HOTEL REVIEW: Amorita Resort & Spa – Puerto Princesa

Amorita Resort & Spa Palawan Review: A Luxurious Eco-Sanctuary in the Heart of Puerto Princesa

Some hotels simply provide a place to sleep, while others become part of a destination’s story. During my recent trip to Puerto Princesa City for the vibrant Baragatan Festival, Amorita Resort & Spa Palawan became exactly that—a memorable chapter in an already unforgettable Palawan adventure.

Our group of travel writers had been invited by the Palawan Tourism Council to experience Puerto Princesa during one of its most colorful celebrations. After spending three wonderful nights at The Funny Lion Puerto Princesa, I transferred to Amorita Resort & Spa Palawan for another two nights of indulgence and relaxation. Conveniently located in the same vicinity, the transition from one property to the next was effortless, yet the atmosphere at Amorita felt entirely distinct—a secluded sanctuary offering a more refined and tranquil side of Puerto Princesa.

A Hidden Oasis in the City

Amorita Resort & Spa Palawan is located along F. Ponce de Leon Road in Barangay San Pedro, right in the center of Puerto Princesa City. Despite its accessible location, stepping into the resort feels like entering an entirely different world.

Nestled within lush tropical gardens and positioned along a secluded, mangrove-fringed shoreline, the resort enjoys panoramic views of the Sulu Sea. The natural surroundings create an atmosphere of complete serenity, allowing guests to disconnect from the city’s pace without ever being too far away from its conveniences. Local transport apps and taxis are readily available, making it easy to explore nearby attractions, restaurants, and cultural sites.

The balance between accessibility and seclusion is perhaps one of the property’s greatest strengths.

First Impressions: A Warm Welcome to Paradise

From the moment I arrived, Amorita Resort immediately conveyed a sense of understated luxury.

Dita Hall Reflective Pool Amorita Resort and Spa Palawan

The resort’s brutalist-inspired architecture, softened by limewashed walls, natural textures, and muted earth tones, created an ambiance that was both sophisticated and calming. Rather than overwhelming guests with extravagance, the design embraced simplicity, allowing Palawan’s natural beauty to take center stage.

The arrival experience was seamless. I was greeted with genuine smiles, a refreshing cold towel, and a signature chilled welcome drink that instantly eased away the tropical heat. The check-in process was impressively swift yet highly personalized. Within minutes, I was being escorted to my suite, eager to begin my stay in this tranquil retreat.

It was hospitality delivered with quiet confidence—efficient, warm, and heartfelt.

My Home Away from Home: The Premier Suite Room

For two nights, I had the pleasure of staying in one of Amorita’s Premier Suite Rooms, and it quickly became one of my favorite accommodations in Puerto Princesa.

The suite was exceptionally spacious and thoughtfully designed, blending contemporary elegance with natural elements inspired by the island setting. Earthy hues, textured finishes, and carefully selected furnishings created an inviting atmosphere that immediately put me at ease.

My bed for 2 nights at Amorita Resort Puerto Princesa

Floor-to-ceiling windows allowed abundant natural light to flood the room during the day, while offering peaceful views of the surrounding greenery. Plush bedding dressed in crisp linens promised restful nights, while the separate lounge area provided the perfect space to unwind, catch up on work, or simply enjoy a quiet cup of coffee.

Every detail appeared intentionally curated to elevate comfort. Modern conveniences included high-speed Wi-Fi, a smart television, coffee and tea-making facilities, a well-stocked minibar, generous closet space, and multiple storage options that would easily accommodate guests on extended stays.

The bathroom itself felt like a private spa sanctuary. Featuring premium bath amenities, elegant fixtures, and ample space, it transformed even the simplest routines into moments of indulgence.

One of my favorite features was the private balcony overlooking the forested landscape. Early mornings were accompanied by birdsong and gentle breezes, while evenings invited moments of reflection beneath Palawan’s starlit skies.

However, the true highlight of the suite was undoubtedly the beautifully crafted wooden bathtub. After long days exploring Puerto Princesa and attending Baragatan festivities, soaking in the warm bath became a ritual I genuinely looked forward to. It added a deeply restorative element to the entire stay.

The Premier Suite wasn’t simply luxurious—it felt deeply personal, designed to encourage guests to slow down and savor every moment.

Dining at Katala: Celebrating Palawan’s Flavors

Food is often one of the most memorable aspects of any hotel stay, and Amorita delivered beautifully on this front.

Katala Restaurant Poolside Amorita Resort & Spa Puerto Princesa

The resort’s all-day dining restaurant, Katala, pays tribute to one of Palawan’s most treasured endemic species—the Philippine cockatoo, locally known as the “Katala.” Once critically endangered, the Katala has become an important symbol of conservation efforts within the province. Naming the restaurant after this iconic bird reflects the resort’s appreciation for Palawan’s natural heritage and commitment to sustainability.

Breakfast at Katala quickly became one of my favorite daily rituals.

