Puerto Galera Voyage Tips and guide

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Puerto Galera is a town of 42,000 people (2020) on the northeastern coast of Mindoro Island, Philippines. Puerto Galera is a fairly small town and not remarkably interesting, but almost all visitors pass through it because it has the ferry terminal, and some come into it for other facilities such as ATMs or supermarkets. However, the main tourist destinations are two beach areas nearby:

• Sabang, a barangay of Puerto Galera, east of the town
• White Beach, in Barangay San Isidro, west

Puerto Galera, located on the northern coast of Mindoro Island, is one of the most accessible tropical destinations from Manila. Known for its white-sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lush mountainous landscapes, the area has been a popular getaway for both local and international travelers.

The town is a UNESCO-designated Man and the Biosphere Reserve, recognizing its rich marine biodiversity and making it a major hub for diving, snorkeling, and ecotourism. Beyond its natural beauty, Puerto Galera also has a fascinating cultural and historical heritage. Originally inhabited by the Mangyan people, the town later became an important trading port for Spanish galleons during colonial times.

While Sabang is known for its dive resorts and nightlife, White Beach attracts a more relaxed crowd, with a mix of bars, restaurants, and beachfront accommodations. Further west, Aninuan and Talipanan beaches offer quieter and less crowded alternatives. Inland, visitors can explore waterfalls, jungle trails, and indigenous Mangyan villages, adding an element of adventure beyond the coastline.

Puerto Galera has a tropical climate, with a dry season from November to May and a rainy season from June to October. While the dry months are ideal for beach activities, diving is possible year-round, as many dive sites are sheltered from seasonal monsoons.

Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, Puerto Galera offers a diverse range of experiences in a stunning natural setting.

Puerto Galera’s history dates back to the pre-colonial era, when it was inhabited by the Mangyan people, indigenous groups who still reside in the mountains of Mindoro today. The name Puerto Galera means "Port of the Galleons", a reference to its strategic importance as a safe harbor during the Spanish colonial period. Due to its natural deep bay, it served as a refuge for Spanish trade ships traveling along the Manila-Acapulco galleon route in the 16th and 17th centuries.

During the American and Japanese occupations, Puerto Galera remained a remote coastal settlement, largely untouched by rapid modernization. In the late 20th century, the town transformed into a major tourist destination, known for its beaches, diving sites, and nightlife.

Today, Puerto Galera maintains a balance between tourism and conservation, with efforts to protect its marine ecosystem while continuing to develop sustainable tourism initiatives. The presence of Mangyan communities, historical sites, and natural wonders makes it a unique blend of culture, history, and adventure.

Puerto Galera follows Philippine Standard Time (PST, UTC+8), which is the same time zone as Manila and the rest of the Philippines. There is no daylight saving time (DST) in the country.

Puerto Galera operates on a 220V, 60Hz power supply, using Type A, B, and C electrical outlets. Visitors from countries with 110V systems may need a voltage converter for certain electronic devices.

While electricity is generally reliable, power outages can occur, especially during storms or peak tourist seasons when demand is high. Many resorts and businesses have backup generators to maintain operations during short interruptions.

The closest major airport is Ninoy Aquino International Airport near Manila on the neighbouring island of Luzon. From there, most people travel by road to get to the port at Batangas City, then ferry to Puerto Galera.

There are at least three airports on the island — Calapan, Naujan and Mamburao — but there are no scheduled flights and the fields are primarily used for flight training.

Puerto Galera is 90 minutes away from Metro Manila. If you're already in Manila, getting there is pretty easy. Having a car is very convenient—all you need to do is drive through South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) and Star Tollway, then head to Batangas Pier. From there, you can either park your car and ride a ferry to Puerto Galera or take your car aboard a RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) ship.

There is one RoRo ferry per day that operates directly to Puerto Galera. The schedule varies slightly from month to month, but the departure from Batangas is generally around midday. It is advisable to check the exact schedule in advance, as times may change due to weather conditions or operational adjustments.

Alternatively, you can take the RoRo to Calapan, the capital of Oriental Mindoro, and then drive to Puerto Galera, which is about 51 km away and takes around 2 hours via a concreted zigzag road. RoRo ferries to Calapan operate approximately once per hour throughout the day.

