happy life tours el nido

Which is the best El Nido Tour? – A, B or C (a Photo Guide)

By: Author MC Miller

Posted on Last updated: September 23, 2020

Categories Philippines , Travel Blog Post

El Nido is a tropical paradise popular for romantic beach getaways in the Philippines and home to 45 stunning islands which can be reached on a boat tour.

Tour companies all over town advertise A, B & C island hopping tours. We had so many questions.

But which El Nido tour is the best? What are the best islands to visit in El Nido?

So we decided to stay in El Nido a little longer to do all the tours available.

Which El Nido Tour? – A, B or C (a Photo Guide)

We categorised the tours into the Iconic Lagoon Tour, the White Sand Beaches & Caves tour and the Snorkelling tour.

Read on to see what each tour has to offer (with lots of photos) so you can decide which tour to do first!

Or, jump straight to a tour here:

• Tour A – Iconic Lagoon Tour
• Tour B – White Sand Beaches & Caves
• Tour C – Snorkelling Tour
• Which El Nido Tour Operator?
• Bonus: Save $20 off any El Nido Hotel

Tour A – The Iconic Lagoons

When you think of El Nido you probably think of the iconic Lagoons – the big lagoon and the small lagoon. If this is what you are interested in, pick Tour A.

If we had time for only one tour in El Nido, this would be it. The landscapes & the lagoons are something unique to El Nido and something that you simply do not see elsewhere.

The tour costs 1200 PHP per person ($22 USD).

Tips for Tour A:

• If you want to hire a go pro, save it for Tour C, there is not a lot of snorkeling on Tour A;
• Hiring/buying reef shoes is a necessity. You can hire a pair for 100 PHP per person on the beach before you depart;
• El Nido is an ocean friendly town so no plastic water bottles are allowed on the boat. Bring a reuseable water bottle for water.

Small Lagoon

The first destination on the El Nido Tour A is the Small Lagoon. An absolutely stunning turquoise lagoon.

Here, you have the choice of swimming into the Lagoon or kayaking (costs 300 PHP per kayak).

We highly recommend hiring a kayak as it would be extremely tiring swimming and you likely would not get to experience the full extent of the small lagoon.

Next stop was Big Lagoon – our favourite spot in El Nido and the most instagrammable place in El Nido in our opinion.

Like Small Lagoon, you have the choice of swimming into the Lagoon or kayaking (costs 300 PHP per kayak).

If you choose to swim you probably won’t have access to some of the best parts of the lagoon.

Secret Lagoon

After exploring the Big Lagoon, we got to visit the Secret Lagoon.

We loved that Tour A is action packed and includes lots of adventure activities such as crawling through a little hole to get to the beach on the other side.

The water at this lagoon was not as spectacular or impressive as the previous spots we had visited but we loved the adventure of accessing the lagoon.

Shimizu Island

After all this activity it is time for lunch on the beautiful Shimizu Island.

If you have a drone, Shimizu Island is the perfect place for a drone shot.

For lunch, we ate a delicious array of food prepared by the Umi Travel crew consisting of grilled fish, pork, prawns, vegetables and fruit. Yummo!

Seven Commando Beach

The final stop on Tour A is Seven Commando Beach.

This beach is a stunning strip of sand dotted with little beach huts to relax in as well as vendors selling various cool beverages for you to enjoy.

It is possible to use your snorkel at seven commando beach.

Tour B – Outstanding Beaches & Caves

If you are staying a little longer in El Nido, we highly recommend taking Tour B with Umi Travel & Tours – the beaches & caves on Tour B are just outstanding!

If you want to witness beautiful beaches, pick Tour B.

The tour costs 1300 PHP per person ($24 USD).

*** Note: Same Tips for Tour A (above) apply to Tour B.

Entalula Island

The first stop of the day was Entalula Island.

They don’t call Tour B ‘The Beach Tour’ for no reason. Entalula Island is the most beautiful beach with crystal clear water and white sand.

There is also super cool large rock formations on this island.

Snorkeling at Popolkan Island

Tour B is not considered ‘The Snorkeling Tour’ however, we did experience some great snorkeling at our next stop – Popolkan Island.

Snorkeling is absolutely fabulous all over the Philippines – the coral is vibrantly coloured and the fish are plentiful.

Snake Island

After a refreshing snorkel, the next stop of the day is Snake Island.

Luckily, snake island is not called snake island due to the snakes that live on the island but due to the snake shaped sandbar that joins one end of the island to the other.

We were very excited to visit snake island to get a drone shot of the sand bar however, it was high tide when we visited. Regardless, snake island was absolutely stunning and we got to see many orange starfish lining the beach.

A delicious lunch (same as Tour A) is served at snake island.

Cudugnon Cave

We love adventuring so we were happy to hear Tour B included a secret cave – Cudugnon Cave.

The cave involved entering through a tight hole and climbing. The guides at Umi Travel & Tours were quite helpful in this regard and helped us every step of the way through the cave.

An interesting fact about the cave is it was used by the Japanese during WWII to store treasure and was only discovered just recently.

The beach directly next to the cave is beautiful too. The good thing about Tour B is that it is less popular than Tours A & C so fewer people are at each destination.

Pinabuyutan Island

This was our favourite island of the day. It was so picture perfect.

At one end of the island is a palm tree lined beach and the other end of the island is the cutest Instagram-worthy house where a local family live.

If you feel like a drink, vendors kayak to the island to sell beer, soft drinks and ice cream.

Tour C – The Snorkeling Tour

If you love to snorkel then Tour C is the Tour for you. Many debate whether Tour A or C is better in El Nido as these are the two most popular Tours.

We preferred Tour A at a pinch (for the iconic factor) but Tour C proved pretty awesome too! If you have the time we strongly encourage you to do both!

The fish & marine life we saw on Tour C was world class.

The tour costs 1400 PHP per person ($22 USD). The boat travels the furthest away from El Nido on Tour C and hence it is the most expensive tour.

Tips for Tour C:

• If you want to hire/bring a go pro, this is your tour!
• Hiring/buying reef shoes is a necessity. You can hire them for 100 PHP per person.

Matinloc Shrine

Matinloc Shrine is usually a stop on Tour C but the team at Umi Travel & Tours were fabulous – they gave the day trippers the choice whether to visit the shrine or go snorkeling.

The people on the boat choose to skip the shrine and go snorkeling instead. A decision well made as the snorkeling was absolutely unbelievable in this area.

It is also a great place for epic photos on the front of the boat. The crew was very happy to oblige with some ‘couple goal’ shots for us.

Hidden Beach

Hidden Beach was one of the coolest places we saw on Tour C. If you have a drone, get it ready for hidden beach, the shot is most certainly a winner.

From where the boat docks, you must swim in to find the hidden beach located within.

As it was low tide when we arrived it was quite easy and we were able to walk most of the way in to hidden beach.

Helicopter Island

Another fabulous view from the sky is Helicopter Island.

Helicopter Island is also a nice place to go snorkeling off the beach. The best spots for snorkeling were at both ends of the island.

Talisay Beach

During Tour C, lunch was served at Talisay Beach. It wasn’t our favourite beach of the day.

However, it was a very relaxing place to enjoy the delicious lunch prepared.

