Island Hopping in Port Barton

Ever find yourself daydreaming you're in a Corona commercial relaxing on the perfect beach, rather than sifting through paperwork and emails in the office?  We've all imagined that perfect paradise island destination at one time or another.

We may have found just that beach you've been daydreaming about. Actually, Port Barton doesn't just have one, but several island beaches with charming characteristics and breathtaking views. It's no wonder why Island hopping is the most popular past-time in Palawan.  With a quick stroll on the beach, you'll run into several banca boat drivers willing to take you on a tour for about 1200 pesos (roughly $25).  Not a bad deal to spend the day in paradise, if you ask us. 

 

We packed a lunch, plenty of water, sunblock, snorkel gear, our cameras and headed off to explore. 

EXOTIC ISLAND

Other than its cool name, Exotic Island has a sandbar that allows you to walk way out into the water. Fifty feet offshore there is a beautiful reef with corals and fish galore, providing plenty of snorkeling entertainment. Here you'll also find Ronald, the local caretaker and his pack of friendly island dogs. 


WHITE BEACH

With white sand and perfectly placed palm trees, White Beach is the perfect postcard beach. It's impossible to take a bad picture here. The water is cool and refreshing, a great place to take a dip after lunch.


GERMAN ISLAND

Another good snorkeling spot....and nice panoramic view. 

CAPSILAY

Capsilay isn't a popular stop off for boat tours and honestly it's hard to convince the driver to take you there because it's a popular fishing area. But, if you are so lucky, you'll get to see this mangrove tree.

Ostrich Farm in San Vicente, Palawan

Ever watch The Swiss Family Robinson and was curious to see how an ostrich runs in real life? Well in San Vicente, you might just get the opportunity to if you just ask Andy. Andy Caratao is the caretaker at the local Ostrich Farm and knows how to get these birds into action. Mysterious and almost mythical, ostriches are a fascinating paradox to witness, with their long limbs, tall stature, and large, feathery bodies. When we first arrived, we visited the Brooder House, home of the 1 month old baby ostrich chicks. What an adorable sight! The chicks have ample room to run around and interact with us as we were introduced into their playpen. It was an experience we will never forget! Afterwards we ventured on to feed the adult ostriches and watched how these birds of a very peculiar feather run at astonishing speeds. Check out the Ostrich Farm when you're in San Vicente, and it will be a highly entertaining afternoon, spend it with the largest and possibly most amusing birds on the planet!