Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesa is the capital of Palawan and the main entry point for almost every traveler arriving on the island. It's the only city in Palawan with a major airport (PPS), and most flights from Manila, Cebu and Clark land here. But Puerto Princesa is far more than a stopover — it's home to the UNESCO-listed Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.

The Underground River winds 8.2 km through a limestone cave system beneath Mount Saint Paul, and you paddle the first 1.5 km by paddleboat with a guide. Honda Bay, just 20 minutes from the city, offers gentle island hopping at Starfish, Luli and Cowrie islands — perfect for families and first-time snorkelers. After dark, head to Iwahig River for one of Southeast Asia's best firefly cruises.

Most travelers spend 2–3 nights in Puerto Princesa before continuing on to El Nido or Coron. The city itself has excellent restaurants (try KaLui or Kinabuchs), the iconic Baywalk, Baker's Hill, and the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (the crocodile farm).

Why travelers love Puerto Princesa

• UNESCO Puerto Princesa Subterranean Underground River
• Honda Bay island hopping — Starfish, Luli, Cowrie
• Iwahig firefly watching at night
• Palawan Wildlife (Crocodile Farm) and Mitra's Ranch
• Best food scene in Palawan — fresh seafood, KaLui restaurant
• Direct 1h 25m flights from Manila, Cebu and Clark