Puerto Galera is easily accessible from areas around Manila. Most tourists prefer to take a JAM transit, or DLTB bus from its terminals along EDSA Cubao. These ply every hour between Cubao or Buendia in Manila and Puerto Galera pier. The Sikat tourist service operates one trip per day and is convenient for people staying in Manila close to Ermita.

• JAM transit, DLTB and Sikat tourist service, ☏ +63 2-7089628. Puerto Galera is easily accessible from areas around Manila. Most tourists prefer to take a JAM transit, or DLTB bus from its terminals along EDSA Cubao. These ply every hour between Cubao or Buendia in Manila and Puerto Galera pier. The Sikat tourist service operates one trip per day and is convenient for people staying in Manila close to Ermita. JAM transit, DLTB and Sikat tourist service, ☏ +63 2-7089628. Buses run every hour from the Manila (Quezon city) Cubao bus terminal. JAM transit is among the popular bus services. DLTB too runs buses every about 2 hours. These cost about ₱200 per trip. Sikat leaves at 6:00AM daily from the Citystate Tower Hotel on Mabini Street, Ermita, Manila. The round trip ticket costs ₱1550 and includes both bus and ferry to either Puerto Galera. It reaches Puerto Galera at 11AM. 
• PITX, ☏ +63 917-8197401, [email protected]. For independent travelers, you can reach Batangas Pier from the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX). From Manila’s international airport (NAIA), you can take a bus or simply get a taxi from anywhere in the city and ask for PITX. Once at PITX, you will find a large terminal with electronic boards and multiple transport options. Look for buses heading to Batangas Pier, purchase a ticket, and board the next available departure. Travel time varies depending on traffic but generally takes around 2–3 hours. 
• Buendia Bus Station, Buendia Avenue. Another way to reach Batangas Pier is by taking a bus from Buendia Bus Station. This is an older bus terminal, and travelers may need to ask staff or vendors for directions to the correct bus, as signage can be limited. However, once you ask, someone will guide you directly to the right bus. Unlike PITX, at Buendia Bus Station, tickets are purchased directly on the bus. More buses operate from this station compared to PITX, making it a good alternative, especially during peak travel hours. 

Scheduled ferries arrive at Puerto Galera's Balatero Port, primarily from Batangas City, as well as from other islands. At the Batangas pier, ignore all the porters and touts, and walk past them to the ticketing area. The terminal now has multiple ticket windows and three waiting halls.

• Fast ferries – around ₱600, travel time approximately 1 hour.

• Roro ferries (Roll-on/Roll-off) – can transport vehicles, cost about ₱400 per passenger, travel time over 2 hours (as of 2024).

Passengers must also pay a separate terminal fee (usually ₱30-50) before entering the boarding area.

Most ferries now dock at Balatero Port, from where travelers can continue to Sabang (a popular scuba diving destination) or White Beach, known for its lively atmosphere, restaurants, and bars.

Crossing the waters between Batangas Port and White Beach can be a thrill by itself, especially during the meeting of the tides when the sea can be quite rough. The first half of the journey is smooth. However, the boatmen know these waters very well, so there is no need to be hysterical. Buy a round trip ferry ticket to avoid a fully booked ferry on your return. Returning on a Sunday without reserving a ticket can leave you stranded with no options from Muelle or Balatero. You will have to go to Calapan to return to Batangas.

From Boracay you can go with the 2GO ferry to Batangas City and then from Batangas City a ferry to Puerto Galera/Sabang Beach, or a ferry from Boracay to Roxas then minivan to Puerto Galera.

Puerto Galera port is in a sheltered bay which serves as a "hurricane hole" for yachts, and many cruisers come for the diving or other attractions as well. There are usually twenty or so yachts in the harbor, mostly sailboats.

Ferries arrive at Balatero Port, located about 10-15 minutes from White Beach and 20-30 minutes from Sabang. From Balatero Port, transportation options include:

• To White Beach: A tricycle or tuk-tuk ride costs around ₱200.
• To Sabang: A tricycle ride costs at least ₱400, depending on negotiation and demand.

