PALAWAN: Balabac Island Hopping with Full board Meals

Balabac Island Hopping with Full Board Meals in Palawan: A Genuine Adventure for Low-Key Travelers

Traveling to Palawan often conjures images of luxury resorts and polished beaches, but if you’re after something more raw and authentic, the Balabac Island Hopping tour delivers exactly that. This trip promises untouched islands, vibrant marine life, and genuine cultural encounters—perfect for those who value natural beauty over comfort.

What really caught our eye are the amazing snorkel spots, the chance to see giant clams up close, and the stargazing opportunities on clear nights. We also appreciate the full board meal inclusion, which simplifies planning during the trip. That said, the long 5-7 hour travel time from Puerto Princesa could be a hurdle for some, especially if you’re prone to motion sickness or dislike long road trips.

This experience is best suited for laid-back, adventure-loving travelers who are fine with rustic conditions and don’t mind sharing basic accommodations. If you’re seeking luxury or meticulously organized logistics, this might not be your ideal choice. However, if you crave authenticity, pristine landscapes, and meaningful encounters with nature and local culture, this tour could be a highlight of your Palawan journey.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: No luxury hotels or fancy restaurants—focused on raw island beauty and local flavor.
• Long Travel Days: Expect a 5-7 hour land journey from Puerto Princesa, so prepare for a scenic but potentially tiring trip.
• Unspoiled Beaches & Marine Life: Enjoy untouched shores, colorful reefs, and fascinating marine creatures like giant clams and sea turtles.
• Guided Island Hopping: Led by knowledgeable guides, the trips include visits to top spots like Onok Island, Patawan Island, and Candaraman Island.
• Shared Rustic Accommodations: One night in a tent, two nights in basic air-conditioned rooms—share space with others.
• No Frills, Pure Nature: Ideal for travelers who want a quiet, low-key adventure without luxury distractions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Balabac Island Hopping Tour

The Journey Begins: From Puerto Princesa to Balabac

The first thing to note is that this tour involves a significant travel time—5 to 7 hours from Puerto Princesa to Buliluyan**. Though long, this journey offers a glimpse into the rural, less touristy side of Palawan, with scenic views and a chance to anticipate the islands’ untouched allure. Be prepared for a comfortable van transfer, but do pack snacks and patience—long drives are part of the adventure here.

First Impressions: Island Hopping in Balabac

Once on the islands, the day kicks off with guided excursions aboard a licensed outrigger boat. The boat ride itself isn’t just transportation—it’s part of the experience, offering a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and keep an eye out for dolphins or seabirds. The guides are described as highly skilled and helpful, often adding insights about the local environment and marine life.

Onok Island: The Star of the Tour

Onok Island is often highlighted as the star attraction. It features sparkling waters, extensive wooden walkways, and powdery white sands perfect for lounging or taking photos. Here, you’ll probably spend time snorkeling or swimming with sea turtles in the shallow waters, which are described as surreal by past travelers.

One reviewer noted that the “islands and beaches were very beautiful,” emphasizing the pristine quality of the scenery. However, it’s worth mentioning that weather can significantly affect your experience—rainy days may turn the experience less enjoyable, especially since some reviewers mentioned poor toilet standards and limited facilities.

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Deep Underwater Adventures: Reef Walls & Giant Clams

Onok Sea Wall offers the thrill of observing coral formations, sponges, and tropical fish. The dramatic drop into deep blue creates a striking underwater landscape, enjoyable by both newbie and seasoned snorkelers. The Giant Clam Dive Spot is an absolute must-see for marine enthusiasts, with some clams reaching up to 1.2 meters in size. Encounters here are not just photo opportunities but also educational—an authentic way to appreciate the local marine ecosystem.

The Other Islands: Patawan, Bugsuk, and Candaraman

Patawan Island, with its dolphin-shaped silhouette, offers amazing reefs and vibrant coral beds that often surprise visitors for their beauty. Despite being less known, it rivals the more popular spots in appeal.

Bugsuk Island is perfect for those seeking peace—a calm, untouched beach ideal for relaxing, while Mansalangan Sandbar provides sweeping 360-degree ocean views, perfect for capturing that perfect shot of endless horizon.

Siksikian Island beckons sunbathers with its powdery white sands and tranquil vibe. Candaraman Island attracts photo lovers with its lush greenery and lively marine life—think clownfish, angelfish, and parrotfish—making it perfect for both underwater and landscape photography.

