San Vicente Airport is quickly becoming the new gem in Palawan’s travel scene, inviting tourists to discover the serene landscapes and beaches of San Vicente and nearby destinations. Starting October 24, 2024, Cebu Pacific Airlines is set to serve the airport with direct flights from Mactan International Airport in Cebu, marking a fresh chapter in accessible travel to Palawan. This development paves the way for San Vicente to establish itself as a premier eco-tourism spot in the Philippines, renowned for its expansive Long Beach, quaint fishing villages, and vibrant island-hopping activities.
A Brief History of San Vicente Airport
Originally opened to connect the emerging town of San Vicente to major tourist hubs, San Vicente Airport has seen varied airline operations over the years. The airport’s journey began with Air Juan, which was the first airline to offer scheduled flights between Puerto Princesa and San Vicente. Following Air Juan’s lead, PAL Express operated routes between Clark and San Vicente, but these flights were halted during the pandemic. Sunlight Air later filled this gap, catering to travelers until Cebu Pacific’s recent entry, which solidifies San Vicente’s importance as a travel destination. As of October 2024, Cebu Pacific is the only airline with scheduled flights to San Vicente, setting a precedent for other airlines potentially considering routes to this scenic destination.
Getting to San Vicente’s Highlights
With Cebu Pacific’s new flights, tourists now have more convenient access to San Vicente’s primary attractions, most notably Long Beach and Port Barton.
- Port Barton – Island Hopping Hub: Known as San Vicente’s island-hopping capital, Port Barton boasts an array of activities, from snorkeling with sea turtles in designated sanctuaries to visiting secluded islands and waterfalls like Bigaho and Pamuayan Falls. Budget accommodations are plentiful here, making it ideal for backpackers and those seeking a laid-back beach experience. However, it’s essential to arrange van transportation from San Vicente Airport to Port Barton in advance due to limited availability. Another option is a scenic outrigger boat trip from Población to Port Barton, but reservations are recommended as daily voyages are few.
- Long Beach – The Crown Jewel of San Vicente: Stretching over 14 kilometers, Long Beach is Palawan’s longest white-sand beach and remains relatively untouched by commercial development. Known for its potential as an eco-tourism hub, Long Beach offers luxurious stays at resorts like Club Agutaya in San Isidro and the newly operational Elizabeth Hotel. E-trike services make it easy to reach accommodations here directly from the airport.
- Scenic Viewpoints: San Vicente’s charm extends beyond its beaches, with panoramic viewpoints like The 100 Steps in Población and Bato ni Ning Ning in Barangay Sto. Niño, offering sweeping views of the coastline. These spots are ideal for visitors looking to capture Palawan’s raw beauty from above.
Essential Travel Tips
For a smooth visit to San Vicente, travelers should consider a few logistical points to enhance their experience:
- Book Ahead: San Vicente is still a developing tourist destination, which means resources like van transfers and boat rides to Port Barton can be limited. Secure your transportation and accommodations in advance to avoid potential delays or higher costs.
- Accommodation Options: The range of accommodations in San Vicente varies from budget-friendly stays in Port Barton to luxury resorts in Long Beach, with a few standard hotels recently opened in Port Barton. For larger groups, the Lazuli Resort in Alimanguan is an excellent choice, while budget options are available in Población, New Agutaya, and San Isidro.
- Use a Travel Agency: Partnering with a reputable travel agency like D’Palawan Travel and Tours is recommended for navigating the area’s transportation and tours. They can assist with bookings for van transfers, boat rentals, and popular tours to El Nido and the Puerto Princesa Underground River.
A New Chapter in San Vicente Tourism
The arrival of Cebu Pacific’s direct flights to San Vicente opens up a wealth of possibilities for Palawan’s tourism industry. Not only does it simplify access for travelers, but it also positions San Vicente as a must-visit destination for those looking to explore Palawan’s unspoiled beauty. Long Beach, often called the crown jewel of San Vicente, has potential as a premier eco-tourism destination. Meanwhile, Port Barton continues to charm visitors with its laid-back atmosphere, diverse marine life, and vibrant local culture.
For travelers drawn to the promise of pristine beaches, unique island experiences, and a more relaxed vibe than Palawan’s busier hubs, San Vicente is the perfect escape. As the tourism infrastructure gradually develops, San Vicente’s reputation as the “next big thing” in Philippine tourism will only continue to grow, inviting more adventurers to experience its unparalleled beauty.
Conclusion
San Vicente Airport serves as the ideal gateway for tourists eager to explore the hidden wonders of Palawan. With Cebu Pacific’s new direct flights, this remote destination is now more accessible, making it easier for visitors to enjoy the beauty of Long Beach, the charm of Port Barton, and the scenic viewpoints of San Vicente.