Coconut Beach: Palawan’s Quirky Haven of Pigs and Palms

byKayla/January 12, 2025/inPhillipines

Coconut Beach showcases one of the most stunning coconut-lined shorelines in the Philippines!

With its rustic atmosphere and limited crowds, it stands out as one of the top attractions in Port Barton. Adding to its unique appeal, visitors can even encounter the friendly pigs that call this beach home!

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Coconut Beach in Port Barton, helping you plan an unforgettable visit to this idyllic palm-fringed paradise.

Why you should visit Coconut Beach?

Stunning Natural Beauty: Coconut Beach is one of the most picturesque spots in Port Barton, boasting a pristine shoreline fringed with swaying coconut palms and crystal-clear waters. It’s a tropical paradise perfect for relaxing and soaking in the beauty of nature.

As the name suggests, Coconut Beach has one of the most stunning coconut-lined shorelines in Palawan.

Swimming: The calm, clear waters are perfect for swimming, allowing visitors to enjoy refreshing dips in the sea.

There are some bamboo platforms you can swim out to and relax on. You may wish to bring some water shoes, as some parts of the beach can be rocky.

FYI: The main beach at Port Barton town had a lot of warning signs for jelly fish, and we even saw some big ones laying on the beach. Jelly fish in the Philippines can be an issue, particularly in March and April.

This area is safer for jelly fish, as it’s a shallow bay, though you should still be cautious. Ask the caretakers of the beach what the current jelly fish situation is like.

Secluded and Peaceful Atmosphere: Unlike more crowded tourist destinations in Palawan, Coconut Beach offers a tranquil and uncrowded setting.

For the most part, Coconut Beach in Port Barton does not attract many tourists. The beach retains its rustic and unspoiled feel, making it ideal for travelers seeking an authentic and less-commercialized experience.

There is no infrastructure here, giving this Port Barton beach an authentic tropical island feel.

Unique Experiences: Coconut Beach is home to friendly pigs that roam freely along the shore, adding a quirky and memorable touch to your visit.

If Pig Beach in the Caribbean is high up on your bucket list, then Coconut Beach could be considered the Filipino version!

As it is all over the Philippines, there is also a community of stray dogs living here. They were friendly for the most part, just looking for food or attention, but would leave you alone if you ignored them, opting for those visitors who give them what they want.

Accessible Yet Untouched: While it’s easily reachable by foot, kayak, or scooter, Coconut Beach remains largely undeveloped, preserving its natural charm and appeal.

Proximity to Other Attractions: Coconut Beach is just a short 15-minute walk from the neighboring White Beach, making it a convenient addition to your itinerary if you’re in the mood for some beach hopping.

How to get to Coconut Beach:

Walking to Coconut Beach: A Scenic Jungle Adventure

Walking is an adventurous and budget-friendly way to reach Coconut Beach. The scenic route takes you along the shoreline and through lush jungle trails, offering an immersive experience of Port Barton’s natural beauty.

The Walking Route

Duration: The walk to Coconut Beach takes approximately 20-30 minutes from Port Barton town, depending on your pace.
Starting Point:
- Begin at Port Barton’s main beach (Itaytay Beach).
- Head left along the shoreline until you reach the end of the beach.
Crossing the Stream:
- At the end of the beach, you’ll need to cross a small stream that runs into the sea.
Jungle Path:
- Look for a trailhead in the bushes just beyond the stream.
- Follow the jungle path, which takes you past another beach and mangroves. You’ll stay roughly parallel to the beachfront for most of the walk.
Signs:
- Eventually, you’ll come across signs indicating private property and directions to the main road leading to Coconut Beach.ans before heading out, especially if walking alone.

Alternative Routes

Main Road Route:
- If you prefer a more straightforward return journey, you can take the main road back to Port Barton, which takes 45-60 minutes to walk.
- Note: This route is less scenic but provides an alternative if you want to avoid retracing your steps through the jungle.

Things to Watch Out For

Dogs on the Trail:
- As is normal all over the Philippines, stray dogs are common along the jungle path and the main road. While most are harmless, some may bark or approach you. We encountered dogs on both routes. Some were more aggressive than others.
- Tip: Stay calm, avoid sudden movements, and give them space if needed.
Private Property Signs:
- Respect property boundaries and stick to marked trails to avoid trespassing.

Tips for Walking

Footwear: Wear sturdy sandals or shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
Essentials:
- Bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Timing: Start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and give yourself plenty of time to explore Coconut Beach.
Stay Safe: Inform someone of your plans before heading out, especially if walking alone.

Kayaking to Coconut Beach: A Fun and Scenic Adventure

Kayaking is one of the most enjoyable and adventurous ways to reach Coconut Beach. Paddling along the coast offers breathtaking views of crystal-clear waters, lush greenery, and stretches of untouched beaches, making the journey as memorable as the destination.

Renting a Kayak

Where to Rent: Kayaks can be rented from Itaytay Beach (the main beach in Port Barton), either through beachfront accommodations or local vendors.
Rental Rates:
- ₱300-₱500 for half a day.
- ₱800-₱1000 for a full day.
Tips: Ask vendors for advice on the best route to Coconut Beach before setting out.

