When traveling in the Philippines, the sheer number of islands, towns, and beaches to explore can be overwhelming. With over 7,000 islands, it’s virtually impossible to see everything in one trip, or even try and explore the entirety of one region. Getting around the country requires either booking multiple flights, which can be very expensive, or enduring long bus and ferry rides, as many islands lack airports. But for those willing to take the journey, some of the most breathtaking and peaceful destinations in the Philippines await—places that remain off the radar of mainstream tourism, and far away from a big, loud city.
One of the most popular regions to visit in the Philippines, is Palawan, a long, narrow island on the western side of the Philippines. Palawan is full of stunning beaches, lush landscapes, thousands of palm trees, and the ultimate island vibe. Palawan is best known for El Nido, a stunning coastal town at its northern tip, renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and world-class island hopping tours and expeditions. Many travelers fly directly into El Nido or into Puerto Princesa, the island’s capital, located about a 4.5-hour drive south. While both destinations are incredible, many visitors overlook one of Palawan’s true hidden gems: the tranquil and amazing beach town of Port Barton.
The Charm of Port Barton
Nestled along the coast between Puerto Princesa and El Nido, Port Barton offers a quiet escape from the busier tourist hotspots. It has just enough infrastructure to provide a comfortable and enjoyable stay while maintaining an unspoiled, laid-back atmosphere. The town is small but welcoming, with a stunning beachfront, a handful of cozy accommodations, and a relaxed, slow-paced vibe that makes it the perfect place to unwind.
During my time in Palawan, I fell in love with Port Barton’s serene beaches, friendly locals, and peaceful surroundings. Compared to El Nido, where tourism has grown significantly in recent years, Port Barton feels like an untouched paradise. That’s not to say El Nido isn’t incredible—it absolutely is, and it’s popular for a reason—but Port Barton provides a more secluded, budget-friendly alternative for those seeking a true island escape. Food, accommodations, and activities are also noticeably cheaper, making it a great option for backpackers or anyone looking to stretch their travel budget.
There may not be a long list of tourist attractions in Port Barton, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. It’s the kind of place where you can simply slow down, relax, and soak in the natural beauty. I spent three nights there, which felt like the perfect amount of time to explore, unwind, and experience the best of what the area has to offer.
Things to Do in Port Barton
While Port Barton is primarily a place to relax, there are still some amazing experiences to enjoy during your stay.
1. Relax on Port Barton Beach
The heart of the town is Port Barton Beach, a long stretch of powdery white sand lined with swaying palm trees and a handful of beachfront cafés and restaurants. The water here is calm and clear, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just unwinding with a book. There is so much space to lay your towel out, grab your book, and just enjoy the views. It’s the kind of place where you could easily spend your entire stay doing nothing but enjoying the sun, sand, and sea.
2. Visit Coconut Beach and White Beach
If you’re up for a little adventure, two even quieter and more pristine beaches are located nearby.
- Coconut Beach: As the name suggests, this beach is lined with hundreds of coconut trees, creating a postcard-perfect tropical setting. It’s a peaceful spot where you can relax in the shade, listen to the gentle waves, and watch free-roaming pigs and dogs wander along the shore. Just be mindful of falling coconuts! If you chose to go swimming, be careful of jellyfish, as they are more common on this beach than they are in the main beach of Port Barton.
- White Beach: Often regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines, White Beach offers pure tranquility, with soft white sand, turquoise waters, and breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. Whether you visit just one of these beaches or both, you won’t be disappointed—they are absolute slices of paradise.
Both beaches are accessible by boat, kayak, motorbike, hiring a taxi, or a scenic trek through the jungle. If you’re looking for a more active way to explore the coastline, renting a kayak or hiking through the lush forest is a rewarding way to reach these hidden gems.
3. Go on an Island Hopping Tour
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Port Barton is by joining an island-hopping tour. I booked a full-day tour through my hostel for just 1,300 PHP (about $23), which included transportation, lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and an incredible day exploring the surrounding islands.
Our tour took us to several pristine snorkeling spots, where we swam alongside vibrant coral reefs, spotted tropical fish, and even had the chance to see sea turtles up close. We also stopped at a stunning sandbar in the middle of the ocean, where starfish dotted the shallow waters, creating an almost surreal landscape.
Another highlight was visiting a remote island, where our boat crew prepared an incredible lunch of freshly grilled seafood, vegetables, and tropical fruits, all beautifully arranged and cut in ways I’ve never seen before. The day ended with some local rum and coke provided by the staff, making for a fun and social experience with both fellow travelers and the friendly locals who ran the tour. If you have a free day in Port Barton, I highly recommend booking an island-hopping trip—it’s an unforgettable way to see the area’s raw beauty, and tap into your snorkeling side.
Why You Should Visit Port Barton
Port Barton may not have the same level of fame as El Nido or Coron, or even other islands in the Philippines, but that’s exactly why it’s worth visiting. The town exudes a unique charm that’s hard to find elsewhere—a perfect balance of natural beauty, local culture, and tranquility. Whether you spend your days lounging on the beach with a book, hiking through the jungle, or island hopping to remote islands, you’ll find that Port Barton offers a little slice of paradise at a fraction of the cost and chaos of more touristy destinations.
Beyond its breathtaking scenery, the town is home to some fantastic restaurants serving a mix of Filipino, Italian, Spanish, and fresh seafood dishes. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it easy to meet fellow travelers or simply enjoy the laid-back island lifestyle.
Logistically, Port Barton is easy to reach, located just a 2.5-hour drive from Puerto Princesa and about two hours from El Nido, making it a convenient stop between the two. If you’re flying into El Nido, it’s well worth taking a few days to venture south before returning for your flight out.
If you’re looking for an underrated, peaceful destination in the Philippines where you can truly disconnect and soak up the beauty of nature, Port Barton is the place to be.
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