Port Barton is one of Palawan’s best-kept secrets and it sits just a short journey south of El Nido. Adding Port Barton to your itinerary between El Nido and Puerto Princesa is one of the best decisions you can make for your Palawan trip. Here is exactly how to get there.
Quick Answer
From El Nido to Port Barton you can take a van transfer (1.5 to 2 hours, ₱650 shared / ₱4,500 private) or a speedboat (3 to 4 hours, weather dependent, around ₱1,200–1,500 per person). The van is faster, cheaper, and available in all weather. The speedboat is scenic but unreliable during rough seas.
Option 1 — Van Transfer (Recommended)
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Travel time | 1.5 to 2 hours |
| Distance | Approximately 105 km |
| Shared van price | ₱650 per person |
| Private van price | ₱4,500 per vehicle (up to 10 pax) |
| Pickup | Your hotel in El Nido town, Corong Corong, or Lio Beach |
| Drop-off | Port Barton beachfront |
| Weather dependent | No — runs every day |
The van goes south from El Nido along the national highway through San Vicente before turning into Port Barton. The road is fully paved and in good condition. The final 15 km descent into Port Barton through jungle is one of the most scenic short drives in Palawan.
Option 2 — Speedboat
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Travel time | 3 to 4 hours |
| Price | ₱1,200–1,500 per person |
| Departs | Usually 7:00–8:00 AM from El Nido pier |
| Weather dependent | Yes — cancelled in rough sea conditions |
| Availability | Not daily — check local operators in El Nido |
The speedboat from El Nido to Port Barton travels along the coast passing small islands and limestone formations. The scenery is outstanding on a clear day. However the boat is slower than the van despite being on water because it navigates around the Linapacan island group rather than going direct. It is also more expensive per person and can be cancelled with no notice if weather deteriorates.
Which Should You Choose?
| Choose the Van if… | Choose the Boat if… |
|---|---|
| You want the fastest option | You prioritize coastal scenery |
| You are on a fixed schedule | You have a flexible itinerary |
| You are traveling in wet season | Seas are confirmed calm (dry season) |
| You are traveling with luggage | You travel light |
| You are prone to motion sickness | You enjoy open water travel |
| Budget is a consideration | Experience is the priority |
What to Do in Port Barton Once You Arrive
Port Barton is a small beachside village with excellent island hopping, good snorkeling, fresh seafood restaurants, and almost no crowds. Key things to do:
- Island hopping to German Island, Exotic Island, and Turtle Island (₱1,000–1,200 per person)
- Snorkeling at Exotic Island reef — one of the healthiest coral reefs in Palawan
- Sunset watching from the beachfront — Port Barton faces west
- Pamuayan Waterfalls hike — 30 minutes through jungle to a swimming hole
- Fresh grilled fish dinner on the beach — under ₱300 at most local restaurants
How to Book Your El Nido to Port Barton Van Transfer
Book your El Nido to Port Barton van transfer here — shared vans from ₱650 per person, private vans from ₱4,500. Hotel pickup in El Nido town, Corong Corong, or Lio Beach. We confirm within 1 hour via WhatsApp. Book at least 24 hours before your travel date.
