Palawan isn’t just about stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters; it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy memorable lunch experiences that combine cuisine with breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re craving a private boat ride around El Nido or an authentic seafood feast in Puerto Princesa, Palawan offers options that suit a variety of tastes and budgets. One of our favorites is the El Nido Private Tour A w/ Lunch, which not only lets you avoid crowds but also provides a curated day of island-hopping with plenty of delicious food and personal attention. The balance of adventure, privacy, and culinary delights makes it a top pick.
Palawan is a place where the natural environment enhances every meal. Imagine enjoying fresh seafood while overlooking a tranquil lagoon or sampling local dishes after exploring an underground river. These experiences are designed to make your time in Palawan truly special, blending local flavors with unforgettable scenery.
Quick Overview
This list showcases a variety of lunch experiences in Palawan, from private boat tours around El Nido to full-day island hopping and underground river excursions. Each offers something unique: private guides, off-the-beaten-path stops, or authentic local cuisine. Whether you want a luxurious private tour, an affordable island hop, or an adventure-packed river trip, there’s a tailored option here for your preferences. Explore the full range:
– Private tours with customized itineraries: El Nido Private Tour A w/ Lunch
– Group island-hopping with delicious meals: El Nido Island Hopping Tour A with Lunch
– Unique underground river adventures: Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour with lunch
– Full-day explorations with eco-conscious focus: Port Barton Full Day Island Hopping
– City-based seafood indulgence: 2 hours Seafood lunch or dinner in Puerto Princesa
Now, let’s look at each experience in detail.
1. El Nido Private Tour A w/ Lunch
At number one on our list, the El Nido Private Tour A w/ Lunch offers a chance to explore Palawan’s most iconic spots without the crowd. This private island-hopping trip lasts about 7 to 8 hours and includes round-trip transfers, snorkel gear, and food. The big advantage here? You’re the only group on the boat, so you can customize your route and focus on what interests you most—be it kayaking at Big Lagoon or relaxing on a secluded beach. The guide’s attentive service and flexible itinerary mean you can skip the less interesting stops. The standout is the visit to Big Lagoon, with its magnificent limestone formations, and Shimizu Island, known for turtle sightings and great lunch spots. Reviews praise the private setup and personalized experience, making it ideal for couples or small groups wanting exclusivity.
Bottom line: If you prefer a tailored day with fewer people and a focus on your interests, this private tour is hard to beat, especially with its beautiful scenery and flexible schedule.
2. Private 4-kilometer Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour with lunch
Second, the Puerto Princesa Underground River takes you deep into one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. This tour is perfect for those interested in geology and natural history, as it ventures 4 kilometers further into the cave system than typical tours. You’ll start early, with hotel pickup, and then enjoy a 20-minute boat ride to the park. Inside, a paddle boat takes you through stunning limestone formations, stalactites, and stalagmites for about 3 hours. This tour’s highlight is the incredible underground river itself, surrounded by lush rainforest and wildlife. The included lunch is a convenient way to relax after the exploration, and reviews emphasize the quality of the experience and the knowledgeable guide.
Bottom line: Best suited for nature lovers and those wanting a deeper exploration of this UNESCO site, this tour offers great value with its extended cavern adventure.
3. El Nido Island Hopping Tour A with Lunch
For around $24, the El Nido Island Hopping Tour A with Lunch provides a budget-friendly way to see some of El Nido’s most famous spots. It covers five islands, each with a different vibe—be it lagoons, caves, or beaches. The tour includes visits to the Secret Lagoon, where you swim through a small opening into a hidden cove, and Shimizu Island, known for its snorkeling and lush greenery. The guided trip also offers lunch on the beach, with free snorkel equipment available. The reviews reflect a good value, with many travelers enjoying the variety of stops and the relaxed pace.
Bottom line: If you’re after an affordable, full-day outing with several iconic stops, this tour delivers a great taste of El Nido’s beauty at a wallet-friendly price.
4. El Nido Highlights Tour w/ Island Lunch
Next up, the El Nido Highlights Tour w/ Island Lunch offers a balanced 8-hour experience exploring Big Lagoon, Secret Beach, and Seven Commandos Beach. This tour is praised for its comprehensive coverage of El Nido’s top spots, with a special emphasis on scenic lagoons and pristine beaches. The included lunch on the boat keeps you energized, and the trip includes snorkeling opportunities and relaxing stops. Guests note the professionalism of the crew and the calm, scenic environment, ideal for families or travelers looking for a mid-range experience.
Bottom line: For those wanting a well-rounded day of sightseeing with a good meal included, this tour offers excellent value and memorable scenery.
5. Port Barton Island Private Highlights Tour with Lunch
Travelers seeking a quieter, more unspoiled experience should consider the Port Barton Island Private Highlights Tour. This private tour gives access to lesser-visited beaches and coral reefs, with a focus on snorkeling. It’s perfect if you prefer fewer crowds and more personalized service. The tour includes stops at Maxima Island and Paradise Island, both offering stunning scenery and fantastic snorkeling opportunities. The reviews appreciate the intimate vibe and the delicious lunch served during the trip.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting solitude and nature, this private tour offers a peaceful day exploring Port Barton’s natural beauty.