The breakfast at the resort is composed of freshly prepared à la carte offerings. Guests could enjoy an assortment of freshly baked breads and pastries, local delicacies, made-to-order egg dishes, seasonal fruits, international breakfast staples, and comforting Filipino favorites.

One standout for me was the resort’s signature native hot chocolate—rich, velvety, and wonderfully nostalgic.

The dining spaces themselves perfectly complemented the culinary experience. Designed with an open and airy layout, the restaurant offered relaxing views of the surrounding gardens, allowing guests to enjoy their meals in a serene tropical setting. The attentive staff elevated the experience further through genuine hospitality and thoughtful service.

Beyond breakfast, Katala’s menu showcased an appealing balance of international flavors and locally inspired Palawan cuisine. Whether indulging in fresh seafood, savoring authentic pasta dishes, or enjoying hearty comfort food after a day of island adventures, every meal felt carefully executed and family-friendly.

I also sampled some of their à la carte dishes from the menu, including the Inasal ala Puebla—succulent spring chicken grilled with citrus annatto, encased in a rich tablea mole crust, served alongside fejioda mung beans, crispy fried plantains, and smooth papaya puree.

Among the soups on the menu, I was especially drawn to their White Clam Suam, a rich and fragrant broth featuring tender clams nestled in a vibrant lemongrass turmeric corn puree. The dish was garnished with crispy seaweed croutons, smoky burnt young corn, and fresh herbs, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Their Crackling Pork rice plate was truly exceptional, featuring a generous portion of crispy pork belly crackling that crackled delightfully with each bite. Accompanying the main dish were hearty feijoada-style mung beans, seasoned with smoky spices, alongside a vibrant shrimp sambal that added a touch of heat and tang. Roasted tomatoes contributed a sweet, smoky depth, while fragrant steamed rice completed the plate, infusing each mouthful with a comforting aroma.

I appreciate the way they showcased their best-selling Banana Blossom, a beautifully crafted dish that combines the delicate crunch of banana heart tempura with savory eggplant and fresh bok choy antipasto. It is complemented by crisp cucumber, jicama, and tender, crispy baby shrimp, all drizzled with a rich peanut satay vinaigrette that adds depth and flavor.

My absolute favorite dish is their Aubergine Crisps, which feature crispy eggplant chips paired with a rich tomato compote, tangy pickled onions, slices of green mango, savory Kalamata olives, crunchy pumpkin seeds, and a hint of spicy ginger, all beautifully complemented by creamy yogurt dressings.

Adding to the excitement, the resort will soon introduce Turchino, a contemporary Italian restaurant featuring elegant indoor spaces and charming al fresco seating. It promises to become another compelling reason to return.

Facilities Designed for Relaxation and Connection

Amorita Resort & Spa Palawan successfully combines leisure, wellness, and functionality within its thoughtfully designed facilities.

Pool at Amorita Resort and Spa Puerto Princesa

As a four-star luxury eco-sanctuary, the resort offers two inviting outdoor swimming pools surrounded by lush landscaping, providing tranquil spaces for both relaxation and recreation.

Guests seeking rejuvenation can indulge in treatments at the full-service spa, while those wishing to maintain their fitness routines will appreciate the well-equipped fitness center.

The property also features versatile conference and event facilities, making it suitable for corporate gatherings, intimate celebrations, and destination events.

Whether traveling for business, leisure, romance, or family vacations, guests at the resort enjoy amenities that cater to a wide range of preferences without compromising its intimate atmosphere.

A Fond Farewell

As with any exceptional stay, departure arrived far too soon.

Fortunately, the checkout process mirrored the efficiency of my arrival. It was quick, organized, and hassle-free, allowing me to focus on cherishing the memories I had created during my time at the resort.

What lingered most, however, was the sincerity of the farewell. The team’s genuine warmth transformed what could have been a routine goodbye into a memorable final touch—one that reflected the thoughtful service I had experienced throughout my stay.

It served as a beautiful reminder that luxury is not solely defined by elegant rooms or impressive amenities, but by the people who make guests feel truly valued.

P.S. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Nilo Quizon for his exceptional care throughout my stay, ensuring I was comfortable, well attended to, and truly welcomed.

How to Book

Amorita Resort & Spa Palawan is part of One-Of Collection, a Philippine hospitality group celebrated for its award-winning boutique luxury resorts and meaningful destination experiences rooted in thoughtful design, authentic connections, and heartfelt service.

For bookings and reservations, guests may call +63 917 861 9441, email sales@amoritaresortpalawan.com, or visit www.amoritaresort.com/puerto-princesa.

Final Thoughts

My stay at Amorita Resort & Spa, Palawan, exceeded expectations in more ways than one. Combining sophisticated accommodations, exceptional dining experiences, tranquil surroundings, and genuinely attentive service, the resort offers an elevated escape in the heart of Puerto Princesa.

I wholeheartedly recommend Amorita Resort & Spa Palawan to couples seeking a romantic retreat, discerning travelers in search of boutique luxury, families looking for a peaceful yet convenient city resort, and anyone wishing to experience Palawan through a lens of comfort, authenticity, and refined hospitality.