From Puerto Princesa: Port Barton & Island Hopping Day Trip

Experience a Full Day of Island-Hopping from Puerto Princesa to Port Barton

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and explore some of Palawan’s lesser-visited but stunning spots, the Puerto Princesa: Port Barton & Island Hopping Day Trip is worth considering. For around $93, you get a 15-hour adventure that promises visits to up to four islands, snorkeling in vibrant reefs, and the chance to swim with wild sea turtles—experiences that truly showcase the natural beauty of this part of the Philippines.

What we love about this tour is the intimate feel of Port Barton, which remains quite unspoiled and quiet compared to more popular destinations. Another highlight is the inclusive nature of the trip—snorkeling gear, a delicious local BBQ lunch, and comfortable transport make for a hassle-free day.

However, it’s a long day—expect around four hours of driving each way—and that might be a challenge for travelers with young children or those sensitive to long travel times. Still, if you’re eager for authentic, natural experiences and don’t mind the early start, this tour caters well to curious explorers who want a taste of Palawan’s underwater world and island serenity.

This trip suits travelers who appreciate nature, are comfortable with a full-day excursion, and enjoy snorkeling and wildlife encounters. If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic escape with friendly guides, this tour can be a great choice.

Key Points

• Unspoiled Nature: Discover the quiet beauty of Port Barton, away from crowded tourist hubs.
• Marine Life: Snorkel at vibrant reefs and possibly swim with wild sea turtles.
• Multiple Islands: Visit up to four islands, each with unique features like starfish colonies or coral reefs.
• Inclusive Supplies: Snorkeling gear, life vests, and local-style BBQ lunch are all included, making logistics easier.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vans and boat transfers ensure your journey is smooth, despite the early start.
• Family Friendly: Best suited for ages 8 and above due to the long day and travel time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting the Day: Early Pickup and Long Drive

The tour begins with an early pickup from your Puerto Princesa hotel around 5 AM. While that’s quite a start—no one likes to wake up at dawn on vacation—this timing allows for a full day of exploration. The four-hour drive to Port Barton is a highlight in itself; the route is scenic but can be quite lively, with the van bouncing along winding roads. We appreciated the air conditioning and the professionalism of the guides, who kept us comfortable and informed.

For those who dislike long drives, it’s worth noting that this is a substantial part of the trip. However, the scenery and the anticipation of what’s to come make it easier. Plus, the guides often share interesting tidbits about Palawan’s history and environment, adding value to the journey.

Meeting Your Guide and Gear Setup

Upon arrival at the wharf, you’ll meet your guide—often friendly and full of local knowledge—and receive your snorkeling gear and life vests. Expect to be briefed on safety and the day’s schedule. The guides are generally praised for their helpfulness and professionalism, making even first-time snorkelers feel comfortable.

Exploring Port Barton: A Natural Paradise

Port Barton itself is a small fishing community that feels authentic and relaxed. Unlike the busy tourist spots of El Nido or Coron, Port Barton offers a quieter, more personal experience with nature. We loved the way the tour enabled us to see this quiet corner of Palawan and appreciate its unspoiled charm.

The first snorkeling stop is typically Turtle Spot, where you have a good chance to see wild sea turtles swimming in their natural habitat. As Lena mentioned in her review, the coral reefs are absolutely beautiful, and the marine life is vibrant. While sightings are not guaranteed, the opportunity to swim alongside these gentle creatures is a highlight many travelers cherish.

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Island Hopping: Four Stops for Snorkeling and Relaxation

The itinerary usually includes visits to Exotic or Maxima Island—depending on weather conditions—Twin Reef, and Starfish Island. Each offers something unique:

• Exotic or Maxima Island: Known for soft white sands and clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and relaxing after snorkeling.
• Twin Reef: A vibrant coral reef with plenty of marine life, ideal for snorkelers wanting to see colorful fish and coral formations.
• Starfish Island: As the name suggests, this tiny island hosts dozens of starfish, making it a fun photo opportunity and a chance to get close to marine wildlife.

