Balabac Island Hopping with Full Board Meals offers an adventurous escape into some of the Philippines’ least touched islands. Priced at $422 per person, this tour covers three days of exploring stunning beaches, colorful reefs, and dramatic underwater cliffs, plus a night camping in tents. It’s perfect for travelers craving a low-key, authentic experience far from crowds and luxury hotels.
What we love most is how the tour showcases untouched shorelines—from Onok Island’s pristine white sands to Patawan Island’s vibrant reefs. Also, the chance to stargaze with minimal light pollution makes this an evening highlight. On the flip side, the long 5-7 hour travel from Puerto Princesa can be a bit taxing, especially for those who prefer quick getaways. This experience appeals best to laid-back travelers who cherish natural beauty, enjoy snorkeling, and are comfortable sharing simple accommodations and rougher boat rides.
If you’re the type who values authentic, low-key adventures over luxury, this trip is a good match. It’s also ideal if you’re traveling alone and want to connect with like-minded explorers. Just be prepared for a somewhat unpolished organization and minimal comforts—this is all about nature and genuine encounters, not fancy amenities or high-end hotels.
Key Points
- Unspoiled beauty: The islands offer pristine beaches and untouched landscapes.
- Authentic island-hopping: Experience local culture, marine life, and natural scenery with skilled guides.
- Simple accommodations: Includes camping tents and shared rooms—no luxury hotel stays.
- Long travel time: Expect 5-7 hours from Puerto Princesa, so pack patience.
- Snorkeling highlights: Encounter sea turtles, giant clams, and coral reefs at multiple spots.
- Low light pollution: Ideal for stargazing on clear nights.
In-Depth Review of the Balabac Island Hopping Tour
Getting There and Logistics
Starting from Puerto Princesa, you’ll face a 5-7 hour overland journey to the port of Buliluyan. This long drive is unavoidable but offers a chance to see the rural side of Palawan—think small villages, open fields, and occasional glimpses of local life. Once at Buliluyan, you’ll hop onto a public speedboat that whisks you to Balabac, setting the tone for an adventure that’s more about raw beauty than luxury.
The tour includes roundtrip van transfer within Puerto Princesa and a public speedboat transfer, both of which are straightforward but sometimes crowded during peak season. The boat ride is often on a motorized outrigger, offering a more authentic local experience, but be prepared for small spaces and potential motion.
Accommodations and Meals
For lodging, expect a mix of tent camping (shared with one other person) and air-conditioned rooms in town. The tents are basic, with no mention of luxury, but they provide a fun, communal outdoor experience. The town rooms are shared and modest, with shared bathrooms.
Meals are included during land and sea days, featuring lunches set against ocean vistas and hearty dinners. The food appears to be satisfying, with reviews noting the “scrumptious feast” and overall good quality, especially considering the remote setting. There’s a lite breakfast on the last day, perfect for a quick start before heading home.
What to Expect on the Island Hopping
This tour’s core is three days of island hopping, with highlights including:
- Onok Island: Known for its white sand beaches and snorkeling with sea turtles. The shallow waters at Onok make it a safe and fun spot for snorkelers of all levels, especially beginners. The extensive wooden boardwalk adds charm, and the shallow reef creates a surreal experience of floating alongside turtles.
- Onok Sea Wall: A dramatic underwater cliff where corals, schools of tropical fish, and sponges thrive. Floating along the edge offers a breathtaking view of the reef’s drop-off, perfect for snorkelers seeking a sense of adventure.
- Giant Clam Dive Spot: A rare chance to see impressive giant clams—some up to 1.2 meters long and weighing over 200 kg. As one reviewer pointed out, this is a truly unique experience to observe these marine giants in their natural habitat.
- Patawan Island: Often overlooked, but just as beautiful as the more famous spots, with coral reefs and vibrant marine life. Its dolphin-shaped silhouette adds a whimsical touch to your island list.
- Bugsuk Island (Punta Sebaring Beach): Offers untouched beaches and peaceful surroundings, perfect for relaxing away from crowds. It’s a rare gem for those who seek serenity.
- Mansalangan Sandbar: A 360-degree vantage point for panoramic ocean views—great for photos, as the endless horizon stretches in all directions.
- Siksican Island: Known for its powdery white sands and a quiet atmosphere, ideal for sunbathing and unwinding.
