Puerto Princesa is one of the well-known places in Palawan. The foremost city of Palawan earned its name from Queen Isabela II’s daughter, Princess Asuncion. After Princess Asuncion’s untimely death, Queen Isabela II declared the city to be named Puerto de la Princesa. The name was slowly reduced until it simply became Puerto Princesa as time passed. 

Puerto Princesa is usually the gateway to other famous destinations such as El Nido and Coron, but this provincial capital has a lot to offer on its own. Discover the top attractions and activities in Puerto Princesa to help you plan out the best way you can enjoy your visit. We’ll help you optimize your itinerary, accommodations, and restaurant picks. 

Where to explore

One of the carefully preserved ecotourist destinations is the Puerto Princesa Underground River. As one of the new seven wonders of the world, people can’t get enough of this top attraction of Puerto Princesa. It always leaves visitors undoubtedly mesmerizing. To explore the cave within the river, one needs to secure permits from the tourism office.

Another natural sight to see, especially at night, is the fireflies at the Iwahig River. Fireflies are rarely seen due to bright night lights, but their luminescence is solid and confident in this area. A boat ride good for three may be booked with the Iwahig Community Association, which looks after the river.

Dive into the waters

As expected, when you’re visiting a tropical city located on an island filled with gorgeous natural sceneries, swimming and exploring the aquatic world should be among your highest priorities. The Tubbataha Reef is among the top spots globally because of its wide range of marine life. Laws are in place to protect the Reef from any illegal activities due to its significance and prominence to Puerto Princesa’s tourism and natural contributions. As for activities such as diving, permits can be secured through the Tubbataha Reef National Park administration office.

Now, if you’re looking for some vitamin sea, Puerto Princesa’s Nagtabon and Sabang beaches feature clear seas and powdery sands similar to what’s frequently seen in travel magazines and blogs. These beaches offer a serene view with little to no cellular signal allowing you to immerse yourself and become one with the ocean. It’s ideal for a secluded and detached beach trip.

Connect with the city’s past and culture

Apart from the natural sites, Puerto Princesa’s historical and heritage areas are also a must-see. Memorabilia from World War II can be visited at the Special Battalion World War II Museum. The museum was built by the family of Dr. Higinio Mendoza Sr, a local hero.

Meanwhile, Plaza Cuartel is an open-air park with a rich yet dark background. A military base during the Spanish period, this piece of land was a tragic venue during World War II. In 1944, 150 American Prisoners of War were burned alive – an event known as the Palawan Massacre. Currently, the park presents historical markers that serve as reminders of what the plaza was back in the day.

If you want to catch a glimpse of pre-historic Palawan, the Palawan Heritage Center located at the Capitol is a worthwhile visit. The museum showcases the variety of ethnic cultures spread in the entire province. Expect interactive presentations placed across the museum to elevate the experience.

The best of Filipino food and fine dining

Puerto Princesa has a wide range of delectable dishes that can be eaten and bought at any budget.

For homey local cravings, Kalui’s Restaurant can definitely hit the sweet spot. Set in a traditional Bahay Kubo, guests are encouraged to enter the venue barefoot for that ultimate Filipino dining experience. The menu comprises Filipino dishes made from fresh produce and seafood that are sure crowd chasers. 

The Badjao Seafront Restaurant offers the freshest seafood dishes coupled with the rustic vibe of the trees and the sea. It presents an artsy modernist take on Filipino favorites that Gypsy’s Lair provides. Generally, the restaurant serves savory main dishes and mouthwatering desserts alongside curated art pieces.

Pasalubong shopping

For all shopping needs before heading to your itineraries, Robinson’s Place Palawan is one place to go. Meanwhile, if you want a souvenir or you know someone who would appreciate a gift from Puerto Princesa, handicrafts and traditional handlooms are available at Asiano, Binauatan, and Kaingud. These stores are found in the city proper, and they serve as last-minute locations to buy pasalubongs.

Spend a night or two or more

Of course, one day isn’t enough to enjoy all the wonderful and exciting things Puerto Princesa has to offer. Luckily, the city provides many accommodation options that efficiently meet your budget. 

Astoria Hotel showcases a luxurious vibe perfect for families, couples, and even individual guests. Meanwhile, Globetrotters Inn has spacious rooms that can fit big groups on a budget. Finally, Hibiscus Garden Inn is a luxurious villa that provides privacy and relaxation.

Related article: Where to Stay in Palawan For a Lavish Holiday

The best time to go to Puerto Princesa is just about any time. However, to secure longer times on the beach and get the best of all sight-seeing activities, most locals recommend visiting Puerto Princesa during the dry season, which is about October to May each year. 

Don’t deny yourself the simple pleasures of life, and book yourself a trip to Puerto Princesa if it’s calling you. You certainly won’t regret it.  

Featured Image: HowDoIGo.Asia