Escape To Port Barton, Palawan: 5 Best Things To See And Do

1. Visit the Turtle Sanctuary at Secret Paradise Resort, Turtle Bay

From its glorious sunsets to its appreciation of wildlife, Secret Paradise Resort and Turtle Sanctuary has got you covered. The semi-private resort is the only official turtle sanctuary endorsed by the Philippine Government (DENR) and the WWF- Philippines. It is situated in one of Palawan’s secluded bays, surrounded by tropical rainforests. Turtle Bay is a marine sanctuary and has been protected for almost a decade.

Anyone who sets foot in the protected area will enjoy the 3 kilometer (1.9 mile) coastline with its four beaches and its own waterfalls. The 77-hectare (190-acre) Nature Reserve will allow any traveler to enjoy fun and exciting activities such as watching the turtles lay their eggs or even seing how they hatch. In addition, you can explore the 28-hectare (69-acre) Marine Sanctuary by snorkeling with the turtles and fish - something truly to be experienced. Hiking, kayaking, relaxing in a hammock and romantic dinners are also the perks of visiting here.

To reach the Turtle Sanctuary, transfers from Port Barton are available. These rides are free for guests that have confirmed bookings, at least two or three days before your visit.

Secret Paradise Resort & Turtle Sanctuary

Address: Turtle Bay, Port Barton, San Vicente, Palawan

Price: from 50 USD to 300 USD

Opening Hours: 7am - 8pm.

Access: Private transfer by land and boat to and from Secret Paradise Resort. Transfers available from Puerto Pricesa City, Sabang, Port Barton and El Nido.

Contact: +63 999 880 2480

Website: Secret Paradise Resort and Turtle Sanctuary

2. Pick a theme and go island-hopping

Oh, yes! You’ve read it right - island-hopping in Port Barton allows you to customize your adventure. Tours are themed and you can choose from various packages that focus on adventure, culture, history, nature, shopping, the zoo and aquarium, or tours that focus on meals and entertainment. Expect to soak up the sun and enjoy the tranquility of the various islands Port Barton, San Vicente has to offer. The islands to visit are Twin Reef, German Island, Exotic Island, and Paradise Island.

The water surrounding Twin Reef is filled with the beauty of coral and fish and it is deep enough to swim and snorkel. German Island is well-known for its laid-back ambiance and is a great place to read a book, in a hammock, surrounded by coconut trees and gleaming bright green waters. (Watch for the turtles passing by, too). After German Island, island-hoppers will surely enjoy the white sand of Exotic Island. This isle is known for seeing the dogs that swim from one island to the other. Finally, to top off the island-hopping venture, Paradise Island is a good way to end the tour. This island used to be a small resort but now, it is in the able hands of a caretaker and his wife. They ward off poachers and make sure the beach is free from garbage.

Packages are available for any weary heart and begin at 55 USD per head, which includes a 7-hour excursion to the islands, lunch, tour guide, and the boat ride. For a three-day, two-night stay in Port Barton, whilst enjoying the isles, packages are available as well and are an average of 83 USD.

Port Barton Island Hopping

Address: Port Barton, San Vicente, Palawan

Website: Port Barton Island Hopping Packages

3. Go trekking to Pamuayan Falls

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Before cooling off at the sparkling cascades of Pamuayan Falls, one has to trek first. Pamuayan Falls is a 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) walk from the town center of Port Barton. The trek will take an average of 1.5 hours, through streams, a jungle, and some rice fields. While on the journey, you’ll also see various species of plants and animals but because the marks on the paths are not easily seen, hiring a tour guide is most advised. Tour guide rates range from 4 USD to 8 USD. Once the trek is finished, the feeling of exhaustion is easily and quickly replaced by a breathtaking sight. It is the best time to take that much-needed leap.

Pamuayan Falls is a 15 to 17 meter (49 to 56 foot) drop and is surrounded by a pond lined with palm trees. Because of the verdant and rich life of the surrounds, the area is also called the “Road Less Travelled,” as inspired by poet, Robert Frost.

4. Go kayaking and get lost in Small Lagoon reef

Small Lagoon is found in the cove of Miniloc Island. It is believed that a million years ago, the lagoon was actually caves but when their roofs collapsed, Small Lagoon emerged. The tranquility of this lagoon is best experienced either by kayaking or swimming through a small hole. Anyone will know they have arrived at this prized destination when they see the turquoise waters and the orchid-lined limestone walls. The lagoon is famous for its schools of fish and various patches of coral.

Kayaking in the Small Lagoon reef

Address: Port Barton, Palawan

Website: El Gordo’s Action Adventures

5. Eat your heart out with Filipino cuisine

Nothing else will finish off an unforgettable trip like unforgettable food – Filipino food, to be specific. Of the many places to eat at Port Barton, Ayette’s Bamboo House Restaurant, Kusinero Del Barrio Restobar and Mabuti Coffee and Ice Cream Restaurant are A-listers when it comes to Filipino Cuisine, done right.

Ayette’s Bamboo House Restaurant and Cottages is located near the Caltex station and is run by a family. Its picnic tables and nipa huts are traditionally welcoming and their signature seafood dishes are sure hits for foodies young and old. Ayette’s serves Western and Filipino food at very affordable prices. It also offers accommodation, specifically bungalows, with a convenient and relaxing little balcony. All bungalows have a fan and private bath and showers. It also has a mini-stop/bottle shop where you can buy liquor, wines and variety of groceries.

Ayette's Bamboo House Restaurant and Cottages

Address: Corner Rizal Ballesteros Street, San Vicente, Port Barton, Palawan, Philippines

Price: from 2 USD - 12 USD

Opening Hours: Check-in from: 2pm; Check-out until: 12pm; Reception open until: 9pm

Access: Ayette’s is located in the heart of Port Barton where the bus stops. 30m (98ft) away from the beach.

Contact: +63 918 967 6844

Facebook: Ayette’s Bamboo House Restaurant and Cottages

The rustic Kusinero Del Barrio is located on Rizal Street, in Port Barton. The place is famous for its Bistek Tagalog, vegetable curry and other native dishes. Hungry people enjoy meals whilst sitting Japanese-style with traditionally Filipino-designed and arranged tables. Foods served are Filipino and European dishes and they are mainly cooked by the “kusinero” or cook, who is also the owner. They serve homemade bread and fresh fruit juices as well as Asian, Filipino and vegetarian-friendly dishes.

Kusinero Del Barrio

Address: Rizal Street, Port Barton, Palawan, Philippines

Price: from 2 USD to 4 USD

Opening Hours: 7am - 11pm.

Contact: +63 921 401 6906

For the sweet tooth, Mabuti Coffee and Ice Cream Restaurant is the perfect choice. The shop is also located on Rizal Street, opposite the Elsa Resort. It is called the “best coffee shop in Port Barton” because of its local brew and homemade ice cream. Their prized spicy papaya salad is a winner for anyone needing a refreshing plate of goodness.

Mabuti Coffee and Ice Cream Restaurant

Address: Rizal Street Port Barton, Palawan, Philippines

Price: from 1 USD - 8 USD

Opening Hours: 7am - 10pm

Duration: around 3 hours required.

Access: Walk along the first street parallel to the beach on the left side of town (when facing the sea).

Contact: +63 995 465 7733

Port Barton: Everything you need and more

With all the sights and sounds that Port Barton has to offer, it is comforting to know there is such a beautiful place to enjoy rest and recreation. So sit back, relax and take a break. Palawan has everything you need and so much more. There is no better place to experience nature at its best, than here.