Cultural and Scenic Highlights

If you’re into lighthouse views and sunsets, the Balabac Parula Lighthouse offers panoramic vistas of the strait and nearby islands. The spot is ideal for unwinding at sunset, looking over the peaceful waters, and soaking in the quiet beauty.

Practicalities and Comfort

The tour includes full board meals, which are considered a highlight for many. Expect a set lunch with ocean vistas, and dinners that may be simple but satisfying. The accommodations are basic—one night in a tent (shared with another person), and two nights in air-conditioned rooms with shared bathrooms. Some reviews suggest that conditions can be quite rustic, and toilet standards vary—so come prepared with patience and a sense of adventure.

The Group and Logistics

Given the shared accommodations and group size, this is ideal for easygoing, social travelers who don’t mind sharing space or dealing with some chaos. The tour is not suited for travelers seeking luxury or fuss-free experiences. It’s worth noting that luggage storage in Puerto Princesa might be limited, so pack light and plan accordingly.

The Cost: Value or Overpriced?

At $422 per person, the tour provides a comprehensive package—transfers, meals, guided island hopping, entrance and environmental fees, and equipment like life vests and first aid kits. While this seems a fair deal considering the number of islands and activities, some travelers might find the overall rustic experience and long travel times a factor in assessing value.

What Travelers Say

The feedback is mixed: some describe the islands as “beautiful,” appreciating the expert guides and stunning views. Others mention disorganization, poor facilities, and weather issues as downsides. For example, one reviewer noted “the boats are not adequate,” and rain can make the experience less comfortable, especially given the poor toilet standards.

However, many appreciate the authenticity of the experience and the chance to enjoy unspoiled nature. Past travelers also highlight the helpfulness of the guides and boat crew, which often makes up for the rustic conditions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for adventurous, easygoing travelers who want to experience the real Balabac without the distraction of luxury. It suits those who value natural beauty, marine encounters, and cultural authenticity over comfort and high-end amenities. If you’re okay with rustic accommodations, long travel days, and a bit of chaos, this tour offers a genuine taste of the Philippines’ hidden treasures.

It’s ideal if you’re a thalassophile—someone who loves the ocean—and eager to connect with local communities and explore untouched islands. Keep in mind, though, that this is not suitable for wheelchair users, those over 95, or travelers seeking luxury.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable if I dislike long travel times?
The land transfer from Puerto Princesa to Buliluyan takes about 5-7 hours, so if long drives aren’t your thing, this might be less enjoyable. The scenic journey is part of the adventure, but it’s worth considering your comfort preferences.

Are accommodations comfortable?
The stay includes one night in a tent (shared), and two nights in basic aircon rooms with shared bathrooms. The facilities are quite rustic, so if you prefer high-end comforts, this isn’t the tour for you.

What should I bring?
Pack a change of clothes, your camera, biodegradable sunscreen, flip-flops, cash, biodegradable insect repellent, and hand sanitizer or tissues. Remember, facilities are basic, and you’ll be in remote islands.

Are meals included?
Yes, all lunches and dinners during the trip are covered, along with a lite breakfast on the last day. The meals are simple but set against stunning ocean views, making them a memorable part of the experience.

Can I join this tour if I’m traveling solo?
Absolutely. Solo travelers are automatically booked for single occupancy in tents and rooms, but do note that sharing accommodations is common, and the group size is typically small.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, weather can impact your experience. Rainy days may reduce the enjoyment and comfort, especially regarding boat rides and toilet conditions. Check the forecast before booking.

Final Thoughts

The Balabac Island Hopping tour offers a rare chance to see some of the Philippines’ most pristine and less-visited islands. It’s about connecting with nature in its purest form, with knowledgeable guides and spectacular marine spots as your highlights. While not a luxury experience, it’s packed with authentic, picture-worthy moments and opportunities for quiet reflection or shared adventures.

If you love snorkeling, uncrowded beaches, and the raw beauty of untouched islands, this trip will likely leave you with lasting memories. Just be prepared for rustic conditions, long travel days, and a flexible, low-key attitude. For travelers seeking genuine, off-the-beaten-path experiences, Balabac offers a truly unique escape.

Remember: This tour is best enjoyed if you appreciate simple comforts, are flexible about logistics, and crave the kind of unspoiled scenery that makes every snorkel and beach walk feel special. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, go for it—you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable views and a deep sense of connection to nature.

You can check availability for your dates here: