balabac tour guide

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Ultimate Travel Guide to Balabac, Palawan: The Last Paradise

Here’s your ultimate travel guide to Balabac, Palawan! Including a sample 5 days itinerary you can follow for your trip.

Last 2015, Hali and I were exchanging stories with a 60-year-old fellow traveler who then told us about Balabac. For the uninitiated, Balabac group of islands is a relatively unknown summer haven for backpackers seeking unspoilt beaches and preserved local culture. In my opinion, it has the best beaches you can find in the Philippines .

Balabac is located at the southernmost tip of Palawan in the Philippines and is just a few hours away from Sabbah, Malaysia.

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Along with five other friends, Hali and I ventured here on the first week of March 2016 for our first summer escapade (and also Hali’s birthday celebration — he said age isn’t important). It was a bit challenging to arrange a DIY vacation to Balabac. At the time of our trip, there was very little material in the internet especially with regards to island hopping prices and contact details.

So much has changed since our last visit. We’ve updated this post with the latest information , including info on packaged tours to Balabac so you’ll have a hassle-free travel. Enjoy!

P.S. Traveling to Balabac, soon? I also recommend reading our Guide to Island Hopping in Balabac, Palawan .

Option 1: Via Rio Tuba

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The closest airport to Balabac is Puerto Princesa Airport. From there, you need to travel to either Rio Tuba port or Buliluyan port and then ride a boat to Balabac. It will take you at least a day to get to Balabac.

In Puerto Princesa, ride a trike or jeep to San Jose Terminal. Tricycle fare from the airport is P120. If you walk outside the airport to the main road, tricycle fare is P70-100 per ride and jeepney fare is P12-15 per person.

From San Jose Terminal, ride either a bus or van going to Rio Tuba. Travel time is 4-5 hours. Commuting via van is faster since there are lesser stopovers, although you will still need to wait for other passengers to fill up all the seats. Fare for the van is P300 per person.

Van Schedules:

• Puerto Princesa to Rio Tuba: 4AM to 5PM
• Rio Tuba to Puerto Princesa: 4AM to 3PM

Bus Schedules:

• Puerto Prinesa to Rio Tuba: Up to 7PM

Regardless of which transport you choose, it’s safe to be at the terminal at around 5-6PM to make sure you won’t miss a ride to Rio Tuba.

From Rio Tuba, ride a passenger boat to Balabac.

Travel time is 4 hours, boat fare is P370. Normally, there is only one schedule for the boat via Rio Tuba-Balabac route, which is anywhere from 9AM to 12 noon. The boat leaves immediately once all seats are taken. A boatman told us they make a second trip depending on the number of passengers, but I get the impression that this rarely happens.

If you arrive at night in Rio Tuba, you can sleepover at the nearby White Heaven Lodging which is just near the port. From there, take a tricycle to the port (P20 per person).

The passenger boat makes a few stops. You’re about an hour away from mainland Balabac after you pass by Bancalan Port.

Similarly, there is also one schedule for the boat from Balabac to Rio Tuba: at 6AM in the morning. The boat is either docked in the unloading pier or VCI, depending on the sea level.

Depending on your itinerary, you can also opt to travel from Puerto Princesa to Buliluyan Port instead of Rio Tuba. There are no passenger boats in Buliluyan Port. Instead, your boat operator for island hopping will have to fetch you from here to Balabac. This port is closer to some islands in Balabac, including Patunggong Island and Tangkahan Island. If you want to go straight to island hopping, this is a better choice.

Same as above: In Puerto Princesa, ride a trike or jeep to San Jose Terminal.

Then ride a van to Buliluyan Port. Fare is P600 per person. Travel time is 5 hours.

Summer is the best time to visit Balabac . As per Anj of Kilometer Zero PH, ber-months are still okay but during the amihan season (from December to February) the waves can get particularly rough.

There are different islands you can visit in Balabac. These are:

• Bancalaan Island
• Camiaran Island (Pink Sand Beach)
• Onuk Island (also called Onok Island)
• Candaraman Island (Starfish Sandbar)
• Sicsican Island
• Ramos Island
• Canabungan Island
• Nasubata Island
• Punta Sebaring
• Patunggong Island
• Patawan Island
• Mansalangan sandbar
• Matangule sandbar
• Bobby’s Island
• Secam Island
• Cabcabun Island
• Tangkahan Island
• Timbayan Island (rock formation)
• Balabac Island – Melville Lighthouse

In my opinion, the best islands to visit are : Camiaran Island, Onuk Island/Onok Island, Patawan Island, Candaraman Island, Mansalangan sandbar, Punta Sebaring and Tangkahan Island.

To know more about the islands in Balabac, read our Guide to Island Hopping in Balabac, Palawan . We also have a separate feature on Onuk Island .

Take note that the islands in Balabac are mostly privately owned, so public access may change.

As of 2019 , visiting Melville Lighthouse in no longer allowed. Candaraman Island is also closed but it is still possible to visit the sandbar.

Here’s a sample 5 days itinerary to Balabac, Palawan. You can use it as a rough guide when you visit Balabac.

Coordinate with your boatmen since they know which are the best hours to visit the islands. For instance, places such as Punta Sebaring, Onuk Island/Onok Island and the sandbars need to be visited during low tide, which changes per season.

Due to the long commute time, it’s recommended to stay 5-7 days in Balabac, Palawan.

Where to book your tours in Balabac

You can book your island hopping tour directly with the local boat operators in Balabac. There are also travel agencies offering full packaged tours to Balabac, which is convenient especially if you’re a solo or couple joiner.

Also included are the current island hopping rates ( Updated as of 2022 ).

Kuya Boboy and Kuya Onyok were our guides and we highly recommend them. If you decide to hire them via this blog, please tell them that we (Katherine and Hali) say Hi! Ate Lorna is a relative of them and she also arranges tours to Balabac.

Here is their contact:

• Kuya Onyok : 09123993543 / Kuya Boboy : 09309822412 | Facebook
• Ate Lorna : 09066909547 / 09465576503

Their rates are 4-6 people: P1500 per head/day, 7-10 people: P1200 per head/day.

These prices include the island hopping tour and meals. Accommodation can be booked in the mainland or islands separately.

For complete packaged tours, I recommend Gala PH by JV Francisco. I went with them on my second visit in Balabac . I had a blast, the food was overwhelming and overall I highly recommend their services.

Gala PH arranges joiner tours to Balabac, including transfer from PPS to Balabac and vice versa, island hopping, accommodation and meals.

Here is their contact: Gala PH – Facebook

Their rate is P9500 per person for a 3-day tour, including transfer from Puerto Princesa and vice versa, island hopping tour, meals, and accommodation (tent only).

Where to stay

Staying overnight in Puerto Princesa? You can check out discounted inns/hotels in PPS here .

Here are the main accommodations you can book for your trip to Balabac, Palawan.

• White Heaven Lodging . Rates: Room for 2 pax – P250
• Dewelyn Lodging House . Contact: 0999034854
• Pring Pension House . Rates: Fan room with common CR – P300 / AC room w/o breakfast – P700 or with breakfast – P900. Contact: 09265844805

White Heaven Lodging is near the port of Rio Tuba so it’s the recommended to stay here.

Here are the places you can stay at in mainland Balabac.

• JD lodging (Sing and Swing lodge) . Rates: Fan room with common CR for 2 pax – P500 / AC room for 2 pax – P1000. Contact: 09106620073
• MLK lodging . Rates: Room for 2 pax – P500. Contact: 09395176169
• Mely Bechayda Pension House . Rates: Fan room with common CR – P500 / Shared big room with own CR – P250 per person. Contact: 09264049171
• Biga-Biga Beach Resort . (No info)

We stayed at JD lodging for the duration of our trip. The rooms are surprisingly spacious. The restrooms and shower stalls are for common sharing but clean and regularly maintained. The electricity in the whole Balabac group of islands is up until midnight only, but you can request for the generator to be turned on during the night in JD Lodging for P300 per night (all rooms covered).

There are also islands where you can find resorts/camping grounds. Some of these are:

• Candaraman Island
• Canibungan Island
• Matangule Island
• Punta Sebaring (Bugsuk Island)
• Onuk Island/Onok Island

If you’re availing of a packaged tour, accommodation is already taken cared of.

Here are the things you should know about before you go:

• Bring all the cash that you need; there is no ATM or bank in Balabac. The nearest one is located in Rio Tuba.
• Be prepared to go on rough backpacking, i.e., camping on islands. You can also stay in mainland Balabac, but going to/from here when you island hop might be time consuming, which is why the usual itinerary includes staying overnight in islands.
• Mobile signal is non-existent or weak in most places in Balabac.

• You can buy Malaysian goods such as mi goreng noodles as pasalubong in mainland Balabac or Sitio Marabun, a local community on stilts which you’ll pass by going back to Buliluyan Port.
• Insect repellent
• For camping: Tent/hammock, flashlight and powerbank
• Snorkel set/fins

There are islands in Balabac that are home to sand flies (or niknik), such as Punta Sebaring. Make sure to bring insect repellent and balm for insect bites.

There’s a lot of snorkeling/freediving sites in Balabac. However, there are no rental stores in this area so you should bring your own equipment.

Here are other contact details you may need:

• Kuya Jerry, shuttle service Puerto Princesa City – Rio Tuba : 0927 705 5910/0946 260 6260

Update as of January 2018:  Ate Bebeth is no longer part of the tourism office, and I’ve removed her contact detail above.

Budget depends on the package you choose. For 5-6 days stay good for 4 people, a safe budget would be P9000-10,000 per person.

Additional: FAQ Section

I’ve added this section as an update. Ever since posting this Balabac Palawan itinerary and other features, we’ve been drowning in inquiries, and though the attention is flattering, sadly I can’t keep up with all the messages.

When we visited in 2016, we found out thru inquiries in our blog that there are security issues in Balabac. However, it is our personal experience that Balabac is safe for foreign and local tourists.

As of 2019 , tourism in Balabac is expanding and there are currently no security concerns about visiting here.

There are other places you can visit in Palawan. The unique thing about Balabac is it’s the most remote and possibly the least commercialized as of yet.

Puerto Princesa  offers its own island hopping and scuba diving adventures, not to mention the world-renown Puerto Princesa Underground River .  El Nido and Coron  are world-known vacation spots, famous for limestone karsts and clean lagoons. There are also low-key destinations in Palawan that offer a quiet time off, such as Port Barton .

If you’re looking for off-beaten beaches, we recommend:

• Calayan Island in Babuyan Islands, Cagayan
• Palaui Island in Cagayan

If you want to get an idea of other great attractions, here’s a list of the best places to visit in the Philippines .

Thank you to everyone who helped me in creating this guide! If you have updated information, please let us know thru comments/email so we can update this post as well.

Don’t forget to watch our summer experience in Balabac, Palawan, in this video:

Has this Balabac Palawan itinerary and travel guide been helpful to you ? Feel free to like and share. Oh and post your comments below! 🙂

Visiting Palawan? Check out the rest of our guides in Palawan:

• Ultimate Guide to Palawan
• Top Things to Do in Palawan
• Best Beaches in Palawan

Puerto Princesa :

• Guide to Puerto Princesa Underground River
• Island Hopping in Honda Bay
• Best Resorts and Hotels in Puerto Princesa
• Travel Guide to Coron
• Best Resorts in Coron Palawan
• Travel Guide to El Nido
• Best Resorts in El Nido Palawan
• Travel Guide to Balabac
• Island Hopping in Balabac
• Onuk Island

Port Barton :

• Travel Guide to Port Barton + 3 Days Itinerary
• Top Things to Do in Port Barton
• Island Hopping in Port Barton

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Katherine Cortes is a long-time backpacker and a freelance writer/editor. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs!).

129 Comments

Irena filipovic dimitrijevic.

Anybody wants to go with us and share expenses, in 3 days to Balabac? So, the dates are Februaru 20th- night in Rio Tuba, and after that 3 nights on Balabac. Johannes and Irena

its my futured island…Balabac is a unique in the whole world…lets safe Palawan forever.. 🙂

Hello, do you have a scheduled boat trip from Buliluyan Port to Balabac? Or we have to rent a private boat for that? would you know hm?

Katherine Cortes

Hello. There are no passenger ferries from Buliluyan Port. You have to rent a private boat. Usually it’s included in island hopping rates, as today most tourists go this route.

Maybe we can go together. my desired schedule is Jan 31 to Feb 2, 2020. My number is 09289106175

Ron Orlovsky

Hi there! Katherine! This is soooooo helpful! A friend and I are looking to travel Balabac during Christmas break. Anytime between 24th-29th of December, 2019. We are looking for joiner to share the “burden” 🙂 Feel free to email: [email protected] .

Sushil Kumar

hi we are 2 adults and a child 13 yrs planning for balabac from the 16 th of jan to 20th of jan 2020 any body who wishes to join can please mail me on [email protected] thank you

Hello, I will fly to Puerto Princesa on January 26 and will stay in Palawan till mid of February (single traveller). Do you think, it is possible, to organize joining a Balabac-Island-hopping-tour just after arrival in Puerto Princesa on January 27 or 28? Since I don’t want to rush, I would reserve up to 7 days for such a tour if it is necessary. But I am a foreigner (Europe). From the videos on Youtube it seems, that there have been some foreigners doing such tours in 2019. Is it possible, to join a tour being the only foreigner? Or is a foreigner still a risk for the whole group, like Bryan mentioned in his comment from February 2018?

Hi Carl, you’ll probably be fine. Also Balabac is more open to visitors now compared to the past years since word about it is slowly getting out.

Not sure how you’re going to organize a tour after arrival unless you already have/will meet other companions there. Why don’t you post in FB groups to see who’d also like to go or you can contact Ate Lorna to ask if she has scheduled guests on those dates. You can also go solo but it’s more expensive.

We will be in palawan on january 29 to feb 4. Can we join? 2 persons

Hello everyone, I will travel in balabac on February 2-7, 2020, two of us, expecting others to join.my email [email protected]

hi guys. my friend and i will be in balabac from nov 18 to 20. if theres anyone who we can join with the tours kindly send me an email please, [email protected] . mys sister in laws brother lives in rio tube and owns a boat so maybe we can get a discount for the trips. tia.

Jared dela Cruz

Your post and your pictures are truly inspiring, thank you so much. I have never heard of Balabac until recently. But from then on, I’ve been dreaming of going there, the last paradise in the Philippines’ last frontier.

Blog is very nice and details. Ilm planning in May 2019. Can i get WhatsApp no. Of some tour operator?

Hi! Better contact their mobile numbers directly because whatsapp isn’t used much here in the ph.

Seemed like an awesome experience you had. Was this a DIY trip that you planned yourselves or did you purchase a full package with a tour company beforehand? Very helpful post.

Hi Nicole. As said in the blog post, we did it DIY. Nowadays there are tours in Balabac which we’d recommend you do instead. 🙂

Hi! Pwede pong pakiconfirm if that is still the number of kuya onyok? I texted the number and inquired about rates. He asked for a downpayment and gave a different name (might be his real name?) But since malaki ung downlayment na hinihingi niya, medyo worried lang ako.

Hi Ren, sorry for the late reply. The number was still working a few months back, but we got the updated numbers here: Kuya Onyok – 09123993543, Kuya Boboy – 09073892313. 🙂 We also updated the guide.

Sarah L. Grageda

Hi Katherine! In Balabac or Rio Tuba, is there any available motorcycle that is for rent? If there is, I’d like to know the average price of the rent per day. Thanks!

I’m not sure. If you find one I’m guessing it’ll be around P400-500 per day? That’s how much motorcycle rental costs in other places in Palawan.

Hi! Anybody here who has contacts for mainland Balabac tours? Thank you in advance!

We live in Palawan (in Brooke’s Pt.) but when I told him I want to visit Balabac, he said no:( Want to visit the island badly :((

Bout dun sa 1,2 and 3days package tour in onok island?

May i know what is included on that packages?

Krista Matias

Palawan is really such a beautiful island, and I am planning to go there this year. I am glad I have read this blog, I am really looking forward to trying out these exciting activities in there. Thank you for sharing the beauty of Palawan.

Mhat Hidalgo

Hello! We’re actually heading rio tuba now with friend. Ask ko Lang yung tour package na 4500 per head for two 3d2n San ang pick up point? Thanks . Any joiners? Please pm me

I’ve heard about the “niknik” during the night, how bad is it? is OFF Lotion not enough to drive them away?

Nope. Even if it works I don’t think you’ll be very comfortable with insects around you.

I’m planning to go on my own this June or end of may who wants to Join me, so we can save more money I’ll bring my own tent as well

you want to check kilometerph meron na silang na organized na group. at may mga scheds na rin

Anyone going to palawan in june? Im island hopping and would love to visit balabac

I’m planning to go on my own this June or end of may

Jay Sebastian

Hi. I am planning to go to Balabac second week of August (9th).

Are there any of you here travelling around this time? If I can join your team that would be very nice.

Please give the contact number of tourism officer if you have.

Hi, we’re planning to go to Balabac on June 13-17. Hope we can find a group of travellers to whom we can join, so it will lessen our tight budget.

George Gaskell

hello, [email protected] here. George for short. A friend and I plan to go round about the same time; June 13-17. 2019. Please email your details if interested to join up and cut costs. And a million thanks too Katherine & Hali for this wonderful bit of info.

Eejay Corceles

Hi belle, my girlfriend and i are actually scheduled to tour balabac on june 13-17, 2019. DM me on instagram @eejayboang

Hi! I’ll be in Balabac from May 10 to 15. I hope I can join other groups to save money for the island hopping. Mac

Hello! We’re going to Balabac this coming June 2018? Anyone who wants to join us during our island hopping from June 8 to 10?

Hi! Are you still looking for travel buddies? My two friends and I will be in Palawan from June 6-11 and we’re planning to go to Balabac.

June 6 to 11 might work for me and a friend. Please email just in case we are able to manage these dates, so as to enable us to cut costs. Thanks and thanks again to Katherine and Hali for sharing.

June 8 to 10 might work for me and a friend. Please email just in case we are able to manage these dates, so as to enable us to cut costs. Thanks and thanks again to Katherine and Hali for sharing.

i and my husband were able to go march 19-21 and i would say this is by far my best beach experience ever in my many years of traveling to different beach locations in the country. we had such a great time. we met new friends during our island hopping. six of those who were featured in KMJS last sunday were with us in onuk island which we enjoyed the most. those who are going, please do not miss onuk. the hefty entrance fee is so worth it. i have so many stories to tell, good and not so good about this trip but i will need to write a blog about it. 🙂

Hi Judy thanks for sharing your experience. 😉

Hello! May I know who was your tour guide/boat operator and how was your transaction with him/her? Thanks.

Hello. I just saw this post and planning to go there alone 🙁 Let me know if I can join so that I can save cost

Hi! We are planning to go to balabac this may 29 (departure from manila). Any group interested to join para makamura tayo? PM me on FB- Sunshine Cervantes

get fidel….madali sya kausap at okay ang package rates nya

Earlier of May po meron?

May 2-6 pm me 09174037478 confirmed

Hi Sunshine. PMed you in FB already.

Jamie Lou Garces

Hi! Is that the final date? Will arrive in Puerto Princesa on May 31. May I still join the group?

Tried to search your name in messenger, it matches a lot of profiles po. I’m interested to join the group but I’ll arrive in Puerto Princesa on May 31.

fidel was our boat operator/guide and i highly recommend him.

I went down to Rio Tuba in Mid February and was told it is not safe for foreign guests (non-filipino) to go there at the time being. I had a very nice lady at the docks of Rio Tuba calling around to numerous numbers I gave her and some family that she has down there. The same response from all, they strongly discouraged foreign tourists from visiting at the moment. They are still operating boats (quite expesive – 6-7,000php for 3 day trips) for Filipinos though.

If boat operators that make money from tourism are encouraging foreign guests to stay away, it’s probably for a reason. To the foreign tourists, is it really worth putting yourself in danger or the other people with you as well?

Thanks for the update Bryan! Did they say why? (My friends had just gotten back from Balabac including Onuk this month, but then they are locals.)

I guess that the terrorists in the area will target foreign travelers specifically in the area. Just in the past year there was a foreign couple killed on a boat down there, along with a Filipino woman and her child according to what I was told. I’m quite sure they wouldn’t just be making that up. They didn’t say I couldn’t go, but just strongly advised against it.

As a foreign tourist, of course you shouldn’t put yourself in a potentially dangerous situation along with putting any Filipinos you would be with in dangers as well.

Hopefully one day things will get better down there!

I see. Thanks for this info! We were not aware of the news abt the foreign couple. 🙂 When we went tho I did mention (in another post) that I do not think Balabac is stable yet, hopefully it will be in the coming years.

Not a problem. And like you say, hopefully things get better in the future there! I would love to see it for myself one day.

di kami natuloy ng husband ko last year sa balabac due to time and money constraints but hopefully next month at nakabooked na kami. kaso ang mahal ng singil sa min nun nakausap ko. 3nights tig P10k each kami, island hopping lang un and food. kung 7k each kaya pa sa budge. but 10k each mukhang hindi na. sana meron pa akong mahanap na mas cheaper sa 10k at makasabay na mga grp. we will arrive puerto on march 17 and 26 is our flight back.

Hi Judy, sinong kausap niyo? Try contacting Kuya Boboy and Ate Lorna. My friends are going there also this summer, maayos naman yung quote sa kanila.

Hi po. I am planning to visit Balabac at baka aku lang mag-isa. I only want to visit Candaraman at Punta Sebaring. Side trip lang sa Candaraman and I’ll spend 2 nights sa Punta Sebaring. Do you have any idea how much it would cost me for the boat?

I don’t know since that’s a custom trip. Why don’t you ask the boatmen/tour guides for a quote? 🙂

sir anung date ang punta nyo ng balabac? kc kmi ng sister q..since dalawa lng kmi we’re planning to visit punta sebaring and another island malapit lng sa sebaring kc btin un araw namin? bka pd pd tyo tatlo kung same date lng un pgbisita mo para mas cheaper.. thanks

kelan kayo nasa puerto? baka pwede tayo mag joint forces para mas makatipid. 2 lang kami ng husband ko. dating namin ng puerto march 17. 25 ang balik. plan namin mag pa rio tuba the same day kung maabutan namin ang last trip. then pa bangkalan on the 18th kung saan kami ppick upin ni fidel (contact boatman ko) let me know guys. thanks

nku mam mgkaiba tyo ng date march 10-13 po kmi ng sister q.. sayang namn..

hi anne papunta pa labg ako ng balabac dito pa lanv ako rio tuba pier

hello anne…kmsta ang trip nyo last 10-13?

mjo disappointed kmi d sun package n nkuha nmin..then n delayed p un flight namin ng mahigit 2hrs..mjo maalon kaya ilang islands lng un npuntahn nmin.. pero no doubt mgganda tlga isla sa balabac worth to visit kahit malayo..

Pwede ba ako humingi ng itinerary mo? Thanks 🙂

mam may npg inquira’an aq 7500 per person lng kay kap andong ito un number nya 09204214583..

ser anung date ng balabac visits mo?

ALL the island-hopping BOAT TRIPS are CANCELED on Balabac! You can go there with public boat but NOONE will TAKE you any of the tourist DESTINATIONS since there are many discussions between island, boat owners, coast guards and tourism office of Balabac.

We ve just came back from Balabac.

This blog shoud be updated, before anyone effort to go there.

Hi Gabor, sorry to hear abt your experience and thanks for the heads up! Yes we’ve heard about on-going talks particularly about standardization of rates. Hope they come to an agreement soon. 🙂 If you have more updates, feel free to comment or message us so we can add it to the post.

Hala!!!panu kya yn?!!

It seems that island hopping tours are temporarily suspended. But my friends who’d been there this week were able to go island hopping. Guess there’s nothing else to do but wait until matters get resolved. 🙂

si fidel bago kong kausap…he gave me a much lower price.

Thanks for the tips! I’m going to Balabac in April! Did you have problems sa source ng drinking water in Balabac? Kasi parang hindi practical magdala ng maraming bottled water. hehe Thank you!

No. You can easily buy bottled water or ask for a glass in the eateries. 🙂

I wanted to let you know that Ate Bebeth, (Balabac assistant tourism officer: 0949 424 1605) no longer works with the tourism office.

Would anyone by chance know a different contact number to the tourism office there?

Hi Bryan, thanks for the update! I’ll go ask my friends if they have a contact number. 🙂 Please do inform us here if you get the new contact person also.

You can see my new response I made about my trip. Right now, I think it’s okay for Filipino tourists to visit but it was highly recommended that, I as a foreign tourist, didn’t visit due to concerns for the safety of foreign tourists in the area currently.

Hi, I can’t seem to find the contact number of White Heaven Lodge, do you have it? Thanks!

We didn’t get the number. It’s just walking distance from where the van will drop you off.

Hello Ms. Kath! If Sebaring Island lang pupuntahan namin then balikan lang agad, sa tingin mo po how much will it cost per head? Thank you.

Hi Cinderella, not sure… Better ask your boat operator. 🙂

i see…i’ll bring my 7yr old girl and little bit worried when it comes to camping for 2-3 nights(as offered by tour companies) your blog/article really help me to decide to do balabac on our own instead of getting a tour … thank you so much

Jasmin joy Villalobos Taneza

Hello Ms Kath.. fellow traveler here, enlighten me please, you don’t need to camp on those islands you mentioned,? on your day 2-4 you stay in balabac and do the boating every day from thereon? salamat

Yep. At the end of the day, we’d go back to the inn in mainland Balabac. I think it’s possible to camp in some of the islands but ask your boatmen to be sure.

Hi! My friend and I are planning to visit Balabac this March. More specifically, Onok Island is on the top of our list. However we were astounded to find out that they now charge 5000 pesos per head (entrance fee and meals included) just to visit this island. And that’s on top of the usual rate of 2000 per person per day Island hopping (3 islands per day). We tried to call diff boat operators and all have the same rates. Umm do you think it’s worth the price to still visit onok?

Waaa? Who are you referring to, exactly? Last time we were there, there was no entrance fee to Onuk Island. It’s a private property of the mayor and he used to just let visitors see the island. Did the mayor impose the new rate?

I just got an update and included it in the guide. Yes, the rate is now P5000 per head for a day tour in Onuk Island including lunch. Really pricey. I think I’ll skip on that. It’s not a 5-star hotel. But still depends on you.

Thanks for this detailed post. I just bookmarked this page for our future trip.

Quick question though: how the network coverage? Is there at least 3G?

Yep, but signal was intermittent so most of the time we just didn’t bother with our phones. Not sure how it is now. 🙂

hub and i are planning (well, im the one planning actually.he simply tags along 🙂 ) to go to balabac before end of january(20-24) from our northern palawan trip. considering the cost to get there and get back to puerto, kailangang magtipid…i really hope we may makasabay kami para mas mraming maka share sa island hopping. thank you so much for all the infos. they are a huge help.

If you’re on a budget I suggest just limiting your island hopping to the nearby islands – Onuk, Candaraman and Siksikan. It will cost you about P1500. Punta Sebaring is 3 hours away from mainland Balabac, for an additional P500.

Hi Zaida! I’m traveling solo to Balabac on Nov.20-24. You might want to come with me. Send me an email at [email protected] 🙂

We will be in Palawan again in April and we have already been to El Nido & Coron , we want do this area now. We’re foreigners so hope its not difficult to organise by ourselves

Hi Ana. We’ll probably go back next year, too. I hope you’d drop by again after your visit and let us know how it went. We get a lot of messages from foreign tourists asking the same thing and it’ll be a big help. 🙂

kapampangantraveller

Thank you for sharing your Balabac experience. Would explore on November and cross fingers for good weather.

Cheers for more travels!

I will travel novermeber 18-28th to Palawan. I plan to fly into Manila and then el Nido as the flight is one hour ish. Stay there for 3-4 days to island hop. From there fly back to Manila and then fly into Puerto princess and see if for a day if that. Then head to a tour to hit balabac island and island hope there to onuk and candarman. Is this enough time is there anything you can suggest. I may do a 5 day info you provided. Do I need the mayors signature to visit onuk? Thanks!

Hi Zaida, you can ask your boatmen to assist you in asking the mayor’s permission personally or you can send an email at least a month before. Contact the tourism office for more info on this.

Wow… Way back I was only allowed to stay in Rio Tuba. If I was just stubborn enough I would’ve discovered the place as well! Nice post and beautiful pics, Kat and Hali 😀

Anong meron? Security issues?

Hi! May I know if the rates of the tour are per boat or per person? There might be just two of us so I wanna know if it is still affordable.

Hi She. The rate is per boat. If you read the costing I clearly stated that with a rate of P8000, 2 people will have to spend P4000 each. 🙂 I hope that clears up any confusion.

hi kat.. is it possible to tour Balabac with my 3yrs old? and balak din kc namin mag el nido eh doable ba ang balabac and el nido for 8days?

Hi, I guess it’s okay if you’ll only island hop in nearby islands like Onuk and Candaraman and if you’ll manage to get a boat with proper roofing. Some islands are too distant kase. For example, from mainland it will take you 3 hours to reach Balabac island where the lighthouse is located.

Balabac and El Nido is doable in 8 days, but take note that El Nido and Balabac are on opposite sides of Palawan. It’s separated by at least 10 hours of land travel and another 4 hours of sea travel.

Backpacking Geek

Wow! Thanks for dropping by my space recently!

It was really hard to look for good references for a DIY sa Balabac! Kinilig ako because yours gave a great deal of info! Now I can start planning… 🙂 thanks again!

Oh, thanks for dropping by as well and you’re welcome!

I’d love to leave a comment in your site but there isn’t a comment option when opened in the WP reader. 🙂

Yeah… you will need to open the page to leave a comment. I’ll need to look for the settings in WP Reader to allow comments.

Thank you So much for this! I just want to ask kung dun na kayo sa balabac kumuha ng island hopping tour? Me and my boyfriend are planning to go there this August 2016 and we would like to backpack lang 🙂 Joiners are welcome!

Hi Isla! I already contacted Kuya Boboy weeks before our actual travel date. It’s okay if you’ll go there without an arranged tour yet. Just go directly to the tourism office for assistance. I have friends who went in Balabac without contacts and they encountered no problem naman.

hi Isla! we’re also planning to go to balabac on aug. 27-29. have you already booked a package tour? pls reply 🙂

hi isla! we wanna join for aug 27-29, 2016. do you still need joiners? we are a couple and we’re also in need of at least 3 joiners 🙂 pls pm me if interested. thanks! 🙂

Thanks for dropping by, Milet! Yep, better wait until election season is over. 🙂 I hope the newly elected officials do something to boost the tourism in Balabac as well as guarantee safety for tourists.

Roxane de Jesus

Hi, my cousin and I are planning to go on an April 16-17, 2016 trip to Balabac. Anyone interested to do a DIY with us to lessen the cost of fixed expenses like island hopping? The more, the lesser.

Roselle C Toledo

I’ve been wanting to go to Palawan. I find Boracay too crowded. I was not aware about Balabac. It’s so prinstine! Thanks for this article I also had an idea how much to save up.

Joy Perito-Priginal

The place really looks beautiful!Hubby and I will be travelling to palawan this october. I hope we can include it in our itinerary. Thank you for breaking down the expenses it will be really helpful as we always go on a budgeted trip!

Milton Coyne

I really want to visit the unspoiled beauty of Palawan .. this place has always been on my bucket list and your pictures make me so eager to push my plans this year!

Thanks for sharing your unbiased review on this place! I have been hearing my grandpa mention this place (Balabac) for so long since I was a kid. I didn’t know how beautiful this place was! I am going to Palawan this summer vacation and I am definitely am wanting to include this as my side trip with my family!

You’re welcome namesake! 🙂 I’ll consider other places though if you’re with a kid, since the boat rides during island hopping take hours and the motorized boats often used don’t have any overhead tarp to protect the boat passengers from the sun.

Aika Loraine

Last time, Air Asia had again their Piso Sale, I actually want to book for Palawan however, the fairs are too expensive so I decided to book for Kalibo instead. Reading this made me again think of booking a Palawan flight. I like it that you provided itinerary for this. I am a DIY traveller also. Uhum. Thanks to this blog entry as it will be a great addition to the very little material in the Internet about Balabac as you have mentioned.

Hi! I’m so glad i found this post. My friend and i are going to balabac in june so i need all the help i can get to prepare our itinerary. 🙂 Btw, you mentioned you werent able to go to Onuk? May i know why? Were you able to get the permit to visit the island? This is our main target location kasi so i would like to know if we need to get the permit before arrival sa palawan para sure and kung sino best contact person. Thanks in advance 🙂

Hi Awesome! You have to personally ask current Mayor Shuaib because it is his private property. So it depends if papayag siya. There are times he even lets visitors use his boat to go to Onuk Island.

Meron rin kasing security issue ngayon since election season (e.g., risk of kidnappings in the area etc.). This is what we were told by the asst. tourism officer.

When you arrive in Balabac, go to municipal hall to log your names in the local tourism register and also ask if Mayor is there. Seek assistance from your boatman, alam na nila yun. 🙂

Kat! You’ve captured our trip right on point. And I am also glad to see our beach conversation here. hehe

I think it also calls for everyone disposing their garbage properly – travellers and locals alike. Some of the trash seemed to have washed off from the shore and in the end it all comes back to us. Garbage is a big issue I think not only for Balabac but for other places as well. Though I am also hopeful that pretty soon the local tourism office will push for efforts to preserve the beaches since they are really that stunning. 🙂

’till our next adventure together! 🙂

Kelangan talaga more awareness and discipline regarding garbage disposal. Palaging yan ang problema sa local tourism e.

Yep, yep. See you soon! 😀

Hi Kath.. Good to see that you’re writing “again..” Hehe.. Refer ako dito sakaling mapadpad ako ng Palawan ha.. ; )

Hi Ranran, thank you! (Napaisip ako if I know you in person, if yes then PM mo ko here haha.)

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Travel Blog

Balabac, Palawan Ultimate DIY Travel Guide 2024 (Itinerary + Budget)

My emotions started to well up at the sight of the island but extreme happiness took over. My insides fluttered with joy – ah, euphoria. I drowned into a whirlpool of words. A million drifted through my open mind but none escaped from my very mouth. My lips turned into an upward curve instead that only God knows how long it was like that. I was just staring, lost in the reverie – grateful for the moment, amazed by the incomparably pure and unspoiled beauty. So this is Balabac.

I hankered to run barefoot and feel the fine sand on my feet, the salt and warm waters on my skin. I bathed in the sun that was shining bright into my whole being. Dazed, I turned and soaked myself in to the spectacular reality in front of me – a canvass painted with a vast and endless horizon of teal, cerulean to azure shades of the clear skies and the ocean. I stood there for a long time feeling the moment, wrapped in a sultry summer mood that I have always craved for. The wind and the little waves coming ashore were mellifluous. In the islands’ humble nipa cottages, await the care takers of the island and boatmen  with genuine smiles and untold stories. Balabac is a reality straight out of my daydreams and I wished it would never end.

About Balabac

How to get there

From manila to puerto princesa city, how to go to balabac from puerto princesa city, 1. puerto princesa city to rio tuba port (for diy travelers), 2. puerto princesa city to buliluyan port (for balabac joiner tours), exploring balabac, best things to do in balabac, where to stay, sample 4 days 3 nights balabac itinerary.

DAY 1: Arrival at Puerto Princesa Airport

Day 2: onuk island overnight stay, day 3: island hopping tour, day 4: sandbar and island hopping tour, estimated budget.

Tips in Traveling to Balabac

Protect the Last of the Last Frontier

I am very certain that my photos do not give justice to the real thing. A couple of times, I’ve taken a photo of a spot but it never looked the same way as what my eyes could see. It just saddens me that few trash are washed ashore in some of the islands from the nearby community. If you happen to see them, even not in Balabac, join me and a growing number of concerned travelers in the beach clean up . An hour or two wouldn’t hurt; not even a loss. Let’s all do it together for the greater good.

Anne Elizabeth Gumiran

Anne Elizabeth Gumiran, also known as Queenie, is a 20-something, full-time public school teacher, a part-time travel blogger and a freediver. She started putting her stories of adventures and misadventures into words and pictures in 2017 and continues to do so as she shares her advocacy, Sustainable Traveling.

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36 comments.

Hi, did you tavel alone? Will be in Balabac on June 12 to 16.

Balabac is calling me! <3

Hi thanks for this blog. I am planning to solo travel next year. Can I ask if your travel guide also took all of your pictures?

Hi! Since I went there solo, yes, I had to ask my guide to take my photos after framing them myself 🙂

Santiago Barcelona

Hello Question, after mag Overnight sa Onuk Island. San na po kayo nagstay sa Day 3 and 4?

Thank you. Will be there kasi this year, inaayos ko itinerary

Hi! I stayed in Candaraman Island 🙂

Ric Arevalo

Hi Quenn, Thanks a lot for all the info re Balabac travel.. It’s enough for me to decide and plan our trip this April…. Rgds

Yay! Enjoy 🙂

Hi thanks this super. Which company did you book through or use or did you join a tour at the port? Just to confirm this is more or less all inclusive eg food, acommmodation and island hoping? I think I will be there in three weeks! Thanks!

Hi! Search for Kamp Malaya on Instagram and Motet Sanson on Facebook 🙂 He offers Balabac tours with food and accommodation already. As of now, Balabac does not accept DIY travelers. Visitors should be joining an organized tour to get there 🙂

Angelica pimentel

Planning to go there Jan 2924 which do u think the easiest way is it from Manila to Puerto to balabac then cebu or the other way around

Hi, Angelica! The only way to get to Balabac is through flying to Puerto Princesa City from anywhere in the Philippines and a land trip from the city to Rio Tuba or Bataraza. If you wish to go to Cebu, you’d still need to go back to Puerto Princesa anyway 🙂

Imari Irish

Hello san island kaya may manta at dolphins?

We are planning to go freedive in Balabc very soon.

Vheng centeno

Hi! Thank you all the info needed are in detail its very helpful and inspiring to travel more ??Nice photos ?? Its also on my bucket list I was able to booked a trip with my family next year of sept, im thinking which place is better for us to travel to el nido or balabac since we are travelling with my youngest son (6yrs old)

More travel tips and adventure!! God bless and keep safe

Thank you for the kind words! ?El Nido I think is better for traveling for families especially with kids as it is more convenient, and they won’t have to endure a very long and tiring land and sea travel. As much as I want to recommend Balabac as you have 6 days to travel plus it just has the best beaches I’ve seen, the trip to and from might not be ideal for kids unless they’re used to such. Hope this comment helps!

is there internet service in balabac?

Signal is weak to none in most parts but there are islands with good reception especially at Balabac town and Candaraman.

How much po ang hotel pwede po b ilagy ang mga hotel at anong travel agency thanks

There are no hotels po in Balabac 🙂 there are only simple inns and basic accommodation in the island. Contact Motet Sanson of Kamp Malaya for tours po.

LO Soriente

Hi I enjoyed reading every details of your trip. I hope me and my family can visit the island before the year ends.

Is the sand in Balabac is finer as with Boracay?

Appreciate your reply. Regards.

Thank you so much! ?♥️

For me it’s finer and the islands are just so raw and pristine! You must see this place ??

Planning to go home in July and do Balabac.

July can be rainy?

I don’t really recommend visiting Balabac during these days as the waves can reaaaally really get rough especially on the wet season (which July is in) in the Philippines.

Hi! Thanks for the suggester itinerary! I have a few questions and hope you can answe ?

1.Did you join a tour or you DIYed everything? 2. If its gonna be 5days travel, which island do you think it is best to stay longer. 3. Which island has the best sunrise and sunset view? 4. Love your photos too! What camera did you use?

1. I commuted from PPS to Rio Tuba and then joined an island hopping tour by Kamp Malaya. 2. It’s best to stay in Candaraman and Onuk Island. 3. Onuk Island has the best sunrise and sunset, no doubt! It has both 🙂 4. I used my Sony a6000 in these photos.

Hope these answers help! 🙂

do you have contact person @ Onuk?

Hello, Jaz! I don’t have but Sir Motet Sanson, the owner of Kamp Malaya tour has. Maybe you can coordinate with him on this one 🙂

what group tour can you recommend and ts telephone number ill be going in November

Hello, Ina! You can check Kamp Malaya on Facebook 🙂

Maureen Melencion

Wow! What a great text with the details about Balabac and your tour around!! I will try to visit thoses places in mid september 2023. What do think about the weather, to rough? Do you think its a great idea to bring my paddel board? Do I have time to use my paddel board on the Islands or is it just hop on and hop of between the islands for pictures?

Regards fr Sweden

Hello, is there any travel agency here that provides group tours?

Hello! Yes, there is! My top recommended tour organizer in Balabac is Kamp Malaya. You can send your queries and book your tours with them through their Facebook page 🙂

pwede bang mag take chance at sa buliluyan sumakay ng bangka papuntang balabac as a DIY traveller?

Hi, I’m afraid that would be impossible. Buliluyan port is usually the port for organized tours and DIY travels by the way is currently not allowed in Balabac.

Thanks for the info. DIY, I mean wala akong tour package from PPS.. pupunta lang ako ng Balabac, then form there hahanap ako ng package probably like what you mentioend (Kamp Malaya). I’ve already booked a flight and wala ako mahanap (sa ngayon) na tour schedule na match sa booking ko.

Hi, Mike! I suggest you contact Kamp Malaya first or other tour operators just so your long trip from PPS to Rio Tuba/ Bataraza won’t go to waste as they currently suspended the DIY trips in the area 🙂

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Balabac Travel Guide 2024 – EVERYTHING You Need to Know

4  Comments

by  Manoling Martinez

December 14, 2023

Note: This post may include affiliate links. Read more about this here .  

Balabac has by FAR the best beaches I’ve ever seen.

Nothing beats its extra fine white sand.

Pair with its stunning bright blue waters and the lack of tourists, and you get an absolute island paradise.

Unlike Boracay or other beautiful beaches, traveling Balabac isn’t so simple.

That’s why I’m putting together this complete Balabac travel guide, so you can plan your trip accordingly!

I’ll go over:

• What to expect in Balabac
• How to get there
• How to “DIY” Balabac (Hint: You can’t exactly DIY it)
• ALL The Balabac Islands
• Budget and Itinerary
• What to bring
• Tour Agencies

And a bunch of other frequently asked questions .

Let’s get into it!

3 Things You Need to Know About Balabac Before Visiting!

1. balabac is not a luxury destination.

If you’re looking for a nice, luxurious vacation by the beach, this isn’t it 😂

What makes Balabac truly special is its “untouched” natural beauty.

There are no hotels on these islands (yet!).

Instead, you’ll find that most tours include a mix of tent camping on beaches, or staying at simple lodges in Balabac town.

There aren’t any classy restaurants either aside from a few carenderias in the town.

Instead, everything is going to be cooked by your tour crew (but don’t worry, some of them are amazing cooks!)

I don’t mean to discourage you from coming.

I’m just setting your expectations.

Because you’ll find that this lack of luxuries is EXACTLY what makes Balabac special!

2. You Can’t DIY Balabac

It’s not one of those destinations where you can rent a motorbike and visit all the spots on your own!

Instead, you’ll need to join tours for 3 reasons:

1. Balabac is a set of islands, so you’ll need a tour boat to get around.

2. There are no regular ferries between islands – only 1 from Palawan mainland to Balabac town that leaves once a day. And

3. The coast guard is quite strict around here. The waves can get treacherous, and Balabac is also very close to Malaysia, hence the extra security measures.

The most DIY you can get is to ride the passenger boat to Balabac town (more on this later) , then find a boatman there and ask them to take you on a private tour.

But then again…

Why not contact someone ahead of time to organize a private tour for you? 

3. Yes. Balabac is Just Beaches. But…

My main concern before visiting was that it would feel repetitive.

I’ve been on many island hopping tours before, and only a handful were really enjoyable.

That’s why I was worried that visiting Balabac would be nothing but 4 days of the same thing:

Beaches, beaches, and more beaches. 

But while that was true, Balabac is really just beaches – they’re also the BEST beaches you’ll ever see. 

That’s why I didn’t get bored. 

And I don’t think you will either! 

Plus, in Onok, there are also turtles and giant clams – an absolute treat! 

4. Signal is Limited in Balabac – So Tell Your Family and Friends

If you’re the type of person to takes a lot of stories for social media, you might be slightly disappointed in Balabac! 

Most of the islands have very limited to no signal at all. 

In Balabac town, the signal is alright for Smart, but not Globe. 

I personally liked this fact. It felt like a real escape. 

However, before visiting, you may want to inform family or friends so they won’t think you’re missing! 

Note: Smart has much better reception in the Balabac islands than Globe. 

How to Get to Balabac

The easiest way to get to Balabac is to book a tour package in advance. You can fly into Puerto Princessa, spend one night there, then your tour will pick you up between 3-4 A.M. to take you to Balabac. 

From Puerto Princessa, it’ll take roughly 5-6 hours to get to Buliluyan Port on the southern tip of Palawan – with one stopover where you can have breakfast. 

At the port, your tour boat will pick you up and you can begin your island-hopping adventure right away! 

You can book flights directly to Puerto Princessa from Manila, Cebu, Ilo-Ilo, and even Taoyuan Airport in Taipei.

If you’re coming from somewhere else in Palawan, I’m going to publish a Palawan transportation guide soon so stay tuned!

How to Get to Balabac DIY

From Puerto Princessa City, take a tricycle (php400) or a jeepney (php30) to the Irawan Bus Terminal – NOT the San Jose Terminal (San Jose Terminal has closed down already). 

From there, you can take a van to Rio Tuba port, which costs around php550. 

(Note: it’s best to ask your accommodation for help in booking transportation. Chances are, they can get the van to come straight to your hotel rather than you having to ride public transport to the Irawan terminal.)

Trips start at 4 am, and I highly recommend you get on the first one if you want to make the passenger boat! There’s only one a day! 

In Rio Tuba, get on a tricycle to the pier (php50), and get on the boat bound for Balabac, which I’ve been told costs php350. 

You’ll want to do this as early as possible since there is no set schedule for the boat. The “official” departure time is 12 pm, but it can leave as early as 10 am, or as late as 2 pm! 

Travel time to Balabac is roughly 3 hours. 

Note: this is one of the reasons why going DIY is still not a great idea for Balabac. Getting there is pretty rough and there are no set schedules.

What to do in Balabac

Now for the fun part! 

When all the planning is done, it’s time to enjoy these amazing islands. 

Here’s what you can expect from them. 

Things to do in Balabac #1: Swim in the CLEAREST Waters You’ll Ever See

I promise you won’t find clearer water anywhere in the world than in Balabac! 

Balabac is still untouched by mass tourism, and you can see it. 

The water here is so clear, it’ll put any other popular beach destination to shame (yes, even you Maldives) .

Its vibrant blue is guaranteed to pull you right into it, and you’ll LOVE it! 

Now, I’m going to write about each of the islands individually below. But the great thing is that ALL of them have this feature. 

Things to do in Balabac #2: Chill in the Finest White Sand You’ll Ever See

I keep saying “You’ll ever see” because I mean it! 

Aside from the water, the sand in Balabac’s islands is also unmatched. 

It’s the kind of sand that’s so fine and soft, that you’ll have a pretty hard time walking on it! 

Pair that with the endless Philippine sunshine, and you have an absolute tropical paradise. 

If you like sunbathing, Balabac is the perfect place to lay a blanket down on the sand and just enjoy the heat. 

Things to do in Balabac #3: Get Close to Hundreds of Turtles! 

“More or less 100.” 

That’s what my guide told me when I asked how many turtles were on Onok Island. 

And I don’t doubt it at all. 

From the moment your boat enters the pristine waters surrounding Onok, you’ll see turtle after turtle after turtle swimming around. 

Back at shore, you might even see the hatchlings! 

Take note though that this is special to Onok Island. 

I’m sure there are other turtles swimming around the other Balabac islands, but you’ll have to be lucky to see them – unlike in Onok where they are everywhere. 

Things to do in Balabac #4: Enjoy the Other Wildlife

It’s not just turtles in Balabac! 

Balabac is also famous for the starfish lying around the islands. 

You can also see some giant clams. 

And, if you’re lucky, even some sting rays. 

Now if you’re unlucky, you might run into crocodiles in Balabac town! (Don’t worry though, sightings are rare and attacks on tourists are non-existent) . 

Things to do in Balabac #5: Experience the Slow Life of Balabac Town

Some tour packages spend all their nights beach camping – skipping Balabac town altogether. 

While beach camping is fun, I feel that a trip wouldn’t be complete without visiting the actual Balabac island. 

In town, there isn’t too much to do. 

You can visit the market to see the Malaysian products they have for sale there (Balabac is so close to Malaysia, you’ll see Malaysian snacks, coke, and water bottles). 

You can take a short 15-minute walk up to the Balabac lighthouse, and enjoy a beautiful sunset as you watch the boats dock in the Balabac port. 

Other than that, there isn’t much to do around here. 

But it’s slow and cozy – something I appreciated a lot after 3 full days of non-stop action. 

Balabac Travel Map (All Balabac’s Islands)

Travel map coming soon! 

For now, here’s a rundown of the islands that you can visit! 

These are the islands listed in chronological order that I visited them! 

Tangkahan Island

Crystal clear water…

Powdery white sand…

What more could you ask for? 

As the first stop on our tour, I was instantly in love with this place. 

The great thing about this place is that it has a good mix of sand and shade. 

There’s a large sandy area stretching out to the sea. But once it gets too hot, you can retreat into the shade of the trees. 

As a lunch area, you’ll find several huts where you can enjoy a delicious meal prepped by your tour. 

You’ll also find hammocks where you can just chill while waiting for lunch. 

To be honest, Tangkahan is a great destination all by itself. 

But the crazy thing about Balabac is, EVERYTHING is so good, you’ll barely remember Tangkahan once you’ve visited everything, including…

Patawan Island

Patawan is another magical island. 

When we visited, we were given free complimentary coffee by the island’s residents, which was nice. 

Patawan is a little more developed than the other islands you’ll visit. 

There’s already a small resort there, and there was more construction going on when we visited. 

It’s still a very laid-back and chill place, but maybe not for long! 

In Patawan, there are a lot of beach chairs where you can relax while drinking your coffee or eating the snacks you bought at their sari-sari store. 

You can also go snorkeling.

The mini-reef isn’t great, but you can tell that this place is wild and untouched by the amount of fish they have in such a small reef! 

Punta Sebaring

A campsite! 

If you’re touring with the WanderWalkers , this is where you’ll be spending your nights. 

On my tour ( ATX travel ), we spent just one night here, but I loved it! 

You can sleep in a tent or a little hut with a mosquito net. 

The Punta Sebaring beach is facing east, so wake up early to experience one of the most magnificent sunrises you’ll ever see. 

Aside from that, it’s the same amazing blue water and white sand you get all over Balabac. 

There’s even a VERY long, uninterrupted stretch of sand on either side of the campsite. Sadly, we weren’t allowed to go there since it’s owned by a big corporation. 

Note: There are a lot of nik-niks (sandflies) in Punta Sebaring. Make sure to bring insect repellent to keep them away. 

Mansalagan Sandbar

Once you’ve been to Mansalagan Sandbar, you’ll have a hard time enjoying any other sandbar. 

This is the sandbar of sandbars. 

A super long stretch of powdery white sand, surrounded by nothing but the vibrant blue of the ocean. 

The water here is super refreshing, so aside from walking on the sand and getting pictures, make sure you swim around as well. 

You’ll also find plenty of starfish around here. 

All in all, this is currently my favorite sandbar in the Philippines! (And I’ve been to a lot too)

Caninbungan Island

“My gosh, walang pangit na isla dito!” (“my gosh, there are no ugly islands here!”)

That’s what one of our tour joiners exclaimed when he saw Caninbungan Island. 

And it’s true. 

You’d think a lunch spot island will just be ordinary. 

But in Balabac, even the lunch islands are extraordinary! 

Aside from the normal sand and sea, Caninungan is also full of coconut trees. 

You can ask your guide, and they’ll get some fresh coconuts for you to enjoy. 

Super good! 

Sicsican Island

Sicsican is one of the more developed islands. 

With a nice campsite and lots of available tents, some tour operators will let you spend your nights here. 

The island is a bit forested, but as always, it does have brilliant blue waters and powdery white sand (there is no island in Balabac without these).  

For us, Sicsican was a nice stopover before heading into Balabac town. 

There are some sari-sari stores here where you can buy snacks and coffee too. 

Also, this is also a turtle breeding site. 

Unfortunately, there weren’t any turtles when we visited. 

Balabac Island

The town! 

The town is a very small, slow one. 

We spent two nights in JD Lodge, one of the very few accommodations around here. 

If you’re going DIY, I highly recommend booking in advance since there aren’t many places to stay. 

Aside from that, there was the market and the lighthouse. 

All in all, a cozy town. 

It doesn’t have a spectacular beach as the other islands do, but I feel like this was a great addition to the itinerary! 

Candaraman Sandbar

I’m honestly running out of ways to describe these islands! 

Candaraman sandbar was another amazing stretch of sand surrounded by nothing but sea. 

I prefer Mansalagan over this one. 

But I’d say this comes as a close second in my list of best sandbars. 

There were also plenty of starfish here too! 

Onok Island

Saving the best for last.

All the islands already blew me away, but Onok was on a whole different level! 

Onok is quite far away from the rest of the islands, so getting there requires crossing a rough sea (even on a sunny day) , and it took over an hour to get here. 

But boy was it worth it! 

As you approach Onok, the water suddenly goes from a deep dark blue, into a bright, shining turquoise. 

The nearer you get, you’ll start to notice the turtles! 

There are hundreds of turtles swimming around here, it’s impossible not to see some. 

Then when you dock, you’ll once again be greeted by the whitest sand your feet will ever touch. 

Unlike some other islands, Onok has a very picturesque docking area, so be sure to grab some photos here. 

There are several huts where you can have lunch. 

Then after eating, you can swim with the turtles, or just relax the day away in this island paradise. 

After spending a few hours here, you can visit the nearby sandbar.

Or the giant clams area. 

Onok is the most popular island in Balabac, and I completely understand why. 

It’s not easy to beat all the other Balabac islands, but Onok is just THAT good! 

Balabac Budget and Itinerary

My total spending: php15,665 (airfare included)

• Airfare (CEB – PPS, PPS – CEB) – php2,400 (Cebu Pacific seat sale rate)
• Accommodation (1 night in PPS) – php300
• 4D3N Balabac tour by ATX Travel – php11,650
• Snacks/Water – php245
• Misc – php70
• Tip for the crew – php1,000

The tour package I got already included things like meals, boat transfers, entrance fees, environmental fees, and accommodation in Punta Sebaring and Balabac. 

I’d say if you crunch the numbers, you can save by going DIY as long as you have a group of at least four people. 

However, if you add in the hassle of traveling to a non-touristy area DIY, I’d say getting a group tour is worth the extra pesos. 

Balabac Itinerary

Here’s the itinerary I went on:

Day 0: 

• 9:00 pm – Arrive at PPS airport, check into accommodation

Day 1: 

• 3:30 am – Pickup from accommodation
• 5:00 am – Breakfast in Narra
• 9:00 am – Arrival in Buliluyan Port
• 10:00 am – Tour starts! 
• 10:30 am – Tangkahan Island / lunch
• 2:00 pm – Patawan Island / snacks
• 5:00 pm – Punta Sebaring / dinner / camping

Day 2: 

• 6:00 am – Call time / breakfast
• 8:00 am – Tour start! 
• 8:30 am – Mansalagan sandbar / starfishes
• 11:00 am – Caninbungan Island / lunch
• 2:30 pm – Sicsican Island
• 5:00 pm – Balabac Town / dinner / sleep

Day 3: 

• 8:00 am – Tour start!
• 9:00 am – Candaraman Sandbar
• 11:00 am – Onok Island! / lunch / swim with turtles
• 2:30 pm – Onok Island giant clam area
• 4:00 pm – Back in Balabac
• 5:00 pm – Hike to Balabac lighthouse / sunset

Day 4: 

• 4:00 am – Call time / light breakfast
• 6:00 am – Passenger boat to Buliluyan port
• 8:30 am – Arrive in Bulilyan port, van back to PPS
• 9:45 am – Stopover at Bataraza giant pineapple
• 11:00 am – Lunch in Brooke’s Point
• 3:00 pm – Arrive at PPS

You can ask your van driver to drop you off directly at the airport. Just make sure your flight isn’t earlier than 4 pm! 

Me, I spent another night in PPS, before heading to El Nid the next day. 

What to Bring to Balabac

Here are some things you should bring on your trip! 

• Insect Repellent – Balabac is rugged! There are nikniks and other insects on some islands, so you’ll want to have some repellent to keep them away! 
• Sunblock – Balabac is HOT. And you’ll visit at least two sandbars, maybe more depending on the tide. So make sure you have sunblock to protect your skin. 
• Some cash – Your tour package should be all-in, meaning that you don’t have to pay anything else. However, there are sari-sari stores on some islands, so you’ll want to have some loose change to buy some snacks! Also, there are no ATMs in Balabac, so it’s best to have some cash ready.
• Mask and Snorkel – If you have your own, bring it! When I visited, some of the joiners had to share masks because we didn’t have enough on our boat. Now, there aren’t too many snorkeling spots, but you’ll be glad you brought yours when you visit Onok. 
• Water Bottle – Your tour boat should have water readily available, but your own water tumbler is something that you’ll be glad you brought along. 
• First Aid Kit – Again, you’re going to be in the wild. That’s why having a first aid kit ready will be huge for you if you get hurt on the islands. Better safe than sorry! 
• (Optional) Your Own Tent – If your itinerary has tent camping, you may want to bring your own tent. 

As for things NOT to bring: 

• A LOT of Luggage – You’ll be sharing one boat with 10-14 people. It’s best to pack light, our guide recommended not more than 10kgs per passenger. I got away with slightly more than that, but that’s just because I was still going to El Nido and Port Barton after 😅
• Maarte (picky) Vibes – Remember! You’re going into the wild. Balabac isn’t developed like El Nido or Coron. Treat it a bit like how you would hiking – as a rugged adventure into the wild rather than a luxury beach escape. 

Balabac Tour Agencies

There are several tour providers in Balabac. 

If you’re unsure which one to pick, try to find one that is DOT accredited. 

ATX Travel and Tours

I went with ATX Travel and Tours, and I couldn’t be happier with the trip! 

The whole staff was very friendly and accommodating. 

Our tour guide Chris was very helpful and also friendly. And his helper, 13-year-old Junjun, also helped to make our even more unforgettable. 

For php11,650, this was a great package deal for me! 

I also loved how their itinerary included camping AND staying in town. 

