Sabang is the main gateway to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River (Underground River) near the Palawan capital of Puerto Princesa. Although essentially just a small village, it’s quite interesting.
Everything is within walking distance in Sabang, although tourists will need to boat it from the pier to get to the Underground River. The other alternative is to walk the five-kilometer monkey trail, a 1 or 2-hour trek.
The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River is a popular World Heritage site, a long underground river with some fantastic rock formations and beautiful waters. It is one of the highlights of the entire Palawan island province. There is also a natty mangrove river cruise nearby.
Things to do in Sabang itself include lazing on Sabang Beach, shopping for local handicrafts, eating at the many Asian and Western restaurants in the village, and sampling the many bars.
Travel to Sabang - getting there
Puerto Princesa Airport is the gateway to Palawan and Sabang. Flights take about 1 hour from Manila Airport and also come in from Davao and Cebu City. Jeepneys run to downtown Puerto Princesa, from where buses run to Puerto Galera, a three kilometer journey from Sabang. The last leg is best done by jeepney.
Sabang attractions
Sabang Beach: a pretty, palm-lined beach backed by a range of resorts and fun beach bars.
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River: a stunning eight-kilometer long underground river with all sorts of rock formations.
Side trips from Sabang
Honda Bay: an area of several islets to the east, with loads of beaches and great swimming.
In brief
What to do: boating the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, lazing on Sabang Beach, chilling in the village.
Best time to go: December to March has the most favorable weather in Sabang.
How long? One night in Sabang is ample.
Trivia: Sabang is the main access point for the world famous Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.