Port Barton

Port Barton. A place somewhat lost and forgotten throughout Palawan’s tourist inflation. It was unbelievably one of the first tourist destinations in Palawan, long before Puerto Princesa and El Nido. Main reason for it to be left out is probably the rocky and perilous road getting here. Geographically located between Puerto Princesa and El Nido, it is situated at the western part of San Vicente. It doesn’t have the limestone cliffs of El Nido and the Underground River of Puerto Princesa, but the thing that separates Port Barton is its isolation and seclusion. Yes, it is probably gaining popularity, but the number of tourists who come here are but a few. It doesn’t have the mayhem of tours El Nido and Puerto offer (more specifically not marketed like those two) – a reason people fail to see how breathtakingly beautiful it truly is. In my opinion, I see more life inside its waters, and I see peace in every island I step in. It promises you a lot of alone time and truly appreciate how the world is so beautiful if taken care of. So hop on and rediscover Port Barton’s solitary paradise!

HOW TO GET THERE

1. The easiest route would be via van (either from El Nido or Puerto Princesa Terminal). It would take you straight to Port Barton. Travel time will take 3 hours from Puerto Princesa or 5 hours from El Nido.

2. You could also try a cheaper route via bus (same terminal above) which will still take you straight to Port Barton as well.

WHERE TO STAY

You have two choices, either stay at Port Barton or on an Island Resort outside the port. Beach front hotels are all over Port Barton (the most popular is Ausan Resort), but there are also rooms available inside town for as low as 400php per night. Mostly foreigners choose the latter as they stay like a month or two. If you opt to stay on an Island (we stayed at Coconut Garden Island Resort), contact them early to fetch you from Port Barton. And remember, in an island resort – electricity, water, and food is limited. So bringing a gallon (or two) of water would be good.

WHERE TO DO?

Well, if there are islands, then there’s always island-hoppings! Inquire to any boatmen nearby or if checked-in to a hotel or resort, they probably have offers for you as well. Enjoy the picturesque panorama and have your best selfies!

Snorkeling and free-diving is super fun as you would expect to see lots of life underneath this isolated haven. A lot of snorkeling areas are present, some are just a kayak away from shore.

And if you love beaches, then you’d probably fall in love with the beaches here! The serene atmosphere is perfect for just chilling and strolling around. Also, you could visit the infamous “San Vicente Long Beach” which is a 14 kilometer white sand beach! There is plenty of room to run around and train your marathon juices here! Either you could take a boat from Port Barton to Long Beach, or just check-in on a hotel near the Long Beach!

Wide Reef