Beach hopping in Puerto Princesa City

Beach hopping in Puerto Princesa City: A Detailed Review

Imagine spending a day on the beautiful beaches of Puerto Princesa, without even leaving the city limits. This beach hopping tour takes you to two stunning spots along the west coast, Nagtabon Beach and Pakpak-Lauin, offering a perfect escape for anyone craving sun, sand, and sea. Priced at $100 per person, and lasting around 6 to 8 hours, this private tour promises a laid-back day, with pickup included—making it convenient and hassle-free.

We especially appreciate that this tour shows a genuine slice of rural living in Puerto Princesa. Each beach has its unique charm, from the lively waves at Nagtabon to the serene, untouched vibe at Pakpak-Lauin. Plus, lunch is included, and you get to choose your favorite beach for the meal—a thoughtful touch that enhances the experience.

The guide we met, Echo, made the day truly memorable—knowledgeable, friendly, and full of great tips. One thing to keep in mind: this is a private tour, so you get an intimate experience, away from crowded group buses. The only real consideration? The drive to Pakpak-Lauin takes about 40 minutes, so be prepared for some travel time if you want to maximize your beach time.

This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day away from the hustle, especially those who enjoy beach lounging, swimming, and scenic views. Perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a quiet, scenic retreat with a personal touch.

Key Points

• Private experience: Only your group participates, ensuring a personalized day.
• Two diverse beaches: Nagtabon offers lively waves, while Pakpak-Lauin provides seclusion.
• Included lunch: Dine at your preferred beach, adding convenience and a local touch.
• Authentic rural vibe: Both beaches showcase the simple, rural side of Puerto Princesa.
• Flexible scheduling: 6-8 hours, with pickup included, allows for a relaxed pace.
• Excellent reviews: High praise for guides and scenery, with a perfect 5-star rating.

The Details of the Beach Hopping Tour

An Easy Escape to Puerto Princesa’s West Coast

This beach hopping tour fits comfortably into a single day, giving you roughly three hours at each beach. The experience begins with a pickup from your hotel, which makes travel smooth and straightforward. Your guide will be your point person, sharing insights about the local area and ensuring your day runs seamlessly.

The price of $100 per person covers transportation, entrance fees, and lunch, making it a solid value considering the personalized experience. For a relaxed day of swimming, sunbathing, and listening to the waves, it’s an easy choice—especially when you compare it to the costs of multiple individual excursions or renting a car.

Nagtabon Beach: A Classic Filipino Beach

Your first stop, Nagtabon, is located in Bargy, Bacungan. It’s a popular local favorite, especially for those who want to just relax and get into the water. The beach has soft sand and waves suitable for swimming, making it ideal for families or anyone who loves to float or splash around. With admission included, you’ll find yourself immersed quickly into the beach vibe.

Many visitors appreciate Nagtabon’s casual atmosphere—no pretensions, just natural beauty. A reviewer praised it as a place to “while away the day and swim on the waves,” capturing its laid-back appeal. The three hours allotted here give plenty of time to settle in, soak up some sun, and take a stroll along the shore.

Pakpak-Lauin: The Hidden Gem

The second stop, Pakpak-Lauin, is an untouched and quiet beach about a 40-minute drive from the city center. Unlike Nagtabon, it offers a more secluded setting, free from mobile signals—perfect for disconnecting and unwinding. The absence of cell service is deliberate; it allows visitors to truly unwind without distractions.

This location is ideal if you’re seeking privacy and tranquility. The admission fee is included, and the roughly three hours here give you enough time to relax, swim, or just enjoy the views in peace. The untouched nature of this beach makes it feel like a secret paradise, perfect for those who want to escape the crowd.

The Lunch Experience

A highlight of this tour is the lunch, which is served at the beach of your choice. This flexibility means you can choose your preferred spot—whether Nagtabon or Pakpak-Lauin—and enjoy your meal with a view. While the menu isn’t specified, the inclusion of lunch adds significant value, saving you time and hassle during the day. Many reviews highlight how delicious food and great tapas added to the overall enjoyment, emphasizing the thoughtful touches that make this tour stand out.

The Guide and Overall Experience

Guests consistently praise guides like Echo, who make the day special and informative. According to a reviewer, the guide helped them learn a lot, see beautiful sights, and enjoy delicious food. The personalized attention makes the experience feel more like a day out with a knowledgeable friend than a standard tour.

The 5-star rating from a traveler highlights the authenticity, scenery, and professionalism that define this experience. The ease of transportation, combined with the flexibility of timing and the private nature of the tour, makes for a smooth and enjoyable day.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

One thing to consider is the driving time to Pakpak-Lauin—about 40 minutes each way—which means some travelers might prefer a longer stay at each beach if they’re eager to explore more. Also, since the tour is weather-dependent, poor weather might lead to cancellations or rescheduling. Luckily, the provider offers full refunds if weather conditions disrupt your plans.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This beach hopping experience is perfect for relaxed travelers who want scenic, quiet beaches without the hassle of planning logistics. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate authentic local scenery and don’t mind a bit of travel time. If your idea of a vacation includes swimming, sunbathing, and disconnecting, this tour hits the spot.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all age groups?
Yes, most travelers can participate, making it a family-friendly activity, especially for those who enjoy beach days.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, including transportation, beach time, and lunch.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, pickup is included, simplifying your day from start to finish.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers transportation, admission to both beaches, and lunch at your preferred beach.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, full refunds are available if the tour is canceled due to bad weather.

Are there group discounts?
Yes, the tour offers group discounts, making it more affordable if you are traveling with friends or family.

Final Thoughts

This beach hopping tour in Puerto Princesa offers an authentic and relaxed way to enjoy the west coast’s natural beauty. From the lively waves of Nagtabon to the tranquil sands of Pakpak-Lauin, you’ll get a genuine feel for local beach life. The personalized, private setup and the knowledgeable guides make it a standout choice for those seeking a stress-free, scenic day.

If your priority is unplugging, enjoying good food, and soaking in scenic views, this tour delivers in spades. The inclusion of lunch and the flexible, private nature of the experience make it excellent value for money. While the drive to Pakpak-Lauin might be a consideration for some, the payoff is two very different, beautiful beaches that showcase the raw, natural charm of Puerto Princesa’s coast.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a quiet, scenic escape that’s easy to organize, memorable, and rich in authentic Filipino beach vibes. If you’re after a day of relaxation without the crowds, this beach hop will leave you with lasting memories of Puerto Princesa’s stunning west coast.