The Kayaking Route

Starting Point: Begin at the main beach in Port Barton, where kayak rentals are located.
Duration: The paddle to Coconut Beach takes approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on your speed and weather conditions.
Scenic Stops: Along the way, enjoy views of rock formations, mangroves, and smaller hidden beaches.
Difficulty Level: The waters are generally calm, making the route suitable for beginners. However, it’s best to avoid kayaking in rough weather or during high winds.

Tips for an Enjoyable Trip

Timing: Start early in the morning to avoid the heat and ensure ample time to relax at the beach.
Check the Weather: Calm weather ensures a safer and more pleasant paddle.
Safety First:
- Always wear a life jacket, even if you’re a confident swimmer.
- Inform someone of your plans before heading out.
Stay Hydrated: Bring water and sunscreen to stay protected under the sun.

Driving a Scooter to Coconut Beach: A Quick and Scenic Ride

Driving a scooter is a convenient and fun way to reach Coconut Beach, offering a quicker alternative to walking or kayaking.

The Scooter Route

Duration:
- The drive from Port Barton to Coconut Beach takes approximately 10-15 minutes.
Road Conditions:
- The route includes unpaved and uneven roads, so be prepared for a bumpy ride. Some sections may be steep, especially closer to the beach.
- During or after rain, the dirt roads can become muddy and more challenging to navigate.
Parking:
- Once you arrive at Coconut Beach, parking is available near the entrance. Make sure to park in designated areas and avoid blocking pathways.

Where to Rent a Scooter

Rental Locations: Scooters can be rented in Port Barton town from local shops or accommodations.
Cost: Rates typically range from ₱400-₱600 per day, depending on the rental provider and the condition of the scooter.
Rental Requirements: You may need to provide a valid driver’s license and a deposit.

Tips for Driving to Coconut Beach

Experience Level:
- The roads can be tricky, so it’s best suited for those with some experience driving scooters.
Check the Weather:
- Avoid driving during heavy rain as the roads can become slippery and difficult to navigate.
Safety Gear:
- Always wear a helmet and closed-toe shoes for safety.
Essentials:
- Bring water, sunscreen, and a small bag with snacks.
- Ensure your scooter is fueled up before heading out, as fuel stops are limited outside of town.
Watch for Stray Animals:
- Stray dogs and other animals may wander onto the road, so drive cautiously, especially in rural areas.

Taking a Trike to Coconut Beach: A Possible but Expensive Option

While taking a trike to Coconut Beach is possible, it’s probably the most expensive and inconvenient way to get there.

What to Expect

Cost:
- Trike fares to Coconut Beach are higher compared to other transportation options. While you can get a trike from Port Barton town for around ₱250-₱350 one way, arranging a return trip can cost over ₱500 PHP, as drivers may charge extra to come back to the beach for pickups.
Availability:
- While it’s relatively easy to find a trike in town to take you to Coconut Beach, return trips are less reliable. Few trikes come to the beach on their own for pickups. Once they are there, they know you are limited on options, and charge a higher return fare.
Convenience:
- If you decide to take a trike, you’ll need to organize the same trike to pick you up at a specific time. It’s crucial to agree on a total price for both the trip to and from the beach beforehand to avoid surprises.

The Trike Route

Duration:
- The ride takes approximately 30 minutes from Port Barton town.
Road Conditions:
- The dirt and unpaved roads leading to Coconut Beach can make for a bumpy ride.
Drop-off Point:
- Trike drivers will drop you near the beach entrance.

Tips if You Choose to Take a Trike

Pre-Arrange Your Ride:
- When hiring a trike in town, arrange for the driver to come back at a specified time to pick you up. Negotiate and agree on a total price for both trips beforehand.
Carry Cash:
- Make sure to have small bills for easier payment.
Be Flexible:
- Allow extra time in case of delays, especially if your trike doesn’t arrive on schedule for the return trip.

Coconut Beach Entrance Fee:

Coconut Beach Entrance Fee: ₱50 per person (approximately $1.22 CAD or $0.85 USD).

Coconut Beach in Port Barton is privately owned, and an entrance fee is required to access it.

You’ll find a wooden shack near the beach entrance. This is where you pay the fee before entering.

Please note: It’s important to note that the caretakers strictly enforce this fee. Some visitors have reported that the caretakers can be firm or even rude when questioned about it. If you’re not willing to pay this fee, Coconut Beach may not be the right choice for you.

Coconut Beach Quick Guide:

Why visit? Secluded and peaceful, with a stunning coconut-lined shoreline, crystal-clear waters, and a rustic charm. Perfect for relaxing, swimming, and spotting the quirky beach pigs!
Price: ₱50 per person for entry (approx. $1.22 CAD or $0.85 USD)
Location: 📍 Coconut Beach, San Vincent, Palawan
How to get there: Walk, Kayak, Scooter or Trike. Please note the roads are in poor condition, and you may come across stray dogs on your journey there.
Amenities/Facilities: No bathrooms available, small vendor available for snacks, no full meals. Some hammocks.
Notes: If you stay all day, Coconut Beach is a great place to catch the sunset!

byKayla/January 12, 2025/inPhillipines

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Discover the charm of Coconut Beach, a serene hidden gem in Port Barton, Palawan. With its palm-lined shores, crystal-clear waters, and quirky resident pigs, this tropical paradise offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re beach hopping, kayaking, or simply soaking up the sun, Coconut Beach is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and explorers alike!

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Coconut Beach: Palawan’s Quirky Haven of Pigs and Palms

Why you should visit Coconut Beach?