I came to Port Barton expecting a quieter side of Palawan. It turned out exactly that. Fewer crowds, slower mornings, and a more relaxed vibe made it stand apart from El Nido or Coron. This small fishing village attracts travelers who want simplicity, without the noise of large resorts and tourist buses. Yet even in a place this laid-back, the main highlight is joining a port barton island hopping tour.
I booked mine through my hostel the day before. For PHP 1500, the package covered everything: environmental fee, snorkeling gear, life vest, lunch, and a guide. It was a joiner tour, which meant I’d be sharing the boat with other travelers. I liked the idea since I wanted to meet people after traveling mostly on my own.
The operator picked me up at 9 AM and brought me to the port. Our guide reminded us to wear life vests because officers kept an eye on compliance. Once cleared, our boat started moving. The coastline faded, giving way to blue water that sparkled under the late morning sun. A light breeze carried the salty smell of the ocean, and the waves slapped gently against the hull. I knew this day would be slow, calm, and beautiful.
Klook.comTwin Reef
Our first stop was Twin Reef, one of the most popular snorkeling spots in Port Barton. The boat anchored, and the guide helped everyone with masks and snorkels. I don’t swim well, so I was grateful for the sturdy life vests provided.
The moment I jumped in, I felt surrounded by life. Schools of fish darted in every direction, shimmering under sunlight that pierced the clear water. Visibility was excellent, and I could see several meters below.
The corals, however, told a different story. The guide explained that bleaching was becoming common because shallow reefs heat up quickly under strong sun. Many corals looked pale, and patches appeared lifeless. It was sobering, but being in the middle of countless fish still made the stop magical.
When I finished snorkeling, I climbed to the banca’s upper deck. While moving, we weren’t allowed there, but anchored it was safe. From above, I captured better photos of the reef, the turquoise water, and the group swimming below. It felt peaceful just watching them float, like small dots in a giant aquarium.
Turtle Spot near Maxima Island
Our next destination was a sea turtle area near Maxima Island. The boat slowed suddenly, and the guide told us to jump in. While we snorkeled, the crew began grilling food on the boat. Smoke drifted above us, mixing with the salty air.
It didn’t take long before we spotted a turtle. It was big, calmly feeding on the seabed as we floated above. It didn’t mind our presence at all, just continued nibbling on sea grass. The guide helped slower swimmers get closer so nobody missed the chance to see it.
Instead of swimming back to the boat, our guide encouraged us to continue toward Maxima Island. The beach was close, and it felt exciting to reach the shore straight from the water.
Lunch at Maxima Island
Maxima Island became our lunch stop. The beach looked simple; fine sand, leafy trees, and calm waters lapping the shore. What I liked most was its natural charm. It wasn’t crowded or overly developed.
The crew prepared a feast: liempo, grilled chicken, fresh fish, stir-fried noodles, eggplant salad, rice, and sliced fruits. Eating by the shore after a full morning of snorkeling made everything taste better. Plates were simple, but the flavors stood out.
Here, the group became more talkative. Travelers swapped stories about journeys through Southeast Asia or short holiday escapes. After months of isolation at home, hearing voices and laughter again felt refreshing. Travel wasn’t just about destinations, it was also about moments like these, eating good food with strangers who quickly became friends.
Paradise Island
After lunch, we headed to Paradise Island. The boat anchored near its sandy stretch, and we jumped in to swim. The underwater life here wasn’t as vibrant as Twin Reef or the turtle spot, but the beach itself looked serene. Coconut trees swayed slowly, and the sound of small waves filled the quiet. We didn’t stay long, but the short stop gave us time to float lazily and take photos of the calm scenery.
Fantastic Reef
Our fourth stop was Fantastic Reef, and it truly earned its name. Unlike the shallow Twin Reef, this one was deeper. The corals looked healthier, with more colors and variety. Purples, oranges, and greens painted the underwater landscape. Fish moved quickly among coral heads, creating bursts of motion in the still blue water.
The group grew more adventurous here. Some climbed the banca’s roof and leapt into the deep water with loud splashes. I stayed back, capturing photos of the scene. Watching them jump against the backdrop of endless sea made me smile, it was the kind of carefree moment that defines island hopping trips.
Starfish Island
The last stop was Starfish Island, though it wasn’t a true island but a sandbar. Shallow waters stretched out on both sides, and starfishes lay scattered across the sand.
Some were bright orange and easy to spot, while others blended perfectly with the seabed. The guide reminded us not to pick them up or move them. Even though they seemed harmless, disturbing them could harm the fragile ecosystem.
Walking carefully through the shallow water, I found more starfishes than I expected. Each step revealed another, some partly hidden under sand. It was like a treasure hunt, but with living jewels of the sea.
The day offered plenty: snorkeling among fish, spotting turtles, walking on sandbars, and eating freshly grilled food by the beach. What I appreciated most was that the tour never felt rushed. We lingered at each stop long enough to truly enjoy it.
Port barton island hopping might not have El Nido’s towering cliffs or Coron’s lagoons, but it delivers something more personal. The groups are smaller, the reefs quieter, and the islands less crowded. By the end of the day, I felt grateful I chose this adventure.
Tips for Port Barton Island Hopping
If you plan your own visit, here are a few things I learned along the way. Start with sunscreen and a rash guard since the sun is strong, especially on the boat’s open deck. Bring a waterproof bag to protect cameras and phones. Snorkeling gear is included in most packages, but if you prefer your own, bring it along.
The best months for port barton island hopping are December to May, when seas stay calmer. Tours usually begin mid-morning and end by late afternoon. If you want fewer people, join a weekday trip or ask about private tours.
