ABW Dec 2023-1

kilometers that is protected by law. There is a no fishing
policy around the park and the reefs are also protected
against reef poaching.
The best way to explore Port Barton is to hire a boat and a
guide for the day so that you can go snorkeling in several
pristine sites namely Aquarium 1, Aquarium 2, Wide Reef,
Twin Reef and Sanctuary. Since these sites are not yet
frequented by many people, snorkeling can be a totally
relaxing experience. In between your undersea explorations,
you can stop at any of the small islands around the park
- German Island, Paradise Island and Exotic Island are the
more popular ones.
Bigaho Falls
Located in Sitio Bigaho, in Port Barton. The falls can be
reached by taking a 20-minute boat ride from Port Barton
to the white sand beach of Bigaho. From the beachfront,
a 10 to 15-minute hike up the mountains will bring you to
the waterfalls. The waterfalls have a total of 14 levels, where
water cascades down rock formations. However, only two
levels are accessible to the public and these are the ones that
are most photographed. After the trek, you will be tempted
to take a dip in the lagoon at the foot of the falls and let
the cool mountain spring water cool you down. Dispose of
your garbage correctly to protect the environment, it is also
recommended you bring your own food and drink as there
are no stores nearby.
Manta Ray Reef
Manta Ray Reef is one of the areas in Port Barton. However, the
reef deserves a separate mention because it is the largest area of
coral reef in San Vicente, covering an area of 150 hectares. The
nearest island to the reef is Capsalay Island, so you can either
use this as a jump-off point for the reef or you can arrange for a
boat to take you to the reef from anywhere in Port Barton. You
can spend a good two to three hours just exploring the reef and
taking in this awesome snorkeling adventure.
Long Beach
Long Beach, is so named because it’s 14 kilometer (8.7
mile) long beach front, and is one of the longest white sand
beaches in the Philippines. It is over three times longer than
the beach in Boracay and 1000 times cleaner, it actually
straddles three villages in San Vicente. Here you can literally
have the beach all to yourself. You can choose to hire a
motorcycle and drive from one end of the beach to the
other. Or if you prefer to take it slow, just walk along the
beach. If you get tired, sit on the fine white sand and if you
get hot, take a quick dip. There are limited facilities nearby
so it is best be prepared with water and some snacks.
Bigaho Falls
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