Top Things to Do in Puerto Princesa, Philippines
This coastal city on Palawan Island may not be the most famous resort in the Philippines, but don’t underestimate it. From island hopping to boat trips through the Underground River and treks to waterfalls, the watery landscape of Puerto Princesa provides a true sense of discovery.
1. Go island hopping in Honda Bay
Natural Feature
Explore the islands of Honda Bay and spend a whole day enjoying the sand and sea. From a spot a 20-minute drive north of the city centre, boat trips head out to the islands of Cowrie, Starfish, Luli and Pandan. Luli Island is a beautiful sandbar that’s so named because it sinks (lulubog being the Tagalog word for sink) during high tide, and rises (lilitaw) during low tide. During its disappearing act you will still be able to find food and cocktail stands – on stilts.
2. Hike to Olangoan Falls
Natural Feature
3. Go beer tasting at the only craft brewery in the province
Craft Ale Bar, Beer
Sometimes, holidays are simply about sitting back with an ice-cold beer. Pull up a seat in the taproom of Palaweño Brewery, the only women-run brewery in the country. If you’re intrigued to know more, it offers a tour of its operations (every step of the beer making process is done manually and on site), a beer tasting menu and passionately crafted beers infused with local ingredients. Try Honey Kölsch, a German-style beer made with Palawan honey.
4. Visit the Underground River
Natural Feature, Park
5. Go zip lining and spelunking in Ugong Rock
Natural Feature
6. Watch the sunset from Nagtabon View Deck
Natural Feature
One of the best places in Puerto Princesa to catch the sunset is about a half-hour drive from the city centre. On a late afternoon, head north towards Nagtabon Beach but drive uphill instead and stop at the Nagtabon View Deck. From there, you’ll want to linger and watch the view over the cove of Nagtabon as the sun casts its glow over the sea and disappears behind the horizon.
7. Watch fireflies twinkle along the Iwahig River
Natural Feature
To finish a day in Puerto Princesa in the most enchanting way, take a tour on the Iwahig River. A small paddle boat will cruise among the mangroves, in firefly territory. In the dark, all you will hear is the hushed voice of your guide and the paddle in the water, and all you’ll see is the plankton glowing beneath the surface of the river and the thousands of fireflies lighting up the mangroves.
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