Coconut Garden Island Resort, Cacnipa Island, San Vicente

Updated May 30th, 2009

Not much has changed since my visit in 2005, except that the prices are higher. This beautiful low cost resort is located on Cacnipa Island (also spelt "Cagnipa Island), a 15km or 45 minute boat ride from Port Barton. The owner, Henry, is a Swiss fellow. He runs a lovely resort and is very hospitable. There is an easy trail that leads around and over the island with some stunning seascapes and views of mainland Palawan. On one walk, I saw a native Bearcat which is an endangered mammal.

The cottages are clean and comfortable and start from P570. Good discounts are available if you stay more than one night. The food is good and the staff are wonderful. There is good snorkeling off the beach directly in front of the resort.

During the summer months, Henry spends hours each day raking the beach to clear the pebbles and break up the sand fly nests. He lights smoky fires each night on the beach to keep the surviving sandflies out of the area. I have not been bitten at his resort, so it must work.

You can go directly to Sabang (underground river), Port Barton or El Nido from here. I normally take Henry’s bangka (boat) to Port Barton to arrange the trip the day before I plan to leave.  Alternatively, arrange the trip before you leave Port Barton. The El Nido/Sabang boat service will pass by the island to drop off passengers or pick them up on route. A pick could also be arranged via phone from the resort if you like.

The phone numbers are +63 906-2180917 (Globe) or +63 918-3702395 (Smart). The phone signals can be weak sometimes so the best mode of communications may be through text messages. Email coconutgarden@yahoo.com

1 family room private BR and verandah	3 - 5 people	P1,150 - P1,600
1 cottage with private BR and verandah	2 people	P1,075
1 cottage with private BR and verandah	2 people	P880
1 lodging house with private BR	2 people	P790
1 single room with private BR	1 person	P590