
Port Barton Bay
A tranquil paradise in Palawan, offering pristine islands, vibrant marine life, and a laid-back village charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best weather and marine life

Port Barton Bay
Best Time
Best weather and marine life
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil paradise in Palawan, offering pristine islands, vibrant marine life, and a laid-back village charm.
"Truly a dream. The village is very cute and the beach very idyllic."

Carry Plenty of Cash
ATMs are rare; cash is essential for tours, food, and souvenirs.
Book a Combination Tour
Let your boatman customize your island hopping adventure!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Port Barton Bay Islands
Port Barton Bay
Explore a dozen islands with pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life. A must-do for any visitor!

Coconut Beach
Coconut Beach
Famous for its unique inhabitants – wild pigs that roam the beach! A quirky and memorable experience.

Peña Plata Private Beach
Peña Plata
A secluded paradise offering relaxation, snorkeling, and fresh seafood. Perfect for a day trip or even camping.

Bay Brew Resto Bar
Port Barton
Indulge in IG-worthy vibes and the legendary Crocodile Pizza at this popular eatery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Cash Economy
Island Hopping is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Carry Plenty of Cash
ATMs are rare; cash is essential for tours, food, and souvenirs.
Book a Combination Tour
Let your boatman customize your island hopping adventure!
Try the Crocodile Pizza
A unique culinary experience at Bay Brew Resto Bar.
Visit Coconut Beach
See wild pigs on the beach for a quirky photo op.
Tips
from all over the internet
Carry Plenty of Cash
ATMs are rare; cash is essential for tours, food, and souvenirs.
Book a Combination Tour
Let your boatman customize your island hopping adventure!
Try the Crocodile Pizza
A unique culinary experience at Bay Brew Resto Bar.
Visit Coconut Beach
See wild pigs on the beach for a quirky photo op.
Embrace the Slow Pace
Port Barton is a sleepy village; relax and enjoy the island life.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Port Barton is lauded as a quiet, unspoiled paradise with stunning islands and a charming village atmosphere. Visitors rave about the incredible island hopping tours, the fresh seafood, and the relaxed, friendly vibe. Some find the limited ATM access and occasional power outages inconvenient, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, often described as a dream destination.
"Port Barton is situated between the Underground River and El Nido. It is a 2 and a half hour van trip from Puerto Princesa and a one hour boat trip from the recently opened San Vicente airport.
Port Barton is a sleepy little town loved by back packers, but still has a vibrant live music following.
The Port Barton Bay has more than a dozen islands to attract island hoppers and it's not uncommon to see dozens of tour boats leave early morning around 9 am and return after 4pm.
Come to Port Barton, but get out onto the water and enjoy Port Barton Bay to the fullest.
Boat operators offer trip Tour A B C and D, but the most popular is the 'combination' tour. This is where the boatmen choose where to go based on the requests from their guests.
The most important thing to do is to choose a boatman who seems happy to please his guests.
The prices for a day island hopping is Php 1200 which includes a delicious lunch prepared by the boatmen on one of the islands."
Malcolm Brewer
"Quiet, unspoilt do far and beautiful."
Keith Maxwell
"Amazing"
Daniele Savio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by van, which takes about 2.5 hours. You can find vans departing regularly from Puerto Princesa's van terminals.
Yes, San Vicente Airport (SWL) is relatively new and offers a boat trip of about an hour to Port Barton, making it a convenient option if flights are available.
Yes, you can travel between El Nido and Port Barton by van or by boat. The van journey is longer, while the boat trip offers scenic views of the coastline.
The village itself is small and easily walkable. For longer distances or to reach nearby beaches, you can rent a motorbike or hire a tricycle.
No, there are no direct flights to Port Barton. You'll typically fly into Puerto Princesa (PPS) or potentially San Vicente (SWL) and then take ground or sea transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A full-day island hopping tour typically costs around Php 1200, which usually includes a delicious lunch prepared by the boatmen on one of the islands.
While not always necessary, booking your tour a day in advance, especially during peak season, is recommended to secure your preferred boat and schedule.
Some islands may have small environmental or entrance fees, usually collected by the boatmen as part of the tour package. It's good to clarify this when booking.
