Barton
A tranquil coastal village in Palawan offering pristine beaches, vibrant island hopping, and a laid-back escape from the hustle.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunny days, calm seas
Barton
Best Time
Sunny days, calm seas

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil coastal village in Palawan offering pristine beaches, vibrant island hopping, and a laid-back escape from the hustle.
"Port Barton is a hidden gem, offering a more serene and authentic island experience than its popular neighbors."
Cash is King 💰
ATMs are scarce. Bring enough cash for your entire stay, including tours and food.
Jellyfish Alert! ⚠️
Avoid swimming at the main Port Barton beach due to jellyfish. Opt for island hopping tours for safer swimming.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Island Hopping Adventures
Various islands and snorkeling spots
Explore pristine islands, vibrant coral reefs, and hidden lagoons. Snorkel with diverse marine life and relax on secluded beaches.

Long Beach Serenity
Long Beach
A vast, undeveloped stretch of golden sand perfect for sunset strolls and peaceful relaxation away from the main town.

Barton Falls Trek
Barton Falls
Hike through lush jungle to discover a refreshing waterfall. Take a dip in its cool, clear waters for a natural escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Island Vibe
Island Hopping Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Cash is King 💰
ATMs are scarce. Bring enough cash for your entire stay, including tours and food.
Jellyfish Alert! ⚠️
Avoid swimming at the main Port Barton beach due to jellyfish. Opt for island hopping tours for safer swimming.
Island Hopping Deals 🏝️
Look for operators offering unlimited drinks on island hopping tours for a fun experience.
Embrace the Disconnect 📵
Wi-Fi can be spotty. Enjoy the chance to unplug and immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty.
Tips
from all over the internet
Cash is King 💰
ATMs are scarce. Bring enough cash for your entire stay, including tours and food.
Jellyfish Alert! ⚠️
Avoid swimming at the main Port Barton beach due to jellyfish. Opt for island hopping tours for safer swimming.
Island Hopping Deals 🏝️
Look for operators offering unlimited drinks on island hopping tours for a fun experience.
Embrace the Disconnect 📵
Wi-Fi can be spotty. Enjoy the chance to unplug and immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Port Barton is praised for its tranquil atmosphere, stunning natural beauty, and laid-back island vibe, offering a more relaxed alternative to busier Palawan destinations. Visitors love the pristine beaches, vibrant marine life during island hopping, and the refreshing waterfalls. However, some find the limited ATM access and occasional unreliable Wi-Fi inconvenient.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by van. Vans depart regularly from Puerto Princesa's San Jose Bus Terminal. The journey takes about 3-4 hours and costs around ₱350-₱500. Book your ticket in advance if possible, especially during peak season. Some travelers also opt for private transfers for more comfort.
Yes, direct van services connect El Nido and Port Barton. The trip typically lasts 3-5 hours, depending on road conditions. Similar to the Puerto Princesa route, vans are the most convenient option.
No, there is no airport in Port Barton. The nearest airport is in Puerto Princesa (PPS). From there, you'll need to take a van or bus to reach Port Barton.
Within Port Barton town, walking is easy as it's quite small. For longer distances or to reach nearby attractions like waterfalls, you can hire a tricycle or rent a motorbike. Island hopping tours are the primary way to explore the surrounding islands.
While there are ferries connecting other parts of Palawan, direct ferry services to Port Barton are not common. Vans are the most reliable and frequent mode of transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is typically an environmental fee required for visitors to Port Barton, which helps fund conservation efforts. This fee is usually collected upon arrival or when booking tours. Check with your accommodation or tour operator for the exact amount.
Group tours usually range from ₱1,200 to ₱1,500 per person, often including lunch and snorkeling gear. Private tours are more expensive but offer flexibility. Prices can vary depending on the itinerary and operator.
Yes, attractions like Barton Falls usually have a small entrance fee, typically around ₱20-₱50. This fee contributes to the maintenance of the site.
It's recommended to book popular island hopping tours in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot. You can often book through your guesthouse or directly with tour operators in town.
Most standard tours include visits to several snorkeling spots and islands, a delicious seafood lunch, snorkeling equipment, and sometimes a guide. Some tours offer unlimited alcoholic drinks.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
While the main beach has jellyfish issues, Long Beach is a stunning, expansive stretch perfect for relaxation and sunsets. Other beautiful spots are accessible via island hopping tours, like Starfish Island and German Island.
