Puerto Princesa City Guide — Attractions, Food & Tips

Puerto Princesa City GuideA pristine island paradise where limestone cliffs rise from turquoise lagoons, underground rivers wind through ancient caves, and some of the world's most spectacular marine life thrives beneath crystal-clear waters.Key Facts

Country: Philippines

Currency: PHP (Philippine Peso)

Language: Filipino / English

Time Zone: UTC+8

Best Time to Visit: December–March

Top Places to Visit

Puerto Princesa Underground River — An 8.2 km navigable underground river winding through a spectacular limestone cave, one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Boat tours glide past dramatic stalactites, cathedral-like chambers, and bat colonies.

El Nido Island-Hopping — The crown jewel of Palawan. Four standard tours (A, B, C, D) take you through emerald lagoons, secret beaches, snorkeling reefs, and towering karst cliffs that defy imagination.

Honda Bay — A scattering of small islands with white sand beaches, coral gardens, and clear waters just 30 minutes from Puerto Princesa. Starfish Island, Cowrie Island, and Luli Island are the highlights.

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park — A remote marine sanctuary in the middle of the Sulu Sea, accessible only by liveaboard dive boats (March-June). Over 600 fish species and 360 coral species in pristine conditions.

Big Lagoon — Paddle a kayak through towering limestone walls into a vast emerald lagoon surrounded by jungle-covered cliffs. The most photographed spot in all of Palawan.

Local Food

Tamilok (Woodworm) — Palawan's most famous (and daring) delicacy — a fresh mangrove woodworm eaten raw with vinegar and chili. Surprisingly delicious with a slimy, oyster-like texture. Not for the faint-hearted.

Chicken Inasal — Succulent grilled chicken marinated in annatto, calamansi, and lemongrass, basted with margarine while grilling. Served with garlic rice and a vinegar dipping sauce.

Kinilaw (Ceviche) — Fresh raw fish cured in vinegar and calamansi juice with onions, ginger, and chili. The Filipino version of ceviche, best enjoyed seaside with the day's catch.

Halo-Halo — The ultimate Filipino dessert — a towering glass of shaved ice layered with sweet beans, jellies, coconut, purple yam, leche flan, and evaporated milk. Essential in the tropical heat.

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