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Where to Stay in Puerto Princesa, Palawan: Top 3 Areas and Accommodation Tips

Choosing where to stay in Puerto Princesa can make all the difference in your experience of this gateway city to Palawan. While many travelers just pass through on their way to El Nido or Coron, Puerto Princesa has attractions worth visiting like the Underground River and Honda Bay islands.

We visited Puerto Princesa in late 2024 during our second round-the-world trip and stayed at Greenspace Palawan. Here we share the best accommodation options for different budgets.

Best Areas to Stay in Puerto Princesa

  • Puerto Princesa City Center – Best for those wanting to be near restaurants, markets and the airport
  • Honda Bay – Ideal for exploring nearby islands and boat tours
  • Sabang – Perfect for staying near the Underground River, one of the New7Wonders of Nature
Underground River entrance - where to stay in Puerto Princesa
Beach access to underground river - where to stay in Puerto Princesa

Where to Stay in Puerto Princesa City Center

Why stay here?

Staying downtown provides easy access to restaurants, transportation and attractions like Immaculate Conception Cathedral and Baywalk. It’s one of the best areas where to stay in Puerto Princesa.

Best Hotels in Puerto Princesa City Center

Greenspace Palawan

Greenspace Palawan

Budget
Nober Pension House City Center

Nober Pension House City Center

Mid-range
Best Western Plus The Ivywall Hotel

Best Western Plus The Ivywall Hotel

Luxury
  • Budget: Greenspace Palawan – Where we stayed! A comfortable hotel just 5 minutes walk from downtown, with modern rooms, AC, free WiFi and breakfast included. The staff is extremely helpful organizing local tours.
  • Mid-range: Nober Pension House City Center – Located in the heart of the city, offers spacious rooms with balcony, outdoor pool and on-site restaurant. Ideal for families with triple and family room options. Just 10 minutes from the airport.
  • Luxury: Best Western Plus The Ivywall Hotel – The most sophisticated option in town, with full spa, 24h gym, infinity pool with panoramic views and suites with jacuzzi. The restaurant serves high-quality Filipino and international cuisine. Free airport transfer.

Where to Stay in Honda Bay

Why stay here?

The best area to stay in Puerto Princesa for exploring the paradise islands of Honda Bay and enjoying a more peaceful environment.

Best Hotels in Honda Bay

Why stay here?

The best area where to stay in Puerto Princesa for those who want to explore the paradise islands of Honda Bay and enjoy a more peaceful environment.

Best Hotels in Honda Bay

Balay Tuko Garden Inn

Balay Tuko Garden Inn

Budget
Michelle Pension

Michelle Pension

Mid-range
Go Boutique Inn

Go Boutique Inn

Luxury
  • Budget: Balay Tuko Garden Inn – A cozy inn with a tropical garden, located just 1km from the center. Offers basic but clean rooms with fan or air conditioning (optional). Great value for money, with a common area for socializing and shared kitchen available.
  • Mid-range: Michelle Pension – Family-run hotel with spacious rooms, some with small kitchenettes. Prime location near the local market and bus terminal. Includes homemade Filipino breakfast and laundry service. Staff speaks fluent English.
  • Luxury: Go Boutique Inn – Modern and elegant design, with rooftop pool and panoramic bar. Rooms with quality amenities, flat-screen TV and premium toiletries. Offers concierge service to organize tours and in-room massages. Breakfast buffet included.

Where to Stay in Sabang

Why stay here?

The best option for staying in Puerto Princesa for those who want to visit the famous Underground River early in the morning and enjoy more secluded beaches.

