Top 9 Activities & Best Things To Do in Port Barton

Planning a trip to Port Barton?

In this guide, I’ll walk you through 9 amazing things to do in Port Barton.

Nestled on Palawan’s western coast, Port Barton is a sleepy beach town still untouched by mass tourism like other destinations in the Philippines.

Port Barton retains its laid-back charm, with pristine beaches, lush jungles, and a back-to-basics island feel.

I spent one week exploring Port Barton and I can confidently say that it is one of the most underrated destinations in the Philippines.

From island-hopping adventures to beachside relaxation, keep reading for 9 incredible things to do in Port Barton!

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Things To Do in Port Barton: Overview

If you don’t have time to read the whole guide, below is a quick summary.

What to do in Port Barton?

Port Barton offers a more laid-back, authentic island experience compared to its northern neighbors.

Rather than a bustling tourist scene, this hidden gem is all about natural beauty—pristine beaches, hidden waterfalls, and vibrant coral reefs.

In stark contrast to El Nido, you can enjoy these Port Barton activities without hoards of tourists – this makes the experience all the more special.

The slower pace is part of the charm – ideal for beach bumming and relaxing before venturing further north.

White Beach

White Beach isn’t just Port Barton’s most popular beach – but one of the most beautiful in the Philippines.

This protected cove boasts powdery white sand, swaying coconut trees, and crystal-clear waters – a true tropical paradise.

And the best part? You won’t have to share it with hoards of tourists.

Thanks to its slightly off-the-beaten-path location, it remains uncrowded, allowing you to soak up the pristine beauty in peace.

The main activities here are sunbathing, snorkeling, and, swimming. As one of the most stunning beaches in Palawan, visiting White Beach is a must.

For full details on how to get there, the entrance fee, and what to expect, you can read my full post here.

Full Post: White Beach Port Barton: Ultimate Travel Guide

Island Hopping

Island hopping is undoubtedly the most popular thing to do in Port Barton.

Just like other destinations in Palawan, the area around Port Barton is littered with vibrant coral reefs, secluded white-sand beaches, and spectacular snorkeling spots.

Unlike El Nido, you won’t be sharing the water with crowds of tourists—here, the reefs and beaches remain pristine and peaceful, and the overall experience is much more authentic.

You can opt for Tour A, B, C, or D depending on what you’re interested in seeing.

Tour A is the most popular and includes –

• Twin Reef
• Turtle Spot
• Paradise Island
• Inaladelan Beach (German Island)
• Fantastic Reef
• Starfish Sandbar

➡️ Skip the hassle and book your island-hopping tour in advance

If you’re a fan of partying, then you cannot miss the Cocorico Boat Party – this is what I did.

As well as exploring all the breathtaking spots above, the boat party includes unlimited drinks, music, and games.

Street Dog Sanctuary

Visiting the only Street Dog Sanctuary in Palawan is another one of the best things to do in Port Barton.

The Street Dog Sanctuary is a non-profit organization that provides food, shelter, and medical care to over 170 dogs and 13 cats.

Located about 15 minutes from town, you can swing by to visit the dogs, learn about their stories, and volunteer some of your time.

Beyond the rewarding experience, the sanctuary also offers breathtaking ocean views.

The dedicated team behind the sanctuary also runs Mojitos, one of the best restaurants in Port Barton.

If you can’t make it to the sanctuary, grabbing a drink or meal at Mojitos is a great way to support the cause.

If you’re interested in visiting the sanctuary, be sure to message them on Facebook to book your visit here

Pamauyan Falls

If you’ve overdosed on vitamin sea and you’re wondering what to do in Port Barton, then Pamauyan Falls is a must-visit spot.

Pamauyan Falls is a secluded jungle waterfall just a few kilometers from Port Barton.

For those who love hiking, the 2-hour trek from town takes you through lush forests and scenic landscapes.

If you prefer a quicker route, you can reach the falls in just 15 minutes by scooter or tricycle.

Whilst these falls do not compare to the turquoise waters of some of the waterfalls in Siquijor, they are great for those searching for a bit of adventure.

Sunset at Itaytay Beach / Port Barton Beach

Any Port Barton itinerary would be incomplete without witnessing the breathing sunset from Itaytay Beach (also known as Port Barton Beach)

Although not comparable to the white sands and turquoise waters of other Port Barton beaches, Itaytay Beach has charm.

Port Barton is perfectly located on the western coast to witness the sunset each night.

