El Nido, located in northern Palawan, is one of the most beautiful island destinations in the Philippines. The area is well known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons, white-sand beaches, and world-class dive sites. Many travelers even compare it to places like Ha Long Bay and Phuket, but El Nido has a more peaceful and untouched atmosphere.
Additionally, the region offers a wide range of island-hopping tours, each showcasing unique landscapes, hidden beaches, and scenic lagoons. Because of this, El Nido has become a bucket-list destination for adventure seekers and beach lovers from around the world.
This guide covers everything you need to know before visiting, including the best beaches and lagoons, where to stay, and the most important costs and travel tips.
⭐ How To Get To El Nido
1. From Manila
- Direct flights to Lio Airport (AirSwift) – fastest & easiest
- Fly to Puerto Princesa → van to El Nido (5–6 hours)
2. From Cebu
- Direct flights (seasonal and limited)
3. From Coron
- Fast ferry (3–4 hours)
- In addition, small domestic flights operate depending on weather conditions.
⭐ Island Hopping Tours in El Nido
El Nido has four main island-hopping tours: A, B, C, and D.
Each tour focuses on different lagoons, beaches, caves, and snorkeling spots.
🔵 Tour A – The Lagoon Tour (Most Popular)
This is the most famous tour in El Nido and the one most travelers start with.
Highlights:
- Big Lagoon – emerald water & towering cliffs
- Small Lagoon – kayak through a narrow entrance
- Secret Lagoon – hidden pool through a rock gap
- Shimizu Island – snorkeling
- Seven Commandos Beach – coconut drinks & swimming
Why choose Tour A:
It offers the most iconic and photogenic spots in El Nido.
Additionally, it’s beginner-friendly and good for families.
🟠 Tour B – The Cave & Sandbar Tour
Tour B is a mix of caves, sandbars, and quiet snorkeling areas.
Highlights:
- Snake Island – long sandbar
- Cathedral Cave
- Cudugnon Cave
- Pinagbuyutan Island – scenic cliffs
- Entalula Beach
Why choose Tour B:
More relaxed, less crowded, and great for travelers who want quieter beaches.
🔴 Tour C – The Adventure Tour (Best Views)
Tour C offers dramatic cliffs, remote beaches, and impressive viewpoints.
Highlights:
- Hidden Beach – secretly tucked behind limestone walls
- Secret Beach – requires swimming through a small opening
- Matinloc Shrine – famous viewpoint
- Talisay Beach – lunch spot
- Helicopter Island
Why choose Tour C:
It has the best viewpoints and some of the most unique locations in Palawan.
🟢 Tour D – The Beach Tour (Most Relaxed)
Tour D focuses on Cadlao Island and its peaceful beaches.
Highlights:
- Paradise Beach
- Nat-Nat Beach
- Bucal Beach
- Cadlao Lagoon
Why choose Tour D:
Great if you want a slow, relaxing day with fewer crowds.
⭐ Best Things To Do in El Nido (Outside Tours)
1. Nacpan Beach
A 4-km golden-sand paradise with palm trees and calm waves.
Moreover, it’s one of the best sunset spots in Palawan.
2. Las Cabanas Beach
Perfect for sunset, coffee shops, and zip-lining to Depeldet Island.
3. Taraw Cliff Canopy Walk
Safe & guided walkway offering stunning town views.
Additionally, it’s easier than the original Taraw Cliff climb.
4. Kayaking to Papaya Beach
A fun DIY activity — calm water, great for beginners.
⭐ Where To Stay in El Nido
Budget
- Spin Designer Hostel
- Happiness Hostel
Mid-Range
- El Nido Garden Resort
- Lagùn Hotel
Luxury
- Cauayan Island Resort
- Matinloc Resort
- Lihim Resorts
Additionally, staying near Lio Beach is quieter and more comfortable.
⭐ Travel Costs
| Expense | Price |
|---|---|
| Island Tours (A/C) | $25–$30 |
| Motorbike Rental | $10–$12/day |
| Meals | $4–$8 |
| Hotels | $25–$150/night |
| Environmental Fee | ~$3 |
Therefore, El Nido is affordable for most travelers.
⭐ Best Time To Visit
- Dry Season: December–May (best weather)
- Peak Season: December–March
- Avoid: July–September (typhoons)
In addition, early morning tours have fewer crowds and better lighting.
⭐ El Nido Map (Easy Overview)
⭐ Tips for Visiting El Nido
- Book Tour A & C early
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen
- Carry a waterproof dry bag
- Wear aqua shoes (sharp rocks)
- Charge drones fully — lagoons are windy
- Withdraw cash beforehand (ATMs unreliable)
⭐ FAQ
Is El Nido safe?
Yes. It’s tourist-friendly and well-regulated. However, always follow safety rules on boats.
How many days do you need?
3–5 days is ideal.
As a result, you can explore multiple lagoon and beach tours.
Which tour is the best?
Tour A is the most iconic; Tour C has the best views.
External Resource:
For official travel updates, visit the Philippines Department of Tourism.