WanderWalkers

Probably the most popular tour operator is the Wander Walkers, or just @balabacpalawan on Instagram. 

These guys get a lot of visitors, so make sure you book FAR in advance – at least two months (more if you’re traveling during peak season) . 

They are also more expensive than other tour operators. 

Whether they’re better than the rest or not, I can’t say. But I do feel like they are geared more towards foreigners.

We met their tour boat on some islands, and all their guests were foreigners. Whereas on our tour, we only had 2. 

I also know that they don’t stay in Balabac town. All their nights are spent in Punta Sebaring.

Punta Sebaring is a great campsite, no doubt, but I personally liked staying at Balabac town to see how life is on the islands. 

Other Tour Operators

If you search on Facebook, you’ll find that there are plenty of other tour operators available. 

Just shoot them a message! 

I sent out plenty of messages, but ATX was the fastest to reply, and also the most helpful, so I booked with them, which turned out to be a great decision. 

Also, be sure to check if they look legit. And try to read some customer reviews as well. 

I can personally vouch for ATX though. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Balabac

Still have questions?

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting Balabac!

Do I Need a Tour to Visit Balabac?

Technically no, but practically yes. Balabac isn’t developed for tourism yet, which is why joining an organized tour will make your life so much easier! 

What Are Balabac’s Travel Requirements? 

There are no travel requirements to enter Balabac! 

The same goes for flying into Puerto Princessa airport. 

Are There Crocodiles in Balabac?

Yes, but you never have to worry about them. These crocodiles are only found around Balabac town itself, not the various islands you visit. In an organized tour, you will never run into them. 

Is Balabac Near El Nido?

NO! El Nido is on the northern tip of Palawan, while Balabac is on the southern tip. Balabac is around 14 hours away from El Nido in total! 

This includes a 5-6 hour van or bus from El Nido to Puerto Princessa, a 5-hour van trip from Puerto Princessa to Rio Tuba or Buliluyan port, and finally a 3-hour boat ride to Balabac. 

What is Balabac Known For?

Balabac is known for having some of the best beaches in the Philippines! Since it is a relatively new tourist spot, Balabac doesn’t have as big of a crowd as El Nido or Coron, giving it an “untouched” feel. 

Is it Safe to Travel to Balabac?

Yes! As long as you travel with a licensed tour operator, you shouldn’t have any problems while visiting Balabac. 

The main concerns some people have with traveling Balabac are crocodiles and militant groups. 

But there are no crocodiles on the tourist islands, and there is no history of militant groups in Balabac (plus, there is a strong coast guard presence in the area since it’s close to international waters). 

What is the Best Month to Visit Balabac?

The best months to visit Balabac are either March or April. These are the main summer months in the Philippines, and you can mostly expect amazing weather all around. 

November to May is also an okay season to travel. 

While June to October may get a bit rainy. 

However, it’s important to note that the weather in the Philippines is extremely unpredictable. 

So even if it isn’t high season, you may still want to come and visit, because chances are you’ll get lucky with lovely weather and ZERO crowds if you visit during low season! 

How Many Hours from Puerto Princessa to Balabac?

Traveling from Puerto Princessa to Buliluyan Port (where tours begin) takes roughly 5 hours. 

If you’re heading to Balabac town, it’ll take another 3 hours from Buliluyan Port, for a total travel time of roughly 8 hours from Puerto Princessa to Balabac town. 

Is There a Ferry From Puerto Princessa to Balabac?

No. The ferry from mainland Palawan to Balabac is found in Rio Tuba port, 4-5 hours away from Puerto Princessa. 

The ferry only leaves once a day, so if you’re planning to take it, make sure you leave Puerto Princessa as early as 4 am so that you’ll make it on time! 

Which is the Starfish Island in Balabac?

Candaraman Sandbar is known as Starfish Island in Balabac! 

Here you’ll find plenty of Chocolate Chip starfish chilling around. 

They’re great for photos. 

However, please avoid picking them up! This can be harmful to the animals. 

Aside from Candaraman, you’ll also find starfishes in Mansalagan sandbar, Patawan island, and a few other islands in Balabac. 

Which Language is Spoken in Balabac?

There are several languages spoken in Balabac such as Molbog, Kagayanen, Palawano, and Tagalog. 

For Pinoy visitors, pretty much everyone there understands Tagalog. 

For foreigners, you won’t have any problems either!

There are plenty of people in Balabac who are fluent in English – especially your tour guides! 

How Far is Balabac to Malaysia? 

Balabac is roughly 60 km away from Banggi Island in Malaysia. 

On a clear day, you can even see the Malaysian island on the horizon from Balabac town! 

Is There Cell Signal in Balabac? (Globe vs Smart)

Yes, but it’s quite weak on most of the islands. I also found that Smart has a much better reception than Globe on all the islands. 

Notably, Punta Sebaring (the campsite) has an almost non-existent signal, Smart or Globe. 

While in Balabac town, you’ll find that there is a strong Smart signal!

Balabac is by far one of the most beautiful destinations I’ve been to. 

I hope this guide I’ve put together either helps you make your plans – or even pushes you to go and visit! 

Because trust me…

You are NOT going to regret it! 

So go and book those flights to Puerto Princessa. 

And get in touch with a Balabac tour operator today! 

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About the author 

Manoling Martinez

Hi! I'm Manoling, a 24-year-old backpacker from Cebu City. I'm on a mission to visit ALL 82 provinces of the Philippines. You can follow my adventures on my Instagram, or plan your trips here on my website!

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Thank you for your amazing guide. I have a question. I'd like to to go Sabah, Malaysia by ferry after travelling Balabac. Is it possible? And is there a immigration office at Balabac? I need to report them before heading to Banggi island, Malaysia. Many thanks.

Hey Junghyun.

Hmmmmm, as far as I’m aware, there’s no public ferry from Balabac to Malaysia. I’m pretty sure there are cargo boats, but not passenger vessels.

The public ferries between Philippines and Malaysia are from Zamboanga and Tawi-Tawi. The Zamboanga one is run by Aleson Shipping. I can’t find too much info about the Tawi-Tawi ferry.

Safe travels! Manoling

How to book accommodation in Balabac?

Hey Arsenia!

It’s quite difficult to DIY Balabac. There’s no online booking, and most of the lodges there don’t have an online presence. So you may just have to show up and inquire.

If you want to book ahead, your best bet is to contact a travel agency from Balabac. You can try ATX Travel, I did my tour with them.

That said, if you’re not going to DIY, just contact a tour operator, and they’ll take care of your accommodation for you. 🙂

UPDATED BALABAC TRAVEL GUIDE 2024: DIY Budget, Itinerary, Travel Tips and More 

Balabac palawan trip guide and diy itinerary.

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2024 DIY Travel Guide  to Balabac Palawan 

Table of Contents

N estled at the southwestern and farthermost tip of Palawan is the Balabac group of islands. For those who don’t know, Balabac is a secluded area of raw paradise with turquoise waters, pristine white island beaches, beautiful flora and fauna, and a preserved culture among the locals. Read our Balabac Travel Guide below:

The remote municipality resting in the Sulu Sea is just a dot between Palawan and Sabah, Malaysia. With 31 islands and islets, Balabac is one of the places to visit if you want to experience one of the best beaches in the Philippines, particularly one in Palawan that could rival the beauty of El Nido and Coron .

This 2023 Travel Guide to Balabac Palawan Blog aims to provide helpful budget tips, DIY Travel tips, recommended hotels, places to visit, sample itineraries, places to eat, and more.

Best time to visit Balabac, Palawan

As a beach destination, summer is the best time to visit Balabac. The dry seasons of April and May are the best times to visit the island since the sea is perfectly calm on most days during these months.

You may also visit Balabac from December to February, which is pretty good. However, these months are also the amihan season in Palawan, making the waves particularly rough on the beaches. Of course, you should also consider the general weather updates whenever you want to schedule your trip.

How to get to Balabac (from Manila)

Balabac is far from Manila compared to other beach destinations in Palawan. There are no direct Balabac flights; the fastest way is via Puerto Princesa City.

• You have to travel at least 1.5 hours from Manila to Puerto Princesa International Airport by plane. Once there, you must spend at least 10 hours or a full day to get to Balabac.
• The first leg of your long Balabac journey is a trip from Puerto Princesa to Rio Tuba. You must ride a tricycle from the airport to the terminal for your trip to Rio Tuba.
• You can ride a van or bus from the San Jose Terminal in Puerto Princesa for at least 4-5 hours to Rio Tuba.
• You must take a boat ride from Rio Tuba to Balabac Island and spend another four hours on the sea.

Getting around in Balabac

Since Balabac is still a remote area, you only have three transportation options to get to where you want to go: a tricycle, a bus, or a van.

The fastest transport option is a van since it has a few stopovers to make, and you usually ride one in a terminal. Of course, you must ride a boat if you want to go island hopping since the islands and islets in Balabac are spread far apart.

Places to stay in Balabac.

If you’re too tired, or it’s already too late to pursue your travel from Rio Tuba to Balabac, you can opt to swing by a few places to stay for the night. Be warned that most accommodations and facilities in Balabac are basic, so looking for fancy resorts or restaurants is out of the list.

Here are a few hotels that offer overnight stays with affordable fees that you can choose from:

Balabac Island Accommodation in Poblacion, Balabac

There are only two accommodations available so far in Poblacion.

JD Lodging (Sing and Swing Lodge) provides two options for lodging. You may go for their basic room with a fan or spend more when you go for a room with air conditioning priced at 1,000php.

Contact info: 0910-662-0073 Visit their FB Page

• 400php for 2pax
• 250php for 1pax

MLK Lodging

MLK Lodging provides a bare room with an electric fan and a comfortable room. Although the former has an air-conditioned room, this option is much cheaper than JD Lodging.

Contact info: 0939-517-6169

• 400 for 2pax

Balabac Island Accommodation in Rio Tuba

White Haven Lodge

White Haven Lodge also offers a bare room with a fan and a comfortable room for P300. The lodge is the best accommodation in Rio Tuba, given its proximity to the van terminal, and the front desk also knows the boat schedule from there to Balabac.

• 300php for 2pax

Dewelyn Lodging House

Address: Brgy. Rio Tuba, Bataraza, Palawan Contact: 0999034854

Offers Fully airconditioned and Ordinary Fan Rooms. They are open 24 Hours with a round-the-clock power supply. The lodging-house also provides free WIFI.

Best places to eat in Balabac

Since Balabac remains a remote community of locals, fancy restaurants are not something you’d quickly find in the area. On the other hand, the island has plenty of eateries you can try that serve delicious rice meals and other dishes. The upside is that you can eat good meals cheaply and experience great local dishes.

Wi-fi and Internet access

You can bring your own mobile Wi-Fi to Balabac for internet access. However, the internet connection in Balabac is intermittent, so it’ll be hard to establish a decent connection most of the time. Call and text functions are also available, but most of the islands in Balabac don’t always have good signals.

Things to do and see in Balabac

Balabac has plenty to offer as an island paradise for the ultimate backpacker and tourists who wish to enjoy one of the best remote islands in Palawan. Here are some things to see and do in Balabac:

Visit Balabac’s own white sand beach on Bugsuk Island

Punta Sebaring Beach rivals the White Beach of Boracay for powdery, fine, and blinding white sand beaches. Not only that, Punta Sebaring is the Philippines’ longest white sand beach which is 3x longer than Boracay.

Go island hopping 

If you have enough cash to burn and want to experience the best of Balabac, you can go island hopping and visit exciting spots. Here is the list of must-visit islands in Balabac:

• Patawan Island
• Patonggong Island
• Bugsok/Sebaring Island
• Canibungan Island
• Candaraman Island (sand bar)
• Pulaw Bato Island (sightseeing)
• Camiaran Island (pink sand beach in Balabac)

Hop on a land tour

While the beaches of Balabac are a must-see, you shouldn’t miss out on the scenic views that the land of the islands has to offer as well. Climb the top of the Spanish-colonial Cape Melville Lighthouse and party to the treacherous strait between the Philippines and Malaysia.

Adventure Trek

If you enjoy mountains and trekking, there are a few trails you can go try, like Melville Peak, Malaking Ilog Peak, and Italawon Peak, to name a few. You may want to check out a few historical markers, like the old Spanish Fort in Ulitan, Ramos Island, and Larindon Bay, with its Spanish ruins.

Get the ultimate beach experience at Onuk Island.

If you’re a sucker for beaches, lounging in the sun, and swimming in crystal-clear waters, a visit to Onuk Island is definitely for you.

Visit the Pink Island of Camiaran

If you haven’t seen any pink sand beaches, the Pink beach of Camiaran will make you rethink the color pink in sand beaches. The small island has one of the finest pink sand beaches in the Philippines and is also well-known for its beautiful coral gardens, making it a nesting place for sea turtles.

Snorkel at Pulau Bato and Sicsican Island

If you’re one for adventure and beautiful underwater views, the Nasubata Reef and Sicsican Island are two places where you can go snorkeling and enjoy its rich marine life.

Shop for pasalubong at Marabon

Marabon is a floating village in Balabac. Due to its proximity to Sabah, Malaysia, many products being sold here are made in Malaysia. Instant Mee Goreng? Check! Malaysian Chocolates? Check! Pasalubong for Marites? Check!

Bird Watching

Balabac Island is home to various endemic species. It is the home of birds like the grey imperial pigeon (Ducula pickeringii), Philippine cockatoo (Cacatua haematuropygia), blue-headed Racket-tail (Prioniturus platenae), and the Palawan hornbill (Anthracoceros marchei).

Sample Balabac Travel Itinerary and Trip Budget

To help you organize your trip, we created a sample Balabac Itinerary and travel budget:

5 days Balabac itinerary

• 8am — Arrival at Puerto Princesa Airport
• Transfer from Puerto Princesa Airport to San Jose Terminal via tricycle
• Bus / Van Ride from San Jose Terminal to Rio Tuba
• Arrival in Rio Tuba and Hotel Checkin
• Overnight in Rio Tuba
• 7am — Tricycle to Rio Tuba pier
• Balabac island hopping
• (Tour B) Visit Patawan Island, Mansalangan Island, Punta Sebaring Beach in Bugsuk Island.
• You can also visit Patongong Island and Anjela Sandbar
• Back to Hotel
• 7am — Balabac island-hopping the Second Day
• (Tour A) Canabungan Island, Sicsican Island (Snorkeling site, Candaramann Island, and Sandbar.
• You can also visit Secam Island and Camiaran Pink Sand Island
• 7am — Balabac island Land tour on the third day
• (Tour C) Melville Lighthouse, Nasubata Reef / Pulau Bato, and Pink Island.
• Onuk Island, a.k.a Roughton Island
• Arrival in Poblacion, Balabac Island
• Check-in at Balacac accommodation
• Rest in Poblacion, Balabac Palawan
• Travel Back to Puerto Princesa

Balabac Budget and Expenses Breakdown

• Puerto Princesa Airport to San Jose Terminal tricycle — PHP100
• Puerto Princesa to Rio Tuba Fare per person – PHP450
• The boat ride from Balabac to Rio Tuba  (One Way)- PHP350

Money-saving tips for your Balabac trip

Going to Balabac on a budget is very much possible. To save on costs, it’s better to travel to Balabac with your friends or family or both. A group tour is much cheaper than when you just go at it alone since most of the things you’ll need to enjoy your stays – like tents/hammocks, transportation, full board meals, local guides, and even insurance – will be provided for in a packaged tour.

Of course, you can also do it DIY style, where you decide where you want to go and which places you want to visit. The island hopping is the most expensive part of going to Balabac, where you’d need to spend at least 8000php for two days. On the other hand, you don’t have to pay that much if you just visit nearby islands like Sicsican, Punta Sebaring, and Candaraman – which only cost about 2000php.

Balabac Travel Tips

• Get a tour package and join group tours with other travelers instead of renting your own boat or getting a private tour.
• Bring extra cash; there are no ATM machines in Balabac Town proper and Rio Tuba.
• Always bring an emergency kit and essential medicines.

Looking for Balabac Palawan Tour Packages? Here’s a list of boat rental and tour operators that you can contact:

• SHAFARAH’S TRAVEL & TOURS SMART# 0946-2640-988 / GLOBE# 0965-1976-744 / TEL # 433-0740
• Kilometer Zero PH by Kap Andong (+63) 920 421 4583 / (+63) 926 685 9095 | Boat rental and tour operator
• Kuya Mark Anthony +63 999 470 9484 | Boat rental and tour operator
• Rombo Balabac Adventure by Kuya Renato Principe +63 929 140 3125 | Boat and tour operator
• Balabac Expedition by Fidel ( FB Page ) (+63) 918 2571 499 / (+63) 999 561 4998 / (+63) 995 933 3321 | Boat rental and tour operator 

Source: Balabac Tourism

All in all, going to Balabac is a definite challenge for the ultimate backpacker and bakasyunista. Balabac may not be worth the time and effort for flashpackers,  considering the 10+ long hours of travel time, but it’s typical for experienced adventure seekers.

Still, if you’re a fan of beautiful beaches, pristine island views, uncrowded places, and a place to rest and relax, then Balabac is a worthy place to try.

Have you been to Balabac, Palawan? Help us improve this 2022 Travel Guide to Balabac Blog by sharing your personal Balabac travel tips and personal recommendations.

Looking for the Best Hotels and Resorts in Balabac, Palawan? Visit Agoda to save time and money on your hotel selection, with millions of reviews and options.

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Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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Guide to Balabac Palawan: Breathtaking Secluded Islands in the Philippines

Best Time to Go to Balabac Palawan

Dry season | november to may, climate and weather, what to wear, how to go to balabac palawan.

• From Manila
• From Puerto Princesa

How to Get Around Balabac Palawan

Where to stay in balabac palawan.

• Homestays and Guesthouses

Resorts and Beach Camps

Top things to do and tourist spots in balabac palawan, relax in onok island, marvel at the views at camiaran island (pink island), enjoy the white sand at punta sebaring beach, chill at candaraman island and snorkel at starfish sandbar, see the dolphin-shaped sands of patawan island, stroll along mansalangan sandbar, gaze into the blue waters of tangkahan island, snorkel in the waters of sicsican island and pulau bato (nasubata reef), climb to see cape melville lighthouse, explore indalawan falls and indalawan beach from balabac town, balabac palawan sample itinerary, day 1: travel to puerto princesa and/or rio tuba, day 2: arrival in balabac + island hopping tour, day 3: balabac island-hopping tour 2, day 4: balabac island-hopping tour 3, day 5: departure from balabac, balabac palawan travel tips and faqs.

• Are there ATMs in Balabac, Palawan?
• Is it safe to go to Balabac, Palawan?
• Is there mobile or phone signal in Balabac, Palawan?

Are there any restrictions or permits required in Balabac?

What should i bring for my trip to balabac, is there anything else i should take note of when visiting balabac.

The Phillippines is a country known for its countless pristine beaches scattered across its 7,640-plus islands. One of the best places to explore the white sand beaches in the Philippines is Palawan . This province in the Luzon group of islands is famous for its tourist destinations like El Nido , Coron , and Puerto Princesa . In recent years, Port Barton and the rest of San Vicente have also gained popularity among tourists who want to see a quieter side of Palawan.

BEST DEAL: Click here to book a 4-Day Balabac Palawan tour package

But one of the underrated places in the Philippines that is well worth a visit is Balabac, the southernmost municipality in Palawan. Because of its location, it is actually nearer to Sabah in East Malaysia than Puerto Princesa, the capital city of Palawan.

Balabac is slowly gaining popularity, thanks to its breathtaking beaches, unspoiled islands, and turquoise waters that rival those of other Palawan tourist spots . Some travelers even refer to it as the Maldives of the Philippines.

• Check out our list of Maldives-like resorts in the Philippines

If you’re planning to add the municipality to your Palawan itinerary , this Balabac travel guide will help you by giving you what you need to know to have a hassle-free and enjoyable trip.

See our popular Palawan Tours and Activities

Planning when to go to Balabac is important, not only because most of the tourist spots and activities here can be found or are held outdoors, but also because you’ll need to ride a boat to reach Balabac’s islands. To ensure a safe and fuss-free transfer to the municipality, you’ll need to schedule your visit during the dry season. Generally, this is the best time to visit the Philippines .

The best months to go to Balabac, Palawan is March to May , as these are the hottest months in the municipality. Visiting at this time gives you a high chance of calmer seas, which means smoother boat rides. However, do note that this is also the summer months in the Philippines, and because Holy Week falls during these months, it is also considered peak season for travel in the country. 

You may also visit from November to February , which is still considered the dry season. It won’t be as warm as March to May, but you can expect a small chance of rain during this period.

You can expect the weather in Balabac to be warm and humid year-round. However, you can expect rain during the rainy season. The hottest month in Balabac is usually May, which averages a 31.73ºC (89.11ºF) temperature, while the coolest is February, which averages a  25.48ºC (77.86ºF) temperature. 

The wettest months are usually July to October, so avoid traveling to Balabac during this period. To ensure a stress-free trip, make sure to periodically check weather updates as your vacation comes nearer.

The weather in Balabac is usually warm, and since most of its tourist attractions are islands and beaches, it’s best to pack light and breathable clothes, especially if you’re visiting during the summer months. Also, remember to include in your packing list sunglasses, hats, and sunblock to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.

From Manila 

There are no direct flights from Manila to Balabac. The nearest airport to Balabac is the Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS), so you will have to check which Manila to Puerto Princesa flights will work best for your schedule.

After arriving in Puerto Princesa, you may head directly to the port and catch a boat to Balabac, Palawan. But if your flight isn’t early enough to catch the bus to your preferred port, you will need to stay at least one night before continuing your journey to Balabac, as it would be hard to catch the boat that will take you to your final destination on the same day.

To ensure your comfort before a long journey, it’s best to stay in Puerto Princesa hotels . You should also consider booking Puerto Princesa vacation packages , some of which come complete with flights, accommodations, and Puerto Princesa Airport transfers .

If you haven’t explored Puerto Princesa yet, it’s a good idea to spend a day or two here so you can see some of its tourist attractions via Puerto Princesa tours . It would be a shame to be near the UNESCO World Heritage Site Puerto Princesa Underground River and not visit it.

See our popular Puerto Princesa Tours and Activities

Shared puerto princesa underground river tour in palawan with lunch & hotel transfers, private puerto princesa airport palawan to or from any puerto princesa city hotel transfer service, palawan puerto princesa honda bay island hopping tour with lunch | starfish, luli, & cowrie islands, from puerto princesa .

Puerto Princesa is the main gateway to Balabac, but if you’re in other places in Palawan, you can arrange transfers to the capital city. Puerto Princesa transfers are usually available from destinations like El Nido and Port Barton in San Vincente.

Once you are in Puerto Princesa, ride a tricycle or a jeepney to the Irawan Bus Terminal. From here, you can ride a bus or a van. There are two ports that you can go to from Irawan Bus Terminal: Rio Tuba Pier or Buliluyan Port. Both can be found in the municipality of Bataraza.

Option 1: Rio Tuba Pier

From the Irawan Bus Terminal, take the bus to Rio Tuba. The 245.9-km journey will take around four to five hours. There are usually two trips scheduled for the day, one at 8:30 AM and one at 10:30 AM. From Rio Tuba, you can take a tricycle to the pier.

There is usually only one boat per day that ferries passengers from Rio Tuba Pier to Balabac. There is no fixed schedule, and the boat leaves between 9 AM and 2 PM, so it’s best to take the earlier bus. If you miss the ferry for the day, you’d need to book accommodations in Rio Tuba and head to the port early the next day to catch the boat. 

The boat trip from Rio Tuba Port to Balabac Island usually takes three to four hours. After arriving at Balabac, make sure to take note to familiarize yourself with the port, as you will need to head back here at least a day before your departure to reserve your seat for the ferry back to Rio Tuba. There is only one boat, which usually departs at about 6 AM. Even if you have reservations, make sure to arrive early, as latecomers may lose their seats to passengers on standby.

See our popular Puerto Princesa Transfers

Option 2: buliluyan port.

From the Irawan Bus Terminal, take the bus to Buliluyan Port. The journey of about 280.2km will take around five hours. There is usually only one scheduled bus trip that departs at 8:30 AM, so make sure you don’t miss it! This bus goes straight to the port.

There are no public ferries to Balabac from Buliliyan Port, but you can hire a boat to take you to one of Balabac’s islands. You can also check with your tour operator or accommodations in Balabac if they can hire a boat on your behalf. Depending on where in Balabac you are headed, the boat trip can take one to three hours.

While it is possible to arrange everything yourself and go on a DIY tour, because of the long travel time that involves multiple transfers and requires tricky scheduling, it is recommended to book a Balabac Palawan tour package inclusive of transfers, accommodations, and tours .

Within the bigger islands like Balabac, Bugsuk, and Bancalan Islands, you can hire tricycles to take you around as you explore. With some islands, you can also rent a motorcycle so you can ride around the area yourself. 

If you are staying in Balabac Town, the attractions are close enough to each other that you can usually just walk from one place to another. For a hassle-free experience, you may also book Balabac, Palawan tours.

See our popular Palawan Island Hopping Tours

While Balabac, Palawan has been gaining popularity recently, don’t expect a lot of options when it comes to accommodations. The municipality is remote, and there are only limited accommodations. To ensure that you will have a place to stay during your trip, book accommodations in advance, especially during the peak season. Also, note that these accommodations are basic, so don’t expect luxury.

See our popular Palawan Vacation Packages

Homestays and guesthouses .

These basic accommodations can mostly be found on the two big islands, Balabac Island and Bugsuk Island. In Balabac Island, you’ll find most guesthouses and homestays at Balabac Town Proper (Poblacion), while in Bugsuk Island, your best option is the barangay of Sebaring.

Some of these accommodations only offer fan rooms with a shared bathroom, so if you want added comfort, make sure to inquire if an air-conditioned room with a private bathroom is available.

Camping 

There are many islands in Balabac that you can camp in, but make sure to plan this in advance as some may require fees. Some islands where you can find camping grounds are Bugsuk Island, Onok (or Onuk) Island, Catamaran Island, and Camiaran Island. 

If you booked Palawan tour packages to Balabac with campsite accommodations, check the inclusions. Some of these packages already include camping gear, such as tents, so you don’t have to bring your own.

Also scattered throughout the islands are several resorts and beach camps. Again, these accommodations are not four- or five-star ones, but they may be able to provide you with more comfortable accommodations compared to the guesthouses and campsites.

Some beachfront resorts offer bungalow accommodations, cottages, and even rooms on stilts, while beach camps offer tent accommodations that are already set up and ready to sleep in. You can find some of these accommodations on Patawan Island, Balabac Island, and Onok Island.

The municipality is made up of several islands, so it’s no surprise that the majority of the Balabac, Palawan tourist spots and attractions are pristine beaches surrounded by crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life. Depending on the ownership of some islands, you may have to pay a fee or ask for permission to visit, but your tour operator can easily arrange this when you book Philippine island-hopping tours .

• Read about some of the most beautiful sandbars in the Philippines

Coron Island Hopping Tour to Kayangan Lake & Barracuda Lake | Palawan Super Ultimate Package

Private el nido palawan lio airport to or from any el nido town hotel transfer service.

This sandbar is connected to Byan Island, east of Matangule Island. This picturesque and snaking sandbar stretches as far as the eye can see, making it perfect for a relaxing stroll while enjoying the sea breeze.

Balabac has an abundance of stunning islands, and Tangkahan Island is one of them. This island boasts sandy beaches, towering palm trees, and surrounding waters that have different hues of blue.

While most of the islands and beaches in Balabac are great spots for snorkeling, if you really want to see lush marine life, head to either Sicscian Island or Nasubata Reef, which is also known as Pulao Bato. Sicsican Island is known for its flourishing coral garden, while Nasubata Reef is often found teeming with colorful fish.

On Balabac Island, you’ll find a Spanish-era lighthouse that began operating in 1892. Back then, it guided ships crossing the waters between Balabac and the northern islands of Sabah, Malaysia. While it is no longer used today, the 90-foot-tall lighthouse still looks impressive in the daylight, even as plants and trees are slowly reclaiming its structures. 

Since they are located on the same island, you can reach Barangay Indalawan from Balabac Town via land transportation. If you’re riding a motorcycle or a tricycle, expect a bumpy trip to Indalawan Falls and Indalawan Beach, as you may need to pass by dirt roads along the way. The trip will be well worth it, though, as these two untouched sites will give you the chance to reconnect with nature or just enjoy a peaceful and quiet exploration.

Because of the long travel to get here, it is best to allot at least five days for your Balabac trip. This will allow you to have three days to explore Balabac. If you have more time and want to explore more of the municipality, you may also extend your trip to seven or more days.

Flight to Puerto Princesa

Overnight at a hotel in Puerto Princesa or land travel to Rio Tuba and check-in at accommodations

Boat ride to Balabac from Rio Tuba Pier or Buliluyan Port

Island-hopping tour to Tangkahan Island, Patawan Island, and Punta Sebaring Beach

Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing

Lunch served picnic-style on one of the islands

Overnight camping at Punta Sebaring Beach

Enjoy breakfast 

Island-hopping tour to Mansalangan Sandbar, Canibungan Island, and Sicsican Island

Back to Balabac Town and check-in at accommodations

Island-hopping tour to Candaraman Sandbar and Onok Island, where you can swim with turtles and explore the giant clam area

Travel back to Balabac Island

Hike to Cape Melville Lighthouse and watch the sunset

Free time to relax, pack, and prepare for departure.

