Port Barton Travel Guide: Hidden Beaches, Island Hopping & Laid-Back Vibes
Port Barton is a hidden paradise in Palawan, offering stunning beaches, island-hopping tours, and a chilled-out atmosphere without the crowds of El Nido. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape with turquoise waters, local charm, and amazing sunsets, this is the place for you! Here’s my guide to what to do, where to eat, and what I’d do differently next time.
✈️ Quick Summary
• Best Place to Stay: Aquarius Hotel – Great location near the beach
• Must-Try Food: Traditional breakfast dish with garlic rice at Oasis Restaurant
• Top Activity: Island hopping & swimming with sea turtles!
• Would I Go Back? YES! It’s one of Palawan’s best-kept secrets
🏨 Where I Stayed in Port Barton
Aquarius Hotel
• Location: Walking distance to the beach
• Pros: Friendly hosts, relaxed vibes, great value for money
• Cons: Slow WiFi (but perfect for disconnecting!)
💡 Tip: Port Barton has frequent power cuts, so bring a portable charger!
🍽️ Where I Ate – Best Food Spots in Port Barton
1. Happy Bar
• Best For: Beachfront dining with a chill vibe
• Must-Try: Pulutan (drink food snacks) & tropical cocktails
2. Oasis Restaurant (Oasis Port Barton Hotel)
• Best For: High-quality Filipino & Western dishes
• Must-Try: Chicken adobo
3. Kusinero del Barrio
• Best For: Traditional Filipino home-cooked meals
• Must-Try: Pork Sinigang
💡 Food Tip: Many restaurants don’t accept cards, so bring enough cash!
🏝️ Things to Do in Port Barton
1. Island Hopping Tour
• Cost: ~PHP 1,200 per person (includes lunch)
• Time Needed: Full-day trip
• Tip: Book through a local boat operator rather than a tour agency to get a better price!
2. Coconut Beach & The Famous Beach Pigs
• Cost: Free entry
• Time Needed: Half-day trip
• My Experience: The beach is beautiful and peaceful, and yes—there are actual pigs roaming the sand!
• Tip: Bring snacks & water—there are no shops nearby.
3. Chill & Watch the Sunset
White Beach – Quiet & secluded
Port Barton Main Beach – Relaxed & social vibe
💡 Would I Recommend? 100%! Port Barton feels like the “Bali before tourism”—calm, untouched, and stunning.
💡 Tips & Recommendations – What I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Port Barton
WiFi is very slow – Great for a digital detox but not ideal for remote work.
Bring cash – There’s only one ATM, and it often runs out of money!
Book island-hopping tours early – They fill up quickly!
🔄 What I Would Do Differently Next Time
I’d stay at least 3 nights instead of 2—it’s too beautiful to rush!
I’d rent a kayak and explore the coastline on my own.
I’d go off-grid and enjoy the slow pace of island life!
🌟 Final Thoughts – Is Port Barton Worth Visiting?
YES! If you want a relaxing, authentic beach escape, Port Barton is way less crowded than El Nido and still has some of the best island-hopping in Palawan. It’s the perfect spot to disconnect and enjoy nature.
💬 Have you been to Port Barton? Let me know your favourite spots in the comments!
Next Post: El Nido – The Ultimate Island-Hopping & Adventure Destination!