Secret Beach

Another awesome place to visit during Tour C is secret beach. This would also be an epic drone shot as from the sky it vaguely resembles a love heart. Unfortunately our drone had lost power by this time of the day – bring extra batteries!

Much like Secret Lagoon, you are required to jump out of the boat and access Secret Beach through a little hole.

At high tide, it can be a little more difficult to access and you must dive underwater to enter.

Fortunately we arrived during low tide and accessing the secret beach was relatively easy.

So which is the best El Nido Tour?

That’s a hard question because we loved them all. We definitely recommend doing all three if you have the time but if you have ONLY enough time for one tour we would personally recommend Tour A.

Our Tour Company – Umi Travel & Tours

For all three of our El Nido Tours we went with Umi Travel & Tours. The staff were fun, professional and made sure we were safe the entire time during the 3 day adventure.

We met Sheen from Umi Travel & Tours who informed us that we would really be missing out to choose just one tour. And she was right! All three of the Tours in El Nido are equally fabulous and have different benefits to offer.

We also appreciate that they serve an absolutely delicious lunch consisting of grilled fish, chicken, pork, prawns, grilled vegetables, rich & fruit.

We would highly recommend this company for a tour in El Nido.

Umi Travel and Tours Hama Street, Barangay Masagana Zone 3 El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

You can find more information at  Umi Travel and Tours   website . You can also them on  Facebook &   Twitter , and Instagram .

Where to Stay in El Nido?

We stayed at  Sea Cocoon  during our time in El Nido and loved it. You can read more about our stay and see pictures  here !

There are so many fabulous places to stay in El Nido. Search & book with this Booking.com discount link and save $20 off your stay!

We hope this helped you plan your El Nido island tour! If you have anything to add or need some advice, leave a comment below!

Save this ‘El Nido Tour Guide’ to Pinterest so you can find it again later!

We were guests of Umi Travel & Tours. However, that does not impact our opinion. As always, all opinions are own own.

MC Miller is a travel blogger and writer who has travelled America extensively and abroad to over 80 countries. He founded Couple Travel The World in 2017. Since then, he has spent over 6 years on the road as a full time travel couple. When he not traveling he likes to spend quality time with his partner Bett, planning our their next date or romantic getaway!

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El Nido Tour A Island Hopping Guide: Most Popular Palawan Activity

How to Book an El Nido Island Hopping Tour A

El nido island hopping tour a itinerary attractions, secret lagoon, payong payong beach, shimizu island, seven commandos beach, el nido island hopping tips.

El Nido , located on the northern tip of mainland Palawan Island, boasts stunning beaches, diverse marine life, and iconic limestone formations. With over 40 islands and islets, there’s no shortage of places to explore and things to do in El Nido . It's one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines , offering fun activities like island hopping, diving, snorkeling, and lounging on beaches.

Island hopping is one of the most popular El Nido tours . There are four main El Nido island hopping tours to choose from, each offering unique attractions and activities in El Nido, Palawan . El Nido Tour A takes you to beautiful lagoons and beaches, while El Nido Tour B explores underrated beaches and caves. El Nido Tour C showcases stunning rock formations and snorkeling spots, and El Nido Tour D lets you discover remote islands and beaches. 

If you’re unsure which tour to book for island hopping in El Nido , note that El Nido Tour A and Tour C are the most popular among travelers.

For this article, we’ll discuss El Nido Tour A so you can learn about all the must-see attractions and must-do activities that you shouldn’t miss in your Palawan vacation.

See our popular El Nido Island Hopping Tours

Palawan el nido shared island hopping tour a with lunch & transfers | secret lagoon, shimizu island, palawan el nido shared island hopping tour c with lunch & transfers | secret beach, hidden beach, palawan el nido shared island hopping tour d with lunch & transfers | cadlao lagoon, paradise beach.

El Nido Island Hopping Tour A is one of the best tours to book in El Nido . To book an El Nido Island Hopping Tour A, you have several options. You can either book in advance through accredited tour operators or travel agencies like Guide to the Philippines that offer El Nido island hopping tour packages , book with your hotel, or head into town and book directly with vendors there. For a smoother vacation, it's best to book ahead to get the best deals on an all-inclusive El Nido day tour , including lunch and El Nido airport transfers .

There are two types of tours: private and shared/joiner tours. Private tours are more personalized, flexible and are ideal for groups. On the other hand, shared/joiner tours are best for solo travelers and are a budget-friendly option, great for meeting new people.

If you're looking for something extra special, Guide to the Philippines offers El Nido private luxury boat tours for a premium experience. These El Nido boat tours promise a luxurious adventure surrounded by breathtaking Palawan tourist spots .

• Check out our guide on how to go to El Nido and discover its top tourist spots

See our popular El Nido Transfers

El Nido Island Hopping Tour A is one of the most popular tours in Palawan . Booking an El Nido island hopping tour will let you discover these pristine beaches in Palawan with crystal-clear waters and stunning lagoons with limestone rock formations. Lunch is usually included in an island hopping tour, with a change in serving style since 2023 from picnic or boodle fight to packed lunches. Here are the must-see attractions on an El Nido Tour A itinerary:

See our popular El Nido Tours and Activities

El Nido island-hopping boats used to go inside the Big Lagoon, but the local tourism office changed this. Now, the only way to go inside is by swimming or paddling a kayak through the narrow passageway. Once inside, enjoy swimming in its crystal-clear blue waters, with sunlight peering through the beautiful rock formations. 

To reach the Secret Lagoon or Hidden Lagoon, your El Nido Tour A boat will dock near a small white sand beach in the southern part of Miniloc Island. You'll have to get off the boat and pass through a rocky cave-like opening, so watch your head, especially during high tide. If it's low tide, you can easily wade into the opening.

Inside, you'll find a small natural pool surrounded by tall limestone cliffs. You can take a refreshing dip in the cool water and enjoy the soft white sand. Unlike other lagoons, the water here stays cooler because of the cliffs that provide shade.

Another stop on this tour is Payong Payong Beach, located in the southern part of Miniloc Island in El Nido. The beach has stunning cliffs, rocks, and shady trees, perfect for picnics. Snorkeling is popular here due to the clear waters filled with fish and coral, and the gentle waves are great for swimming. 

Keep in mind that there aren't any sports or activities available, so it's mainly a place to relax. Here, you can lounge on the sandy beach, swim, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this secluded spot.

See our popular El Nido Vacation Packages

Shimizu Island, one of the islands in El Nido’s Bacuit Bay, is the ideal tropical escape with its serene white-sand beach and vibrant marine life. Once you make your stop here, you can relax on the pristine beach or snorkel to discover a plethora of fish species in various colors and sizes. 

Legend has it that the island got its name from a scuba diver named Shimizu, whose body was found on the island after he went missing exploring underwater tunnels in the area.

Shimizu Island is a popular lunch stopover for El Nido Tour A island-hopping. After enjoying a meal, you can continue swimming or rest under the shade of the limestone cliffs.

Seven Commandos Beach, another renowned beach in El Nido , stretches 320 meters and boasts pristine white sand, coconut trees, and towering limestone cliffs in the backdrop. Although technically connected to the mainland of El Nido in Palawan, it can only be reached by boat.

Legends surround the beach's name; some say it's named after stranded soldiers, while others claim it's linked to a fishing vessel or a carved stone found by locals. 

