Table of Contents
Star Beach is one of Palawan’s lesser-known yet stunning destinations, located in the picturesque Bacuit Bay near El Nido. This beautiful beach is a part of the popular island-hopping tours in the area, especially Tour C, which includes several other breathtaking stops. Star Beach is perfect for travelers looking to enjoy both underwater adventures and quiet relaxation in a tropical paradise.
Getting to Star Beach
To visit Star Beach, follow these steps:
Fly to El Nido or Puerto Princesa
- Direct Flights to El Nido: The easiest way to get to El Nido is by flying directly to El Nido Airport (Lio Airport) via small carriers like AirSWIFT. This option is more convenient, though pricier.
- Flights to Puerto Princesa: You can also fly to Puerto Princesa International Airport on budget airlines like Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines. From here, you’ll need to take a van or bus to El Nido.
Travel from Puerto Princesa to El Nido
- From Puerto Princesa, the van or bus ride to El Nido takes about 5-6 hours. Vans are faster but cost a little more, and they can be booked directly at the airport or through various travel services.
Book an Island-Hopping Tour
Once in El Nido, you can easily book an island-hopping tour. Look for Tour C, which includes Star Beach along with other stops like Secret Beach and Matinloc Shrine. You can book a tour through your hotel, beachfront kiosks, or online.
Boat Ride to Star Beach
On the day of the tour, you’ll take a 30- to 45-minute boat ride from El Nido’s dock to reach Star Beach, along with other islands in Bacuit Bay.
What to Expect
The moment you arrive at Star Beach, you’ll be greeted by crystal-clear waters, white sand, and a sense of serenity. It’s less crowded than some of the more famous beaches, allowing for a peaceful and intimate experience. While the beach itself is small, its charm lies in its simplicity and natural beauty.
Star Beach is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs that offer a dramatic backdrop, creating a picture-perfect scene that seems straight out of a postcard.
A Snorkeler’s Paradise
What makes Star Beach truly special is its rich marine life. The clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, where you can spot vibrant corals, schools of colorful fish, and other sea creatures. The coral reefs near the shore are shallow, so even beginners can easily explore them.
If you’re lucky, you might even encounter starfish, which is how the beach got its name. Snorkeling gear is usually provided by tour operators, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own if you have a preferred set.
Relaxation and Picnic Area
Aside from snorkeling, Star Beach is an excellent spot for relaxing and unwinding. Many tours stop here for a lunch break, allowing visitors to enjoy a picnic by the beach. You can sit on the sand, enjoy the sea breeze, and indulge in freshly grilled seafood, fruits, and other local delicacies.
With fewer visitors compared to other tourist spots, you’ll often find yourself surrounded only by the sounds of nature, offering a truly tranquil escape.
Amenities
Though Star Beach is a beautiful, natural paradise, amenities are quite basic. Here’s what you can expect:
- Picnic Area – Many tour operators stop here for lunch, providing picnic-style meals on the beach.
- Snorkeling Gear – Most tours provide snorkeling equipment, so you can explore the vibrant marine life.
- Shaded Areas – There are trees along the shoreline offering shade, perfect for resting.
- Basic Comforts – While there are no hotels or resorts, your tour boat provides essentials like water and towels.
- Toilets – On-shore facilities are very limited, so most tours rely on boat-provided toilets.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Star Beach is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. During this period, you’ll experience sunny days and calm seas, perfect for island hopping and water activities.
Tips for Visiting Star Beach
- Bring sunscreen – The sun can be intense, especially around midday, so protect your skin from UV rays.
- Pack light – Since you’ll be hopping from one island to another, bring only essentials like water, a camera, and a towel.
- Be mindful of the environment – Help preserve the beauty of Star Beach by not leaving any trash behind and being careful around the corals while snorkeling.
Conclusion
Star Beach is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a quiet spot in the midst of El Nido’s island-hopping adventures. Whether you’re a snorkeling enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, this hidden gem in Palawan will offer you unforgettable memories. Make sure to include it in your itinerary for a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. Salamat kaayu!
Chris Soronio
