Brooke's Point Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, eat, and experience in Brooke's Point, Palawan. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Brooke’s Point

Located in the southern part of Palawan, Brooke’s Point is a hidden gem that offers a unique travel experience to its visitors. The town is named in honor of Sir James Brooke, the first white Rajah of Sarawak, who helped establish peace and stability in the area. Brooke’s Point may not be as popular as El Nido or Coron, but it is rich in culture, history, and natural wonders that are waiting to be explored.

List of Places to Visit in Brooke’s Point

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Brooke’s Point Museum - This museum showcases the rich history and culture of Brooke’s Point. It houses various artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the town from pre-colonial times until today.

Natural Attractions of Brooke’s Point: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mainit Hot Springs - Located at the foot of Mount Matalingahan, the Mainit Hot Springs is a natural wonder that offers a relaxing dip in a hot pool amidst a scenic rainforest setting.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Brooke’s Point

  • Mount Matalingahan - This is the highest peak in Palawan and a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts. The trail offers a challenging trek, but the stunning panoramic view at the summit is worth the effort.

Best Things to Do in Brooke’s Point: Activities and Tours

  • Island Hopping Tour - Brooke’s Point is surrounded by several islands that offer pristine beaches, clear water, and diverse marine life. An island hopping tour is a great way to explore these hidden gems and enjoy a day of swimming, snorkeling, and beach hopping.

Week-Long Itinerary for Brooke’s Point

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Brooke’s Point Museum and explore the town center
Day 2 Hike Mount Matalingahan
Day 3-4 Island hopping tour and beach activities
Day 5 Take a dip at Mainit Hot Springs
Day 6-7 Relax and unwind at a beachfront resort or do more activities of your choice

Food and Drink Scene of Brooke’s Point

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kinilaw - This is a Filipino dish that is similar to ceviche. It is made with raw fish, vinegar, onion, chili pepper, and ginger. The acidity of the vinegar “cooks” the fish, and it is served cold.

Local Beverages

  • Coconut Wine - This is a traditional Filipino drink made from fermented coconut sap. It has a sweet taste and is often served in bamboo tubes.

Where to Stay in Brooke’s Point: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Ginazels Pension House - This is a budget-friendly option that offers clean rooms and basic amenities. It is centrally located and offers easy access to the town center and tourist attractions.

What to Buy in Brooke’s Point: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Palawan Cashew Nuts - Palawan is known for its delicious cashew nuts that are roasted to perfection. These make great souvenirs and gifts for friends and family.

Local Culture and Customs of Brooke’s Point

  • Respect for Elders - In Filipino culture, elders are highly respected and valued. It is important to show proper respect and deference to them.

Best Time to Visit Brooke’s Point

The best time to visit Brooke’s Point is from November to May when the weather is dry and sunny. This period is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, island hopping, and beach activities. June to October is the rainy season, and some tourist attractions may be closed due to bad weather.

Do’s and Don’ts of Brooke’s Point

Do:

  • Respect local customs and cultural practices.
  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites.
  • Carry small bills for purchases and tips.

Don’t:

  • Take pictures or videos of people without their permission.
  • Touch or take anything from religious sites.
  • Worry about tipping in most places, as it is not expected.

Safety and Health

Safety in Brooke’s Point

Brooke’s Point is relatively safe, but tourists should always practice common sense and take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and valuables and use reliable transportation services.

Health in Brooke’s Point

Tourists should ensure that they have up-to-date vaccinations for common diseases such as hepatitis A and B, typhoid fever, and tetanus. It is also advisable to bring insect repellant and sunscreen to protect against insect bites and sunburn.

Getting to Brooke’s Point: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Brooke’s Point

The nearest airport to Brooke’s Point is the Puerto Princesa International Airport, which is about 260 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Brooke’s Point

There are several bus companies that offer daily trips from Puerto Princesa to Brooke’s Point. The journey takes about 6-7 hours, and the ticket price ranges from PHP 350-500.

Other Options

There are also private vans and taxis that offer services from Puerto Princesa to Brooke’s Point. These options are more expensive but provide more comfort and flexibility.

How to Get Around in Brooke’s Point

Tricycles and motorcycles are the main modes of transportation in Brooke’s Point. They are cheap and readily available, but tourists should negotiate the fare before getting on.

Where to Go Next from Brooke’s Point: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Puerto Princesa - The capital city of Palawan and a popular tourist destination known for its underground river.
  • Port Barton - A peaceful and less-crowded alternative to El Nido and Coron that offers white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.
  • Sabang - A small fishing village that features the world-renowned Underground River.

Conclusion

Brooke’s Point may be a lesser-known destination in Palawan, but it offers a unique travel experience that combines culture, history, and natural wonders. With this comprehensive travel guide, tourists can plan their trip to Brooke’s Point and discover its hidden gems.