Within the town or either beach area (White Beach or Sabang), walking is the usual means of transport; distances are short and the terrain reasonably level. Walking from town to either beach is possible, but rarely done; the roads are steep, winding and not entirely safe for pedestrians. It takes about an hour to cover the 5 km (3 miles).

At the harbor you will find lots of people trying to get you to ride with their tricycle; this is the usual way to get to either beach. The official rate from the mayor's office is ₱25 per person; drivers may ask for anything up to about ₱250 per trike but can usually be bargained down to about ₱50 per person. You may have to share the ride with 3-4 people, or pay something like ₱150 to get a trike to yourself.

At Muelle Port, there is a jeepney to Sabang town for ₱20 at the main road. After dark, the rates are higher (for example, instead of ₱20 you pay ₱50). Some hotels can arrange a free fastcraft ferry shuttle to White Beach, like Minolo Shipping Lines.

In Sabang there are 3 motorcycle rental providers. For ₱500 you can rent a scooter for the whole day. You have to mind the local traffic rules, of course.

• Beaches: White Beach is a good alternative to Boracay if you do not have much money or time. Other beaches include Talipanan Beach, Bayanan Beach, Haligi Beach, Long Beach, Panlilio Beach, Coco Beach, La Laguna Beach, Encenada Beach, Bulabod Beach, Boquete Island, and San Antonio Island. About 32 beaches are found around Puerto Galera, offering plenty of choices for visitors. For island hopping, you can go to Minolo Port, where boat tours are available for ₱400 per person. These tours include visits to three beaches of your choice, allowing you to explore some of the best and more secluded spots in the area.
• Lush Forests: The forests of Puerto Galera are home to many flora such as orchids, birds and fauna such as orchids and waterfalls.
• 13.450147120.9911011 Tamaraw Falls (15 km from Puerto Galera on the road to Calapan). A scenic multi-tiered waterfall cascading into natural pools. The lower pool, located under a bridge, offers a refreshing swim in cool mountain water. A few meters upstream, visitors can enjoy stronger waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery. Nearby, a small beach area can be found along the road. Entrance fee applies. 
• 13.520437120.9542242 Coral Garden (near Batangas Channel, accessible by boat). One of the best snorkeling and freediving spots in Puerto Galera, known for its vibrant coral formations and diverse marine life. The shallow waters are home to colorful reef fish, sea turtles, and occasional rays. The area is part of a marine sanctuary, ensuring excellent underwater visibility and a well-preserved ecosystem. Best explored with a guided boat tour. Entrance fee may apply for snorkeling tours. 
• 13.495138120.8881323 Mangyan Village (near Talipanan Beach, accessible by tricycle or motorbike). Mangyan are the indigenous people of Mindoro, known for their distinct culture and traditions. Many Mangyan communities strive to preserve their way of life, avoiding outside influences. Visitors can learn about their customs, traditional crafts, and way of life. A reliable guide is recommended for visiting. Please be respectful and follow local customs. Donations appreciated. 
• 13.502588120.9530474 Muelle Bay. A beautiful hidden hideout with a natural harbor where most ferries and boats dock. The bay is lined with shops, bars, and restaurants, making it a great spot to enjoy the scenic waterfront views while having lunch or a romantic dinner. At sunset, keep an eye on the sky—giant flying foxes (fruit bats) emerge from the nearby mangrove forest and take flight in search of food, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. 
• 13.494419120.8884335 Talipanan Falls (a short trek from Talipanan Beach through a forested trail). A small but scenic waterfall hidden in the lush jungle near Talipanan Beach. The trail to the falls passes through Mangyan Village, where visitors can learn about indigenous culture. The falls have a refreshing natural pool, perfect for cooling off after the hike. Entrance fee may apply. 
• 13.485898120.9055376 Aninuan Falls (a short trek from Aninuan). A secluded waterfall in the Aninuan area, offering a tranquil retreat surrounded by lush greenery. The trek to the falls takes visitors through a scenic jungle path with river crossings. The natural pool at the base of the waterfall provides a refreshing spot for swimming and relaxation. Entrance fee may apply. 
• 13.433637120.9742667 Tukuran Falls, San Teodoro (about 12 km from Puerto Galera). Also known as Hidden Paradise, these multi-tiered waterfalls cascade into natural pools surrounded by lush jungle. Visitors can swim in the cool, clear water or relax in the peaceful environment. The journey includes a trek through rice fields, river crossings, and tropical forest, making it an adventure in itself. Entrance fee may apply. 

Accredited masseuses can give you massage right on the beach. To prevent hanky-panky, in-room massage, other than in an especially designated room at the hotel, is prohibited. Aside from scuba diving, golf is also another activity, a golf course is available.

Most visitors to Puerto Galera are attracted by the excellent scuba diving provided by the protected marine sanctuary. There are a number of dive shops in the area (estimated at around 35) that provide access to a macro (i.e., small life) heaven. The dive sites that feature a large variety of small sea life with the occasional shark or turtle. Several sites are drift dives and often turn into (strong) current dives with the best diving (for coral and small life) being at 20 m (60 feet). Almost all of the dive sites are within a 10-minute boat ride of Sabang which allows you to spend your surface interval on the shore and it also allows most shops to offer as many as four dive trips (single tank) each day. Prices for a single dive are US$26-32 for a single tank dive, including equipment rental, boat and dive guide, with discounts for more dives and if you have your own equipment.

• 13.525036120.9674211 Big La Laguna Beach Resorts, ☏ +63 920 416 0502, [email protected]. Big La Laguna Beach Resorts operate two resorts in Big Lalaguna Bay – Campbell's Beach Resort and Scandi Divers Resort. These resorts offer a variety of beachfront accommodations, from cozy rooms to spacious three-bedroom suites. The area is known for its quiet atmosphere, pristine beach, and excellent snorkeling and diving spots. Scandi Divers Resort features a professional dive center offering PADI dive courses from beginner to instructor level. Guests can also enjoy the Scandi Skybar, which provides a terrace view of the ocean. Varies by accommodation type. 
• 13.521053120.9736852 Frontier Scuba, ☏ +63 917 540 8410, [email protected]. 5-star instructor training center operated by Rick Kirkham, one of the most experienced instructors in the Philippines. They offer a full range of recreational and technical diving courses, including PADI Open Water, PADI Divemaster, SDI Instructor courses, and TDI technical diving up to Advanced Trimix and Advanced Wreck. The dive center provides Nitrox, Trimix, rebreather support, and equipment rental. Guests can also enjoy the attached Hemingway's restaurant. Varies by course and package. 
• 13.50249120.9534943 Badladz Adventure Divers, ☏ +63 906 221 4972, [email protected]. A small dive shop known for its friendly instructors and personalized service. They offer PADI courses from beginner to Assistant Instructor level, as well as snorkeling trips, kayak rentals, and beach BBQ experiences. 
• 13.503727120.8995464 FreeDive School, Aninuan, [email protected]. Freediving courses ranging from beginner to instructor levels, including specialized training in breath-hold techniques, deep freediving, and safety protocols. Also offers accommodation. 

• 13.478446120.9130235 Ponderosa Golf Club. A picturesque 9-hole golf course perched in the hills, offering panoramic views of Puerto Galera and the surrounding coastline. Hiking to Ponderosa Golf Club from White Beach takes about an hour, with an uphill trail. The club also features a restaurant and viewing deck. Green fees apply. 
• 13.502617120.8992126 Stairway Foundation. An international NGO focused on helping street children and raising awareness about child protection issues. The foundation uses creative arts, education, and advocacy programs to support vulnerable youth. Visitors can tour the center, learn about their initiatives, and support their work. Donations appreciated. 
• 13.500884120.9455197 Extreme Sports Puerto Galera. An adventure sports park offering a variety of high-adrenaline activities, including ATV rides, paintball, archery, airsoft, and target shooting. A great spot for thrill-seekers looking for an alternative to beach activities in Puerto Galera. Varies by activity. 

There are multiple ATMs are available in Puerto Galera and White Beach, accepting both local and international cards. Most ATMs allow a maximum withdrawal of ₱10,000 per transaction, with a ₱250 fee for overseas transactions. Availability of cash may vary, especially during peak tourist season. Below is a list of ATMs in the area:

• 13.505912120.9038331 Euronet Worldwide ATM (on the main strip of White Beach). 24/7. One of the few ATMs on White Beach that accepts international cards. Cash withdrawal fees apply, and the machine may run out of cash during peak tourist season. Transaction fees apply for international cards. 
• 13.501632120.9549652 Land Bank ATM (near the municipal area in Puerto Galera). 24/7. A reliable ATM in Puerto Galera town, operated by Land Bank. Accepts most local and international cards. Withdrawal limits and fees may apply. Transaction fees apply for international cards. 
• 13.501893120.9536283 PNB Savings Bank ATMs (at PNB Savings Bank in Puerto Galera). 24/7. Two ATMs available at this location, operated by PNB Savings Bank. Accepts both local and international cards. Recommended for reliable cash withdrawals, though machines may run out of cash during peak season. Transaction fees apply for international cards. 
• 13.520301120.9764334 JE and G Express Payment Center ATM (near JE and G Express Payment Center in Puerto Galera). 24/7. A convenient ATM option in Puerto Galera, accepting both local and international cards. Located near the payment center, making it a useful stop for cash withdrawals and other transactions. Transaction fees apply for international cards. 

• 13.499492120.9545335 Candava Supermarket. A local supermarket offering a variety of groceries, fresh produce, household goods, and snacks. 
• 13.495812120.9548136 HL Supermarket Golden Conway Holding Inc. A local supermarket offering a variety of groceries, fresh produce, beverages, and household essentials. 
• 13.499714120.9545267 7-Eleven. A convenient 24/7 store offering snacks, drinks, basic groceries, and essential items. A reliable option for quick bites, cold beverages, and travel necessities. 
• 13.500127120.9556748 Puerto Galera Public Market. A bustling local market offering fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, meats, and a variety of local goods. 
• 13.498607120.9552289 Mercury Drug. A well-known pharmacy chain in the Philippines, offering a wide range of prescription and over-the-counter medicines, personal care products, and medical supplies. 
• 13.498524120.95495410 Mr.DIY. A popular hardware and home improvement store offering a wide selection of household items, tools, stationery, toys, and personal care products at affordable prices. 
• 13.500599120.95452811 Cebuana Lhuillier. Offers currency exchange services. Also provides money remittances, pawnshop services, bill payments, and insurance products. More currency exchange points in Sabang. 

There are many restaurants near Muelle Pier, Puerto Galera and Sabang Beach.

• 13.505948120.9037871 Foodtrip sa Galera, White Beach. 
• 13.502929120.899222 Tamarind Bar & Restaurant, ☏ +63 956 693 4888. This restaurant by the sea side has a wooden roof. Food options are similar to typical bar & grill restaurants. From ₱400. (updated Apr 2023)
• 13.508271120.9671193 Not Just Coffee. A stylish café offering specialty coffee, fresh pastries, and a cozy atmosphere, with an ocean view. (updated Mar 2025)
• 13.50205120.9039084 IL Capo Smoke Haus. A barbecue and smokehouse-style restaurant offering grilled meats, smoked specialties, and Filipino-American fusion dishes. 
• 13.498548120.897255 Izakaya Abe Chang (居酒屋アベちゃん). A Japanese izakaya-style restaurant serving authentic sushi, sashimi, grilled skewers, and ramen. 
• 13.504561120.9159676 Arcobaleno Pizza. A casual Italian restaurant specializing in handmade pizzas, fresh pasta, and classic Italian dishes. 
• 13.504314120.9085717 Mai Pho Chaolong House. A casual Vietnamese eatery specializing in pho, chaolong (Vietnamese beef stew), and bánh mì. 
• 13.502042120.9527388 Robby's Cafeteria Steakhouse. A casual steakhouse and cafeteria-style restaurant known for its grilled steaks, sizzling plates, and hearty Filipino dishes. The restaurant also serves pizza and features a small shop selling a wide selection of cheeses, cold cuts, and other imported goods. 

