Heavenly Balabac: Reconnect with Nature!
Balabac is a tropical paradise situated in the island of Palawan, Philippines. With its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and diverse marine life, this island is a must-visit destination.
One of the best places to explore the white sand beaches in the Philippines is the islands of Palawan. The north of Palawan which are Coron and El Nido gives tourists a distinct characteristic through massive limestones and shipwrecks. Balabac islands on the other hand features more of tropical palm trees, pristine beaches, white sand beach, powdery sand, vibrantly colored coral reef and marine life. It has been a week since our visit in Balabac and I’m still in awe of its beauty which makes me wonder why is it considered as one of the underrated places in the Philippines that is well worth a visit.
Balabac is a tropical paradise situated in the island of Palawan, Philippines. With its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and diverse marine life, this island is a must-visit destination.
It is a secluded and raw paradise located in the southernmost municipality in Palawan and because of its location, it is actually nearer to Sabah in East Malaysia than Puerto Princesa, the capital city of Palawan. The food that are includes on our tours are homecooked and fresh.
In our four-day trip, we explored Balabac’s natural beauty and here are some of the must-visit spots on the island:
Onuk Island is perfect for snorkeling, diving, and swimming with sea turtles. It is a privately-owned island with crystal-clear waters, so make sure to secure permission and pay the entrance fee before visiting the island.
Candaraman Island is known for its beautiful sandbar and it is a great place for beachcombing, swimming, and taking Instagram-worthy photos with lots of starfishes! Plus it has a sandbar near it.
Candaraman Island is a long pristine white sand beach that stretches for kilometers. It is an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. It is also called Starfish Island as several starfish can be seen in here.
Before embarking on your journey to Balabac Island Palawan, be reminded of the following:
- Have enough cash before traveling since there are no atms at Balabac island and surrounding islets.
- Balabac DIY tour is not advised and I personally recommend getting a tour operator so that you won’t have to worry about the tedious transportation specifics on how to go to Balabac, Palawan.
- There’s no internet connection in the island, but you’ll find yourself more connected to nature.
- Electric generator is only open from 6pm to 6am.
Here’s an example itinerary in our Balabac Trip:
Day 1: Arrival in Balabac + Island Hopping Tour
- 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
Day 2: Balabac Island Hopping Tour 2
- Enjoy breakfast
- Island-hopping tour to Mansalangan Sandbar, Canibungan Island, and Sicsican Island
- Back to Balabac Town and check-in at accommodations
Day 3: Balabac Island Hopping Tour 3
- Enjoy breakfast
- 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
Day 4: Departure from Balabac
- 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.
“Life is about the adventures you take and the memories you make. So travel often and live life with open eyes and an open heart.”
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