Puerto Princesa
Puerto Princesa
Puerto Princesa is a captivating city in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. Located on the island of Palawan, it offers a unique blend of pristine beaches, stunning mountain views and striking wildlife.
The city is best known for its beaches, which are renowned for their crystal clear waters and white sand. Visitors can take part in a variety of exciting water activities, such as snorkeling, scuba diving and kayaking, or simply enjoy the stunning views of the ocean.
In addition to the beaches, Puerto Princesa is home to some of the most spectacular wildlife in the Philippines. Visitors can explore the underground river, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and spot exotic birds, monkeys and other animals.
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Things to do in Puerto Princesa
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Honda Bay Island Adventure: Snorkeling and Beach Hopping
Get ready for an unforgettable day on the water with the Honda Bay Island Hopping tour in Puerto Princesa. This adventure takes you to three stunning islands, each offering its own unique charm. First, you'll visit Luli Island, a sandbar that disappears and reappears with the tides. Its soft sand and crystal-clear waters make it perfect for a relaxing swim or just lounging on the beach. If you're in the mood for a little thrill, there's also a dive platform to take the plunge.
Next, you'll head to Pambato Reef for some fantastic snorkeling. Covering 16 hectares, this vibrant reef is alive with colorful coral and tropical fish like parrotfish, groupers, and spadefish. Your last stop is Cowrie Island, where you can enjoy a delicious buffet lunch and bask in the sun. If you're looking to unwind, you can even treat yourself to a relaxing beachside massage.
This all-inclusive tour covers everything you need for a fun day, including boat rides, snorkel gear, lunch, and hotel pick-up. It's the perfect way to soak in the beauty of Honda Bay without the stress. Just be sure to pack your sunscreen and towel, and get ready to enjoy some island paradise!
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Puerto Princesa Adventure: Cave, Zipline, and Mangroves
Prepare for an exciting day in Puerto Princesa, where adventure awaits at every turn! Your first stop is the incredible Underground River, a captivating cave system that will leave you in awe. As you cruise through the dark passages, an audio guide will share fascinating details about the ecosystem, making you feel like you're in your own Indiana Jones-style adventure—without the danger, of course.
Once you've explored the underground wonder, you'll head to Sabang Beach for a delicious Filipino meal. After filling up, get ready for some adrenaline-pumping fun on the Sabang X zipline. This 800-meter ride offers breathtaking views of the coastline and mountains as you soar through the air at a comfortable pace, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the stunning scenery.
To wrap up your day, you'll take a relaxing paddleboat ride through a tranquil mangrove forest. This peaceful journey provides the perfect opportunity to spot local wildlife and unwind. By the end of this action-packed day, you'll have experienced three distinct adventures, each offering something unique. Just don't forget your sense of adventure (and maybe some bug spray for the mangroves)!
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Underground River Adventure in Puerto Princesa
Embark on an unforgettable adventure to one of nature's most incredible wonders – the Puerto Princesa Underground River. This full-day tour takes you deep into the heart of Palawan, where you'll explore the world’s longest navigable underground river. After a scenic drive from Puerto Princesa, you'll board a boat and journey through the dark, mysterious caverns. Along the way, your guide will highlight fascinating rock formations and, if you're lucky, you might spot some of the cave’s resident bats and swiftlets.
Stretching over 8 kilometers, the underground river winds through an astonishing landscape of stalactites, stalagmites, and otherworldly limestone formations. As you glide through this hidden world, it's impossible not to be awestruck by the natural beauty that surrounds you. After returning to daylight, you'll enjoy a delicious Filipino lunch and have the option to add even more excitement to your day with activities like ziplining or a mangrove boat tour. With hotel pickup and an expert guide leading the way, this tour offers a unique and unforgettable experience of one of the Philippines' most stunning natural attractions.
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Explore Plaza Cuartel
Plaza Cuartel may seem like a peaceful park today, but its history is marked by deep tragedy. During World War II, this site was where many American prisoners of war tragically lost their lives. Now, it stands as a solemn memorial to honor their sacrifices and a reminder of the harsh realities of war.
The plaza has been carefully restored, offering a quiet refuge in the heart of Puerto Princesa. Visitors can explore the old garrison, learn about the site's history, and pay their respects at the memorial. It’s a place that invites contemplation. After reflecting on its history, you can unwind in the park's serene surroundings, with its lush trees and benches offering a peaceful place to rest. Conveniently located near the cathedral, it’s easy to pair this visit with other nearby attractions.
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Explore Baker's Hill
Baker’s Hill is a unique blend of bakery, park, and mini-theme park, making it a one-of-a-kind destination in Puerto Princesa. Initially known for its delicious baked goods, it has evolved into an eccentric attraction with vibrant garden areas filled with quirky statues and photo opportunities, ranging from cartoon characters to religious figures.
While the attractions are fun to explore, the main highlight remains the food. Be sure to try their famous hopia, a beloved Filipino pastry, along with other mouthwatering baked treats. If you're in the mood for more, there's also a restaurant offering hearty meals. As you wander through the themed areas and take in the beautiful views, you’ll find plenty of peaceful spots to relax, making it an enjoyable visit for everyone, especially families with kids.
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Visit Palawan Museum
For a deeper look into the history and culture of Palawan, the Palawan Museum is a must-visit. While it's not the largest museum, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's past. The exhibits showcase the rich traditions and lifestyles of Palawan's indigenous peoples, giving you a deeper understanding of their way of life.