Dinner and overnight stay at accommodations

Breakfast and checkout from your accommodations

Depart from Balabac via ferry or boat to Rio Tuba Pier or Buliluyan Port

From Rio Tuba Pier or Buliluyan Port, travel back to Puerto Princesa by bus or van

Depart from Puerto Princesa International Airport to your next destination.

Balabac, Palawan is an amazing destination to visit, but thanks to its remote location, not a lot of people have had the chance to explore it, and many may have questions about this destination. Check out the following tips and frequently asked questions so you can have a smooth and fuss-free trip.

See our popular Best Philippines Itinerary Tour Packages

5-day nature & islands adventure package to puerto princesa and el nido palawan, 4-day fascinating culture & nature tour package to cebu & bohol with accommodations & transfers, scenic 1-week beaches & nature vacation package to cebu, puerto princesa & el nido palawan, are there atms in balabac, palawan .

Since it is a remote municipality, there are no ATMs in Balabac. It is best to bring all the cash that you would need for the entire trip. It’s best to withdraw Philippine currency either in Manila or Puerto Princesa. If you’re staying a night in Rio Tuba, you will also find some ATMs in the barangay.

Is it safe to go to Balabac, Palawan? 

Balabac is generally safe for all tourists, but as with any destination, travelers should always exercise the right amount of caution and be mindful of all the health and travel risks that come with the trip. It is also best to be informed about the local customs, traditions, and laws so that you don’t accidentally disrespect the locals or break the law. 

Is there mobile or phone signal in Balabac, Palawan? 

The weak mobile signal in Balabac, Palawan is not reliable, so if you need to update your friends and family or download important information, it is best to do so while you are in Puerto Princesa or other bigger cities and towns.

Since some islands in Balabac are privately owned, visiting them may require fees or permits. This can be arranged by your tour operator.

Palawan is the only place in the Philippines with malaria, and while the local government is taking steps to eradicate the disease in the province, it is best to take precautions and bring and use mosquito repellant.

Also, take note that because Balabac is remote and has limited infrastructure and access to modern amenities, you should bring your own creature comforts and necessities like drinking water, food, and medicine. Some areas also have no electricity so it is recommended to bring a power bank and charge it when possible.

As with any place you visit, do not litter. If you have trash with you but there are no garbage bins in sight, hold on to it until you find an environmentally friendly way to dispose of it.

Start planning your trip to Balabac, Palawan

The travel to Balabac, Palawan is not for the faint of heart, but after reaching this remote and untouched destination, you will instantly realize that the time and effort required to get there is worth it.

In fact, Balabac's isolation from the main island of Palawan adds to its charm. While there are no luxurious resorts and strong mobile signal here, it gives visitors the chance to go back to basics, reconnect with nature, and shut away the noise of the modern world. 

Give yourself the chance to be recentered when you explore the southernmost municipality of Palawan and arrange your trip to Balabac today.

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Balabac Travel Guide: Explore the Paradise in Southern Palawan

In summer of 2013, I ventured in the islands of Balabac with a sole intention to see the old lighthouse of Cape Melville . Never did I imagine that the place will move me so deeply. Today, the place has become one of the most sought after offbeat destinations in the Philippines! I came up with this guide to share what I have learned based on my experience and to make it easier for you to plan your visit to this side of Palawan. Provided in this Balabac travel guide are latest information on hot to get there, accommodation, activities, sample itinerary, budget and more.

About Balabac

Balabac is a secluded and raw paradise in the farthermost and south-westernmost tip of the province of Palawan. Where virgin island beaches and perfectly turquoise water are normal scenery, the chorus of rare birds and animals is the typical music!

Situated in the rich water of Sulu Sea, Balabac is a group of 31 islands and islets blessed with unspoiled fine sandy beaches, endemic flora and fauna and rich marine life. It is the last of the last frontier, set in the congruity of the Molbog tribe and the local people.

Balabac is one of, if not the most diverse and dense bio-diversities in the world. It is home to endemic mouse deer known locally as pilandok , countless species of endemic and migratory birds, rare plants and insects, 27 true and 34 associated species of mangrove, giant Sulu Sea Pearls and variety of marine species such as sharks, dolphins, tuna, whales, rays, sea turtles and a whole lot more!

Visit Bugsuk Island, bask on its wide stretch of fine white sandy shore and see its huge population of mouse deer; trek to the century old Spanish era lighthouse of Melville; see the old and forgotten fort of Balabac in Ulitan; find the hidden waterfalls in the mountains; immerse with the unique culture of Molbog tribe; dive the unbelievably vivid underwater world of Sulu Sea, Balabac Strait and West Philippine Sea.

Be mesmerized with the pink sand beach of Comiran Island; go island and beach hopping in Onuk, Candaraman, Matangala, Canabungan, Nasubata, Ramos, Bugsuk, Siksikan, Secam, Patongong, Lumbucan, Mangsee and other islands and sandbars that dot the archipelago; go firefly watching in Sebaring; for more daring adventure, see the crocodiles in the mangroves and rivers; choose your own adventure, explore on your own pace and discover the unexploited beauty of the place!

Live in the harmony of nature and culture, choose the road less traveled, follow the offbeat trail to Palawan’s best – Balabac Islands!

How to Get to Balabac

Balabac has two airstrips, one in Bugsuk Island and one in Candaraman Island. Both can accommodate small aircraft although no commercial airline flies to these airstrips today. A new airport in the main island of Balabac is planned under Public-Private Partnership program of the government and intended for commercial operation but there is no timeframe set for this project yet.

By Land and Sea

Rio Tuba in the town of Bataraza is the gateway to Balabac Islands. A public boat departs daily at around noon from Rio Tuba Port to mainland Balabac, travel time is approximately four (4) hours and fare is around P500 one-way. Take note that there is no fix schedule of boat departure as it depends on sea condition and passenger traffic. It is best to be there as early as 10AM. Alternatively, you can also proceed to Buliluyan Port, the southernmost village of Bataraza where you can charter a boat for at least P3000 to Balabac. Buliluyan Port is the nearest port of mainland Palawan to Balabac.

Rio Tuba is accessible by land from Puerto Princesa City. Buses and vans regularly depart from San Jose Terminal of Puerto Princesa to Rio Tuba starting at 4AM up to 9PM daily. Fare is for as low as P300 for non-aircon bus and as high as P500 for aircon shuttle or bus, travel time is approximately five (5) to six (6) hours.

Puerto Princesa City is connected by air from Manila via Philippine Airlines, Ais Asia Philippines, Cebu Pacific, Air Swift and Sunlight Air; from Iloilo and Cebu via Philippine Airlines, AirAsia Philippines and Cebu Pacific Air; and from Busuanga, Cuyo, San Vicente, Sipalay and Taytay via Air Juan.

By ferry, 2Go Travel serves Manila to Puerto Princesa via Coron once a week. Meanwhile, Montenegro Shipping Lines and Milagrosa Shipping Lines have regular trips to Puerto Princesa from Iloilo via Cuyo.

Going Around and Away

The municipality of Balabac is an archipelago of 31 island and islets, the main mode of transport is by boat. There is no public boat that goes from island to island since most locals here own one for their use. For tourists aiming to go on island hopping, you may charter a boat from the locals but there is no standard tariff for boat rental, rate depends on boat capacity and distance of travel but it usually starts at P5000 per day for a boat that could fit a maximum of six passengers, meals not included.

If you want convenience and hassle free all inclusive tours around Balabac, various local organizers mount packaged tours. Contact Balabac Island Safare the Best of Kap Andong Noe at +639182482366 or Rombo Balabac of Sir Renato Principe at +639291403125 for schedule and rates.

In the main island of Balabac, habal-habal or motorbike is the main mode of transportation around the town.

Going out of Balabac, catch the daily boat to Rio Tuba that leaves at around noon. Like the Rio Tuba to Balabac boat, there is no fix schedule of departure for it depends on sea condition and passenger traffic.

Where to Stay in Balabac

There is no high end resort in town, only small time lodging houses that are located in Balabac Poblacion. To date, here are two places where tourists can stay in the mainland:

JD Lodging House (Sing and Swing Karaoke Bar) Poblacion, Balabac

MLK Lodging House Poblacion, Balabac

Meanwhile, if you plan to stay outside of mainland Balabac, expect only basic accommodation in the outlying islands.

Onuk Island has few rooms to accommodate guests. The island is privately owned by the family of the Mayor of Balabac and prior arrangement is necessary for tourists visiting or staying in the island. You may get in touch with local officials for the arrangement.

Another great place to stay is Punta Sebaring in Bugsuk Island. The place boasts of wide and long stretch of perfectly fine and white sand. One may pitch a tent or stay in the cottage owned by the family of Sir Renato Principe for a minimal fee.

There are other virgin islands and beaches in Balabac where you can pitch a tent, some are privately owned so it is advisable that a local guide accompanies you to these islands.

Things to Do in Balabac

• Visit the century-old Spanish lighthouse of Melville
• Bask in the wide and long stretch of fine and white sand in Punta Sebaring
• See the beautiful mangrove areas of Sebaring, Bugsuk, Melville and other coastal areas in town
• Enjoy the best view of sunrise and sunset
• Go snorkeling, free diving or scuba diving (bring your own equipment)
• Go island and beach hopping at Onuk (Roughton), Nasubata, Candaraman, Matangala, Canabungan, Ramos, Bugsuk, Bowen, Siksikan, Secam, Patongong, Pandanan, Lumbucan, Salingsingan, Mangsee and other islands, islets and sandbars that dot the archipelago
• Visit the pink sand beach of Comiran Island
• Dolphin watching
• See the endemic mouse deer, wild monkeys, crocodiles and other animals in the wild
• Bird-watching: Balabac is one of the best spots in the Philippines for bird watching as the archipelago is home to variety of migratory and even endemic birds like Grey Imperial Pigeon (Ducula pickeringii), Philippine Cockatoo (Cacatua haematuropygia), Blue-headed Racket-tai (Prioniturus platenae), Palawan Hornbill (Anthracoceros marchei) and Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi), among others
• Go firefly watching at night
• Immerse with unique culture of Molbog tribe
• Trek Melville Peak, Italawon Peak and Malaking Ilog Peak
• See the hidden waterfalls in the mountains of Balabac
• Check out the Historical Marker in Ramos Island, the old Spanish Fort in Ulitan and the ruins of Spanish structure at the mouth of Larindon Bay (below the lighthouse of Melville)
• Shop for Malaysian products

Sample Balabac Itinerary

Day 0: 2100H: Departure from Puerto Princesa to Rio Tuba (Bus)

Day 1: 0300H – 0330H: Arrival in Rio Tuba / Check-in at White Heaven Lodging 0330H – 1000H: Rest / Sleep 1000H – 1300H: Brunch / Assembly 1300H – 1600H: Rio Tuba to Punta Sebaring (Bugsuk Island) 1600H onwards: Free time at Punta Sebaring / explore the beach / sunset / dinner / lights off

Day 2: 0600H: Call time 0600H – 0800H: Breakfast / pack-up 0800H – 1700H: Island Hopping (Nasubata, Onuk, Comiran) / Melville Lighthouse Trek 1700H – 1830H: Melville to Balabac Poblacion 1830H – 2000H: Arrival in Balabac Poblacion / dinner / proceed to lodge 2000H onwards: Check-in at JD Lodge (Sing and Swing / rest

Day 3: 0600H: Call time 0600H – 0800H: Visit the old fort in Ulitan and the unique coconut tree with branching trunk at Katogokan 0800H – 0900H: Breakfast / pack-up 0900H – 1600H: Island Hopping: Candaraman, Siksikan, Ramos Island (see the historical marker), Canabungan 1600H onward: Arrival in Punta Sebaring / free time / dinner

Day 4: 0600H: Call time 0600H – 0800H: Sunrise / brekfast 0800H – 1100H: Sebaring to Rio Tuba 1100H – 1200H: Proceed to shuttle terminal 1200H – 1800H: Rio Tuba to Puerto Princesa

Estimated Budget: ~P12,000 each for 4D/3N ~P10,000 each for 3D/2N

• Entrance Fees: Onuk Island – P1,500 per person; Candaraman – P100 per person (Add P500 per group if overnight) Comiaran – P100 per person Canibungan – P150 er person (Add P500 per group if overnight) Sebaring – P100
• If you arrive early in Rio Tuba or you miss the boat to Balabac, there are lodging houses in Rio Tuba where you can spend the night. White Heaven Lodge near Rio Tuba bus terminal has P250/night for a very basic fan room with common CR. Other lodges in town are Corpuz Lodging, Duazo Lodging, Triple J Inn (the only one with wi-fi), Kharis Lucky Inn, Tagle Pensionne, RZ Lodge and Dolotte Lodge. Expect only basic accommodation from these lodges.
• The cheapest way to experience Balabac is to join the organized tours of various travel groups.
• Mobile signal of major networks are present in Poblacion Balabac and other parts of Bugsuk Island.
• No ATM in Balabac and no establishment accepts credit card, debit card or traveler’s checque. The nearest ATM is in the town of Rio Tuba in mainland Palawan.
• Electricity in Poblacion Balabac and neighboring towns runs only from 12 noon to 12 midnight. No electricity in the outlying islands.
• There are reported cases of Malaria and Filariasis in Balabac specially in the mountains and forest areas. Although rare now, take precautionary measures when visiting the town.
• Bring insect repellant for protection against mosquitos and sand flies (niknik)
• Foreigner are discouraged to visit the place due to security risks
• Best time to visit is during summer (March to June)

Updates: 07-May-2014; 18-Feb-2017; 31-Dec-2017; 10-Mar-2018; 21-Apr-2019; 27-Jan-2020; 10-Aug-2021; 10-Mar-2023

[…] For more information on Cape Melville Lighthouse and Balabac, check out Lakwatsero’s Balabac Travel Guide. […]

[…] I first learned of how beautiful Balabac is from a blog post of Angel a couple of years back, I’ve always wanted to go and stay there for a week or longer. For a […]

[…] away from civilisation. You’ll only find a handful of locals and plenty of wildlife. Check out Lakwatsero’s Balabac guide here for everything you need to know about getting to the islands and what to do when you’re […]

[…] in Balabac by Akrosdayunibers Balabac Series by BlissfulGuro Balabac Travel Guide by Detourista Balabac: Travel Guide by Lakwatsero Balabac, Palawan P6,935 to Paradise by Taralets Anywhere Balabac Island: Sandbar Hopping Paradise […]

Hi! My friend and I are planning to visit Balabac this March. More specifically, Onok Island is on the top of our list. However we were astounded to find out that they now charge 5000 pesos per head (entrance fee and meals included) just to visit this island. And that’s on top of the usual rate of 2000 per person per day Island hopping (3 islands per day). We tried to call diff boat operators and all have the same rates. Umm do you think it’s worth the price to still visit onok?

[…] situated on the southern tip of Bugsuk Island, one of the islands that comprise the Municipality of Balabac which also happens to be the southernmost town of Palawan Province, the last of the last […]

[…] For information on how to go to Balabac Island and Cape Melville Lighthouse, check out Lakwatsero’s Travel Guide to Balabac. […]

[…] For more information about the place, check out my Travel Guide to Balabac Islands. […]

How can tourist to go to Balabac island in Philippines and where can I stay there?

https://www.lakwatsero.com/destinations/travel-guide-balabac/ I think that blog will help you. I actually never heard of that island before you mentioned it.

Hi Lakwatsero,

What a great website and a great find for me!

I have a yacht currently in Myanmar but in the low season there, May to October I am planning to have her based in KK or Kudat (Sabah Malaysia) and using her for charter trips from Sabah out to Banggi Islands and also to the Balabac Islands and even onto Palawan.

Would really like to use some of your photos and written material on my website, obviously with full credit given.

Do you offer any services that you think might be useful to me?

My website is currently under construction but is online now http://www.dallinghoo.com

Best regards

Trevor Appleby

Thanks for this lakwatsero. We visited Balabac, Palawan, this summer and I’ve made a guide also with updated prices and contact details, in case anyone is looking for this information. 🙂

http://www.taraletsanywhere.com/balabac-palawan-itinerary/

Hi everyone, just would like to let you know that we are offering tours to Balabac, Palawan in partnership with Kap Andong Noe (the best boatman and tour guide of Balabac!). Those who are interested to visit the island group of Balabac may check our FB page for our year-long trips.

FB: http://www.facebook.com/kilometerzeroph IG / Twitter: @kilometerzeroph

Please share with your family and friends who’d like to explore the southernmost tip of the Palawan!

[…] For more information, check out Balabac Island Travel Guide. […]

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2024 Complete Balabac Palawan Travel Guide with Itinerary & Budget: Everything You Need to Know

In my journey of visiting all 82 provinces in my country, I have finally stumbled into my current BEST ISLAND in the Philippines — Onuk Island in Balabac Palawan . It has been a week since our visit to this majestic group of islands and up to this day I’m still stoked! So to all my readers asking for this awaited article, here is a Balabac Palawan travel guide with itinerary & budget for your future reference.

Balabac’s breathtaking and unspoiled beaches earned its nickname “ the last of the last frontier ” in the Philippines. Its stunning sandbars and crystal clear water will definitely guarantee tan lines as you marvel into its exquisite beauty.

Table of Contents

Understanding Balabac Palawan

To give you a bit of information, Balabac is a total of 31 islands located in the southern most part of Palawan and only about 50 kilometers North of Sabah, Malaysia. Most of its islands are privately owned by politicians and some are totally uninhabited.

The north of Palawan which are Coron and El Nico gives tourists a distinct characteristic through massive limestones and shipwrecks. Balabac islands on the other hand features more of tropical palm trees, pristine beaches, pink sand beach, powdery sand, vibrantly colored coral reef and marine life.

• The best season to visit Balabac Palawan is during the height of summer when the sun is up and the beach is at its clearest. Make sure to plan your trip during February – May for best chances of seeing the islands in its utmost majestic phase.
• Although the  predominant language   is Tagalog , Cuyonon is widely spoken and used all throughout Palawan, as well as Hiligaynon and other Visayan languages. Moreover, English is also widely spoken.
• Indigenous people: the  Molbog people  dominate the municipality of Balabac, as well as the municipality of Bataraza in the north.
• The currency used is Php and in terms of cash payments only. There are no ATM machines in Balabac so make sure to bring enough cash with you.

Frequently Asked Questions: Balabac DIY Trip

If you are planning to go to Balabac DIY way, below are few significant pre-travel guide tips you should know.

How to go to Balabac DIY way?

Step 1: Fly from Manila (MNL) to Puerto Princesa (PPS) . The nearest airport to Balabac will be Puerto Princesa so make sure to book your flight to PPS.

Step 2: Ride a van from PPS airport to Rio Tuba or Buliluyan Port in the municipality of Bataraza. The travel time is 5-7 hours and will depend on which port you will choose – Rio Tuba or Buliluyan Port. If you will come from Rio Tuba the sea travel to Balabac is about 4 hours. Alternatively, if you will come from Buliluyan Port the sea travel is less than an hour to Balabac.

Moreover, the most convenient way is to book van transfers from PPS airport to Buliluyan Port (Php800.00 per way), book here or contact Sir Motet Samson at 0939-363-7676.

Step 3: From Buliluyan Port you have to register at the tourism office which is just beside Buliluyan Port Terminal. Subsequently, rent a boat to Balabac and pay the necessary fees.

Boat rental usually costs Php1,500.00 per person and per day and this only includes 2-3 islands. The rate is also subject to change depending on how many passengers there are on the same date you will rent a boat for island hopping.

Where to stay?

PUERTO PRINCESA, PALAWAN

• CASAORO HOMESTAY – PHP470.00/NIGHT GOOD FOR 2

• GRANDMAS HOUSE HOMESTAY – PHP299.00/NIGHT GOOD FOR 2

If you have a budget on hotel rooms, I highly recommend Aziza Paradise Hotel. This is where I stayed for 4 nights, amenities includes a large lobby, swimming pool, wifi, bar and restaurant. It is also located about 2-3 minutes away from the Airport.

• AZIZA PARADISE HOTEL – PHP3,000.00/NIGHT GOOD FOR 2

• HUE HOTEL AND RESORT – PHP3,000.00/NIGHT GOOD FOR 2

Hue Hotel is also one of my recommended hotels around the City. Aside from it is located 2-3 minutes away from the airport, they have lots of room availabilities, amenities like swimming pool, bar, lounge, spa, restaurant and free airport transfers too. It is also walking distance from Robinsons Mall and other restaurants.

SICSICAN ISLAND, BALABAC – KAMP MALAYA

The base camp where you can stay is in Sicsican island, Balabac. There are A-type Kubo (fan room) available for Php500.00 per person and per night. Also, there are decent comfort rooms for guests. Contact Sir Motet Sanson for reservations: 0939-363-7676.

ONUK ISLAND, BALABAC

Overnight is also allowed in Onuk Island for a rate of Php3,500.00/pax which includes fan room and a mattress. Take note that advance reservation should be done. Day tour rate in Onuk Island is still Php1,500.00 per person.

A good reason why overnight in Onuk Island is so pricey is because Onuk Island is Balabac’s pride island. It’s the most majestic island you see online about Balabac.

Where to eat?

Food can be troublesome and might even get you spending more money for DIY travelers. Especially that these are secluded islands so you have to consider the fact that there are not much low budget eateries in the islands. You can opt for paluto or bring your own packed meals.

Where to book Balabac Island Tour?

Insider tip: save yourself from all the hassle and book a packaged tour instead!

Honestly there is not much difference in the budget if you plan to go to Balabac DIY way or booking a package tour. You can find preparing for your meals a bit troublesome and hassle in the island and buying cooked meals can be pricey too! So booking a package tour is more budget-wise if you ask me.

Book your tours with Balabac Island Tour-Kamp Malaya , below are the contact details:

• Sir Motet Sanson 0939-363-7676
• Email: [email protected]

TOUR COST : Php10,990.00 each for 4 Days & 3 Nights -Roundtrip AC van transfer (shared) from PPS-Buliluyan -Roundtrip boat transfers -Full board meals -All entrance fees -Onuk Island day tour (add Php500.00 for overnight in Onuk) -Accommodation (fan room/tent/kubo) add Php200.00/pax/night for AC room -Tour Insurance -Environmental fee -Life Vest -Local tour guide – NO HIDDEN FEES!

Helpful Tips From Joan’s Footprints

• Bring your snorkeling and/or diving gears . If you don’t have one, Kamp Malaya has available mask and snorkel for rent (Php150.00 per day).
• Signal and electricity varries from different islands. For instance, Buliluyan Port in Bataraza has no signal for both Smart and Globe users. The base camp in Sicsican Island in Balabac has good signal reception and electricity. You can upload and download images just fine using mobile data. In most islands like Onuk island, the signal is weak you can only send and receive text messages.
• There are no ATM machines so make sure to bring enough cash with you.
• I highly recommend availing a tour package if you’re planning to go to Balabac. Why? The expenses between DIY trip and tour package doesn’t differ much. Yeap ! You’ll just add a little extra and you’ll get a comfortable free of hassle trip to Balabac. Your meals, trip, accommodation, boat and land transfers are all arranged for you.
• Mosquito repellan t is must!
• Protect the colors of the reef! Use reef safe sunscreens for your skin protection! Purchase Magwai’s reef safe sunscreen and get a 10% discount by using my code JOANA10 .

Balabac Palawan Itinerary & Budget

We availed our 4 days and 3 nights Balabac Island tour with Balabac Island Tours-Kamp Malaya for Php10,990.00 each. It includes full board meals, accommodation, fees, tour guide, boat transfers and AC van transfer from PPS-Buliluyan. No hidden fees!

DAY 0: MNL-PPS

10:00PM Board a flight from MNL-PPS

Budget Tip: the tour starts at 2am on Day 1. Try to book the latest flight on Day 0 and wait at the airport (PPS) for your van transfer to Buliluyan Port. For example, I booked the 10PM flight from MNL-PPS and we arrived PPS at 11:30PM. We stayed at the lobby and waited for our van transfer, this way you can save 1 night in a hotel. But if you’re good with booking a hotel room for 1 night then you can opt for earlier flights.

DAY 1: Balabac Island Hopping

Places to visit: -Canimeran Island -Tangkahan Island -Patawan Island (dolphin-shaped sandbar) -Sicsican Island (base camp)

2:00AM Van transfer from PPS airport to Buliluyan Port 8:00AM ETA Buliluyan Port, register, meet with your your tour guide 9:00AM Start of tour 10:30AM ETA Canimeran Island 12:00NN Lunch at Tangkahan Island 2:00PM Patawan Island 5:00PM ETA Sicsican Island base camp overnight @ Kamp Malaya

Canimeran Island has a white sand beach with a touch of pink sand. Pink sand beaches are result of red corals and this also means a healthy reef!

Our next island to visit was Tangkahan Island , there are cottages in the island and it is also a good place for lunch. Tangkahan has a really beautiful front beach so we also went swimming and snorkeling in front if it.

After eating our lunch in Tangkahan Island, we went straight to Patawan Island which is popularly known for its dolphin-shape sandbar . Although our tour guide told us that the dolphin-shape sandbar would show up most likely during low tide.

Patawan Island is also a good place for snorkeling and swimming. It has crystal clear water, stunning sandbar and a white sand beach.

Lastly we went to Sicsican Island which is the base camp for Balabac island hopping. There are A-type kubo available for Php500.00/pax/night (fan-room). The island also has decent wash rooms ideal for few nights of stay in Balabac.

DAY 2: Balabac Island Hopping

Places to visit: -Starfish sandbar -Candaraman Island -Nasubata Reef (snorkeling) -Onuk Island overnight

7:00AM Breakfast 9:00AM Starfish Sandbar 10:00AM Candaraman Island 12:00NN Nasubata Reef snorkeling 1:00PM Onuk Island, swim with sea turtles, kayak, snorkeling 5:00PM Sunset watching 7:00PM Dinner, socials, overnight in Onuk Island

Starfish Island reminds me of Naked Island in Siargao or White Island in Camiguin. It doesn’t have trees, just a piece of sand in the ocean. This island earned its nickname because of the starfish inhabiting the stunning sandbar.

A friendly reminder to my fellow travelers, please do not pick up the starfish. Do not touch them in any way too.

Candaraman Island is a white sand beach and it is the island in front of Sicsican Island’s base camp. It is also located just beside Starfish sandbar.

Before heading to Onuk Island, we went snorkeling and skindiving in Nasubata Reef . If you don’t have snorkeling gears with you, the tour operator has gears for rental. (Php150.00 per day)

As our boat approaches what seem to be an exquisite beauty, the little piece of island from afar is slowly getting bigger and bigger. The water is slowly turning into turquoise blue making the sea turtles more visible in the naked eye. My heart started pounding so fast and I told myself “the dream destination is finally in front of me!”

Onuk Island is by far, the best island I’ve seen in the Philippines. In its own classy way, it won my heart. Truly it is the last of the last frontier!

So we arrived here at 1PM in the afternoon and had our lunch here too. After that our group quickly marveled into its stunning sandbar, went snorkeling with the sea turtles, i flew my drone too, went swimming and kayaking and took a lot of photos!

Just as we thought everything felt so magical, here comes Mr. Sun setting right in front of us! The sunset changed the mood of the island into light orange. It felt so peaceful and calm! The water was so still and quiet that it mirrored the sky.

DAY 3: Balabac Island Hopping

Places to visit: -Punta Sebaring island -Mansalangan Sandbar -Canibungan Island

7:00AM Breakfast at Onuk Island 11:30AM Punta Sebaring, lunch 2:30PM Canibungan Island 4:00PM Mansalangan Sandbar 5:30PM Back at Sicsican Island base camp overnight

In the morning, we went swimming and snorkeling before leaving Onuk Island. Also, the weather went gloomy from sunny since yesterday. Still, the island is so beautiful.

Punta Sebaring made quite an impression to me because of its distinct powdery sand. It made me feel like I was in Boracay.

Mansalangan sandbar looked like starfish sandbar too. Best time to go here is during low tide, in the afternoon the waves gets a little harsh and buries the sandbar.

DAY 4: PPS-MNL

6:00AM Light breakfast 7:00AM Last hoorah at Sicsican Island (snorkeling, swimming) 9:00AM Travel back to Buliluyan Port 1:00PM Van from Buliluyan to PPS 7:00PM Dinner at Kinabuch in PPS 11:00PM flight back to MNL

Sample 4 Days 3 nights Balabac Expenses

This is assuming that you are availing tour package for your Balabac Palawan trip.

• Airfare with Cebu Pacific: Php3,100.00 roundtrip
• 4 Days & 3 Nights Tour: Php10,990.00
• Additional Php500.00 for Onuk Island overnight

TOTAL EXPENSE: PHP14,590.00 / PAX

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One thought on “ 2024 complete balabac palawan travel guide with itinerary & budget: everything you need to know ”.

This is such a help. Planning to go this April. Thank you.

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Complete Guide to Island Hopping in Balabac, Palawan

Are you planning a visit to the Philippines and dreaming about lounging on pristine beaches, jetting around to untouched islands, and not having to share any of it with anyone else? If so, skip the over-crowded areas of El Nido and Coron in the north of Palawan Island and instead head south, to the Balabac Islands.

Balabac is a group of 31 islands, many of which are totally uninhabited. You’ll find pink-sand beaches, vibrantly colored coral, a wide range of marine life, endemic mouse deer, and welcoming locals. But what you won’t find are many other foreigners. This means that this off-the-beaten-path island paradise will be yours to enjoy, all by yourself!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Balabac Islands Travel Basics

Things to know before you go.

