PORT BARTOn
Visitors visiting Palawan often miss Port Barton from their itinerary, and it really should be included for a few extra days of your time on this island.
The beautiful hideout in Palawan with stunning beaches, nature and waterfalls around. Port Barton is simply a two-road town, where after a few strolls you will end up on the beach. It is part of San Vincente county, where you have several islands around with more beaches and snorkelling. Finding a place where you would have a beach for yourself or would spend days walking barefoot is simply almost impossible nowadays.
The laid-back Port Barton is a simple place where you can fully relax and enjoy the moment. The town does not have ATMs around and you won’t have much choice of restaurants either. So make sure to get cash with you before you get here and some snacks along the way as well.
What to do and see?
White Beach
There are a number of hostels, guest houses and hotels located on White beach, which is the main beachfront of Port Barton. The name says it all, the sand is absolutely stunning. The beach stretches alongside the town with high palm and coconut trees from behind. The beach may not be the best for swimming, as a lot of boats are being parked here, but it does not stop you to go into the warm water.
Long Beach
Long Beach is north of San Vincente town and is the longest beach in the Philippines. The beautiful white sand beach is stretching over 14 kilometres with an undeveloped shoreline.
Island hopping
The island hopping tours are less busy than if you would go to El Nido and Coron. Some of the most popular island stops on the Port Barton island hopping tour is, for example, German Island, Starfish Island, Exotic Island, Twin reef, Fantastic reef and Aquarium reef. There are also a number of great snorkelling spots around Port Barton with great marine life ranging from turtles to clownfish. Obviously what you see will depend on your luck and time.
Pamuyan and Bigaho falls
It’s possible to visit both Bigaho Falls and Papawyan Falls from Port Barton. Bigaho Falls is a short walk from Port Barton beach, whereas Papawyan Falls takes about 45-60 minutes to reach on foot. Admittedly the waterfall itself is not huge, but it’s a lovely spot for a morning walk through the forest and offers up a refreshing spot for a dip. Waterfalls are not as big as in other places in the Philippines. Some of the stunning waterfalls can be found on Cebu island.
Sunset
During my stay in Port Barton, I witnessed the most beautiful sunsets here in Palawan. Doesn’t matter what beach are you, the view is stunning from everywhere. Get yourself comfortable on a beach with a drink and enjoy the silent moments watching the rich colours painting the sky and slowly fading.
Kayaking
Most of the accommodations may offer you to rent a kayak, so take the opportunity to go kayaking one morning before the sun starts burning. Use this exercise and opportunity to explore the nearby islands or beaches.
How to get here and around?
Port Barton is located halfway through Puerto Princesa to El Nido. The journey by bus or shared van takes about 3 to 4 hours with a stop on the way. The cost for a minivan was 500 pesos per person, and it needs to be booked in advance, as they are limited vehicles per day.
And then depending on where your accommodation will be, you can get a tricycle or a boat to get around because there is a number of beautiful parts of Port Barton that can be accessible only by boat or motorbike. Therefore, if you know how to ride, you can hire a motorbike to get around.
No matter how you will get to Port Barton or how long you will stay, tourists have to pay 50 pesos for environmental fees, and you should keep the card with you all the time.
From Port Barton, it is also easy to get another shared van to El Nido for 600 pesos. You can arrange this once you arrive at Port Barton bus station.
Where to stay?
Located on Naonao Beach in Port Barton, Marianjoy haven beach resort offers a private beach area. This property also has a restaurant and a terrace. During our stay here we stayed at Mariejoy haven beach resort. Tucked away a 20min boat drive from Port Barton, it was an immersive break in nature. Spending the whole time barefoot and watching the animals around and Mother Nature breathing is like learning how to live once again. The resort offers breakfast, lunch, dinner and snack on the place, as there is nowhere else to go. The Nao Nao beach actually is shared with other 2 more accommodations, and you are welcome to explore their outdoor seating or go to their restaurants if you want to change the scenery.
There are about 9 cottages in total, which uses solar panels, so during the day, there is no electricity, only in the main building. There is also no wifi or a very weak phone signal, so you will have to get used to living in a moment and being offline for a few days. Staff are here very friendly and helpful, and very personal.
Set in San Vicente, 100 yards from Itaytay Beach, CocoRico Hostel offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar and a garden. There has to be always a place where tourists can mingle and party all night long, and this is a place to do so. The hostel also offers evening entertainment and ticket for tour booking.
Balili Eco Glamping Port Barton
Situated 450 yards from Itaytay Beach, Balili Eco Glamping Port Barton features accommodation with a garden, a terrace and room service for your convenience. A unique glamping experience surrounded by nature for those who are after memorable experiences in Port Barton.
Rubin Resort is located in Port Barton. The resort has a year-round outdoor pool and sun terrace, and guests can enjoy a drink at the bar. Free WiFi is featured in some areas within the property and free private parking is available on-site.
There are plenty of accommodations available in Palawan. However, please note that Port Barton may be limited in getting internet or wifi access.