You’ll also come across a variety of artifacts, including ancient tools and traditional clothing. One of the highlights of the museum is the section dedicated to the Tabon Caves, where some of the Philippines' oldest human remains were discovered. Visiting the museum provides valuable context, helping you better appreciate the cultural and historical significance of the sights you'll encounter throughout Puerto Princesa and Palawan.
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Explore Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center
If you've ever wanted to get up close to crocodiles, the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center is the perfect place to do so. This isn't just a zoo—it's a center dedicated to wildlife conservation and education. You'll encounter a variety of crocodile species, ranging from small hatchlings to enormous adults. But that's just the beginning, as the center is also home to many other animals native to Palawan.
The center plays a crucial role in protecting endangered species through its breeding programs, giving you a unique insight into the efforts being made to conserve Palawan’s distinct wildlife. Guided tours provide in-depth knowledge about both the animals and the ongoing conservation work. And if you're lucky enough to catch feeding time, you'll witness the crocodiles in action—it's an experience you won't forget. Just remember to stay safe by keeping your hands inside the viewing areas at all times.
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Magical Firefly Adventure: Puerto Princesa Bay Cruise & Dinner
Picture this: you're on a boat, gliding across Puerto Princesa Bay as the sun dips below the horizon. The city lights start to twinkle in the distance, but that's not the main attraction. As darkness falls, the real show begins – thousands of fireflies light up the mangroves like natural Christmas lights. It's pretty magical stuff.
Before the firefly spectacle, you'll stop at a floating restaurant for dinner. The food is tasty local fare, nothing fancy but definitely hits the spot. After filling up, you'll hop on a smaller boat to get up close to the firefly action. The guide will tell you all sorts of interesting tidbits about these glowing insects and the area's ecosystem. If you're lucky, you might even spot some bioluminescent plankton in the water, which looks like little underwater stars.
The whole experience takes about 4 hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off. It's a chill way to spend an evening and see a side of Puerto Princesa that most people miss. Just remember to bring some bug spray and maybe a light jacket – it can get a bit chilly out on the water at night. Overall, it's a unique adventure that'll give you some cool stories to tell back home.
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Where to stay in Puerto Princesa
Best hotels in Puerto Princesa:
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Royale Parc Hotel Puerto Princesa Palawan (budget hotel)
Royale Parc Hotel in Puerto Princesa is a great spot for anyone looking to chill out in Palawan. It's not far from Pristine Beach, so you can easily get your sand and surf fix. The rooms are comfy and clean, and some even have balconies if you want to soak up some fresh air without leaving your room.
The hotel's got all the basics covered - air con to beat the heat, TVs for when you just want to veg out, and a tasty breakfast to kick off your day. What really makes it stand out though is how friendly the staff are. They're always ready to help you plan your day, whether you're heading to Honda Bay or just wandering around Mendoza Park. If you're after a laid-back vibe in Puerto Princesa, Royale Parc Hotel hits the spot.
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The Funny Lion (luxury hotel)
The Funny Lion in Puerto Princesa is a cool spot that's got everything you need for a relaxing Palawan getaway. It's super close to the airport, which is great if you're eager to start your vacation without a long drive. The rooms are comfy and have all the basics covered - air conditioning, big TVs, and private bathrooms. Nothing fancy, but definitely nice enough to feel at home.
One of the best parts about this place is the outdoor pool. It's perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring or just lounging around with a drink. The restaurant on-site is pretty good too, so you don't have to venture out for every meal. The staff here are really friendly and helpful, always ready with a smile or some local tips. If you're looking for a laid-back place to chill while you check out Palawan, The Funny Lion fits the bill.
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Aziza Paradise Hotel (medium range hotel)
Aziza Paradise Hotel is a great spot for anyone visiting Puerto Princesa. It's close enough to the city's main attractions but still feels like a peaceful getaway. The outdoor pool is perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring, and every room has nice views of the gardens.
The food options are pretty good too. Demeter Diner serves up a mix of local dishes and international favorites, while Kahve Brew is the place to go for a coffee fix or a quick snack. One of the best things about this place is the staff - they're super friendly and always ready to help. Plus, the free airport shuttle is a nice touch that makes getting there a breeze. Whether you're traveling as a couple or with family, Aziza Paradise Hotel ticks a lot of boxes for a comfy stay in Palawan.
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Panja Resort Palawan (resort)
Panja Resort Palawan is a sweet spot in Puerto Princesa that really lets you soak in the beauty of Honda Bay. The views of the islands from here are seriously amazing. You can chill by the outdoor pool or lounge on the sun terrace if you're in the mood to kick back and relax.
When it comes to food, they've got you covered with a mix of local flavors and international dishes at their restaurant. And if you're up for a drink with a view, head to the rooftop bar - the panorama up there is pretty spectacular. The rooms are nice and comfy, done up in calm colors that help you unwind. They've got all the usual stuff like AC and big TVs to keep you comfortable. Plus, the staff is super friendly and they even offer a free shuttle service, which is always a nice touch.
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Best hostels in Puerto Princesa:
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Guni Guni Hostel (hostel)
Guni Guni HostelL in Puerto Princesa is a budget-friendly spot that's perfect for backpackers and solo travelers. It's right in the middle of town, so you're close to everything you need. The beach is nearby, and you can get to the airport in no time. The dorms are comfy with curtains for privacy, which is always a plus when you're sharing a room.
The hostel has a cool vibe with a restaurant that serves up some tasty meals, including stuff for vegetarians. There's also a bar where you can hang out and meet other travelers. If you want to chill, there's a garden area that's pretty relaxing. They've got free WiFi too, so you can keep in touch with folks back home or plan your next adventure. All in all, it's a great base for exploring Palawan without breaking the bank.