The beach offers ample space for activities like beach volleyball. Its gentle waves make it perfect for swimming and snorkeling, where you can discover its rich marine life.

• Book a Manila to El Nido package for a hassle-free getaway
• Torn between Coron vs El Nido ? Follow a Coron to El Nido itinerary for the best of both islands

See our popular Coron to El Nido Palawan Tour Packages

Amazing 12-day islands, lagoons & lakes tour to coron & el nido palawan from manila, epic 3-day palawan boat expedition island tour from el nido to coron with accommodations & meals, exciting 10-day islands & adventure tour to cebu, coron & el nido palawan package from manila.

One of the best ways to enjoy the stunning tourist spots of El Nido is through an island hopping tour. Here are some essential tips to make the most of your experience:

When you're heading out for El Nido island hopping , make sure you've got these essentials: sunscreen to protect your skin, a towel for drying off after swimming, drinking water to stay hydrated, and aqua shoes for comfortable walking on the beach and in the water.

Don't worry about bringing your own life vest; they're already provided in the boats. Just strap one on before you set out to explore the best beaches in El Nido .

If you want to go snorkeling, remember that snorkeling gear might not be included in your package. You can usually rent for an extra fee, or if you have your own gear, feel free to bring it along for the tour.

Kayaks are available as add-ons, giving you the chance to paddle around the crystal-clear waters and discover hidden coves and beaches at your own pace.

Each stop during your island-hopping tour usually lasts around an hour. Use this time wisely to enjoy the beauty of each location, whether it's lounging on the beach, snorkeling among colorful fishes, or snapping photos of the breathtaking scenery.

Keep in mind that the itinerary might change depending on the season or water conditions.

Your safety is important. Pay attention to any warnings from the Coast Guard, as tours might be canceled if conditions are deemed unsafe. When booking your tour, talk to your operator about refund policies in case of cancellations.

Help keep El Nido beautiful by not littering. Remember to take all your trash with you when you leave, leaving the islands pristine for future visitors to enjoy.

• Discover which tour is the best to book in El Nido during your vacation
• Find out where to stay in El Nido , such as El Nido budget hotels , during your Palawan getaway

Experience the Best of El Nido with Island Hopping Tour A

From towering cliffs to hidden lagoons and pristine beaches, the El Nido Island Hopping Tour A takes you on a breathtaking trip through stunning attractions. Aside from booking a guided tour, it’s highly recommended to book an El Nido Palawan tour package that also includes transfers, hotels, and meals for a hassle-free vacation.  When planning your next trip to the Philippines, you can also include other destinations in your Palawan itinerary , such as Puerto Princesa and Coron . For a fuss-free experience, you can check out other Palawan tour packages , such as El Nido to Puerto Princesa tour packages and El Nido to Coron tours .

Private El Nido Palawan Lio Airport to or from Any El Nido Town Hotel Transfer Service

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El Nido Island Hopping: A Full Guide to Private and Group Tours

05/07/2022 by Kristin Addis 8 Comments

If exploring secret lagoons, relaxing on pristine beaches, and swimming with diverse populations of neon colored tropical fish sounds like your perfect day, then island hopping in El Nido, Palawan, Philippines fits the bill! The natural beauty of this place is nothing short of a fairy tale, and it’s honestly mind-boggling to imagine that places like El Nido exist in the “real world.”

Island hopping in El Nido is also massively popular, so plan on sharing it with lots of other people. That said, there are ways that you can get more of it to yourself, and ways to make the tour more enjoyable.

This part of the world is ever-changing, and most of what’s on the internet is already outdated. This 2019 guide has everything you need to know about island hopping in El Nido today:

Table of Contents

If You Are Coming From Coron:

Consider going on an epic adventure from Coron to El Nido with Big Dream Boatman’s famous 4D3N trip . The tour promises to take you to places many do not get to visit, and provide the opportunity to embrace a true island life as well as to meet other travelers that you can plan to go on other trips together later.

The Island Hopping Tours

The island hopping tours in El Nido are organized into 4 different itineraries (creatively named, A, B, C, & D). Generally, Tour A is known for lagoons and beaches, B for caves and islands, C for great snorkeling and a shrine, and D somewhere in between, featuring island beaches. Each individual tour is unique and will take you on a journey to explore a different area of El Nido’s surrounding islands. This is your go-to guide for picking the one (or two…maybe three?) that best fits your adventure interests! At the end of the day, don’t stress about which letter tour is going to be the best- They’re all awesome, though some are more popular than others!

Prices for tours are fixed nowadays (though sometimes they’re discounted through the Klook links below), and just about every hotel and tour operator in El Nido offers one. Usually they call an agency who will book you onto a boat with 20 or so others, unless you book a private boat.

All tours have a compulsory 200 peso environmental fee which is good for 10 days and applicable to all tours, so hold onto your voucher! All tours also will charge 150 pesos for a mask and snorkel rental, so it’s best to bring your own if you can. Group tours also include a lunch of grilled fish, rice, and fruit. Here’s what’s on offer:

Tour A is one of the most popular of the four itineraries, essentially because it is the tour that visits the Big Lagoon. It also has a great combination of lagoons, beaches, and snorkeling which many tourists appreciate. In previous years, Tour A actually explored both the Big and Small Lagoons, but due to new municipal rules, this is no longer allowed. Because of this, there are two versions of Tour A available- one that goes to the Big Lagoon and another which goes to the Small Lagoon.

• The Big Lagoon is one of the main attractions of El Nido- characterized by stunningly deep blue water and massive, lush limestone cliff walls. These days it’s only possible to do either Big OR Small Lagoon, and each has a 200 peso entry fee with the possibility to rent a kayak for 250. I personally swam in because I LOVE swimming and even though nobody else did I was very happy with my choice. It was my highlight of El Nido.
• Secret Lagoon might not be much of a secret anymore, but it’s a pretty interesting, almost entirely sealed off lagoon save for a small opening near a gorgeous, white sand beach.

• Another great opportunity for snorkeling and seeing exquisite corals and marine life. Or just kicking back and relaxing on the white sand beach. Also, this island is a pure representative of El Nido’s geological beauty that boasts limestone cliffs covered with vegetation.
• This long white sand beach features a small beach bar that offers refreshing drinks and sunset cocktails. Keep your snorkeling gear handy, sea turtles love to hang out here!

Cost:  1200 PHP for the group tour

You can read more about my experience doing a private Tour A here , and my team member’s experience doing a group tour A here , with more detail on how to do it, whether it’s worth it or not, and more about each stop.

Tour B doesn’t get as much love as Tour A or C but for me, it ticked all of the boxes with sandbars, caves, and uniquely-shaped islands. Best of all, there weren’t as many people on Tour B, which was a nice contrast to the more popular Tour A.

• This is more commonly known as “Snake Island” because of a long and unique sandbar that slithers through this section of the Bacuit archipelago. This strip of sand gives you the feeling of walking in the middle of the sea. How many people can say they’ve experienced that?

• Also known as Ellis Island, this place might look familiar if you’ve ever searched El Nido on Google Images. It’s one of the many famous limestone structures that makes El Nido, El Nido. It also happens to have a gorgeous beach (surprised?) where you can relax in the sun, or splash around in the refreshing crystal clear water.

• Quick history lesson: this stop of Tour B is an important archeological site where potteries and other artifacts from the Sung Dynasty (960-1279) have been uncovered. This is also a location where locals hid from Japanese invaders during World War II. But now, it’s a place for you to put on your mask and snorkel and admire fish and corals, and if you’re lucky, swim alongside sea turtles.

Cost:  1300 PHP for the group tour

You can read more about my experience doing a private Tour B here , and my team member’s experience doing a group tour B here , with more detail on how to do it, whether it’s worth it or not, and more about each stop.

• The first stop of the tour is one of the most famous islands of the Bacuit archipelago. The traditional name is Dilumacad Island, but it took on the name Helicopter Island due to its shape – although some think it more closely resembles a camel or a dolphin… You’ll just have to decide for yourself!
• Once a place used to host a convent and a school, the Matinloc Shrine is now a place to walk around and explore the eerie yet charming land that legends say is haunted with a ghost.
• Beach lovers will be delighted by this tour, which provides landings at 3 gorgeous beaches that all have snorkeling opportunities. Be prepared to be amazed by the remote and serene beauty that encompasses each one- their names certainly weren’t chosen randomly.

Click here for a full review on the group tour C here!

Cost:  1400 PHP

Tour D is perfect for beach lovers who wish to avoid the majority of the crowds that flock to Miniloc Island, or perhaps have already visited and seen the “must-sees”.

• Close to El Nido town, Ipil Beach is the first stop where you can relax, swim, and charge up beneath the shade of some beautiful palm trees for the adventures that the rest of the day holds!
• Cadlao is the largest island of the Bacuit archipelago and home to one of the best lagoons as well as the relaxing Nat Nat Beach. The dramatic entrance is filled with corals and an abundance of fish. This is also known to be the least crowded compared to lagoons visited by other tours.
• Tour D utilizes the second half of the day to visit three different beaches – all of which are idyllic and pristine for those who wish to relax in the sun or snorkel around.

Cost:  1200 PHP

Are Private or Group Tours Best?

Is it worth booking a private tour? I did for both Tour A and Tour B and my feelings are mixed. In some ways, you can avoid the crowds by doing this, but it’s a much more expensive option unless you manage to find 6-10 others to join you.

Pros of doing a private tour:

• You can do the itineraries in reverse. Most tours go to the same places at the same time, so this allows you the possibility of getting some places to yourself, particularly on Tour B and D. This will probably not happen on Tour A.
• You can combine locations, and essentially create your own perfectly personalized tour.
• You choose how long to spend at each place, and you won’t have a permanent group of 19 others with you.

Cons of doing a private tour:

• Obviously, all of the island hopping tours in El Nido are vastly popular, so taking a private tour does not guarantee getting anything to yourself.
• They are very expensive. Most of the prices I saw online were out of date once I contacted the actual company, and at each place I asked in El Nido, the price ranged from 7k-9k pesos (and I asked about 15 places). You can cut down on the price by bringing your own food, though.

El Nido island hopping is not going to be without crowds, so if you can make peace with this regardless of which option you choose, you’re going to have a great time!

Where to Book:

First Name:

Now that I’ve gotten you excited about your island hopping adventure, you’re probably wondering where and how to book a tour. There are many companies prepared to take you on the adventure, and they more or less offer the same things.

There is the option to book at travel agencies in the town of El Nido, or at your accommodation. However I’ve found the cheapest pricing for group tours is actually on Klook, which you can book below:

Tour A , Tour B , Tour C .

Klook doesn’t appear to offer Tour D at this time, but as the prices are all fixed in town, you can book in person when you arrive.

Keep in mind, given the limited boats allowed for Tour A, you may want to book this one a few days ahead of time, particularly around Christmas and Holy Week!

While El Nido isn’t the secluded paradise it might have once been, it’s still a gorgeous adventure and one that I’m glad I experienced.

Happy island hopping!!

*Some links in this post are affiliate links to companies I use and trust that support this site at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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05/10/2019 at 6:37 am

Thanks for the great advice on tour options and what each one provides including group vs private tours. I think it so important when traveling, while still being spontaneous, to at least know going in what you can afford, how much approximate time you have available, how to keep from getting scammed, and if you are okay with crowds. This and the other recent posts you have provided have been most helpful in this regard! Cudugnon Cave looks really interesting to me as I like places that have a neat history or have archaeological significance, plus the beautiful water where you can maybe swim with sea turtles! Too bad the area is getting crowded. It is great to see people exploring our world and helping the Philippines out tourism-wise, but it is so hard to balance that out with protecting the beauty and finding solitude. Is there a trick to avoiding the sea urchins and stonefish and other potential hazards in the lagoons? That is the only thing that worries me. I have snorkeled before but it was always the other way around, don’t touch anything because we may hurt it, although in Eilat, Israel I went in and explored the Gulf of Aqaba and then came out and then saw all the “Danger!” signs :)!

Kristin says

05/10/2019 at 9:07 am

Yes basically, just don’t touch anything!

Diny Slamet says

07/18/2019 at 7:07 am

We did a private tour and avoided all the crowds by avoiding the islands covered by the fixed tours. We jus let the boatman take us to the quietest islands he knew. So saw no one else on the the three islands we visited and enjoyed tranquil snorkelling.

07/18/2019 at 12:01 pm

Awesome which ones were they and how did you go about organizing it?

Dierin says

07/28/2019 at 11:07 am

There are 2 of us females in our 60’s we would like to do a tour We will be staying for 12 days we need separate beds please make a suggestion Thx we love beaches

08/01/2019 at 2:49 am

Try booking.com for the hotel and book the island hopping through them.

John Eric Sagun says

11/09/2019 at 6:24 am

Hi, where can we get contacts of private tours? And are Tours being sold in klook provides free lunch in their package? Thank you for the response

11/10/2019 at 11:37 am

I just had to book through my guesthouse for private tours. Yes the group tours include lunch.

Tour A Island Hopping El Nido by Haqqy Life

• Boat and crew
• Friendly Local Licensed Tour Guide
• Photographer
• Snorkeling Gear
• Buffet Lunch
• Purified Drinking Water
• Rooftop pool access after island hopping
• Entry/Admission - Seven Commando Beach
• Entry/Admission - Entalula Island
• Entry/Admission - Payong-Payong Beach
• 200 PHP lagoon entrance fee. To be collected in cash before the start of the tour
• 200 PHP El Nido Eco-Tourism Development Fee (ETDF). Mandatory fee, valid for 10 days
• Kayak rental (300 PHP for two-seaters, 350 PHP for three-seaters)
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off
• Personal Expenses
• Entry/Admission - Big Lagoon
• Haqqy Life El Nido, Osmeña St, Masagana, El Nido, 5313 Palawan, Philippines Located on the ground floor of Frendz Hostel
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travellers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 25 travellers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Haqqy Life El Nido Osmeña St, Masagana, El Nido, 5313 Palawan, Philippines Located on the ground floor of Frendz Hostel See address & details
• 1 Big Lagoon Stop: 60 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 2 Seven Commando Beach Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details
• 3 Entalula Island Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details
• 4 Payong-Payong Beach Stop: 2 hours - Admission included See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• 763jemmas 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Well-organized boat tour, everything went perfect and fun-filled! This was by far one of the best experiences I've had in my life. The tour guides and crew were outstanding. I went solo and they accommodated me well, introduced me to other people on the tour where I made new friends. My favorite stop was the big lagoon where we kayaked through its turquoise waters -- mesmerizing! Haqqy Life is known for their fun tours with fun people! and I can attest to this as I experienced it first-hand. Highly recommend booking your tours with Haqqy Life!💯🙌 Read more Written 14 August 2023
• I7092DFjennyc 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best day tour ever! My best experience in El Nido! The most organized tour from start to end. I've joined many tours in Asia, but it's totally different with Haqqy Life! I had an awesome and best day ever! The guides and crew were entertaining and ive met a lot of new friends! Our last stop was the rooftop pool where we got to see the prettiest sunset ❤️ it was a magical hour! We joined fun games and won prices at the rooftop pool! Overall, an excellent boat tour and would definitely join again! Read more Written 8 August 2023
• 95vanb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best tour ever! Best choice for island hopping!! I've been to El Nido several times but this was the BEST boat tour I've experienced so far! I met a lot of like-minded people, mostly solo travelers from around the world and made new friends! It's also worth mentioning that they have their own boat and crew and a photographer on board ready to capture those fun times! 😍 They're remarkable and really made our trip exceptional. It was so well organized and we got to see the best of Tour A! We had so much fun playing volleyball on some islands. Our last stop was the rooftop pool where we stayed for some drinks and joined fun games. Thank you for making our trip so wonderful, Haqqy Life! I would really recommend this tour to everyone! Read more Written 7 August 2023

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Tour A Island Hopping El Nido by Haqqy Life provided by Tour A Island Hopping El Nido by Haqqy Life

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The ultimate guide to island life in El Nido, Philippines

With over 7,500 idyllic islands making up the tropical archipelago of the Philippines, you could island hop to a different island every day for 20 years. So with limited time and an overwhelming amount of islands to choose from, I narrowed my adventure down to Palawan Island with a specific destination in mind. El Nido.

I’ve travelled to a lot of beautiful tropical islands in South East Asia. I’ve sailed around the limestone cliffs in Thailand, hiked to the summit of an active volcano in Indonesia, swam in crystal clear water off Cambodia, and kayaked past floating villages in Vietnam, but nothing prepared me for the beauty of the Philippines. And nothing prepared me for the effect that El Nido would have on me.

Located at the tip of Palawan Island, El Nido is the gateway to the spectacular 45 islands and inlets that make up the Bacuit archipelago. Huge limestone cliffs dominate the landscape with clear aqua water and coral reefs waiting below. There are hidden beaches, beautiful lagoons and moments in the sunset that you’ll never want to end.

Some say the islands of El Nido were the real paradise behind the famous novel and blockbuster movie ‘The Beach’, with author Alex Garland writing the novel while he was there. According to local legend, it was a secret beach on Matinloc Island that you can only access by swimming underwater through a narrow crevice in a rock wall that inspired the novel.

Spanish for ‘the nest’, El Nido is named after the edible nests of swiftlets found in the crevices of its limestone cliffs. The nests, which are actually made out of bird saliva that has dried and hardened, are the gourmet ingredient in bird’s nest soup – a very expensive dish that is a delicacy across Asia. Costing up to USD$3,000 per kilogram, edible bird’s nests are among the most expensive animal products consumed by humans. Every day Filipino climbers risk their lives to ascend up the sharp cliff sides to harvest the nests from the caves high above the ocean.

While El Nido has started to gain more attention over the last few years with publications like Condé Nast Traveller and National Geographic rating Palawan as the ‘Best Island in the World’ and El Nido as one of the best destinations on the planet, it still feels relatively untouched. Don’t get me wrong, the Bangka boats go out everyday with island hopping tourists and there are hotels and accommodation options all over El Nido. But unlike some of the busy island hopping in parts of Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam where it’s impossible to take in a view or snap a photo without someone in it, we were able to enjoy beaches, lagoons and sandbars all to ourselves – something I didn’t think was possible anymore in South East Asia.

There are incredible adventures to be had on the mainland (Palawan Island), but El Nido is famous for island hopping. When you get there you’ll soon see that while there are many different tour operators, they are all selling the same four island hopping tours creatively named, Tour A, B, C and D. Tours A and C are the most popular – Tour A takes you to the Small, Big and Secret Lagoon, and Tour C takes you to Matinloc Shrine, Secret Beach, Hidden Beach and Helicopter Island. We only did Tour C (through El Nido Art Café ), and did everything in Tour A ourselves as we were staying at a private island resort that was a short kayak from all three lagoons, as well as some of the other tour hotspots that were close by like Snake Island which is part of Tour B.

The archipelago of El Nido truly is paradise and is one of the hardest places I’ve ever had to leave. It’s a destination that will leave you feeling inspired, with every adventure and experience leaving its mark on you. So to help you experience this island paradise for yourself, here’s my island hopping guide to what to see, where to eat and where to stay in El Nido.

1. El Nido’s Small Lagoon

The Small Lagoon is one of the main attractions in El Nido that’s right near Miniloc Island where we were staying. You enter the picturesque lagoon by swimming or kayaking through a small opening in the rocks. These photos were taken just after we paddled through to the other side where we were greeted with incredible clear turquoise-coloured water that was lined with limestone cliffs.

2. El Nido’s Big Lagoon

Along with the Small Lagoon, the neighbouring Big Lagoon is one of El Nido’s must-see experiences. While staying on Miniloc Island, we got up at the crack of dawn and kayaked to The Big Lagoon as the sun was coming up. We had the lagoon to ourselves for a few hours before all the tour boats arrived. We then kayaked back to Miniloc Island and headed back for a second look on the resort boat. It’s just one of the benefits of staying a short kayak and boat ride away on the incredible Miniloc Island.

3. Nacpan Beach

Nacpan Beach is one of the most beautiful stretches of sand in the Philippines. With four kilometres of soft cream-coloured sand, swaying coconut palms, clear aqua water and small surfable waves, it’s the kind of place you’d see if you closed your eyes and imagined paradise. Nacpan Beach is one-half of the famous ‘Twin Beaches’ – walk to the southern end of the beach, past a tiny fishing village and you’ll reach the point where Nacpan Beach merges with the smaller Calitang Beach. There’s a lush green hill that you can walk up that will give you a spectacular view of both beaches. Read more.

4. Las Cabanas Beach

Las Cabanas Beach is a beautiful chilled out picturesque beach that’s a short 10-minute tricycle ride north from El Nido Town. Tiny bars, restaurants and bungalows line the beachfront, with palm trees overhanging the ocean where local kids can be found splashing in the warm tropical waters alongside the tourists. The beach is famous for its spectacular sunsets, so make sure you head down for sundowners at one of the bars and restaurants on the sand for the best show in town. Read more.

5. Island hopping by zipline in El  Nino

While I’ve ziplined in beautiful destinations like Hawaii and Thailand, this is zipline is hands down the most picturesque I’ve ever seen. Never before have I experienced island-to-island ziplining where you can fly superman-style across a spectacular coconut palm-fringed beach. This was my first time zipping in the superman position and I couldn’t think of a better location to do it in than soaring high above Las Cabanas Beach over the ocean to Depeldet Island. Read more.

6. Matinloc Island

Matinloc Island is a beautiful island that’s famous for its unique Catholic shrine – a sacred monument built in 1982 to honour the Blessed Virgin Mary. It’s also home to the secret beach that inspired Alex Garland’s novel ‘The Beach’, as well as spectacular views of Tapiutan Strait and Tapiutan Island.

7. El Nido Town

While the super cute town of El Nido is the gateway for island hopping around the Bacuit Archipelago, the town itself is worth exploring and not just to use the ATMs or to book your tours. Walled by limestone cliffs the tiny bustling town is home beachfront restaurants, bars, and super cheap massages that are the cure for being on a scooter all day.

Where to eat in El Nido:

Le Plage Sunset Bar & Restaurant

The food in the Philippines was a bit hit and miss, but we managed to find a few great places like Le Plage Sunset Bar & Restaurant – a French place on the beach in Corong-Corong that’s a 10 minute scooter or tricycle ride out of El Nido town. This ceviche and margarita were the perfect starter. Details here. 

Santeria Guesthouse

Built amongst a cashew nut plantation, Santeria Guesthouse is an oasis amongst the trees. We were riding our scooter around the island and were about to turn back when we saw a sign for a B&B that turned out was the number one on Trip Advisor. We made a pit stop for lunch and it ended up being the best meal we had in the Philippines. There are no photos because I basically inhaled it, but this entire property was something really special. Details here.

Trattoria Altrove

Before I went to El Nido, I hadn’t eaten pizza for about five years. But that all changed when we discovered Trattoria Altrove. With a street-level brick oven, this Slovenian-owned pizza joint is the place to go in El Nido town for authentic pizza and pasta. The restaurant gets super crowded so be prepared to wait at least 30 minutes for a table. Next door is a little takeaway bottle shop where you can grab an icy cold San Miguel while you wait. Details here.

Where we stayed:

Luxe: Miniloc Island by El Nido Resorts

If you’re heading to El Nido, you’re going to want to check out El Nido Resorts – a group of four sustainable island resorts in the El Nido that have been developed to sit in harmony with the beautiful natural landscapes. We stayed on Miniloc Island – one of their more rustic resorts in a dreamy overwater bungalow. While the island is incredibly beautiful and a destination in itself, the best thing about Miniloc is how close it is to some of El Nido’s most popular attractions like the Big and Small Lagoons. An overwater bungalow like the one we stayed in is around AUD$890 per night for two – but that’s all-inclusive, so all your meals and non-motorised water sports are included. Details here.

Mid-range: Cadlao Resort

Cadlao Resort is a boutique resort in El Nido with beautiful tropical gardens in a unique hideaway location. The best thing about this resort is its incredible views of Cadlao Island – a mountainous island that looks like it’s been relocated from Tahiti. At a towering 640 metres above sea level, it’s the highest peak in El Nido. Located at the end of the main beach off a tiny street only accessible to tricycles and motorbikes, Cadlao Resort is quieter and more private than the hotels closer to El Nido town. The resort has a rocky beach, which is a little tricky to swim off. But where it lacks sand, it makes up for it with two impressive pools surrounded by palm trees. Bungalows start at around AUD$250 per night. Details here.

Budget: Las Cabanas Beach Resort

At AUD$175 per night for two, Las Cabanas Beach Resort isn’t exactly budget, but with no hot water, air-con or room wi-fi and limited electricity, it does have that vibe. Our beachfront cottage may not have had any mod cons, but it did have front row seats to the best sunsets in El Nido and the ocean right on our doorstep. There’s nothing better than falling asleep and waking up to the sound of waves gently lapping the beach. Details here.

TIL TIPS FOR EL NIDO:

• Bring as much cash as you will need to El Nido. When we were there (January-February 2016) the dual ATMs were super unreliable – most of the time they were either not working or had run out of money. Plus, the line up to use the ATMs was often hours long, wasting precious beach time. There are a few souvenir shops and restaurants in town where they will charge your credit card and give you cash back – expect to pay a 10% fee. The petrol station had a similar service, but it’s a bit more hit and miss – when we tried, they had run out of money and told us to come back the next day.
• Bring a GoPro or waterproof camera – some of the best beaches and lagoons in El Nido are only accessible by swimming or kayaking in and you’ll want to capture every moment of your island hopping adventures.
• Invest in a good dry bag to keep your things protected while you’re island hopping. You can pick up a cheap one in El Nido, but if you want to take your SLR camera island hopping with you, I recommend getting a waterproof camera bag. I use the Lowepro DryZone Duffle 20L – it basically folds flat in my suitcase and I couldn’t do without it on island life trips.

HOW TO GET TO EL NIDO:

The best way to get to El Nido on Palawan Island in the Philippines is to fly to Manila. From Manila you can get a direct flight to El Nido that takes around one hour. The flights from Manila to El Nido are through AirSWIFT and they book out fast, so make sure you don’t leave it until the last minute or you could find yourself on a bus that takes up to 12 hours. Details here.

Philippines camera kit courtesy of  Canon Australia  and  GoPro Australia:

• Cameras: Canon EOS 5D Mark III , Canon EOS 70D and the GoPro HERO4 Silver Edition.
• Lenses: Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM and Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM.

My dad is a former “buciador” (bird’s nest gatherer) in El Nido. He retired at the age of 50 but he had been doing it since he was a teenager.

I was born and raised in El Nido but have recently moved here in the States. I miss the El Nido life where you know almost everyone. You belong in a community. From your house, you can just walk to church, to school, to market, to store, to the beach, to your friends, what a simple life!

That’s so amazing that your dad was a buciador! I can’t believe you grew up in El Nido – it really is one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited. I love that it has such a strong community vibe – I can see why you miss it. I hope you get to visit your home again soon. Thanks so much for sharing your story.

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El Nido Island Hopping: A Full Guide to Tours A-D

Island Hopping in El Nido is an absolute must-do in the Philippines. Take a boat tour along the stunning lagoons and paradise islands in Bacuit Bay. The protected bay hosts 45 islands that belong to the most beautiful destination in the world. There are four El Nido island hopping tours that all take you along different islands. Read everything you need to know about the El Nido Tours.

El Nido Island Hopping Tours A-D

All well-rated island hopping tours include drinking water, snorkel gear, a kayak, the new (2019) environmental tax, and a delicious lunch on the beach. The lunch usually consists of fish & chicken, rice, eggplant salad, and freshly cut fruits. You can sometimes request collection from your hotel, too.

Here are all your hotel options in El Nido.

El Nido Tour A

Island Hopping Tour A takes you around Miniloc Island. Discover Secret Lagoon, kayak in the stunning and popular Big Lagoon, lunch at Shimizu Island, and experience sunset at 7-Commando Beach. Costs: 1200 – 2200 PHP/Pax. (~ 23 – 42 USD)

See tickets and availability for this tour

Please note: You can’t bring any plastic bottles on the El Nido island hopping tours with you. Read more tips on how to reduce plastic while traveling .

El Nido Tour B

Sail to the white sandbank called Snake Island, Entalula Island, movie-like Pinagbuyutan Island, and the Cathedral & Cudugnon Caves. Costs: 1200 – 1600 PHP/Pax. (~ 23 – 31 USD)

Book El Nido Tour B online

Good to know: Due to a new environmental policy, all combination and party boat tours are banned.

El Nido Tour C

Discover Hidden and Secret Beach, snorkel at Matinloc Shrine, and explore stunning Tapiutan and Helicopter Island. There is a big chance to see turtles on this tour in the Philippines .   Costs: 1200 – 1700 PHP/Pax. (~ 23 – 33 USD)

Pre-book your island hopping tour C here

Please note: Smoking on the El Nido island hopping tours is prohibited.

El Nido Tour D

Swim in the popular Small Lagoon, go beach hopping around Cadlao Island (for good snorkeling) and visit Pasandigan Cove, Nat Nat Beach, and Bukal island. Costs: 1200 – 1500 PHP/Pax. (~ 23 – 30 USD)

See availability for El Nido Tour D here

Private island hopping tours in El Nido

The absolute best way to experience El Nido’s Bacuit Bay is by private boat. This way, you can avoid all tourists, combine the above locations, and create your own tour. This does have a price tag, but will be 100% worth your money. Book a private tour at ArtCafe .

Best Island Hopping Tour in El Nido

Which of these El Nido tours should you book? A few years ago, tour A and tour C were the most popular. However, due to recent changes to put less pressure on the environment, all tours are equally very impressive. We personally would recommend adding tours A, B, or D to your Philippines Travel Guide .

Where to book an El Nido Island Hopping Tour?

Since the new regulations in 2019, there is a limited amount of people per day that may enter Bacuit Bay. We recommend you book at least two days ahead to be sure you have a spot. There are a few things to keep an eye on while booking an El Nido boat tour. Book a tour online or in town at ArtCafe .

• Don’t go for the lowest price! The lowest-priced tours will mix you with another group, so they get a full boat. The quality of these tours can’t be guaranteed.
• Make sure drinking water is included because you are not allowed to take plastic bottles.  
• Check if the tour includes the environmental tax. (200PHP) – Feb 2019
• Check if snorkeling gear & kayak are included.
• Try checking the company’s reviews on TripAdvisor.

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to El Nido via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

How to get to El Nido in Palawan

The most beautiful resorts & hotels in el nido, 10 best things to do in el nido, palawan.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

My family of 5 decided to do tour A using a private speed boat. How much do you suggest we tip the workers?

Hey! We’d usually opt for 10% of the total price but try to pay the workers directly and not the operator. 😊

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A Guide to El Nido Island Hopping Tours

Experience the best of bacuit bay with tour island hopping tours.

El Nido Island Hopping Tours offer a unique and unforgettable experience to explore the stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and hidden gems of the islands of Bacuit Bay, Palawan. Tour A, B, C, and D are the most popular island hopping tours in Bacuit Bay, Palawan. Tour A takes you to the lagoons and beaches of Miniloc Island, Tour B to the caves and beautiful beaches, Tour C to the hidden coves and beaches of Matinloc Island, and Tour D to the lesser known lesser known beaches of Cadlao Island. Let's explore the different individual tours and determine which one best suits your needs.

Come to Palawan!

El nido island hopping tours, el nido tour a.

• Departure Time: between 8.30-9.00am
• Departure point: El Nido town
• Attractions: Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Seven Commandos Beach
• Duration: 6 hours
• Tour A is offered daily and can be booked as a shared or private boat tour
• Bangka outrigger boat can fit 12, 15, or 25 passengers, depending on availability.
• Kayak rentals are available for both the entire tour or just for the Big Lagoon

El Nido’s Big Lagoon is a stunning natural wonder surrounded by towering limestone cliffs , making it the most photographed attraction in Bacuit Bay. If you’re planning a trip to El Nido, the Big Lagoon is a must-visit destination that should not be missed.

Access to the Big Lagoon is via a shallow but large channel, which can accommodate several outrigger boats at the same time. During low tide, visitors can walk or kayak through the channel. Once inside the lagoon, visitors can enjoy a natural swimming hole with emerald green waters, surrounded by massive and towering karst walls.

It’s important to note that access to the Big Lagoon is limited to a certain number of visitors per day. To secure your slot to the Big Lagoon, it’s recommended to Book Tour A in advance.

Secret Lagoon

The Secret Lagoon of Miniloc Island may not be a secret anymore, but it remains one of the most popular attractions in El Nido. Concealed behind karst limestone cliffs , the Secret Lagoon offers a hidden world waiting to be explored.

To access the Secret Lagoon, visitors must scramble or swim through a tiny crevice on the rock’s face, depending on the tide. Once inside, visitors are treated to stunning views of emerald shallow waters and unique rock formations that make for perfect photo opportunities.

Shimizu Island

Shimizu Island is renowned for being one of the top snorkeling spots in El Nido, thanks to the diverse range of corals and marine life that can be found here. With its towering limestone rock walls and pristine white sandy beach, Shimizu Island is the perfect place to stop for a picnic lunch during your island-hopping adventure.

Named after a Japanese diver who lost his life while exploring an underwater cave here, Shimizu Island has become a popular stopover for boats doing the Tour A circuit around Miniloc Island.

7 Commandos Beach

Seven Commandos Beach is the ultimate beach paradise in El Nido, with its high cliffs sheltering the whitest sand and crystal-clear water that you can imagine. The sunsets here are breathtaking and are not to be missed.

Although this isolated beach is located on the mainland, it can only be accessed by boat due to the mountainous terrain. It has become a popular stop on island hopping Tour A , and is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to El Nido.

Named after a stranded fishing vessel, Seven Commandos Beach has a fascinating history. When the vessel was repaired and left the beach, locals discovered a huge stone engraved with the words “7 Commandos,” which they believed was the name of the vessel

El Nido Tour A by Shared Boat

El Nido Tour A by Private Boat

El nido tour b.

• Attractions: Snake Island Sandbar, Cudugnon and Cathedral Caves, Entaluala Island and Popolkan Island
• Tour B is offered daily and can be booked as a shared or private boat tour

Snake Island

Snake Island, also known as Vigan Island, is one of the must-visit destinations on El Nido’s Island Hopping Tour B. The island gets its name from its S-shaped sandbar , which connects it to the mainland.

The unique shape of the sandbar allows visitors to walk through it during low tide, making for a memorable experience. You can also splash around in the shallow waters on both sides of the sandbar.

For those who love a good hike, Snake Island also offers a trek to a stunning viewing point at the top. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the white sand stretching out like a long tongue, winding its way along the island.

Cudugnon Cave

Cudugnon Cave is another popular attraction on Island Hopping Tour B in El Nido. This cave is believed to have been a burial site during the Neolithic period, and artifacts and human bones have been discovered inside.

To enter the cave, you’ll need to squeeze through a small rocky hole, but once inside, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking rock formations and high ceilings. The cave roof’s crevices are home to swiftlets (known as Balinsasayaw) and bats.

Just a few steps away from the cave’s entrance, you’ll find a secluded white sand beach where you can relax in a peaceful environment after exploring the cave.

Cathedral Cave

El Nido is not just famous for its stunning beaches and lagoons but also boasts some amazing caves that are often overlooked by tourists. One of the most awe-inspiring caves is the Cathedral Cave, located on Pinasil Island, just a boat ride away from Cudugnon Cave.

Although it may not look impressive from afar, as you get closer, you’ll be amazed by the huge cavern with an opening even higher than the Underground River . The cave is navigable by boat and has spectacular rock formations and a high ceiling that resembles a cathedral.

