Palawan Island Hopping Comparison: Port Barton vs El Nido vs Coron
TL;DR
We island-hopped in Port Barton, El Nido, and Coron – and our honest comparison shows which Palawan tour is best for snorkelling, kayaking, avoiding crowds, and getting the most out of your time (and money).
Planning a trip to Palawan but not sure which island-hopping tour to book? With Port Barton, El Nido, and Coron, each destination offers stunning beaches, turquoise lagoons, and unique experiences – but they are very different in vibe, activities, and crowds.
We’ve personally done the most popular tours at all three destinations and compiled this ultimate comparison to help you decide which one suits your travel style – and book the right tour with confidence.
Port Barton vs El Nido vs Coron: Which Palawan Island Hopping Tour Is Right for You?
TL;DR
We’ve linked the best-reviewed tours below so you can book directly:
- Port Barton: Quiet & relaxing, perfect for snorkelling and sandbars.
- El Nido: Iconic lagoons & beaches.
- Coron: Adventure, kayaking, wreck snorkelling, dramatic cliffs.
Quick Comparison Table
Feature / Destination |
Port Barton (Tour A) |
El Nido (Tour A) |
Coron (Super Ultimate) |
Vibe |
Relaxed, low-key, quiet |
Popular, iconic, busy |
Active, adventure-packed, busy |
Best For |
Snorkelling & turtles, beaches |
Limestone cliffs, lagoons, beaches |
Limestone cliffs, lagoons, kayaking, wreck snorkelling |
Crowds |
Very low |
Moderate to high |
Moderate to high |
Highlights |
Turtle Spot, Sandbar, Exotic and Maxima Island |
Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, 7 Commando Beach, Shimizu Island |
Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, Skeleton Wreck, CYC Beach |
Snorkelling |
Excellent, turtles and reef fish |
No designated snorkel stops |
Good at Skeleton Wreck, Coral Garden |
Kayaking |
No designated kayaking stops |
Highly recommended at Big Lagoon |
Recommended for Twin Lagoon & off-the-beaten spots |
Lunch Included |
Yes – buffet style, super well-presented |
Yes – buffet style on a scenic beach |
Yes – buffet style, over-water cabana |
Ease of Access |
Meeting point at main beach |
Meeting point at main beach |
Pick-up from hotel included |
Tour Length |
Full day, 4 stops |
Full day, 4 stops |
Full day, 7 stops |
Most Popular Tour |
Port Barton Tour A | El Nido Tour A | Coron Super Ultimate Tour |
Full Reviews |
Island Hopping Port Barton Review | El Nido Tour A Review | Coron Super Ultimate Tour Review |
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Destination Highlights & Experience
Port Barton – Relaxed Island Hopping
Port Barton Tour A is perfect if you want to escape the crowds. Highlights include:
- Turtle Spot – swim with turtles without crowds.
- Twin Reef – great for snorkelling.
- Exotic & Maxima Islands – serene beaches plus a sandbar.
- Starfish Sandbar – a perfect Instagram-worthy spot.
Peaceful snorkelling, uncrowded beaches, and slow-paced exploration.
El Nido – Iconic Views & Lagoon Adventure
El Nido Tour A is the most popular choice in Palawan, and for a reason. It delivers:
- Big Lagoon – perfect for kayaking and stunning turquoise waters.
- Secret Lagoon – photo-worthy hidden gem.
- 7 Commando Beach & Shimizu Island – white sand beaches.
Great for first-timers and those who want a scenic tour. Get the iconic views everyone talks about.
Coron – Lagoon Adventure & Wreck Snorkelling
Coron’s Super Ultimate Tour is action-packed and perfect if you like exploring dramatic cliffs, clear lakes, and WWII wrecks. Key highlights:
- Kayangan Lake – crystal-clear lake with a viewpoint.
- Skeleton Wreck – shallow wreck snorkelling for beginners.
- Twin Lagoon – kayaking through limestone cliffs.
- CYC Beach – desert island beach.
Best for active travellers, snorkelers, and those seeking a full-day adventure. The tour is efficient and covers all highlights.
Our Recommendation
We think that all three tours complement each other really well. All three tours
- have different vibes
- feel quintessential
- are budget-friendly
- are time-efficient
If you have the chance, book all three of them!
If you have to choose, no matter which tour you pick, Palawan’s islands won’t disappoint. Pick based on your style!
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