This calm fishing village on Palawan's coast has a 2km beach where locals bring in fresh catch each morning. Nearby waters have sea turtles, and hiking trails lead to Pamuayan Falls.
Port Barton is a small fishing village on Palawan's northwest coast. Along its 2-kilometer beach, you'll find local fishermen hauling in their morning catch while travelers eat breakfast at wooden beachfront restaurants. Swim with sea turtles at Twin Reef, cool off in the clear pool beneath Pamuayan Falls, or join the locals for fresh grilled fish at the evening market.
Getting to Port Barton
You can reach Port Barton by van from Puerto Princesa (2.5 hours) or El Nido (4 hours). The road is now mostly paved, making the journey smoother than in previous years. Vans depart from Puerto Princesa at 8am, 1pm, and 5pm daily, and you'll need to book your seat in advance during high season from December to May.
Main Beach and Village Life
The 2-kilometer beach curves in a crescent shape, with tall coconut palms creating patches of shade throughout the day. Each morning, wooden fishing boats line the shore as fishermen sort their catch. The village spreads inland with sandy paths connecting wooden homes, small convenience stores, and a central market where farmers sell mangoes, bananas, and fresh vegetables.
Island Hopping and Marine Life
Join a day trip to Twin Reef, where green turtles and hawksbill turtles swim in 3-4 meter deep waters. The boats then head to German Island, with its 500-meter white sand beach and coral reefs 10 meters from shore. Most tours end at the Starfish sandbar, a shallow area where you can spot blue, red, and orange starfish in knee-deep water.
Exploring the Waterfalls
The trail to Pamuayan Falls starts at the village's eastern edge. Walk 4.2 kilometers through rice paddies and forest to reach the falls, which takes about one hour each way. The waterfall drops into a 3-meter deep pool surrounded by large boulders. For a longer hike, continue 5 kilometers to Bigaho Falls, where water cascades down a 15-meter rock face into a wide swimming area.
Moving Around Port Barton
You can walk between most points in the village within 10 minutes. The beach road connects the main accommodations, restaurants, and small shops. To reach White Beach or the waterfalls, rent a motorbike from shops near the village center or arrange transport with local drivers.
Daily Life in Port Barton
Find two ATMs near the central market, but bring backup cash as machines can run empty. Power runs from 6pm to 6am in some areas, while beachfront properties often have 24-hour electricity. The medical center handles basic health needs and is open Monday through Saturday. Mobile phones work best near the beach, and internet speeds average 3Mbps.