• The Philippines are an archipelago of over 7,000 islands. There are hundreds of stunning places to visit, but many of them take some time and patience to get to.
• At the time of writing, the conversion rate was 55.58 Philippine Pisos (PHP) to $1 USD . So if something costs 100 PHP, that’s just under $2.00 USD.
• Expect to rough it here. You’ll be sleeping under a mosquito net in the great outdoors. Your shower will simply be you dumping cold water over your head from a bucket. There are no luxurious resorts in the area… yet.
• There are very few amenities available for purchase . Make sure to bring snacks, alcohol, and any medications and toiletries you may need.
• There are no ATMs around so bring enough cash to pay for your tour and to tip your guides if necessary.
• You’ll likely see a lot of trash around. Sadly trash in the ocean tends to wind up on the shores and it isn’t cleaned up regularly. Don’t contribute to the problem – pack out what you pack in.
• Don’t expect to have cell service once you depart Rio Tuba.

What to Pack for the Balabac Islands

You’ll be spending your days cruising in a boat to the various islands around Balabac in the hot sun. Be sure to pack a swimsuit, a quick-dry beach towel, something to cover your shoulders or a sun hat in case the sun gets too intense, and plenty of sunscreen.

Evenings are warm but you’ll likely want to cover your arms, legs, and feet due to sandflies and mosquitos. Choose lightweight, breathable pants, a comfortable long-sleeve top, bug spray, and a rechargeable fan to keep you cool when you’re trying to fall asleep.

Your tour guide may or may not run a generator at night and offer to let you charge your electronics. Ask them ahead of time and if they don’t, be sure to pack a battery pack so you never run out of juice. And if you plan to bring any expensive camera gear on your boat tour, be sure to bring a dry bag to keep everything dry.

Other Packing Essentials: 

• Body soap for washing the salt and sand off at the end of the day
• Body lotion in case you get sunburned
• Toilet paper and/or baby wipes
• A jacket for chilly boat rides back to camp
• Headlamp or flashlight to find your way to the toilet at night

What to Budget for Your Trip

Your tour package will be all-in, meaning that all of your meals, coffee, snacks, bottled water, accommodation, island entrance fees, and boat tour will be covered in the price. Expect to pay around $50 USD per person per day.

We booked our tour through  Balabac Island Safari  and paid 20,000 PHP (~$380.00 USD) for a 5-day, 4-night tour.

What to Tip Your Tour Guide

Your tour operator will most likely also be the owner of their business. As such, the price you pay will go directly to them. However, they may employ a boat hand who would most definitely be excited by an extra tip of 200 PHP per day.

Are the Islands Safe?

There are rumors circling around the Philippines that pirate terrorists are kidnapping tourists in the Balabac Islands region. We never felt concerned for our safety. Also, we never actually found any information regarding past offenses against tourists in the area.

There have been outbreaks of malaria on some islands so bring bug spray and cover-up around sunset when they are the worst. You can request that your doctor prescribe you antimalarial medication although the side effects can be quite severe.

Best Time to Visit the Balabac Islands

The best time to visit the islands south of Palawan is March through May when the water is calm, the rain is infrequent if ever, and the weather is sunny and pleasant.

Be sure to check the weather before you visit as you won’t have as much fun if rain is on the horizon. You’ll encounter very rough waves and possibly even typhoons from November to February so it’s not an ideal time to visit.

Getting to the Islands

The Balabac Islands are located off the south end of Palawan Island. The closest international airport is in Puerto Princesa. That is a bustling city so pick up snacks for your journey, sunscreen, bug spray, and any alcohol that you might want to consume over the next four days here.

You’ll need to arrange a shuttle van from Puerto Princesa to Rio Tuba. They leave at 4 am and the journey will take you around five hours. The van will stop once so you can get breakfast and use the toilet. Your hotel can help to arrange the van or you can call Jeremie Dorig directly at 09126067994. He does the trip back and forth daily. The price is 500 PHP per person.

The van will drop you off at the Petron gas station in the town center and you’ll need to take a tricycle to the pier. There will be plenty around and the price is 100 PHP total for the trip.

Once at the pier, you’ll be directed to sign the manifest at a small stand and buy a ticket for your boat.

If you’re headed to Balabac, then you’ll want to board the RE Express. However, if you are getting picked up by your tour guide in Bancalaan you have the option to take either the RE Express, the MB Lady Loy, or the Charlie. The price for any boat is 250 PHP per person to Bancalaan or 370 PHP per person to Balabac.

The boats depart daily (weather permitting) and leave when the boat is full any time between 10:30 am-12 pm. Make sure you arrive at the pier by 10 am at the latest so you don’t get left behind!

TIP: Get on the boat early to reserve a seat. Locals tend to use their bags to save seats early and then go sit in the shade. So even if the boat doesn’t look particularly full you may be surprised how many seats have bags sitting on them when you go to pick your seat.

Getting Back to Civilization

Several boats depart from Balabac Islands daily but are sure your captain calls ahead to reserve you a seat.

The boat leaves from Balabac Poblacion at 6 am-6:30 am with a stop at Bancalaan around 7:30 am-8 am. Lady Loy and Charlie leave directly from Bancalaan at 7 am.

When you get dropped off at the Rio Tuba pier you can either board a shuttle back to Puerto Princesa there (it will be packed). Another option is to take a tricycle back to the Petron Station where (less crowded) shuttles leave every few hours.

Once you’re back in Puerto Princesa, you can catch a shuttle north to  El Nido  or fly to Cebu , Suquijor , or one of the other islands in the south.

TIP: The pier is swarming with men who will want to carry your bag both onto and off of the boat for you. Plan on tipping them around 10-20 PHP per bag if you choose to enlist their services.

Balabac Island Accommodations

The Balabac Islands are incredibly underdeveloped so don’t expect to be staying in lavish accommodations. The easiest way to explore the islands is to hire a tour guide. The price of your tour will include some kind of tent, hammock, or mattress to sleep on. Don’t expect to have air conditioning or a fan to keep you cool after dark.

If you choose to spend the night in the city of Poblacion on Balabac Island you have a few choices – MLK Lodging or JD Lodging (Sing and Swing). Both offer a fan room for 2 people for 400 PHP.

Finding a Tour Guide

If you choose to book a tour guide in advance of arriving on the islands, there are several to choose from. Keep in mind that Wi-Fi in the area is minimal so it may take up to a full day for them to respond to your request. We booked our tour with Balabac Island Safari  which is owned and operated by Captain Andong and his wife. Their “base camp” is located on Canibungan Island and is currently in mid-construction. Accommodations include a bed with a mattress, a roof over the bed (but no walls), a mosquito net hanging over the bed, a toilet, and a bucket for showers.

Motet Sanson is another popular tour guide in the area. His base camp is on Candaraman Island.

If you don’t book a tour in advance, you can take the boat straight to Balabac Island and hire a boat and guide once you arrive. The local coast guard can give you information on what licensed boats are available based on how large your group is and what you want to see and do. Regardless of the route you choose, you’ll need to bring your passport and check in with them during your trip. If you don’t do it at the beginning, your tour guide will bring you here during your stay.

It is not advised to organize a do-it-yourself tour as most of the islands are privately owned and require prior coordination to visit.

Dining in Balabac

If you book an all-inclusive tour, then the price you pay per day will include meals, coffee, snacks, and bottled water. Most meals will include rice and fresh fish. If you have any food allergies or avoid meat products you may have a challenging time figuring out what you can eat. Be sure to tell your guide ahead of time and bring plenty of snacks, just in case.

Balabac Island Highlights

Bugsuk Island: Punta Sebaring

The sandbar here is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before! As you walk you’ll find that suddenly you’ll sink up to your knee in the fine, white sand. Spend your time lounging in the water and laughing at the bubbles that emerge from the sand. This was one of our favorite stops along our tour!

Candaraman Island

The portion of the island that is open to visitors is privately owned by a friendly family. They have a few covered areas for lunching, a nice sandy beach for lounging, and plenty of leaning palm trees for climbing!

Comiran Island (Pink Sand Island)

Red coral mixes with white sand to create the beautiful pink colored sand on this island. It won’t take you long to wander around the entire island, admiring the enormous shells laying on the picturesque sand.

Onuk Island

If you choose to visit Onuk Island, you’ll need to pay an additional 3,000 PHP per person for a day tour or 5,000 PHP per person to spend the night (includes accommodation and meals). Be sure you select a guide who can take you there as it is not offered by all.

Balabac Island-Hopping Itinerary

Don’t plan anything! Relax, you’re on vacation. You’ll wake up early every morning to make the most of your day and your tour guide will take care of all of the planning. Just sit back and enjoy this beautiful landscape!

What’s your favorite off-the-beaten-path adventure in the Philippines? Drop us a comment and let us know!

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About the Author:

Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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7 thoughts on “complete guide to island hopping in balabac, palawan”.

Hi could you tell me your experience with Balabad safari tour. Im considering of taking their tour.

We had a great trip with Balabac Island Safaris. Captain Andong was a great boat driver and guide for the area. The accommodations we’re pretty rustic – just a raised platform with a roof, matress, and misquito net – but you’re going for the adventure!

How very extensive. Thanks for all these information, Valerie.

Hi.  Reading your informative post make me dream of visiting that paradise. The price of 20.000PHP you quote was for each one or both of you?. Just reading more of your blog. Thanks

I am a bit confused by you budget suggestion. $50 USD per person per day.

but you paid 20,000 PHP (~$380.00 USD) for a 5-day, 4-night tour. that is more like $75?

Hi Jano, we paid 20,000 PHP total for 2 people so it was ~$190 per person or $50 per person per night.

Brother, who cares so much of the price. I mean if its 100 USD a day for 2 people yo experience such Beauty,,, come on man……… Love it , we are on our way..

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Balabac, Palawan: DIY Travel Guide, Itinerary, Budget & Expectations The Philippines Last Frontier

A rising destination located at the southernmost tip of Palawan, Balabac is now getting the attention of many because of its incomparable islands with superb clear waters, fine white sand beaches, impressive sandbars, rich underwater life and pristine islets.

We’ve been rooting to get to Balabac the first time we heard about it but going there is no easy task. It requires time, money, careful planning, patience and courage to face the unknown challenges. You need to allot time to consider the seemingly endless travel. Five days at least to get the best experience for this trip. Island hopping packages in Balabac are more expensive than usual. The rate is per head not per boat rental. Of course you need to do your research and read prior to the trip to get useful information, tips and contacts. You better have lots of patience because going to Balabac is not your usual comfortable voyage. Lastly, have that courage to endure the unforeseen events. Even if you planned everything rigorously, there may be cases that the outcome is different from what you imagined. But, to tell you honestly, all of your sacrifices will all be worth it when you get to Balabac.

Check out our videos!

Table of Contents

How To Get There

By Air Book a flight to Puerto Princesa from major airlines – Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, Airasia and others. From Manila to Puerto Princesa, flight duration is more or less an hour.

By Land From Puerto Princesa Airport, ride a tricycle (Php120 fixed rate) going to San Jose Terminal to catch the van heading to Rio Tuba. You can also take a jeep outside the airport then ask the driver to drop you off near San Jose Terminal (fare is around Php12-15). From here, regular van trips starts as early as 4am (PPS to Rio Tuba) until 5pm. Depending on volume of passengers, the van may leave as soon as they get their minimum number of passengers. Travel time from San Jose Terminal to Rio Tuba is 5 – 6 hours. There are also RORO buses but travel time may take longer.

Van Schedules: Puerto Princesa to Riotuba – 4am to 5pm Riotuba to Puerto Princesa – 4am to 3pm

If you are traveling in a group, best to rent the van for yourselves. You may contact Kuya Jun of Palshutex at 0920-5638338 in case you need one.

By Sea From Rio Tuba, there is one boat trip going to Balabac mainland which usually departs at 10am-11am. Be there as early as you can to secure your slot. Boat ride will take up to 3-4 hours depending on the weather. Buy your tickets from the assigned boat crew in Sitio Marabahay Pier for Php370 per person and fill-up the basic information – name, age, address and contact number.

NOTE: Plan your trips in advance carefully. It is best to book a flight to Puerto Princesa with expected arrival time of 1am-3am to estimate your arrival in Rio Tuba. If you miss the boat ride, you would need to spend the night there and catch the following day’s boat schedule. We read a number of articles of Balabac and usually, due to conflict of schedules of their flight (same with us), having an overnight stay in Rio Tuba is inevitable. But, if you can make the proper arrangement and planning, you can possibly make it to Balabac on your first day.

Here’s the summary of the average travel time from Puerto Princesa to Balabac mainland: Puerto Princesa to Rio Tuba: 5-6 hours by van Rio Tuba to Balabac mainland: 3-4 hours by boat Total Hours: 10 hours

In the event that you need room(s), these are the budget-friendly accommodations you can check in Rio Tuba:

Pring Pension House – 090609493952 or 09265844805 Php300 (fan room) with common CR Php700 (AC room) w/o breakfast Php900 (AC room) w/ breakfast

White Haven Lodge Php250 (fan room)

Arrival in Balabac

The boat ride from Rio Tuba to Balabac can be smooth or rough depending on the season. Best to visit Balabac during summer from April to May where the sea is mostly calm and more likely to have the perfect weather. In a normal itinerary, you will arrive in Balabac at around 4pm-5pm. Make sure to arrange your accommodation in advance. To give you some help, check these pension and lodging houses where you can stay. There are no luxurious hotel in Balabac, most of the units are simple, small but decent. But hey! You’re not going to trap yourself in the bedroom right? A safe, accessible and enough space for you and your stuff should be ok.

JD Lodging (Sing and Swing) Php500 (fan room) with common CR Php1,000 (AC room)

MLK Lodging Php500 (fan room) with common CR

Mely Bechayda (Pension House) – 09264049171 Php500 (fan room) with common CR Php250/person for bigger rooms with own CR, kitchen

What to Consider in Balabac

Power Supply Electricity runs from 2pm to 6am daily which enables you to recharge your batteries, powerbanks, gadgets and use of electric fan, AC and lightings.

Water Supply & Other Goods Balabac is 3-4 hours away from the border of Malaysia which explains why its commonly have the Malaysian products. Practically, it is more convenient than getting the supplies from Puerto Princesa or other parts of Palawan. By trading of goods between Balabac-Malaysia, it helps the people of Balabac to open the gateway for accessible supplies of their additional potable water sources, purchases of common goods like soft drinks, noodles, coffees, canned goods and others. There’s no scarcity in water or food supplies. As tourist, we actually had generous supplies for drinking water and servings of our meals.

Bring Extra Food Buy your snacks, liquor (if you’re going to drink some) and other common picky food you want from Puerto Princesa. Prices of these stuff in Balabac are doubled or way higher. Be practical. But if you have the money to spend, this will not be an issue.

Security Issues During our stay in Balabac, there were no issues of any threat to our safety. Locals which are composed of Muslim and Christian Filipinos are friendly and approachable. They may have instances that people will glance at you, but that’s because you are a tourist which maybe fresh to their eyes. We didn’t see foreign tourists in the area compared to Puerto Princesa, El Nido and Coron but as per the locals, they had visitors from foreign countries from the previous months.

Malaria and Crocodile-infested Areas Malaria is present in some islands of Balabac previously but to make sure you avoid catching one, take anti-Malaria medication at least two weeks before your planned visit and bring strong anti-mosquito repellent spray/lotions and wear cover-ups.

There were news about the crocodiles in Balabac and the danger of these to community and visitors. According to the residents, you can see the crocodiles during low tide in  Lagdong  (located in mainland Balabac) .  This is the area where the mangroves and other animals like monkeys, different species of birds and snakes inhabited. The other side of Lagdong, a farther crocodile habitat, is where the wilder and aggressive crocs can be found. We didn’t have the chance to visit the place but for those who seek this kind of thrill, you may coordinate with your local tour operator or the Balabac tourism office. To mention, there were cases of crocodile attacks to residents and their pets (mostly dogs) but the stories were supported by some negative actions made by the victims prior to attacks like catching the eggs of the crocodiles, damaging the mangroves, direct attack on crocodiles and the like. They were saying that, crocodiles only harm those people who did wrong to them directly or indirectly. Fact or not, since there were cases of croc attacks, being vigilant is the key when near the waters of Balabac mainland.

The Island Hopping in Balabac

The islands in Balabac are scattered and apart from one another. This is the main reason why the island hopping could only reach three islands per day and getting to an island may take at least an hour or longer depending on the boat being used and wave/weather condition.

Patawan Island

This is a small island with powdery white sand circling the cluster of trees at the center. Normally, this is the first island stop among with Patunggong Island and Tangkahan Island.

Patunggong Island

Also known as Patongong Island. An oval-shaped island with cream to white sand shores. The best way to enjoy this place is thru snorkeling. They have rich corals with different species of fish. We’re lucky to get the glimpse of the baby sharks when we departed the island. Not sure what type of shark are they, but it’s good to see them here. An evidence that the waters of Balabac is still undisturbed.

Tangkahan Island

It seems the white sand feature of the islands in Balabac is normal, same with Tangkahan Island. This one is the biggest among the three islands with teeming coconut trees and bushes. To our surprise, we were welcomed by “niknik” or sand mites so we spent the time under the cottage and chatted with our bangkeros and the island’s owner whilst we drink the freshly picked “buko”. We also spotted two small thin snakes just creeping freely on the sand. They said those are venomous. Make sure to watch your steps when you visit the island. Entrance fee is Php50.

Comiran Island

Also known as Pink Island or Camiaran Island. Some portion of this beach has its noticeably pink sand feature. To be honest, we thought the whole island’s shore could be pinkish but sadly, it’s not. There is an entrance fee of Php100 per head being collected by the family owners. And since you’re already there, try to eat “Ranga-Ranga” from Kuya Sulayman. The flavor is comparable to the meat of squid being grilled/smoked.

• Onuk Island

Don’t miss your chance to visit Onuk Island. It is one of the most beautiful island we’ve seen so far. It has everything you would want to see, from sandbar to beautiful corals and underwater life, the clearest water, the numerous “pawikan” encounter, the relaxing cottages, the sunset and the wooden catwalk. Everything is beautiful! Day tour is Php1,500 and Php2,000 overnight if you are under a package tour. Normally, it is Php3,500 overnight. Settle in for a night here so you’ll get to experience the sunrise, sunset and the sand bar.

If you booked directly with the island’s caretaker (rate of Php3,500/night), they said you’ll get a feast of everything – lobsters, seafoods, drinks and others. To mention, Onuk is privately owned by Balabac’s Mayor and his family.

Punta Sebaring

The finest white sand! Yes, it’s Punta Sebaring’s trademark. The sand is pure and powdery. It is 2 hours away from Balabac mainland via pump boat. The sand bar here usually reveal itself late in the afternoon. If you want to witness them, you should consider spending the night in Punta Sebaring in their cottages and tents. You can also bring your own tent. Do not forget to experience its water. We get energized after the long boat ride. Punta Sebaring is part of Bugsuk Island.

Sand fleas are abundant in the island. DO NOT FORGET to apply strong insect-repellant all over your body to protect you from insect bites.

Mansalangan Sandbar

We opted to see Mansalangan sandbar instead of the one from Punta Sebaring. At 1pm, we headed to Mansalangan. It is advisable to leave Punta Sebaring before low tide unless you want to get trapped in the island.

Mansalangan sandbar is one of the widest and longest sand bar in the Philippines and going there is a must. During our trip, the water level decreases at around 2pm-3pm which is ideal time to go for swimming while waiting for the sandbar.  The clear azure water of Mansalangan will surely amaze you and when the sandbar finally reveals its full beauty, it is jaw-dropping! Without a doubt, one of the most beautiful sandbar we have witnessed.

Matangule Sandbar

Matangule sandbar is a bonus spot only offered by Lorna Mortega’s team, our boat operator. They usually let their guests visit this sandbar and even allow them to spend the night at their house in Matangule Island, just a few minutes away from this sandbar. Love sea stars? Matangule has lots of them!

• Candaraman Island

Well known as Star Fish Island. There are thousands of sea stars in this island scattered along the sandbar and its shore. Unfortunately, we didn’t have the chance to witness them closely. Yes, there were sea stars around but not as many as we expected. When we checked the aerial shot, we noticed that hundreds of them were near the sandbar! We could’ve leveled the drone closer if we knew it then. But still, Candaraman island is one of the best island in Balabac with or without these sea stars.

Other Islands in Balabac

• Bancalan Island – common stop over of passenger boats from Riotuba-Balabac
• Sicsican Island – good site for snorkeling
• Nasubata Island – a small rocky island also known as Pulao Bato
• Canibungan Island – an island where you can also stay overnight near Candaraman Island
• Matangule Island
• Lumbucan Island
• Secam Island
• Mangsee Island

Balabac – Home of  Sandbars

Balabac is a haven of fascinating sandbars. The first time we experienced a place with numerous sandbars. Sandbars can be seen near Onuk, Bugsuk, Mansalangan, Candaraman and Matangule island. Likely, there could be more of them if you’ll get to visit all of the islands in Balabac.

The challenge is the perfect timing to visit them. Obviously, you won’t be able to see them all at once in one day. Our advice? Talk to your tour/boat operator first and plan your island hopping and overnight stay. From our experience, you can spend the night in Onuk Island. Commonly, you will be able to visit Comiran Island (Pink Island) with Onuk. See Comiran Island in the morning then proceed to Onuk before low tide. Onuk is surrounded by coral walls which is being considered by boat operators and to avoid hitting the corals, the boat should pass through them before low tide which is around 1pm-2pm during our visit. Another option is to have the overnight stay in Punta Sebaring (part of Bugsuk Island). Sandbar in Punta Sebaring will appear almost the same time with Mansalangan Sandbar (afternoon). You can stay in Punta Sebaring to see the sandbar and depart the next day to  Mansalangan sandbar, Matangule sandbar and Candaraman sandbar respectively. To be able to maximize your sandbar experience, better check the low and high tide times for the days of your visit so you can plan your schedule well.

Overnight Stay in the Island

If your plan is to spend the overnight in the islands, better plan it well because you need to consider these:

• Electricity – The power supply is not 24-hours in the island. Usually they may start at around 6pm and run until 6am the following day.
• Food – Full board meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) are covered in your island hopping tour. Make sure to coordinate your plans with your tour operator to prepare your food (day 1 & 2 or 3 if continuous)
• Stuff – Your bag and other belongings should be considered. If you’re going for an overnight stay in the island, where are you going to leave your stuff? In mainland Balabac, you might possibly have your first overnight stay, but are you going to spend another day/night just to leave your things? You can ask your tour operator. They can keep your things in their house but make sure to bring your important belongings (cash, gadgets, etc.) with you and other things (clothing, snacks, towel & bath, etc.) you need for two or three days.

The islands allowed for an overnight stay based from our conversation/experience with the locals are:

• Canibungan Island
• Punta Sebaring (in Bugsuk Island)

Boat Operators & Tour Packages

It is recommended to book your island hopping tour in advance before your planned visit and best to share your expenses with a group. Practically, you can join a group in an event or ask your contact person in Balabac. These are the local organizers or tour operators you can check:

Lorna Mortega Contact Number: 09066909547 & 09506123429

Lorna and her family have been one of the firsts who operate and offer tour packages in Balabac. Their tour rate is way lower than the others especially if the group members/joiners are more than ten persons. All island hopping tours includes 3 full board meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner), life vest, drinking water and the boat. They also offer the inclusion of Riotuba-Balabac boat pick-up. Reach out to Ate Lorna on the numbers above. She has a facebook account but unfortunately the internet network in Balabac is poor so better send her a message or call her to inquire or to book your tours.

By end of November 2018, they will have four pumpboats that can accommodate 30pax, 10pax, 15pax or lower.

We are thankful to Ate Lorna and her boat crews (her brothers and friends) for  accommodating us on our last day of island hopping tour – Punta Sebaring, Mansalangan Sandbar, Matangule Sandbar and Candaraman Island/Sandbar. We’ve had issues with the operator before them which will be discussed on the reviews below.

Other tour operators are:

• Balabac Island Safari of Kap Andong Noe
• Rombo Balabac of Sir Renato Principe

In-Land Tours in Balabac

Getting around the mainland of  Balabac is thru tricycle and habal-habal rides. Aside from the island hopping tours being offered, you can try to check their in-land tours. For  Php700 habal-habal fee, you can visit the old Melville Lighthouse  and two waterfalls along the trail. Going to the lighthouse will take at least 2 hours (one-way).

Balabac Tourism

The local tourism of Balabac has just started getting to prosper but has already attracted tourists from the previous years. This year during the peak of summer, many visitors have gone to Balabac including local and foreign bloggers and representatives from ABS-CBN and GMA. No doubt that one day, Balabac will be one of the top tourist destinations in Palawan or the whole Philippines. But we hope that along with its growth, the beauty and protection of the place will be maintained so the next sets of generation will be able to witness and experience Balabac.

Establishments and Hospital

No major establishments can be found in Balabac but they have money transfer shops like Palawan Express, Mlhuilier in case you need to send or ask for money to/from your families and friends. The police station, municipal office, schools, health centers are accessible but sadly they do not have hospitals to accommodate any major and emergency medical attention. There are no ATMs in Balabac, bring enough cash with you.

Additional Things to Consider

• Book your trip to Balabac during summer from April – May to expect the best weather
• Coordinate your island hopping tour in advance
• Reserve or book your hotel/rooms ahead
• Buy extra food in case of emergency
• Protect your belongings, waterproof them especially your cash, gadgets and other important items
• Plan your trips and prepare your itinerary, budget ahead of time
• Mobile network signal is poor on almost everywhere in Balabac but you can still send texts and call
• Always check the weather going in and out of Balabac
• Bring anti-mosquito/insect repellant, skin protection and cover-ups
• Diving, Free Diving sites can be found in the waters of Balabac. Bring your own snorkeling gears, googles and fins. There are no gears for rent in Balabac.
• Respect the locals and their culture
• Help preserve Balabac – do not leave your trash on the islands or its waters

Balabac Sample Expenses

Check this sample expenses guide for your 3D2N Balabac island hopping adventure + other expenses going to and out of Balabac.

The sample expenses are based on the standard fare, island entrances, hotel rate and tour operator’s own rate. Your actual expenses may differ on this depending on your number of days stay in Balabac. To note, it excluded additional expenses for food, souvenirs and other personal spending. Use the above as guide only so you can plan and budget your trip to Balabac. It is very important to prepare extra cash in case of  unplanned expenses. We recommend you to book your island hopping tour with Lorna Mortega to get the cheapest rate. Contact her at  09066909547 or 09506123429 . It is cheaper if you are travelling in a group to share the expenses and island hopping tour packages will also be lower if you’re in a bigger group.

SAMPLE ITINERARY

Day 1 (Travel Time) 06:15 NAIA to PPS 07:15 Arrival PPS 07:15-07:30 Tricycle to San Jose Terminal 07:30-13:30 San Jose Terminal to Rio Tuba (van) 13:30 Check-in Pring Pension House for overnight 13:30-22:00 Free Time to Lights Off

Day 2 (Travel then arrival in Balabac) 05:00 Wake up Call 05:00-06:00 Preparation, Check-out 06:00-06:15 Tricycle to Sitio Marabay Pier 06:15 Buy boat ticket in advance Rio Tuba to Balabac 06:15-10:00 Breakfast, Explore, Waiting 10:00-11:30 Boarding, Departure 11:30-15:30 Arrival in Balabac 15:30 Hotel Check-in 15:30-19:00 Explore, Arrange Island Hopping Itinerary with your tour operator, Dinner 19:00-21:00 Prepare things for Island Hopping, Free Time to Lights Off

Day 3 (Start of Island Hopping) 05:00 Wake up Call 05:00-08:00 Preparation, Breakfast 08:00 Start of Island Hopping (3 islands per day) 08:00-17:00 Island Hopping duration

Day 4 (2nd day Island Hopping) 05:00 Wake up Call 05:00-08:00 Preparation, Breakfast 08:00 Start of Island Hopping (3 islands per day) 08:00-17:00 Island Hopping duration 17:00 Overnight stay in an island (it could be Onuk Island, Candaraman Island, Punta Sebaring, Canibungan Island or Matangule Island) 17:00-21:00 Dinner, Free Time to Lights Off

Day 5 (3rd day Island Hopping) 05:00 Wake up Call 05:00-08:00 Preparation, Breakfast 08:00 Start of Island Hopping (3 islands per day) 08:00-17:00 Island Hopping duration 17:00-18:00 Sunset, Back to mainland Balabac 18:00-21:00 Dinner, Check-in, Rest, Free Time to Lights Off

Day 6 (Departure from Balabac) 04:00 Wake up Call 04:00-05:00 Preparation, Breakfast, Buy Boat Ticket to Rio Tuba 05:00-07:00 Boarding, waiting, departure 07:00-11:00 Arrival in Rio Tuba 11:00-15:00 Van to San Jose Terminal or Puerto Princesa town proper 15:00-? THIS COULD BE YOUR FLIGHT BACK TO MANILA/ELSEWHERE or EXTENSION TO EXPLORE PUERTO PRINCESA or other parts of Palawan

If you noticed, Balabac itinerary is way challenging from other tourist destinations you’ve been to. The main reasons for these are:

• Travel time from Puerto Princesa to Rio Tuba is time consuming
• Boat ride from Rio Tuba to Balabac is ONCE DAILY which will impact your itinerary. You may need to spend the night in Rio Tuba if you miss the boat trip
• Island Hopping tour will start the next day after your arrival in Balabac mainland
• In short, you have 3 days for your island hopping tour + 2-3 days on travel time going in and out of Balabac

Now, if you really want to go to Balabac, reconsider all the points in this travel guide and read other blog entries to aid you with your plans, budget and itineraries. It could be challenging but, it’s exciting! Enjoy and safe travels wanderer!

