​Port Barton: Travel Guide to Palawan’s Hidden Gem

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      ​Port Barton: Travel Guide to Palawan’s Hidden Gem

      Port Barton, San Vicente is not the first place that comes to mind when you mention Palawan. Puerto Princesa, Coron, and El Nido are the most sought-after destinations which also makes them the most crowded.

      Port Barton is not yet a hot spot, which is exactly why you should visit while its beauty is untouched. Its laid-back atmosphere is perfect for those who seek to peacefully commune with nature. Since the area is not yet as developed, there are no ATMs or electricity. Power only runs from 5 PM until midnight.

      ​Port Barton Palawan

      Even with these slight inconveniences, Port Barton deserves a spot on your itinerary. With so little information about Palawan’s hidden gem, we gathered information and tips to serve as your Port Barton travel guide.

      How to Get to Port Barton

          You can hop on a Skyjet plane from Manila to San Vicente. Another option would be to fly with Philippine Airlines from Clark to San Vicente. For price-sensitive travelers, it may be better to just take an AirSWIFT flight or 2Go ferry to Puerto Princesa than travel by land to Port Barton.

          Travel from Puerto Princesa to Port Barton

          Traveling by bus to Port Barton is the cheapest option but it takes around 4 hours. Ride an ordinary SBE Transport bus from the San Jose Terminal. There are limited trips per day, so book a seat ahead of time here. You can also travel by air-conditioned van. It takes 2-3 hours to reach Port Barton from Puerto Princesa. Online booking is also available.

          Travel from El Nido to Port Barton

          Getting to Port Barton from El Nido is pretty straightforward via shuttle van. Take a Recaro or Lexxus shared van. Travel time from El Nido to Port Barton can take 4-5 hours.  Book your seat in advance with PH Bus because there are only two scheduled departures per day: 8 AM and 1 PM.

          What to Do in Port Barton

          There are several islands, beaches, and waterfalls that you can visit. The most convenient way is to join a tour group for hassle-free arrangements, Here are the best tourist spots in Port Barton.

          Take an island-hopping tour

          port-barton-inaladelan-island-hopping-phbus
          Photo credits to @favouritetravelbuddy on Instagram

          Paradise Island, Exotic Island, and Inaladelan Island are places you don’t want to miss. Expect white sand and crystal-clear waters on all three! The best part? You get to enjoy these islands without the hordes of tourists.  Join a tour with other travelers here.

          Trek and chase waterfalls

          port-barton-paumayan-falls-phbus
          Photo credits to @fonsfavis on Instagram

          Paumayan Falls is only a stone’s throw away from San Vicente. With a distance of 5km from the town proper, you can easily walk or hire a motorbike to take you there. After taking a dip in Paumayan Falls, you can head further up north to Bigaho Falls where a larger cascade of water awaits. Both trails can be done at a leisurely pace. The lush rainforests shield you from the sun while the birds keep you company on your trek.

          Swim with sea critters

          port-barton-snorkeling-diving
          Photo credits to @labels_of_tomorrow on Instagram

          Learn to dive with licensed scuba schools in Port Barton. Alternatively, you can put on your snorkel and fins to catch a glimpse of underwater life at Twin Reef, Fantastic Reef, Aquarium Reef, and other marine sanctuaries. Keep an eye out for turtles!

          Catch the beach sunset

          port-barton-white-beach-sunset
          Photo credits to @thomito12 on Instagram

          There’s no better way to spend your holiday at Port Barton than by lounging on one of its pristine beaches. White Beach is a popular choice due to its tranquil atmosphere and clean surroundings. With a small entrance fee of 50 PHP, you are given access to the beach, hammocks, bathrooms, and cafe. It’s only a 20-minute trip from San Vincente. Other beaches you can visit are Itaytay Beach and Long Beach.

          Where to stay in Port Barton

          As you may have already guessed, there are no luxury resorts in Port Barton, Palawan. However, there are nice guesthouses that you can choose from. Here are our recommended Port Barton hotels and accommodations.

          Ausan Beach Front Cottages

          ausan-beach-front-cottage-port-barton
          Why book here: Airport transfer, beachfront, en suite bathrooms, air-conditioned rooms, WiFi, bar, playground

          Unodus Tourist Inn

          unodus-tourist-inn-port-barton
          Why book here: Airport transfer, great location, en suite bathrooms, air-conditioned rooms, WiFi

          Lunazul Guesthouse

          lunazul-guesthouse-port-barton
          Why book here: Airport transfer, great location, en suite bathrooms, WiFi, movie nights, restaurant, bar, common area

          Continue searching for more Port Barton hostels on Booking.com for the best deals.

          *Last updated: April 25, 2024