Things To Do
in San Vicente
San Vicente, Palawan is a coastal municipality known for its pristine beaches and laid-back island vibe. It sits along the northeastern coast of Palawan and serves as a gateway to the famous Long Beach, a sweeping 14-km stretch of white sand. The town combines fishing heritage with growing eco-tourism, offering markets, sea views, and friendly locals.
Visitors can expect tropical warmth, clear blue waters, and a pace of life that invites day trips and leisurely evenings by the shore.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at San Vicente and take in the fresh, coastal air as you make your way to your accommodation. Check in and unpack while admiring the beautiful views of the surrounding nature. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café to kickstart your adventure.
Spend your afternoon exploring San Vicente’s beautiful long beach, renowned for its soft sand and clear waters. You can engage in activities like swimming, sunbathing, or simply walking along the shore. Stop by a beachside vendor for fresh coconut water or local snacks.
As the sun sets, head to a beachfront restaurant for dinner while enjoying the sound of the waves. Try out local Filipino dishes like grilled seafood or adobo while mingling with other travelers. End the evening with a peaceful stroll along the beach under the stars.
Take a short boat ride to Port Barton, a nearby fishing village known for its stunning scenery. Begin your day with breakfast at a charming beachfront café, enjoying fresh catches of the day. Afterwards, explore the pristine beaches and capture the beauty of the surrounding islands.
Join a snorkeling tour to discover vibrant marine life and coral reefs in the clear waters surrounding Port Barton. Swim among tropical fish and explore hidden coves, making the most of this underwater paradise. Take a leisurely lunch on the beach or on the boat to make the most of your time in the water.
Return to San Vicente just in time to watch another enchanting sunset, filling the sky with brilliant colors. Choose a cozy restaurant for dinner, and enjoy local specialties as you recount the day’s adventures. Wind down with a nightcap at a beach bar, listening to the gentle lull of the ocean.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🧋Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚗Local transportation (short ride) | $0.5-2 |
| 🧃Snack or fruit stand | $0.5-2 |
| 🏖️Public beach access | Free |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Pristine beaches and clear waters
- Relaxed, welcoming vibe
- Relatively affordable costs for Palawan
- Growing eco-tourism and nature experiences
- Delicious fresh seafood and local dishes
- Limited nightlife and developed amenities compared to larger cities
- Remote location can mean longer travel times
- Some services and infrastructure are still developing
- Seasonal weather can impact accessibility to some sites
- "Kamusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
- "Tulong" - Help
Places to Visit in San Vicente
Visit one of these nice places.
A breathtaking 14-km white-sand stretch; early mornings and late afternoons yield soft light and fewer crowds.
Calm water reflections at dawn make for striking landscape shots.
Silhouettes of boats and fishermen against a vibrant sunset backdrop.
Ridge viewpoints along the coast offering panoramic sea views and dramatic horizons.
Food in San Vicente
San Vicente Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Palawan delicacy—often eaten fresh with calamansi, vinegar, and chili; find it at seaside stalls.
Must-Try!
Ceviche-style dish with raw fish, lime juice, onions, and chiles; common at seaside eateries.
Sun-dried anchovy typically enjoyed with fried rice and a squeeze of calamansi.
Freshly caught fish, squid, and crustaceans grilled and served with dipping sauces.
Classic adobo prepared with local ingredients or coconut milk for a regional touch.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling morning market with fresh seafood, produce, and prepared snacks; great for authentic bites.
Outdoor stalls where you can pick seafood to be grilled on-site and enjoyed with rice.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting religious or rural areas; ask permission before taking photos of people; remove shoes where required.
Safety
Tipping in San Vicente
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not always expected; 5-10% in restaurants if service was good; small tips for tour guides or boat crews; cash is commonly preferred for street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with sunny days, clear skies, and ideal beach conditions; expect hot temperatures and bright sun.
Wet season brings daily showers and occasional storms; seas can be rougher and trails slippery, but landscapes are lush and crowds are smaller.
San Vicente at Night
Hiking in San Vicente
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate coastal hike with viewpoints over the sea and surrounding islets.
Flat trail with mangroves; option for calm boat or kayak paddling through shallow waters.
Airports
How to reach San Vicente by plane.
Main gateway to Palawan; drive to San Vicente typically 4–6 hours depending on road conditions.
Small regional airport serving El Nido; transfer to San Vicente by road can take several hours.
Small airstrip serving charter and domestic flights; schedules vary; check with operators for availability.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Palawan indigenous communities and Tagalog-speaking residents with a welcoming local culture.
Domestic and international visitors drawn to Palawan’s beaches, islands, and nature experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular; local leagues and pickup games are common.
Traditional coastal activity and sport in fishing villages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Vicente.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Opt for vegetable dishes, tofu-based options, and rice; clearly communicate with vendors; many places will adapt dishes on request.