San Vicente Airport, nestled in the heart of Palawan, is more than just a landing strip – it’s the gateway to some of the Philippines’ most breathtaking landscapes, including the famed Long Beach and the island-hopping paradise of Port Barton. After a history of pioneering flights and changes in airline partners, San Vicente Airport is now set to welcome Cebu Pacific Airlines, which will officially begin its four-times-weekly service from Mactan International Airport in Cebu on October 24, 2024. This connection brings new accessibility and excitement to the area, positioning San Vicente as a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Brief History of San Vicente Airport
San Vicente Airport’s journey has been one of growth and resilience. Initially, Air Juan pioneered flights to San Vicente, connecting it to Puerto Princesa International Airport. The airport then welcomed PAL Express, which served the Clark-San Vicente route until the COVID-19 pandemic brought global travel to a halt. In the post-pandemic landscape, PAL was replaced by Sunlight Air, and now Cebu Pacific takes the lead as the only airline to service the San Vicente-Cebu route. With more airlines considering the San Vicente route, the airport is well on its way to becoming a central hub for travelers to Palawan’s scenic west coast, including nearby El Nido.
Flying to San Vicente: What to Expect
Starting on October 24, Cebu Pacific will operate flights every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, making it easier than ever for travelers to reach San Vicente from Cebu. With this new route, visitors can quickly access the iconic Long Beach, Port Barton’s rich marine life, and other local attractions without the usual lengthy transfers.
San Vicente Airport is conveniently located for travelers staying in the Long Beach area, where e-trikes are readily available for easy transport to local accommodations. For those headed to Port Barton, however, planning ahead is crucial. Vans are available but limited, and booking ahead can save travelers from the high costs of last-minute rentals. Another unique option to reach Port Barton is by boarding a motorized outrigger boat from the town proper in Población. Given the limited daily trips, securing boat bookings in advance is also highly recommended.
Accommodations in San Vicente: Where to Stay
San Vicente offers a range of accommodations to suit various budgets and preferences:
- Long Beach: Known as the crown jewel of San Vicente, Long Beach boasts some of the area’s most luxurious accommodations. The iconic Club Agutaya, the pioneering luxury hotel in San Vicente, is located in Barangay San Isidro, alongside the newer Elizabeth Hotel. Both offer top-notch amenities, with other luxury resorts also under development along this scenic stretch. Megaworld Corporation’s Condotel, still under construction in Kemdeng as part of Paragua Coastown, promises to be another landmark for San Vicente’s growing hospitality scene.
- Port Barton: For those who prefer a budget-friendly stay, Port Barton is a popular choice. Known as the island-hopping center of San Vicente, it offers a mix of affordable accommodations and recently opened standard hotels, providing more options for a range of travelers. From Port Barton, visitors can explore the vibrant marine life, including a turtle sanctuary, and the nearby Bigaho and Pamuayan waterfalls.
- Población, New Agutaya, and Alimanguan: Budget accommodations can also be found in these areas, ideal for visitors looking for a quieter and more authentic local experience. Lazuli Resort in Alimanguan is perfect for group bookings, while Población and New Agutaya provide close access to town conveniences.
Exploring San Vicente: Top Attractions and Activities
San Vicente’s pristine environment and diverse attractions make it a rising star in Philippine tourism. Key highlights include:
- Long Beach: The longest white-sand beach in the Philippines, Long Beach is a dream for beach lovers and photographers alike. Its length and beauty are unmatched, making it the ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing.
- Island-Hopping in Port Barton: A visit to San Vicente would be incomplete without exploring Port Barton’s nearby islands, where you can swim with turtles, snorkel, and enjoy unspoiled beaches. Port Barton serves as the perfect hub for island-hopping adventures.
- Scenic Viewpoints: For panoramic views of the area, head to The 100 Steps view deck in Población or the SanVic View Point and Bato ni Ning-Ning in Barangay Sto Niño. These locations offer spectacular vantage points of San Vicente’s natural beauty and are easily accessible by car or motorbike.
Planning Your Trip to San Vicente
San Vicente is a developing tourist destination, so partnering with a reliable travel agency can simplify the planning process. D’Palawan Travel and Tours (visit www.DPalawanTravelAndTours.com) is highly recommended for those seeking assistance with travel logistics, van bookings, and tours. They can also arrange excursions to popular nearby destinations like El Nido’s island-hopping tours and the Puerto Princesa Underground River.
Whether you’re soaking up the sun on Long Beach, diving into Port Barton’s underwater wonders, or exploring the quaint villages around San Vicente, the new flight routes to San Vicente Airport provide an unprecedented opportunity to experience this hidden paradise in Palawan. With Cebu Pacific’s regular flights from Cebu, travelers can now reach this serene destination with greater ease, opening up endless adventures in one of the Philippines’ most promising eco-tourism locations.