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Puerto Princesa

Philippines · Coast · PHP · 9.750000, 118.750000
Family friendly 6.7/10 · Rank 1024 of 2 709
Best season: December-May (dry season)

Best for

For nature lovers, caves, underground rivers, snorkeling and beach holidays.

Best season

December-May (dry season)

Daily budget
$62.00 (≈ 5 203 ₽ · ≈ 3 472 PHP)
For 7 days
$434.00 (≈ 36 421 ₽ · ≈ 24 304 PHP)
Puerto Princesa is the capital and largest city of Palawan Island, known for its cleanliness and order. Its main attraction is the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city offers an excellent base for exploring the wildlife and pristine beaches of Palawan, and is also famous for its crocodile farms and colonial cathedrals.
Summer
33.0°C
Winter
24.0°C
Sea
30.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

calm

Pace of life

slow

Local character

Hospitable, friendly, nature-loving.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • UNESCO World Heritage site
  • Underground River — unique natural phenomenon
  • Beautiful beaches and islands
  • Affordable prices
  • Authentic atmosphere

Cons

  • Dangerous sea urchins and corals
  • Limited infrastructure
  • Rainy season
  • Remoteness from major cities
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
27.3°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
32.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
33.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
26.6°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
30.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
24.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
29.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
30.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
June-October
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
golden sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
mild
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
good
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Sabang Beach, Nagtabon Beach
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
No
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
Yes
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
No
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
Present
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
Present
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Main dangers are sea urchins, corals and jellyfish. No lifeguards on beaches.

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins occur on coral reefs

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs along the coast, do not step on them

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish appear seasonally, stings can be painful

Sharks — details

  • Hammerhead shark (Sphyrna spp.) — found in Palawan waters, large but rarely dangerous to humans
  • Blacktip reef shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus) — common on reefs, shy and not dangerous
  • Whitetip reef shark (Triaenodon obesus) — found on reefs, harmless to humans
  • Whale shark (Rhincodon typus) — occasionally found in Palawan waters, harmless to humans
  • A total of 67 species of cartilaginous fishes recorded in Palawan waters
Attractions

Puerto Princesa Underground River

UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the longest underground rivers in the world. Boat tours through caves with stalactites and stalagmites.

Underground River National Park

Park with mangrove forests, limestone cliffs and rich wildlife.

Honda Bay

Archipelago with islands for snorkeling, beach holidays and kayaking.

Sabang Beach

Golden sand beach with restaurants, starting point for underground river tours.

Baker's Hill

Viewpoint with panoramic views of the city and bay.

Puerto Princesa Market

Lively market with seafood and local produce.

Best areas

Puerto Princesa Centre

Main area with markets, shops and restaurants.

Sabang

Coastal area with beach and hotels, starting point for tours.

Honda Bay

Area with islands and beaches.

Must-try food

Grilled Fish

Fish caught by local fishermen, grilled.

Adobo

Stewed pork or chicken in soy sauce, vinegar and garlic.

Sinigang

Sour soup with meat or seafood and vegetables.

Grilled Prawns

Fresh prawns with garlic and lemon.

Halo-halo

Dessert of shaved ice, condensed milk, fruits and ice cream.

Where to go next

Underground River

UNESCO site with boat tours, ~80 km.

Honda Bay

Archipelago with beaches and snorkeling, ~15 km.

El Nido

Scenic archipelago with lagoons and limestone cliffs, ~5 hours by car.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
moderate
Getting there
Nearest airports
Международный аэропорт Пуэрто-Принсеса (PPS).
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Visa
Visa requirements
visa-free for Russian citizens and most countries (up to 30 days)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
December-May (dry season)
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 840 PHP
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 2 240 PHP
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$70.00
≈ 5 874 ₽ · ≈ 3 920 PHP
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$120.00
≈ 10 070 ₽ · ≈ 6 720 PHP
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$100.00
≈ 8 392 ₽ · ≈ 5 600 PHP
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 3 360 PHP
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 280 PHP
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 840 PHP
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$2.50
≈ 210 ₽ · ≈ 140 PHP
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽ · ≈ 112 PHP
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$0.80
≈ 67 ₽ · ≈ 45 PHP
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 448 PHP
Burger
Average price for a burger
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 280 PHP
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$3.50
≈ 294 ₽ · ≈ 196 PHP
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 280 PHP
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 560 PHP
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$0.50
≈ 42 ₽ · ≈ 28 PHP
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 168 PHP
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽ · ≈ 1 960 PHP
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 448 PHP
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 672 PHP
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 1 680 PHP
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 3 360 PHP
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 1 680 PHP
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 560 PHP
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 560 PHP
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Frequently asked questions
Puerto Princesa: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is December-May (dry season). At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Puerto Princesa: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +33.0°C, during the day — up to +32.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Puerto Princesa: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +24.0°C, during the day — up to +30.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Puerto Princesa: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +30.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Puerto Princesa: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on June-October. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Puerto Princesa: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "golden sand" surface, golden sand, good water. The most popular beaches: Sabang Beach, Nagtabon Beach. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Puerto Princesa: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry.
Puerto Princesa: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: sea urchins, corals, jellyfish. Main dangers are sea urchins, corals and jellyfish. No lifeguards on beaches.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Puerto Princesa: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $62.00 (≈ 5 203 ₽ · ≈ 3 472 PHP) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Puerto Princesa: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $15.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $40.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $70.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $120.00 per night, an apartment — $60.00 per night, a villa — $100.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Puerto Princesa: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $5.00, dinner at a restaurant — $15.00, a cup of cappuccino — $2.50, a 0.5L beer — $2.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.80. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Puerto Princesa: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $10.00, a single public transport ticket — $0.50, a short taxi ride — $3.00, car rental — $35.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Puerto Princesa: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Puerto Princesa Underground River — UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the longest underground rivers in the world. Boat tours through caves with stalactites and stalagmites.; Underground River National Park — Park with mangrove forests, limestone cliffs and rich wildlife.; Honda Bay — Archipelago with islands for snorkeling, beach holidays and kayaking.; Sabang Beach — Golden sand beach with restaurants, starting point for underground river tours.; Baker's Hill — Viewpoint with panoramic views of the city and bay.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Puerto Princesa: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Grilled Fish — Fish caught by local fishermen, grilled.; Adobo — Stewed pork or chicken in soy sauce, vinegar and garlic.; Sinigang — Sour soup with meat or seafood and vegetables.; Grilled Prawns — Fresh prawns with garlic and lemon.; Halo-halo — Dessert of shaved ice, condensed milk, fruits and ice cream.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Puerto Princesa: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Puerto Princesa Centre — Main area with markets, shops and restaurants.; Sabang — Coastal area with beach and hotels, starting point for tours.; Honda Bay — Area with islands and beaches.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Puerto Princesa: is a visa required?
Visa: visa-free for Russian citizens and most countries (up to 30 days). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Puerto Princesa: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Международный аэропорт Пуэрто-Принсеса (code PPS). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $10.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Puerto Princesa: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — PHP. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $62.00 (≈ 5 203 ₽ · ≈ 3 472 PHP). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Puerto Princesa: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Puerto Princesa: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as moderate. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Puerto Princesa: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Underground River — UNESCO site with boat tours, ~80 km.; Honda Bay — Archipelago with beaches and snorkeling, ~15 km.; El Nido — Scenic archipelago with lagoons and limestone cliffs, ~5 hours by car.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

6.7/10
Overall rank: 1024 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 708

Best season

December-May (dry season)

Useful information

Currency: PHP
Coordinates: 9.750000, 118.750000