Lined with delicious restaurants and bars, enjoying a cocktail and bite to eat whilst the sun goes down is a must (I’d recommend Barton Bistro or Happy Bar).

The convenient location of Itaytay Beach in Port Barton town means it is also a great spot to sunbathe and laze around during the day.

Note: Itaytay Beach, and Port Barton in general, is known for box jellyfish in the water. This is worse in the months of March and April. If you are hoping for a paddle, be sure to check with the locals if the water is safe

Enjoy Port Barton Nightlife

Perhaps surprisingly, Port Barton has some of the best nightlife in Palawan.

This sleepy beach town comes alive when the sun goes down, with beachfront happy hour cocktails to warm up, and DJs and parties to see you into the night.

There are many fantastic bars in Port Barton – think live music, fire shows, booze cruises, and pool parties.

Some of the best bars and Port Barton nightlife spots are –

• Cocorico Hostel – great food, parties every night, boat party, free drinks 7 – 7:30 PM every day
• FLOW Pool Bar & Resto – great food, live music & pool parties
• Native’bo Reggae Bar – live reggae music & cheap drinks
• Moon Bar – worth the walk up the hill, live music, fire shows, amazing view, open until early hours
• Happy Bar – happy hour cocktails, beach-front sunset view

Full Post: Port Barton Nightlife Guide: Top 5 Best Bars

Bigaho Falls

Another one of the best Port Barton activities is exploring Bigaho Falls.

Bigaho Falls can be reached by scooter or by boat. Some island hopping tours include a visit to this waterfall on their itinerary (Tour C).

If you are coming by boat, there is a short 15-minute trek from the beach through a quaint little village before reaching Bigaho Falls.

It is great for a refreshing dip but only really worth it if you are kayaking or exploring that area, as it is a little out of the way.

Note: these are seasonal falls and can sometimes be dried up during the dry season from December – May. Be sure to ask the locals before visiting

Coconut Beach

As the name suggests, Coconut Beach has one of the most stunning coconut-lined shorelines in the Philippines.

With a lush coconut forest behind you and crystal-clear, calm waters ahead, it’s easy to see why this is one of the most picturesque beaches in Palawan.

Just around the corner from White Beach, Coconut Beach remains a hidden gem, far less crowded than its popular neighbor.

Its rustic, tropical charm makes it a must-visit stop on any Port Barton itinerary – there is also an adorable family of pigs giving all the Bahamas vibes.

For more information on how to get there, the entrance fee, and what to expect, you can check out my full post here.

Full Post: Coconut Beach Port Barton: Ultimate Travel Guide

Kayaking

Kayaking is what to do in Port Barton for adventure lovers.

You can rent a kayak from Itaytay Beach for 500 PHP ($9) a day and paddle your way to nearby Coconut Beach or White Beach.

With a kayak, you can also explore some hidden gems, such as Starfish Island or Pamauyan Beach (typically visited as part of island-hopping tours).

Tip: if you stay in Aquarius, there is free use of the kayak

Kayaking is one of the top Port Barton activities and allows you to experience things at your own pace and explore some hidden gems.

Where to stay in Port Barton

Port Barton is certainly not the destination for beachfront resorts and the luxury traveler. The island has a back-to-basics feel; hot water and fast wifi can be hard to come by.

I would suggest staying near the center, as most of the main Port Barton tourist spots and restaurants can be reached on foot.

Cocorico Hostel

The best Port Barton hostel for backpackers & solo travelers.

This is the ultimate social hostel with amazing parties nearly every night. They have a delicious restaurant, as well as their very own boat party.

Prices for dorms start from $17.00 per night.

Aquarius (my top pick)

The best place to stay in Port Barton for couples or groups with a medium budget – this is where I stayed and I could not recommend it more.

All rooms are spacious and modern, with hot showers from solar power and good wifi. This hotel is located minutes from the beach and restaurants.

There is also a shared kitchen equipped with free water and coffee, as well as a terrace area to socialize. There are board games, a dart board, and free use of the kayak.

Prices start from $28.00 per night.

Holiday Suites Port Barton

The best Port Barton accommodation for more luxury travelers.

A choice of family, deluxe, or superior rooms, some offering sweeping views of Itaytay Beach.

This accommodation features a swimming pool, a beach bar, and a delicious restaurant. Staff will be happy to help you organize any island hopping tours.

Good wifi and free breakfast included. Rooms start from $125.00 per night.

How to get to Port Barton

To reach Port Barton, first, you will have to fly to Puerto Princesa.

