How to get from Port Barton to El Nido
Why visit El Nido?
El Nido is Palawan Island’s northernmost tip, popular around the world as the gateway to paradise — the Bacuit Archipelago. This group of picture-perfect limestone islands boasts white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, enchanting lagoons, and beautiful underwater.
El Nido’s town centre leaves much to be desired with its mediocre beach, narrow streets, and mostly backpacker and mid-range hostels. But the island-hopping adventures from here are some of the best you will see in the world. Outside town, you should also include in your El Nido itinerary a visit to Nacpan-Calitang Beach and a hike to Taraw Peak.
What are the 3 ways to travel from Port Barton to El Nido?
There are 3 ways to travel the 180 kilometre (112 miles) distance from Port Barton to El Nido. You can choose between the bus, van and private transport. The journey takes 3 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours and the quickest way is by van. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at 410 PHP ($6.80) - 550 PHP ($9.20).
Where to stay in El Nido?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in El Nido at the bottom of this page.
Port Barton to El Nido by Van
When travelling from Port Barton to El Nido, the best option is to take a shared van. The journey takes around 3 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours. You can get a ticket for 690 PHP ($11.50) per person.
There are four minivan companies operating on this route, with each offering 1 to 2 trips per day.
Departure and arrival stations
Shared vans depart from Port Barton Bus Terminal, along San Jose Road in the town centre. Hotel pickup isn’t allowed due to local regulations, so you can only catch a van from the terminal. A tricycle ride to the terminal usually costs 50 PHP ($0.80) per person, though drivers often require at least two passengers.
In El Nido, the drop-off point is at El Nido Bus Terminal. Since vans aren’t allowed into the town proper, you’ll need to take a short tricycle ride to your accommodation for about 100 PHP ($1.70).
Minivan schedule from Port Barton to El Nido
Port Barton to El Nido by Bus
The bus is a cheap option to travel from Port Barton to El Nido, but it also takes longer than the minivan. You’ll first need to get to Roxas by tricycle, then catch a bus to El Nido.
Overall, the travel time will take at least 4 hours 30 minutes minutes, excluding transfer time.
Step 1: Port Barton to Roxas by Tricycle
To start the trip, you’ll need to get from Port Barton to Roxas.
There used to be a jeepney on this route, but the last time we checked (July 2025), this was no longer available. Now, the most common option is a tricycle. The journey from Port Barton to Roxas takes about 1 hour, and fares start from around 200 PHP ($3.30).
If you’re travelling light, you can also hop on a habal-habal (motorbike taxi), which is usually faster and a bit cheaper. Ask your hostel in Port Barton for the latest prices and options. They’ll point you in the right direction.
Step 2: Roxas to El Nido by Bus
From Roxas, you can take a bus to El Nido. However, because these buses actually come from Puerto Princesa, don’t be surprised if you have to wait a while.
A ticket for an air-conditioned bus costs 210 PHP ($3.50). You can expect cheaper prices with a non-air-conditioned bus. The bus ride from Roxas to El Nido takes around 3.5 hours.
If you prefer not to wait till the next bus arrives, you can also take a van at Roxas Bus Terminal. The price for the shared van from Roxas to El Nido starts at 350 PHP ($5.80). Note that drivers sometimes charge more.
Both the bus and van will drop you off at El Nido Bus Terminal, about 2 km south of the main tourist centre in El Nido.
Port Barton to El Nido by Private Transport
A private transfer is a convenient option when travelling in a group from Port Barton to El Nido.
Rates start from 6,300 PHP ($105) for a 12-seater private transfer. Divide the cost, and that’s about 525 PHP ($8.80) per person. Travel time is around 4 to 5 hours.
Even with a private transfer, some companies only drop passengers off at El Nido Bus Terminal, which is about 2 km from the tourist centre. Others can take you directly to your hotel, but extra fees may apply if your accommodation is located in an area farther from town.
Private Transport options from Port Barton to El Nido
Best places to stay in El Nido
El Nido is all about stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters and natural beauty. And that’s what our favourite stays in El Nido reflect!
There are a lot of awesome accommodations for all budgets to pick between in El Nido. Our favourite stays are places with the best views, incredible nature, stunning decor and amazing staff.
Before you start reading about our favourite stays, it’s good to know a bit about the best areas to stay in El Nido, so that you’re picking the best accommodation in the area that’s right for you.
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- El Nido Town is where you’ll find most of our favourite stays. It’s the main tourist area in El Nido, and where you’ll find the ferry point. Nice and convenient!
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- Corong-Corong is a quieter area located just south of El Nido Town and is known for its beautiful sunsets and picturesque beach.
Cadlao Resort and Restaurant - Treating Yourself
Area: Next to El Nido town — 10-minute walk to town centre
Your only negative comment about this place is that you wish you’d stayed longer. This place really is the tropical island resort that you’ve been dreaming of.
The infinity pool overlooks the sea, there are palm trees everywhere and the service is incredible. Here you’ll get to enjoy your own spacious cottage, with some of them opening up right onto the beach.
- Three swimming pools
- Beach-side bungalows
- Incredible views
- Tasty breakfast included
Double rooms start from $150 per night
Duli Beach Resort - Treating Yourself
Area: Duli Beach — around 1-hour to El Nido town
There’s no better way to start your day than drawing back the curtains and seeing the ocean right there. That’s exactly what you can get at Duli Beach Resort. Their spacious bungalows with private terraces are set right on the beach.
The remote location means that a lot of the time you’ll have the beach to yourself. You also don’t have to worry about finding food or a drink as the hotel’s on-site restaurant and bar will undoubtedly satisfy you. If you want to head to El Nido town, it’s just under an hour’s drive away.
- Right on the beach
- Secluded location
- Amazing staff
- Delicious breakfast included
Double rooms start from $50 per night
Spin Designer Hostel - Mid Range
Area: El Nido town — only a 5-minute walk around the town and beach
You might have guessed by the name, Spin Designer Hostel has been designed to perfection. It’s so nicely and creatively designed that you probably wouldn’t expect it to be a hostel.
The great thing about staying in a hostel, whether you’re in a private room or the dorms, is that there’s often great facilities. Spin Designer Hostel has a shared kitchen with BBQ facilities, a games room and a terrace surrounded by the forest. How about enjoying your complimentary breakfast here?
- Stylish and modern hostel
- Great amenities
- Delicious breakfast included
- Private and dorm rooms
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
Hutch Lodging House - Mid Range
Area: Next to El Nido town — approx. 20-minute walk to El Nido beach and town centre
Hutch Lodging House brings the outside inside. With most of the hotel being open-air and plants scattered throughout, there’s a very relaxing ambience here. You also have the option to relax on your own private balcony as every room has one.
It’s beautifully designed! The hotel is only a 10-minute walk from town — far enough that you get peace and quiet, but not too far.
- Great location
- Beautiful design
- Air conditioning
- Every room has a private balcony
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
Bale Cabugao Cottages - Budget Friendly
Area: Near El Nido town – approx. 10-minute walk to El Nido beach and town centre
Only steps from the beach, all you have to do is stand on the balcony at Bale Cabugao Cottages to hear the sound of the waves. Imagine eating your breakfast with this view! Great news: it’s included in the price.
The hosts go out of their way to help you organise anything in El Nido. Their energy is also guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
- Incredible views
- Great location
- Helpful and happy hosts
- Comfortable rooms
Double rooms $15-$30 per night
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Port Barton to El Nido. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Frequently Asked Questions about Port Barton to El Nido
What is the distance from Port Barton to El Nido?
The distance from Port Barton to El Nido is 180 kilometre (112 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Port Barton to El Nido?
The fastest way to get from Port Barton to El Nido is by van and takes 3 hours 30 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Port Barton to El Nido?
The cheapest way to get from Port Barton to El Nido is by bus with ticket costs starting from 410 PHP ($6.80) - 550 PHP ($9.20).
Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She’s loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand’s beaches also have a special place in her heart.
Selene is a writer who loves coffee, travel, and planning. After spending a decade in Manila, she left the city and her career in banking to embrace a more laid-back lifestyle. Now, she is discovering the beauty of slow-paced travel and finding joy in meaningful experiences.
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
