Cebu Pacific’s four-times-weekly service is expected to enhance connectivity, allowing easier travel from Cebu to San Vicente every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. This new route positions Cebu Pacific as the only airline currently serving San Vicente, opening doors for other carriers to consider future service. With more accessible travel, tourists can reach San Vicente’s iconic Long Beach and nearby Port Barton, known as the island-hopping center of San Vicente.
San Vicente Airport: A New Gateway to the Crown Jewel of Palawan
San Vicente Airport, located in the heart of Palawan, is emerging as a key entry point for tourists eager to experience the untouched beauty of the Philippines’ longest white-sand stretch, Long Beach. With Cebu Pacific’s new direct flights from Mactan International Airport in Cebu, starting on October 26, 2024, San Vicente is now more accessible than ever. This latest development underscores the town’s growing reputation as a premier eco-tourism destination, bridging travel gaps and providing seamless access to both San Vicente and the nearby paradise of El Nido.
A Brief History of San Vicente Airport
San Vicente Airport, initially catering to small-scale tourism, gradually expanded with commercial flights beginning through pioneering service from Air Juan, which offered flights from Puerto Princesa International Airport. This was followed by PAL Express which operated flights from Clark to San Vicente but later ceased service during the Pandemic, and eventually being replaced by Sunlight Air. Now, Cebu Pacific stands as the primary airline connecting travelers from Cebu, marking a new chapter in the airport’s journey as a regional hub for tourism.
Discovering San Vicente and Surrounding Areas
- Long Beach: As the centerpiece of San Vicente, Long Beach is an expansive, serene stretch of sand perfect for relaxation. Home to luxurious accommodations, this area has seen rapid development with resorts like Club Agutaya and the newly operational Elizabeth Hotel in Barangay San Isidro. Visitors can also look forward to new offerings, as Megaworld’s Paragua Coastown condotel project in Kemdeng takes shape. Once completed, the said condotel will provide additional accommodation options for tourists.
- Port Barton: For budget-conscious travelers, Port Barton offers an array of accommodations and stands as the island-hopping epicenter. From here, tourists can explore nearby islands, snorkel at turtle sanctuaries, and visit hidden waterfalls such as Bigaho and Pamuayan Falls. However, since vans from San Vicente Airport to Port Barton are limited, it’s crucial to book in advance through a reliable travel agent like D’Palawan Travel and Tours to secure convenient transport. You may visit their website at www.DPalawanTravelAndTours.com.
- Getting Around: San Vicente is a developing destination, and planning transportation in advance is essential. For those heading to Port Barton, options include pre-booked van transfers or a scenic boat ride from Poblacion. Visitors staying at Long Beach resorts can enjoy a quick e-trike ride to their accommodations. Daily boat voyages to Port Barton are limited, so early reservations are highly recommended to avoid renting a costly private boat.
- Other Key Attractions: San Vicente is brimming with breathtaking viewpoints and natural beauty. The SanVic View Point, Bato ni Ning-Ning, and The 100 Steps offer incredible panoramas of the landscape, allowing visitors to appreciate the vastness of Long Beach and other stunning beaches in San Vicente.
Tips for a Seamless San Vicente Experience
To make the most of a trip to San Vicente, visitors are encouraged to work with local travel agencies, such as D’Palawan Travel and Tours, who offer expertise and booking support for activities. These agencies can arrange van transfers, boat bookings, and island-hopping tours not only in San Vicente but also in El Nido and Puerto Princesa, including the famed Underground River. By securing reservations through a travel agency, travelers can avoid last-minute transportation hassles and enjoy a worry-free stay.
A Promising Future for San Vicente Tourism
As San Vicente gains attention for its pristine beaches, community-centric tourism, and eco-friendly initiatives, the future looks promising. Cebu Pacific’s entry into San Vicente Airport signifies a pivotal step in the town’s transformation from a secluded beach destination to a tourism hub poised to rival Palawan’s popular locales. The increasing options for accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget stays, ensure that all types of travelers can find a comfortable retreat in San Vicente.
San Vicente Airport’s new connection with Cebu Pacific represents more than just convenience; it marks the beginning of a travel renaissance for Palawan, inviting both new and returning visitors to rediscover its natural wonders. Whether you’re there to lounge on Long Beach, embark on adventures in Port Barton, or simply take in the beauty of this emerging paradise, San Vicente offers an unforgettable gateway to the finest of the Philippines.