Port Barton, Palawan, is a hidden gem in the Philippines, boasting pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for a tropical getaway. One of the best ways to explore the natural beauty of this coastal paradise is through island hopping. In this ultimate guide, we’ll take you on a virtual journey through the enchanting islands of Port Barton and provide you with all the information you need for an unforgettable island-hopping adventure in Port Barton, Palawan.

Read: Getting Here: All About Flying in the Philippines

Getting to Port Barton

Before you embark on your island-hopping expedition, you’ll need to get to Port Barton. The easiest way is to fly into Puerto Princesa International Airport and then take a minivan from Puerto Princesa to Port Barton. Make sure to book your transportation in advance to avoid any hassles.

How to Choose the Right Port Barton Island Hopping Tour?

Port Barton offers several island-hopping tours, each with its unique highlights. Here are some popular options. Port Barton Island Hopping rate starts from P1200 per person (inclusive of lunch, masks and miscellaneous fees). If you’re going to choose only one of these, I suggest Tour A because it’s the most popular. Island hopping starts at 9AM to 4PM.

It’s also possible to avail of a private tour, inclusive of lunch, masks and miscellaneous fees. Rates are as follows: P5000 for 2 pax / P7000 for 3-5 pax, additional P1300 per person.

TOUR NAME	TOUR INFORMATION	BOOK TOUR
Tour A: White Beach Paradise	Twin Reef, Turtle Spot, Inaladelan Island, Smart Island, Starfish Island	BOOK HERE
Tour B (Lagoon Exploration):	Paradise Island, Exotic Island, Sanctuary Reef, Albaguin Village, Starfish Island	BOOK HERE
Tour C: Underwater Wonders	Lagoon Reef, Turtle Place, Fantastic Reef, Twin Reef , Star Fish Maxima Paradise	BOOK HERE

Tour A: White Beach Paradise

This tour takes you to pristine white sand beaches like Inaladelan Island (also known as “German Island”) and Exotic Island. Snorkeling opportunities abound, with vibrant coral reefs and marine life to discover.

Tour B: Lagoon Exploration

Tour B focuses on exploring hidden lagoons, including the stunning Twin Reef and Lagoon and Paradise Island. Kayaking and swimming in the emerald waters are must-do activities.

Tour C: Underwater Wonders

If you’re a fan of snorkeling and diving, Tour C is perfect for you. It includes stops at fantastic snorkeling spots like Aquarium Reef and Cathedral Cave, where you can swim among colorful fish and coral formations.

There are also other tours that you can in Port Barton but the top 3 choices above are the most popular. These tours can also be booked at your hostel or hotel in Port Barton.

What to Pack for a Port Barton Island Hopping Tour

To make the most of your island-hopping experience, pack the following essentials:

• Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the tropical sun.
• Swimwear: Don’t forget your swimsuit and snorkeling gear.
• Waterproof Camera: Capture the mesmerizing underwater world.
• Water and Snacks: Stay hydrated and energized during the tours.
• Cash: Some remote islands may not have ATMs, so bring enough cash.

Island Etiquette (Do’s and Dont’s)

While exploring these pristine islands, it’s crucial to respect the environment and local communities. Follow these guidelines:

• Leave No Trace: Take your trash with you and dispose of it properly.
• Respect Wildlife: Avoid disturbing marine life and nesting birds.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Be mindful of local customs and traditions.
• Support Local Businesses: Buy souvenirs or enjoy a meal at local eateries.

Safety Tips

Your safety is paramount during island hopping. Follow these safety precautions:

• Wear a Life Jacket: If you’re not a strong swimmer, wear a life jacket while snorkeling.
• Stay Hydrated: The tropical heat can be intense, so drink plenty of water.
• Listen to Guides: Pay attention to your tour guides’ instructions for a safe experience.
• Check Weather Conditions: Be aware of weather forecasts, and avoid island hopping during rough seas.

Capturing Memories

Don’t forget to capture the breathtaking beauty of Port Barton. Whether you’re using a smartphone or a professional camera, this paradise offers countless photo opportunities. Sunsets, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery make for stunning backdrops.

Conclusion

Port Barton, Palawan, is a tropical paradise that promises unforgettable island-hopping adventures. From exploring hidden lagoons to snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, this destination offers a wealth of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Remember to respect the environment, follow safety guidelines, and create lasting memories of your island-hopping journey.

From Port Barton, you may also continue to travel to El Nido. This gets you to the next best destination in Palawan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is island hopping in Port Barton suitable for families with children?
   • Yes, there are family-friendly tours that cater to all age groups, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
2. Are there vegetarian or vegan food options available during the island-hopping tours?
   • Most tour operators offer vegetarian and vegan meal options upon prior request, so be sure to inform them of your dietary preferences.
3. What is the best time of year to visit Port Barton for island hopping?
   • The best time is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to May, ensuring calm seas and sunny weather.
4. Do I need to be an experienced swimmer to enjoy the island-hopping tours?
   • No, you don’t need to be an experienced swimmer. Life jackets are available, and you can enjoy snorkeling with guidance from your tour operators.
5. Can I book island-hopping tours in advance, or should I do it upon arrival in Port Barton?
   • It’s advisable to book your island-hopping tours in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.

So, get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of Port Barton’s islands and create memories that will last a lifetime!

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Don’t know how to start planning your Philippines trip? You can start here.

Read all our travel planning articles about Palawan here.

GO AROUND PHILIPPINES USEFUL TIPS AND LINKS
BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS To travel around the Philippines, there are 3 local commercial airlines. Cebu Pacific Air, AirAsia and Philippine Airlines. Smaller airlines called AirSwift (El Nido, Boracay) and Royal Air also fly to limited destinations. Book your local flights here. For international flights, I found Kiwi and Trip.com have cheaper flight options to the Philippines.
BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION There are many choices of hotels, hostels, apartments and guesthouses to stay in the Philippines. Book through AGODA for the cheapest options and Booking.com. I also use Hotelscombined to see all prices from different websites to choose from.
BOOK YOUR BUS/FERRY/VAN/CAR The Philippines can be difficult to go around because many buses, ferries and even private vehicles are offline. The best websites to book them are through Bookaway.com and 12GoAsia – they have many partners in different destinations and you can purchase tickets online. Car rentals are also available for you to choose from here.
BOOK YOUR PACKAGE TOURS If you don’t know where to go and just want a hassle free trip to the Philippines, you can find package trips to different destinations with Klook – I recommend them for local tours and activities or Get Your Guide.
DON’T FORGET YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE
It is very important to be safe and ready whenever accidents happen, especially in the Philippines where some places don’t have quality hospitals and clinics. I use Safety Wings for whenever I travel in the Philippines or abroad.
Have you got any questions about traveling to the Philippines? Join our Philippines Travel Planning FB Page to get your answers. Don’t know how to start planning your Philippines trip? You can start here.