Best Hotels in Sabang

Cafe Sabang Guest House

Cafe Sabang Guest House

Budget
Hill Myna Beach Cottages

Hill Myna Beach Cottages

Mid-range
Four Points by Sheraton Palawan Puerto Princesa

Four Points by Sheraton Palawan Puerto Princesa

Luxury
  • Budget: Cafe Sabang Guest House – Located just 200m from the Underground River entrance, this rustic guesthouse offers basic rooms with fan and shared bathroom. Includes a cozy café serving traditional Filipino breakfasts. Perfect for backpackers looking for simplicity and prime location.
  • Mid-range: Hill Myna Beach Cottages – Picturesque beachfront bungalows with private veranda and hammocks. Offers air conditioning, hot water and free Wi-Fi. The on-site restaurant serves fresh seafood. Peaceful atmosphere, ideal for couples.
  • Luxury: Four Points by Sheraton Palawan Puerto Princesa – The only 4-star international hotel in the area, with full spa, three pools and direct beach access. Spacious rooms with ocean views, 24-hour room service and free airport transfer. Excellent restaurant with international buffet.
Underground River Entrance - Where to stay in Puerto Princesa
Beach access to underground river - Where to stay in Puerto Princesa

Extra Tips for Your Stay in Puerto Princesa

  • Transportation: Use tricycles to get around the city or rent a scooter for more freedom.
  • Must-do tours: Go island hopping in Honda Bay and visit the Underground River.
  • Best time to visit: From November to May, when the weather is drier and ideal for exploring the islands.

Regardless of your choice, book in advance to get the best prices and make the most of your stay in Puerto Princesa!

You might be interested in these posts

Where to Stay in Manila: Best Areas and Accommodation Tips
Where to Stay in Panglao, Bohol: Best Areas and Accommodation Tips
Where to Stay in Coron, Palawan: Best Areas and Accommodation Tips
Where to Stay in Koh Rong Sanloem: Best Beaches and Accommodations

Safety and Accessibility Tips in Puerto Princesa

Is it safe to travel to the Philippines?

Generally, yes. The Philippines is one of Southeast Asia’s most visited countries, and most tourist areas are considered safe. According to the U.S. Department of State, while certain areas in the south like parts of Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago are under travel advisories, popular destinations such as Palawan, Cebu, and Bohol are safe and welcoming. Petty crime can occur in busy areas, so it’s best to stay alert and follow local advice.

How accessible is transportation in the Philippines?

Transportation in the Philippines can be hectic, especially in Manila, where traffic is notorious. The city has limited metro lines and relies heavily on buses and jeepneys. For travelers with mobility issues, accessibility remains a challenge outside modern urban centers. However, according to the Philippine Representative Office in Taiwan (MECO), many international airports and modern hotels are equipped with ramps and elevators, and some tour operators cater specifically to accessible travel needs.

What should I know about local etiquette and culture?

Filipinos are warm, welcoming, and deeply respectful. According to the Guide to the Philippines, politeness is a key part of the culture. Words like “po” and “opo” are used to show respect, especially toward elders. When visiting churches or local communities, modest attire and quiet behavior are appreciated. The country has strong Catholic traditions, so observing proper conduct in religious spaces is expected.

Are the Philippines LGBTQIA+ friendly?

Yes, the Philippines is one of the most LGBTQIA+-friendly countries in Asia. Although same-sex marriage is not yet legal, queer visibility is strong, especially in cities like Manila, Cebu, and Davao. The annual Manila Pride draws thousands of participants. According to ILGA World, while there are no national anti-discrimination laws, several local governments have protective ordinances. Overall, LGBTQIA+ travelers are welcomed and safe in most parts of the country.

Planning to travel to Puerto Princesa?

Get your travel insurance with Heymondo (5% discount) Find the best hotels in Puerto Princesa on Booking Stay connected with a Holafly eSIM (5% discount) Book experiences and tours in Puerto Princesa on GetYourGuide Find the best transport options to Puerto Princesa with 12GO Discover outdoor adventures in Puerto Princesa on Manawa Rent a car at the best price with Discovercars Find the cheapest flights with Skyscanner

Check out our travel resources for more tips for your next trip.

Activities in Puerto Princesa

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About Us

André and João in Salento, Colombia

André and João standing together in Salento, Colombia

We're André and João, a Portuguese couple passionate about exploring the world side by side for over 18 years. We've visited more than 70 countries and completed two self-planned round-the-world trips—always with a spirit of adventure, curiosity, and attention to detail. On this blog, we share what we've learned on the road: practical tips, tested itineraries, and real experiences to help you plan more authentic and fulfilling travels. We believe there's no single "right" way to travel—only what makes sense for you.

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