Port Barton in San Vicente, Palawan has been steadily gaining attention as the quieter, more laid-back alternative to El Nido. With its unpaved streets, calm beachfront, and backpacker-friendly vibe, it’s a destination where days feel slow, sunsets are savored, and conversations with fellow travelers flow as naturally as the sea breeze. On my recent visit, I spent three nights at My Green Hostel, a budget-friendly yet cozy option located just a short walk from Itaytay Beach.
Booking and First Impressions
I booked my stay on Agoda, choosing a Double Room with shared bathroom. The total was ₱3,500 for three nights including taxes. This felt reasonable considering Port Barton’s growing popularity. When I arrived, the property welcomed me with a simple and clean setup. Guests leave footwear outside dorm rooms, adding to the sense of homeliness. Since I had a private room, I could bring in slippers, though I often stayed barefoot, leaning into the hostel’s cozy rules.
The road from the main street to My Green Hostel is unpaved, and after rain, puddles form along the way. It doesn’t turn muddy, just splashy, which added to the small-town charm. Port Barton still holds its fishing village character, resisting the rush of full-scale tourism.
Room Experience
My Double Room was simple but functional. The air-conditioning worked perfectly, ensuring restful sleep after days under the Palawan sun. I appreciated the drying rack provided, which helped with swimwear, rash guards, and towels after island-hopping.
What I found lacking was a table and chair. The room had a bench, but it worked more as a footrest than a luggage spot. Most of my belongings ended up on the floor, which wasn’t ideal. A table would greatly improve convenience, especially for travelers with gadgets or cameras. Still, the overall room experience stayed positive—airy, comfortable, and clean.
Shared Bathrooms: Practical and Clean
Since not all rooms have ensuite bathrooms, I shared facilities with other guests. To my surprise, the setup was efficient. There are four toilets, four showers, and separate sinks, so waiting time was minimal. Toilets came with wooden doors that gave a rustic feel, and the showers had hot water, a welcome comfort after snorkeling or diving.
Bathrooms stayed clean during my stay. Of course, shared spaces depend on guest behavior, but the staff made constant efforts to maintain tidiness throughout the day.
Service That Stands Out
The best part of My Green Hostel was the staff. From check-in, they were warm, approachable, and genuinely helpful. The receptionist helped me book island-hopping tours and even arranged my van transfer to El Nido, saving me a trip to the terminal. She always shared tips on where to eat and what to do around Port Barton.
The hostel accepts both cash and card, though their POS machine wasn’t working during my stay, so I paid in cash. Not a big issue, but it’s good to prepare. The reception also doesn’t operate 24 hours, so guests with late arrivals or early departures should coordinate ahead.
Social Vibes
Many backpackers choose hostels for the social scene, and My Green Hostel delivered through its common area. Wooden tables and lounge spaces created an inviting setup for conversations. Since I visited in lean season, it wasn’t too lively, but I could imagine the energy being much different during peak times.
The hostel serves breakfast, though I opted to explore nearby cafés instead. Having the option on-site still added convenience for those who prefer staying in.
Location and Accessibility
The hostel is on the far end of Port Barton, not directly in the center but still very accessible. A few cafés and eateries are nearby, and reaching the main shops, restaurants, and beachfront activities takes only three to five minutes on foot. It offered just enough distance from the busy spots, making it more peaceful compared to accommodations right in the middle of the village.
My Green Hostel: A Cozy Base in Port Barton
After three nights at My Green Hostel, I can confidently recommend it to travelers who want comfort at a budget-friendly rate. It’s not flawless—rooms could use a table, and minor issues like card payments or reception hours might inconvenience some guests. Still, the warm staff, cleanliness, and relaxed social vibe easily outweighed those points.
At ₱3,500 for three nights, the value is clear. My Green Hostel reflects the spirit of Port Barton: simple, welcoming, and unpretentious. It’s a place where you can rest after exploring the islands, share stories with fellow travelers, and appreciate the slow rhythm of Palawan life. As for why “Green” is in the name, I had no clue—probably because most of the paint used was green.
For anyone planning a trip to Port Barton, My Green Hostel is a great choice, whether you’re a backpacker seeking community, a couple looking for a private but affordable room, or a solo traveler searching for a cozy base to explore one of Palawan’s most underrated gems.