The cave is also an important nesting site for the Cave Swallow, whose nests made of dried saliva are the main ingredient in the exotic bird’s nest soup.

While the crystal-clear emerald water inside the cave looks inviting, it’s too risky for swimming since it’s the habitat of venomous sea snakes.

Entalula Island

Entalula Island is a pristine and beautiful spot that offers visitors a serene and private island experience. The island’s crystal-clear waters and colorful coral reefs make it an ideal place to snorkel and discover the vibrant marine life beneath the surface. The island’s lush vegetation and rocky cliffs provide a beautiful backdrop for its pristine beaches.

Popolkan Island

Popolkan Island is a fantastic snorkeling spot that offers an excellent experience for underwater enthusiasts.

El Nido Tour B by Shared Boat

El Nido Tour B by Private Boat

El nido tour c.

• Attractions: Matinloc Island, Secret Beach, Hidden Beach Helicopter Island and Tapiutan Island.
• Duration: 7 hours
• Tour C is offered daily and can be booked as a shared or private boat tour

Helicopter Island

Helicopter Island, also known as Dilumacad Island, is a stunning destination in Bacuit Bay. Its towering limestone cliffs covered in lush vegetation and pristine beaches are typical of the area’s stunning islands.

Helicopter Island gets its name from its cliffs’ resemblance to a helicopter’s shape when viewed from a distance, although some visitors may find it challenging to see the similarity.

The island boasts excellent snorkeling spots and underwater tunnels that advanced divers will appreciate. Besides water sports, Helicopter Island is also an ideal spot for relaxation and rejuvenation. Its 300 meters of beach is perfect for picnicking during island hopping trips or basking in the sun.

Secret Beach

The Secret Beach is a must-see attraction. Situated on the edge of Matinloc Island, Secret Beach is a pocket of fine white sand encircled by towering rock walls . Accessing the Secret Beach can be a challenge as visitors must swim through a narrow crevice in a rock wall. During rough seas, even experienced swimmers may find it difficult to enter. However, the reward for reaching this secluded location is a pristine beach with crystal-clear waters.

Local lore suggests that Alex Garland, author of the novel-turned-film The Beach, lived and wrote his bestseller in El Nido, likely inspired by the Secret Beach’s beauty. Take a visit to the Secret Beach and experience the allure that captivated Garland and countless others.

Hidden Beach

Tucked away in the nooks and crannies of the islands, the Hidden Beach is a small paradisiac cove concealed by limestone rock and impossible to see from the open sea . The beauty of this beach is created by towering limestone cliffs and mystical rock formations.

Part of El Nido’s Tour C, the Hidden Beach is a popular stop and a must-visit destination. With its white sands and crystal clear water, this beach is perfect to visit during high tide when the water is calm, making it an ideal spot to take perfect photos. To access Hidden Beach, visitors have to swim to get there, which may be challenging due to the current.

The Hidden Beach is also a great spot for snorkeling, where you can easily see various species of corals and fishes. Its secluded location provides a tranquil atmosphere, making it an excellent place to relax and unwind.

Matinloc Shrine

Matinloc Shrine, formally known as the Shrine of Our Lady of Matinloc, is a hidden abandoned site located at the foot of towering karst cliffs on the western coast of Matinloc Island in El Nido. This shrine was built in 1982 but has since been neglected and run down. Nevertheless, visitors are still permitted to visit the area and explore the ruins.

While some may consider this place as a spiritual haven, many visitors come to Matinloc Shrine for the breathtaking panoramic view it offers. To reach the viewpoint, you need to climb a small limestone hill located close to the shrine. From there, you can enjoy an awe-inspiring view of Tapiutan Island, which lies opposite Matinloc.

Located in Tapiutan Island, Star Beach is a must-visit destination that offers a breathtaking view of the neighboring Matinloc Island. This beautiful beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and even enjoying lunch.

The beach is aptly named Star Beach as it is home to numerous harmless starfishes that can be found resting on the seabed. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or a first-time visitor, the underwater world of Star Beach is a sight to behold.

El Nido Tour C by Shared Boat

El Nido Tour C by Private Boat

El nido tour d.

• Attractions: Cadlao Island and Small Lagoon
• Tour D is offered daily and can be booked as a shared or private boat tour
• Kayak rentals are available for both the entire tour or just for the Small Lagoon

Small Lagoon

Small Lagoon, located on the picturesque Miniloc Island, is one of the most fascinating and popular destinations to explore in El Nido, Palawan. It is considered an iconic spot and is frequently photographed alongside the Big Lagoon.

To enter Small Lagoon, visitors can either swim through a small hole in a rock wall or paddle through in a kayak during low tide. Once inside, a hidden world awaits, waiting to be explored by kayaking or swimming. The crystal-clear waters of the lagoon are surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs that provide a stunning and memorable view.

Cadlao Lagoon

Cadlao Island, the largest island in El Nido’s archipelago, is a picturesque paradise that resembles a “ mini-Tahiti “. The island’s lush landscapes, including a conspicuous peak towering 640 meters above sea level, offer a breathtaking view to visitors.

One of the most spectacular natural wonders on Cadlao Island is the Cadlao Lagoon. Its emerald waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs create a breathtaking view that will take your breath away. This lagoon also offers an excellent spot for snorkeling, where you can explore the shallow coral gardens just off the beach.

Kayaking in Cadlao Lagoon is an unforgettable experience that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty.

Pasandigan Cove

Pasandigan Cove is a hidden gem located in the stunning Cadlao Island. With its inviting stretch of white sand and bright blue waters flanked by towering limestone cliffs, it’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the pristine nature .

Unlike other crowded beaches in El Nido, Pasandigan Cove is a well off-the-beaten-track destination, allowing travelers to discover a tropical paradise without the usual crowds. It’s a great place to unwind, sunbathe, and swim in the crystal-clear waters.

Nat Nat Beach

Nat Nat Beach is a hidden gem in Cadlao Island, offering visitors a secluded paradise away from the crowds. Its soft white sand and calm turquoise waters are sheltered by sheer limestone cliffs, adding to its raw and untouched beauty.

One of the best things about Nat Nat Beach is its lack of commercialization. It’s a peaceful and unspoiled destination that few tourists know about. This means that you can have the entire beach to yourself, allowing you to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Paradise Beach

Paradise Beach on Cadlao Island is a true tropical gem and a must-see attraction on Tour D . This secluded beach boasts powdery white sand and emerald waters, living up to its name as a true paradise.

For a truly memorable experience, kayaking is the perfect way to explore the beach and surrounding area. Alternatively, you can simply unwind with a good book or capture stunning photos of the breathtaking scenery.

With no crowds to disrupt your peace, Paradise Beach is the perfect escape for those seeking a serene and tranquil retreat.

Bucal Island

Bucal Island is a hidden gem in El Nido, boasting a small but beautiful white sand beach perfect for a relaxing getaway. This peaceful oasis is an ideal spot for a quiet picnic or a refreshing swim in its crystal-clear waters.

The island’s shallow and transparent waters are also perfect for snorkeling, offering a chance to explore the vibrant marine life teeming with colorful fishes and corals.

El Nido Tour D by Shared Boat

El Nido Tour D by Private Boat