After the whirlwind of adrenaline and breathtaking cliffs in El Nido, our family was looking for a change of pace. We wanted somewhere where we could breathe, soak in the tropical sun, and simply enjoy being together without a packed itinerary. That search led us straight to Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan.
While many travelers treat Puerto Princesa as a mere pitstop on the way to the Underground River or El Nido, we discovered a side of it that felt like a true sanctuary. From the hilltop views of our resort to the crystal-clear waters of Honda Bay, our time here was a highlight of our Philippine adventure. If you’re planning a family trip to Palawan, here is how we spent our days finding paradise in Puerto Princesa.
Finding Our Sanctuary: Staying at Panja Resort
When we first arrived at Panja Resort, we knew we had made the right choice for our “slow down” days. Tucked away in the lush hills, the resort sits high enough to offer panoramic views of the surrounding green landscape and the distant shimmer of the bay.
The vibe here is immediately calming. For a family traveling with teenagers, space and a good pool are non-negotiable, and Panja delivered on both. We spent our first few hours just breathing in the fresh air and marveling at the infinity pool that seemed to drop off right into the jungle.
Our Experience: We spent our mornings lingering over breakfast and our afternoons soaking up the sun by the pool. There’s something special about a hilltop retreat; you feel completely removed from the hustle and bustle of the city, yet you’re only a short drive away from the action. The sunsets from the resort were particularly magical—the sky turning shades of violet and gold over the mountains is a memory we’ll hold onto for a long time.
Travel Tip: If you’re looking for a place to truly “retreat,” Panja Resort is it. It’s modern and clean, but it retains a peaceful, rustic charm that makes you feel like you’ve found a hidden gem.
Setting Sail: Honda Bay Island Hopping
As much as we loved the pool, we couldn’t visit Puerto Princesa without exploring the famous Honda Bay. We’ve done a lot of boat tours, but there’s a certain ease to Honda Bay that makes it perfect for a family day out. We chartered a boat and set off to explore the tiny specks of white sand scattered across the turquoise water.
The experience of being out on the water, with the wind in our hair and the salt on our skin, always brings our family closer. There’s no Wi-Fi out there—just us, our guides, and the ocean.
First Stop: The Underwater Magic of Starfish Island
Our first island of the day was Starfish Island, and the name is no exaggeration. This place felt like a scene straight out of a tropical postcard. The water is incredibly clear and shallow for quite a distance, making it a dream spot for snorkeling.
Our teenagers were in the water before the boat was even fully anchored. We spent a good hour hovering over the sandy bottom, watching the vibrant marine life go by. The variety of fish was astounding, but of course, the stars of the show were the starfish. Seeing them in their natural habitat, undisturbed and brilliant in color, was a great educational moment for the kids and a serene experience for us.
The “Photo Ops”: Beyond the water, the island has a quirky side! We found several miniature sculptures dotted around the sand that were clearly designed for fun photos. We spent a good fifteen minutes laughing and posing for shots—it’s these little moments of silliness that really make a family vacation.
Luli Island: The Island That Disappears
Next up was perhaps the most unique spot of the day: Luli Island. The name is a shortened version of the Filipino phrase “Lulubog – Lilitaw,” which translates to “Sink and Rise.”
Because it’s essentially a massive sandbar, parts of the island disappear when the tide comes in and reappear as the tide goes out. This ever-changing landscape makes it feel like you’re visiting a place that might not be there tomorrow.
Fun for the Kids (and the Young at Heart): The highlight for our teens at Luli Island was definitely the diving board. There’s a wooden platform built over the deeper water where they spent ages practicing their jumps and making a splash. It’s simple, old-school fun, and it kept them entertained while we took a much-needed break.
Our Favorite Moment: While the kids were busy jumping, we found a hammock suspended right over the water. There is nothing quite like the feeling of swinging gently over the ripples of the ocean with a cold drink in hand. It was the epitome of relaxation.
A Seafood Feast on Cowrie Island
By the time we reached Cowrie Island, we were all starving. Cowrie is the largest island in the Honda Bay circuit and is the perfect place to stop for a long, lazy lunch.
We gathered under the shade of the palm trees to enjoy a massive spread of grilled seafood and local Filipino delicacies. There’s something about eating fresh fish and rice with your feet in the sand that makes everything taste better. The atmosphere on Cowrie is lively but spacious enough that you can still find your own corner to relax.
Exploring Cowrie: After lunch, we took a stroll around the island. It has a beautiful wide beach and plenty of spots to swim. If you’re a family that likes activities, you can find massages, volleyball, and even small shops here. We opted for a slow walk along the shoreline, collecting shells (and memories) before it was time to head back to the mainland.
Why Puerto Princesa Won Our Hearts
Heading back to Panja Resort at the end of our island-hopping day, we felt that deep sense of contentment that only comes from a day well spent. Puerto Princesa gave us exactly what we needed: a blend of adventure and peace.
We often talk about the “big” sights when we travel, like the Underground River, but it’s the quiet moments that often stick with us the most. It was the sound of the kids laughing as they jumped off the pier at Luli Island, the taste of the fresh grilled squid on Cowrie, and the way the sun felt on our faces as we sailed back to the dock.
If you’re looking for a destination that balances the needs of energetic teens with the parental desire for relaxation, Puerto Princesa and the surrounding Honda Bay islands are a perfect choice. It’s a place where you can be as active or as lazy as you want, all while surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in the Philippines.
Practical Tips for Your Puerto Princesa Family Trip
- Sun Protection is Key: The sun in Palawan is intense, especially when you’re out on the water. We recommend reef-safe sunscreen to protect both your skin and the beautiful coral reefs.
- Book Your Boat Early: Honda Bay is popular. To get the most out of your day and beat the biggest crowds, try to head out to the wharf early in the morning.
- Bring Water Shoes: Especially at Starfish Island, there can be rocky patches or sea urchins. A simple pair of water shoes will save your feet!
- Stay in the Hills: If you want a break from the humidity and noise of the town center, look for resorts like Panja that are located at a higher elevation. The breeze alone is worth it!
Puerto Princesa was a beautiful chapter in our family’s travel story. It reminded us that the world is full of wonders waiting to be discovered—you just have to go out and find them.