We appreciated the flexibility of the guides, who seemed mindful of the weather and sea conditions, adjusting stops as needed. The reef snorkeling was praised in reviews, with Andrew calling the coral reefs “absolutely beautiful”, confirming the quality of marine life you can expect.

Lunch: Local Style BBQ on a Beach

Midway through the day, you’ll enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch served on one of the islands—think grilled seafood, pork, rice, and fresh fruit. Lena described the meal as “amazing,” highlighting how good food can elevate a day trip. The local style BBQ provides not just sustenance but a taste of Filipino flavors in a rustic, scenic setting.

Final Stop: Starfish Island

The last stop is often Starfish Island, where you can see starfish everywhere and take photos with these fascinating creatures. It’s a playful, relaxed spot to wind down the day before heading back. Many reviewers mention how fun and memorable this part is, especially for families or travelers who like to interact with marine life up close.

The Return Journey: Long but Scenic

The drive back to Puerto Princesa is approximately four hours; you’ll arrive around 9 PM. While tiring, the guides often keep the mood lively, sharing stories and answering questions. You’ll be tired but fulfilled after a day packed with natural wonders.

Is This Tour Worth It? Analyzing the Value

At $93 per person, this tour offers a lot—multiple snorkeling stops, a full day of exploring, and all necessary gear included. The inclusion of entrance fees and lunch simplifies planning, saving you from extra costs or hassle.

The long travel time might seem daunting, but it’s a small price for access to less-visited, pristine locations where you can truly enjoy nature. The reviews reflect high satisfaction, especially for the guides’ friendliness, the coral reefs’ beauty, and the delicious food.

While it’s not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues due to the long day and driving, most active travelers or families with older kids will find this an enriching experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want an authentic, nature-centered experience and enjoy snorkel adventures. If you like discovering quiet spots like Port Barton and appreciate wildlife encounters—especially with sea turtles—this will suit you well. It’s also a good pick if you enjoy a relaxed beach environment and local Filipino cuisine.

On the flip side, those seeking a quick, low-effort trip or with very young children might find the long day too much. Also, if you’re not comfortable with snorkeling or long drives, you might prefer different options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes free pickup and drop-off within 15 kilometers of Puerto Princesa City Airport. For stays farther out, you can arrange a private transfer for an extra fee.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, snacks, and cash for extras. It’s recommended to pack light but include essentials to stay comfortable during the day.

How long is the drive?
The drive from Puerto Princesa to Port Barton takes about four hours each way. It’s a long journey, but scenic and well-organized.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment and life vests are included in the tour. Guides will fit you with gear and give safety instructions.

Can I see sea turtles?
There’s a good chance to spot wild sea turtles at Turtle Spot, but sightings aren’t guaranteed. The opportunity to swim with them is part of the fun.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for children aged 8 and above, mainly due to the length of the trip. Always consider your child’s comfort with long travel and water activities.

What’s the lunch like?
A local style BBQ featuring grilled seafood and pork is served, which reviewers find delicious and a highlight of the day.

What about environmental fees?
Environmental fees are not included, so you might need to pay these on-site if applicable.

How many islands are visited?
Up to four islands and snorkeling spots make this a comprehensive tour, with diverse scenery and marine environments.

What if the weather is bad?
The guide may adjust stops depending on weather conditions, but the tour generally proceeds unless conditions are unsafe.

Final Thoughts

The Puerto Princesa: Port Barton & Island Hopping Day Trip offers an authentic and relaxing way to experience Palawan’s underwater marvels and serene islands. With friendly guides, beautiful reefs, and a chance to see turtles in their natural habitat, it’s a memorable outing for those seeking a day immersed in nature’s quiet beauty.

The long drive might be a slight hurdle, but the trip’s inclusions and the chance to explore unspoiled islands make it a worthwhile investment. It’s especially suited for active travelers and families who value genuine wildlife encounters, scenic beaches, and delicious local food.

If you’re after a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic local flavor, this tour stands out as a highly recommended choice—just be prepared for a full day and an early start.

You can check availability for your dates here: