Meet your pre-arranged transfer at Puerto Princesa International Airport and head to your hotel to drop luggage and freshen up. The transfer is short (20–40 minutes depending on hotel) and helps you start relaxed.
Casual local favorite known for grilled seafood, Filipino dishes, and lively atmosphere — good introduction to Palawan flavors; open daily (typically 10:00am–11:00pm).
A short cultural and historical loop showing the Spanish-era Plaza Cuartel, the neo-gothic cathedral, and the scenic Puerto Princesa Baywalk at sunset; great to orient yourself with the city. City tours typically run in the afternoon and last 2–3 hours.
A popular quick stop for local pastries, themed gardens, and sunset photo ops; many stalls open into the early evening — check current closing time before you go.
One of Puerto Princesa’s best-known restaurants for fresh seafood and Filipino dishes in a charming, art-filled setting; reservations recommended and typical dinner service starts around 5:00pm and ends ~10:00pm.
Most operators pick up guests from hotels 7:00–8:00am; Honda Bay tours visit Starfish Island, Luli/Cowrie Island and sometimes Pandan Island for snorkeling and beach time. Tours generally run 4–6 hours and are best done in the morning for calmer water.
Snorkel vibrant shallow reefs and relax on powdery sand beaches; operators typically include mask/fins and a basic island lunch if booked as a package. Tours usually operate 8:00am–3:00pm; check tide/weather before going.
Enjoy fresh grilled fish or a pre-arranged picnic on one of the islands — many packages include a simple lunch, or you can request a cooked-family style seafood lunch on the sand.
Dine on lauded seafood and enjoy views from floating cottages built on stilts over the mangroves — a memorable waterfront dining experience; typically open until late evening but double-check seasonal hours.
Head back to the city center for local bands, bars, or the small night market for souvenirs and snacks; timings vary but activity continues into the evening.
Most trips leave early (5:00–6:30am) to secure park entry slots and avoid crowds; the drive to Sabang is ~1.5–2 hours depending on stops. Book your permit and boat slot in advance — permits sometimes sell out days ahead.
From Sabang, take a short banca ride (15–20 minutes) to the National Park visitor center and then board the guided cave boat tour that showcases huge chambers and stalactite formations. Cave tours are guided and typically run at scheduled time windows through the day; check your exact time on booking.
After the cave, explore the nearby mangrove sanctuary by paddleboat or walk Sabang Beach for photos and a relaxed vibe; local operators provide short mangrove tours and wildlife viewing.
Choose a beachfront eatery in Sabang for freshly prepared seafood and Filipino dishes, convenient and filling after the morning’s activity; many restaurants operate 10:00am–5:00pm.
Drive back to Puerto Princesa, arriving mid to late afternoon depending on traffic and any stops; this is a good time to nap or enjoy rural Palawan scenery.
Relax with a comfortable dinner in town with a mix of Filipino and international choices; most restaurants open through the evening, but check each venue’s hours.
Depart early (5:30–7:00am) for the 4.5–6 hour road transfer north to El Nido; early departure gives you the afternoon to explore El Nido town or join an island tour. Book a reputable van company or private transfer; public buses take longer.
Drop your bags at your El Nido hotel or guesthouse; take a short break or rent a scooter for local exploring. Check-in times typically start around 2:00pm but many places will hold luggage earlier.
Popular café serving salads, grilled dishes and good coffee — great for a relaxed midday meal and to plan island trips; open from breakfast through dinner (usually 7:30am–10:00pm).
Head to Las Cabanas for a swim, sunbathe or zipline and enjoy one of El Nido’s nicest sunset beaches; beach facilities are open during daylight hours and the sunset is a highlight.
Altrove for well-known wood-fired pizzas, or Mezzanine for elevated beachfront dining — both are popular choices with dinner service starting in the early evening; reservations recommended at Altrove.
Book your preferred El Nido island-hopping tour (A: Big Lagoon + Small Lagoon; C: Hidden Beach & Helicopter Island are popular) for the next day; tours usually run 9:00am–4:00pm and often require morning pickup.