Island hopping tours usually depart around 9 AM and return by 4 PM, allowing for a full day of exploration.
It's possible to negotiate prices, especially if you're in a group or traveling during the off-season. However, ensure you're getting a fair price for the service.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Popular choices include Coconut Beach (for the pigs!), Starfish Island, German Island, and various snorkeling spots teeming with marine life. The 'combination' tour is a great way to see a variety.
You can expect to see colorful coral reefs, a variety of tropical fish, sea turtles, and sometimes even small sharks.
Yes, Coconut Beach is famous for its resident wild pigs! You can also find unique dining experiences like Crocodile Pizza at Bay Brew Resto Bar.
Port Barton is known for its laid-back, sleepy, and unspoiled atmosphere, attracting backpackers and those seeking a quieter escape. It also has a live music scene.
Yes, some private beaches like Peña Plata offer camping opportunities, allowing for a more immersive nature experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Joan's Cuisine is highly recommended for fresh seafood like paella and grilled squid. Bay Brew Resto Bar is famous for its Crocodile Pizza. Many local eateries offer delicious Filipino dishes.
Yes, seafood is generally very fresh, as Port Barton is a fishing village. Prices are reasonable, especially when included in island hopping tours.
While seafood is prevalent, many local eateries can prepare vegetarian dishes upon request. It's best to ask the staff.
Look for fresh grilled fish, kinilaw (Filipino ceviche), and local fruit shakes. Don't miss the unique Crocodile Pizza if you're adventurous!
Yes, some restaurants and bars cater to Western tastes, offering options like pizza, pasta, and burgers, alongside local Filipino cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
The numerous islands with their white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and the unique sight of pigs on Coconut Beach are all incredibly photogenic.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour lighting for stunning beach and bay shots. Midday provides bright, clear light for underwater photography.
The 'Overlooking' spot offers panoramic views of Port Barton Bay, perfect for capturing the expanse of the islands and the village.
A waterproof camera or action camera is ideal for island hopping and snorkeling. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local guidelines and be respectful of private property and local customs before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💑 Couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Island Hopping Adventures
When choosing a boatman, look for someone who seems genuinely happy to please their guests. A good boatman can enhance your experience by pointing out marine life, finding the best snorkeling spots, and ensuring a smooth journey. Popular island destinations include Coconut Beach, known for its resident wild pigs, and various spots teeming with starfish and vibrant coral reefs. Remember to bring your snorkeling gear, though some tours may provide it. The underwater world here is a significant draw, with opportunities to see turtles, exotic fish, and beautiful coral formations.
Key takeaway: Prioritize booking a tour that allows for customization and choose a boatman who is attentive to your needs. Don't forget your underwater camera to capture the incredible marine biodiversity.
Culinary Delights of Port Barton
Beyond these highlights, numerous local eateries and small restaurants offer authentic Filipino cuisine. You can expect to find fresh grilled fish, 'kinilaw' (Filipino ceviche), and an array of local vegetable dishes. Many places also offer refreshing fruit shakes and smoothies, perfect for cooling down after a day in the sun. While the focus is on local flavors, some establishments also cater to international tastes, providing familiar options like pasta and burgers.
Pro-tip: Always carry cash, as many smaller establishments do not accept credit cards or e-wallets. Don't hesitate to ask about daily specials or recommendations from the staff – they often know best!
The Charm of Port Barton Village
While the village is compact and easily navigable on foot, you can rent motorbikes or hire tricycles for exploring nearby areas or reaching more distant beaches. The 'Overlooking' spot provides a fantastic vantage point for capturing panoramic views of the bay and the surrounding islands, offering a moment of reflection and appreciation for the natural beauty. For those interested in local crafts and souvenirs, shops like AOK ALLDAY offer unique merchandise that captures the local vibe.
Insider tip: Embrace the slow pace of life. Port Barton is about unwinding, connecting with nature, and enjoying the simple pleasures.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit