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, 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. It was not until the 1970s and 1980s that the town began to attract attention from both local and international tourists, initially for its diving potential and secluded beaches.

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), the same time zone as Manila and the rest of the country. There is no daylight saving time (DST) in the Philippines. Visitors arriving from countries with large time differences should plan for jet lag accordingly, especially if they intend to dive or participate in physical activities soon after arrival.

Puerto Galera operates on a 220V, 60Hz power supply, using Type A, B, and C electrical outlets. Travelers from countries with 110V systems (such as the US or Japan) may need a voltage converter for certain devices.

While electricity is generally stable, occasional brownouts or brief outages can occur, particularly during typhoon season or high-demand periods. Most hotels, dive resorts, and restaurants are equipped with backup generators to ensure uninterrupted service.

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.

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.
• 13.520437120.9542241 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. 
• 13.502588120.9530472 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. 
• 13.502588120.9530473 Muelle Pier (in the town center). A scenic harbor area with a small promenade lined with cafés and restaurants, where visitors can see flying foxes (giant fruit bats) emerge from the nearby mangrove forest as they begin their evening search for food. Free. 
• 13.433637120.9742664 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. 
• 13.450147120.9911015 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. 

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.

• 13.530065120.9503941 Underwater Cave (accessible by boat). A underwater cave, known for its rock formations and marine life. Visitors can explore hidden chambers and natural rock pools. Varies by boat rental. 
• 13.50249120.9534942 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. 

• 13.500884120.9455193 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:

• 13.501632120.9549651 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. 
• 13.501893120.9536282 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. 

• 13.499492120.9545333 Candava Supermarket. A local supermarket offering a variety of groceries, fresh produce, household goods, and snacks. 
• 13.495812120.9548134 HL Supermarket Golden Conway Holding Inc. A local supermarket offering a variety of groceries, fresh produce, beverages, and household essentials. 
• 13.499714120.9545265 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. 
• 13.500127120.9556746 Puerto Galera Public Market. A bustling local market offering fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, meats, and a variety of local goods. 
• 13.498607120.9552287 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. 
• 13.498524120.9549548 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. 
• 13.500599120.9545289 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.

• 13.502042120.9527381 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. 

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.

• 13.501891120.954121 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. 

• 13.502813120.947012 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. 
• 13.50249120.9534943 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. 

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. 

Puerto Galera has a tropical climate with two main seasons: dry (November to May) and wet (June to October). The best time to visit is during the dry season, when the sea is calm and visibility is excellent for diving and snorkeling. Occasional typhoons may affect the area between July and September.

Basic healthcare is available in town, including pharmacies and small clinics. It's recommended to bring a personal medical kit, especially when traveling to remote areas or planning ocean activities.

• Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.
• Bring insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.
• Consider travel insurance that covers water sports.

Respect for local traditions and communities is appreciated. The Mangyan people, who live in the surrounding mountains, are indigenous to the region and should be treated with dignity.

• Dress modestly in town areas (especially outside the beach).
• Always ask permission before photographing locals.
• Avoid loud or disruptive behavior in residential or nature areas.

• 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.