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.

When we finally touched down, we realized the photos don’t even do it justice. There is a specific kind of magic in the air here—a mix of salty ocean breeze, towering limestone cliffs, and the kind of peace you can only find when you’re miles away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. We spent our days island hopping, kayaking through emerald waters, and bonding over fresh seafood on white sandy shores.

If you’re planning a family trip to the Philippines, or just dreaming of your next tropical getaway, grab a mango shake and join us as we look back on our incredible adventure in El Nido.

Getting There: The Journey to Paradise

Our journey began with a flight from Manila to Palawan via Cebu Pacific. There’s always that buzz of excitement when you’re at the airport with the family, bags packed and spirits high. We landed in Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan, which serves as a common gateway for many travelers heading north to El Nido.

Upon arrival, we had a private car waiting for us. While there are shared vans available, we highly recommend booking a private car for a family trip. It gives you the flexibility to stop when you need to, stretch your legs, and just enjoy the scenery at your own pace. The drive from Puerto Princesa to El Nido is about 5 to 6 hours, but the views of the lush countryside are beautiful.

Family Tip: About halfway through the drive, we made a stop for lunch. It was the perfect moment to share a meal, have some laughs, and recharge before the final leg of the journey. Don’t rush the drive—treat it as part of the adventure!

Finding Our Home Away From Home: El Nido Garden Resort

When we finally rolled into El Nido, we checked into the El Nido Garden Resort, and honestly, we couldn’t have picked a better spot. We stayed in cottage-style rooms that felt cozy and authentic, perfectly suited for our group.

One of our favorite things about the resort was the layout. Our room faced the swimming pool, which then overlooked the vast, blue ocean. There’s something so soothing about waking up, stepping out onto your porch, and seeing the water sparkling in the sun. It truly felt like our own private paradise. After the long travel day, we spent some time just soaking in the views and getting ready for the island adventures ahead.

Island Hopping: Discovering Hidden Gems

The highlight of any trip to El Nido is, without a doubt, the island hopping. There are several different tours available (usually labeled Tour A, B, C, and D), each taking you to different lagoons and beaches. We set off early the next morning, fueled by excitement and a lot of sunscreen!

Our Private Oasis at Pasandigan Beach

Our first stop was Pasandigan Beach, and we couldn’t believe our luck—we had the entire island to ourselves! It was just our family and the boat crew. The water was crystal clear, and the sand was like powdered sugar. We spent the morning swimming and snorkeling, exploring the vibrant underwater world. Having a beach all to yourself is a rare luxury, and it made us feel like we were in a movie.

Finding Peace at Ugan Cove

Next, we headed to Ugan Cove. This spot is a haven for sightseeing and photography. To truly experience the cove, we rented kayaks. Paddling through the calm, turquoise waters allowed us to see the intricate details of the limestone formations up close. We all agreed that Ugan Cove was one of the most tranquil places we’ve ever visited. It’s a great spot for the kids to kayak too, as the water is very still and manageable.

A Feast on the Sand: Lunch at Shimo Island

By midday, we had worked up quite an appetite. Our boat crew took us to Shimo Island for a traditional Filipino barbecue lunch right on the beach.

The spread was incredible! We feasted on:

• Freshly grilled shrimp and fish
• Succulent barbecue pork and chicken
• Plenty of steamed rice
• A refreshing fruit platter with yellow watermelon, pineapple, and bananas

There is nothing quite like eating with your hands (boodle fight style!) while sitting on the sand, surrounded by the ocean. The yellow watermelon was a huge hit with the kids—sweet, juicy, and the perfect cool-down treat.

Gliding Through the Iconic Big Lagoon

After lunch, we made our way to the Big Lagoon, perhaps the most iconic and photographed spot in all of El Nido. As you approach, you’re greeted by towering limestone cliffs that create a narrow entrance into a vast, emerald-green lagoon.

We rented kayaks again here, which is the best way to explore. Gliding through the water, looking up at the massive cliffs, felt like we were entering another world. We even took the time to do a “360-degree” view from the kayaks just to soak it all in. At one point, we found a spot where the water was surprisingly cold and refreshing—a natural “leach” of cool water amidst the tropical heat. It was an experience none of us will ever forget.

Winding Down at Papaya Island

Our final stop of the day was Papaya Island. You might wonder why it’s called Papaya Island when it’s covered in coconut trees! Regardless of the name, the white sand is fine and soft, and the water is shallow and warm.

After a full day of paddling and exploring, this was the perfect place to simply unwind. We spent our time relaxing on the shore, taking slow swims, and reflecting on everything we had seen. It was the “quiet” end to an unforgettable day of family bonding.

As the sun began to dip, our boat dropped us off at a dock close to our hotel. We walked back with salty skin and big smiles, already talking about our favorite parts of the day.

A Perfect Final Morning at Lio Beach

On our last day in El Nido, we decided to take it easy. We headed over to Lio Beach for a relaxing morning. If you’re traveling with family, Lio Beach is a must-visit. The water is incredibly clear and calm—it actually feels like swimming in a giant, natural swimming pool.

We spent the hours between 9:00 AM and noon just floating in the water and enjoying the sunshine before we had to start the journey back to Puerto Princesa. It was the perfect “final soak” to wrap up our trip.

Final Thoughts: Why El Nido is a Family Must-Visit

Our time in El Nido was nothing short of extraordinary. From the thrill of discovering hidden coves to the simple joy of sharing a meal on a remote island, every moment felt like a treasure.

If you are looking for a destination that combines adventure with relaxation, and stunning natural beauty with warm hospitality, El Nido should be at the top of your list. We left with our hearts full and a promise to ourselves that we would keep exploring this beautiful world together.

Thanks for following along on our adventure! Until next time, keep exploring and making memories with the ones you love.