Puerto Princesa is more than just a gateway to stunning natural wonders; it’s also a city that offers memorable dining experiences that blend local flavors with enchanting settings. What sets Puerto Princesa apart is its ability to combine spectacular nature encounters, like watching fireflies, with hearty, authentic Filipino cuisine. Among the options on our list, we’re particularly fond of the firefly cruises, especially the Puerto Princesa: Firefly Watching Bay Cruise with Dinner—a peaceful evening on the water that offers both a delicious local-style dinner and a natural light show. It’s a perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring.
While firefly tours shine for their romantic ambiance and natural spectacle, Puerto Princesa also has excellent options for seafood lovers, cultural evenings, and even park-side dinners. Each experience has its own charm, whether you want a luxurious night at Kalui or an immersive mangrove forest adventure. The variety ensures you’ll find a perfect fit, whether your budget is modest or you’re looking to indulge.
1. Puerto Princesa: Firefly Watching Bay Cruise with Dinner
At number 1 on our list, this firefly watching bay cruise with dinner offers an elegant yet relaxed way to enjoy Palawan’s natural beauty. For around $35 per person, you’ll sail out from Puerto Princesa Bay at dusk, witnessing a spectacular sunset while enjoying a local-style dinner on the boat. The real magic begins after sunset when the river estuary lights up with thousands of glittering fireflies—a phenomenon that feels almost surreal. You’ll also spot bioluminescent plankton, adding to the nighttime spectacle.
What makes this tour stand out is its hassle-free experience with included hotel pickup and drop-off, making it perfect for travelers who want to relax and soak in nature without any logistical worries. The reviews are solid, with many praising the beautiful sunset and the twinkling fireflies. It’s especially ideal for couples or anyone seeking a peaceful, romantic evening immersed in nature. The combination of scenic views, local food, and natural light show makes this a top choice.
Bottom line: This cruise offers a beautiful blend of scenery, wildlife, and comfort, making it one of the most popular ways to experience Puerto Princesa’s nighttime magic.
2. Puerto Princesa: Firefly Watching Paddle Boat Tour & Dinner
Starting with a dinner at Swag Restaurant, this tour kicks off the evening with a delicious meal before you hop onto a paddle boat on the Nagsaguipi River. For around $28 per person, you get to see thousands of fireflies flickering along the riverbanks—a true biological spectacle. What makes this tour distinct is the combination of a hearty dinner and a more intimate, quiet cruise on a paddle boat, which allows for a closer, more personal encounter with the fireflies.
The reviews are glowing, with one guest describing the experience as “amazing fireflies in a lovely atmosphere,” and complimenting the wide selection of food. This tour balances the culinary and natural aspects, making it suitable for those who want a more interactive and less commercial experience. The moderate price and small group sizes add to its appeal.
Bottom line: If you prefer a more personal and relaxed firefly experience combined with good food, this paddle boat tour hits the mark.
3. Puerto Princesa: Jungle Firefly Watching Boat Tour & Dinner
At number 3, this jungle firefly watching tour offers an encounter with fireflies in a more natural, off-the-beaten-path setting. For roughly $34, you’ll enjoy a local-style dinner at an off-site restaurant, then venture into the lush, mangrove-filled environment to see fireflies glowing amidst the trees. What sets this apart is the up-close experience with fireflies in a jungle environment, providing a different perspective than the river cruises.
The tour emphasizes ecosystem education about the mangrove habitat and fireflies’ role in the environment. Guests appreciate the warm, informative guides—with reviews highlighting guides like Kyle and Wen, who go out of their way to make everyone comfortable. The private and group options mean you can tailor your experience according to your preference for intimacy or social interaction.
Bottom line: Great for nature lovers and those wanting to see fireflies in a lush, jungle environment—a memorable, educational adventure.
4. Puerto Princesa: Firefly Watching Tour with Dinner
This tour offers a more straightforward firefly experience with an included buffet dinner and drinks. For $55 per person, you’ll be taken on an evening guided tour to see glowing fireflies, with the added convenience of a dinner buffet. While the reviews are fewer, the experience promises a magical display of hundreds of fireflies and the chance to connect with nature in a romantic setting.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a simple, all-in-one experience—combining firefly viewing and dining without many frills. The price point is higher than some other options, but the inclusion of dinner and drinks adds value for those seeking comfort and convenience.