- Candaraman Island: Features lush forests and vibrant coral reefs. It’s a haven for photographers and nature lovers, with a chance to encounter local bird species and marine life like clownfish and angelfish.
- Balabac Parula Lighthouse: Located on a hilltop, this is a fantastic spot for sunset viewing, offering sweeping views of the strait and nearby islands.
Authentic Experiences and Challenges
The tour shines in its genuine, unspoiled environment. As one guest noted, “The islands and the beaches were very beautiful,” and another emphasized how “the place is beautiful and without comforts,” which is exactly what appeals to those seeking an authentic escape.
However, reviews do mention some organizational hiccups and logistical inconveniences. One traveler expressed frustration over shared rooms with strangers and luggage storage limitations, which could be uncomfortable for some. The boat’s condition, notably during rain, has also been a concern, with one noting that their boat was full of water, leading to discomfort and sickness.
Marine Encounters and Snorkeling
Expect to see colorful corals, schools of tropical fish, and even sea turtles. The Onok Sea Wall is especially stunning, providing a spectacular view of marine life teeming in the shallow reefs. The giant clam spot offers a rare, up-close look at these impressive invertebrates—an experience that few others in the region can match.
Environmental and Practical Tips
- Bring biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent to protect the fragile environment.
- Pack change of clothes, especially since boats can be wet or muddy.
- Cash is essential for small purchases or tips, as there are limited ATM options.
- Be prepared for simple amenities; don’t expect luxury accommodations or fine dining.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is best suited for laid-back, low-key travelers who are comfortable with rougher logistics. It appeals most to nature lovers and thalassophiles—those who find joy in pristine beaches, snorkeling, and unspoiled landscapes. If you’re seeking peace, quiet, and authentic encounters with the local islands and cultures, you’ll find this tour fulfilling.
On the other hand, if you prioritize comfort, luxury, or well-organized itineraries, this tour might feel a bit rough around the edges. The reviews suggest that it’s not suited for people over 95 or those requiring wheelchair access.
Planning more time in Puerto Princesa? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?
This island-hopping trip offers a raw, authentic taste of Palawan’s lesser-known gems. The stunning beaches, vibrant reefs, and untouched landscapes make it a captivating experience for those craving genuine nature and cultural connection. It’s a great value considering the three days of boat rides, guided tours, and inclusive meals, especially when you consider the costs of individual travel and boat rentals.
However, it’s not for travelers seeking luxury or perfect organization. The long travel hours, basic accommodations, and occasional logistical hiccups mean you should be comfortable with a low-key, rustic adventure. If you’re flexible, love marine life, and want a peaceful break far from crowds, this trip will leave you with lasting memories of Philippines’ natural beauty.
In summary, this is best for adventurous, relaxed travelers who are eager to connect with the environment and local culture in a setting that’s as authentic as it gets.
FAQ
How long is the travel from Puerto Princesa to Balabac?
Expect a 5 to 7-hour land journey, which takes you through scenic rural Palawan before reaching the port for your boat ride.
What is included in the tour?
The package covers roundtrip van transfer within Puerto Princesa, a public speedboat to Balabac, accommodation (tent and shared rooms), meals during the trip, island-hopping activities, entrance and environmental fees, life vests, and a first aid kit.
Are there any accommodations before or after the tour?
No. You’ll need to arrange your own stay in Puerto Princesa before and after the trip, as the tour covers only the island adventure.
What should I bring?
Bring change of clothes, camera, biodegradable sunscreen, flip-flops, cash, insect repellent, and hand sanitizer. Avoid bringing valuables or large luggage, as storage options are limited.
Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, solo travelers are automatically booked into shared tents and rooms, making it a good choice for meeting other like-minded explorers.
What are the main highlights of the island hopping?
Expect to see Onok Island’s white beaches and sea turtles, underwater cliffs at Onok Sea Wall, giant clams, beautiful reefs at Patawan Island, and peaceful spots like Bugsuk Island and Mansalangan Sandbar. Sunset at the Balabac Lighthouse is also a special moment.
Are the activities suitable for children or less experienced snorkelers?
Yes, shallow reef areas like Onok Island are perfect for beginners. However, always supervise children closely, and be prepared for basic amenities and boat rides.
This tour delivers a memorable taste of the Philippines’ natural wonders, perfect for relaxed travelers eager to explore pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. It’s an adventure that emphasizes authenticity over luxury, offering genuine encounters with some of Palawan’s most beautiful but less visited islands.
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