Port Barton is a wonderful destination in the Philippines that you shouldn’t miss. We were completely enchanted by Port Barton and have very strong memories from our time there. It may be just a small village, but I promise it has great character, and the people are among the most generous and happiest I have ever encountered. Furthermore, Port Barton is also magically beautiful. Read this Port Barton guide and you will have all you need to know about Port Barton.
Why Visit Port Barton?
Port Barton entices with its relaxed atmosphere and pristine beaches, perfect for a relaxing vacation. With opportunities for snorkeling and diving in the rich marine life, as well as exciting adventure activities like island-hopping and waterfall hikes, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Explore authentic Filipino culture by visiting local villages and discover why Port Barton is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking beauty and adventure in paradise.
How Long to Stay in Port Barton
Our recommendation is to spend at least 3 nights in Port Barton, that’s enough. That said, you can certainly stay longer too! It’s a wonderful place and was one of the highlights of our trip, so we could easily have spent a week just in Port Barton.
Guide for preparations for the Adventure of Port Barton
Before our trip to Port Barton, let’s prepare ourselves carefully for the adventure that awaits us. We start by planning our route from Puerto Princesa in Palawan, where every kilometer of our journey fills us with anticipation for exploring this hidden gem.
When packing our bags, we must ensure that we have all the necessities with us, from sunscreen to snorkeling gear (available for rent on-site). But preparations aren’t just about material things; they’re also about opening our senses to the unexpected and being ready to embrace the adventure waiting around every corner.
Here are some practical things to keep in mind before traveling to Port Barton
Currency and Payment Methods:
Make sure you have enough local currency, Philippine pesos, with you. Although some places accept credit cards, it’s good to have cash for smaller purchases and for paying for activities.
Communication
Be prepared for limited mobile network coverage in some areas of Port Barton. It may be wise to inform your loved ones about your planned stay and be prepared to be offline during parts of the trip.
Health and Safety
Bring a first aid kit with basic medicines and supplies to handle minor injuries and illnesses. Also, ensure you have enough sunscreen and insect repellent to protect yourself from the sun and insect bites.
Travel Insurance
Check that you have valid travel insurance covering medical care and evacuation if needed. It may also be wise to have travel insurance as it covers lost luggage and other unexpected events.
Clothing and Equipment
Pack light and comfortable clothing suitable for the warm and humid climate. Don’t forget to bring swimwear, flip-flops, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. If you plan to engage in water sports or activities, make sure you have appropriate equipment and clothing for that.
By keeping these practical tips in mind, you can make your trip to Port Barton as smooth and comfortable as possible, allowing you to fully enjoy everything this wonderful destination has to offer.
What to Do in Port Barton?
In Port Barton, there are a variety of activities to explore and enjoy. Here are some of the most popular things to do.
Island-Hopping
Embark on a boat tour and explore the surrounding islands. Stop at remote beaches, snorkel among coral reefs. Island-hopping is something you really should do during your stay. There’s not much better to do, in my opinion, than just floating around on the water in a boat and enjoying the beautiful nature surrounding you.
Snorkeling and Diving
Discover the rich marine life through snorkeling or diving. Explore colorful coral reefs and swim with tropical fish in the clear water. The water is crystal clear, perfect for snorkeling. There’s also a good chance you’ll encounter some turtles while you’re in the water!
Visit Waterfalls
Take a guided tour to one of the nearby waterfalls, like Papawyan or Bigaho Falls. Relax in the refreshing water and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Beach Life
Enjoy relaxing days on the pristine beaches of Port Barton. Sunbathe, swim, or take a stroll along the coast and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Explore Villages
Visit local villages like San Vicente and Inaladelan to learn more about Filipino culture and traditions. Interact with locals and try local dishes.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding and Kayaking
Rent a paddleboard or kayak and explore the coastline on your own. It’s a fantastic way to discover coves and caves that are difficult to reach on foot.
Sunset Cruises
End the day with a romantic sunset cruise along the coast. Enjoy spectacular colors as the sun sets over the horizon, creating an unforgettable view.
Regardless of your preferred type of activity, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Port Barton.
If you choose to book with onelifeadventures like we did. Then they will already have a great setup for you. The best thing about booking through them was that they took us out to a paradise island to spend a day/night there, completely on our own. This memory is my strongest from the Philippines. It was absolutely magical. We felt completely relaxed as soon as we stepped ashore on the island, completely away from all the stress that one normally has around them. The only things on the island were tents set up for us, a volleyball court, and a large treehouse. That was enough. We had an incredibly fun evening there…
We also got the chance to visit a local school thanks to One life adventures, which was located on an island in the middle of nowhere. It was truly a powerful experience. The children were running around everywhere and were as happy as can be to show us around. They even performed for us on a stage while we sat below and just watched. It doesn’t take much to make one happy!
Where to Stay in Port Barton?
We stayed at Rubins Resort, which is a great option. It was small, cute cottages located right in the middle of Port Barton, close to everything and only a stone’s throw from the beach. Perfect if you like to get up early and watch the sunrise. Otherwise, it was very clean and well-maintained!
When is the Best Time to Visit?
Choosing the right time to visit Port Barton is key to a successful trip. The best time to visit is during the dry season from November to April, when the weather is pleasant and the sea is calm. During these months, we can enjoy perfect conditions for exploring the islands and soaking up the sun. But if we prefer to avoid the crowds, we can consider visiting during the rainy season from May to October when the island is quieter and lush after the rains.
How to Get to Port Barton?
Getting to Port Barton is relatively easy, and there are several options depending on where you are in the Philippines. Here are some common ways to reach Port Barton:
Flight: The fastest way to reach Port Barton is by flying to the nearest airport, which is usually Puerto Princesa International Airport. From Puerto Princesa, you can then take a private transfer, bus, or van to Port Barton, which takes about 3-4 hours.
Bus or Van: From Puerto Princesa, you can take a bus or van to Port Barton. The journey takes about 3-4 hours, and there are several companies offering this service. It’s a cost-effective option and allows you to enjoy the scenery along the way.
Boat: If you’re on a nearby island, such as Coron or El Nido, you can take a boat to Port Barton. There are regular boat trips between these destinations, but it may be a bit more time-consuming and costly than flying or taking a bus.
Whichever option you choose, it’s best to plan your trip in advance and book your tickets ahead of time, especially during the high season when there may be high demand for transportation to Port Barton.
In Conclusion
As our epic journey through Port Barton comes to a close, we can look back on all the memories and experiences we’ve gathered along the way. From island-hopping tours to the charm of San Vicente, from the white sandy beaches to the hospitable people, Port Barton has left an unforgettable impression on all of us. And even though our time here is ending, we will always carry the memory of this magical place in our hearts.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. May your future adventures be filled with as much joy and discovery. Click here to read about our journey through Siargao.
See you on the road!
