Puerto Princesa City

Puerto Princesa

The capital of Palawan offering the gateway to the Subterranean River and serving as a base for exploring the region's natural attractions. The city combines colonial charm, waterfront dining, and proximity to mangrove reserves and island tours.

Things to do

• Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park — Take a guided boat tour through the world-famous underground river, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring limestone cliffs, stalactites, and diverse cave ecosystems.
• Honda Bay Island Hopping — Visit nearby islands including Cowrie Island, Pandan Island, and Starfish Island for snorkeling, beach time, and marine biodiversity viewing.
• Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center — Observe endemic wildlife including Palawan peacocks, crocodiles, and other species rescued from the wild in a sanctuary setting.
• Mangrove Paddling Tour — Kayak through Puerto Princesa's mangrove reserves to spot migratory birds, monitor lizards, and experience the region's coastal ecosystem.
• Immaculate Conception Cathedral — Tour this historic Spanish colonial church in the city center, featuring white walls and architectural heritage dating back centuries.
• Baker's Hill — Browse a hilltop complex selling local pastries, handicrafts, and souvenirs with city views overlooking Puerto Princesa Bay.

Food to try

• Kinilaw na Isda — Fresh local fish cured in vinegar and citrus juice with onions and spices, served as a refreshing appetizer showcasing Palawan's fishing heritage.
• Tamilok (Woodworm) — A unique local delicacy of marine shipworms served raw in their shells or cooked with coconut milk, harvested from mangrove areas around the city.
• Bulalo — A hearty beef bone broth soup with potatoes and vegetables, popular as a warming local comfort dish in Puerto Princesa restaurants.
• Seafood Grilled over Charcoal — Fresh catch from local waters grilled with simple seasoning and served at waterfront dining establishments along the bay.
• Palawan Honey and Pastries — Local wild honey and traditional Spanish-influenced pastries sold at shops like Baker's Hill, reflecting the region's agricultural and colonial heritage.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect for Environmental Conservation — Puerto Princesa residents take pride in environmental protection; follow designated trails, avoid littering, and respect sanctuary boundaries during nature tours.
• Morning Market Culture — Visit public markets early morning to experience local life, interact with vendors selling fresh seafood and produce, and sample authentic breakfast foods.
• Spanish Colonial Influence — The city reflects centuries of Spanish heritage visible in architecture, religious practices, and festival celebrations; dress modestly when visiting churches and cultural sites.

Nearby

• Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park — 27 km
• Taytay — 44 km
• Palawan (MIMAROPA) — 62 km
• El Nido — 79 km