Port Barton
Discover Port Barton, Palawan’s serene coastal village. Enjoy island hopping, pristine beaches, and a laid-back vibe in this off-the-beaten-path paradise.
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Best Attractions in Taytay
Taytay, Palawan, known as "The Star of the North," was founded in 1623 and served as Palawan's first capital. Its name comes from the native word for bridge, as it was a transportation hub for traders.Though it was held captive by Magellan's crew, it remains one of Palawan's oldest municipalities and boasts a rich cultural history, including an old church located in the Taytay fort. While no longer the capital, it is still a must-visit for travelers seeking untouched nature and cultural experiences.
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taytay, PALAWAN
Must-See Attractions
Fort Santa Isabel
Fort Santa Isabel is a significant historical site situated in Taytay, a municipality in Palawan, Philippines. Originally built in 1667 as a wooden palisade by the Augustinian Recollect Fathers, it was later replaced with a formidable stone fort in 1738, under the leadership of Governor General Fernando Manuel de Bustillo, to protect against the attacks of Sulu Muslim warriors.
Constructed with coral stone blocks and egg white mortar, the quadrangular fort has bastions and garitas on its corners, named after San Toribio, Santa Isabel, San Juan, and San Manuel. The fortress, which is a lasting symbol of a rich historical heritage, is carved out of a massive rock and is home to a small chapel and cannons that remain intact.
The fort has a fascinating story, including a local legend that recounts how during a siege by pirates, the holy patron saint of Taytay, Santa Monica, advised local soldiers to pour boiling water and animal fat on the climbing pirates, making the walls slippery and scalding the raiders, which caused them to surrender. They re-embarked and sailed back to Jolo, never to bother the Taytayanos again.
The National Museum supervises Fort Santa Isabel, which is open daily from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm. Visitors are charged an entrance fee of PHP 80 per person, and it is recommended that they spend about an hour exploring the site. With its rich history and stunning architecture, Fort Santa Isabel is a must-visit attraction in Palawan, Philippines.
taytay, PALAWAN
Best Natural Attractions
Malampaya Sound
Taytay is a quieter destination in northern Palawan, offering a mix of history, beautiful coastline and rich marine life. Less visited than El Nido, it is a good choice for travellers looking to experience a more peaceful side of Palawan.
The surrounding waters are ideal for snorkelling and diving, with coral reefs, tropical fish and sea turtles. One of the highlights is Malampaya Sound, home to the rare and endangered Irrawaddy dolphins. A dolphin-watching trip offers a chance to see these distinctive dolphins in their natural habitat.
Kuyawyaw Falls
Kuyawyaw Falls, also known as Cuyawyaw Falls, is a beautiful natural attraction near Taytay, surrounded by dense tropical forest. The three waterfalls cascade from around 25 metres, creating a peaceful setting away from the more visited areas of Palawan.
The falls are reached by a 45-minute drive from Taytay town, followed by a 30-minute jungle hike. Once there, you can swim in the cool natural pools, enjoy a picnic and take in the surrounding rainforest.
Dana Lake
Danao Lake, also known as Manguao Lake, is the largest freshwater lake in Palawan and a peaceful natural attraction near Taytay. Surrounded by lush forest and rural landscapes, the lake is home to more than 120 bird species, making it particularly interesting for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Just a 15-minute drive from Taytay town, visitors can explore the lake by boat, hike along the nature trails, fish or simply enjoy a picnic by the water. A boat trip costs around PHP 1,500–2,500 per boat and the visit usually takes about two hours.
taytay, PALAWAN
Best Islands & Beaches
Pabellon Islands
The Pabellon Islands are a group of limestone islands that are famous for producing top-quality edible bird’s nests. The islands include the stunning Elephant Island and Castle Island, which both offer breathtaking scenery.
Elephant Island is known for its hidden lagoon inside a cave, as well as its white sandy beaches and dramatic limestone cliffs.
To get to the Pabellon Islands, you can rent a boat from Taytay port, and the journey takes around an hour.
Isla Blanca
Isla Blanca is an exceptional destination for island-hopping in Taytay. This stunning island boasts a vast coral garden and an expansive coral sandbar that is simply breathtaking. Since Taytay is not yet a mainstream tourist destination, you may be lucky to have the entire island to yourself.
The crystal-clear waters surrounding Isla Blanca are home to a variety of corals and marine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. The reef is particularly impressive, with a drop of about 40 meters.
Dinamayan Island
Dinamayan Island is a true gem with its stunning white sand beach and thriving underwater world. A short boat ride from Taytay port, it is privately owned by the same owner of Casa Rosa Pension in Taytay, so arranging your trip to Dinamayan Island through Casa Rosa is easy and convenient.
The island is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and simply relaxing on the beach. The waters around Dinamayan Island are home to a vibrant array of marine life, making it an ideal spot for underwater exploration.
Nabat Island
Nabat Island is a must-visit destination for snorkeling enthusiasts, offering rich coral reefs and a diverse array of tropical fish. The island is also home to caves that are inhabited by Balinsasayaw birds, which build their nests with their own solidified saliva. Edible bird’s nests are one of the most expensive delicacies in the world and are highly prized, particularly in Asia, for their purported health benefits.
The caves and caverns where the birds’ nests are found are strictly guarded to protect the Balinsasayaw nests in the area.
In addition to the stunning marine life, Nabat Island also boasts a beautiful white beach. Note that the beach is only accessible during low tide.
Malutamban Island
Malutamban Island is a true gem in Taytay Bay, perfect for a relaxing picnic on the beach. This unspoiled island is blessed with stunning views of a pristine white sand beach and crystal-clear turquoise waters, making it an ideal spot for taking breathtaking photos and landscape photography.
taytay, PALAWAN
Best Festivals & Events
Pasinggatan Festival
The Pasinggatan Festival is an annual ten-day event in Taytay, Palawan, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region through ethnic dances, songs, and local cuisine. Held from April 25 to May 4, the festival’s name is derived from the Cuyuno term for “luster” or “glimmer,” reflecting Taytay’s moniker as the “Estrella Del Norte” or “Star of the North” of Palawan.
The festival’s highlight is the Street Dance Competition, where different regional dance groups perform alongside locals and tourists. Another way to enjoy the festival is through “Paguetekan,” a local term for indulging in eating, where visitors can sample various local delicacies from different provinces at food booths in the municipal complex.
At Kampo Natin, a cultural campsite, visitors can purchase souvenirs and local handicrafts. The most anticipated event is the Cultural Night, where pageants from each cultural group compete to be crowned Miss Taytay, who will represent the municipality in the annual Provincial Baragatan Festival held in Puerto Princesa
taytay, PALAWAN
Best Island Resorts & Retreats
Flower Island Resort
The remote and serene Flower Island can be escaped to, where the tranquility of nature can be basked in. A perfect sanctuary for those seeking seclusion and privacy is offered by this tropical island retreat. With only 20 bungalows set amidst lush gardens, white sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters abundant with marine life, the resort is the ultimate tropical getaway.
Harmoniously blending with the natural surroundings, the bungalows are exclusively built with local materials and recycled wood. A breathtaking backdrop for a truly memorable vacation is provided by the unspoiled white sand beach, surrounded by thick green jungle and crystal blue sea.
NoaNoa Private Island
Noa Noa Island is the ultimate destination for those seeking complete seclusion and exclusivity. This private island, located in Taytay Bay, can be rented entirely for your tropical getaway.
Surrounded by a tropical coral reef teeming with marine life, Noa Noa Island is a dream come true for those seeking a truly private island experience with their friends or loved ones.
During your stay, you can explore the surrounding area with island hopping, snorkeling, diving, and kayaking.
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