You should also taste tamilok, a dish where harvester wood worms are treated as raw seafood and cooked in vinegar.
The Kalui restaurant is worth a visit; it is certainly one of the best restaurants in the country, offering a unique dining experience. You will need to remove your shoes upon entering, and you have the option to eat with your bare hands. Its rustic ambiance and beautiful interiors make the experience even more special!
A special menu is offered daily, good for two people, and the vegetables of the day. Enjoy the complimentary salad served in a coconut bowl!