Bottom line: Good for those who want a full evening of fireflies and dining in one package, especially if you value ease of planning.
$55 per person
5. Firefly Watching with Dinner
Offering unlimited dinner alongside firefly viewing, this experience focuses on connecting with nature in a tranquil setting. While detailed reviews and pricing are less specific, this tour emphasizes Mangrove tours, plankton watching, and the glow of fireflies—ideal for anyone wanting a rich natural experience.
This option might appeal more to travelers who prioritize nature immersion over luxury or structured schedules. Be sure to check availability and specifics when booking, as the focus is on an authentic, relaxed encounter.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a calm, immersive nature experience with plenty of time to enjoy the surroundings.
$40 per person
6. Puerto Princesa: Balayong People’s Park with Dinner and Show
For a more cultural evening, this experience combines a dinner at a classy restaurant with a visit to Balayong People’s Park. Priced at $122 per group (up to two people), it includes a water and light show and a leisurely walk through the park’s grounds. The tour is ideal for those who want a relaxing, elegant night out that mixes dining, entertainment, and a touch of local culture.
Guests appreciate the convenience of hotel transfers and the chance to enjoy local light and water displays in a comfortable setting. If you’re looking for a combination of good food and a scenic, entertaining evening, this one fits the bill.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking a sophisticated, cultural night with dinner and entertainment.
$122 per group up to 2
7. Puerto Princesa: Seafood Lunch or Dinner with Transfers
This tour offers a native Filipino dining experience in a decorative house filled with art and edible plants. For $62, you can choose between lunch or dinner, featuring fresh seafood served in a cozy, authentic setting. The included transfers make this a convenient choice for those who want to enjoy local flavors without hassle.
Guests love the quality of the seafood and the atmosphere that captures the essence of Filipino hospitality. It’s an excellent choice for foodies wanting an authentic meal and a break from typical tourist spots.
Bottom line: Ideal for those craving a genuine Filipino seafood meal with easy logistics.
$62 per group up to 2
8. Underground River and Firefly Watching with Dinner
At number 8, this combination tour includes Underground River exploration, firefly watching, lunch, and dinner. For $91, it’s perfect for travelers who want a full day of adventure, combining Palawan’s top natural sights. The tour includes lunch and dinner, adding excellent value for a comprehensive day.
The multi-activity nature makes it suitable for adventurous travelers eager to see both spectacular caves and glowing fireflies. Booking early is recommended, and the reviews highlight the smooth logistics and diverse experiences.
Bottom line: Best for active travelers looking to combine nature, adventure, and good food in one day.
$40 per person
9. Underground River with Dinner at Kalui
The highlight of this experience is visiting the famous Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for about $84. You get a boat tour through 8.2 km of one of the world’s longest navigable underground rivers, followed by dinner at the renowned Kalui restaurant. The dinner options at Kalui are highly praised for their authentic Filipino dishes and welcoming atmosphere.
This tour appeals to nature lovers and foodies alike, offering a full day of sightseeing and dining. The combination of spectacular geology and delicious cuisine makes it a memorable choice, especially if you want a mix of adventure and comfort.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a world-class underground river experience combined with a nice meal.
$84 per person
How to Choose the Best Dining Experience in Puerto Princesa
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, interests, and how much adventure or relaxation you want. For instance, if you’re after a romantic, nature-based evening, the Firefly Watching Bay Cruise is hard to beat. For those craving authentic Filipino seafood in a cozy setting, the Seafood Lunch or Dinner offers excellent value.
If you’re interested in combining cultural entertainment and scenic parks, the Balayong People’s Park is a good pick. For the adventurous, the Underground River and Firefly Tour provides a full day of natural wonders.
Booking early is wise, especially for tours with limited availability or popular times of year. Think about your favorite way to experience local culture and nature, then match it with the tour that best fits your style and budget.
Final Thoughts
Puerto Princesa offers a diverse array of dining experiences rooted in its natural environment and local flavors. Whether you want a romantic firefly cruise, a feast of fresh seafood, or a cultural evening at a scenic park, you’ll find options to suit your taste. The top picks like the firefly bay cruise and the Underground River with Kalui dinner combine natural beauty with hearty meals, making them standouts.
For a well-rounded experience, look at combining tours or booking a package that includes multiple activities. Whatever your style, booking early will ensure you secure your spot in Puerto Princesa’s unforgettable dining adventures.