Puerto Princesa: Discover Palawan’s Hidden Paradise

Palawan is a long, narrow island in the southwest of the Philippines. The provincial capital, located in the center of Palawan, is Puerto Princesa. Puerto Princesa means "Princess Port". The Underground River and Island Hopping are popular tourist attractions in Puerto Princesa that draw attention from all over the world. Puerto Princesa also boasts two registered World Natural Heritage sites. In the vast mangrove forests of Puerto Princesa, fireflies gather and you can interact with creatures unique to this region. Blessed with mountains and sea, Puerto Princesa is a treasure trove of nature. In the marine park, whale sharks, dolphins, and many other creatures entertain the tourists. Here are some popular tourist spots in Puerto Princesa, a city with many tourist attractions.

1. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, is an underground river located in Puerto Princesa. It is 8.2 km long, of which 4.3 km is open to tourists, and if you want to travel the remaining 3.9 km, you need to get a special permit. You can walk around the river in some of these 3.9 km. It is about two hours by car from Puerto Princesa City. The mountain road on the way offers beautiful scenery from the car window.

Upon entering the Underground River cave, you'll be greeted by a cool and unique atmosphere. You will proceed through the cave with only the light of the tour guide rowing the small boat. The cave remains untouched and preserved in its natural state, allowing you to truly appreciate how the people of Puerto Princesa cherish and protect nature. Experience the power and mystery of nature firsthand.

The tour lasts about 50 minutes. You'll pass through an area with bats, and water droplets from the ceiling that may get your clothes wet, so it's a good idea to wear waterproof clothes. You will need an ID to visit the Underground River, so don't forget to bring any valid ID such as your passport.

2. Honda Bay

Honda Bay is a hugely popular destination for island hopping tours in Puerto Princesa. It comprises five islands: Luli Island, Starfish Island, Pandan Island, Pambato Island Reef, and Cowrie Island.

With their crystal-clear blue waters and sandy beaches, the islands of Honda Bay are a true ocean paradise. Each island offers unique opportunities for enjoying the sea. You can rent snorkeling gear and waterproof cameras, allowing you to feed the fish while snorkeling and admire the vast variety of stunning corals. Lunch is also included in the Honda Bay island hopping tours.

Among the many beaches in Puerto Princesa, the Honda Bay island hopping tour is designed to be a manageable day trip for tourists. It offers a fulfilling experience and is very popular with families with children. Be sure to set aside time in your itinerary for a visit to Honda Bay!

3. Tubbataha Reef

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993, is located approximately 10 hours from Puerto Princesa City. The moment you step foot on this island, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking view of the endless blue sea and horizon. The sheer grandeur of nature will make you lose track of time.

Tubbataha Reefs, the pride of Puerto Princesa, is known as a diving spot. However, due to the monsoon season, diving is only possible from March to June. There are restrictions on diving times and the number of visitors allowed, so be sure to check the latest information before your trip.

Experiencing the marine paradise of Tubbataha Reefs, with close encounters of whale sharks, dolphins, and sea turtles, will be an unforgettable memory that surpasses imagination. Although limited to a 4-month period, it's a precious opportunity to connect with this World Heritage Site in Puerto Princesa. Try to plan your visit accordingly!

4. Immaculate Conception Cathedral

The Immaculate Conception Cathedral is the largest church in Puerto Princesa. Located near the city of Puerto Princesa, it stands quietly as if reflecting the atmosphere of a church. Built in 1950 during the Spanish colonial era, this church, with its blue exterior and interior, towers high into the blue sky. It became a cathedral in 2003.

Inside the cathedral, there are paintings depicting each stage of Jesus Christ's journey to his assassination and a statue of the Virgin Mary. It is a valuable tourist spot where you can see sacred paintings unique to Christianity. Across from the cathedral is Peace Park, where it is said that Japanese soldiers captured and burned American soldiers during World War II. This cathedral is a place where you can feel the history. Many sightseeing routes pass by the cathedral, so be sure to visit it when you come to Puerto Princesa.

5. Puerto Princesa City Baywalk Park

Located on the edge of Puerto Princesa's city center, this baywalk is bustling with locals, tourists, and business people alike. There's an amusement park nearby, and bicycle rentals are available, so it's a great way to explore the area around the baywalk. In the evening, a variety of food stalls pop up one after another. With Puerto Princesa being close to the sea, there are many international cuisines featuring fresh seafood. All of them are delicious... truly one of the best parts of sightseeing! Enjoy a romantic atmosphere as you watch the sunset and feel the sea breeze, spending quality time with your loved ones.

◎ Summary

Puerto Princesa, the natural wonder of Southeast Asia. A place with World Heritage sites, where you can feel the majesty of nature including flora and fauna. Unspeakable excitement awaits you here. In the mountainous areas, there are zip lines, natural hot springs to soothe your body, and spas. You can refresh yourself after a tiring day of activities and sightseeing.

There are still many more tourist attractions in Puerto Princesa that didn’t mentioned and introduced in the article. First, check online for the tourist spots you want to visit, and it's a good idea to book tours in advance. Take a look at the world of Puerto Princesa and the mysteries of nature with your own eyes.

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Puerto Princesa: Discover Palawan’s Hidden Paradise