6. Port Barton Full Day Island Hopping with Buffet Lunch
For a full-day adventure with a focus on eco-tourism, the Port Barton Full Day Island Hopping is a solid choice. It includes visits to Maxima Island and Cagsalay Island, with plenty of snorkeling and beach time. The tour supports local turtle sanctuaries, making it eco-conscious and educational. The buffet lunch is a highlight, providing a variety of local dishes, and reviews mention the personalized care from guides and the pristine, quiet beaches.
Bottom line: This is perfect if you want a well-rounded day that balances nature, conservation, and good food, all at an affordable price point.
7. Shared Underground River Tour without lunch
The Shared Underground River Tour offers a cost-effective way to experience Puerto Princesa’s most famous attraction. This shared tour is ideal if you’re on a budget but still want to see the underground river. It includes a paddle boat ride inside the cave, lasting about 45 minutes. While it doesn’t include lunch, it’s a quick, straightforward option to tick this UNESCO site off your list. The reviews focus on the quality of the cave tour and the value for money.
Bottom line: Best for budget travelers or those with limited time, this tour delivers the main attraction at a competitive price.
8. El Nido Island Hopping Tour C with Lunch
Tour C, the El Nido Island Hopping Tour C, is a favorite for its swimming through Secret Lagoon and visiting Matinloc Island. It includes a lunch on the boat and offers a hassle-free experience with hotel transfers. The stops include Secret Lagoon, Hidden Beach, and Tapiutan Beach—all perfect for swimming and relaxing. The reviews note the breathtaking scenery and the helpful guides.
Bottom line: If you love secret spots and caves, this tour offers a mix of adventure and comfort, with a good value for the comprehensive stops.
9. El Nido Island Hopping Tour D with Lunch
Number nine, the Tour D, is geared toward travelers wanting to see less crowded beaches. It visits Small Lagoon, Cadlao Lagoon, and several quiet beaches like Pasandigan and Natnat. The tour lasts about 7 hours and includes lunch, making it a relaxed way to avoid the busiest spots. Reviewers mention the quiet, beautiful beaches and the opportunity to explore off-the-beaten-path spots.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers seeking peace and quiet, away from the crowds, with plenty of snorkeling and swimming.
$24.00 per person
10. Puerto Princesa: Honda Bay Tour with Lunch
The Honda Bay Tour is a classic, offering a half-day on Cowrie, Pambato Reef, and Luli Island. The lunch on the beach adds a delicious touch to the relaxing day. It’s well-suited for travelers with limited time wanting to enjoy snorkeling and beach time. Reviews highlight the convenience of the hotel pickup and the beautiful islands.
Bottom line: A straightforward, relaxing way to enjoy Palawan’s marine life and beaches without a full-day commitment.
11. Underground River Group Tour w/ Lunch & Return to Puerto Princesa
Offered as a more comprehensive option, the Underground River Group Tour combines the underground river with scenic landscapes and wildlife spotting. It includes lunch, making it a good value for those wanting a full-day experience. The tour is praised for its smooth organization and the chance to see not just the cave but surrounding rainforests.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want to combine nature, scenery, and culture, with the added benefit of a meal included.
$62.00 per person
12. Puerto Princesa: Honda Bay Island Hopping with Buffet Lunch
Similar to the previous Honda Bay tour but with a buffet lunch, this experience offers a full-day of island hopping with more variety. It’s especially good if you want to visit multiple islands like Cowrie, Luli, and Starfish, with the added comfort of a buffet. Reviewers enjoy the convenience and the delicious spread of food.
Bottom line: Upgrading to the buffet version is ideal for those who want a more relaxed, sit-down meal and a longer outdoor experience.
$64.11 per person
13. 2 hours Seafood lunch or dinner in Puerto Princesa
Finally, this seafood meal in Puerto Princesa offers a quick, delicious way to indulge in local flavors. The sampler menu includes fish, prawns, vegetables, and rice, with drinks included. It’s perfect if you’re craving a fresh seafood experience after sightseeing or as a relaxing end to your day.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a quality seafood meal without a long tour, ideal for a quick taste of Palawan’s culinary riches.
$50.00 per person
How to Choose Your Lunch Experience in Palawan
When selecting the best lunch experience, consider your budget, time constraints, and your interests. If you prefer a private, customizable day, the El Nido Private Tour A with Lunch is a standout. For those wanting more ecological and less crowded options, the Port Barton Full Day Island Hopping fits well, with its focus on conservation and local culture. Budget travelers might opt for the El Nido Island Hopping Tour A with Lunch, which offers value with multiple island visits.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on your preferred tour. Think about how much activity you want—whether a quick city seafood meal or a full day of island hopping—and pick accordingly.
Palawan offers an impressive variety of lunch experiences that beautifully complement its natural scenery. Whether you choose the privacy of a boat tour or the excitement of exploring underground caves, each option adds a delicious dimension to your trip. For a more intimate, tailored adventure, go for the private tours. If you’re on a tighter schedule or budget, group options still deliver plenty of memorable moments and fantastic food.
No matter what you choose, these experiences promise not just a meal but a chance to savor Palawan’s incredible landscapes and flavors. Don’t forget to book ahead—these tours are popular, and early planning guarantees a delicious, scenic lunch in this tropical paradise.