This is the main airport for the island of Palawan and can be reached from all popular destinations.

After reaching Puerto Princesa, Port Barton is very straightforward to reach.

The most common way is to book a shared mini-van. These depart from Puerto Princesa Airport and pass through Puerto Princesa town, before heading to Port Barton.

🚗 BOOK YOUR PORT BARTON TRANSFER HERE

➡️ For detailed instructions from all popular destinations, check out my full How To Get To Port Barton Guide

FAQs

Is it worth going to Port Barton?

Port Barton is most definitely worth visiting.

Located halfway between Puerto Princesa and El Nido, Port Barton has not experienced the influx of tourism like its more popular neighbors.

This sleepy beach town therefore remains pretty undiscovered and untouched.

You should not expect to share the beaches with hoards of tourists and the island hopping experience feels much more authentic than in El Nido.

If you are looking to get off the beaten path and out of the tourist playground, then you cannot miss this Palawan hidden gem.

How long should you spend in Port Barton?

I would say that 3 – 5 days is the ideal amount on your Port Barton itinerary.

There are many amazing things to do in Port Barton, such as pristine beaches, snorkeling, and waterfalls.

In the modern world, it can be hard to find untouched natural beauty and an atmosphere of tranquility absent of tourists.

Therefore, whilst you can visit the main tourist spots in a couple of days, be sure to leave some extra time to relax and enjoy the slower pace of life.

Must Read: ULTIMATE PORT BARTON TRAVEL GUIDE: Budget & Itinerary

Is Port Barton better than El Nido?

Both Port Barton and El Nido are unmissable destinations when visiting the Philippines.

Comparing them is difficult, as they offer something completely different to the traveler.

The limestone cliffs, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and white sands of El Nido are some of the most spectacular natural landscapes in the world.

As a popular destination, El Nido is well-geared towards tourists.

You will find many world-class resorts, delicious restaurants, buzzing nightlife, as well as many tours and day trips exploring the nearby islands.

Must Read: Top 5 MOST BEAUTIFUL Beaches in El Nido

Port Barton on the other hand has only recently become a popular tourist destination, and the infrastructure is lacking in certain areas.

Whilst more restaurants and hotels pop up each year, Port Barton has not been designed for the tourist. It is a better place to visit if you are looking to understand Filipino daily life better.

The natural surroundings are certainly not as striking as those in El Nido.

However, getting to appreciate such stunning beaches, islands, and coral reefs totally absent of tourists, makes the overall experience much more special.

If you have time, then both Port Barton and El Nido are a must on any Palawan itinerary.

Where to see turtles in Port Barton?

Port Barton is one of the best places in the Philippines to see sea turtles in the wild.

For the best chances of seeing turtles, I’d recommend joining an island-hopping tour.

➡️ Skip the hassle and book your island-hopping tour in advance

Most island-hopping tours include a dedicated “Turtle Spot” where guides take you to areas known for frequent turtle activity.

Can you walk to White Beach from Port Barton?

I had read online that it is possible to walk from Port Barton town to White Beach – however, I had no luck in finding this route myself.

If you follow Itaytay Beach (Port Barton’s main beach) right to the end, there is a pathway that eventually leads you to Coconut Beach.

However, from Coconut Beach, I personally could not find the path to White Beach.

I have read online that the path to White Beach is rough and not suitable for walking – I’d only recommend looking for it if you’re up for a bit of adventure.

Why is Port Barton famous?

Port Barton has been increasing in popularity in recent years as El Nido’s more tranquil younger brother.

It has gained fame for its natural beauty, breathtaking sunsets, and vibrant coral reefs. It provides an authentic glimpse into a beautiful destination not yet overrun by tourism.

The pace of life is much slower and Port Barton’s laidback rustic charm is what attracts backpackers to this destination.

Best Things To Do in Port Barton: Final Thoughts

Well, there you have it! This post has detailed the very best things to do in Port Barton.

From pristine beaches, jungle waterfalls, and vibrant marine life, there is something for every type of traveler.

If you have tried any of these Port Barton activities, I would love to hear from you – reach out to me on Instagram or Pinterest and let me know how it was!

Planning your Philippines trip?

With so many amazing islands to explore, how do you decide where to visit? For inspiration, itinerary ideas, and dream destinations, check out the following –

1-Month Philippines Itinerary – the ideal backpacking route exploring popular destinations & off-the-beaten-path spots

Top 10 Best Places To Visit in the Philippines – your ultimate guide to the best destinations to suit every type of traveler