You can trek to Barton Falls for a refreshing swim, explore the town's laid-back vibe, enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants, or simply relax on the less crowded beaches. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular.
Absolutely! Port Barton is known for its friendly atmosphere and is a great destination for solo travelers. It's easy to meet people on tours and in hostels.
Morning departures are generally best for island hopping to make the most of the daylight and calmer seas. Tours typically last half a day or a full day.
Port Barton is generally less crowded than its northern neighbor, El Nido. It maintains a more relaxed and tranquil atmosphere, especially outside of peak holiday periods.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a variety of fresh seafood, Filipino classics, and international dishes. Many restaurants offer grilled fish, seafood platters, and local specialties. Don't miss trying fresh coconuts!
While seafood is abundant, many restaurants are accommodating and can prepare vegetarian or vegan dishes upon request. Look for vegetable stir-fries, rice dishes, and fruit-based meals. It's always good to ask.
Local favorites often include beachfront eateries serving fresh catches. Explore the main street for diverse options, from budget-friendly carinderias to more upscale dining. Ask locals for their current top picks.
Yes, several cafes and guesthouses offer decent coffee. Enjoying a cup with a view of the ocean is a popular way to start the day.
Absolutely! Look for local 'carinderias' (small eateries) for affordable and authentic Filipino meals. Street food and simple rice meals are budget-friendly choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The islands and beaches during island hopping tours are incredibly photogenic, especially during sunrise and sunset. Long Beach offers stunning panoramic views. The waterfalls and lush jungle provide great natural shots.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful, soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but great for underwater shots.
A drone can capture breathtaking aerial views of the islands and coastline, but be mindful of local regulations and respect private property. Many stunning shots can be achieved with a good camera or even a smartphone.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes and beaches. A waterproof camera or action camera (like a GoPro) is ideal for island hopping and underwater photography. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards!
While dedicated photography tours might be rare, you can arrange private island hopping tours that allow ample time for photography at each stop. Communicate your interests to your tour guide.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Accommodation options range from family-friendly guesthouses to bungalows. Consider places with easy beach access. While dining options are varied, many places can cater to simpler tastes. The slower pace of Port Barton is ideal for families looking to unwind and enjoy nature without the overwhelming crowds. Remember to pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent.
💰 Budget Travelers
Bring enough cash, as ATMs are scarce and card acceptance is limited. While some tours offer unlimited drinks, bringing your own reusable water bottle and refilling it can save money and reduce waste. Enjoying the free activities like relaxing on Long Beach or exploring the town on foot also keeps costs down.
🧘 Solo Travelers
Consider joining group tours to share costs and experiences. Many solo travelers find it easy to strike up conversations with locals and other visitors at beachfront bars and restaurants. Embrace the opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the serene environment at your own pace.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Island Hopping: Your Gateway to Paradise
When choosing a tour, consider whether a group tour or a private charter best suits your budget and preferences. Group tours are more economical and a great way to meet other travelers, while private tours offer flexibility in itinerary and pace. Always check what's included, such as snorkeling gear, lunch, and any park fees. Remember to bring your underwater camera to capture the vibrant coral and fish!
Navigating Port Barton: Getting Around and Staying Connected
Connectivity in Port Barton is a mixed bag. While some accommodations and cafes offer Wi-Fi, it can be slow and unreliable. Cellphone signal can also be spotty. This is part of the charm for many visitors, offering a chance to disconnect. It's advisable to download offline maps and important information before you arrive. If you need to stay connected, inquire about the best spots for Wi-Fi upon arrival. Bringing a portable power bank is also a good idea for charging devices on the go.
Responsible Tourism in Port Barton
Be aware of the local ecosystem. As mentioned, jellyfish can be present, particularly in the main bay, so heed local advice about safe swimming areas. Respect the local culture and traditions by dressing modestly when away from the beach and being polite to residents. By being a conscious traveler, you contribute to the sustainable development of Port Barton and ensure its natural wonders can be enjoyed for generations to come.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit