Let’s be real - Puerto Princesa isn’t usually the highlight of a Palawan itinerary. Most backpackers land here, crash for a night, and head straight to El Nido or Port Barton. And fair enough, those places are incredible. But if you give Puerto Princesa a little time, you’ll find it’s got more to offer than just an airport and a jumping-off point.
From underground rivers to beachside chill spots and surprisingly good food, this city can be more than just a stopover. So if you’re passing through, here’s how to make the most of it- whether that’s squeezing in some sightseeing, finding the best cheap eats, or just kicking back with a cold beer before your next adventure.
Travelling The Philippines? Read: The Ultimate Backpacking Guide to The Philippines
When to visit Puerto Princesa
Puerto Princesa is best visited during the dry season, from November to May, when the weather is warm and sunny, and there’s less chance of rain disrupting your plans.
Peak Season (December–April): The best weather but also the busiest and most expensive time. Perfect if you’re planning to explore the Underground River or island hop without worrying about rain.
Shoulder Season (May & November): Still mostly dry, with fewer crowds and slightly lower prices. A good balance if you want decent weather without the peak season rush.
Rainy Season (June–October): Cheaper accommodations and fewer tourists, but expect heavy rains, especially in July and August. If you’re flexible and don’t mind a bit of rain, you can still enjoy the city’s food scene and nearby beaches.
How to get to Puerto Princesa
Puerto Princesa is the main transport hub of Palawan, making it easy to reach whether you’re flying in from another island or travelling overland from elsewhere in Palawan. Here’s everything you need to know:
From Other Islands in the Philippines
By Plane
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Puerto Princesa, especially from major cities.
From Manila (1.5 hours) – Multiple daily flights with budget airlines like Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, and Philippine Airlines. This is the most common route for travellers.
From Cebu (1.5 hours) – Direct flights are available, making Cebu a good alternative hub for those coming from the Visayas or Mindanao.
From Iloilo (1 hour) – A less frequent but useful option if you’re exploring the Visayas.
From Davao or Clark (1.5–2 hours) – Occasionally available, though routes and schedules can be inconsistent.
By Ferry
If you’re up for a slow but budget-friendly adventure, ferries connect Puerto Princesa with other islands.
From Manila (24 hours) – 2Go Travel operates a ferry, which runs a few times a week. It’s a long journey, but if you’re not in a rush, it’s a cheap alternative. Expect bunk-bed dorm setups.
From Iloilo, Cuyo, and Coron – Montenegro Lines and Atienza Shipping Lines run ferries between these destinations and Puerto Princesa. Schedules can be inconsistent, so check ahead.
From Other Places in Palawan
If you’re already in Palawan, reaching Puerto Princesa is fairly straightforward, though some routes take time.
From El Nido (5 – 6 hours)
By Van (5 – 6 hours, ₱600 – ₱800) – The most common option for backpackers. Vans leave regularly from El Nido town and drop you off in Puerto Princesa city center. Some companies offer direct hotel pick-up.
By Bus (6 – 7 hours, ₱500 – ₱700) – Cherry Bus and RoRo Bus offer a slightly more spacious but slower ride. Choose the air-conditioned option for comfort.
By Private Transfer (₱6,000 – ₱8,000 per car) – Ideal if you’re in a group and want a more comfortable ride.
From Port Barton (3 – 4 hours)
By Van (3 – 4 hours, ₱500–₱700) – The quickest and most common way. Vans leave a few times a day from Port Barton town.
By Bus (4 – 5 hours, ₱400–₱500) – Less frequent than vans but can be a cheaper alternative.
From Sabang (1.5 – 2 hours) (for the Underground River)
By Van (1.5–2 hours, ₱300 – ₱500) – The fastest option, usually arranged as part of an Underground River tour.
By Bus (2 hours, ₱200 – ₱300) – Less frequent but available for budget travelers.
From Coron (10 – 12 hours by ferry + 5 – 6 hours by van)
There are no direct ferries from Coron to Puerto Princesa, so you’ll need to stop in El Nido first. Take the Coron to El Nido ferry (5 – 6 hours, ₱1,800 – ₱2,500). Then, take a van or bus from El Nido to Puerto Princesa (5 – 6 hours, ₱600 – ₱800).
