On sunny days, Sabang Beach on the western coast of Palawan beckons with dreams of an untouched tropical paradise. An expanse of golden sand stretches out, and the sea shimmers in shades of teal and turquoise, deepening to cerulean and cobalt blue as it meets the sky. The far end of the beach is bordered by sheer limestone cliffs, their somber charcoal gray broken up by pockets of lush green plants. Although Sabang is the jump-off point for the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (30 minutes away by banca), there’s hardly anyone on the beach. It’s a perfect example of why the province of Palawan is nicknamed the Philippines’ “last frontier.”
While most travelers base themselves in Puerto Princesa City (just 90 minutes away from Sabang), there’s a compelling argument to be made for vacationing on Sabang Beach. It’s ideal for those who want a refreshing change from the usual crowded beaches of Boracay, Bohol, and Cebu. And for today’s discerning travelers who enjoy nature and adventure by day, but prefer air-conditioned rooms and a comfortable bed at night, there’s a Four Points by Sheraton hotel by the beach.
Four Points by Sheraton is one of the 30-plus hotel brands of the renowned Marriott International group. The hotel in Palawan offers the essential amenities that a traveler might seek in a luxury resort. All the rooms are just steps from the beach, with a tech-friendly workspace, complimentary Wi-Fi, and an ambiance that
soothes into instant relaxation after a day of adventuring. The beds, of course, are signature Four Points by Sheraton Comfort Beds.
The resort effectively uses its 5.25-hectare property by providing spacious areas for leisure and relaxation. Restful lounge areas dot the premises; there’s a 1,367 sq.m. pool with a swim-up bar, an on-premise spa, a 24-hour fitness center, and for parents who may need “me time,” the hotel offers Cub’s Club— a playroom with an indoor playground, supervised activities, and a safe environment for children to spend a few hours at play.
Recognizing its unique position of being situated in 22,000 hectares of marine protected area, the resort champions sustainability and actively collaborates with the community to support the local economy. It has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. The resort is fully powered by solar energy, with 30% generated from its own solar panels and the remaining sourced from Sabang Renewable Energy Corporation (SREC), ensuring a sustainable and eco-friendly energy supply. It has a materials recovery facility, and a rainwater catchment system, and operates its water treatment facility. The staff’s uniforms come from Rurungan sa Tubod Foundation which teaches women from impoverished areas how to weave.
Additionally, Evolution, the all-day dining and buffet restaurant, uses local produce sourced from the resort’s organic garden, and its partner, Sheridan Organic Farm. Guests can book a tour and farm-to-table lunch for a chance to savor truly fresh and organic cuisine. Some guests may even opt to do a quick immersion in farm life by trying out plowing a rice field or harvesting vegetables. Many leave with a deeper respect for farmers and the relationship between man and nature.
With the all-important “where can we take you” covered, let’s talk about “what to do.” The Four Points Palawan works with community organizations that steward the various eco-tourism sites in the area to organize tours that allow guests to immerse themselves in the local culture and natural beauty.
The beach adjacent to the resort is a nesting haven for olive ridley and green sea turtles, and if a visit is timed just right there’s the chance to watch the eggs hatching. The Mangrove Paddleboat Tour is engaging and educational as visitors glide through a 1.2-kilometer stretch of mangrove waterways, and community guides share insights about the local ecosystem. Keen observers may spot monitor lizards sunning themselves on rocks, the Palawan Hornbill and other birds, snakes curled up on branches, and more. The Sabang Waterfall is 50 feet high and a 20-minute walk along the beach from the wharf. Tumbling over rocks and boulders, the water crashes into a rock pool on the beach. For an adrenaline rush, there’s the Puerto Princesa Sabang X Zipline.
Soaring 150 feet high and stretching 800 meters long, it offers breathtaking views of Sabang Beach. Adventure seekers will enjoy Ugong Rock. The limestone rock formation is hollow inside and offers the opportunity for a caving and spelunking adventure. Or there’s the Sabang Jungle Trail, a 5-kilometer trek through a limestone karst forest alive with wildlife, beautiful dipterocarp trees, and small caves. The best thing about all of these activities is that they’re less than an hour from the Four Points Palawan, leaving enough time for sunning on the beach or lounging by the pool.
To secure the Best Available Rates and special room packages, book rooms directly through the hotel or its website (www.fourpointspalawan.com). The room rates in this platform offer exclusive and highly competitive rates over other websites. Reservations may also be made through e-mail [email protected] or by calling (048) 550 9000.