Puerto Princesa Weather in January

January weather

Puerto Princesa stays warm in January, with highs around 28°C and nights near 26°C. But it's not reliably dry: rain falls on about half the days, and the sky is often cloudy. Showers can interrupt beach time or boat trips, though they don't usually wash out a whole day.

The Underground River is a good choice when the weather turns unsettled, while Honda Bay island-hopping works best when the sea is calm. Keep some flexibility in your plans, and don't count on long, sunny afternoons at the beach. February is much drier, so it's a better pick if sunshine matters most.

Crowds and costs

January is a popular time to visit Palawan, especially around New Year, when holiday travel can fill flights and tours. After the holiday rush, things may feel calmer, but Puerto Princesa still gets visitors escaping colder weather elsewhere. Prices are generally higher than in the wetter months, though February and March also draw plenty of travellers.

Families who want boat trips and beach time may prefer February, when rain is lower. In January, a flexible schedule can save a family day from feeling weather-bound.

Holidays and local tip

New Year's Day is a public holiday in the Philippines, so some businesses may close or run shorter hours. The Feast of the Santo Niño is also observed in many Filipino communities in January, though celebrations vary by place.

For the Underground River, arrange your permit through the Puerto Princesa booking office before travelling to Sabang. Entry is controlled, and you'll need to reach the park by road and boat. Rain can make the trip feel more damp than dramatic, but it's still a strong choice for a cloudy day.