The Ultimate San Vicente Travel Guide: Plan your trip
San Vicente is a hidden gem of a beach destination that is still under the radar - for now. So, before it becomes too crowded, get your tickets, pack your bags, and revel in the seclusion. Explore the stunning Long Beach in San Vicente, with its golden sand, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear blue waters.
SAN VICENTE
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When to Visit San Vicente
San Vicente can be visited year-round.
High Season
High Season in San Vicente starts in November and runs until May, with the peak season being between December and March. Despite its stunning beauty, San Vicente remains a relatively undiscovered destination in Palawan, which means it never gets too crowded, even during peak season and public holidays.
However, since the number of hotels in San Vicente is limited, it’s advisable to book your accommodations in advance, especially if you plan to travel during Christmas and New Year.
Low Season
San Vicente’s low season starts in June and lasts until October, with August being the wettest month. During this period, heavy rains and occasional storms may occur, making it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities.
Events and Festivals
San Vicente celebrates the Malagnang Festival annually in June, which is the most important event in the town. The festival gets its name from the local dialect word “Malagnang,” which means “mud” and signifies the fertile soil that brought life and prosperity to the early settlers. It’s a vibrant event that features colorful parades, street dancing, and cultural performances. If you’re in San Vicente during this time, make sure to check out the festivities and join in the fun.
Attractions You Should Consider Visiting:
- Long Beach
- German Island
- Boayan Island
- Exotic Island
- Paradise Island
- Papawyan Falls
- Cacnipa Island
Classic San Vicente Tour Options:
Experience the beauty of some of the best islands and snorkeling sites in Port Barton.
Discover the largest island in San Vicente with its secluded white sand beaches, lush forests, and spectacular marine life.
Discovering San Vicente in 4 days
Day 1: Arrival in San Vicente
Upon arrival in San Vicente, take some time to relax and explore the town. You can visit the Long Beach, which is known for its clear waters and picturesque views.
Day 2: Port Barton Island Hopping
Port Barton is a beautiful coastal town located about an hour from San Vicente. On this day, you can experience the best of Port Barton by taking an island hopping tour. You can explore nearby islands such as Exotic Island, Twin Reef, and Maxima Island. You can also snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters to see the vibrant marine life.
Day 3: Boayan Island
Boayan Island is a hidden gem that is located a few hours away from San Vicente. Once you arrive, you can enjoy the beautiful white sand beaches and turquoise waters.
Day 4: Departure from San Vicente
On your last day, you can take some time to relax and do some last-minute souvenir shopping. If you have time, you can visit the San Vicente Mangrove Forest, which is a unique ecosystem that is home to various species of wildlife. After that, you can depart from San Vicente and head to your next destination.
Where to stay:
f you’re planning to visit San Vicente and want to stay overnight, you’ll find that the main options are to travel by land to either Port Barton or the Long Beach area. Both destinations offer a remote, laid-back, and peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Accommodations in both areas are mostly rustic and cater to international travelers and backpackers, with options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to upscale resorts. However, it’s worth noting that electricity and internet connectivity in many spots are still not that reliable, so be prepared for occasional outages.
If you’re looking for a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience, you may want to consider staying in a homestay or guesthouse run by locals. This will give you a chance to interact with the friendly locals and learn more about their culture and way of life.
Holiday Suites Port Barton is a beachfront accommodation situated in the charming coastal town of Port Barton in San Vicente, Palawan, Philippines. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere, Port Barton is a popular destination for travelers seeking a peaceful island getaway.
Holiday Suites Port Barton is considered by many to be the best hotel in the area, offering comfortable and modern amenities for a truly relaxing stay. The friendly staff is always ready to assist guests in any way possible, ensuring a memorable and stress-free experience.
The rooms are equipped with a range of modern amenities, including air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with free toiletries. Some units feature a balcony or terrace that offers stunning views of the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches.
Club Agutaya is currently the best accommodations in San Vicente, situated right on Long Beach, and offering comfortable mid-range rooms. Other options for accommodation include simple guesthouses and pensions.
What to bring along
Are you planning a trip to San Vicente? Don’t forget to pack these beach essentials to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable vacation.
- Swimsuit: Pack one or two depending on how often you plan to swim.
- Shorts and Cotton T-Shirts: A few lightweight, breathable shirts and shorts are perfect for casual daytime wear.
- Flip Flops: Essential for any beach vacation, flip flops are perfect for the sand.
- Beach Bag: essential for carrying all your beach gear.
- Beach Towel: Pack a lightweight, quick-drying beach towel to dry off after a swim or lounge on the sand.
- Beach Pareo: Pareos are versatile and lightweight cover-ups that can be used as a scarf and shawl.
- Sunhat and Sunglasses: Stay protected from the sun's harmful rays with a sunhat and sunglasses.
- Refillable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the day with a refillable water bottle.
- A good book/Kindle: Relax and unwind with a good book or Kindle on the beach.
- Insect Repellent: Keep mosquito away with a good DEET insect repellent, especially during the evening.
- Raincoat: Pack a lightweight raincoat just in case of an unexpected rain shower during your trip.
- Waterproof phone case : to take underwater pictures without damaging the phone.
Good to know
How many days should you spend in San Vicente?
For a well-rounded experience, we recommend spending 3 to 4 days in san Vicente. This will give you enough time to explore the best islands and beaches while getting a real sense of the place.
Port Barton or San Vicente – Which should you choose?
Both Port Barton and San Vicente have their unique charm and appeal, and which one is better for you really depends on your personal preferences and travel style.
Port Barton is a smaller, quieter coastal town with a laid-back vibe and a more secluded feel. It has beautiful white sand beaches, clear waters, and a variety of activities such as island hopping, snorkeling, and diving. Port Barton is also known for its friendly locals and a range of dining options, from simple beachfront eateries to typical local restaurants.
On the other hand, San Vicente is a larger town with a 14.7-kilometer-long white sand beach, known as Long Beach, which is considered one of the longest and most beautiful beaches in the Philippines.
Where to eat
When it comes to dining options in San Vicente, visitors can enjoy a range of delicious local cuisine that reflects the town’s coastal location and tropical surroundings.
Grilled food and refreshing drinks are available at a few establishments along the Long Beach, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy their meals while taking in the beautiful views of the ocean.
For those looking for a more casual dining experience, an open-air food court located near the public market, pier, and tourist office features several stalls serving a variety of local dishes, including grilled specialties, seafood, and Filipino favorites. Visitors can also indulge in a selection of fruit shakes and other refreshing beverages, perfect for staying cool on a hot day.