Balabac is worth the long hours of travel. Yes, it can be exhausting and tedious but it is rewarding once you experience and witness its beautiful islands. We haven’t been to all the tourist destinations in the Philippines, but, among all the places we have been to, Balabac is definitely the best so far.

The Islands

Most of the islands of Balabac are unspoiled. We wish it will remain like this — untouched and peaceful.   We hope that the local government is prepared for the influx of tourists and that Balabac tourism will be managed effectively to preserve its beauty while helping the locals to find additional source of income and showcase their products.

We noticed from the islands of Patawan, Tangkahan and Comiran the presence of human trash. It was sad to see those plastic bottles, shoes, slippers, plastic bags and usual trash being littered by many. We’re not saying they were directly thrown/left in the islands but we assume those are washed ashore from the sea. Not all islands have caretakers or regular clean-up schedules, so it is up to the local residents of Balabac and tourists if they will take the initiative.

In Onuk Island, wastewater from washing the dishes goes directly to the sea which may damage the corals.   We’re hoping that they can do something about it.

The Tour Operators

We planned our Balabac June 2018 trip in advance and as early as March, we contacted our prospect tour operators. We chose Kina Kuan or Ms. Helen since she’s being mentioned and recommended by many who visited Balabac from facebook travel groups. She’s also featured in Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS) which convinced us more. We’ve been texting and calling Ms. Helen since then, and arranged our island hopping tour. She’s very accommodating and helped us with our inquiries. We even requested her if she can include us with other groups as joiners and yes, we asked for a discount. Everything went well with our communications and updates. Fortunately, we have two other joiners which made us all get the discount. Jumping to our arrival in Balabac, Ms. Helen greeted and welcomed us at the port and guided us to register in the coast guard and police station – mandatory process for tourists. After that, she accompanied us to JD Lodge (Sing and Swing). We had talks with Ms. Helen and her husband Kuya Nonoy and inquired about our itineraries for the coming days. They do not have a detailed itinerary. Ms. Helen said we’ll go to three islands per day and said “Bahala ang bangkero sa inyo.” Since, it was a little vague, we further asked the order of the islands to give us a better picture of the schedules. The next day after we had our breakfast at Ms. Helen’s house (breakfast and dinner are usually done here), we started our first island hopping tour for Patawan, Patunggong and Tangkahan Islands which went well with plenty of food and drinking water. The second day, we discussed with her our scheduled overnight stay in Onuk Island. The itinerary according to them will just be Onuk and Comiran because it was imperative that we get to Onuk before noon because of the low tide. Given that fact, we agreed on this setup but reminded them on the third day itinerary that we should be able to visit the remaining 2 islands (Sicsican & Nasubata not considered during the 2nd day) plus the 3 destinations – Punta Sebaring, Mansalangan sandbar and Candaraman. They acknowledged the setup and so it happened.

We successfully visited Comiran Island and headed to Onuk Island where we planned to spend the night. In that evening, the two joiners shared their sentiments with Kuya Nonoy regarding our late dinner. Kuya Nonoy and another set of guests were boarded in a separate boat where our dinner (ingredients and the like) was placed. This was when the unfortunate events occurred.   Kuya Nonoy did not take the sentiments well. We didn’t witness the actual scene, but as per these two joiners, Kuya Nonoy told them that they can get the full refund the following day and discontinue the island hopping tour (3rd & last day). They’re willing to continue the tour as long as Kuya Nonoy apologizes. Our boat captain served as a mediator for both parties telling them that Kuya Nonoy had high blood pressure during the argument and will talk to them in the morning. In that morning, we thought everything will be fine since we had a good start of breakfast. We had a quick chat with Kuya Nonoy regarding what happened the night before. We told him, “Kausapin niyo lang po, magiging okay din po yan”   He answered, “Sabi niyo yan ah” with a smile. Good thing they were able to talk things out and so our tour continued. As we’re about to depart for the island hopping, we discussed about the itinerary for that day (the agreed 5 islands that we need to cover). Kuya Nonoy and our bangkeros were telling us that we may not be able to visit all 5 since Onuk Island’s distance from them may take 4 hours more or less. He offered other sets of islands near Onuk but we refused since we had a prior agreement on the itineraries and we knew we can’t skip Punta Sebaring and Mansalangan sandbar as we heard they’re one of the highlights in Balabac. Kuya Nonoy checked his phone and somehow tried to reorganize things and look for a pump boat (a faster boat). When he returned, he told us we can’t continue our tour and they’re just going to give the full refund. We were shocked. He even told us “ngayon lang kami nagkaroon ng ganyang guests” and “hindi kayo welcome sa Balabac.” In that unexpected event, we agreed to return to mainland Balabac still in shock. But we have to move on. When we arrived at Ms. Helen’s house, we saw our bags outside. We greeted her calmly first and she then told us that we can get our things and leave. We told her about the refund mentioned by her husband (Kuya Nonoy) but she insisted she’s not going to give any refund because it was not her who promised the full refund but her husband. And that’s where we ended up in the police station to formalize the complaints. Both sides of the stories were heard by the police officers and let us decide (4 of us) if we are still going to file a case or make an amicable settlement that satisfies both parties. The two joiners decided to pursue the case but we decided to just get the refund for the remaining day of the tour.

It was a shocking and traumatic experience for us. We even thought of leaving Balabac right away and to never go back. But after thinking things through, we decided to stay.   This unfortunate event made us extend one more day to see the remaining islands.

The situation could’ve been handled differently. We hope that Ms. Helen and Kuya Nonoy will take this experience as a lesson to them to improve their service. We should take things professionally and be open to suggestions, recommendations and constructive criticism.

We’re grateful to Ms. Lorna Mortega and her crews for taking care of us after our ordeal with Ms. Helen and her husband. Thank you Ms. Lorna for taking care of our tour!

The beauty of Balabac far outweighed the not so good experiences we had during our trip so we would still consider going back and encourage everyone to experience Balabac for yourself!

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18 comments.

This article is overflowing with info, overwhelming! Thank you for sharing! Now, I need to update our itinerary to accomodate Balabac. Blessings!

Hi Christine! Thank you for the warm words, appreciate that. Safe travels and enjoy!

When did you go to balabac?

Hi Kristine.

Last week of June 2018.

Balabac is a very beautiful place but it looks like getting a good tour operator is a challenge. We went for Kapitan Andong Noe and the experience was also not that good. Very far from the experiences we had with the tour operators/boat men from Coron, El Nido and Puerto Princesa who are all very warm and kind.

Yes, meals were ok but he and his wife are very rude. You can’t get to really relax when they are around because they keep on shouting and cursing at their staff in front of the guests. You also have to endure listening to Kap Andong’s “amazing stories”. We, and the other guests are just trying to avoid him as much as possible whenever we are at the camp site. They are also not that pleasant in dealing with their guests.

We were not able to go to Onuk island because he is not in good terms with the owner. We were also not able to visit Candaraman and the other islands we wanted to visit because they insisted on us following their itinerary.

We wanted so much to be back but looking for a nice boat operator is a real challenge. It’s a good thing though that we learned that the boatman on our 2nd day of island hopping actually owns the boat. He is just being rented by Kap Andong for a very minimal amount (equivalent to the rate of 1 person, and there’s 7 of us in the boat). He is very kind. His name is Jeff and his contact number is 09104048817.

Thank you for sharing your experience. Sorry to hear that you had that challenges with your tour operator. Balabac is still a rising tourist destination and we see rooms for improvement. By sharing our experiences, these would help others to manage their expectations and thus contribute to the betterment of Balabac tourism.

Hopefully when you return to Balabac everything will be improved.

I would definitely love to visit this place, hope to find a group where i can join in exploring balabac.

There are a lot of travel groups in Facebook which you can check to join them in their Balabac tour. Check https://www.facebook.com/groups/diytravelphilippines/

Very informative post, we’re planning next year, March, 2020. Thanks

Thank you for reading our blog! 🙂

very nice place and recommended to visit

Your post and your pictures are truly inspiring, thank you so much. I have never heard of Balabac until recently. But from then on, I’ve been dreaming of going there, the last paradise in the Philippines’ last frontier.

Thank you for reading our blog. Go explore Balabac when you have the chance. The place will not disappoint you. 🙂

Wonderful ,thank you just the information I needed..reaching balabac mid Jan 2020 on a DIY If anyone is planning to be there Same time can catch up

Thank you! Pretty sure there are others planning to go to Balabac by 2020. Check travel groups to get some company. 😉

PLEASE, COME TO OUR ISLAND, TANGKAHAN ISLAND, IT’S WAS VERY BEAUTIFUL SCENERY, THE BEACH IS CELAN ANF MANY MORE, AND THE COMUNITY OVER THERE IS VERY KIND AND FRIENDLY, MEET US OVER THERE, AND ENJOY THE BEAUTY AND UNTOUCHABLE SCENERY, AT THIS BELOVED PARADISE ISLAND… THANK YOU..

nakakamiss sa Tangkahan! napakaganda po sa isla ninyo. hope to return soon.

I am excited to spend time in Palawan and Balabac in particular, hopefully for a month from mid November – mid December of this year (2021)>I know its better in summer, but I hope my experience in winter will be a good one as well. I will keep it simple with a small backpack, so that I’m flexible mid December – early January I will explore Cebu and Siargao, I am already vaccinated, so I hope it all works out

12 Things to do in Balabac + Tourist Spots

If you’re looking for the best beaches & most vibrant waters in the Philippines, look nowhere else. Balabac is worth a spot at the VERY TOP of your bucketlist.

Balabac is the southernmost group of islands in Palawan. It is so far south that Sabah, in East Malaysia is nearer to Balabac than Puerto Princesa, the provincial capital of Palawan.

The main draw here are 31 gorgeous islands still vastly undiscovered by tourist crowds. These islands are surrounded by pristine, crystal clear waters and white sand beaches. Yes, the sandy shores of many beaches here are a blinding white to off-white, many even have a blushed pink hue!

Here’s a list of beautiful places to visit in Balabac including top things to do & the best Balabac tourist spots.

To make your trip planning easy, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app. Seeing all your saved locations on the map will help you get started on planning your Balabac itinerary and know the best areas to stay, near places you want to go.

See also: Balabac Travel Guide Blog , Best Travel Apps .

View all travel tips on: Balabac .

1. Punta Sebaring Beach & Bugsuk Island

Location : Bugsuk Island, Balabac, Palawan province, MIMAROPA region, Philippines . Save on Google Maps .

See rates & book online

Balabac Tour B – Sandbars

Book your trip to Balabac

Before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip! Click below to compare rates & read reviews:

Tours + discounts Flights

Popular tours & discounts booked by other travelers:

Balabac Tour A – Islands

Balabac Tour C – Onok Island

For more travel inspiration,  follow Detourista on :

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2. Onok Island (Roughton Island)

Location : Balabac, Palawan . Save on Google Maps .

3. Patawan Island

4. Pink Island (Comiran/Camiaran Island)

5. Canibungan Island

6. Nasubata Reef & Pulau Bato

7. Mansalangan Sandbar

Location : Balabac, Palawan

8. Candaraman Island

9. Patongong Island

10. Cape Melville Lighthouse

11. Indalawan Falls & Indalawan Beach

12. Sicsican Island

Where to go near Balabac & beyond

Ursula Island, Bataraza

Location : near Rio Tuba, Bataraza, Palawan . Save on Google Maps .

Tabon Caves National Park

Location : Quezon, Palawan . Save on Google Maps .

Puerto Princesa City

Location : Palawan Island . Save on Google Maps .

Puerto Princesa Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

Top discounts

Puerto Princesa Underground River Day Tour w/ Buffet Lunch

Puerto Princesa – El Nido Shuttle Transfers

Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour

See more : Puerto Princesa City travel tips

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Balabac that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Balabac

Balabac tourist spots, things to do in Balabac, where to go in Balabac & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Puerto Princesa

Click below & search recommended Puerto Princesa hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Don’t Stop Here

Click below for more travel inspiration:

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• Philippines

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Balabac Island: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Palawan’s Last Frontier

Dubbed as the last of the last frontier of the Philippines, the Balabac Group of Islands is one of the most beautiful islands in Palawan that you could have ever visited. Home to unspoiled white-sand beaches, finest sand bars, brilliantly colored coral reefs, a wide range of marine life, and bountiful flora and fauna. If you are keen on exploring virgin beaches and secluded islands, this island paradise is a must-visit! 

Compared with the two popular island destinations in Palawan, El Nido and Coron are much more accessible than Balabac. It is a more remote island paradise that takes long hours of travel to get there. But once you get here, you can have the opportunity to have a full experience of island life – a one-of-a-kind lifetime experience! Much closer to nature with a more serene atmosphere and having a chance of getting completely disconnected from social media.

In this blog, you will learn more about Balabac, how to get there, things to do, what to see, and everything you need to know about this trip. This travel guide to Balabac, Palawan, will surely help you if you plan to visit the island soon.

Table of Contents

Travel Guidelines & Requirements (as of 2022)

Although Balabac is now open for tourists, there are still travel guidelines and requirements that you need to follow. In this case, here are some of the documents that you need to showcase at the airport from Manila.

• A negative result of Antigen (accomplished within the last 48 hours before arrival in Palawan)
• Vaccination card
• Approved S-Pass from the local government of Balabac
• Returned flight tickets

About Balabac, Palawan

Balabac Group of Islands is located in the southernmost part of Palawan and is known as the last of the last frontier of the Philippines. It has 36 islands where some are uninhabitat, while some of them are uninhabited and are still unexplored. 

Balabac is about 50 kilometers (31 miles) north of Sabah, Malaysia, across Balabac Strait, which is just a few hours away. Don’t be surprised as most of the islands here are owned by the local politicians and some locals living in Balabac. This island is also home to some species, and one of them is the nocturnal Philippine mouse-deer ( or Pilandok in Tagalog ) which can only be found on the island. In addition, the island is also rich in marine species such as dugongs, sawfishes, sea turtles, and saltwater crocodiles.

How to get to Balabac, Palawan?

From manila to puerto princesa.

Since there is no direct flight to Balabac, you need to book a flight to Puerto Princesa instead. Airlines such as Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia offer flights daily. You may opt to book a flight from any of these airline companies. Better yet, wait for their offered promos to score cheaper flights bound for Puerto Princesa .

From Puerto Princesa to Balabac

Take a van heading to Buliluyan Port. It takes 5-6 hours from the city to the port. Kindly note that your contact tour guide from Balabac will pick you up from the city. If you opt to travel by yourself, it is not highly recommended at the moment since it is mandatory to book a package tour to the island. Then from Buliluyan Port, you need to ride a boat heading to your base camp. It takes approximately 2 hours or more to get there. 

Exploring the islands of Balabac, Palawan

The Balabac Group of Islands consists of 36 islands in total. Some of them are inhabited, while some of them are not. These are some of the following islands that you can get a chance to see. 

• Canimeran Island

After long hours of traveling, we finally reached our first island destination, Canimeran Island. This was our first destination since it is the closest island to the port. We had our lunch here and took some time to take pictures. As we got down the boat, we were welcomed by the crystal clear water of the shore and its fine white sand. The island is filled with lush rows of coconuts. We were also able to see some peacocks and island dogs during our visit.

• Patawan Island

Our next island stop. The island has got its unique charm. Its pristine sand with a mild tint of pink and turquoise seawater is good for swimming. From its aerial point of view, the island looks like a dolphin, making the island more beautiful and appealing. 

• Sicsican Island

This is our base camp. This is where we stayed for four days and four nights. You could stay and sleep in a tent or nipa hut during your stay. In our case, my friends and I stayed in nipa huts. The room is good for four people. It is just amazing because the nut is facing the sunrise view, so once you get up, you can get a chance to catch the sunrise. Meanwhile, you can watch the sunset on the other side of the island! 

It also boasts fine white sand and crystal clear waters of the ocean. Coconut trees also surround the island. Sicsican Island is also a good spot for freediving. You will love what the island offers underwater if you are a freediver. Some of my freediver friends got a chance to explore underwater! (wishing I could go with them) *sobs*

Starfish Island

Known as the Starfish Island, it is a long sandbar that is just a few minutes away from the shores of Candaraman Island. This is where you can get to see many starfish and get a chance to swim with them. Fortunate are those who arrive at the island during the low tide because it is much more visible.

It was high tide when we got there, but we still had fun looking at the starfish underwater. Even from the boat, you can still glimpse the starfish due to its clearwater!

Onok Island (Roughton Island)

This is indeed the most sought-after island amongst the islands of Balabac, Palawan. The island features wide-ranging shallow turquoise waters, a sandbar, wild sea turtles, and coral reefs. Truly one of the most beautiful islands I have ever seen; getting to this place was all worth it! On the 2nd day of our trip, we went here for lunch and spent some time exploring this tiny island. I must say that this is the highlight of our trip.

Onok Island is such a paradise! In addition, it also boasts giant clams underwater, where you can get a chance to see through snorkeling or freediving. Not to mention its beautiful boardwalk and tiny houses built on stilts. It was an amazing, memorable day for us—a perfect island in perfect weather.

• Nasubata Reef

Nasubata Reef is just nearby Onok Island. This is the most popular spot for snorkeling and freediving. Explore and see the beauty of coral reefs and the wide range of aquatic species underwater.

Mansalangan Sandbar

One of the sandbars you can visit during your island hopping tours in Balabac. This is one of the longest islands in the Philippines! Also one of the most beautiful and one of my favorite spots we visited!

Punta Sebaring (Bugsuk Island)

I think this is the farthest island that we have ever visited. We took long hours to get here while facing the huge waves. Despite that, it was worth seeing the island. Although you have to be very careful with sand mines (locally known as niknik), it is still one of the best sandbars and beaches ever! As we docked our boat near the shore, I told myself that I wouldn’t go down to avoid getting bitten by the niknik. But our tour guide convinced me to get down to experience the beauty of the island that it offers. 

So I got off our boat and went to the shore, not minding the niknik bites that I might get after. As I stepped on the island’s sand, I just felt mesmerized by it! I could say that this island has got the powdery and finest sandbar I set foot on! It amazed me. One of the best island beaches I have ever seen so far! I enjoyed walking for a while; my feet sank into the sand. Thanks to our local tour guide, I got some stories about Punta Sebaring.

• Candaraman Island

The island also offers the finest white sandbar with a vast expense of clear water.

• Tangkahan Island

This is our final stop on the last day of our trip since we had to get back to Buliluyan Port and Puerto Princesa City. 

Sample Balabac, Palawan Itinerary for 4D3N

Here is the sample Balabac itinerary for four days and three nights. This gives you an idea of what you can expect from your entire trip. 

• Pick up from Puerto Princesa to Buliluyan Port. 
• Start of island hopping.

Destinations:

• Camp at Sicsican Island.

Island Hopping Tour.

• Starfish Sandbar
• Onok Island
• Back to base camp
• Mansalangan sandbar
• Bragi Island
• Punta Sebaring
• Back to base camp. 

Island Hopping in the morning.

Head back to the city. 

Destinations: 

• Canibungan Island

Budget and Expenses

My friends and I got our all-in package tour from Kamp Malaya for only Php 10,990 pesos per person. This includes the following: 

• Roundtrip AC Van transfer(shared) PPS to Buliluyan Port
• Roundtrip boat transfer
• full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
• all entrance fees
• Accommodation (fan room)
• Tent (island camp)
• tour insurance
• local tour guide

Take note that the cost depends on how many people join the tour. In our case, we are a group of twelve. For the budget, it is safe to have at least Php 15,000 for the entire trip, excluding the airfare. 

Recommended Tour Guide

To experience the best Balabac Island Hopping tours, you may contact Kuya Motet Sason from Kamp Malaya through his personal Facebook page. He was our tour operator during our trip! He’s very kind and friendly! Apart from that, he offers the best service ever! Highly recommended! You may also contact him via Instagram (@kampmalaya) . 

Things to do on the island

• Go snorkeling.
• Go freediving.
• Catch the sunrise and the sunset.
• Connect with the locals.
• Have lots of seafood.
• Try some snacks from Malaysia. A little trivia about the island, our local guide said that 80% of their food comes from Malaysia.
• Go stargazing.
• Go camping.

Here are some of my photos taken by @the.christian.cee.

Where to stay

Suppose you are wondering where to stay on Balabac Island. In that case, you can stay at some beach camps such as Punta Sebaring, on the southern end of Bugsuk Island, Candaraman Island, and Sicsican Island (which was our base camp during our visit). You may also have an overnight stay on Onok Island but expect higher rates for this experience since this is a privately-owned island.

Things to Bring

• Insect repellent for mosquitoes and sand mines
• Extra batteries or power bank
• Snorkeling set and fins
• Extra food and snacks.
• Power Extension
• Your best outfit for the trip. (Of course, it shouldn’t be missed!)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to go to Balabac Island?

Palawan is considered one of the safest tourist destinations in the Philippines. Though Balabac Island is located at the southernmost tip of Palawan, it is safe to go to the island. This is where you get to meet the country’s nicest and friendliest people.

When is the best time to visit Balabac?

The best time to visit Balabac Island is from March to May since this is the summertime in the Philippines. The sea is much calmer, and you can have the best weather during these months. 

Is there a signal on the island?

The signal on every island is very limited and unstable most of the time. This is the perfect chance to escape from reality. Indeed a perfect place to detach yourself from the real world. 

How much is the budget for the trip?

The ideal budget would be around Php 15,000 to Php 17,000. Provide at least Php 2,000 for the airfare (promo price). Allot Php 11,000 for your entire Balabac Island tour (just take note that this budget was based on a group of twelve). Then, the remaining budget is for the extra expenses of your food, pasalubong, and accommodation in Puerto Princesa. You can find discounted rooms through Airbnb, Reddoorz, Agoda, and Zen Rooms. 

Is there electricity on the island?

The island has a limited source of electricity. The generator only runs at night from 6 PM to 6 AM, so make sure you get all your batteries charged within this time. 

How many islands are there in Balabac, Palawan?

The Balabac Group of Islands has 36 islands located in the Balabac Strait. 

How long is the travel time from Puerto Princesa to Balabac?

Travel time to Balabac from Puerto Princesa is approximately 5-6 hours. Make sure you bring your travel pillow and have a more comfortable seat in the van. 

Are there ATMs on the island?

No. So make sure you bring extra cash before heading to the island. 

Who to contact for Balabac Island Hopping Tours?

Kindly contact Kamp Malaya Tours or Kuya Motet on their Facebook page for more information. 

How many days should I spend staying in Balabac?

The ideal would be five days and four nights. It is highly recommended to arrive at Puerto Princesa the day before your trip to Balabac. It takes 5-6 hours to get to Buliluan Port, then hours to arrive at your first island destination. That being said, spend your first day in Puerto Princesa City. So make sure to book a flight the day before your trip to Balabac! 

If you are wondering where to stay in Palawan, you may consider Hillside Resort , one of my favorite places to stay in the city. If you still have extra time to spare, you can also explore nearby islands by booking Honda Bay Island Hopping Tours in Puerto Princesa.

Traveling to Balabac Island is not as affordable as it may seem. But you will never regret visiting this island paradise. If you are up for new adventures and discover a less touristic island destination yet one of the best, you must go to Balabac soon!

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A travel blogger in the Philippines and a K-pop enthusiast, Ara Patria (The Adventuress) pursues her passion and love for traveling. She’s been blogging for years, where she writes about her own travel experiences and promotes the wonders of the Philippines. Not only does she promote the beauty of her country, but she also focuses on promoting sustainable tourism. She dreams of traveling the world and inspiring other people through her own written works and captured moments with her camera.

The Adventuress is a travel blogger with a purpose. She aims to inspire other people through her personal experiences, stories, and lenses. Outside her blogging world, she is an education, an SEO specialist, and TEFL/TESOL certified.

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2 thoughts on “ Balabac Island: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Palawan’s Last Frontier ”

Thank you so much for all your informative travel itinerary to Balabac,Palawan especially your island hopping tours. I will definitely visit all these beautiful islands.You can be my travel buddy !!! Hope to meet you soon.Take care and stay safe. Best, Juliet

Thank you!!! Travel soon!

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BALABAC ISLANDS: DIY Travel Guide, Budget + Itinerary To Palawan’s Last Frontier

Balabac at a glance.

For time and time again, Palawan is hailed as the most beautiful island in the world and it’s all for good reasons. This island province has the natural wonders fit to describe an impeccable paradise. Palawan has it all from stunning islands bordered by towering limestone rocks, white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, amazing dive spots, gorgeous lagoons to caves and abundant rain forests. You’ll never go wrong with this island whether you would choose to nature trip in Puerto Princesa , get lost in the otherworldly beauty of Coron or fall in love with the irresistible charm of El Nido . These three will no doubt blow your mind away, yet beyond their unrivaled glory is another spot that is quickly on the rise and is on its way to take the spotlight. That folks is Balabac Islands.

Balabac is a group of islands situated south of Palawan. For years, people have evaded this part as it had quite a nasty reputation for killer crocodiles, witchcraft (a resort owner in Puerto Princesa warned me about it in 2014) and terrorist groups. Little did we know how wonderful of a jewel this place is until it opened its doors in recent years. In a snap, Balabac has gradually made a turn for the better as it brings in more travelers, whose eyes are aching to see an untouched beauty, into its world. The once feared Balabac Islands has now become one of the most coveted destinations in the country. Talk about a makeover and this place has outdone itself. But with all the hype going on about this group of islands down south of the world’s best Palawan, is it really worth it?

Getting To Know The Pride Islands Of Balabac

• Patawan Island – Patawan Island is a small island with fine white sand shores and clear blue waters. It has a sandbar which is only visible during low tide. Aerial photos show this island is shaped like a dolphin.
• Tangkahan Island – Tangkahan Island has a long stretch of fine white sand beaches lined with coconut trees. The surrounding waters are also of clear blue and is ideal for chilling.
• Candaraman Island – Candaraman Island is a fishing village island. Often times, this is where visitors are taken to spend the night as it is strategically located near the other islands.
• Candaraman Sandbar – Surrounding Candaraman Island are not just waters perfect for some snorkeling but it also has a sandbar so vast it is dotted by a thousand sea stars.
• Mansalangan Sandbar – Mansalangan is an S-shaped sandbar in the middle of the sea. Its sands are sugary with inviting blue waters around them.
• Canabungan Island – Canabungan Island is another island of fine white sand and clear turquoise waters. What sets it apart though are the pine-like trees lined along its shores.
• Punta Sebaring – If there is an island that could beat Boracay and the fineness of its sands, that would be Punta Sebaring. Not only it is powdery but it is unbelievably soft and velvety to the touch. Just be careful with stingrays though.
• Onuk Island – Onuk Island is arguably the most popular island of Balabac and probably the one which put it on the map. It’s the most expensive too but what people can’t seem to get enough about this island is the turquoise green water, that surrounds it, which expands as far as the end of the horizon. Just don’t expect much about it sands as Punta Sebaring can give this island a run for its money with ease.

Our 4D3N Tour Itinerary

My visit in Balabac Islands was long overdue. I had my eyes on this place since 2014 but several roadblocks made it impossible for me to go for a visit not until 5 years later. And even after finally realizing that dream of exploring this enchanting place, my time there was far from perfect. There were drizzles here and there and the sun refused to shine almost throughout our entire stay. The seas were too menacing that everytime we tried to set sail, they become wild. It scared the heck out of me, although I still think they’re nothing compared to those of Babuyan [ Read:   BABUYAN ISLANDS: A First-Timer’s Budget Travel Guide + Itinerary To The Hidden Jewels Of The Extreme North ]. Balabac Islands may have not been at its best behavior during our visit but we certainly had some of the best moments.

Our first day in Palawan was simply spent getting to Rio Tuba and scouring for places to spend the night in so the touring didn’t start until the next day. We arrived in Puerto Princesa at 10AM but the 6-hour drive to Rio Tuba got us there at 8PM which is pretty late (considering Rio Tuba’s standard) that the nicest lodges and inns were already fully booked or worse closed. Left with no other choice, we settled in a rundown motel near the bus station. At 6AM the following morning amidst heavy rainfall, we headed down to the port to catch our boat going to Balabac Island. My friend whom I was traveling with at the time took care of all the planning that I simply went with the flow and uttered not a single complaint even when I was at the point of being clueless. Lol. He actually didn’t tell me anything other than the tour be setting us back P3000/person/day and that he’s already in contact with a local tour coordinator who will be meeting us in Bancalaan Island.

Day 1 - Patawan, Tangkahan & Candaraman Islands

The rain subsided at 8AM and we were then finally given a go to set sail. After 2 hours, we reached Bancalaan Island, which was marvelous even under the gloomy skies, that I started to believe in having an amazing time in Balabac. Well, the panic didn’t start until we realized we didn’t have mobile signal on both of our phones and the locals whom we were supposed to meet were nowhere in sight. The passenger boat that took us there was long gone and we were the only people at the port that no matter how mesmerizing were the views, the air began to give me chills everytime it caressed my skin. Not long after, I felt a dire need to use the loo but couldn’t find one. As I was looking around, I saw a house from a distance. I sped towards it only to get bummed as it was closed and empty. I circled the house while grabbing my crotch to prevent me from peeing myself. Just when I was about to go into the woods to relieve myself, I saw the owner of the house and without second thoughts, I asked if I could use the restroom and she agreed.

Emerging from the house after that much needed trip to the restroom, I looked for my travel bud and found him in the company of some local habal-habal drivers. I walked towards them and heard them talking about our local tour coordinator. Every one of them seemed to know him and assured us of his credibility, which somehow made us feel better. The waiting went on for another 30 minutes under the pouring skies. When the rain had stopped along with the wind, the seas calmed down. Not long after, a tiny speedboat emerged from a distance and in no time was already ashore. Two men (maybe in their 20s) disembarked and headed our way. Turns out, they were exactly whom we were waiting for.

After a brief introduction, we started with island hopping. I was kinda not expecting the vessel of choice for this voyage, a tiny speedboat and not the usually average sized outrigger boat but i saved the questioning for later. We reached our first island, Patawan, after 30 minutes. At first glance, it was just another island with white sand beach but I came to love it more after we disembarked. The island was just small and you can actually circle its entirety in a matter of 20 minutes. What I love about it is that it’s stunning even under the drizzles. It looked immaculate as it was so clean. Zero trash if my memory serves me well. We settled there for more than an hour, had lunch, snapped some photos and went for a quick dip. After that, we went to our next island, Tangkahan. This one, I didn’t find special. Maybe because it was filthy with wooden debris and some trash but it has the same white sugary sands and turquoise water which would have taken my breath away had the situation been different.

The longest and most nerve wracking part of this day’s tour was going to Candaraman Island, our home for the next three days. Not only did the rain was unforgiving but the waves were monstrous. Salt water splashed our faces from every direction. The speedboat struggled with every current. I, trying to hold it in to prevent me from throwing up. Us, shivering from the cold as we tried to get through the voyage and reach our next island. The rollercoaster ride continued for another hour that even when Candaraman Island was already in sight, time seemed to take forever. At long last after two butt-numbing hours, we disembarked and felt Candaraman Island’s silky smooth sands against the soles of our feet.

Day 2 - Canabungan Island, Mansalangan Sandbar & Punta Sebaring

The next day, we went for a dip first thing in the morning to get my energy up. I had trouble sleeping through the night as the room we were in was unbelievably warm and outside was infested with mosquitoes which seemed to be immuned of off lotion. At 7AM, they called us for coffee and breakfast and an hour later, we went to start with the island hopping. Our first island was Canabungan. The island has white sand beaches lined with pine-like trees. Stood along the beach were native huts. I wasn’t particularly attracted to this island as it was filled with trash like wine/liquor bottles, plastic wrappers and even old appliances. I thought, someone should at least keep these islands clean as the amount of money people spend just to see them is no joke. At least make them worth every penny.

Our next stop was Mansalangan Sandbar but we came at the wrong time since the sandbar is already submerged and the water was already knee deep. We still disembarked and spent half an hour dipping and taking some photos. Our guides agreed that we will go back and stop by the sandbar during low tide. We then proceed to our third island, Punta Sebaring (technically, it’s a beach within Bugsuk Island). Thirty minutes later, we were ashore and were careful not to get stung by stingrays as we struggled to walk to the main beach. Punta Sebaring probably has the softest, finest and whitest sands among the beaches I‘ve visited that taking a step was such a task with our legs sinking deep to the knee every damn time. I would have started to believe that paying P3000/day for our tour was worth it had I not seen kilometer stretch of beach filled with so much garbage. I mean Punta Sebaring is not a doubt precious and a jewel in itself but the filth just stole away its charm.

Day 3 - A Thousand Stars & Onuk Island

Despite one disappointment after another, we stayed positive and still hoped, we will find something that will make us believe Balabac is worth it. I mean, the monsoon rain shouldn’t give them an excuse to neglect the islands and leave trash scattered on their shores. Like, how come Patawan Island was so immaculately clean while the others didn’t even come close? That, I would always wonder. Our third day was sort of a make or break which made me anxious and excited at the same time. I worried about Balabac not living up to its reputation but I can’t help but look forward to whatever it still has to offer.

We started with island hopping early as we want to visit the farthest island that promises a pink sand beach. Our first stop was the Candaraman Sandbar and this, I would say, was one of the highlights of this entire Balabac tour. We didn’t get to see the sandbar and its glory during low tide but even with the water being waist deep, I was still swooned over. Imagine a vast pool that stretched as far as my eyes can see with its clear blue waters underneath filled with a thousand sea stars lying in a bed of fine white sands. That is something you don’t get to experience everyday and it’s priceless.

Trying to get our minds off Candaraman Sandbar, we head out to see Onuk Island. The weather has gotten better each day and this particular day was practically sunny. The voyage to Onuk Island lasted almost two hours, that by the time we arrived there, it was almost time for lunch. From afar, Onuk Island didn’t seem any special (considering the entrance fee of P1500/person) but as we neared, I was mesmerized by the turquoise water that surround it which stretched until the horizon. The only thing that upset me was the extremely large area of dead corals. I don’t know what contributed to their demise but I totally found it disturbing.

The stormy clouds quickly gathered while we were having lunch in Onuk Island. Good thing, we were already done with our photo sesh and all that was left was exploring and we certainly got no problems doing it in the rain. The rain came and was relentless but we took comfort in it while dipping in the warm waters of Onuk Island. Not long after, it stopped. We then went to snorkel in the deeper parts and were amazed to find some healthy corals teeming with fishes of various species and several giant clams! The last time I saw giant clams naturally abundant in an island was in Pass Island in Coron (that place and everything else on that tour are one for the books). A few minutes before the clock hit the hour of three in the afternoon, our local guides told us we should get going or we risk having a hard time sailing back to the main Balabac Island. We were no longer visiting the Pink Island (which was such a bum) as it was going to take another hour to get there and the main Balabac Island is still three hours away.

Day 4 - A Day Of Sleeping, Food & Horror Flicks

Our 4th day was pretty much uneventful. We initially planned to see some waterfalls and the lighthouse but gave it up over hours of sleeping and waking up only to eat (and honestly, the tour was quite expensive). When we felt like it, we would go walking along the main street of the town, observing the locals who seemed more Malaysian than Filipinos from the food they eat to the commodities they consume. We would also frequent the port and scare ourselves of crocs lurking in those murky waters. And in between banter, I would silently nettle over how could this place be so damn filthy!

And before I forget, might I mention that we met a new friend, Rham, who is such a softy to cats and kids. While I was all about saving every penny I have left, he just had no problem spending a thousand bucks to buy a local kid a pair of sandals. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for charity but it totally depends on the situation. I mean, we were actually down to the last of our pocket money. Still, kudos to his good heart which is why I am dedicating this paragraph to him. Thank you for putting up with me and my travel buddy and for being so patient throughout those five days. You’ll be every girl’s dream Instagram boyfriend. Lol.

My Overall Thoughts

• The Balabac Islands is no doubt beautiful and charming. Each of its islands has something special to offer. However, I think it pales in comparison to Coron and El Nido . Guess, its most redeeming quality and the only factor that made it better than the other two is that it’s not yet crowded.
• Is Balabac Islands worth the price? I would say, I wouldn’t spend anything more than P1500/day for a tour which is  inclusive of food, accommodation and entrance fees. I just don’t think, seeing three islands in a day would warrant a higher price especially if not all of them would take my breath away.
• Is Balabac Islands good for solo travelers? If you have no qualms paying P10000/day for a tour because you would most likely not find anyone to share the tour with, then yes. But if you are on a budget, then better go here with a group. Ideal is at least 5 people. 
• Is Balabac Islands safe? Balabac Islands, in general, is peaceful. People are kind, friendly, accommodating and are always ready to help. As a precaution, try to blend in. Avoid drawing attention to yourself. Always be with a local guide when exploring the area. Notify authority of your whereabouts. Lastly, don’t stay out late. And if you are worried about the crocs, just stay away from the waters in the main Balabac town where they can be lurking around waiting for its prey.
• What is my biggest turn off about Balabac Islands? It’s filthy. It’s probably the filthiest part of Palawan in my opinion. I mean, for a place being advertised as a paradise, they could at least keep the islands clean. The main Balabac Island is filled with trash. The seawater at the port is murky. I get that locals live in stilt houses on the shores but it is hardly an excuse. Some travelers would say that if you wanna appreciate Balabac, skip the main island and just see the islands meant for touring but for me, it just makes no sense. A place can be the most beautiful in the eye but I will never patronize anything that doesn’t aim for sustainability and care for the environment.
• What do I think should be improved? I think it’s time for the local tourism department to take over the touring operations and establish a centralized system that would be beneficial for all the parties involved. This would make visiting Balabac easier and more affordable for solo travelers or those in smaller groups as they can just be pooled together to share the total cost of the tour. In addition to that, the local tourism department should also set specific guidelines that will aim to preserve the environment and counter the impact of tourism in the area.
• Is Balabac worth it? With all things considered e.g. price, travel time, comfort etc, I’d say I’ve seen better places. I mean it’s some place I’ve been to once but not some place I would love to go back to.
• Would I still recommend visiting Balabac? Of course! Balabac may have disappointed me but I would still recommend people to see it. These are just my opinion. Yours might be different.

How To Go To Balabac

Fly to Puerto Princesa via PAL or CebuPac. From the airport, ride a tric to the van terminal going to Rio Tuba. Take the van to Rio Tuba. From there, ride the passenger boat going to Balabac Island. This route is ideal for travelers without tour reservations yet and are planning to arrange their tours with the locals once they get there. Alternatively from Puerto Princesa, ride a van going to Buliluyan Port. There you can meet with your tour organizer and get started with island hopping.

Note:   There is only one boat trip daily from Rio Tuba to Balabac Islands which departs at 8AM. Similarly, only one boat travels to Rio Tuba from Balabac daily at 5AM.

Useful Tips

• The best time to visit Balabac is from March to November. December to February tends to be the months when Amihan Season is at its strongest which means totally unsafe and rough seas in Balabac Islands.
• If you would visit Balabac, I would suggest allocating a week. This should give you enough time to explore the islands since merely traveling to the jumpoff points, Rio Tuba or Buliluyan, would consume a day. This should also cover some days that you will not be able to go on tour during rains or unfriendly seas.
• When booking your flights to Puerto Princesa, get the 1AM or 2AM schedule if available. This should get you to Puerto Princesa before 4AM and to Rio Tuba or Buliluyan at 8AM, allowing you to start with the touring right away with not a day wasted in your itinerary. You can arrange your van transfer with Hajija – (0909) 724 0847 at an affordable price.
• Rio Tuba and Balabac Islands are predominantly Muslim communities.  Although there’s a good number of Christians in the mix, expect that most eateries don’t offer pork dishes.
• Arrange your tour with a local coordinator ahead of time to know how much exactly will you be spending since the price to visit Balabac can be quite steep. If you are traveling solo, ask your local coordinator if you can be joined with other groups. If not, try to look for companions or join organized tours on Facebook.
• Make sure to confirm the inclusions of the tour quoted amount. Some tours don’t include the accommodation, food and entrance fees. Note that entrance fee to Onuk Island is always not included and would be paid by you should you opt to go there.
• The boat being used for the tour is a speedboat which could fit 7 tour participants and 2 tour guides. I was told this is the more ideal vessel since it can navigate through huge waves unlike outrigger boats. 
• During touring proper, your home island will either be Candaraman or Punta Sebaring. The possibility of your tour coordinator taking you back to the town island to spend the night is slim as it may consume too much time. Expect little comfort since your bedroom would either be a tent or a nice little hut. There would be plenty of fresh running water though.
• Bring plenty of mosquito repellent (off lotion). Mosquitos in Balabac are a total bother. Bring caladryl and terramycin in case the repellent fail to do its job. 
• There’s hardly a mobile signal in Balabac Islands for all networks. Android phones get better reception than iPhones. 
• After the island hopping tour, if your way back is Rio Tuba, you should reserve your boat ticket a day before your departure. The ticketing booth is at the port and is open from 1PM to 5PM only. 

Budget & Other Essentials

Where to stay.

In the event that you arrive in Puerto Princesa a bit late to travel to Rio Tuba and you need a place to stay, you might wanna consider these places.

Check Availability

Gallery - Awra Mode On!

There you have it lovelies.

I hope you find my Balabac story helpful. I know I haven’t been gentle with my words but these are merely my thoughts and they are meant to inform and not deter anyone from visiting Balabac. I’d say give it a go, have fun and make the most of it.  Until next time. Ciao

25 Things To Do In Boracay

Mt. mapalad: diy dayhike guide, budget + itinerary to an epic bali-like experience, related posts, maitum white water tubing: travel guide + useful tips, 5 best theme parks in the uae, travel guide: explore japan tourist attractions on a budget.

could I get the your balabac tour contact please?

It’s there on the blog

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Balabac Palawan: Visit Before It’s Gone

Incomparable with Coron and El Nido, Balabac Islands in the southern tip of Palawan has its own caliber of beauty. Still a virgin, Balabac group of Islands is untouched by commercialization and tourism, which makes it stand out from among all other tropic paradise in Asia, if not in the world.

The Virgin Islands of Balabac Palawan

You will find here the widest, longest and finest white beaches with sand so soft it feels like a marshmallow when you step on it. The vast expanse of clear waters in different shades of blue will make you feel like you’re in another world. Its unique features such as the pink beach, the starfish island, the white sandbars, and rock formations are some of the wonders you can explore while you’re there.

Real Quezon River Rafting Is Now Open! Experience River Rafting in Real Quezon, a family-friendly and nature-filled destination near Metro Manila! No travel pass or medical certificate required. Message us to make a reservation. Posted by The WanderWalkers on Wednesday, February 3, 2021

When reality looks like a screen saver ? A post shared by JP Swing | Manila, Philippines (@jaypeeswing) on Nov 27, 2017 at 9:31pm PST

A Beauty So Hard To Get… But Worth It

If it’s worth having, it’s worth fighting. You would definitely have to level up your fighting spirit as Balabac’s beauty doesn’t come easy on your body and wallet. It takes a full day to get to Rio Tuba port in the south from Puerto Princesa via public transportation. If you miss the van, you will have to wait another day. By private vehicle, it’s easier at around 5 hours.

From the port, you will then take long boat journeys to the islands which are far from each other. It would take around an hour by boat to get from one island to another. Here’s where the boat tour operator comes in. Boat tours are priced from a whopping 15,000 for a 4-day tour – not really accommodating for solo or couple adventurers unless you saved up a lot for this.

Once you get here, forget the comforts of the city. No electricity, no consistent signal to allow you to update your social media, no hotel rooms. Only pure adventure in the wild and beautiful outdoors. Sleep in a hammock or tent on an island, eat fresh seafood, watch the sunrise and sunset, and bask in the sun, sand, and sea.

Slowly Drifting A post shared by JP Swing | Manila, Philippines (@jaypeeswing) on Mar 6, 2016 at 12:11am PST

Tips When Visiting Balabac Island

• If you want to travel fast, travel alone. If you want to travel far, travel together. Join a group tour held by Balabac locals which will not only cut your costs , since everything else will be provided for (full board meals, tents/hammock, transportation, insurance and local guides) but will also increase your safety as compared to traveling in a solo or with a small group. Besides, there are no other tourists in Balabac, you will never feel it’s crowded even though you’re in a group. Click here to join find a group you can join.
• Best time to visit is in summer (March to May) because the waves are calmer and it’s safer to travel by small boats compared to the rainy season. However, Balabac is still breathtaking during other times of the year. Read this to know more about Balabac seasons.
• Bring your own snorkeling gears and dry bag. It’s 3 to 4 days of paradise islands, having your own water gears will be worth it.
• Cover up! Cover from the sun (sunscreen, shades and hat). Cover-up at night with long sleeves and pants. And cover-up at day with a rashguard, especially when in some islands where sand flies are present.
• Prepare your batteries and power banks. Only Balabac town proper has electricity. There are generators in some islands though.
• Bring extra cash. No ATMs in the area.
• Expect to rough it out. This trip is not for the spoon-fed luxurious travelers, but for those who enjoy off-the-beaten-track adventures.
• Book your flight to Puerto Princesa the day before your Balabac trip, and fly out the day before.
• Bring your personal medicines.
• Although it is safe for foreigners to travel in Balabac, it is still highly recommended to hire local guides.

Visit Now Before Commercialism Takes Over

Balabac has been kept as a hidden gem, mainly because of the difficult road access to it. However, roads have already been improved recently by the government, and the local authorities are in the process of establishing tourism guidelines, starting with fixing tariff and tour rates. Soon enough, Balabac may already be as popular as El Nido and Coron, losing its insanely untouched beauty.

Need Help Planning Your Visit? 

If you’re traveling from another country and coordinating with the locals is difficult, or if you’re a solo traveler who wants to visit Balabac while sharing the costs with other adventurers, just join this FB group to find people who are also planning to go to Balabac.

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[…] en van on dépasse largement les 12 000 pesos que m’ont coûté ces 4 jours entièrement organisés par les WanderWalkers Bateau traditionnel au lever de soleil Balabac ?111 vues Asie balabac […]

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Balabac, Palawan: A DIY Travel Guide to the Main Island

Balabac, the southernmost municipality of Palawan Province, has gained popularity as a tourist destination only in the past ten years. Fortunately, it remains non-touristy as compared to the northern destinations like El Nido and Coron . This is largely due to its remote location. To get to Balabac island from Puerto Princesa International Airport, one has to take a six-hour van ride to Buliyan Port, then transfer to a speedboat (1 hour) or ferry (2-3 hours) to the main island.

Most travelers to Balabac, however, don’t set foot on the main island of Balabac since they typically avail of island-hopping tour packages, which depart from the southernmost tip of the Palawan island. Multi-day tours take guests exploring the smaller, pristine white-sand islands and sand bars strung across the North Balabac Strait. On my first visit to Balabac in 2017, I joined an incredible island-hopping tour , where we swam, snorkeled and camped at these desolate, idyllic islands. Last March, I finally found the time to visit Balabac Island itself after a dive safari at Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park .

Balabac Town

There are a handful of historical and cultural sites one can visit in Balabac town, which is compact enough to be explored on foot. It only takes a few hours to half a day to explore the town. From my comfortable accommodation, Batalla’s Lodging House , I first walked to the Immaculate Conception Parish Church , a new church which was completed in 2015. The Roman Catholic edifice stands near the Masjid Awwal , the largest mosque in Balabac. A young boy offered to show me around the mosque and take me to the rooftop next to the large green dome, which overlooked the town.

Balabac town is surrounded by forested hills. On the western end of the settlement, the surrounding vegetation conceals the ruins of Fuerza de Principe Alfonso , a defense structure presently called Fort Culina . Southern Palawan, together with Balabac Island, used to be under the jurisdiction of the Sultanate of Brunei (1368-1888). In 1749, the area was ceded to the Spanish colonizers, who finally controlled the entire stretch of Palawan. According to this Spanish monograph , to prevent the usurpation of Balabac by British colonizers from Borneo, a Spanish military outpost was established on the island in 1858 and named Principe Alfonso after Alfonso XII (1857-1885), who would later become the King of Spain.

A short hike up a forested hill on the west side of town will take you to remains of the hexagonal fort with a watchtower. Sadly, the heritage site has deteriorated over the decades, having been vandalized by treasure hunters and neglected. One can barely see its adobe walls, which are now covered by shrubs and vines. I hope the municipal tourism office’s plans to restore the fort as a tourism site will become a reality soon.

My last stop on my walking tour is on the other side of town. Also situated on a hill, the Balabac Quincentennial Historical Marker is the newest tourist attraction. It belongs to a series of 34 concrete markers installed along the Philippine leg of the Magellan-El Cano expedition (1519-1522), commemorating the 500th anniversary of the first circumnavigation of the world.

Southern Day Tour

The most impressive heritage site in the municipality is a colonial-era lighthouse located on the southernmost end of Balabac Island. Cape Melville Lighthouse was built in 1892 to safeguard vessels traveling through Balabac Strait, between the Philippines and Malaysian Borneo. On the clearest of days, one could already see Banggi, an island belonging to Sabah, from here.

Unfortunately, getting there is no walk in the park like the previous landmarks. Typically, groups can hire a boat to take you there. Alternatively, solo travelers can also hire a motorcycle with driver (₱1,500). The hired driver has to be familiar with the destination, since getting there overland requires negotiating through tough off-road trails and forest paths, which can only be done in dry weather. On my second day, I hired local guide Tony Francis Valdez (Tel. +63 9514742861) to take me to the lighthouse, and visit a few more attractions along the way. Since there are no places to eat outside of town, I had to pre-order packed meals for breakfast and lunch for the guide and myself from Kusina ni Nanay Eths (Tel. +63 9311769563), whose owner works at the municipal tourism office.

The motorcycle trip from town to the lighthouse was one of the roughest rides I have ever experienced. It took us around two and a half hours to reach our final destination. Our route became progressively rougher the father away we traveled from town; we began cruising down a concrete highway, then winding dirt roads through coconut groves and seaside villages. Halfway through the trip, we stopped by La Isla Rancho , a desolate ranch with picnic tables and a mini-grocery (with cold drinks from Malaysia!), where we enjoyed our packed breakfast.

After brunch, we finally traversed dried-up rice fields with patches of thickets with no discernible paths for vehicles. The final stretch was a forested uphill hiking trail, where I had to get off and Francis had to push the motorcycle up a hill. But finally laying my eyes on Cape Melville Lighthouse after that butt-numbing excursion was worth all the trouble. Despite being in a derelict state – replaced by a modern lighthouse nearby – it was one of the grandest heritage lighthouses I’ve seen in the country. Rising 90 feet (27 m), its granite tower is the tallest among the Spanish-era lighthouses in the country, dominating the grassy coastal landscape.

While less comfortable than taking a boat, the advantage of traveling overland by motorcycle is that one can visit other tourist spots along the way. En route back to town, we visited a few natural sites like Indalawan Libon Beach , Indalawan Rock Formations , and Indalawan Falls .

How to Get There

From Puerto Princesa City, take a bus or van to Buliluyan Port, Bataraza. One may board a bus or van at Irawan Bus Terminal, or book door-to-door van via local van operators like Pilandok Transport . Travel time is at least five hours.

Before boarding at Buliluyan Port, tourists must register at Bataraza Tourism Sub-Office (blue building). Speedboats depart daily around 7:00 am, taking an hour to reach Balabac, while outrigger boats leave around 10:00 am daily, and take two to three hours to reach the island.

M/B JS Sea Express (Tel. +63 9187545753) has a new 600-hp twin-engine speedboat (₱700) that accommodates up to 41 persons, traveling Buliluyan-Bancalaan-Balabac. They depart Balabac for Buliluyan at 5:30 am daily, and offer connecting van transfers back to Puerto Princesa that you can book in advance.

Where to Stay

Only basic guesthouses can be found in Balabac town. I recommend staying at Batalla’s Lodging House (Tel. +63 9085505823) located behind Balabac Central School, and just a short walk away from the Municipal Tourism Office, where tourists can seek assistance. Accommodation starts at ₱1,500 for their spacious double air-conditioned rooms.

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9 Awesome Things to do in Balabac (Travel Guide And Balabac Itinerary)

By: Author Ruben Arribas

Posted on Published: May 2, 2022  - Last updated: October 24, 2023

Categories Philippines

Last updated on October 24th, 2023 at 08:26 pm

Balabac is located at  South of Palawan  with  40 000 population . Balabac is a paradise to discover in Palawan. There are 31 islands where you will enjoy amazing island hopping. In this blog post will tell you all the things to do in Balabac, how to get there, prices schedule in our Balabac travel guide.

If you are heading to Balabac from Puerto Princesa the whole trip will take you around 5 days with the possibility of enjoying 3 days island hopping in Palawan. Prices for this trip you can find around  6000-8000 PHP  per person joining a tour in Balabac (expect little bit more for a private tour)  plus transportation to get there.

Read here things to do in Puerto Princesa  and  how to get to Balabac !

Table of Contents

WHERE TO STAY IN THE PHILIPPINES

You can get accommodation starting from 800-1000 PHP (less than $20 USD ) for a room in a guesthouse. Can you imagine if you are two of you traveling in the Philippines, it will be $10 USD each.

Click here to book your accommodations before your trip with  Booking  and  Agoda !

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

You can read  Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance . You can get for  $135 USD  your  Heymondo   Travel Insurance  with Heymondo discount code  valid for 90 days. Read our full  Heymondo Travel Insurance Review

You can get  Safetywing Travel Insurance  for Digital Nomads valid for 28 days  Safetywing for $50 USD per month with kids until 10 years old included

BALABAC TRAVEL GUIDE – HOW TO GET TO BALABAC

How to get to balabac from puerto princesa.

You can get to Balabac from Puerto Princesa to Rio Tuba by passenger boat. And also you can get to Balabac from Buliluyan port.

HOW TO GET TO RIO TUBA FROM PUERTO PRINCESA

If you are going to Rio Tuba from Puerto Princesa by van will take 4-5 hours depending on the traffic. Prices are around  450-500 PHP  depending on the driver. The schedule of the vans from Puerto Princesa to Rio Tuba is around 5 am to 6 pm. It’s not fixed schedule!

Once in Rio Tuba you have to get the passenger boat going to Balabac. It will take around 4 hours to get to Balabac. It costs  350-400 PHP . The boat leaves around 11 am. But you will have to book secure your seat early morning to make sure you have space on it. You have to buy your tickets from boat crew in Marabahay Pier.

This way you can do easy on your own. Once in Balabac you will decide if you join to a tour or get a private boat. When you are back to Rio Tuba you have to do the same way from Balabac town to Rio Tuba and get a van to Puerto Princesa.

Based in our experience last van is leaving around 7 pm from Rio Tuba to Puerto Princesa. We got to Rio Tuba around 8 pm and there were no regular vans anymore. They offered to us  4000 PHP  for going direct to Puerto Princesa by van instead  450 PHP  each that we paid regular service.

You have two options you can stay overnight in Rio Tuba and vans start leaving as early at 3 am from Rio Tuba to Puerto Princesa. The trip lasts 4 hours. You can also stay in the restaurant is 24 hours. In the restaurant there is wifi and data connection if you plan to connect online after not having connection for a few days in Balabac. We decided to stay in the restaurant since we wanted to catch up with work.

HOW TO GET TO BULILUYAN PORT FROM PUERTO PRINCESA

If you want to get to Buliluyan port from Puerto Princesa. You have to organize with a tour operator as we did. They will organize the transfer of the vans going from Puerto Princesa and coming back.

We organized with Ate Lorna (we saw good recommendations in other blogs but it wasn’t our case). Everything was bad organized so I can’t recommend this option. Next time we will do from Rio Tuba on our own and we will hire a boatman in Balabac.

The problem going to Buliluyan port for us it took so long the waiting time. From Buliluyan port you start your island hopping. And after one hour sailing you start visiting amazing islands in Balabac. It was cheap price but we didn’t visit as much islands as the initial plan was supposed.

We paid  6000 PHP  per adult for 3 days Island hopping, food and accommodation included. Han our little one paid  2000 PHP  all included too. Prices were affordable and it was the cheapest that we found but we got also  7000 PHP  with other operator called Reinaldo.

IS IT SAFE FOR FOREIGNERS TO VISIT BALABAC ITINERARY?

I read before the trip that Balabac wasn’t totally safe for foreigners. As a foreigner I felt myself very safe in our Balabac itinerary. I met foreigners that they visited Balabac and all of them they felt very safe too.

Most of the foreigner countries recommend not to travel to South Palawan because is too risky due to terrorist attack or pirates. Based on my experience if you organize your trip with a tour operator they will guide you around and you will have no problems.  

Based in my experience is safe visiting Balabac for foreigners. I didn’t see any problem and everything was working as other tourist destinations in the Philippines. Balabac isn’t so develop so don’t expect so much comfort when visiting Balabac. Accommodation in the islands are basic, you will not find phone signal and internet connection. But going island hopping in Balabac will be an amazing experience.

ATM’S IN BALABAC

There is no ATM in Balabac! We recommend you to bring cash and withdraw in Puerto Princesa. On the way to Rio Tuba there are places where you can withdraw money. You can ask the van driver to stop in Nara and Brooke’s point. You will find ATM and also in Rio Tuba.

Our advice it’s don’t trust so much this option. In our case we couldn’t withdraw in Nara and Brooke’s point since the ATM wasn’t working when we pass by with the van. It’s much better that you withdraw enough money in Puerto Princesa for your trip in Balabac. So you don’t have to be worried about cash. You just have to enjoy the island life in Balabac. Make sure that you bring extra cash for your trip.

DAILY ITINERARY BUDGET TRAVEL IN BALABAC

It’s hard to say about a Balabac itinerary daily budget travel since prices are changing and depending of the season. It depends if you are joining to a tour or getting a private boat. But we will try to give as much information as we can as we always do here. Especially about travel on a budget!

When we were preparing the trip we made calls trying to match budget and schedule a tour operator in Balabac. And most of them were offering similar prices and tours. Expect to pay for 3 days 2 nights around  6000-10000 PHP  per adult. It’s weird but you can try to bargain the price since there is so much difference. Per kid expect to pay around  2000-5000 PHP  based in our experience.

You can try to adjust the price before choosing a tour operator if this your choice. These prices are all included: food, water, entrance fees and accommodation. They will pick you up in Buliluyan port and drive back to the same place. There is no so much variety about food in Balabac so contact to your tour operator if you have any food restrictions.

You will have to arrange on your own the transportation going to Balabac or with the tour company the prices of the van going to Balabac. Expect to pay  600 PHP  per person as we did from Puerto Princesa to Buliluyan Port. Make sure you read the schedule above to make sure you don’t have to wait overnight in Rio Tuba. Or being ready with the information if you decide to do wait for a few hours.

To go to Rio Tuba the price is  400-450 PHP . If you want contacts or tour operators for your trip around Balabac email us at  [email protected]  or just reply in the comments below and we will provide you the information.

If you are planning a private tour for adult we got  2500 PHP  each adult per day and kids were joining for free. It was only included the island hopping. No entrance fees, food, accommodation and water. If you can travel 4 of you as we plan to do it in the future.

You can get a boat in Balabac around  5000-8000 PHP  per day depending how many of you and the season low or peak season. These prices are only for renting the boat per day. And you will have to arrange your food, water and accommodation.

ENTRANCE FEES IN BALABAC

Entrance fees to the islands are between  50-150 PHP  most of them. Except Onuk Island which goes from  1500 PHP  spending the day to  2500 PHP  if you stay overnight. Prices will be cheaper if you are traveling in a group or if you can join 3-4 people you will get better deals that if you do alone. At the time that we visited Balabac Onuk Island was closed for a few months for cleaning and maintenance.

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BEST TIME TO VISIT BALABAC

Most of the people are visiting during the dry season from November to April. The best time to visit Balabac is from April to May. We visited on June and the weather was windy and it rained one day out of three that we spent in Balabac. The best thing of going on June that we were alone visiting the islands and sandbanks. We saw maximum two boats in the same island at this time.

Click here to know more about the weather in Balabac !

ELECTRICITY AND INTERNET CONNECTION IN BALABAC

You will not find internet connection in Balabac. Well at one point you can find an intermittent signal, we didn’t find it. Also similar with phone companies like Smart and Globe we couldn’t find phone signal in Balabac.

In Buliluyan port Smart was getting signal for messages and calls but not for internet connection. In Rio Tuba you can get wifi, phone signal with Smart and Globe. Also you can get data connection with no problem in the town of Rio Tuba.

Once you are in the islands around Balabac just enjoy and forget about phone signal and internet connection. You will find electricity to charge your devices. In our case until 10 pm you were able to charge your batteries and devices which was enough time to do it.

Since they provide adapters to connect USB and plugs enough for all the people staying in the accommodation. Apart from this there is almost no electricity just with their own generators in the islands.

Click here if you want to know the best Filipino sim for tourist!

MALARIA IN BALABAC

There were a few cases of Malaria in Balabac. We didn’t hear of any of them directly. We just put mosquito repellent but we didn’t take malaria pills. Just inform yourself in a medical center and make the right decisions before going to Balabac. In our case everything was fine and we didn’t have any health problem in Balabac. Most of the visitors that we met in Balabac didn’t take any malaria pills. 

HOW MANY DAYS YOU SHOULD STAY IN BALABAC

In our opinion  at least 3 days island hopping  is a must in Balabac. It means be ready to spend  5 days from Puerto Princesa to Balabac  and come back to Puerto Princesa.

There are companies that organize tours in Balabac. You can contact them and try to schedule your trip with them. If they pick you up first thing in the morning from Puerto Princesa you can reach Balabac at noon. So you will be able to enjoy your first day of island hopping in Balabac. 

After the island hopping the first day you will be able to stop 2-3 places before watching the sunset and sleep in your first accommodation. The accommodation in Balabac is limited and basic. If you get a room it will be so small. If there is no enough rooms you will sleep in a tent.

The second day you will start with breakfast and island hopping around Balabac 3-4 islands. You can include Onuk island which allows stay overnight. Prices are expensive  2500 PHP  per person overnight. We couldn’t visit Onuk since it was closed for 3 months for cleaning the island at that time.

Similar like first day after sunset dinner and time to sleep. Electricity is limited but good enough to charge your devices. You will not get phone signal in the whole trip. It happened to us from Buliluyan Port where you can get Smart signal weak for calls and not even getting data for internet.

The third day you can do island hopping and going back to Buliluyan port around 3 pm. If you coordinate properly with your tour operator you will be able to reach Rio Tuba by van. And from there get the last van going to Puerto Princesa around 5-6 pm. We didn’t manage to get a van on time to Rio Tuba on time and we stayed overnight in Rio Tuba.

For us 3 days of island hopping in Balabac is the minimum that you should do. But we recommend you if you can extend to 4-5 days since there are many islands to visit and it takes long to reach them. We decided 3 days was fine since we didn’t want to stay longer without internet connection.

WHAT TO BRING TO BALABAC

Sunblock make sure you protect and avoid to burn your skin.

Bring  extra water  in our case they were providing just a small water per meal. So better if you bring a couple of them.

Mosquito Repellent  yeah! After the sunset make sure you put mosquito repellent and you cover yourself with pants and long sleeves to avoid them.

Power-banks to charge your phones and devices. You can use them to take pictures, watching movies or listening to the music since there is always free time after the island hopping.

Snacks  since you will almost not find them in the islands.

Snorkeling mask  is a must in Balabac. For our surprise our tour operator didn’t provide snorkeling mask for renting. Luckily we are always ready with our own and we didn’t have this concern.

Dry Bag  to protect your devices and belongings.

Raincoat  just in case it rains.

Long pants and long sleeves  for protection against the mosquitos.

All your  travel gear  from underwater cameras, drone or whatever you have it. Balabac is amazing and you will love to capture these moments.

THINGS TO DO IN BALABAC ISLAND

1. island hopping in balabac.

Obviously the main activity is island hopping in Balabac. It will be a non stop island hopping. We did for 3 days and we slept 2 nights in the same island.

PATAWAN BEACH

It was our first stop in the island hopping in Balabac is one hour far from Buliluyan port and one of the most beautiful place in Balabac. Sorry guys but it was windy and we couldn’t fly the drone to show you pictures from above.

CANDARAMAN SANDBAR AND ISLAND / STARFISH ISLAND

It was great for snorkeling and the water was so clear. Unfortunately at sunset time the sand bar was in high tide. But the water was so transparent and there were many star fishes.

BARAGI ISLAND

It was our first stop of the second day and it was the rainy day. In the pictures we can see how clear was the water. There is a sand bar but at that time it was a swimming pool. Nice pictures for taking pictures with the small house and the sand bar.

SIBARING BEACH

In Bugsuk Island we stop for lunch and the beach is nice but unluckily the weather was still rainy that morning. Very close from the previous sand bar.

MANSALANGAN SAND BAR

At this time in Mansalangan was low tide and we could walk around and watch the star fishes. It was still windy so we couldn’t manage to fly the drone. Our last stop of the day.

KANIBUNGAN BEACH

Kanibungan Beach was one of our favorite places to visit and enjoy swimming, flying the drone and taking pictures. Blue water and transparent. Great for snorkeling, calm and relax island.

MARABON TOWN

We stopped in Marabaon town and you can see the mix of the people Malaysian and Filipino. The stores sell Malaysian products like the mineral water, chocolates and even clothes. We saw also a huge problem since in Marabon town was full of trash.

TANGKAHAN ISLAND

Our last stop in Balabac was Tangkahan Island so beautiful with perfect weather was a perfect place to say goodbye. Great drone pictures, clear water for snorkeling and quiet place to stay.

2. SNORKELING

You have to try snorkeling in Balabac since the water is so clear and you will see fishes and plenty of star fishes. Our little one Han enjoyed a lot doing snorkeling just around the seashore you can see many of them.

We recommend you to bring your own snorkeling gear as we always do. In this case in our Island hopping in Balabac the tour operator wasn’t provided snorkeling. So we used ours and we didn’t have a problem on this.

If you aren’t bringing snorkeling gear make sure that the tour operator is providing for renting or as part of your package. You can’t miss snorkeling in Balabac Island.

3. FLYING THE DRONE

We went there on June and it was windy and rainy sometimes. So we couldn’t fly the drone as much we would like to do it. If you are planning to fly the drone in Balabac. The best time to visit Balabac and flying the drone are the months of April and May when it’s not rainy and the wind is calm.

4. WALKING AROUND THE SANDBARS

It was amazing to visit sandbars in Balabac they were huge and surrounded of clear water everywhere. We couldn’t fly the drone in all of them but we had so much fun walking, swimming and taking pictures around. It’s so beautiful the water clear and the white sand. Going to the sandbars was definitely one of our favorite things to do in Balabac.

5. WATCH STARFISHES

Close to the sandbar there is a star fish island where you can see many star fishes around. There are plenty of them in the clear water. You can even see them walking around without snorkeling.

6. WATCHING MAGICAL SUNSETS

We were staying in Island and the sunsets were so magical. Blue and clear water combining with orange and pink colors was amazing. Our place for staying was Kandaraman Island and the sunsets were so colorful and amazing.

Balabac isn’t very touristic. You can’t expect comfort when staying in the islands. You will get a simple and tiny room without electricity. You will have also the possibility to pitch the tent. They will offer for you the options depending on availability that they have.

MORE THINGS TO DO IN BALABAC

8. shopping malaysian products.

An interesting thing to know in Balabac. Since Balabac is close to Malaysian Borneo and cargo ships stop in Balabac. You will find many products as mineral water, chocolates, soups coming from Malaysia. As we mentioned before part of the population in Balabac are muslim and part are catholic.

9. VISIT ONUK ISLAND

When we were in Balabac Onuk Island was closed because they were cleaning. Everyone who visited there liked it. Prices are expensive and you pay  1500 PHP  for day tour visiting Onuk Island and  2500 PHP  if you stay overnight. Expect to pay more once they open Onuk Island again based in the boatmen.

This is our Balabac travel guide with all the things to do in Balabac. Hope you like it and email us if you have questions going to visit Balabac island. Share with your friends and family and hope they can visit soon this paradise.

GO BACK AGAIN TO BALABAC ITINERARY?

Yes for sure! It’s in our mind to go back in a few months and plan the things better. At least making sure that if we can’t do longer days of island hopping like waking up early until sunset or having an extra day for island hopping instead 3 days.

It’s not crowded, I would say 90-95 % of the tourists are locals. Included myself (well considering myself half tourist only ha! Since I have been living in the Philippines for a few years) I saw just 5 foreigners in Balabac during our island hopping and staying in the islands.

I think Balabac will increase the visit of tourists every year. And we have to be careful with the islands and try to keep in the same way that we find them. Take care of the trash, be conscious about this. If you can collect trash when you see in the beach it will take you a few minutes to keep it clean and bring back to the boat.

Hope that we replied all your questions in our Balabac travel guide and we didn’t forget anything in our favorite things to do in Balabac. Let us know in the comments below and feel free to share this psot with your family and friends going to Balabac.

Feel free to use our links with discounts for  Booking, Agoda, Airbnb and Klook . Using our links you will help us to continue with the maintenance of the website and it will not cost you anything. Thanks for the love guys 

Happy Travels!

About the Author : Ruben , co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues to share his travel experiences alongside his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.

Balabac Island Hopping

A guide to the most beautiful islands in balabac.

Palawan is a top Philippine tourist destination due to its stunning beaches, clear waters, and tropical weather. However, selecting the best spots to visit can be daunting for first-timers. Popular hotspots like El Nido, Coron and Port Barton tend to get crowded. If you prefer a more secluded destination, Balabac municipality offers a variety of fantastic islands for some peace and quiet.

SOUTHERN PALAWAN

Destinations.

Balabac Island Hopping | 3 Days

Come to palawan, patongong island.

Patongong Island, also known as Patunggong Island, is a serene paradise, with its white sand beach completely surrounding the island. The crystal-clear turquoise waters offer the opportunity to explore a diverse range of marine life. The peaceful and tranquil beach is perfect for relaxing in the cottages or under the shade of the coconut trees, and the stunning backdrop is ideal for capturing the perfect selfie.

Located just an hour away by bangka boat from Buliluyan Port in Brookes Point, Patongong Island is easily accessible for visitors seeking a peaceful getaway.

Tangkahan Island

Tangkahan Island, just a 30-minute boat ride away from Patongong Island, boasts a longer shoreline and larger size. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters , snorkel among the vibrant marine life, or take a leisurely stroll along the pristine beach and immerse yourself in the island’s unspoiled beauty.

Patawan Island

Patawan Island is a unique destination in Balabac, with its white sand beach that appears pinkish due to fragments of red corals. The water is crystal clear and the scenery is breathtaking. Shaped like a dolphin, this tiny island is only a 30-minute boat ride away from Patongong Island.

While swimming and snorkeling around Patawan Island, you can observe colorful marine life and even spot sea snakes. Although attacks on people are rare, it’s a daring experience for adventurous tourists.

Punta Sebaring

Punta Sebaring on Bugsuk Island is an excellent base for exploring nearby islands . The resort, made entirely of locally sourced materials such as wood, bamboo, and nipa palms, can accommodate up to 8 people. It’s also an excellent place to enjoy a grilled seafood lunch.

Punta Sebaring’s unique charm lies in its pristine white sand, which is the whitest among all of Palawan’s beaches. It’s perfect for a day spent lounging in the sun while gazing at the turquoise waters.

Punta Sebaring’s sandbar is the third-longest in the Philippines and is a must-visit destination.

Mansalangan Sandbar

The Balabac Strait is famous for its shallow waters and sandbars, and some of the most picturesque sandbars in the Philippines can be found here. One of these is the Mansalangan Sandbar in Canabungan Island, which offers a stunning backdrop for your Instagram photos .

However, keep in mind that the sandbar can only be visited during low tide, so plan accordingly to ensure you can fully enjoy this breathtaking spot.

Candaraman Island

Candaraman Island is a stunning destination boasting lush forests and pristine crystal-clear waters . Its long line of white powdery shore, dotted with hundreds of coconut trees, connects to a spectacular stretch of sandbar that is exposed during low tides. Here, you can witness colorful starfish and other marine creatures.

The shallow waters surrounding Candaraman Island are like a tranquil swimming pool.

Canibungan Island

Canibungan Island has a stunning beach lined with pine trees and white sand. The shallow waters surrounding the island are home to seagrass beds, providing a beautiful contrast of colors . The rich reef near the coastline is also home to colorful fish of varying sizes and corals.

Comiaran Island – Pink Island

Comiaran Island, also known as “Pink Island,” is a virgin island with pink sand due to a fine mix of crushed red and white corals. Despite the 2-hour boat ride, the breathtaking views are worth it. At sunset, the beach becomes a nesting site for endangered marine turtles, and lucky visitors may see baby turtles dashing for the ocean.

Braggy Island

Braggy Island, located in the barangay of Bugsuk Island, is known for its beautiful mangroves and crystal-clear waters. However, it’s also notorious for being a habitat of large saltwater crocodiles .

Onuk Island

Although each island in Balabac has its unique appeal, Onuk Island has distinct advantages over the others.

This privately owned island boasts unbelievably crystal clear waters and offers comfortable resort accommodation options in Balabac.

Onuk Island gained recent popularity after a photo by Filipino photographer George Tapan won an award in National Geographic. The photo highlighted a beautiful rainbow after the rain, showcasing the island’s natural beauty.

• Balabac Info
• Private Tour with Van
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• Destinations

Balabac Palawan Island Life Experience

Balabac palawan island life experince.

Others let you sleep in a more comfortable lodge in the mainland town of Balabac Palawan, while we let you experience our white beach as your home each night. How exciting, right?

Aside from exploring the highlights of Balabac Palawan such as Onok Island, Mansalangan Sandbar, Patawan Island and Punta Sebaring, our Island Life Experience will let you:

• Wake up each morning from your tent to catch the sunrise before breakfast.
• Be welcomed home by our beach's white powdery sand after a day of exploring islands and sandbars.
• have a better connection to what matters more... YOUR SOUL! While having no Wifi nor data
• Learn that with nature, you can live with the bare minimum and still be happy and content.
• Fall asleep at night with the therapeutic sound of the waves.

Although please note that this is for ADVENTURE-LOVERS only, and not for tourists looking for a perfect and comfortable getaway. Read more on the details of our package on the button below.

BALABAC PALAWAN GROUP TOUR

This is a Balabac Palawan Tour where we pool you with other travelers on fixed schedules.

• For solo, couple and small group travelers
• Meet new travel friends
• Cheaper than private tours
• 4D3N Expedition to the best places in Balabac
• Experienced tour guide included in the package
• Choose from our list of scheduled tours

PRIVATE TOUR with Van Transfers

This is a Balabac Palawan Tour exclusive for your family and friends.

• For couples, families or group of friends
• Enjoy a private boat and enjoy your own time
• Choose your preferred travel dates
• Customize your itinerary when possible
• Includes roundtrip van transfers PPS-Buliluyan

Follow @balabacpalawan on Instagram to stay updated!

Balabacpalawan.

⭐ Intimate Balabac Palawan Tour with powder white beach campsite by The Wanderwalkers 📨 DM NOW to book your Balabac Tour in Palawan Philippines

2024 DOT-Accredited Tour Operators in Balabac

• Post author: Team TPG
• Post category: Balabac
• Post comments: 0 Comments
• Post last modified: February 24, 2024

This is an updated list of Department of Tourism (DOT) Accredited tour operators in Balabac, Palawan.

Beyond the familiar shores of Palawan lies Balabac, a hidden gem whispering secrets to adventurous souls. Nestled in the often-overlooked southern embrace of the island, these remote islands offer a treasure trove of natural beauty waiting to be discovered.

Think turquoise waters lapping pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs teeming with life, and lush jungles whispering ancient tales. Balabac’s allure stretches far beyond its breathtaking landscapes. Here, you’ll encounter a slower pace of life, where warm smiles and genuine hospitality paint a tapestry of authentic Filipino charm.

While social media whispers of Balabac’s magic, it remains an untouched haven compared to the bustling tourist hubs of Palawan. But the secret may not last forever. Capture the essence of this untamed paradise before it joins the ranks of El Nido , Coron , and Puerto Princesa .

This is your chance to carve your own adventure, to leave footprints on virgin sands, and to experience the raw beauty of a hidden paradise. Don’t let Balabac slip away – add it to the top of your bucket list and embark on a journey you’ll never forget.

To ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience, remember to book your tours and vacation packages through a DOT-accredited tour operator. These operators adhere to strict safety and service standards, ensuring your island adventure is worry-free and unforgettable.

This list of DOT-Accredited Tour Operators in Balabac, Palawan is updated as of 21 February 2024 provided by the Department of Tourism.

DOT-Accredited Tour Operators in Balabac, Palawan

Book your tours and hotels with Klook and use our promo code: ESCAPEMANILA to get 3% off on tours and activities and 5% off on hotel bookings.

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Step-by-Step Guide: How to go to Balabac Palawan

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If you’re looking for a tropical paradise to explore, Balabac Island Palawan should be at the top of your list.

With its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and diverse marine life, this island is a must-visit destination.

Related Reads :

Best Time to Visit Balabac and Things To Do On Your Trip

Why You Need to See Balabac, Palawan At Least Once In Your Life

But before you pack your bags, make sure you follow this step-by-step guide on how to go to Balabac Palawan to ensure a hassle-free travel experience and create unforgettable memories.

Check out our experience and a quick overview of a Balabac Tour .

Plan Your Itinerary and Budget.

I best recommend a one-day stay at Puerto Princesa before going to Balabac Island since most trips going to the port (for the boat/tours that will take you to Balabac) take 5-6 hours and are best traveled early in the morning.

Reminder: Have enough cash before traveling to Balabac since there are no atms at Balabac island and surrounding islets.

Planning Your Itinerary

• Research about Puerto Princesa and or the place you’re coming from before the Balabac Tour. Start by researching Puerto Princesa and its surrounding areas to familiarize yourself on any attractions or activities that you might want to do before going on the boat tour the next day. Look for information on popular tourist spots, off-the-beaten-path locations, and cultural experiences. There are a number of things you can do around Puerto Princesa like having a food trip, find goods to take home etc.,
• Determine your priorities. Allocate time for travel and relaxation. List your must-see attractions and must-do activities, then prioritize them based on your interests and time constraints. Be realistic about the amount of time you can spend exploring each day and factor in time for meals and relaxation. This will help you allocate your time wisely and ensure that you don’t miss out on any highlights.
• Consider guided tours or packages. Research tour operators and travel agencies that offer guided tours or packages for Balabac Island. As for us we booked a tour right after we booked our flight. Ideally we booked months ahead since we really wanted to have a room from Kamp Malaya (if no rooms, there are tents). It would be best to be clear about your accommodation, meals and other inclusions from your booked tour so you won’t have any frustrations or false expectations.
• Plan for contingencies and emergencies Research and prepare medications that you might need for any allergies you have or just fully prepare a little emergency kit for your adventure.

Budgeting for Your Trip

• Transportation. Calculate the costs of transportation to and from Balabac Island, including flights, buses, vans, boats, and local transportation in case you plan to DIY. As I remember Balabac DIY tour is not advised. As of 2023, more tour operators have been granted business permits, so best check and get deals from them or you can check out other tours from Klook. I personally recommend getting a tour operator previously booked by other people so that you won’t have to worry about the tedious transportation specifics on how to go to Balabac Palawan.
• Accommodations Usually, tours have their own recommended accommodation. Either accommodations at Port Buliluyan, at actual Balabac Island, or on the other islets.
• Activities and tours If you plan to participate in guided tours or packages, consider their all-inclusive prices.
• Food and beverages Most tours includes food in their packages but just in case, best check with them and/or then so plan your meal if it’s not included.
• Miscellaneous expenses Set aside a portion of your budget for miscellaneous expenses, such as souvenirs, tips, and unexpected costs. It’s always better to have extra money available in case of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances.

By carefully planning your itinerary and budget, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable adventure to Balabac Island Palawan. With a clear idea of your priorities and expenses, you can focus on enjoying your trip and creating lasting memories.

Gist: Research the costs of transportation, accommodations, and tours to ensure that you have enough funds for your trip. It’s also a good idea to have some extra cash on hand for unexpected expenses. Once you have a clear idea of your itinerary and budget, you can start booking your travel arrangements.

The best way to experience Balabac is through guided tours, which provide transportation, accommodation, and access to the most beautiful spots.

As for our experience last time, we can say that Klook’s deals below are a total steal if you plan to just have a day tour.

You can also book tours and accommodations through Balabac’s licensed operators if you want to experience the overnight experience in Sicsican Island.

Book Your Flights and Accommodations.

The first step on how to go to Balabac Palawan is to book your flights and accommodations. The nearest airport to Balabac Island is the Puerto Princesa International Airport. From there, you can take a van or bus to Rio Tuba, then jump on another transpo to Port Buliluyan which is the jump-off point to Balabac Island. You can also hire a private van or car for a more comfortable and convenient travel experience if you don’t have it included in your Balabac tour. As for accommodations, I find it best to find them at Puerto Princesa then jsut take the transpo to Port Buliluyan. For accommodations in Balabac, as I mentioned before best to book months before with the tour operators (with permit) as they have contacts on where you can stay during your planned dates in Balabac.

Book a Tour or Island Hopping Adventure.

To make the most of your stay in Balabac Island, consider booking a tour or island hopping adventure. These tours usually include transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and entrance fees to the different attractions.

You can also customize your tour based on your interests and preferences. Check out these islands and tourist spots when you’re on a Balabac Island Tour.

Get to Puerto Princesa City.

The next step and most important step on how to go to Balabac Palawan is to get to Puerto Princesa City.

You can fly directly to Puerto Princesa International Airport from major cities in the Philippines such as Manila, Cebu, and Davao.

There are also international flights that can take you to Palawan but you best check with your airlines. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a tricycle or taxi to your hotel or accommodation in the city center, or have it arranged from your accommodation. From there, communicate to your book operator for the Balabac tour.

Travel to Buliluyan Port.

After arriving in Puerto Princesa City, the next step is to travel to Port Buliluyan. Most Balabac tour operators already have prearranged transportation so best ask them about it. Well if not then you can go ask the locals about where the transportation going to Buliluyan is.

While you can drive, I suggest that you just take local transportation or have the one by your tour operator since it’s about 6 hours away without a sure parking space for your vehicle for days. Especially as you might be going to stay on the islands themselves. The map below shows the path from Puerto Princesa to Buliluyan Port

The travel time is approximately 6-7 hours from Puerto Princesa, so it’s best to leave early in the morning. Once you arrive at Buliluyan Port, you’ll then take a boat to Balabac Island. Boat schedules may vary, so it’s best to check with your accommodation or tour operator for the latest information. The boat ride can take up to 4 hours, but the stunning views of the sea and islands make it worth the journey. Typically, if you booked a Balabac tour, you only need to log your names in the small office there before heading to the assigned boat for your tour. I do recommend that you be on something that you can already swim with and be on your dry bags, hats and glasses already before they put your bags under the boat

Take a Boat to Balabac Island.

The best part of learning how to go to Balabac Palawan is actually this part where you take the boat! But that only happens once you arrive at Port Buliluyan, the next step is to take a boat to Balabac Island. There are several boats available, but it’s best to check with your tour operator for the latest information on schedules and prices. The boat ride to the different islands can take hours, but the stunning views of the sea and islands make it worth the journey. Make sure to bring enough food and water for the trip, as not all islands has stores. Also, don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.

Explore the Islands

Now that you have arrived at Balabac Island, it’s time to explore its natural beauty. Some of the must-visit spots on the island include:

• Onuk Island – A privately-owned island with crystal-clear waters, Onuk Island is perfect for snorkeling, diving, and swimming with sea turtles. Make sure to secure permission and pay the entrance fee before visiting the island.
• Punta Sebaring/Bugsuk Island – A long pristine white sand beach that stretches for kilometers, Punta Sebaring is an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. It’s also home to a small fishing village, where you can interact with the locals and learn more about their culture.
• Candaraman Island – Known for its beautiful sandbar, Candaraman Island is a great place for beachcombing, swimming, and taking Instagram-worthy photos with lots of starfishes! Plus it has a sandbar near it. And amazingly, the island has its private airstrip! Way to own an island, right?
• Melville Lighthouse – Built during the American colonial period, the Melville Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the Sulu Sea.

Ensure You Have Proper Documentation and Follow Safety Guidelines.

Before traveling to Balabac Island, make sure you have the necessary documents such as a valid passport, travel insurance, and any required visas. Additionally, follow safety guidelines provided by local authorities and your tour operator to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

• Pack Light and Bring Essential Items. Packing light is essential when traveling to Balabac Island, as you will need to carry your luggage during boat transfers. Make sure to bring essential items such as lightweight clothing, a swimsuit, a reusable water bottle, a waterproof bag, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first aid kit.
• Respect the Environment and Local Culture. When visiting Balabac Island, remember to respect the environment by minimizing your use of single-use plastics and disposing of waste properly. Also, be mindful of the local culture by dressing modestly, asking permission before taking photos of people or private property, and learning a few basic phrases in the local language. Showing respect for the environment and local customs will enhance your travel experience and leave a positive impact on the communities you visit.
• Stay Connected and Informed. While the internet connection on Balabac Island may not be as reliable as in urban areas, it’s still important to stay connected and informed.
• Check for updates on weather conditions, boat schedules, and any potential safety concerns. It’s also a good idea to inform your friends or family members about your travel plans and keep them updated on your whereabouts.

Prepare for Your Departure.

As every other trip aside from learning about how to go to Balabac Palawan, you also need to learn how to get back from it. So as your trip to Balabac Island comes to an end, ensure that you have all your belongings packed and ready for departure.

Double-check your travel itinerary, including boat schedules and transportation arrangements to Puerto Princesa City. Leave your accommodation in a clean and tidy state as a courtesy to the hosts.

Travel Back to Puerto Princesa City.

When it’s time to leave Balabac Island, take a boat back to Buliluyan Port. From there, catch a van or bus to Puerto Princesa City. Remember that the journey can take up to 6-7 hours, so be prepared with snacks, water, and entertainment for the trip.

Explore Puerto Princesa City or Head Home. Once you’re back in Puerto Princesa City, you can choose to explore the city’s attractions, such as the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, Honda Bay, and Baker’s Hill, or head straight to the airport for your flight home. Make sure to give yourself enough time to reach the airport and check in for your flight.

Reflect on Your Trip and Share Your Experience. After returning home from your Balabac Island adventure, take some time to reflect on your experiences and memories. Share your stories and photos with friends and family or on social media, inspiring others to visit this beautiful and off-the-beaten-path destination. By sharing your experiences, you’ll not only preserve your memories but also contribute to the growth of sustainable tourism in Balabac Island Palawan.

SUMMARY: How to Go to Balabac Palawan

• Book flight to Puerto Princesa
• Book a tour operator with permit for Balabac Tour
• Go to Puerto Princesa
• Take the transportation going to Buliluyan Port
• Get on a boat for the Balabac Tour

Before embarking on your journey to Balabac Island Palawan, it’s important to plan your itinerary and budget. Decide how many days you want to spend on the island and what activities you want to do.

By following this comprehensive step-by-step guide, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable trip to Balabac Island Palawan. Personally, I think the best way other than googling “how to go to Balabac Palawan” is actually booking legitimate tour operators that previous travelers have booked with. From planning your itinerary and budget to exploring the island’s natural wonders, you’ll have a hassle-free travel experience and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Louee Gonzales

Louee is Lasang Uulit’s SEO wizard and content creator with a psychology background. She is just one of the food bloggers based in the Philippines, with a passion for sharing the best of the local cuisine. Passionate about unearthing culinary treasures, she crafts mouthwatering stories, explores quirky recipes, and immerses herself in local food culture.