Sabang beach at night is famous for girly bars that tend to close just as quickly as they pop up. It also has billiard rooms and discos where you can party into the wee hours of the morning.

• 13.52197120.9748321 Bikini Floating Bar. enjoy a beer on a boat off the coast of Sabang. 
• 13.502565120.9045542 Pirata (on White Beach). A sports bar and restaurant, offering cold drinks, international cuisine, and live sports screenings. A roadside venue attracting both locals and travelers. 

Puerto Galera has numerous hotels and resorts that tourists can choose from. Tourists will also find many cheap bungalows to stay on white beach. They cost ₱500-1500 a night; you can get better rates during week days.

• 13.502956120.8991851 Aninuan Beach Resort, Aninuan, ☏ +63 920 931 8946, +63 920 931 8924. A beachfront resort offering various accommodation options in a quiet and relaxing atmosphere away from the crowds. US$100. 
• 13.501891120.954122 Buri Beach Resort and Spa. A beachfront resort offering private villas, a full-service spa, and an infinity pool. The resort is only accessible by boat. Varies by season. 
• 13.502929120.899223 Tamaraw Beach Resort, ☏ +63 43 6392234. The owners are building a large conference center 5 meters from the main accommodation block and bungalows. On the other side 2 meters away the Sunset at Aninuan hotel is building a 3-floor extension. The access from the road to the beach is now severely restricted and only a small path remains for foot traffic. Best rates on official website start at ₱2000. 

• 13.502813120.947014 Bahay Isla Inn & Hostel, #1 Baclayan Road corner Nautical Highway, ☏ +63 977 816 1856. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon. A long-running family-managed budget inn and hostel, set in a quiet compound slightly elevated from the street. The property features small garden areas, an outdoor plunge pool. Offers private rooms (double, deluxe, family) and dormitory beds. On-site bistro and bar serve meals and drinks. Free Wi-Fi and parking available Dorm bed around ₱500, private rooms ₱1200-1800. 
• 13.50249120.9534945 Badladz Adventure Resort, Muelle Pier (at the quiet end of the main tourist pier), ☏ +63 919-577-2823, [email protected]. Each room comes with A/C, hot water, cable TV and an overview over the yachts at Puerto Galera Bay. There's free Wi-Fi. A diveshop is part of the resort. From ₱990. 

Palangan is a barangay between PG town and Sabang, at the base of the peninsula that has Sabang at the tip.

• 13.506476120.970616 Blue Crystal Beach Resort, Palangan (10 minutes from Muelle Piera), ☏ +63 43-287-3144. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon. Air-conditioned rooms and suites that face their private beach are equipped with bath and shower, cable TV, mini-bar and refrigerator, private terrace, and Wi-Fi. The resort has a scuba diving center, swimming pool and offers a wide range of day trips by boat and jeepney. ₱995 per person per night for double occupancy and ₱895 per person per night for multiple occupancy. 

PG has no hospital, but there is an urgent care clinic toward the south end of town; there is a turn-off with a sign a bit south of the bus station.

• Immigration Office (in Calapan). M-F 8AM-5PM. Handles most visa-related services, including extensions. Xerox services are available nearby, often required for visa applications. 

• Calapan
• Roxas
• Batangas
• Jeepney to Calapan (1 hr 15 min) leaves from the end of the main road several times daily. Air conditioned mini vans now operate also for the same price and have fewer stops. From Calapan you can take a minivan (3 hr) to Roxas. To get to Calapan from Balatero (west side of PG), take a tricycle (₱25 per person) to Bayan Jeepney Terminal near the Puerto Galera wet market. ₱80 to the Calapan City Center and 100php to the Calapan Pier. AC minivans also travel this route and the price is the same as the jeepney. 60-90 minutes. If all the ferries are fully booked at Balatero port, this is the next option to get a ferry to Batangas. Updated June 2019.

• Jeepney/tricycle to Balatero where a boat, M/S Caribbean, leaves daily at 10AM for Abras de Llog, ₱180 one-way, ₱10 terminal fee. Easy entry into Mindoro Occidental. An easier and cheaper option compared to chartering your own pumpboat or going to Abras via Batangas.