Beach Vacations
Palawan Under the Radar: Why Port Barton is the 10/10 Beach Trip You’re Missing 🛶🥥

Palawan Under the Radar: Why Port Barton is the 10/10 Beach Trip You’re Missing 🛶🥥

Malia SantosBy Malia Santos
Destinations

Okay, real talk: Everyone and their mother is going to El Nido and Coron right now. And don't get me wrong—they’re stunning. 10/10 water, insane cliffs, the whole bit. But if you’re like me and you want that "I’m the only person on this beach" feeling without paying $800/night for a private island resort, you need to look at Port Barton and San Vicente.

I’ve been deep in the weeds (and by weeds, I mean 12 tabs of ferry schedules and DMs with my cousins in Cebu 🇵🇭) to make sure this info is actually current for 2026. Because nothing ruins a vibe faster than showing up to a pier and finding out the boat you planned on doesn't exist anymore.

The Vibe: Port Barton

Port Barton is what El Nido was 15 years ago. It’s a sleepy fishing village where the "main road" is still mostly sand. There are no massive resorts here—just cute bamboo bungalows, local guesthouses, and some of the best mango shakes you’ll ever have. It’s low-key, it’s affordable, and it’s gorgeous.

The Secret Spot: San Vicente (Long Beach)

Just up the coast is San Vicente, home to Long Beach. It’s 14 kilometers of unbroken white sand. 14 kilometers! Most of the time, you’ll have entire sections of it completely to yourself. It’s criminal how underrated this place is.

The Logistics (Real Talk Edition)

Okay, here is the stuff other blogs won't tell you because it's not "aesthetic":
  • Getting There: Fly into San Vicente (SWIFT Air or PAL) if you can snag a deal. Otherwise, take a van from Puerto Princesa (about 3-4 hours). Pro tip: Book the "private" van option if you’re a group of 3+. It’s only about $20 more total and saves you from being squished like a sardine.
  • The Boat Situation: There used to be a direct boat between Port Barton and San Vicente. Update for 2026: Local government has currently suspended these direct public routes. You now have to take a land transfer (about 1.5 - 2 hours) or hire a private boat, which will run you about 2,500 - 3,000 PHP. Don't let an old blog post tell you otherwise!
  • Money: ATMs are notoriously flaky here. Bring more cash than you think you need. Seriously. 0/10 would recommend being stuck without pesos in a town where the nearest working ATM is 3 hours away.

Malia’s 10/10 Recommendations

  • Eat: Gacayan Restaurant in Port Barton. It’s cheap, it’s local, and the portions are huge. Get the Garlic Butter Shrimp.
  • Do: Island Hopping Contest. Everyone does "Tour A" or "Tour B." Ask a local boatman to take you to Exotic Island early in the morning before the three other boats show up.
  • Stay: Look for "Ausan Beach Front Cottages" in Port Barton. It’s right on the sand and has that authentic Palawan feel.

Palawan is magic, but only if you do it right. Skip the crowds, bring your reef-safe sunscreen, and go find your own slice of sand. 🌊✨

Note: Information verified as of February 20, 2026. Ferry and van schedules in the Philippines are notoriously fluid—always double-check with your guesthouse the night before travel!