From Balabac (10–12 hours total travel time)
If you’ve been exploring Balabac, getting back to Puerto Princesa takes some effort. Take a boat from Balabac to Rio Tuba (1.5 – 2 hours, ₱300 – ₱500). From Rio Tuba, catch a van to Puerto Princesa (6 – 7 hours, ₱600 – ₱800).
Getting from Puerto Princesa Airport to the City
Puerto Princesa International Airport is only 5–10 minutes from the city center, so transport is quick and easy:
Tricycle (₱100 – ₱150) – The most common option for solo travellers or couples. Always negotiate the price before hopping in.
Taxi (₱200 – ₱300) – More comfortable but pricier.
Hotel Pick-Up – Some hotels and hostels offer free or paid transfers, so check in advance.
Getting Around Puerto Princesa
Getting around Puerto Princesa is easy and budget-friendly, even though there’s no formal public transport system like buses or trains.
Tricycle
The most common way to get around is by tricycle, which you’ll find everywhere in the city. Short rides within town usually cost between ₱20 – ₱50 per person, while longer trips to places like Honda Bay or Baker’s Hill can be ₱100 – ₱200. If you’re planning to visit multiple spots in a day, you can also hire a tricycle for a private tour, usually for around ₱600 – ₱1,000. Just make sure to negotiate the fare before hopping in, as drivers rarely use meters.
Motorbike
For those who prefer more independence, renting a motorbike is a great option, especially if you want to explore places like Nagtabon Beach, Honda Bay, or even Sabang at your own pace. Rentals typically cost ₱300 – ₱600 per day, and fuel is cheap. The traffic in Puerto Princesa isn’t too chaotic, but if you’re venturing out of the city, be mindful of rough roads, especially after rain. Always check the bike’s condition before renting and take photos of any existing scratches to avoid issues when returning it.
Jeepney
If you’re looking for the absolute cheapest way to get around, jeepneys are available, though they’re less common than in bigger cities like Manila. They follow set routes and can take you to local areas like Irawan, San Jose, and Sta. Lourdes, with fares usually between ₱15 – ₱50 per ride. However, jeepney routes aren’t always well-documented, so asking locals for directions is the best way to figure out which one to take.
Shared Vans
For trips outside the city, shared vans are the most convenient option. You can take a van from Puerto Princesa to Sabang for the Underground River for about ₱300 – ₱500, or to Honda Bay for around ₱100 – ₱200 per way. If you’re heading further, you can book a van transfer to El Nido or Port Barton directly from your hostel or a travel agency in town. Vans are faster than buses but can be a bit cramped, so they’re best for travellers who don’t mind close quarters for a few hours.
Taxi/Grab
Unlike other major cities in the Philippines, taxis are rare in Puerto Princesa, and ride-sharing apps like Grab don’t operate here. Some hotels can arrange taxis or private cars, but they tend to be more expensive than tricycles or vans. If you’re heading to a remote area and need a guaranteed ride back, it’s best to arrange return transport in advance.
Where to stay in Puerto Princesa
Things to do in Puerto Princesa
Puerto Princesa is often seen as just a gateway to Palawan’s more famous spots, but if you take the time to explore, you’ll find plenty of things to do. From underground rivers and island hopping to waterfalls and nightlife, here are the best things to check out:
1. Explore the Underground River
One of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is an absolute must-visit. This 8.2km-long underground river winds through a limestone cave system, filled with impressive rock formations and a colony of bats. Tours typically include a boat ride into the cave, an audio guide explaining its history, and a stop at Sabang Beach. You’ll need to book a tour in advance, as access is limited to a certain number of visitors per day.
2. Go Island Hopping in Honda Bay
Just a short ride from the city, Honda Bay offers some of the best island hopping near Puerto Princesa. Join a tour or rent a boat to visit Starfish Island, Luli Island, and Cowrie Island, each known for their white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Snorkeling here is great, with colorful fish and vibrant coral reefs. If you want a more chilled-out beach day, Cowrie Island has hammocks, beach bars, and plenty of space to relax.
3. Chase Waterfalls at Nagtabon & Olangoan Falls
Puerto Princesa has some underrated waterfalls, perfect for a break from the city heat. Olangoan Fallsis a refreshing swimming spot tucked away in the jungle, with multiple cascades and pools. It’s less touristy than most other attractions, making it a great off-the-beaten-path stop. If you’re up for an adventure, you can also visit Estrella Falls, which has cool, turquoise water and is a favorite among locals.
4. Relax at Nagtabon Beach
If you’re looking for a quiet, uncrowded beach near the city, Nagtabon Beach is the best option. Unlike the island-hopping beaches of Honda Bay, Nagtabon is a long stretch of sand on Palawan’s west coast, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing (depending on the season). You can rent a motorbike and drive there in about 45 minutes, making it a great half-day trip.
5. Visit the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm
This is one of the most unique experiences in Puerto Princesa. Iwahig Prison is an open-air rehabilitation facility where prisoners live and work in a community-like setting. Some of them sell handicrafts and souvenirs, and visitors can chat with them and learn about the prison’s alternative justice system. It’s an eye-opening experience that few travelers take the time to see.
6. Try the Local Food at Kinabuchs or KaLui
Puerto Princesa has some great spots to try Filipino food. KaLui is one of the most famous restaurants, serving fresh seafood in a cozy, barefoot-style setting. Another popular spot is Kinabuchs Grill & Bar, where you can try unique dishes like crocodile sisig or Tamilok (woodworm), a Palawan delicacy. If you’re not feeling adventurous, they also serve classic Filipino favorites like grilled squid and pork barbecue.
7. Experience Puerto Princesa’s Nightlife
The city has a small but fun nightlife scene, mostly centered around Rizal Avenue. Tiki Resto Bar is a great place for live music and cocktails, while Palaweño Brewery offers craft beers made with local flavours. For backpackers looking for a more laid-back vibe, Katabom Bar is a chill spot with cheap drinks and a good mix of backpackers and locals.
8. Go Firefly Watching on the Iwahig River
For something more relaxing, take a firefly-watching tour on the Iwahig River. As you cruise along the river at night, thousands of fireflies light up the mangrove trees, creating a magical, glowing display. Some tours also include a bit of stargazing, as the area has little light pollution.
9. Visit Baker’s Hill for Pasalubong (Souvenirs & Snacks)
Baker’s Hill is a quirky park that’s home to a famous local bakery and souvenir shop. It’s a great place to try hopia (a sweet pastry filled with mung bean or ube) and grab some pasalubong (local snacks and gifts) to take home. The area also has a few gardens, animal statues, and a small playground, making it a fun stop if you have some extra time.
10. Discover the Underground Bar Scene
Puerto Princesa has a few hidden bars that are worth checking out. Hemingway’s is a Cuban-inspired bar with great mojitos, while Kinabuchs has a mix of locals and backpackers, creating a lively atmosphere. For a more chill night, Tiki Resto Bar is a great place to grab a drink and listen to live music.
Places to Eat and Drink in Puerto Princesa
Where to Eat
KaLui Restaurant – Famous for fresh seafood and a cozy, barefoot dining experience. A must-visit!
Kinabuchs Grill & Bar – Popular for Filipino dishes like crocodile sisig and Tamilok (woodworm), plus a lively atmosphere.
Badjao Seafront Restaurant – Over-the-water dining with great seafood and sunset views.
Kusina ni Tito Ernie – Affordable local eats with big portions and a backpacker-friendly vibe.
Namaskar Vegetarian Café – A hidden gem for healthy and vegetarian-friendly meals.
Baker’s Hill – Great for snacks, hopia (Filipino pastry), and pasalubong (souvenirs).
Where to Drink
Tiki Resto Bar – Best for live music, cocktails, and a fun backpacker crowd.
Palaweño Brewery – The only craft brewery in Palawan, serving local-flavoured beers like honey nut brown ale.
Hemingway’s – Cuban-inspired bar with great mojitos and a chill vibe.
Katabom Bar – Laid-back spot with cheap drinks, a mix of locals and travellers, and a reggae vibe.
Kinabuchs Grill & Bar – Good for food, but also great for beers and a lively nightlife scene.
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