Port Barton is a hidden gem in Palawan that retains its local identity. While El Nido and Coron are already well-promoted corners of Palawan, Port Barton offers a unique experience with its unpaved streets, relaxed atmosphere, and the opportunity to enjoy its beaches without making trips to nearby islands. Although electricity is now supplied all 24 hours and more hotels and restaurants are appearing here, Port Barton remains a favorite vacation destination for many travelers.
HOW TO GET TO PORT BARTON
Port Barton is located halfway between Puerto Princesa and El Nido. To get to Port Barton from both places, you can use buses and minibusses that make daily routes in this direction.
If you want to visit Port Barton from other places in the Philippines, you must get to Puerto Princesa or El Nido and then use public transport or a taxi.
From Puerto Princesa to Port Barton by van 
The trip from Puerto Princesa Airport to Port Barton takes about 3 hours, sometimes a little less, because buses usually go very fast and make one short rest stop. The fare is from $9-$11. Book a seat on the buses from Puerto Princesa to Port Barton.
Puerto Princesa Airport to Port Barton Schedule
Transport Name | Route Time | Price |
Lexxus Shuttle Van 9pax | Any time | $92 |
SBE Transport Van | 07:30 - 11:30 | $11 |
SBE Transport Van | 08:00 - 11:30 | $9 |
Lexxus Shuttle Regional 14pax | 10:30 - 14:30 | $10 |
Fortwally Travel and Tours Minivan | 13:00 - 16:00 | $10 |
Lexxus Shuttle Regional 14pax | 14:30 - 18:30 | $10 |
From El Nido to Port Barton by van
The most convenient way to get to Port Barton from El Nido is by minibusses, which travel several times a day from the bus terminal in El Nido. Departure at 13:00. In the high season, an additional bus is allowed at 17:00. The journey takes about 4-5 hours, costing $17 per person. Here is the booking link.
El Nido to Port Barton Schedule
Transport Name | Route Time | Price |
Lexxus Shuttle Regional 14pax | 13:00 - 18:00 | $17 |
WHAT TO DO IN PORT BARTON
You will probably enjoy just relaxing in Port Barton, taking your time, and enjoying peace and relaxation. Nevertheless, there will always be something to do here.
Spend a day on White beach
Take a boat on the main beach in Port Barton town center and head to White beach. Generally, a round trip should cost around 200 – 300 PHP ($4 – $6) per person.
Sitting on the soft and fine sand, you can watch the endless turquoise water for hours and still not see where it ends. The crystal clear ocean seems to be calling your name as you look into its depths.
It is a beautiful beach covered with white sand. There are also hammocks hanging between palm trees so you can relax while swinging in the breeze.
Meet green turtles and swim next to them
Small boats depart from Port Barton, allowing tourists to explore the paradisiacal neighboring islands, such as Exotic Island, Cayoya Island, or Capsalay Island. In addition, the snorkeling stops are fabulous and include places where you can see green turtles and swim next to them. But please don’t touch them.
Great spot for snorkeling or scuba diving
The town resides in the middle of Coron Bay on the island’s northern end. It’s an excellent spot for snorkeling or scuba diving because there are usually schools of fish swimming around in the water.
Hiking in Port Barton
You can choose from various activities to keep busy during your trip, such as hiking in Port Barton. Hiking in Port Barton is excellent. The most accessible hike is up Mount Mantalinga, and it’s a short 2-hour round trip hike. Another way is to explore the caves in El Nido.
Waterfalls around Port Barton
Pamuayan Waterfalls – walking to this small waterfall will not leave you indifferent. If you’re hungry for adventure, you can also walk to Bigaho falls.
Kayak through the clear waters of Port Barton
If water sports are fun, you’ll love Kayaking in Port Barton. Rent a kayak and sail to Starfish Island, dotted with starfish. This spot is popular with kayakers looking for solitude in a safe, protected location. Take advantage of the opportunity to go swimming and explore the shallows while you’re there.
Stunning sunsets
The sunsets in Port Barton are unique and unforgettable. This place is special. I want to come back again and again – just to enjoy the sunset over the harbor and watch it turn colors as day turns into night.
Bioluminescence in the night sea
Under the dim lights of night, you will find an illuminator that can’t be seen in daylight! The night sea is full of bioluminescent algae and plankton. When you stir the water, as if by magic these tiny particles flash brightly like fireflies.
WHERE TO STAY in Port Barton
Every year, more hotels and hostels appear in Port Barton, where you can stay overnight, and more exciting options are offered for small resorts with a swimming pool or cottages with all amenities.
Undoubtedly, it will not be difficult for you to find accommodation to your liking in Port Barton. But, in any case, due to the growing popularity of this place, it is worth deciding the issue of accommodation in advance.
Booking in advance is especially important during high season times such as Easter, Christmas, or Chinese New Year. On the hotel map, you can choose and book your favorite hotel in advance:
PORT BARTON VISITING TIPS
The best time to visit is from November to May.
Arrival fees: An environmental fee of 50 pesos is for each day of stay. It is better to always have a receipt with you, especially if you plan to travel to neighboring islands.
Health: There are no hospitals or clinics in Port Barton. You will have to be transferred to Puerto Princesa if something happens to you. Travel with good insurance that covers the transfer!
Food in Port Barton: Cafe Gacayan – for 50 pesos, you can get a portion of rice, a stew of the day, and a drink, good pizza at Gorgonzola Pizzeria
Security in Port Barton: Unfortunately, there are sometimes hotel thefts in Port Barton. Carefully read the reviews when booking accommodation!
