The Secret Paradise Resort: Found Paradise in the Philippines

[Heidi Kleiber]

Palawan is known to be one of the places that have the best beaches. Due to its popularity, the resorts in Palawan tend to be over crowded, and the prices are way too high.  However, this is not always the case. Just recently, I had the chance to go to Palawan, and visit the Secret Paradise Resort, which is a very highly affordable place.  The resort is located between Port Barton´s Marine Park and Sabang. I must admit, the trip going to the resort was quite long. From Puerto Princesa, it takes almost 4 hours to get to Port Barton. From there one must hire a boat going to the resort.  The resort also provides transportation service from Puerto Princesa airport to their place with a little extra cost. 

 

During the boat ride, I could see my cellular signal vanish, which gave me an uneasy feeling.  Then a sudden change of emotion arose as the boat took a turn to the entrance of a cove. The resort truly seemed to be a paradise.  With clear water, I could see the corals underneath just by looking at the side of the boat. The place has native looking cottages, which complimented the area. 

 

 

 

Upon our arrival, we were given welcome drinks, and the staff as well as the resort owner gave us a warm welcome.

 

Our cottages looked native, but it is complete with air-condition, safety vault where I could place my important stuffs, large bed, and a comfort room with hot and cold water.  They also provide complimentary toiletries like, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush and toothpaste. All of their cottages have a beachfront, so you can just imagine the wonderful view from the balcony.  They also have hammocks on each cottage where their guest could just lie down and enjoy.

 

The food at the resort was also great. Everything was fresh.

The resort is also a nature reserve, which means it is a protected area.  All animals like monkeys and parrots are living freely at their own habitat in the mountain.  Sometimes, you can also see monkeys walking around the beach. The best part is that I could also go snorkeling, without going far. Just a few meters from the beach, I could already see corals, and different fishes swimming around. 

I also heard that during the months of  November – April, mother turtles go to the beach area to lay their eggs.  The hatching months are usually during December – May.  Too bad, during the time I was there, it was not in season. I would have like to see little turtles, and help release them to the water. I would definitely go back during the hatching season.

 

The resort offers different tours like Island hopping, hiking, and the trip to the world famous (now one of the 7 wonders of the world) Puerto Princesa Subterranean Undeground River.

 

They also have services like wifi access, room service, traditional/intrasound massage, and native sauna (which is a real must-try). Kayaks are also available for use to explore their 4 private beaches.

 

The resort is a great get away place from the busy life of the city. It provides a certain calmness and relaxation. It is an ideal place for families, friends, and corporate events. I myself would definitely go back there. It is truly a paradise.