Sunset Colors

The place is made for switching off. You can hear the waves from your beachside accommodation, and the sea views stretch all around. We were greeted warmly, and our clean, roomy room had a lovely view from the chairs outside. The warm, rather than hot, shower was just right in the heat. A boat transfer is included, but you have to walk through the water to shore, so bring swim shorts. There are rocks on the beach, so water shoes are useful. We saw warnings about jellyfish, though we didn't spot any, and the sea itself was lovely and warm. Food choices nearby are limited, but the restaurant serves very good food with enough variety for a few days. The staff were cheerful, attentive, and friendly. Wi-Fi in the common areas reached our room, number 1, and my Smart SIM also had a good signal. Electricity was available all day and night, though there aren't many sockets, so I'd bring a power bank. Bring a book and let the stress fade. It's a special spot for a proper rest, and I'd happily come back.

We were staying at the resort next door and came here for food a few times. It's a pretty place, well situated, and usually has a nice feel to it. The food and service were both okay, nothing especially good or bad. We didn't stay overnight, so can't speak to the accommodation. The downside was the electronic party music, blasting every day from afternoon through late evening. It really spoils the relaxed atmosphere.

The room changes and the host's conduct became the hardest part of our first visit to Port Barton. After the breakfast disagreement, we felt so uncomfortable, unwelcome, and unsafe that we stopped spending money at the hotel, restaurant, or bar, and left a day early. I wouldn't recommend this place, especially to first-time visitors who need clear communication and respectful treatment. We had booked in August and were initially glad when Luiz got in touch with directions and transfer help. But soon afterward he proposed we cancel our Booking.com booking and pay him directly for a “better rate.” We'd already paid in full and live on the other side of the world, so we declined for safety reasons. He then said our booked room was unavailable, offering it for the first night only and a different room after that. Our dates were January 1-4, a very busy period, and cancelling didn't feel like a real option, so we accepted despite the disruption. We'd also asked about a transfer from Puerto Princesa because the journey takes 2-3 hours. After an initial discussion, communication stopped until Luiz contacted us the day before arrival, too late to arrange it. We made our own transport plans. No one warned us that the road to the property was difficult and unsafe without a 4x4. Our tuk-tuk ride over the rough road took about 40 minutes. It was uncomfortable and unexpected, but we didn't complain. At breakfast the next morning, we politely asked whether it was included in our booking. Luiz became rude and antagonistic. My partner tried to explain calmly; Luiz said we had to pay because we'd turned down his “better rate” offer. We agreed to pay without arguing. Even so, he came back more aggressive in his words and behaviour. My partner said the attitude was unacceptable given the room changes and other inconvenience. Luiz offered no explanation, disengaged, and walked away. We were moved into a room above the restaurant. When food was being cooked, strong smells filled the room and made staying there very uncomfortable. With no real alternative, we accepted that too. Poor communication, last-minute changes, and unprofessional behaviour overshadowed what should have been a memorable first trip to Port Barton.

We stayed next door at “prince” John, where the food, service, and prices were terrible. At Sunset Colors, the employees were so kind and friendly, and served fresh, delicious food with big smiles at a fair price. We ate every meal there during our stay and enjoyed it a lot. Wish we'd booked there.