Port Barton: Island Hopping with Lunch and Hotel Transfer

Planning a trip to Palawan? If you’re craving a peaceful escape from crowded tourist spots, the Port Barton Island Hopping Tour might just become your favorite day. Priced at $51 per person, this full-day adventure takes you through some of the area’s most beautiful spots—think crystal-clear waters, untouched beaches, and lively coral reefs—plus the chance to swim alongside sea turtles. The tour lasts from around 8 or 9 in the morning until about 5 in the evening, making it a manageable yet immersive taste of what this laid-back coastal town has to offer.

What really draws us in is the focus on authentic, natural experiences. We loved the way this tour combines relaxation with adventure—relaxing on pristine beaches like Maxima Island, then snorkeling among vibrant corals and marine life. The small group size and knowledgeable guides help keep things personal and fun. Plus, the included buffet lunch, featuring fresh seafood and seasonal fruits, is a highlight that ensures you’re well-fed after a morning in the sun.

One thing to consider is the environmental fee (P200) payable on-site, which is common for eco-tourism activities in the Philippines. Also, if you’re hoping for access to water sports beyond snorkeling—like kayaking—you’ll need to arrange those separately. This tour suits travelers who love natural beauty, appreciate good guides, and want a well-rounded day in an untouched paradise.

If you’re looking for a relaxed yet engaging experience that emphasizes genuine scenery and marine encounters, this tour is a great pick. It’s especially ideal for those who want to spend the day exploring rather than rushing from one crowded tourist trap to another.

Key Points

• Beautiful, untouched beaches perfect for relaxing and taking photos
• Snorkeling with sea turtles and vibrant reefs, ideal for marine lovers
• Includes a delicious buffet lunch with fresh seafood and seasonal fruits
• Comfortable boat and local guides add value and insider knowledge
• Eco-fee (P200) payable on-site, common for environmental conservation
• Tours are available daily, but booking early guarantees your spot

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This island hopping adventure begins with pickup from your hotel within Port Barton, typically between 8 and 9 in the morning. The tour is operated by KKJ TRAVEL SERVICES and includes a well-maintained boat, an experienced guide, and all the essentials like life vests and a first-aid kit. The small group size (generally around 10-20 people) keeps the experience intimate and allows for spontaneous questions or photo requests, as one happy reviewer notes, “Very helpful with taking the photos.”

Maxima Island Beach

Your first stop is Maxima Island Beach, a place that lives up to its name with an immaculate shoreline and calm waters. Here, you can simply unwind on the soft sand or paddle in the shallow waters. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a peaceful morning away from the crowds, and the clear waters make it ideal for a quick swim or to just dip your toes in the sea.

Paradise Island

Next is Paradise Island, a true retreat with untouched beaches and a calm environment. It’s the kind of place where you can forget about time, soak in the scenery, and enjoy the serenity. One reviewer humorously mentions the need for toilet facilities—which aren’t currently available on this island—so plan accordingly.

Sandbar/Starfish Place

A highlight for many is the Sandbar, known locally as Starfish Place. As the name suggests, you might see starfish in shallow waters—great for photography or just marveling at these gentle creatures. This stop is especially popular among families and those keen on capturing unique photos.

More Great Tours Nearby

Twin Reef and Fantastic Reef

For snorkelers, Twin Reef and Fantastic Reef are standouts. They feature lively coral ecosystems and a diverse marine life, from colorful fish to tiny critters hiding in the reefs. The reefs are well preserved, and the waters are generally clear, so you’ll get great views beneath the surface. One traveler emphasized, “The places we visited were well chosen,” appreciating the guides’ selections.

Turtle Spot

The tour’s best-known element? Snorkeling alongside sea turtles. It’s a genuinely memorable experience, and many guests find it one of the most rewarding parts of their day. The guides are experienced and helpful, making sure everyone’s comfortable and safe while swimming with these gentle marine creatures.

Dining and Comfort

The buffet lunch is more than just an afterthought. It features grilled meats, fresh seafood, seasonal fruits, rice, and drinks, providing enough fuel to keep you energized for the rest of the day’s activities. The review from Raymond mentions “the fruit display” as a highlight, and the music and jovial spirit of the crew add a friendly vibe to the experience.

Transport and Logistics

The secure boat and local guides are key to making this a smooth experience. The boat rides are comfortable, and the crew keeps safety a priority. Pickup and drop-off are included within a 2 km radius of your hotel in Port Barton, and the tour departs promptly at 9 a.m. It wraps up around 5 p.m., giving you a full day of exploration without feeling hurried.

Practical Tips

Remember to bring essentials like hat, towel, camera, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash for extras or environmental fees. You might also want to pack a change of clothes and insect repellent. The guides recommend avoiding alcohol and drugs during the tour for safety reasons.

Authentic Experiences and Real Feedback

The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who enhance the trip with local insights and assistance, like helping to take photos, which adds a personal touch. Raymond appreciated the “well-chosen places” and “first-class drinks”, making the day not just scenic but also comfortable.

The other reviewer simply said, “Great experience and crew,” which, considering the small group sizes and attentive guides, reflects the genuine hospitality you’ll encounter.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who enjoy relaxed, natural environments over crowded tourist sites. It’s perfect for marine life enthusiasts, families, or anyone seeking a peaceful day on the water. The inclusion of lunch, transfers, and guided snorkeling makes it a valuable option for those wanting a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic scenery, friendly guides, and a well-organized day, this tour will meet your expectations. Just keep in mind the environmental fee and the fact that certain water activities, like kayaking, are not included.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within a 2 km radius, a buffet lunch, a well-maintained boat, guided snorkeling, life vests, and first aid.

How much does the environmental fee cost?
You’ll pay P200 on site, which helps fund local conservation efforts.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, towel, change of clothes, camera, biodegradable sunscreen, beachwear, cash, insect repellent, and hand sanitizer.

Are water activities like kayaking available?
No, kayaking isn’t included in this tour. If you want to kayak, you’ll need to arrange it separately.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
It’s not suitable for those with mobility challenges, pregnant women, wheelchair users, or anyone over 95. It involves swimming, snorkeling, and boat rides.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour might be postponed or rescheduled if weather conditions threaten safety. The operator will notify you in advance.

What is the tour duration?
It runs from about 8 or 9 a.m. until roughly 5 p.m., offering a full day of island hopping.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Final Thoughts

The Port Barton Island Hopping Tour offers a well-rounded day exploring some of Palawan’s most beautiful and quiet spots. With knowledgeable guides, a delicious buffet, and scenic snorkeling, it balances adventure and relaxation perfectly. The small group setting and focus on authentic experiences make it a worthwhile choice for travelers who want genuine encounters with nature.

If your ideal day involves peaceful beaches, vibrant reefs, and friendly local guides—without the crowds—then this tour will suit you beautifully. It’s especially good if you’re eager to see sea turtles, photograph pristine landscapes, and enjoy a leisurely pace.

However, if you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping water sports or accommodations with extensive facilities, you might want to explore other options. This experience emphasizes the natural beauty and simplicity that make Port Barton a true hidden gem.

This tour offers great value for the money — combining scenic sights, marine encounters, tasty food, and a friendly crew — making it an excellent choice for anyone wanting to experience Palawan’s authentic charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: