el nido palawan tourist spot itinerary

Top 14 Things to See and Do in El Nido Palawan: Stunning Beaches, Islands & Lagoons

1. Chill at Nacpan Beach

2. marvel at the beauty of big lagoon.

• 3. Kayak in Small Lagoon
• 4. Dip in the Secret Lagoon

5. Discover the Hidden Beach

6. find the secret beach, 7. relax at shimizu island.

• 8. Lounge in Seven Commandos Beach

9. See the View from Matinloc Shrine

• 10. Lie on the Sandbar of Snake Island

11. Catch the Sunset at Las Cabanas Beach

12. climb the taraw cliffs, 13. plunge into nagkalit-kalit waterfalls, 14. dive and explore the marine life, experience the beauty of el nido.

Explore one of the best island destinations in the world found in the Philippines' Palawan province, El Nido. Find out why El Nido island hopping tours are a must-do for visitors traveling to the Philippines from from different parts of the world.

One of the  top tourist destinations in the Philippines , both for local and international explorers alike, thanks to its undeniable and exotic beauty is El Nido  in Palawan.

This quaint little beach town located in the northernmost part of mainland Palawan has developed to become a travel destination, with more convenient access to more flights and a wide array of El Nido resorts  and El Nido hotels  (some of which offer  Philippine luxury vacation packages ), some of the best beach resorts in the Philippines , Philippines honeymoon resorts , and backpacker hostels that cater to everyone's budget, El Nido has opened its doors to wanderers from all walks of life.

• Find El Nido tours and activities you can add to your itinerary
• See destinations for solo travel in the Philippines

Imagine deserted powdery white sand shores with clear and turquoise waters, breathtaking limestone cliffs, secret islands, and dramatic sunsets – truly El Nido should be on every traveler's bucket list because of its unspoiled beaches

See our popular El Nido Tours and Activities

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El Nido weather is almost always in summer mode, making it a great year-round destination. The main attraction of El Nido is several island-hopping destinations that you can easily travel to. 

More than the many beautiful islands off its coast, the island also satisfies adventure-seekers and nature lovers by offering exciting  tours in El Nido such as cliff climbing, kayaking, trekking to waterfalls, and lounging on pristine Palawan beaches in the main island.

• Boracay to El Nido Philippine tour packages
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Experiencing El Nido is like getting lost in a dream, one that you wouldn’t want to wake up from. Its grandeur and charm will surely let you have a taste of paradise and heaven on earth. Can’t wait to explore El Nido yet? Start preparing your trip with this list of all the things to do in El Nido that you should not miss when you explore this exquisitely gorgeous tropical destination.

Deserted golden sand, clear blue waters, and a surreal view of the ocean await you at Nacpan Beach. Just the thought of lounging under the sun in this paradise makes you wish for that dreamy escapade. It's why joining an  inland trip in Nacpan Beach  is worth the wait. 

The 45 minutes to 1-hour drive from the El Nido town proper is well worth it once you set foot in this slice of heaven. Read a book, listen to music, or watch the waves kiss the shoreline as you take in the beauty that Nacpan Beach has to offer. Local and foreign tourists rave about the 4-km long Nacpan Beach in El Nido because of the laid-back vibe here. 

Nacpan Beach is part of the Twin Beaches with the adjacent Calitang Beach. You can climb up to the highest point and see the view of the two beaches. If you're trying out Nacpan Beach tours, buy some drinks or snacks in the beach bar as you work on your tan. The sunset in Nacpan Beach is also a must-see, the cherry on top for a perfect tropical getaway in El Nido, Palawan.

• Book a  direct flight to El Nido  for your upcoming Palawan itinerary
• See other Palawan tours you can try
• Check out this  El Nido land tour to Nacpan Beach, Lio Beach & Bulalacao Waterfalls

This majestic lagoon in Miniloc Island looks like a scene straight from a destination movie. It's like you're transported to a different dimension where you're surrounded by towering cliffs lined up to watch over you. It is one of the highlights of an El Nido Big Lagoon Private Tour .

As you enter through the Big Lagoon, everything is a sight to behold – the crystal-clear blue water, the ray of light peeking through the top of the cliffs, and the luscious limestone formation. It has become famous for being featured in several movies and postcards because of its beauty, as seen from drone shots to kayak views.

See our popular El Nido Island Hopping Tours

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Due to the local government's efforts to keep the pristine condition of El Nido islands and avoid overcrowding, island-hopping boats are not allowed to go inside of the Big Lagoon anymore. The time spent and the number of tourists is also strictly controlled.

• Check out other destinations where you can experience island hopping in the Philippines
• Read our article on Port Barton resorts

Tourists, however, can board kayaks and paddle their way through the shallow entrance that will lead to a giant natural pool with turquoise waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.

3. Kayak in Small Lagoon 

Another Miniloc Island destination is the famous Small Lagoon. As the name implies, it is relatively smaller compared to the Big Lagoon, but can't be discounted when it comes to the beauty and charm it exudes.

Unlike the Big Lagoon where the opening can be easily entered, the Small Lagoon has a smaller entrance. You can swim or ride a kayak and go through a crack on a limestone wall to get inside during your Small Lagoon tour .

Once you’re inside, you can take a dip or kayak around the peaceful waters of Small Lagoon and enjoy its calm surroundings with the sound of nature as your default soundtrack. Its serene turquoise waters that make up a natural pool in the middle of cliffs are the perfect spot for floating or kayak rides.

Similar to the policies implemented in Big Lagoon, the number of tourists and time spent in Small Lagoon has limitations as well to keep its enchanting vibe. 

• Boracay to El Nido flights Clark to El Nido flights

4. Dip in the Secret Lagoon 

This unique natural pool in El Nido's Miniloc Island is also known as the Hidden Lagoon. This popular El Nido Big Lagoon has a sweet surprise that awaits you once you enter a small opening on the majestic limestone cliffs.

When getting here, your boat will make its way to a small white sand beach in the southern part of Miniloc Island. You'll pass through a hollow rocky cave-like opening so be extra careful and dock your head. You can easily wade into the opening if it's low tide.

• Check out our  Puerto Princesa to El Nido tour package with Port Barton island-hopping side trip
• Book an  El Nido island-hopping tour on a party boat

Once inside, you'll be greeted by a small natural pool surrounded by remarkably high limestone cliffs –  this is the Secret Lagoon.

You can dip in the natural cold pool and bury your toes in its beautiful white sand. Unlike the Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon, the water here is cooler because of the cliffs that cover it from the sunlight.

However, a Hidden Lagoon tour  is done during low tide, the water is only knee-high deep and activities are limited to quick dips or picture taking. But the mysteriousness of the Secret Lagoon is what makes it a worthy destination. 

​ Similar to the Big Lagoon, you will need to board a kayak or swim from your boat to get to this Hidden Beach. The pristine small stretch of white sand beach called the Hidden Beach is usually a part of Matinloc Island Premium Private Tour .

Boats cannot fit in the entrance to go to the Hidden Beach. Since the distance from where the boats dock and the beach itself is quite far; the best way to get inside is by riding a kayak from your boat where you'll pass through towering karst cliffs.

The crystal clear water here is more shallow than the Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon and is excellent for a relaxing swim. The white sand of Hidden Beach lined with lush greenery is also the right spot for sunbathing or building sandcastles if you have kids with you.

El Nido isn't done yet with hidden and secret places! A highlight and must-see during an El Nido speedboat island hopping tour  is the Secret Beach. This hidden enchanting beach in El Nido is said to have been the inspiration behind the novel "The Beach," by Alex Garland. It was then adapted into a film starring Leonardo di Caprio. 

Once your boat arrives, you'll see nothing but a big wall of limestone cliffs with no beach in sight. To see the Secret Beach, you'll need to swim through the hole under the towering cliffs. A sweet surprise in the form of a hidden unspoiled beach awaits you behind the wall that surrounds it.

Be careful when swimming through the hole, especially if the waves are strong. Kayaks cannot go in through the hole, so your only option is to swim. Your tour guide will provide you with life vests and assist you as you make your way inside. But the struggle will be all worth it when you see the immaculate Secret Beach. 

Shimizu Island (also spelled as Simizu Island) is the perfect stop for you to relax in its cool white-sand beach or whip out your snorkeling gears to explore its colorful marine life. In fact, a Shimizu Island tour  will let you lounge on one of the  best beaches in El Nido and a popular lunch stopover as well.​

You can spot here different species of fish in various shapes, colors, and sizes. You can explore the beauty of Shimizu Island underwater by snorkeling or you can relax and lounge by its white sand beach.

The island-hopping tour usually includes lunch at this island stop. You can swim some more or take a nap under the shade of the limestone cliffs as your boatmen and guide clean up and prepare to leave for your next stop.  

8. Lounge in Seven Commandos Beach 

The 320-meter long Seven Commandos Beach is said to have been named after seven soldiers who were stranded here during World War II. You can visit this when you book a Big Lagoon tour . 

Seven Commandos Beach is a postcard-worthy white sand beach lined with coconut trees and a massive wall of limestone cliffs in the background. It's the perfect last stop for tourists to lounge by the sand with a freshly opened coconut in hand. 

The Seven Commandos Beach has a shore wide enough for tourists to play beach volleyball or work on their tan. The beach is also known for its gentle waves; you can relax by the crystal-clear waters after a tiring day of kayaking in the lagoons.

It's also the right spot for snorkeling because of the calm waters and precious marine life. But you can always opt to have a lazy afternoon on its shores and enjoy the tropical island life.  

Unlike the beaches and lagoons of El Nido whose main highlights are their pristine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. This island-hopping stop in a Matinloc Island Premium Shared Tour is a unique one.

The Matinloc Shrine, specifically the Shrine of Our Lady of Matinloc, is an abandoned spiritual oasis that sits on top of Matinloc Island and offers one of the best views of El Nido.

There's also a mini-museum on the island where you can learn about the shrine's history. The story says that a Matinloc devotee had a vision of a dome with 12 pillars and inside was the image of the Virgin Mary.

The way to the viewing deck is through the limestone cliff staircase, so make sure to wear your slippers or aqua shoes. Once you reach the top, you can climb further to the jagged cliffs to see a 360° view of the neighboring islands and the blue waters of El Nido. 

10. Lie on the Sandbar of Snake Island 

Snake Island, aptly named because of its s-shape white powdery sandbar that connects a small island to the mainland of El Nido, is a popular attraction included in a Cave Exploration Private Tour . The sandbar only appears during low tide and is truly a sight to behold. 

Snake Island excursions feature gorgeous sandbar strip, hidden in Bacuit Bay, which is the perfect spot for a romantic stroll as you take in the breathtaking view. Dip your feet in the sand or lounge by its shores as the waves meet from both sides gently crash into you. Not to worry though, there are no snakes in Snake Island. Its other name is Vigan Island. The beauty of Snake Island and its serene vibe make it a must-try when in El Nido. 

See our popular El Nido Snake Island Tours

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The beach is lined with several bars and restaurants. You can buy drinks and snacks while waiting for the sunset or chill and enjoy the laid-back vibe of this El Nido tourist spot. 

Some of these bars and restaurants also have bean bags or chairs by the beach where you can grab the perfect spot for sunset-watching. Our tip is to find a seat by the far left to get the best view of the sunset. 

If you want a different way to enjoy this beach in El Nido, you can also try the Las Cabanas zipline where you can be treated to an incredible view. At night, you can also enjoy romantic dinners or chill drinking sessions by the beach here. 

There are two ways to climb the Taraw Cliffs: the regular hike or by a Canopy Walk. But both will require you to face your fear of heights. The regular hike up the Taraw Cliffs will have you ascending its steep and sharp limestone rocks. Doing this hike will require a guide and proper hiking shoes, so you have a better grip. 

An alternative and much safer way to see the view from the Taraw Cliffs is by doing the Canopy Walk. Compared to the regular hike, a canopy walk tour provides you with safety equipment like helmets and harnesses. There are built-in walkways in the cliffs that you can explore to get the best views. This option is an excellent activity for inexperienced hikers.  

Aside from the islands, beaches, and lagoons of El Nido, you can also dip into the natural pool of Nagkalit-Kalit Waterfalls. The hike to the waterfalls is an adventure itself, but the cool temperature of the water compensates for the effort of trekking to the place. 

"Nagkalit-kalit" translates to "Nagsaglit" in Tagalog which means "taking a moment." You will surely forget the time as you adore the beauty of the waterfalls and the joy it offers to tourists who stumble upon it.

Nagkalit-Kalit Waterfalls is located in between El Nido town proper and Nacpan Beach. It’s usually a stop in El Nido inland tours. From the main road, you will have to trek for about 20-45  minutes in the jungle and rivers to reach the waterfalls. Once you arrive at Nagkalit-Kalit Waterfalls, you can choose from the big or the small falls and plunge into the natural pool for a refreshing swim.  

While Palawan’s  Coron is regarded as a top diving spot, El Nido also offers several underwater adventures for diving enthusiasts. There are over 40 diving spots that you can choose from in El Nido. From coral gardens, tunnels, steep vertical walls, sandy flats, to deep dives, El Nido has them all for you. 

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Most of the diving spots in the island are around its islands and beaches that are included in  El Nido island-hopping tours . The most popular diving site in El Nido is South Miniloc, where you can find vibrant coral gardens. You might even get the rare chance to spot sea turtles.

See our popular Diving Tours

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Take it from us; El Nido will leave a mark on you. If you think that falling in love at first sight, isn't real, think again because El Nido will cast a spell on you. Its effortless natural beauty, charming tropical island vibe, and breathtaking sceneries along with the warmth of its people will surely find a way to your restless heart. We're sure that El Nido will be on the top of your favorite travel destinations once you explore it for yourself.

• Manila to Puerto Princesa flights
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Start planning your island getaway to El Nido and tick it off your travel bucket list. To make your itinerary planning more relaxed and your adventure more convenient, make sure to research  El Nido tours and activities from El Nido island hopping tours to inland activities. Check out glamping resorts in El Nido for a unique experience.

See our popular El Nido Vacation Packages

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Top 10 El Nido Tourist Spots for Your Palawan Itinerary

If there’s only one word that describes El Nido, Palawan it would be PARADISE . Yes, think secluded islands, pristine white sand beaches, and boundless nature. Truly, it is one of the best beach destinations in the Philippines and the world. While we’ve been to most of these top El Nido tourist spots , we’ll surely be back to discover more!

BOOK EL NIDO TOURS  

Top el nido tourist spots for nature lovers, 1. big lagoon.

The Big Lagoon is almost always the representative image of El Nido island hopping tours. In fact, it is one of the first El Nido tourist spots we visited when we signed up for Tour A . When we arrived here, it was as if we entered another realm with its cerulean blue waters amid the karst landscape of Miniloc Island. While you’re here, don’t pass up the chance to explore this natural wonder on a kayak.

• How to get there: Via banca (outrigger boat) on El Nido Tour A
• Entrance fee: ₱200
• El Nido Eco-Tourism Development Fee (ETDF): ₱200 (one-time fee valid for 10 days)
• Kayak rental: ₱300-400
• Snorkel set: ₱150

JOIN EL NIDO TOUR A  

2. small lagoon.

Close to the Big Lagoon is the Small Lagoon , which you can access by kayaking or swimming. We were enchanted by the breathtaking landscape and calm waters as we kayaked our way to the inner portion of this natural pool within Miniloc Island.

• How to get there: Via banca (outrigger boat) on El Nido Tour D
• Kayak rental: ₱300
• Snorkel set: ₱100

JOIN EL NIDO TOUR D  

3. secret lagoon.

Secret Lagoon is one of El Nido’s best-kept secrets. Reaching it may be a bit of a challenge as you have to cramp yourself into a small hole to admire its hidden beauty. But it’s truly worth it!

• Entrance fee: Free when you already paid the one-time El Nido Eco-Tourism Development Fee of ₱200

4. Shimizu Island

Shimizu Island is one of our favorite El Nido tourist attractions since we had the chance to snorkel and see the vibrant marine life here. It’s a popular snorkeling area and an alternative stopover where the boatmen prepare food for lunch on your banca (outrigger boat).

5. Snake Island

Don’t worry, Snake Island is not an island where snakes live. It is actually named after the unique snake-like shape of the sandbar, which becomes more visible during low tide. When we arrived here, we hiked up a small hill to clearly see the stunning sandbar from a vantage point.

• How to get there: Via banca (outrigger boat) on El Nido Tour B

JOIN EL NIDO TOUR B  

Top el nido tourist spots for beach bums, 6. seven commandos beach.

Seven Commandos Beach is one of our favorite El Nido beaches with its white sand beach fringed with coconut trees. We ended our exhilarating El Nido Tour A here where we cooled down and had some buko (coconut) juice before heading back to El Nido proper.

7. Hidden Beach

Hidden Beach is truly a hidden paradise with pristine white sand, crystal clear waters, and magnificent rock formations. As it is one of the main El Nido tourist spots in Tour C , there were lots of tourists when we arrived, so we really didn’t stay long here. Still, it’s a postcard-worthy beach destination in El Nido you should see for yourself.

• How to get there: Via banca (outrigger boat) on El Nido Tour C

JOIN EL NIDO TOUR C  

8. secret beach.

Of all the El Nido tourist spots, Secret Beach is probably the most challenging for us. It was high tide and the waves were crushing the narrow entryway so we didn’t risk it. It would have been awesome to marvel at its natural beauty hidden behind the limestone cliffs. Maybe next time!

9. Nacpan Beach

Located north of El Nido, Nacpan Beach is a beautiful beach with a long stretch of cream-colored sand and swaying coconut trees. To reach it, take a trike or join an El Nido Land Tour . If you can’t get enough of this unspoilt beach, you may want to consider staying at Nacpan Beach Resort .

• How to get there: Via tricycle or private transfer on El Nido Land Tour
• Entrance fee: Free

JOIN EL NIDO LAND TOUR  

10. las cabanas beach.

Las Cabanas Beach is also part of El Nido Land Tour along with Nacpan Beach and Lio Beach. This is the perfect place to admire the sunset or simply chill out. There are a few restaurants and bars here to while away the afternoon. You can even book a night or two at Las Cabanas Beach Resort if you want to stay longer.

These are just some of the many El Nido tourist spots waiting for you to discover. Also, consider staying in one of the best El Nido resorts to make your escapade even more spectacular.

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Home » Southeast Asia » Philippines » El Nido

EPIC EL NIDO Itinerary! (2024)

If you want to spend your holiday lazing in the sun on white-sand beaches before jumping into crystal blue waters, then El Nido is the perfect holiday destination!

This Palawan Island municipality is full of things to do and great places from which to set out. Go snorkeling in the rich tropical waters, or tour the archipelago on an exciting day trip! We’ve put together all the very best of what to do in a comprehensive El Nido Itinerary. You can also find out when to visit El Nido, learn insider tips, and where to stay during your trip!

Whether you’re spending two days in El Nido or backpacking the Philippines for two months, you will adore this island paradise! Read on to discover everything you’ll need to know to have a wonderful trip in El Nido.

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Best Time To Visit El Nido

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The best time to travel to El Nido, Philippines is during the dry season. This is the Palawan island’s peak season, and it will get busy, but the weather is so perfect, and there’s so much to do, that the crowds won’t bother you. Depending on how you like to travel, you may also prefer it! 

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The driest and coldest time of year is from December to February, making this the best time to go . Why not spend Christmas basking in the sun? 

The rainy season in the Philippines can grow quite stormy and sometimes limit the activities available. If you do choose to travel during this time for the cheap flights and small crowds, be sure to keep an eye out on the weather. It can be just as fun, as long as you pick the right days to go!

El Nido is a small town, and every part of it is beautiful! Still, you can choose between neighborhoods that are perfect for island hopping, partying, lazing on the beach and exploring the lush landscape outside your door! 

Our favorite place to stay in El Nido is Corong-Corong Beach and they should be on every Philippines backpacking itinerary . If you’re staying on an island renowned for its white sand beaches, why not stay right on one of the best! This area is also great for partying because much of the best nightlife takes place right on the beach. 

Step outside your room and into the water, and spend all day lazing on the sand sipping on cocktails. You’ll forget grey skies ever existed! Especially with the El Nido trip itinerary we’ve got planned.

If you want to see more of the local culture, stay in El Nido Town. You’ll have easy access to all the tours from here and most stops on our El Nido itinerary. You can also meet people, local and foreign, and find fantastic Philippines food! The accommodation in the town itself is also more budget-friendly, so broke backpackers can still afford to explore the famously beautiful area without breaking the bank!

Check out this post for more advice on where to stay in El Nido!

Best Hostel in El Nido – Outpost Beach Hostel

With a lively, social atmosphere and a fantastic location right on Corong-Corong beach, we cannot picture a better budget option! You’ll meet new people, have a rave of a time, and spend all the time on the beach or island hopping. The rooms are lovely, and you can relax in the lounge or the in-house restaurant! 

If you prefer to stay in hostels, this is our guide to the best hostels in El Nido .

Best Airbnb in El Nido – Magestic Hut In The Jungle

You cannot find a better experience in the Philippines staying here. You get to stay in private hut!

This Airbnb has the number one view we have seen on the site, and it doesn’t end there. The owners are totally switched on about saving energy and using the resources mother nature gave us.

They even teach you about the permaculture, let you pick from the garden, and show you just how their solar panel system works in the tropics. And most of all, the place is geared towards travelers coming through, so they made the ideal hangout location on site.

Just sip on some coconuts or have a San Miguel while you meet new people staying nearby or on the location. As for location, there’s nothing better than having the option to go hiking in your backyard, but if you are looking for some social life there are some awesome coffee shops within walking distance with the choice of neat little cafes that will definitely have halo halo, – a must-try local dessert!

Best Budget Hotel in El Nido – Cuna Hotel

La Cuna has bright, spacious rooms, comfortable beds, and terrific staff. It is El Nido’s best budget hotel, with a great pool and plenty of amenities. Dine and drink in your room or at the hotel bar or restaurant, and relax in the peaceful, in-town hotel. 

Best Luxury Hotel in El Nido –  Balai Adlao

This charming hotel is situated in the center of El Nido. A few minutes walk from everything you could want, the hotel is a perfect home base! Enjoy a buffet breakfast, a private balcony, and great services. The hotel is ideal for solo travelers and couples, and it’s the best place to stay in El Nido in three days! 

El Nido is such a small town that you certainly don’t need to catch public transport! You can comfortably walk everywhere, or even rent a bicycle and explore the greater El Nido area by bike! Most hotels rent out bicycles, which means they are also a very convenient option.

If you’re spending more than three days in El Nido, you may want to explore beyond the island! We’ve found some great tours for that, but catching public transport and exploring on your own is also a great option. While you cannot discover many of the little islands and snorkeling coves on your own, you can visit the other areas on Palawan island .

The island is massive, and it can take almost a day to cross it by bus or van, so choose your destinations wisely! The vans are like large taxis, and can take some time filling up. They will usually stay in one town until they are up to capacity, so if you choose to travel this way, hop into one that looks pretty full!

The bus is the cheapest and second most popular option for inter-town travel on Palawan. They travel every one to two hours, so you’ll never have to wait too long!

Las Cabanas Beach | Big Lagoon | Small Lagoon | Zipline | Nagkalit-kalit Waterfalls | Full Moon Party

Day one in El Nido combines all of the island town’s best activities: swimming, tanning, and beach parties! If you’re wondering what to do in El Nido, look no further! 

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Swim and Tan on Las Cabanas Beach

• Why it’s awesome: Pristine beaches and gorgeous coastal waters.
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Get breakfast at the casual Las Cabanas Beach Resort.

One of the main reasons we love to visit El Nido is for the absurdly beautiful beaches! That means they have to be first on the list. Step out of your hotel and onto the sand or make the short walk from town. 

The waters are warm and clear and the scene picturesque. Take a dip in the water before relaxing on the sand or on a lounger! You can spend all day here, but since there’s so much to do, we recommend a few hours to rejuvenate and shed all your stress. Afterward, you will move onto the rest of the thrilling day’s activities on your El Nido itinerary!

Most beaches have bars and cafes lining a section of them and loungers available. So, you can enjoy a mojito or a beer while you catch that tan.

Be sure to apply a lot of sunscreen, as the sun here is very hot. You will also want waterproof so that you can dive into the water whenever you feel a little warm! For more advice on what to bring to El Nido, check out our Philippines packing list !

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Kayak in the Big Lagoon

• Why it’s awesome: Limestone cliffs and crystal make this one of the most gorgeous stops.
• Cost: A kayak costs USD $27 for the day, or USD $8 per hour
• Food nearby: Pack a picnic- the Big Lagoon is left untouched by restaurants and eateries!

Rent a kayak or join a tour of El Nido’s Big Lagoon! The lagoon is massive and impressive, with limestone cliffs rising up on every side, and clear water revealing equally interesting formations below the water!

You can spend hours here exploring nooks and crannies and jumping off your boat into the ocean. There’s both deep and shallow water, so people of all ages and swimming abilities will be comfortable. 

You can also grab a snorkel in El Nido to better explore the Lagoon below the water. As soon as you’re tired, you can climb back into your kayak and paddle over to the next exciting area!

This is one of the most picturesque natural places in the world, so don’t forget your best travel camera ! You can also hire a local to row for you so that you can find the best parts of the giant lagoon easily and save all your strength for swimming.

Insider Tip: There are spiny sea urchins in much of the lagoon, so be sure to stick to the deeper areas, or find a shallow spot that’s clear of them!  

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Explore the Small Lagoon

• Why it’s awesome: The Small Lagoon is so beautiful and very close to El Nido town.
• Cost: Like the Big Lagoon, a kayak costs USD $27 for the day, or USD $8 per hour.
• Food nearby: Pack a picnic to enjoy, because there are no restaurants around!

This local paradise is one of the best El Nido attractions! Rent a kayak or go with your tour group to spend hours in this little lagoon. The visibility is superb, and the crystal waters stay pristine no matter the weather. This makes it a great place to visit during those rainy months!

The water is warm and much of the lagoon is shallower than the other snorkeling spots. There are sometimes small jellies, which are wonderful to see but will stop you from swimming! They are so ephemeral and sweet though, you won’t be too bothered!

The views are amazing, and there’s so much to see and admire. It gets quite crowded during peak season. That’s why we’ve made it a later stop for the day so that you miss both the hottest time of the day (and the busiest)!

Like its larger partner, this lagoon has plenty of great cliff jumping spots and gorgeous limestone formations, as well as a few caves to explore.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Zipline

• Why it’s awesome: Combines adrenaline-pumping fun and great views.
• Cost: USD $10 one way.
• Food nearby: Grab a snack at The Beach Shack!

Get your adrenaline pumping on a zipline! The El Nido zipline stretches across the beach and the bay to the nearby Snake Island. At 750m long, it’s such a great way to see the sights as you fly along!

Once you’re on Snake Island, why not stay awhile and do some snorkeling. You can then walk back to the mainland at low tide, or swim back to shore! It’s an easy swim being so close, but if you’d prefer, you can also be pulled back up the zipline, for an additional USD $8.

The walk up to the zipline platform is steep, but only takes 5-10 minutes, so it’s suitable for everyone. You can also reach it by scooter or tricycle if you’re renting one for the day!

Your departure is Las Cabanas Beach, which is a great place to return for a beer and a bit of relaxing after the activity!

Insider Tip: Wear walking shoes rather than slip slops. The short trek up is steep and rocky.

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Nagkalit-kalit Waterfalls

• Why it’s awesome: It’s a beautiful waterfall and a lovely walk.
• Food nearby: Pack a picnic to enjoy at the falls.

Leave the beach behind and explore deeper into Palawan island! We love this El Nido itinerary stop not only for the waterfall but for the walk there. It’s a light hike. You’ll stroll through exotic vegetation and spot some creatures before coming up onto the impressive waterfall. You’ll also be walking through the river several times, so prepare to get a little wet!

You can swim in the small pool, and take plenty of photos (it’s a great Instagram opportunity). If the water flow isn’t too heavy, swim under the waterfall! The falling water feels like a massage on your shoulders and head.

The hike is a casual forty minute walk through the wilderness. This is the only stop on your itinerary for El Nido that goes deep into the jungle, so enjoy the adventure! You can hire a guide to avoid getting lost or throw caution to the wind and explore alone.

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Full Moon Party

• Why it’s awesome: You can party all night with free-spirited folk.
• Cost: Free entrance!
• Food nearby: Find local food and drinks at Marimegmeg Beach Bar.

If you book your trip to El Nido during the full moon, you’re in great luck! If you haven’t booked your flights yet, see if you can catch this monthly event. The full moon parties are legendary, and it’s one of the best things to do in El Nido!

Don your brightest clothes, get a little luminescent paint and glitter, and embrace the free-spirited fun! With drinking, dancing, and the opportunity to meet and bond with new people from all over the world, this is guaranteed to be a fantastic night. 

The beach party includes live reggae bands and great DJs who know just how to keep the party going all night. You’ll also see fire dancers and giant bonfires, where you can dance or sit and enjoy the night. 

If you’re not in El Nido, Palawan during full moon, don’t fret. You may not have all the best the island has to offer, but beach parties are a common sight in El Nido, and there’s always something going on!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Cathedral Caves | Shimizu Island Snorkeling | Vigan Island | Balay Cuyonon Museum | Sibaltan Mangroves | Ille Cave | RoofTop Bar and Boutique

The second day on our two day itinerary in El Nido will take you snorkeling and island hopping, as well as exploring some of the mainland! Set out on a self-led El Nido walking tour and explore all the great sights in and beyond the town and municipality. 

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Cathedral Caves

• Why it’s awesome: The gorgeous soaring rock formations are really impressive.
• Cost: Boat rentals are negotiable, but expect to pay ~ USD $80.
• Food nearby: Boat tours include lunch, but if you’re going yourself, pack a picnic.

On day two of your El Nido itinerary, catch a boat to the gorgeous Cathedral Caves for a natural wonder that competes with Europe’s best cathedrals! The cave is almost hidden to the eye from outside, so you will need a guide. Once you get inside though, the stone ceiling soars up in spires and chutes!

You can’t swim here, but there is so much beauty to marvel at. It’s the perfect stop before you head a little out of El Nido to snorkel, the next activity on our El Nido itinerary! Be sure to bring your camera.

Insider Tip: If you’re only looking for places to swim, skip this stop- it’s absolutely gorgeous, but strong currents and the possibility of sea snakes make it unfit for swimming!

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Go Snorkeling off Shimizu Island

• Why it’s awesome: Shimizu island has some of Palawan’s best snorkeling!
• Cost: Pay an environmental fee of USD $10
• Food nearby: Find something tasty at the vendors who sell fresh-tasting food at the beach.

A must-see on our two-day itinerary in El Nido, Shimizu Beach, has as much to admire under the water as above it! Explore the underwater wonderland, admiring the multicolored fish that make the coral home. 

You’ll find creatures large and small swimming around the otherworldly metropolis. The corals here are still alive and vibrant with color. Swim slowly and see everything you can. Who knows, maybe you’ll even see a cuttlefish or an octopus, changing its color and texture to suit its location?

The island itself is small and charming, and locals have set up small cafes and shops to cater to those that snorkel and swim here. The rocky landscape is also very interesting to explore, and you can jump off the small cliffs into the water (if you find a safe place). Remember to never  walk on coral. Only bring children to this activity that are old enough to respect the coral.

You can spend all day here and want for nothing, whether you’re renting a boat and doing the trip on your own, or joining a tour. One of the best places to visit in El Nido, this lovely island is the perfect place for all ages to explore! 

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Vigan Island

• Why it’s awesome: Explore the little island separated from El Nido by a sandbar.
• Cost: Free access!
• Food nearby: Get lunch at The Nesting Table, just off El Nido’s coast, or find ‘street’ food on the little island.

No trip to El Nido is complete without visiting Vigan Island! Also known as Snake Island, this is one of the top El Nido points of interest. It can be reached by walking along a picturesque sandbar at low tide or swam to at high tide. 

The island’s nickname, thankfully, does not arise from a proliferation of snakes! Rather, it was dubbed that because of the snake-like shape of the sandbar that leads to it. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy the sun and swim in the clear shallow water!

On the walk up to the viewing deck at the island’s highest point, you’ll walk through a lovely Mangrove forest! See if you can spot any of the indigenous monkeys. Remember, if you do spot these beautiful creatures, don’t try to touch them as they are wild!

>It’s a terrifically calming stop on the El Nido itinerary, and very photo-worthy. Just avoid peak times, as it can get very busy!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Balay Cuyonon Museum

• Why it’s awesome: It’s a great opportunity to see how the locals lived.
• Cost: Admission is by donation so you choose how much to pay!
• Food nearby: Get something light and local at Efrena Beach Restaurant in Sibaltan town.

We think it’s always important to learn a little about the local culture and history when you go on holiday! It allows you to appreciate everything you see in a far deeper way and with valuable context.

This small museum shows how Cuyunons lived and how some continue to live, after arriving on the island thousands of years ago! The museum, a traditionally-styled replica of a Cuyonon homestead, is situated right on the beach in the town of Sibaltan. 

It’s an interactive museum, allowing you not only to learn about how the Cuyonons lived but experience it yourself! The museum was established so that local Cuyonons can learn where they come from and maintain an element of their traditions and culture, and so that those touring El Nido can learn more about them as well!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Sibaltan Mangroves

• Why it’s awesome: Beautiful and ethereal, kayaking among the mangroves is amazing!
• Food nearby: You can find some fantastic food at Tangway Resto Gallery.

For a totally different aesthetic, rent a kayak or join a boat trip of the Sibaltan river running between Mangrove plantations . These beautifully bending trees line the riverbank for a kilometer, and they are a really lovely sight! 

You can rent a kayak or two from the friendly locals and explore the river on your own- there’s nothing too dangerous in the waters or surroundings, so a guide is not necessary although you may prefer to have one so that you know just where to go!

This lovely stop is another example of how little El Nido optimizes for tourist attractions and retains a natural, authentic atmosphere. It’s a relief when you grow accustomed to destinations where you can see nothing without forking out some cash!

Day 2 / Stop 6 – Ille Cave

• Why it’s awesome: It’s a network of caves and a museum!
• Cost: Free.
• Food nearby: Enjoy casual local cuisine at the nearby Minnuya Restaurant.

Few people planning a trip to El Nido know about the fascinating Ille Cave! This jacked limestone tower is surrounded by forest and fields and offers some of the most interesting mainland views! 

The site contains so much history that it’s been made into a museum! Many artifacts have been found in the cave, and it was certainly once used for shelter by ancient tribes. You can find many of the artifacts still housed here with displays and descriptions! Archeologists continue to research the area, so there’s new information all the time.

Stroll through the impressive chambers and discover hidden gems! The hike up takes about forty minutes, and it’s challenging and difficult. You can come here with a guide, or you can find it yourself if you’re willing to spend a little more time looking for it! Locals can always point you in the right direction.

Insider Tip: While you’re there, you should definitely make the extra walk up to the top of the mountain. It’s not far and the incredible views are well worth it. But wear hiking shoes, as the terrain is rocky!

Day 2 / Stop 7 – RoofTop Bar and Boutique

• Why it’s awesome: Great vibes, good music and plenty of cocktails.
• Food nearby: The food at the bar itself is amazing and very well priced.

If you’re looking to have some nighttime fun with a laid-back atmosphere, RoopTop is the best bar in town. You can go barefoot, relaxed, and enjoy cocktails and good people without a thought of leaving.

The bar plays reggae and chill dance music. They also serve a great variety of drinks and are known for their perfect, strong Cosmopolitans. Likely to become your go-to place for a few drinks in El Nido, the RoofTop Bar welcomes all! 

If you’re looking to party hard and dance all night, it may not be where you’ll spend all your time. Even then, it’s the perfect first stop.

The three-story bar offers plenty of space to relax, with futons, couches, and floor pillows arranged around tables. The happy hour lasts long and the views are lovely. You really can’t go wrong with this stop on our El Nido Itinerary!

Outpost Beach Hostel

With a lively, social atmosphere and a fantastic location right on Corong-Corong beach, we cannot picture a better budget option!

• Reception (limited hours)
• Airport Transfers

El Nido Yoga Class | El Kusina | Mountain Biking | Canopy Walk | Sailing El Nido’s Ocean

With three days in El Nido, it’s time to experience more of the local culture and lesser-known El Nido landmarks! These activities and attractions are a wonderful way to get to know the locals better and experience more than the average tourist.

Go to an El Nido Yoga Class

• Choose between a morning and evening yoga class so that your day is free.
• Relax and get in touch with your body while challenging it in this beautiful setting.
• Classes are designed for complete beginners to the highest levels!

What better way to relax in paradise than with a yoga class with views over the island and ocean? We love this activity in the itinerary for El Nido because it’s such a different experience to most, and there can be no better place for us to recommend a little yoga! 

If you enjoy regular yoga and have a few flexible skills up your sleeve, you can join one of the more advanced classes. If you’ve never done it before but like the idea of doing some calm exercise to work off those great boozy nights, the beginners classes are fantastic!

You can take the class before or after an island hopping tour or a day spent swimming and enjoying the sun! Our favorite is the evening class, because the only way to improve a well-run paradise-setting yoga class is to throw in a sunset. It will certainly give you a good night’s rest. Of course, it’ll get you loose and limber for the night’s dancing!

There are a few yoga places you can choose between in El Nido. Our favorite is Namaste El Nido – their instructors are professional and good, their different classes are suited to different skill levels, and the view from the yoga rooms is beautiful!

Another great option is the simply named Yoga El Nido. Here the views are even more impressive, and their instructors are also fantastic. This studio, however, is only open from 4:30pm to 6:30pm.

Take a Cooking Class at El Kusina

• Learn how to make delicious Filipino food and learn about their lifestyle.
• Enjoy a few rounds of rum while you cook up a storm!
• Start with a visit to the local market and choose your fresh ingredients.

We always love taking cooking classes while we travel! What better memento to bring home than the ability to cook some of your favorite local dishes! This way the amazing memories can sink in every time you make a little Filipino cuisine.

El Kusina is the oldest running cooking class in El Nido, and depending on when you go, you may find it’s the only one! The experience is fantastic. Nina runs the classes with modern equipment in a simple, traditional setting. She and her partner started the classes to address a lack of tourism activities in the town itself. 

It’s a wonderful way to learn about the workings of Filipino food and cooking practices . You’ll also learn more about the local Filipino culture, and get a new appreciation for the beauty of El Nido!

At El Kusina, you can choose between private sessions and a spot in public ones! Both are brilliant, as you can either meet and have fun with new people, or bond with the group you came with! You’ll learn how to cook five different dishes, including starters, mains, and a pudding. You’ll even get the online cookbook, so you’ll never forget how to make it! The classes take four to five hours, and you can choose to do it in the morning or the evening.

Mountain Biking through the Forest

• Fantastic adventure activity and way to experience El Nido in a different way.
• Rent a bicycle for a couple of hours or for the whole day and explore Palawan.
• You can choose between a bicycle tour or self-led adventure.

If you have any experience with mountain biking , you’ll know how different it is to ordinary road biking and how fantastically fun! Rent a bicycle at one of the rental places dotted around El Nido, or get one at your hostel- most accommodations provide them at a reduced fee!

Palawan has a good amount of mountain trails ideal for mountain biking. If you have an experience, or are at minimum lead by someone with a fair bit of experience, then find a trail map and pick up some bikes! If not, we suggest you join a group. El Nido tours are organized daily, and you can join or create a group. You can also get a tour guide with your bicycle rental and tour Palawan that way!

The best part about exploring Palawan beyond the beaches is that you’ll come across hidden villages nestled among the hills! Cycle among tropical rainforests and spot the creatures that make it home. Then say helo to the locals and see if you can buy a memento. The jungle is pristine and the villages virtually untouched by the outside world. 

You can take it easy and follow trails that tackle only slight uphills. Alternatively, challenge yourself to a day of hard riding and see some of Palawan’s best mountain views!

El Nido Canopy Walk

• A safe way to see the limestone cliffs of El Nido from up high.
• Spectacular and Instagrammable views over the island!
• Can feel physically challenging, but you have time and a great guide.

A fantastic way to see El Nido is from above! Trek the canopy walk to get the best views in El Nido. The walk takes about an hour and includes some steep sections which can be physically challenging but the view from the top is so worth it! Just pace yourself and bring plenty of water. 

Once you’re at the top, you’ll have views all along the canopy. Every moment is worth a photo, so don’t forget your camera! You can also include the dream catcher section, and we think it’s well worth the little extra cost. Here you can stand, bounce, or lie on a network of ropes in the structure of a dream catcher, but what it catches is you! What a dream!

Despite the uphill, this is not a very challenging walk, and experienced hikers may find it a little boring. You can always take the day and hike up well-marked trails to the top of the limestone cliffs. Just keep in mind that it’s safer to have a guide, as the cliffs can be treacherous, and you should only go if you have a full day to dedicate to the activity.

Sailing El Nido’s Ocean

• Beginners can take a course to learn to sail in idyllic conditions off El Nido’s coast.
• You can also join a two day expedition to explore beyond Palawan.
• Watch or join in on weekly Sunday sailing races. There are activities for everyone.

Another fantastic El Nido activity is sailing on a catamaran! This is an absolutely awesome way to experience Palawan’s gorgeous bays. Find secluded beaches all to yourself and watch the turquoise water pass you with a light spray!

You can rent a catamaran for a few hours or for the day and learn to sail on your own. The catamarans are very handy, because their double hull makes even complete beginners tip with difficulty.

You can also take a sailing course for an hour, and learn all the ins and outs of it! You can then go take a well-deserved rest and move onto a swim and tan, or then rent the catamaran and take it out for a spin on your own! If you’re spending the weekend in El Nido, be sure to check out their Sunday sailing fun! It’s a popular activity both for locals and tourists.

For something completely different, go on an overnight sailing-camping trip! No experience is needed, and you’ll spend the day sailing, and the night on a private island. If you don’t like camping, you can also choose to stay at a cottage on Snake Island!

All meals on the trip are included, and you can go with a group of two through twenty! This is such a unique way to experience Palawan. Enjoy the challenge and relax with a laid-back itinerary!

El Nido is considered a very safe place to travel! The island paradise experiences very little violent crimes. Petty theft does occur, and it’s always a good idea to keep your cash and valuables safe and carry as little on you as possible. Most hostels and hotels have lockers available- unless you’re sure yours has one, bring a padlock.

An important safety warning is to avoid drinking tap water. Like on most islands, the water can be unsafe to drink and lead to a very uncomfortable vacation in El Nido, if not hospitalization. Don’t stress, you can buy water at every corner, and most hostels provide it for purchase or for free!

Keep in mind that ATMs are hard to find in the island town. It’s better to come prepared with cash in the local currency. You will also find that bartering lowers the prices of many products, as locals are trying to make some extra money from tourists’ ignorance about local prices.

Jellyfish and sea urchins may share parts of the ocean with you when you go. There is also at times broken glass in the sand from inconsiderate tourists. Wear slip slops or rock shoes to ensure you don’t cut your feet! However, if you do get stung , apply vinegar to help with the pain.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for El Nido

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Go beyond a three day itinerary in El Nido, and explore the greater Palawan! These day trips take you to the nearby islands and to some of Palawan’s other great towns.

Island Hopping Tour A Lagoons and Beaches

One of our favorite day trips from El Nido! This is the perfect day out, and you’re back before the nighttime celebrations begin! Spend the day cruising among the islands and jumping off your boat into the warm turquoise waters. 

You’ll have plenty of time to snorkel and spot some fantastic fish and coral reefs. Maybe you’ll even see a turtle lazily gliding by! Island hopping is everyone’s favorite activity in El Nido, Palawan and for good reason. Spend the day experiencing all the best of paradise!

This El Nido tour package includes a barbeque lunch on one of the islands and a very laid-back itinerary. All you need to do is make sure you’re on the boat before it sets off for the next island!

Puerto Princesa Underground River Day Tour

For something totally out of the ordinary, take a tour of the Puerto Princesa Underground River ! The eight-hour trip takes you through the incredible river- the longest navigable underground river in the world!

The tour includes kayaking through the sequence of caves in an otherworldly adventure. You’ll see a unique ecosystem of fauna and flora as you delicately explore. The tour also includes a buffet lunch of Filipino delicacies! 

You will have to make your way to Puerto Princesa City for this tour. The trip takes about four hours, so it’s a good idea to stay in this area for an extra day. You can easily find a bus or taxi to make the trip! 

Puerto Princesa: Half Day City Tour

While you’re in Puerto Princesa, catch a tour to see all the best of the charming coastal city! Join a walking tour that will take you to all the city’s highlights and attractions, or you can do a driven tour to tick more off and enjoy a rest.

Tours stop at the lovely Roman Catholic Cathedral, the weaving centre where you can learn about traditional Filipino weaving practices, and the World War II fort! You’ll also get to taste local delicacies, like hopia ! 

With an enthusiastic local guide, this is the perfect way to spend the day before returning to El Nido. 

Coron: Town Tour with Maquinit Hot Spring

Another of the best day trips from El Nido is this town tour! The colorful town of Coron is a beautifully photogenic place to visit. The tour takes you to all its top highlights, and then on to the saltwater hot spring!

Here you can relax with gorgeous views and a pleasantly warm soak. Trek up the 700 step climb to the Mount Tapyas Viewing Deck, where you’ll enjoy unparalleled views over Coron! It’s a beautiful sight, and one you shouldn’t miss while on this side of the island! 

The tours start in Coron, so you’ll have to catch a bus or van to the town. That’s why our next day trips sets out from here too! If you want to stay the night in Coron, read our guide on where to stay in Coron .

Coron: Barracuda Lake, Skeleton Wreck, Twin Lagoon Boat Tour

Explore the thriving life that make an old shipwreck home on this brilliant Palawan tour from Coron. This is another one of our favorite island hopping tours, and includes a  visit to an old wreckage where you can swim among the newly formed corals and imagine what once was.

You’ll have a fantastic local-style buffet for lunch on one of the islands! Stop at some of the areas best snorkeling and swimming areas, and enjoy a day out on the boat.

One of our favorite parts of these island hopping tours is that even the snorkeling masks are included, so you can enjoy the trip without concerning yourself about any of the little details!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their El Nido itinerary.

Why should I visit El Nido?

Because it’s one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever set your eyes on in the entire world! It’s pure vibes!

What is the best thing to do in El Nido during summer?

Summer is all year round but the rainy season does hit hard here. Island hopping is what it’s all about and it’s best in the dry season.

How do you travel around El Nido?

Hop on one of the tricycles, which are a bit like a tuk tuk and are super cheap and a fun way to get around!

What are the most fun things to do in El Nido?

Island hopping of course is the most popular, but you can also explore Ille Cave and kayak through Sibaltan Mangroves.

It may be small, but El Nido, Palawan is an incredible place to visit! There’s so much to do, and there’s a surprising variety of activities to fit into a three day itinerary in El Nido. We’ve put together all the greatest activities and day trips, so that you don’t have to wonder what to do in El Nido!

Palawan is certainly a holiday destination for those looking for an island paradise. This means that there are not hundreds of activities for every kind of traveler, but there’s much more than enough to keep you entertained! Spend time lazing on the perfect sand beaches, snorkeling in the crystal clear water, and exploring the island’s natural beauty and historic culture.

This El Nido itinerary can be used for those spending only one day in El Nido or a whole week! Space out the activities after day two, or fit everything into a weekend. You’re bound to have a brilliant island vacation!

Rhenz Caguioa

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EL NIDO PALAWAN Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary & Budget

Here’s our DIY EL NIDO PALAWAN TRAVEL GUIDE BLOG! In this post, you’ll find sample EL NIDO ITINERARIES, breakdown of expenses, and recommendations on hotels, resorts, tours, and things to do. Hope this helps you plan your next Palawan trip!

When I was a child and conjured up an image of a tropical paradise in a daydream, this looked exactly like this world.

When our boat glided through the waves, it was as though we sailed into a karst world straight from a fantasy film. As we moved closer, the cliffs appeared to magically part, as if ushering us in, inviting us to come in and see what the island had to offer. As we moved, these magnificent giant rocks slowly revealed white, sparkling beaches adorned with coconut trees. In this world, “ugly” is either banned or non-existent. (Then I thought, “Holy eff, what am I doing here?”)

“This is my Narnia,” I mumbled to myself, thinking that the many years I had spent in the closet finally paid off. I chuckled.

How I got here was a matter of fate. El Nido was nowhere under my radar at the time. I was under a foolish impression that only the filthy rich could afford it. But as I was simply browsing the web, I chanced upon a piso sale. I wasn’t enslaved by travel then. A full-time corporate job had the whip in a tight grip. But it was the perfect moment. A classic corporate-slave-meets-freedom moment. Every stress that work had brought me over the past few weeks was blown away by the wind, washed away by the waves of El Nido.

Back then, El Nido was a bit different. It wasn’t as crowded or as developed. I could walk down the length of the town’s main street without running into another tourist. Back then, it wasn’t easy to reach. There weren’t that many flights, and the ride from Puerto Princesa would eat up over seven hours on a half-unpaved road.

But as I stood in the middle of it, I knew this would be the first of my many affairs with El Nido. Over the next few years, El Nido would be my go-to place whenever I needed a little bit of uplifting, even despite not being easily accessible. I returned almost every year. That’s the thing about El Nido: it’s playing hard-to-get. But it’s the kind of destination you’d want to marry.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING EL NIDO

The municipality of El Nido encompasses the northernmost tip of the main island of Palawan and the 45 rocky islands dotting Bacuit Bay. A protected area, El Nido is a treasure trove of marine life and spectacular seascape, earning it a consistent place among the best beach destinations in the world.

Although a first-class municipality, El Nido remains a quiet town. The town proper is tiny, with very few big establishments other than small travel agencies, hotels, restaurants, and stores. The nearest city is Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan, which is five hours away.

Together with Coron and Puerto Princesa, El Nido is part of the popular tourism triumvirate in Palawan. These are the three most visited destinations in the province. El Nido sits in the middle, accessible from both Coron to its north and Puerto Princesa to its south.

More info you need to know:

• Language : Tagalog is spoken by the majority. But English is widely understood and spoken. A significant fraction of the population also speaks Cuyonon and other Visayan languages.
• Time zone: UTC+8 (Philippine Standard Time). Same time as Singapore and Malaysia; one hour behind Japan.
• Currency : Philippine peso (PHP, ₱). PHP100 = USD 2, EUR 1.75, SGD 2.75, MYR 8.25, IDR 28,200 (as of March 2020).
• Modes of payment : Cash! Most establishments prefer cash. Only a few resorts and restaurants accept credit card transactions. Many tour agencies are on cash-only basis.

WHERE TO STAY IN EL NIDO

Best area to stay in el nido.

El Nido’s poblacion is composed of four barangays (villages): Buena Suerte, Corong-Corong, Maligaya, and Masagana. Together, they occupy two small peninsulas that jut out into Bacuit Bay.

What most people refer to as the “Town Proper” is actually the settlement parallel to the beach in Brgy. Buena Suerte. Just next to it is Brgy. Masagana, best known for several more resorts and Calaan Beach. Corong-corong lies on the southern cape, with its nooks and crannies filled with fine sand.

There are four main areas where you can stay:

• Town Proper (Buena Suerte) . This is where most of the action is. Its streets are flanked with tour offices, small hotels, and restaurants. Of all these areas, it was the first to be developed. It also has a teensy bit of nightlife.
• Corong-Corong . Tucked in the southern beaches of the poblacion, it has that isolated tropical paradise feel. It’s the area nearest the bus terminal.
• Calaan Beach (Masagana) . Resorts have also begun flourishing in the area, but just like Corong Corong, it doesn’t feel crowded either.
• The Islands . Accommodations on the islands are mostly luxury resorts, which are totally expensive, so let’s pretend they don’t exist. LOL

If you’re in El Nido for some peace and quiet, stay in either Corong-Corong or Calaan. But if you just want convenience, the town proper is still the best choice.

Top Budget Resorts & Hostels

My favorite place to stay in El Nido is SPIN DESIGNER HOSTEL . It’s clean and well-maintained, has friendly service, and an environment that is conducive to forging friendships with other travelers. Because it’s in the town proper, almost everything I need is within easy reach.

Coincidentally, SPIN HOSTEL is one of the top-rated properties on Agoda, so I guess I’m not the only fan. Here are the rest of the highest ranking budget accommodations as scored by online users. Note that not all of these are in the areas we think are ideal, but they have the best scores among the affordable properties.

• Spin Designer Hostel. Town Proper. Our best hostel experience in El Nido. Perfect for backpackers and solo travelers. Offers dorms and private rooms, with fantastic common areas. Check Rates and Availability! ✅
• Cabanas de Nacpan Camping Resort. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• The Cavern Pod Hotel & Specialty Cafe. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Pawikan Hostel El Nido. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• AngelNido Resort. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• David’s Guest House. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Aside from these, you can find basic, no-frills dormitories that offer beds for P800 and below per night. One of these is At The Moment Hostel in the town proper and Dormitels.ph in Corong-corong (P800 per night), but I haven’t tried either.

Search for more El Nido Hotels!

How to get to el nido, manila to el nido (direct flight).

AirSwift is the only airline that flies from Manila directly to Lio Airport in El Nido. They operate up to four flights per day.

An off-peak one-way fare is at P5100 (including taxes, a meal in Manila, and welcome snacks El Nido). An additional P200 is collected for 10kg baggage allowance.

At the airport, you can travel by tricycle to the city center. Travel time: 30 minutes. Fare: 200.

San Vicente Airport to El Nido

Another way to access El Nido is via the newly opened San Vicente Airport, located in a neighboring town. Philippine Airlines flies daily from Clark to San Vicente. Travel time is 1 hour 40 minutes.

At San Vicente Airport, you can ride a van to El Nido departing at 1pm. Fare is P400.

It will terminate at the station in El Nido. From there, you can take a tricycle to your hotel or resort. Fare is P50.

Puerto Princesa Airport to El Nido

If Airswift’s rates are a bit taller than your budget, you can fly to Puerto Princesa instead. Then travel by land from there.

Puerto Princesa (PPS) has an international airport that is now much bigger and more equipped. Flights to PPS are generally cheaper than direct flights to El Nido. And they can go extremely low during seat sales. AirAsia and Cebu Pacific Air offer the lowest fares but the published rates don’t include baggage allowance, seat selection, and meals. Philippine Airlines’ have all these add-ons included in their published rates.

To reach El Nido from Puerto Princesa International Airport, you have two options: by van and by bus.

This is probably the most popular option among tourists because it’s slightly faster. If you book in advance, the van can pick you up at the airport and take you straight to El Nido in 5-6 hours.

Klook offers two transfer services: regular and DayTripper.

If for whatever reason you can’t book with Klook, here are the companies offering this service:

• Eulen Joy Express Contact No.: +63 915 829 3735 Facebook page
• Lexxuss Shuttle Contact No.: +63 917 686 1118 Facebook page
• Fort Wally Travel & Tours Contact No.: +63 917 276 2875 Facebook page

Travel time is usually 5-6 hours . Based on experience, these vans are fast. That’s both a good thing and a bad thing. I sometimes find myself saying a silent prayer in the middle of the journey. And I’m not even religious!

Regular fare is usually between P550 and P600 . However, Fort Wally sometimes brings the cost down to P450 when they have a promo. Locals usually get a discount.

Some of these vans don’t leave until they’re full . But it doesn’t take that long these days.

All van journeys stop halfway for a quick restroom and snack break.

The bus is another option. It’s my preferred option, actually. Buses are more comfortable now than before, more comfortable than the vans (at least in my opinion). Wider legroom, cooler temperature, and just bigger breathing space overall. Haha. The downside: it’s slower, taking 6-7 hours. And there are fewer journeys per day. But if you’re not in a big hurry, it’s a great option.

Here’s how to take the bus to El Nido.

• Walk to the gate of the airport.
• Hail a tricycle and ask to be taken to San Jose Terminal. Fare is P120 per ride. Split the cost if you’re a group. Alternatively, you can take a trike+jeepney combo, which is cheaper. But since I’m guessing you have heavy bags in tow, just go straight to the San Jose Terminal.
• Board a bus to El Nido.

Two bus companies to choose from: RoRo Bus and Cherry Bus.

RoRo Bus Ordinary: P290 Airconditioned: P380 Operating hours: 5am-9pm Frequency: Every 2 hours

Cherry Bus Ordinary: P385 Airconditioned: P480 Operating hours: 4am-10pm Frequency: Every 2 hours

Both buses will make several stops along the way to pick up more passengers, the longest will be in Roxas.

The bus will terminate at the station in El Nido. From there, you can take a tricycle to your hotel or resort. Fare is P50.

Coron to El Nido

Montenegro Fastcraft launched in September 2016 a new Coron-El Nido (and vice versa) route, which cuts the travel time to only 4 hours. Schedule and rates below.

EL NIDO TOURS

One great thing about El Nido is that most key attractions, especially the islands and beaches, are grouped into tour packages. The tours are also regulated and standardized. Boatmen and travel agencies must abide by the rules and guidelines that they set in order to provide a smoother and more consistent service to tourists. A price ceiling is in effect, which means tour operators cannot sell tours at rates higher than what has been set by the government.

The two most visited spots in El Nido are the Small Lagoon and Big Lagoon of Miniloc Island, both used to be part of Tour A, which covers Miniloc Island. For the longest time, Tour A was the most popular island tour, attracting more tourists than all the other three by a mile. In effect, these sites are prone to overcrowding. To address the problem, in November 2018, the local government split the two apart and reassigned Small Lagoon to Tour D.

If you’re alone or a small group, you will be merged with other smaller groups to fill a boat. If you want a private boat, you can charter one too.

These rules apply:

• You can visit only one premium spot per day. Premium spots are: Big Lagoon (Tour A), Small Lagoon (Tour D), and Secret Beach (Tour C). You can’t visit Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon on the same day. You can’t visit Secret Beach and Small Lagoon on the same day, either. Combination tours are now prohibited.
• Pre-registration is required for visitors going to Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, or Secret Beach. This allows the government to monitor and manage the volume of tourists. To register, just give your name and contact details to the tour operator when you book and they will register for you.
• Additional fees are collected at certain spots. Yes, these are on top of the tour rate and the eco-tourism development fee (environmental fee). We’ll indicate these fees below.
• Book in advance. Only a limited number of visitors are allowed on a premium spot on any given day.
• Lunch is included in group tour packages. The boatmen will prepare lunch on one of the stops during the tour. Lunch must be composed of the following: grilled fish, grilled pork or chicken, rice, vegetables, and fruits (usually bananas, watermelons, or pineapples). WATER is usually not included, so bring your own.

Here are the details of each tour. I’ve been fortunate enough to try all of these tours!

I also included Klook links for Tours A, B, C, and D below. Klook’s offers are lower than the standard rates and include hotel pickup.

If it’s your first time in El Nido, choose Tour A .

Tour A takes you around the limestone paradise of Miniloc Island and its Big Lagoon. The sights at Miniloc are usually the ones perfectly captured in postcards. There are a couple of beach stops: one in Simizu Island and another at the 7 Commandos Beach in mainland El Nido.

Simizu Island is the usual lunch stop. But if it gets too crowded, the boatman picks an alternative, usually Payong-Payong Beach. But if you really want to see Simizu (or Payong Payong), just let the boatman know so he wouldn’t skip it.

You can go kayaking around Big Lagoon! Let the boatman know beforehand that you intend to kayak so they can prepare the units for you before you leave town.

Stops : Big Lagoon and Hidden Lagoon on Miniloc Island, Simizu Island or Payong Payong, and 7 Commando Beach.

Usual Price : P1200/person

Additional fees: P200 Big Lagoon fee. P200-250 for optional kayak rental.

Although half of the stops of this tour are caves, its most well-known attraction is Snake Island, which is actually a narrow sandbar that connects mainland Palawan to neighboring Vigan Island.

Stops : Snake Island, Cudugnon Cave, Entalula Island, Cathedral Cave, and Popolkan Island

Usual Price : P1300/person

Additional fee: P100, Cudugnon Cave entrance fee.

If you’re powder-chasing, sun-worshipping beach bum, Tour C might be a better bet. Its main attractions are its fine, white beaches that hug the jagged coastline of Matinloc Island and Helicopter Island.

The highlight of the trip is the Secret Beach , a hidden pocket of fine sand enclosed by towering karst cliffs, which is widely believed to have inspired author Alex Garland to write his novel The Beach , at least according to legend.. It is accessible only via a small opening that requires visitors to swim through it. Some of my friends got injured on the way.

Note, however, that Matinloc Island is a bit farther, which is why it costs more. Also, it faces the violent West Philippine Sea, exposing the passengers to bigger waves. If your time allows you to multiple tours, make sure to do Tour C first if the weather is pleasant . Boatmen are more likely to cancel Tour C during inclement weather. The waters circled by Tours A, B and D remain calm most of the time.

Stops : Matinloc Shrine, Matinloc Island, Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Tapuitan Island, Helicopter Island

Usual Price : P1400/person

Additional fees: P100, Matinloc Shrine entrance fee.

Tour D was the last that I tried because I had always treated it as a last resort. Tour D explores the beaches of Cadlao Island and a few on mainland El Nido.

Small Lagoon is the new addition to this tour. It used to be part of Tour A but was reassigned to Tour D in order to manage visitor traffic in premium spots.

Stops : Small Lagoon (Miniloc Island), Nat Nat Beach, Pasandigan Cove, Paradise Beach, Ubugon Cave, Bukal Island, Cadlao Lagoon

Price : P1200/person

Additional fees: P200, Small Lagoon fee. P200-250 for optional kayak rental.

Tour E: Nacpan Beach & Nagkalit-kalit Falls

Aside from the island attractions, El Nido has a lot of treasured hidden inland. This time, no need to hop onto a boat. You can simply hail a tricycle or rent a van. Here are the rates:

Tricycle tour : P1500, good for up to 4 pax Van rental : P3000, good for up to 12 pax Motorcycle rental : P500 per day

The rates above cover transportation only. Food is not included. Rates are PER TRIP, not per person. If you’re a group of four sharing a tricycle ride, each should only pay P375.

Stops : Nacpan and Calitang Twin Beach, Nagkalit-kalit Falls, Las Cabanas or Marimegmeg Beach

To book, contact Northern Hope Tours at +63 927-735-3221 (Globe) and +63 939-902-2216 (Smart).

Taraw Cliff

One of the things I haven’t done in any of my visits is to climb Taraw Cliff, famous for what many consider the most breathtaking view of El Nido. With steep and knife-like rocks, the original trail is also notorious for being dangerous. I have never mustered enough courage to do it. Maybe a few years ago, when I was young, nimble and healthy, I would do it without batting an eyelash, if I had the chance. But now that I’m a walking gelatin, maybe not. That’s not cowardice. That’s just being self-aware. Hahaha

Anyway, apparently, there exists a SAFER trail! If you approach the mountain through Ferrata Nature’s Canopy Walk . The jump off point is within the town proper so it shouldn’t be hard to find.

They also provide guides and helmets to guests. The viewpoint isn’t as high as the one at the end of the other trail, but it is said to be close enough. But it’s far safer. Yeah, I said that before. Just reiterating.

Hours open: Daily, 8am-5pm Price : P500

WHERE TO EAT IN EL NIDO

El Nido seems to not have a distinct, world-famous cuisine, but it has an emerging food scene, led by boutique restaurants. I can’t count the number of food places that I have tried here over the past several years. Those fostering a unique vibe win in El Nido. Whether it’s a spectacular view or the character-filled interiors, the most popular dining places in El Nido are those that go beyond food and adds a little something to the experience. Sadly, however, most of them are overpriced, charging P350-P450 for a meal that is forgettable at best.

Two restaurants stand out in my memory: Trattoria Altrove and Artcafe.

• Trattoria Altrove is an Italian restaurant in the town proper (a short walk from Spin Hostel, but they have another branch in Corong-corong). I was with a group of friends when I dined here. Everyone on our group ordered something different and we loved every single dish served to us, from the wood-fired oven pizza to the risotto. A pizza costs somewhere between P320 (margherita) and P650 (with truffles), while pasta between P300 and P350.
• Artcafe is one of the oldest restaurants (and shops) in town, best known for their view of Cadlao Mountain and the beach. I’ve only dined here once and when I did, I got drunk. I don’t remember what I ordered anymore or whether it was good or not. But I remember the beer. Artcafe serves local craft beers from Palaweno Brewery. I tried all the varieties available that night, which explains why I don’t remember anything. Sorry about that. Haha

Not all restaurants in El Nido cater to the aspirational Instagram-influencer in you. Your practical side would be glad to know that there are cheaper options too. Typical carinderias serve dishes for less than P100. Places like IBR Fast Food may not be IG-worthy (LOL) but they serve a filling meal for P90-P150. Tapsilog and pansit, anyone?

SAMPLE EL NIDO ITINERARIES

Below are two sample El Nido itineraries, which you can use as basis for your own. Just make the necessary adjustments to match your preferences. Also included is the breakdown of expenses.

This itinerary assumes the following:

• You’re a party of 2 , splitting some expenses.
• You’ll be staying at SPIN HOSTEL dorm or any room in the town proper for P1000 per night.
• You’re coming from Puerto Princesa Airport and traveling by bus to El Nido on your first day. This means that much of your Day 1 will be spent in transit. You’ll arrive in El Nido in the early afternoon and give you plenty of free time after that. Use this time to scan, compare, and book tours.
• You’re taking the overnight bus to Puerto Princesa on your journey back . This way, you get to maximize your last day and save one hotel night. Your flight should be in the early morning of the next day.
• You’ll be paying the standard rates of tours . You can haggle for much lower rates especially if you’re a big group. But for this itinerary, I decided to just use the standard rates so you have extra budget allowance.

4-Day El Nido Itinerary

For me, this is an ideal itinerary. Given everything that I know now, if I would be visiting El Nido for the first time, this is how I would do it. This itinerary won’t give you the cheapest trip, but it will allow you to experience the best of El Nido at a relaxing pace.

Day 1: PUERTO PRINCESA TO EL NIDO 07:20 am – Arrival at Puerto Princesa Airport 08:00 am – Ride tricycle to San Jose Terminal, P60 (P120/2pax) 08:30 am – Buy food for the road, P120 09:00 am – Board Bus to El Nido, P480 03:00 pm – Arrival at El Nido Terminal 03:10 pm – Trike to Hostel, P25 (P50/2pax) 03:30 pm – Hostel check-in 04:30 pm – Pay environmental fee at tourism office, P200 05:00 pm – Walk around town, book tours 06:30 pm – Dinner at Altrove, P400 07:30 pm – Back to Hostel, chill 09:00 pm – Good night!

Day 2: TOUR A 06:00 am – Wake up call 07:00 am – Breakfast, FREE 09:00 am – Start TOUR A, P1200 + 200 05:00 pm – Change clothes, rest 06:00 pm – Dinner at IBR Fast Food, P150 08:00 pm – Back to hotel 09:00 pm – Good night!

Day 3: TOUR C 06:00 am – Wake up call 07:00 am – Breakfast 09:00 am – TOUR C, P1400 + P100 05:00 pm – Change clothes, rest 06:00 pm – Dinner and booze at Artcafe, P500 09:00 pm – Good night!

Day 4: TOUR E, DEPARTURE 06:00 am – Wake up call, early check out 07:30 am – TOUR E, P750 (P1500/2pax) 11:00 am – Early lunch, P250 12:00 pm – Continue Tour E 04:30 pm – Freshen up, pick up bags 07:00 pm – Dinner, P150 09:00 pm – Trike to Bus Terminal, P25 (P50/2pax) 10:00 pm – Bus to Puerto Princesa, P480 04:00 am – Trike to Airport, P60 (P120/2pax) 05:00 am – Check in, Airport Terminal Fee: P200 07:20 am – Flight out

If you follow this itinerary, prepare to shell out P9750 (USD193, EUR171, SGD266) per person excluding airfare and kayak rental.

Much of the budget is eaten up by the tours and the food. You can still bring the total cost down by limiting your meal budget.

3-Day El Nido Itinerary

This is a budget itinerary. In this case, you’ll be spending only 3 days in El Nido and limiting your food expenses to only P150 per meal.

Day 1: PUERTO PRINCESA TO EL NIDO 07:20 am – Arrival at Puerto Princesa Airport 08:00 am – Ride tricycle to San Jose Terminal, P60 (P120/2pax) 08:30 am – Buy food for the road, P120 09:00 am – Board Bus to El Nido, P480 03:00 pm – Arrival at El Nido Terminal 03:10 pm – Trike to Hostel, P25 (P50/2pax) 03:30 pm – Hostel check-in 04:30 pm – Pay environmental fee at tourism office, P200 05:00 pm – Walk around town, book tours 06:30 pm – Dinner, P150 07:30 pm – Back to Hostel, chill 09:00 pm – Good night!

Day 2: TOUR A 06:00 am – Wake up call 07:00 am – Breakfast, FREE 09:00 am – Start TOUR A, P1200 + P200 05:00 pm – Change clothes, rest 06:00 pm – Dinner, P150 08:00 pm – Back to hotel 09:00 pm – Good night!

Day 3: TOUR E, DEPARTURE 06:00 am – Wake up call, early check out 07:30 am – TOUR E, P750 (P1500/2pax) 11:00 am – Early lunch, P250 12:00 pm – Continue Tour E 04:30 pm – Freshen up, pick up bags 07:00 pm – Dinner, P150 09:00 pm – Trike to Bus Terminal, P25 (P50/2pax) 10:00 pm – Bus to Puerto Princesa, P480 04:00 am – Trike to Airport, P60 (P120/2pax) 05:00 am – Check in, Airport Terminal Fee: P200 07:20 am – Flight out

This itinerary will set you back around P6500 (USD129, EUR114, SGD178) per person excluding airfare and kayak rental.

You can even reduce the total cost by taking an ordinary bus instead of an air-conditioned one, or by staying at a much cheaper dorm.

OTHER TIPS FOR THE POOR TRAVELER

• Pay the P200 environmental fee and keep the receipt . You only need to settle this once so don’t lose the receipt. Someone sometimes checks if visitors have paid for this before boarding the boat for the tour. If you can’t prove it, you might be asked to pay again.
• Puerto Princesa Airport collects a P200 terminal fee . Make sure you don’t spend every single peso you have in El Nido.
• Tip your boatmen . What they do isn’t easy. If you enjoyed their service, show your appreciation. When I have successfully negotiated down the cost of tours, I usually just give the amount that I saved to the boatmen as tip.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is el nido safe.

El Nido has a very, very low crime rate. But please don’t leave your belongings just anywhere. There are also no hospitals here, so please be very careful. The nearest major medical center is in Puerto Princesa. Also, there are no terrorists in El Nido.

When is the best time to visit El Nido?

January to April. These dry months are the sunniest. However, this period is also the peak season, especially March and April, which are widely considered the “summer” months in the Philippines. For me, the most ideal time to visit El Nido is January-February. Weather’s still fine but the place isn’t crowded.

Thanks to its location (and isolation), mainland Palawan isn’t hit by typhoons as often as the other parts of the Philippines. It’s wired differently. November sees the start of the dry season for the rest of the country, but it’s still pretty damp in El Nido. Short and passing rain showers are also expected in the afternoon even on some “dry season” days.

Are there ATMs in El Nido?

Currently, there are some ATMs in El Nido. But it’s always best to withdraw while in Manila or Puerto Princesa.

If you’re using a foreign/international card to withdraw and get pesos, beware of Dynamic Currency Conversion. More info here: BEWARE OF THIS WHEN USING ATM!

Are there money changers in El Nido?

Some restaurants and pawnshops exchange major currencies to Philippine pesos.

However, it is best practice to already have pesos before you arrive because they’re not always available. Exchange while you’re in Puerto Princesa or Manila.

Can I visit Small Lagoon and Big Lagoon in one day?

No, not anymore. This was possible because they used to be part of the same tour, Tour A. But in November 2018, Small Lagoon was reassigned to Tour D in order to minimize tourism impact and manage visitor traffic.

To monitor, pre-registration is now required for those visiting Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, and Secret Beach. When you book a tour, the operator will collect your personal details and they will take care of the rest.

Where can I book Combination Tours?

It is already prohibited. For travelers staying in El Nido for a short time, combination tours allowed them to see as much of El Nido as they can. Common combo is Tour A/C. But this is no longer allowed. If a boatman offers this tour, they are operating against the rules.

How’s the connectivity in El Nido?

Most hotels offer free wi-fi but they can be slow.

Both Globe and Smart have good reception in main settlements like the town proper, so it’s better to just use cellular data.

What type of electrical plug is used in El Nido?

220V, 60Hz. Socket Type A, mostly. Electricity supply in El Nido can be erratic. Power outages are not uncommon. Ask your hotel if they have a backup generator so you’re not in the dark in case of blackout.

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Is this post helpful to you?

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Thank you for sharing! This is great. :)

Hi! How will you know the operator of the tour if you book via Klook?

No prob! Enjoy El Nido!

I always check your blog to have an idea of how to enjoy the trip with a limited budget! I always wanted to go to Palawan whether El nido or Coron. I am just having second thoughts as I always have my yearly vacay on rainy season (I am an OFW, btw). Have you tried visiting Palawan during monsoon season? July-Aug?

Hi Weywey, yep, I once did a 2-week trip in Palawan. It was sunny on my first several days (Puerto Princesa, San Vicente), but it eventually got rainy on our last days (El Nido).

Thank you for creating this blog! Just wondering though what are your top 3 picks out of tours a, b, c, and d. Thank you!

A & C. :)

Hi. Just wanna ask if you book the tour/s when you were there at El Nido na? Or you can book it in advance? Thank You

You can do both. If you decide to book it in advance, may mga links sa post above where you can book tours.

Your post is GREAT, i got all the info i need to visit this place, many thanks.

Hi Yoshke! Thanks for the super helpful post. between the two: El Nido and Coron, which place is more sulit and more enjoyable for a first time traveler to Palawan? Mag attempt sana kami ng PPS-El Nido-Coron iti pero mukhang EN pa lang, solve na. Saka mas ok sa limited budget.Your suggestion is highly appreciated! :)

Hi Anneska, what are your entry and exit points? :D

Thank you for your really useful report. I am thinking to spend my days in Coron since I have wrote that is wilder and there is less tourist compare to el Nido. Could you provide your thoughts about it?

Hi Jose, both Coron and El Nido now are very touristy, although yes, Coron may have more less touristy spots than El Nido.

But what’s good about El Nido is you can also visit San Vicente/Port Barton from there. San Vicente/Port Barton are really off the beaten path, so if you don’t like touristy places, they are worth checking out.

Thank you very much for your time & advice. All the best.

No problem! :)

I like your blog! So detailed. Looking forward on this El Nido adventure.

Thanks, Kara!

How do I get from San Vicente airport to El Nido?

Hi, we plan on travelling from Puerto Princesa to El Nido via the last bus trip so we will be arriving in El Nido in the early hours. Would you know if there are any hotels in El Nido that accommodates early check in (as early as 6AM)? Same question for Puerto Princesa. Thanks!

Hi Myra, I think most hotels allow early check in IF there are rooms unoccupied that morning. It still depends on the availability. Happened to us once, we arrived at Spin Hostel around 8:30am, but since there were rooms that were unoccupied that morning, they checked us in immediately.

We used to rent a boat in one of the resorts in El Nido which gave us the option to visit all the premium spots in one day. That was in 2017. I don’t know if you can still do that.

Hi, If we ever book hotel in any location and we book our tour a and c thru klook including hotel pick-up will they still be able to pick us up on our hotel? And how are we going to use our klook voucher just in case cause I haven’t use it even once eh or much better mag book na lang kame kapag andun na kame? Thank you! And my last question is shall we just book our own tour instead to avail some packge online?

Hi Anthony, yung tours sa Klook, they cover downtown El Nido only (town proper). May extra charge pag outside downtown.

Pwede rin na dun ka na sa El Nido magbook if di ka pa sanay sa Klook.

Whether online or book your own tour on site, same lang sya kasi standardized ang tours. Nagkaka-iba lang sa presyo.

Hi, any recommendation where I can book ahead or where to book for a combot tour a and c? It’s not offered in klook kasi.. is Corong corong far from the town proper of ever we decide to stay in Corong but also wanted to have some nightlife back in town? Thanks in advance

Apparently, di na allowed ang combo tours ngayon.

Hi Maria, I don’t have any contact. But what I usually do for combi tours is shop around pag andun na.

Kaya naman i-tricycle ung Corong Corong from town proper.

Hi! I noticed on your 3days itinerary that you availed COMBO tours for 2000 / pax only. How is that possible? Where did you avail it po? Thanks!

Hi Anne, ino-offer sya talaga ng mga tour operators dun sa El Nido. Yan yung rate na chinarge sa amin. Wala akong contact nung bangkero though.

I’ve heard that there’s new regulation in EL Nido hindi na raw allowed ang combo tours. December 2018. need to verify pa :)

Asked rin po ako if update ang fare sa bus?

By the way very informative ang blog.

Thanks for Sharing

Hi Dukez, yeah, bawal na raw ang combo tours. :(

We’re still checking if may nagbago sa bus fares na since our last update.

Planning to go to El Nido this February, and we are in the dark on how to do things coz it’s our first time, you’re blog helped a lot. Salamat!

Thanks din, Nally! Enjoy El Nido!

hi planning to go to el nido via san vicente.. ask ko lng po is it still safe for female solo traveler???superb thanks.. ur blog is a great help esp. for 1stimer like me

Thank you for sharing a very detailed info..

P.S the k looks link doesn’t work for me

Hi Pinky! Thanks.

Which link exactly?

Thank you for sharing. I’ll be celebrating my birthday here with a very special someone. Our first in Palawan :)

Wow! Enjoy! Hope you have an unforgettably romantic time! :D

Kinilig ako when I saw your photos!! First time el nido traveller and such helpful tips from you…thank you!

Thanks, Jamie! Enjoy El Nido!

Hello! We’re planning on touring El Nido and our entry and exit point is San Vicente. Are there buses/ shared vans sana from El Nido going back to San Vicente at night time?

Hi Angela, not sure if meron pag gabi.

hi planning to go to el nido via san vicente.. ask ko lng po is it still safe for Male solo traveler???superb thanks.. ur blog is a great help esp. for 1stimer like me

Just a feedback on ATMs since the bliog only mentioned of 1 ATM at El Nido. There are already a lot of ATMs in El Nido, however tourist should be wise enough to choose an ATM that will not charge a lot because of Dynamic Currency conversion. ATMs may give you an option to withdraw in your home currency but this will charge you for as high as 6.9% of your withdrawal amount.

it is a big help for someone planning for a family trip, my best regards!

Good Day May i kindly ask which tour operator you used in El Nido please? Thank you

thanks for sharing your el nido experience…it’s a big help for a 1st time travellera like me….i learned a lot from your blog… more blessing to you and ur family…

You’re welcome po. Kaya lang po baka may mga nag-change na po dito kasi since pre-pandemic pa po ito last naupdate.

This is very helpful! Thank you sir! Sana may update kayo for 2022 in preparation namin sa 2023 trip hehehe

Hi Tyronne, naku sa 2023 pa kami balik. When is your trip? If mauna kami, baka maabutan mo pa yung updated guide haha.

wow nice thanks po sa reply sir!! Sa August po ang ticket namin :-)

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The Best 4-Day El Nido Palawan Itinerary

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: June 23, 2023

Categories PHILIPPINES

El Nido is one of my favorite places in the Philippines. I’ve stayed there in total for almost a month and done many of the activities and tours… twice. That’s why it’s not too difficult for me to suggest what people should do when they tell me they only have one day or one week. I decided to make this 4-day El Nido Itinerary as most people visiting El Nido seem to stay for more than a couple of nights but less than a week.

In this El Nido itinerary, I will share with you how to get to El Nido, what tours you should do, which day-trips to make, where to stay and tips on how to maximize your days if you are on a tight schedule. 

If you want to view all of the best things to do in El Nido and decide which ones you are interested in. You can click on my El Nido Travel Guide to view:  EL NIDO, PALAWAN TRAVEL GUIDE: 20 AWESOME THINGS TO DO

Table of Contents

HOW TO GET TO EL NIDO

You can either fly in to El Nido airport (more expensive and can be hard to book) or fly into Puerto Princesa (cheaper and much more availability). If you fly into El Nido you just take the shuttle to your hotel and you are done, it is very easy. If you fly into Puerto Princesa you will need to take the van up to El Nido.

It is a 6-hour van ride, crammed in with other tourists to reach El Nido. The van from Puerto Princesa to El Nido costs $15-20 USD. The van will drop you 10 minutes outside of El Nido town and you can take a tricycle for a few dollars into the town to find your accommodation.

So most people fly into Puerto and then head to either El Nido for the island hopping or to Sabang to see the famous underground river. For both of these destinations, you will book a seat in a shared van unless you are fancy with your own private car. This is a Philippines backpacking guide so I will assume you are choosing the van. The links below let you book the van online the night before and are about the same as the price you will find from the guy on the street who likely won’t have an A/C fan or will cram an extra tourist in the car.

Book your ticket to get to Sabang from Puerto Princesa:  Click here

Book your ticket to get to El Nido from Puerto Princesa:  Click here

You can do this all in one day if you organize everything correctly and there are no delays. So essentially, you can make it from Bohol/Cebu/Manila in the morning to El Nido in the evening if everything goes to plan.

Before you book check out this guide about things to know before you visit El Nido , with handy tips on the top wifi spots, cafes and other money-saving opportunities in El Nido.

WHERE TO STAY IN EL NIDO

I stayed at the  Spin Designer Hoste l.  The vibes at this hostel were about adventuring during the day and partying at night. The staff helped to book tours cheaper than the vendors on the street and gave discounts if you did multiple tours. If you are looking for a fun and cheap time you can’t go past  Spin Designer Hostel . Make sure to book in advance as El Nido does get booked out.

I’ll outline a few other good options below and it really depends on what type of location/hotel you are looking for.

Here is a little checklist to start!

• If you are on a budget and looking for a cheap hotel or hostels, the town proper (El Nido Town) is the best choice for you.
• If you want to see the best sunset every night in El Nido, Las Cabanas is a perfect place for you.
• If you are in El Nido looking for for some peace, luxury and relaxing place, you need to stay in Lio Beach.
• If you want a secluded yet an exotic place to stay with the best beach on the mainland, head on to Nacpan Beach.

The town proper of El Nido is the main hub of the region. You can find a great selection of shops and restaurants aside from the beautiful beaches, tour operators and laid-back nightlife. Below are my top picks in El Nido Town Proper for each different type of budget.

Happiness Hostel  (Budget):  Right in the center of the town, Happiness hostel, offers a cozy stay and chill vibes to all their guests. It is one of the recommended budget-friendly hostels in town.

The dorms offer a semi-private accommodation with a closed personal bed with a sliding door that has a light and a fan inside. Let’s be honest we all appreciate that privacy of a screen in a dorm room. If you are a beer and food lover, Happiness beach bar serves sumptuous food and cheap beer.

Click here  to check the best current rates and availability of Happiness Hostel.

Frendz Hostel El Nido  (Good atmosphere) :  Nestled in the heart of El Nido, this newly-opened hostel offers free Wifi, rooftop swimming pool ( at a hostel! ), and bar which has an incredible sunset view, specialty coffee, and first-rate rooms. The restaurant is excellent and provides a wide variety of options. Frendz Hostel is a great place to meet new friends and create memories with them. All of the staff will really become your “frendz”.

Click here  to check the best current rates and availability of Frendz Hostel

Vellago Resort  (Luxury):  Vellago Resort is a luxurious boutique hotel located just outside El Nido town proper specifically on Seven Commando Beach. Boasting white sand, turquoise water, and countless coconut trees. You can enjoy the best sunset on the beach bar or on your balcony.

Guests can experience island hopping with a speed boat, snorkeling, kayaking, play beach volleyball, or sit back with a cold drink and take in your beautiful surroundings. One of the highlights of your stay here is that they set up a romantic dinner on the beach every day.

Click here  to check the best current rates and availability of Vellago Resort.

Or you could stay at Lio Beach, which is much more secluded and low-key with chill beach vibes for sunset each night.

Located north of El Nido, Lio Beach has a wide sandbar reaching far back to its restaurants and bars shaded by coconut trees. If you want to grab a drink or some nibbles, I recommend Shaka Café and El Nido Grill. Lio Beach is about 20 minutes by motorbike from the town proper and there is also a free shuttle that runs every hour so you are disconnected from the town but also quite easily connected and with the free shuttle it is never out of reach to drop into the town, which I did many times.

Balai Adlao Resort :  If you want a laid-back escape from the buzzing El Nido Town, Balai Adlao, a 3-star boutique resort, is perfect for providing that privacy and convenience you are looking for. The place is very modern and equipped with a number of restaurants nearby. The rooms are quite spacious and the staff is very friendly and hospitable.

Click here  to check the best current rates and availability of Balai Adlao Resort.

The View :  Situated 6 kilometers away from El Nido town, The View does bed and breakfast which serves Continental and American breakfast daily. The place is a little bit remote but it is highly recommended and worth it. I love the big hammock hanging on the terrace as it gives a spectacular panoramic view of El Nido.

TRANSPORT IN EL NIDO

To get around El Nido you can walk to all of the restaurants nearby El Nido Town, which is within a 1km distance. The best thing to do is to rent a moped or motorbike for at least one day. For $5, we rented a motorbike for the day while we were in El Nido and drove to nearby beaches. You could also rent a car or join a tour group if you prefer not to ride a motorbike.

EL NIDO FOUR DAY ITINERARY

Okay so this is a strategic itinerary so that you aren’t too tired but also don’t waste any of your valuable vacation time. In four days I suggest a minimum of two days island-hopping and one beach day. I’ll detail it all below and you can change it up to suit your needs as you go.

EL NIDO ITINERARY: DAY 1

Okay, we all know El Nido is famous for it’s island hopping so today you will head out on Tour A, which is one of the most popular tours in El Nido.

To book your  EL NIDO   ISLAND HOPPING A TOUR  you can  Click Here  to check the availability and book online (It’s just $18 USD)

• It includes Three Lagoons at Miniloc Island, Shimizu Island, Snorkel with turtles at Seven Commando Beach, BBQ Lunch

SEVEN COMMANDO BEACH

Coconut trees lined Seven Commando beach and we, of course, sipped on a few after a quick snorkel. Our boat docked here for a 45-minute chill/exploration session. Many people snorkeled but we just hung out on the beach and had a swim.

The rocks in El Nido are incredibly sharp, Seven Commando Beach was no exception. Wear shoes if you are planning on exploring in caves and on rocks like us.

On my second visit to Seven Commando Beach, I also did a beach clean-up. El Nido is making great changes but trash on the islands still remains prevalent.

BIG LAGOON EL NIDO

Cruising up the lagoon was our first real look at how dramatic the cliffs and landscape was in El Nido. The lagoon has a narrow and the boats manage to navigate alongside each other as everyone on board arches their necks checking out the intense cliffs. The boat glides across the glassy water, almost crystal as the narrow entrance finally opens up into a giant lagoon. The boat did a slow circle in the lagoon letting us take in the sights before heading back out the narrow stretch.

LUNCH AT SHIMIZU ISLAND EL NIDO

Our guides had been cooking on the grill all morning as we cruised around from island to island. It was time to see what they had produced. It was an absolute feast.

I’ll be honest I’ve been on some tours where you get a cruddy sandwich and a bag of chips. This blew it out of the water. Grilled pork and chicken, fresh grilled fish and fruits and of course an abundance of rice.

There was plenty for everyone as we sat around on the logs watching monitor lizards amongst the trees. A bit of exploration post-lunch never hurts and we found a very shallow spot for a couple of jumps.

SECRET LAGOON EL NIDO

This spot was amazing but probably my least favorite as there were more than fifty tourists crammed into a tiny lagoon at once. We had to swim to a small hole and clamber through. One through sun shone down into a tennis court-sized lagoon, totally enclosed by sharp cliffs. It was a great spot but a little bit of an anti-climax.

However, the beach around the corner once back out of the lagoon was really cool. The landscape here was by far my favorite spot of the day and I camped on my favorite spot at the front of the tour boat as we left snapping a few shots to capture the entire scene. I have never seen anything like it before in my life.

The second time I visited Secret Lagoon in El Nido on Tour A , I was armed with a drone. It gave me a whole new perspective on the lagoon and the scale of the beach. I’ve added those photos below.

SMALL LAGOON EL NIDO

Our last stop of the day would be the small lagoon. By now I had become a bit desensitized to the majestic beauty all around me. But the small lagoon hit another chord.

We were offered kayaks as we arrived but also given the option to swim. Being the cheap guys Jorden and I were of course we swam. It wasn’t too far just a few hundred yards both ways.

Swimming through this lagoon was beautiful, calming and a great way to end the day. We went as far in as we could and just spend a while floating on our backs taking in everything around us.

The second time I visited Small Lagoon was actually with the Red Bull Cliff Diving team, which was a whole new experience. They had set up ladders to a platform and were jumping from 21m and 27m for their competition. I’ve put the video below about this epic experience.

EL NIDO ITINERARY: DAY 2

The island hopping in El Nido is incredible, but I suggest taking a day off in between your island hopping trips so you don’t’ wear yourself out. That doesn’t mean I’m suggesting you don’t explore on day two. In fact, day two is going to be a big adventure.

Firstly, you have an optional activity and it depends on whether you are capable of waking up for sunrise or not. If you are a true adventurer you will be up for it without question. The first activity of the day is hiking Taraw Peak for Sunrise.

HIKING TARAW PEAK FOR SUNRISE

Expect extreme humidity. That’s what to expect! Holy hell this was the most humid climb of my life. But seriously, expect a short, steep intense climb and then to enjoy an epic, epic view for sunrise on jagged rocks. If you like adventure and miss this one in El Nido, you messed up!

The trail winds through the small neighborhood before throwing you into the jungle. From the first minute, you are clambering more than following a trail or ‘climbing’. The jagged rocks mean that you are constantly concentrating so you don’t misplace a step as they are unforgiving.

There are sections that are relatively vertical but nothing too extreme. There were lots of amateur hikers and climbers both male, female, young and old on the trail so don’t be scared of this hike because of the sharp rocks.

There were a  few sections that were a bit sketchy but there is always something to hold on to. I’d say the level of difficulty for this hike is moderate to above average because of the rock clambering. I don’t want to discourage you from climbing Taraw Peak but some people may struggle or get frightened so I made sure to take these two photos in probably the two most sketchy spots.

Once we cleared the final little ascent the view opened up and what a view it is. You have a birds-eye view over El Nido town and the entire bay, where the island-hopping boats are all lined up for another day of touring. We could see all the way out to Cadlao Island and beyond. 

NACPAN BEACH

After heading up Taraw Peak for sunrise, head back to your hotel and grab breakfast. Next, you will either rent a motorbike or a van and head out on a day of beach hang-outs and exploration. 

A moped costs 350 Pesos or $7 USD. We split that between two people and you have your transport sorted for the day for a few dollars. Gasoline is usually only a couple of dollars. You will need to leave your passport with the rental person but that is fair, remember you have their bike!

Nacpan Beach is about 30 minutes away from El Nido town and one of the most pristine beaches in the area. The water clarity is perfect and coconut trees and chill cafes and bars line the beach. Down to the right is empty shoreline to hang out on and down to the left is a small hill to explore.

I remember hearing that there was great shrimp at Nacpan Beach and I can testify that it is true. My lunch was beautiful and I topped it off with a mango smoothie for good measure. Sorry, I forgot to take a photo, but let’s be honest you can’t taste a photo. Just trust me to get the shrimp.

CHECK OUT VERDE SAFARI BEACH

After Nacpan Beach our next stop was Duli Beach.. or so we thought. It was a 30-minute drive and after 40 minutes we thought we had finally arrived.

The beach looked amazing but our map told us we had actually arrived at Verde Safari Beach. It was a blessing in disguise as this was an amazing stretch of shoreline that was entirely empty. A few fishing boats were resting on the shore in front of rows of coconut palms.

SURF OR HANGOUT AT DULI BEACH

With less than an hour before the sun would set we finally arrived at Duli Beach. A few small huts were scattered along the beach and only two local kids were trying to surf the whitewash.

Jorden and I grabbed the GoPro and headed out deep into the thick of the action. The locals thought we were drowning and were preparing a rescue before I came back and told them we were fine. Jorden headed in and I spent the entire sunset floating around in the impact zone.

The waves were big but not barreling clean. This was one of my favorite nights from our one month trip in the  Philippines .

EL NIDO ITINERARY: DAY 3

Okay, day three and it’s time to get back on board the island-hopping circuit. This time I suggest going on tour C. It is the other, very impressive tour with hidden lagoons and snorkeling with turtles. However, if you were about overwhelmed by the crowds on your Tour A, I suggest picking Tour B this time. I’ve detailed all of the tours with photos and guides in this blog post so you can review, which one looks best to you.

To book your  EL NIDO   ISLAND HOPPING C TOUR  you can  Click Here  to check the availability and book online (It’s just $18 USD)

• It includes Helicopter Island, Secret Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Talisay Beach, BBQ Lunch

HELICOPTER ISLAND

The first island on the itinerary of Tour C in El Nido is the famous Helicopter Island. It isn’t hard to figure out how this island earned it’s name with a distinctive helicopter shape, visible from a side profile. It is incredibly busy… always but you can still have a great time here. You can hang out here on the beach or go for a bit of a walk but the best way to explore Helicopter Island is with your snorkel and mask.

When your boat docks walk down towards the left (while facing the island) and then snorkel around the corner. Here you will get away from the crowds and be able to explore some beautiful coral. There are also some unique shelves and rock formations under the cliffs if you go far enough. I embedded a video from my underwater exploration at Helicopter Island below.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Jackson Groves (@jackson.groves) on Apr 10, 2019 at 6:14am PDT

MATINLOC SHRINE (OR NEARBY BEACHES)

Matinloc Shrine is a bit of a weird stop on an island hopping tour and it is probably the least impressive thing to do on Tour C. It is essentially an abandoned shrine.

Your captain will likely ask if you do indeed want to visit or just go snorkeling/visit another beach. I believe it costs extra to visit as well. All you do is get off and go look inside the abandoned building. Bit of a waste of time when there are beautiful beaches, reefs, and turtles nearby!

We chose to visit a nearby beach instead (no extra fee) and went snorkeling and exploring. The beauty of the area near Matinloc Shrine is that there are lots of different beaches, coves, and snorkel spots so your captain should be able to pick a  spot that isn’t crazy crowded!

Our captain took us to an amazing snorkel spot and beach but we just hung out on the boat and ate there. We snorkeled after but there was no need to get out and unpack the food we just ate it straight on the boat. I can’t remember the name of this spot for the life of me but most of the tours will choose lunch at one of a few spots.

HIDDEN BEACH

Hidden Beach is a cool little cove hiding behind the karst limestone cliffs. Your boat will drop you at the entrance and you swim/wade through the water until you make your way into the cove after about 200m.

It is usually very crowded in here although it is incredibly beautiful. If this cove was empty it would be one of my favorite places in El Nido but both times it has been full of life jackets and hundreds of people so it is often a bit more manic than magic. Nonetheless, I’ve always enjoyed sitting on the sand here and admiring the jagged cliffs and the beautiful scenery. 

On my second visit to Hidden Beach, we did a cleanup and carried out 1.5 bags of trash and even swam out with it. It’s great to leave places better than when you found them and added a challenge to our Hidden Beach experience.

SNORKEL SPOT (TURTLES!)

Our final stop of the day was right next to Matinloc Shrine again where our captain told us there was a great reef. He wasn’t wrong and our guides even spotted a couple of turtles for us to swim with. There was a huge drop-off and it was an epic spot for free-diving and getting a closer look at the coral below.

There were some really cool table corals and lots of fish in this area. We were the only tourists enjoying this spot, which is what I liked about Tour C in El Nido. It seemed a bit more flexible than Tour A, which was all about the lagoons. Tour C was a bit easier to change depending on what you were interested in.

EL NIDO ITINERARY: DAY 4

Today you have two options you either take it easy at your hotel, or the beach and then rent a kayak and paddle out to the nearby Cadlao Island OR you buckle u for one more day of island-hopping but this time on one of the less crowded routes by joining Tour B. I personally loved Tour B. We hardly saw anyone at the beaches and caves when we visited and it was very relaxed compared to Tour A and Tour C. I’ll share below the Tour B experience but also my experience kayaking out to Cadlao Island so you can decide.

To book your  EL NIDO   ISLAND HOPPING B TOUR  you can  Click Here  to check the availability and book online (It’s just $18 USD)

• It includes Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, Cudugnon Cave, BBQ Lunch

PINAGBUYUTAN ISLAND

Pinagbuyutan Island is probably my favorite island in El Nido. It has huge towering cliffs that shoot straight down dramatically over the small stretches of the beach below. There’s nothing more than a shack and coconut trees on this desolate island.

When we rolled in there was just one local selling coconuts and no other tourists. It stayed that way for most of our visit.

We walked around the edges of the island in between the tall grass and scattered palms.  This is how island hopping is supposed to be. Quiet, relaxing and away from the crowds. Luckily for us, we were in no rush and actually spent several hours at Pinagbuyutan Island. 

There are also some great snorkeling spots just off the shore with beautiful reefs waiting to be discovered below the surface.

ENTALULUA BEACH OR PAPAYA BEACH

One of the stops on Tour B in El Nido will be Entalula or Papaya Beach. Both are awesome and we hung out at Papaya Beach. It is quite similar to Seven Commando Beach, which you will find on Tour A. Beautiful clear water, a nice sandy beach with a backdrop of coconut trees. 

This is a great stop to relax and chill on the beach with your friends. There aren’t too many activities here other than just hanging out and maybe sipping on a coconut from the local stand. 

We did a beach clean-up at this stop and collected several large bags of trash. El Nido is making great changes but trash on the islands still remains prevalent. I have posted the video of the cleanup below.

SNAKE ISLAND 

Snake Island is an epic spot, one I didn’t even know about until we arrived. So often in El Nido, all of the focus is on lagoons and secret beaches that anything else is almost pushed to the side. Anywhere else in the world and Snake Island would be the number one attraction.

This beautiful island arcs out into a sandbar that connects to the mainland at low tide. This area reminded me of a mini French Polynesia with the steep, green hills as a backdrop to the cerulean blue water. 

I really enjoyed this spot and flying the drone here was so much fun with something to look at in all directions. Snake Island was a great surprise and not a spot I had seen before so it was great to be exploring something a little different in El Nido on Tour B.

CUDUGNON CAVE

On Tour B there are two caving opportunities. The first cave is Cudugnon Cave, which was actually super cool. The boat parks on the beach and then you crawl through a little hole into a hidden area inside the cliffs.

Here there are amazing rock formations and you can actually keep climbing up pretty high. It was remarkable that this cave exists hidden inside the cliff walls, out of view from passing boats. 

CATHEDRAL CAVE

The second cave was pretty wild. Cathedral Cave was incredible and one of my favorite caves I’ve visited in the Philippines. You jump off the boat and either swim or kayak in. We swam inside despite our guide saying there were snakes. I’m still not sure if he was serious or not!

Inside huge stalagmites and stalactites hang from the roof and grow from the floor. It is mindblowing to look around at the rock formations inside this sea cave. Under the surface, the water has a luminescent glow so definitely bring your snorkel to enjoy this cave. We explored it all the way to the back where things get quite creepy and gross but it is here that you can see the luminescent glow of the blue water on the walls.

Make sure you go all the way to the back of the cave to look back towards the entrance to check that out.

KAYAKING IN EL NIDO

We took some water and a GoPro and headed off towards Paradise Beach. Paddling out of El Nido Proper is really cool. We weaved in and out of all of the tour boats and continually looked back towards the small town behind us.

The paddle to Paradise Beach took us less than 40 minutes at a leisurely pace. Only one other kayaker was resting on the shore and he left soon after we arrived. For the first time in El Nido, we had an entire beach to ourselves. We both took off exploring, climbing trees and discovering small caves and coves.

There were huge amounts of rubbish on the beach that had been swept in from elsewhere. Aside from the rubbish, it was a beautiful little spot to castaway for an hour or so.

We jumped back into our kayak and continued to head towards Dilumacad/Helicopter Island without actually trying to reach it. All we planned on doing was exploring several of the beaches that Tour A didn’t visit.

We pulled into a little bay close to Pasandingan Cove that had a great rock for jumping from. Unfortunately, all the rocks in El Nido are incredibly sharp, which makes cliff jumping almost impossible in some locations. The cliffs always look amazing but they are not climber friendly whatsoever.

As the sun began to lower we quickly paddled back to prime position just outside of the harbor. From the town you cannot see the sunset unless you walk for 30 minutes. We positioned ourselves looking straight into the sun as it slowly lit up the sky. We ended up being late returning our kayak but enjoying the sunset from the kayak with our feet dangling in the warm water is one of the moments I won’t forget from our one month trip in the Philippines.

I hope this activity guide helps you plan out your four days to the fullest and you have the time of your life following this El Nido itinerary.

(Value) Spin Designer Hostel :  Let’s go for Spin! This rad hostel is located at the bustling town of El Nido. This property is highly recommended by many travelers as the service is superb. Spin Designer Hostel also provides a shared kitchen with a barbecue facility. It is value for money and very close to shops and beach.

If you stay here you will make friends with like-minded strangers and be in the prime location for the nightlife, island hopping and hiking  Taraw Peak . The beach literally steps away.

(Most Insta-worthy) Panorama Resort :  Panorama Resort is an exotic boutique resort tucked between Corong-Corong Beach and Maremigmeg Beach, is a 3-star property that features a panoramic view of the mountains in El Nido. The resort is very insta-worthy and has a lot of amenities including a private beach, outdoor and indoor swimming pool, and free WiFi. It offers an amazing sunset view and chill vibe to guests.

(Luxury Resort)   Las Cabanas Beach Resort :  This incredible beach resort is situated perfectly on the shore of Las Cabanas beach in El Nido. It offers a peaceful sanctuary from the harsh realities of the outside world. The resort is picturesque and provides easy access to island hopping and other activities.  It has rooms with sea and garden views, and the beachfront cottages are single standalone units.

ARE YOU KEEPING UP WITH MY EL NIDO SERIES?

You want to go island-hopping in El Nido but aren’t sure whether TOUR A,B,C or D will be better? Take a look at my El Nido Island Hopping Guide that compares all of the four tours to help you pick the best one for you.

Wondering what there is to do in El Nido? I’ve been twice and spent almost 30 days in El Nido so I’ve got some great recommendations for you in my Travel Guide to El Nido: 20 Awesome Things To Do

Which region will you choose for your accommodation in El Nido? I’ve broken each region down and given you suggestions for budget, value and luxury in El Nido Town, Lio Beach and Las Cabanas Beach in this guide: Where to stay in El Nido

My Review and photos of: Tour A

My Review and photos of: Tour B

My Review and photos of: Tour C

The most epic activity you can do in El Nido on the land is to hike up Taraw Peak and I share the photos and tell you how you can use the same local guide as me in this blog post:  Hiking up Taraw Peak – What You Need to Know

Saturday 21st of November 2020

Ive been in El Nido and Puerto Princessa last year. I like the calm environment. So relaxing. So natural. I like the people and the cleanliness of them. But no one knows that it was the last. I mean now that there were corona virus, I'm afraid of. So the next destination if corona virus already vanished, is Coron. I heard of it but never been there.

Thursday 18th of July 2019

These are really amazing pictures! My wife and I have been planning to go to El Nido, but it seems that it always slips through our 20 fingers! I have been following your blog and it amazes me every time really. In fact you inspired me to create a blog.

In case you visit the Philippines again, you might wanna give Kinatarcan island in the northern part of Cebu. I linked it to my post. It's really nice and unspoiled.

Tuesday 11th of June 2019

Its amazing how you make people see, how beautiful the world is through these photos! great pics1

Sharon Rausch

Friday 31st of May 2019

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Detailed El Nido Itinerary for 3 or 4 Days + Tips

El Nido is one of the most beautiful places in Palawan, Philippines, featuring towering karst mountains, turquoise lagoons, incredible coral reefs, and colorful fish.

One of the most popular activities to do during any El Nido itinerary is to go on an island hopping tour. It’s easy to see why, as the islands here are truly out of this world, with some of the clearest and bluest water you’ll ever see!

Aside from visiting the islands, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy such as exploring the beautiful beaches on the mainland, hiking to a panoramic viewpoint, or taking a dip in a waterfall surrounded by the lush jungle.

If you’re visiting soon, this guide will show you exactly how to plan your 3 or 4 days in El Nido itinerary, including useful tips on how to get there, where to stay, and more.

Read more about Palawan Philippines:

• Comprehensive guide to El Nido Tour A
• Everything you need to know about El Nido Tour C
• Best 10 day Palawan itinerary for first-timers
• Port Barton travel guide

*** This article may contain affiliate links, meaning each time you click through and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you which helps a lot in keeping this website running. Thank you for your support :)

El Nido Travel Essentials

Recommended activities and tours in El Nido:

• Island Hopping Tour A , Tour B , and Tour C (cheaper when booking online)
• El Nido Combined Tour A and C
• El Nido Tour D (least crowded tour)
• Taraw Cliff Canopy Walk and Viewpoint (cheaper when booking online)
• Jeepney Tour of El Nido Beaches and Waterfall

Where to stay in El Nido:

• Luxury: Lihim Resorts
• Mid-range: Cadlao Resort
• Budget: Frendz Hostel  or Spin Designer Hostel   (dorm and private rooms)

How to get to El Nido:

• Book a flight from Manila to El Nido here
• Book a ferry from Coron to El Nido here
• Book a bus from Puerto Princesa to El Nido here
• Book a bus from Port Barton to El Nido here

Table of Contents

How many days in El Nido is enough?

I recommend spending at least 3 days in El Nido. But with 4 days you’ll have more than enough time to explore the attractions on the mainland and do two island hopping tours.

Below is a suggested 3 or 4 day El Nido itinerary:

Day 1 : Visit the beaches near El Nido Town: El Nido Beach, Corong Corong Beach, Vanilla Beach, or Las Cabanas Beach

Day 2 : El Nido Island Hopping Tour A

Day 3 : El Nido Island Hopping Tour C

Day 4 : Taraw Cliff viewpoint, Lio Beach, Bulalacao Waterfall, Nacpan Beach

4-Day El Nido Itinerary: Day 1

Visit the beaches near el nido town.

Start your 4 day El Nido itinerary by exploring some of the beaches near El Nido Town.

There are several beaches to choose from depending on your preferences. Below I’ll walk you through them:

El Nido Beach

This beach is the closest to El Nido Town and is mainly used as a pick-up and drop-off point for the El Nido island hopping tours.

Although the scenery here is beautiful with the limestone mountains and turquoise waters, it’s not ideal for swimming due to the boats covering the main strip.

Nevertheless, it’s still a great place spot to hang out, especially in the evening as there are lots of restaurants and bars lining the beach.

Vanilla Beach and Las Cabanas Beach

Vanilla Beach , also known as Marimegmeg Beach, is one of my favorite beaches in El Nido, and I highly recommend visiting it during your El Nido itinerary.

It has soft powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water, which makes it perfect for swimming.

The beach is also clean and the waves aren’t rough. However, the restaurants and bars here are slightly expensive, so if you’re on a budget, I suggest bringing a packed lunch.

It can also get a bit crowded during sunset, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a good spot.

On the western end of Vanilla Beach is Las Cabanas Beach , which offers an even better sunset view.

During low tide, you can walk across the sandbar that connects the beach to a small island.

Still, if you’re feeling adventurous, I recommend trying the zipline instead. The price of the zipline starts at 600 pesos one way or 1,000 pesos for a round trip.

Corong Corong Beach

Located about a 5-minute drive from El Nido Town is Corong Corong Beach .

Although the beach is not suitable for swimming due to its rocky nature, it serves as a perfect location to enjoy the sunset.

If you want to swim, I recommend renting a kayak from Corong Corong Beach and heading to the nearby beaches such as Lapus Lapus, Papaya, or Seven Commandos Beach.

It’s worth noting that Seven Commandos Beach is included in the El Nido Tour A , so you may want to skip it for today if you’re already planning to book Tour A.

Explore El Nido Town

End the first day of your El Nido itinerary by exploring El Nido Town. The town comes alive at night and features a wide selection of restaurants, street food stalls, and bars.

My favorite place to eat in town is the spring roll stall found at the entrance of El Nido Beach. The food available here is both cheap and delicious, with each piece costing only 10 pesos.

Maa’s Grill is also another great place to eat Filipino food at affordable prices or Basil’ Pizza & Pasta El Nido for delicious wood-fired pizza.

4-Day El Nido Itinerary: Day 2

No trip to El Nido would be complete without doing at least one island hopping tour. There are four tours available – Tour A , B, C, and D. Below are the places you’ll visit on each tour:

Tour A : Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Seven Commandos Beach, Shimizu Island, Payong-Payong Beach. BOOK HERE

Tour B : Entalula Island, Snake Island, Cudugnon Cave, Cathedral Cave, Papaya Beach. BOOK HERE

Tour C : Helicopter Island, Hidden Beach, Secret Beach, Matinloc Shrine. BOOK HERE

Tour D : Cadlao Island, Small Lagoon, Nat Nat Beach, Paradise Beach, Bukal Island. BOOK HERE

Most travel agencies in El Nido offer the same price for each tour (I personally checked while I was there) so if you want to save money, I recommend booking your tour on Klook here to get a discount !

All tours include a buffet lunch, life jacket, and a licensed tour guide.

El Nido Tour A

For day 2, I recommend booking Tour A to witness some of the most beautiful beaches and lagoons in and around El Nido.

Tip: I recommend booking your tour in advance on Klook here as it costs only 950 pesos compared to 1,200 pesos when booking in person!

CLICK HERE TO BOOK EL NIDO TOUR A

Note that the tour price doesn’t include the entrance fee for the Big Lagoon and eco-tourism development fee.

Both will cost an extra 200 pesos each, bringing the total price of the tour to 1,350 pesos if you book on Klook or 1,600 pesos if you book in El Nido.

Tip : The eco-tourism development fee can also be used for tours B and C and is valid for 10 days.

Tour A is the most popular tour in El Nido, so it can feel a bit crowded. However, it’s worth it if you want to see some of the most stunning beaches and clearest water.

Below are the spots you’ll visit on Tour A:

Big Lagoon : This was one of the highlights of my 4 days in El Nido! Here you’ll kayak through a turquoise lagoon flanked by towering limestone cliffs. Be sure to turn left before reaching the end of the lagoon to see the cave tunnel. Note that the kayak costs an additional 300-400 pesos.

Seven Commandos Beach : Although located on the mainland, Seven Commandos Beach is only accessible by boat. It boasts soft white sand, crystal-clear water, and rows of palm trees. This is the only stop on the tour where you’ll have access to a toilet. There’s also a restaurant here where you can buy drinks and snacks.

Secret Lagoon : This spot is accessible through a small opening in the limestone cliffs. You do have to wade through water, so make sure you’re wearing water shoes to protect your feet from the sharp rocks.

Shimizu Island : Shimizu Island usually serves as the lunch spot. However, it’s too crowded, lunch will be served on Payong-Payong Beach instead.

Payong-Payong Beach : Another idyllic beach with jagged rock formations and turquoise waters.

Related post: Everything you need to know about El Nido Tour A

4-Day El Nido Itinerary: Day 3

El nido tour c.

Another day, another island hopping tour! Kick off the third day of your El Nido itinerary with Tour C to explore some of the islands located further away from El Nido.

Tip: To get the best deal, make sure to book your tour in advance on Klook here as it costs only 1,200 pesos compared to 1,400 pesos when booking in person!

CLICK HERE TO BOOK EL NIDO TOUR C

However, note that the eco-tourism development fee of 200 pesos isn’t included in the tour price. If you’ve already paid this fee on Tour A the day before, you won’t have to pay it again.

Keep in mind that the waves can be rough on Tour C, so if you’re prone to seasickness, be sure to take some medication before the tour.

That being said, I personally enjoyed Tour C more than Tour A because it was less crowded and I got to see more fish.

Below are the spots you’ll visit on Tour C:

Helicopter Island : Shaped like a helicopter, this is usually the first stop on Tour C. Although the waves can be a bit rough, you can still swim here. Luckily we had the beach almost to ourselves as we were among the first ones to arrive but keep in mind that it can be crowded after 10 a.m.

Hidden Beach : This beautiful white-sand beach is hidden behind a large rock formation and is only accessible by swimming. The coral is breathtaking and I even got the opportunity to see several clownfish.

Secret Beach : This is another beach that’s only accessible by swimming through a small opening in the limestone cliffs. The corals here are also beautiful and home to many colorful fish.

Matinloc Shrine : Some tour operators may skip this spot as it costs an additional 200 pesos per person to enter. However, I think it’s worth visiting because it offers a stunning view of the ocean and nearby islands, plus it takes only about 5 minutes to reach the viewpoint.

Cadlao Lagoon : The tour I booked also included kayaking at Cadlao Lagoon, which is normally part of Tour D. The lagoon features pointy rock formations, turquoise water, and stunning corals.

Related post: Detailed Review of EL Nido Tour C

4-Day El Nido Itinerary: Day 4

On day 4, I recommend hiking to Taraw Cliff early in the morning. You can then rent a motorbike or hire a tricycle to visit beaches and waterfalls further away from El Nido Town.

If you can’t ride a motorbike, you can instead join this jeepney tour organized by Frendz Hostel which includes visits to Lio Beach, Bulalacao Waterfalls, and Nacpan Beach.

The tour price includes all entrance fees, lunch, water, beach club access with unlimited cocktails, tour guide, and photographer.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A JEEPNEY TOUR OF EL NIDO

Taraw Cliff Canopy Walk & Viewpoint

For a panoramic view of El Nido, make sure to add Taraw Cliff to your 4 day El Nido itinerary.

Previously, it was possible to hike to the top without a guide, but due to recent accidents, it is now mandatory to hire a guide.

For a safer and cheaper alternative, I recommend the canopy walk and viewpoint instead.

After a short but steep 15-minute hike through the forest and along a canopy bridge, you’ll finally arrive at a stunning viewpoint overlooking the turquoise ocean and towering mountains.

The entrance ticket costs 430 pesos for the canopy walk and viewpoint only or 730 pesos if you’d also like to add the dreamcatcher option which is another viewpoint.

Be sure to book your entrance ticket on Klook here to get a discount!

Harnesses and helmets are provided, and a guide will accompany you and help you take photos.

Tip : I recommend doing this activity early in the morning to avoid the heat.

Opening hours : 8 a.m to 5 p.m, daily

After the hike, head to Lio Beach for a refreshing swim in the ocean. This beautiful white-sand beach is located near the airport so you can watch the planes land and take off as you cool off in the ocean.

The beach is lined with palm trees, providing plenty of shade to relax or you can rent sun loungers.

Bulalacao Waterfall

For another refreshing swim, you can also visit Bulalacao Waterfall . The waterfall can be reached after a 20-minute hike through the forest. The entrance fee for the waterfall is around 300 pesos, which includes a guide.

Another waterfall that you can visit is Nagkalit-kalit Waterfalls , but it’s further away, and you also need to pay an entrance fee and be accompanied by a guide.

Nacpan Beach

For a spectacular sunset, end your El Nido itinerary at Nacpan Beach .

This beach is one of the longest in El Nido and stretches all the way to Twin Beach , which is also worth visiting.

There are mostly expensive restaurants on the beach, but luckily there are also a couple of local restaurants that cater more to budget travelers.

You can rent sun loungers and umbrellas or find an empty spot under the shade of palm trees.

Note : The road leading to Nacpan is full of potholes, which can be challenging on a rainy day. Therefore, if you’re not experienced, I wouldn’t recommend riding a motorbike there.

Where to Stay in El Nido Palawan?

Since most of the island hopping tours don’t include hotel transfers, I recommend staying in El Nido Town so you’re within walking distance of the meeting point.

Additionally, staying in town means that you’ll have a better chance of finding affordable hotels, plus you’ll have easy access to restaurants, bars, shops, laundry shops, etc.

During my El Nido itinerary, I personally stayed at two hostels: Frendz Hostel and Spin Designer Hostel .

Both are located in the middle of town and offer various room types, including dorms (mixed and women-only) and private rooms. They also provide free high-speed Wi-Fi.

Frendz Hostel has a social vibe with super friendly staff. They even have a rooftop pool overlooking the ocean and offer daily activities like island hopping, karaoke, game nights, etc, making it easy to meet other travelers.

I stayed in their women-only dorm, which has 6 beds and an ensuite bathroom. They also have more bathrooms outside on each level.

Although it’s kind of a party hostel, they keep the noise down after 11 p.m so you can have a good night’s sleep. Check rates and availability for Frendz Hostel here.

Spin Designer Hostel , on the other hand, is quieter and better suited for those who don’t want to party every night. They are slightly more expensive than Frendz but the room rate includes a delicious buffet breakfast. Check rates and availability for Spin Designer Hostel here.

If you’re looking for affordable hotels outside of El Nido Town, Coron Corong Beach is a good option. For high-end resorts, it’s recommended to stay on Lio Beach or Nacpan Beach.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN EL NIDO

How to get to El Nido?

If money isn’t an issue, you can fly directly from Manila to El Nido with Air Swift for approximately USD 100 for a one-way trip. Check latest price here.

For those on a budget, I suggest flying first into Puerto Princesa. Flight tickets from Manila to Puerto Princesa are much more affordable and start at USD 30 one-way. Check latest price here.

Once you land in Puerto Princesa, you can take a van to El Nido. The entire journey takes around 5-6 hours. The van will make a few stops along the way for food and toilet breaks. Check latest price for the van here.

If you’re coming from Port Barton, the total journey by van takes around 4 hours. Check latest price here.

If you’re coming from Coron, you can take a ferry which should take around 5 hours. Check price here.

Note : When arriving in El Nido by van or bus, you’ll be dropped off at El Nido Transport Terminal near Corong Corong Beach. To get to El Nido Town, you’ll then have to take a tricycle which should cost about 80-100 pesos.

Getting Around El Nido

Walking : If you’re only sticking to El Nido Town and doing the island hopping tours, you can easily get around on foot.

Motorbike : If you want to visit the attractions further away from town, you can instead rent a motorbike for about 500 pesos per day.

Tricycle : The tricycle is another option for getting around if you can’t ride a motorbike. A single trip starts at 50 pesos depending on the distance and your negotiation skills.

El Nido Travel Tips

Best time to visit.

The best time to plan your El Nido itinerary is from December to April during the dry season.

May to November is considered the wet season, with July and August being the wettest months of the year.

I visited El Nido in November and had near-perfect weather except for one day when it rained for two hours in the morning.

Unfortunately, the internet coverage in El Nido isn’t the best, particularly on the islands and around Nacpan Beach but still works fairly well within El Nido Town.

If you need to buy a local sim card, you have the choice between Globe and Smart.

For convenience, I recommend buying your sim card at the airport since they have staff who will assist you in setting up the sim. The price of a sim card at Puerto Princesa Airport starts at 540 pesos or 1,500 pesos at Manila Airport.

If you’re on a tight budget, you can buy a sim card at any convenience store in El Nido instead.

I paid 65 pesos for a Globe sim card but had to go through the whole process of registering the sim card myself, which was a little complicated. Luckily, one of the staff at Frendz Hostel helped me so a huge shoutout to him!

There are a few ATMs in El Nido that you can easily find by typing “ATM” on Google Maps.

Just make sure to only use the local ones like BPI or RCBC and avoid the Euronet ATMs as those have the highest fees and worst exchange rates.

I hope you found this 4 day El Nido itinerary helpful. If you have any questions about planning your trip, let me know in the comments.

Steph is an outdoor enthusiast who’s always down for adventure. When she's not traveling abroad, you’ll either find her exploring her own backyard or researching her next trip. She writes adventure travel guides featuring waterfalls, mountains, and beaches and shares her tips on how to travel on a budget without compromising on comfort and experience.

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El Nido, Palawan: Tourist Spots, Food, Tours & Itinerary

I don’t want to sound like I’m bragging but it’s not me , it’s the biggest media and travel sites that declared El Nido as one of the best island and beach destinations in the world.  And there are still a lot of raves and accolades, but the list might not be enough.

What I am trying to say is, if you’re planning to visit the Philippines, don’t forget about El Nido. For Filipino travelers, El Nido should be the ultimate destination in your bucket list!

The Story of El Nido

Formerly known as Bacuit, the town was renamed El Nido in 1954, a name that derives from swiftlets’ nests found in the crevices of limestone cliff.

But its splendor has long been hidden to the world until a sea accident happened in 1979 that led to its discovery. Now, El Nido is one of the most popular tourist spots in the Philippines known for its wonder of nature.

How to get to El Nido

The best way to go to El Nido from Manila is via Puerto Princesa. Book a flight, and once you’re at the Puerto Princesa Airport, there are vans that offer direct travel to El Nido. We were able to get the service of Eulene Joy van for only 450Php per person. Travel time is 6 hours. We were there last November so it was off-peak season, that’s why I think we were able to get that price.

But usually the fare is about 550 Php to 600 Php base on van services like Lexus Van and also Day Tripper Vans.

READ THE BLOG POST: 15 Best Resorts in El Nido

If you are the adventurous type and you want longer travel and waiting time, you can try traveling by bus. Outside the airport, you can hail a tricycle to take you to the terminal for about 150 Php.

Also,  for an affordable 8 Php fare, tell the driver to drop you off at Junction 1, and from there ride a multi-cab going to the bus terminal named as  San Jose Bus Terminal for 13 Php each. The fare is cheaper with buses at about 380 Php for ordinary and 480 Php for Aircon. Bus companies are Cherry Bus and Roro Bus.

By Direct Flight via AirSwift

This is the only one airline that flies from Manila to Lio Airport El Nido, it’s Airswift! It’s easier access I know, but with the price of about 7,000 Php, not recommended for budget travelers Haha!

Read: Manila to Puerto Princesa by Ferry 

Tourist Spots in El Nido

It was fun roaming around the town, eating at restaurants and carinderias and also meeting new friends in El Nido, but definitely the best thing to do in El Nido is to try the island hopping tours.

El Nido offers 4 island hopping tours or packaged tours namely tours A, B, C and D which has its own unique beauty to boast. Tour A is all about Lagoons! For Tour B, it’s the caves. Beaches are the hottest attractions in Tour C. While for Tour D it’s the islands of Cadlao.

Here are the attractions from each Island Hopping Tour. During our 4 Days Travel to El Nido, we were able to experience Tours A and C, which are also the most popular.

Like I said Tour A is all about adventures while exploring the secret and hidden lagoons of El Nido. It was 8AM when we met with the tour organizer, Northern Hope Tours, together with the other tourists near the port to start our awesome island hopping experience. Here are the attractions we visited.

7 Commandos Beach

Though tour A is known for Lagoons, our fist stop is actually an Island, a beach. It was a good way to start our tour, like a prologue to an awesome adventure in the paradise of El Nido.   ( READ STORY:  7 Commandos Beach of El Nido, Palawan )

The entrance to the Big Lagoon was definitely a sight to behold. Those towering cliffs with green vegetation surrounding the crystal clear water. One of the most picturesque places in the tour.  ( READ STORY:  Big Lagoon of El Nido: Just like a Fantasy Movie )

READ THE BLOG POST: AirSwift Flights to El Nido 2023

Shimizu Island

Coined as the favorite island of the boatmen. Haha they were the one who told me that. Well, obviously because this is where we had our lunch. The food was delicious, with all those grilled fishes and liempo with ensalada, veggies and fruits! Aside from the food, Shimizu island has a charm of its own.

READ STORY:   Shimizu Island, El Nido : Our Boatmen’s Favorite Island

Secret Lagoon

We passed through this hole on these huge rocks and limestones until we reached the secret lagoon. The place was truly enchanting.

READ STORY:  Exploring the Secret Lagoon of El Nido

Small Lagoon

Whoah! Small Lagoon was all about enjoying nature’s grandeur while kayaking, you’ll pass through this small entrance of limestones until reaching the small lagoon.

READ STORY :  What I learned while Kayaking at Small Lagoon, El Nido

We finished the tour at around 4:30 PM and we all had a big smile on our faces. If you need a more detailed post about Tour A, check this article,   El Nido Tour A: Breathtaking Lagoons.

This is all about the Caves! Here are the attractions when you avail the tour B.

Snake Island. Photo Courtesy of Travelblog.org

• Snake Island
• Cudugnon Cave
• Pinagbuyutan Island
• Cathedral Cave

READ THE BLOG POST: 15 Best PALAWAN TOURIST SPOTS (Last Ecological Frontier)

This is a personal favorite because this is where I found and experienced some of the best beach adventures! Here are the highlights.

Helicopter Island

We started off the tour at Helicopter Island. The name of this island is pretty obvious, it’s because ot looks like a helicopter, especially from afar while you’re on a boat going to the island. But aside from that it’s limestone cliffs, fine beaches and underwater world will surely captivate you.

READ STORY:   Helicopter Island of El Nido, Palawan

Hidden beach

Going there…

An unforgettable experience. Behind those huge rocks and cliffs is a paradise, a beach hidden from the outside world.

Hotels in Palawan? Click here!

Talisay Beach

A relatively smaller beach from Tapiutan Island where tourists take their lunch. Though it has shorter shoreline, it’s still filled with the same beauty as the other El Nido islands.  ( READ STORY:  Talisay Beach, Tapiutan Island in El Nido )

  Secret Beach

This is one of the best adventures in El Nido. Imagine swimming and passing through this hole and then inside, you’ll find a beach. Mindblowing.

oh ha! oh ha!

READ STORY:   The Secret Beach of Matinloc Island, El Nido

Snorkeling at Matinloc Island

just keep swimming.

The tour originally includes Matinloc Shrine, but for some reasons, our guides said that we will snorkel instead. Well, I don’t have problems with that. At least we were able to experience the underwater madness of El Nido.

READ STORY:  El Nido’s Underwater Madness

For a more detailed story of Tour C, check this article –  El Nido Tour C : Secret and Hidden Beaches

This is an island hopping of the Cadlao islands. Here are the attractions of this tour.

Nat Nat Beach. Photo courtesy of elnidopalawan.net

• Bucal Beach
• Pasandigan Beach
• Nat Nat Beach
• Paradise Beach

TOUR E – El Nido Land Tour 

Aside from Island Hopping Tours, El Nido is filled with more stunning beaches, waterfalls and other attractions. That’s why there’s the Tour E or the Land Tour. You can avail this through the tricycle drivers or even tour operators in town. Don’t worry there are tons of tour operators there. When you avail the land tour, here are the destinations to expect. 

• Las Cabanas and Marimegmeg Beach
• Nagkalit-kalit waterfalls
• Nacpan and Calitang Twin Beach
• Kuyawayaw waterfalls
• Mt. Manslawit
• Bulalacao waterfalls

El Nido Tours Prices

This summarizes the price of each island hopping tour in El Nido. All island hopping tours include buffet lunch and snorkeling gear. Prices may vary by tour agency, but this is the standard one imposed by the local government.

• Island Hopping Tour A – 1,200 Php (24 USD)
• Island Hopping Tour B – 1,300 Php (26 USD)
• Island Hopping Tour C – 1,400 Php (28 USD)
• Island Hopping Tour D – 1,200 Php (24  USD)
• Land Tour (Tour E)  1,500 Php (30 USD) 

There are a lot of restaurants and karinderia (eatery) in El Nido that offer Filipino and international cuisines. But the standout for me because of its afforadable and quality of food is IBR Fast Food . Their serving is generous in affordable prices. If you’re on the budget and still wants to eat something delicious, go for IBR. It’s just near the beach located at the center of the town. For more restaurants in El Nido, check this article. 

Where to stay in El Nido

Our travel to El Nido was like months of preparation of checking the affordable and best hotels and accomodation. We also got some recommendation from friends and also checked out some blogs. Here are the recommonded hotels based on your needs as a traveler like if you’re looking for budget friendly, mid-range hotels and the luxury hotels.

Budget Friendly to Mid-range hotels in El Nido

• Our Melting Pot – One of the most popular hostels among backpackers. Located in El Nido town, just a walking distance to the beach and at the center of everything, this hostel is known for affordable accommodation and an avenue for travelers to meet new friends from all around the world.
• Swiftlets Inn – One of the best in terms of quality for affordable hostels in El Nido. They serve breakfast every morning, and is popular for hands-on service from the staff and even from the owners. 
• Ocean Vista Inn – They have a spectacular view of the El Nido beach. Another quality yet affordable hotel in El Nido. Located near the beach and just a walking distance to the town, shops and restaurants. Check my review,  Ocean Vista Inn and its breathtaking view
• Spin Designers Hostel – When it comes to hotel’s design and comfortable rooms, this hostel is one of the best choices. Also located near the town so you’re near to everything you need.
• Ipil Suites – Fully furnished, and near thebeach and the town. Another worthy accomodation in El Nido.

Luxury Resort and Hotel

When it comes to luxury, on the top of the list is the Miniloc Island Resort . Located in the secluded island of Miniloc, this haven is perfect  for lavish and ideal relaxation.

El Nido Itinerary

We stayed there for 4 days and we had an awesome trip. Here is a summary of our itinerary

4D3N itinerary

• Day 1 – Arrival in El Nido, Explore the beach and town
• Day 2 – Tour A
• Day 3 – Tour C
• Day 4 – Nacpan beach in the morning. Then leave El Nido 🙁

3D2N Itinerary 

• Day 1 – Arrival in El Nido. Explore the town and the beach
• Day 2 – Tour C
• Day 3 – Nacpan Beach. Leave El Nido

5D4N Itinerary

• Day 1 – Arrival in El Nido. Explore the beach and the town
• Day 2- Tour A
• Day 3 – Tour B
• Day 4 – Tour C
• Day 5 – Nacpan or/and leave El Nido

READ THE BLOG POST: 15 Best Beaches in the Philippines

El Nido travel Tips and more info

• ATM  – For a long time, there’s no ATM in El Nido. But not anymore! Now, there’s BPI in town, and also an ATM of RCBC at the Municipal Hall.
•  Credit Cards – Still, few establishments accept credit card. It would be better to stack some cash.
• Electricity – Electricity is now 24/7. Unlike before it was only 2pm to 6am.
• Camera – Don’t forget to bring underwater cam or action cam when you do the island hopping.
• Food in El Nido – Food in El Nido is quite expensive, that’s for Filipino backpacker’s perspective. But luckily, there are eateries in El Nido that are of quality food yet very affordable. Just look around. Or else, look for IBR restaurant. It’s recommended!
• Currency Exchange – If you need currency exchange, there are several pawnshops and currency exchange shops in town. Please do your research on the currency exchange rate.
• Internet – Wifi and Mobile Data internet is still slow in El Nido. And you’re in the Philippines, one of the countries in Asia with slow internet connection.
• Dry Bag for Cam – If you need to bring your cam, buy a reliable dry bag

I left El Nido feeling like there was a hole in my heart. This paradise has given me my needed relaxation and reflection on my life, my dreams and aspirations. I’ll definitely be back. And since this haven is getting more popular to the world each day, the best time to experience El Nido is now. I hope this travel guide helps.

Stay inspired. Get out of your cubicle and  explore the beauty of the Philippines.

Disclosure: Thank you Northern Hope Tours . Our El Nido tour was complimentary. All opinons,as always, are my own.

More El Nido Blogs:

• Coron to El Nido by ferry 
• Puerto Princesa to El Nido by bus and van 
• Montenegro Lines: Coron to El Nido 

More Beaches in PH

• Bolinao Tourist Spots DIY Travel Guide
• Jomalig Island Budget DIY Expenses and Itinerary
• Laki Beach: Your New Getaway in Bataan
• Masasa Beach Budget DIY Expenses and Itinerary
• Cabongaoan Beach and Death Pool in Burgos, Pangasinan

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El Nido Tour C : Secret and Hidden Beaches

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Tonkin-Travel Vietnam

Thanks for the great post! I’m so excited to explore Palawan in November. I think it’s much more beautiful than Halong Bay in Vietnam.

May breakdown po kayo sa budget for 4D3N? And itinerary na din po? Thank you. I love your blogs. Plan namin sundin yung iba. Ang galing kasi ng pagkagawa especially for Jomalig and Masasa. Kaso I cant find the budget and iti for El Nido 🙁

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The Best El Nido Itinerary: 3 Days in El Nido

Are you planning a 3 Day El Nido itinerary? Here’s our in-depth travel guide to help you plan your trip to one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines! With gorgeous white sand beaches, tall palm trees, many lagoons and incredible underwater life.

El Nido is a must-visit if you’re exploring Palawan, Philippines. With 3 days in El Nido, you can discover the best things to do in El Nido and around the area with multiple island hopping tours! Let’s find out what to do in El Nido!

El Nido has become very popular over the last few years – and there’s a reason why! It’s a tropical paradise with beautiful rock and limestone formations surrounding the area! From El Nido town many boats offer island hopping tours to some of the most beautiful locations with beaches, lagoons and snorkelling opportunities.

This is definitely a spot to add to your Philippines itinerary and here’s all the information you need to know before your visit to El Nido.

This post may contain affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no additional cost to you .

Quick Tips for an El Nido Itinerary

Table of Contents (Skip to a section!)

• Currency  – Philippine Peso  (compare to your own currency  here )
• Language  – Tagalog & English
• Cuisine  – Filipino Cuisine  (seafood, rice, bbq & curries)
• Paying  – Most places only take cash!
• Wifi – It’s getting better, but not it’s not super fast in El Nido
• Philippines Power Voltage  – Plugs C & F (220 V)
• Visa  – Free 30 Day Visa for UK Citizens ( more info here! )

Here’s a quick list of things you can check or book before your trip!

• Check for any public holidays in the Philippines ( check here! )
• Book your flights ( check prices here! )
• Book your accommodation ( book here for hotels  &  here for hostels !)
• Planning the rest of your trip? Here’s our 3 Week Philippines Route & Itinerary !
• Also take a look at our The Best Coron Itinerary: 3 Days in Coron, Philippines !

3 Day El Nido Itinerary

Here’s our recommended 3 day El Nido itinerary, as we were on a budget and also visiting Coron we only managed to do one island hopping tour in El Nido. Although on this itinerary, it’s totally possible to squeeze Day 1 & 3 together to make an extra day for island hopping! We have more helpful tips in this travel guide after this El Nido itinerary.

Day 1 – El Nido town & Sunset at the beach

Once you arrive in El Nido, head to your accommodation to check in or drop your bags off. If you’re hungry, grab some food in El Nido town – we recommend Seed Dreams near the beach. If you haven’t already booked a tour, today is the day to find one ready for Day 2!

Chill and watch the sunset at Las Cabañas Beach

The best way to start your 3 day El Nido itinerary is by visiting Las Cabañas Beach! It’s our favourite beach in El Nido and it’s one of the best places to watch the sunset! We fell in love with the sunset colours on the ocean and the palm trees and chilled here for a few hours. There’s many restaurants and bars along the beach, so there are plenty of choices if you want food or a drink!

It’s easy to get to the beach by scooter or tricycle to the Mcdonalds  south of El Nido town. From there it’s a short walk past a few shops down to the beach. Here’s the location of Las Cabañas Beach !

After watching the sunset at Las Cabañas Beach , either head back to the accommodation you’re staying at or make your way to El Nido town and browse around all the shops, and markets and grab some dinner if you haven’t already!

Day 2 – Go on an Island Hopping Tour

Day 2 of your El Nido itinerary is all about exploring the beautiful islands in the area. Bring your hat, snorkel, and reef-friendly sunscreen and head to El Nido beach to find your boat (pick-up is also available with some companies).

Island Hopping Tours

El Nido is one of the most popular places in the Philippines to go island hopping and it’s not hard to see why! At first, we were a little overwhelmed by the number of tours available but after talking to companies in El Nido and our own research – it now makes a lot more sense.

There are many spots to visit and it’s impossible to visit everything in a day, so there are specific island hopping routes named Tour A, B, C, and D, plus other mixed routes or private boats.

Where does each Island Hopping Tour in El Nido visit?

El Nido Tour A  – Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island & 7 Commando Beach

El Nido Tour B  – Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, Entalula Beach, Cudugnon Cave & a Snorkeling Spot

El Nido Tour C  – Helicopter Island, Matinloc Shrine, Secret Beach, Talisay Beach & Hidden Beach

El Nido Tour D  – Ipil Beach, Cadlao Lagoon, Paradise & Pasandigan Beach, Natmat Beach & Bukal Beach

Ultimately Tour A and C are the most popular tours with B and D being quieter.

How to book an Island Hopping Tour in El Nido?

You can book an island hopping tour with any company around the town or at your accommodation. The price will be around 1,400 pesos per person and most companies will charge around this price or more. We booked ours online but ended up getting put on any boat that had free space, but it was an amazing day overall!

You can book your island-hopping tour online here !

Tour A – Island Hopping Tour

We chose tour A ( the most popular one ) and had a great time! The weather wasn’t completely in our favour, and it rained on and off throughout the day. Our boat had some awesome people onboard which always makes an experience better.

For us, the highlight of Tour A is kayaking around one of three beautiful lagoons around Miniloc Island. The colour of the water in the ocean around El Nido is incredible and everything you’d want from an island hopping tour during your 3 day El Nido itinerary!

Lunch is included with all tours, and if you’re vegan or vegetarian (or any dietary preference), make sure you tell them in advance as they start preparing the food at the beginning of the day and bring ingredients onto the boat.

There are options to buy drinks at some spots throughout the day, especially from locals on small boats with coconuts, beer and ice creams!

Recap – Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island & 7 Commando Beach

The island hopping tours usually end between 4:30pm and 6 pm at El Nido beach! After a pretty busy day exploring the water and the sun, you may want to head back to your accommodation and change before grabbing dinner! We’ve mentioned it before, but we do recommend Seed Dreams for food!

Have a look at our 3 Day Coron Itinerary: 3 Days in Coron, Philippines !

Day 3 – Explore the island: Waterfalls & Beaches

On day 3 of your El Nido itinerary, it’s time to explore the beautiful beaches and waterfalls on the mainland! The best way to do this is by renting a scooter! It is possible by tuk-tuk but it can be quite expensive with extra stops. If you don’t want to rent a scooter, we suggest only visiting Napcan Beach and Lio Beach.

We rented a scooter from  Bella’s Motorbike Rental for 500 PHP in the morning and visited the following spots on this 3 day El Nido itinerary:

Bulalacao Waterfalls

The first stop of the day is Bulalacao Waterfalls! It will take around 25 minutes to get to Bulalacao Waterfalls from El Nido beach. Once you arrive it’s a short 20-minute walk through the jungle to reach the falls and you’ll be rewarded with a dip at the end! The waterfall isn’t super impressive but it’s lovely if you prefer fresh water to the sea. There’s also a small entry fee and here’s the location !

Nacpan Beach

If you’re only going to visit one stop of the day, make sure it’s Napcan Beach. You can spend all day at this beautiful long stretch of beach whether you rent a sun lounger or put a beach towel under the shade of a palm tree. Here’s the location !

There’s quite a few restaurants to choose from local Filipino food to more luxurious resort food. You will also find vendors selling coconuts – and that’s the perfect drink to have at the beach.

Whilst you’re exploring Napcan Beach, check out Twin Beach which is on the far left side of Napcan Beach. You can admire a small strip of the island with the ocean on both sides!

It takes another 25 minutes to get to Napcan Beach from Bulalacao Waterfalls and the roads are okay if the weather is dry.

After soaking up the sun and waves at Napcan Beach it’s time to head back to El Nido town area with one final stop on the way – Lio Beach ! Here’s the location !

Lio Beach is a beautiful big stretch of beach lined with wonderful tall palm trees. We didn’t realise it at first, but the area is pretty developed. There’s many shops and restaurants but it feels like a mall complex – it’s a very cool area and it’s actually right next to El Nido Lio Airport .

We watched a few planes come in and take off which we honestly never get to do. There’s a pier to walk down and you can explore the area until sunset on your 3 days in El Nido.

After an awesome 3 days in El Nido, you’ve come to the end of your El Nido itinerary. We have a few more things to do in El Nido if you’re interested in adding to this itinerary! Carry on reading to find out where to stay, our restaurant recommendations and general tips on visiting El Nido.

More things to do in El Nido

• Challenge yourself with a climb up Taraw Cliff
• Nagkalit-kalit Waterfalls – After a 45-minute hike through the jungle lies a double waterfall! It’s around 270 PHP per person with a guide and you can get a dip in the falls!
• Dagmay Beach – Continue driving from Napcan for a quieter beach.
• Cervantes Viewdeck – An awesome viewpoint with a bumpy drive.

We’re not going to lie, the Taraw Cliff hike is pretty intense but very rewarding with views of El Nido and the surrounding islands. If you’re up for a challenge on your El Nido itinerary, late afternoon is the best time to do this hike.

It takes around 30 minutes to reach the top but there’s no actual path . It’s pretty much climbing up rocks and definitely not a hike to do in sandals. The rocks are quite sharp and we would only recommend it to hikers who know how to handle these types of trails as it’s quite dangerous .

Where to stay in El Nido

Raje Residence  $ – A great budget-friendly accommodation within walking distance from El Nido.  Find them on Booking.com here !

Frendz El Nido Hostel  $$ – This hostel is by far the best-looking hostel in El Nido (yes it has a pool!) The price is a little higher than other hostels in the Philippines, but it’s totally worth it for a bit of luxury. It also has a great atmosphere and location.  Find them on Hostelworld here !

Where to eat in El Nido

Seed Dreams  $-$$ – Right by El Nido Beach, this is our favourite restaurant in El Nido with friendly owners and great vegan options! ( location ) Taste El Nido  $$ – The place to go if you want a smoothie bowl to start your morning! ( location !) Happiness Beach Bar  $$ – This chill hostel has a big menu serving breakfast, lunch and dinner! ( location !)

How to get around El Nido

El Nido town is easily walkable, however, some guesthouses and hostels are quite far outside of the town centre. There are a few different ways to get around El Nidom so here’s your options for spending 3 days in El Nido.

Renting a scooter – The best way to get around El Nido is by renting a scooter! This will give you the ultimate freedom, as long as you’re comfortable riding one. We rented ours from  Bella’s Motorbike Rental in El Nido town and highly recommend them! Prices are around 500 PHP which is a little higher than other destinations in the Philippines, but that’s the going price for El Nido.

Tricycles (Tuk-Tuks) – Tricycles are everywhere in El Nido town and many guesthouses will be able to sort out transport for you during your 3 day El Nido itinerary.

Tours – If you book an Island Hopping Tour, the company may sort out a pickup for you to get to El Nido beach.

How to get to El Nido

There are a few ways to get to El Nido from different locations around the Philippines using ferry, minivan or flying! Here are a few options for you:

Book your transport online & check your options here ! Also here’s the link for Skyscanner for flights.

Flying to El Nido – El Nido has an airport connecting to popular destinations such as Manila and Cebu. Flying usually takes around 1-2 hours and many guesthouses in El Nido can arrange pick-up or drop-off. The airport is actually next to Lio Beach and the local airline is Air Swift.

How to get to El Nido from Puerto Princesa – A more budget-friendly option (if you have time) is to fly into Puerto Princesa in Palawan and catch a 4-5 hour bus or minivan to El Nido. ( the last bus to El Nido leaves at 6 pm ) This is a great plan if you want to explore Puerto Princesa before your 3 day El Nido itinerary.

How to get to El Nido from Port Barton – It takes 4.5 hours by minivan to get from Port Barton to El Nido and there is a slightly cheaper option using local buses (Port Barton to Roxas and then Roxas to El Nido).

How to get to El Nido from Coron –

Ferry from Coron to El Nido – The ferry takes around 6 hours using Montenegro Shipping Lines The price is currently 2,640 pesos (and keeps increasing each year). These ferries don’t run daily but this may have changed, so double-check on Montenegro’s Facebook !

Flying from Coron to El Nido – In 2024, it may be the same price to fly from Coron to El Nido as the ferry companies have increased the price so much! Check Skyscanner in advance to see if you can book a flight for cheaper than 2,640 pesos (£38).

3 or 5 day Island Hopping from Coron to El Nido – Another way to get to El Nido is on a remote island hopping tour where you sleep on different islands along the way with a fun crowd of people! Tao Expeditions are the most popular tour company, although there are others. Find out more here!

Best time to visit El Nido, Palawan

The best time to visit El Nido is between January to April when the weather is dry and sunny! As the Philippines has a tropical climate, it’s not guaranteed it won’t rain at any moment – but the rainy season is from June to October which usually isn’t a great time for island hopping in El Nido.

Typhoons can also happen in the Philippines, so if you’re travelling during the rainy season – check the weather here – and be prepared for crazy stormy weather.

What to pack for 3 days in El Nido

El Nido has a tropical climate all year round, so you’ll want to pack clothes for hot weather and also a swimming costume! A hat, sunglasses and reef-friendly sunscreen are also recommended to keep safe!

On island hopping tours you can rent a snorkel and aqua shoes, but it’s also great if you have your own throughout the Philippines. Find them here – Aqua shoes and snorkel gear. Here are a few other travel essentials:

• International Worldwide Travel Adaptor  – The ultimate plug for travelling to multiple countries!
• Amazon Basics Packing Cubes  – The best way to pack a bag or suitcase.
• Stainless Steel Water Bottle  – These bottles are our favourite travel product!
• Sawyer Mini Water Filter  – Filter your own drinking water!
• Waterproof Bag 20L with Waterproof Phone Case  – Keep your things safe when island hopping!
• Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit  –  The best small lightweight tripod! We use a  Joby GorillaPod  with our  Sony A6000  and would highly recommend it!
• Mosquito spray  – if you’re prone to mosquito bites, this is one of the best sprays!

Environment & Sustainability

It’s important to make sure we’re looking after our planet when travelling and every country around the world is different. Countries such as the Philippines do not have clean water from the tap which means a lot of visitors buy plastic bottles.

To avoid buying plastic water bottles we highly suggest bringing your own reusable water bottle . All over the country, there are refillable water stations in guesthouses, restaurants and sometimes in transport areas. We didn’t need to buy a plastic water bottle once – which is amazing!!

Another gadget we carry around with us is our Sawyer Mini Water Filter – a straw that filters unsafe water and makes it 100% drinkable. We’ve used it throughout many countries in Southeast Asia and haven’t fallen ill.

Another way to look after the environment during your 3 days in El Nido – is to take your litter with you, don’t collect shells or rocks from the beaches, avoid plastic bags, and purchase durable long-lasting clothing. El Nido does actually have a ban on single-use plastic (apart from bottles) so the community will really appreciate your efforts!

Check out our Eco-Friendly Travel Products Guide !

Prices in El Nido

The prices of accommodation in El Nido are slightly higher than in other places in the Philippines as the most popular thing to do is island hopping – it means you’ll be spending a bit more money! Here’s an example of prices you can expect to pay during your El Nido itinerary:

• Accommodation  –  800 – 1000 pesos
• Restaurants  –  130 – 260 pesos
• Island Hopping Tour  –  around 1640 pesos
• Scuba Diving (per dive)  –  1600 pesos
• Ferry to Coron  –  2,640 pesos
• Scooter Rentals  –  350 – 500 peso s

Don’t forget about Travel Insurance! –  SafetyWing  Nomad Insurance

SafetyWing  is a totally flexible monthly-rolling travel insurance to help you stay safe on your El Nido itinerary and anywhere else in the world.  Find out more here!

Is El Nido worth visiting?

Yes! The area of El Nido is definitely worth a visit if you’re exploring the Philippines. We have to admit, the town is still developing and all the best things to do are outside of El Nido town – but the island hopping tours and beaches are absolutely beautiful. If you’re trying to decide between 3 days in El Nido or 3 days in Coron, we’d suggest El Nido overall but Coron if you’re a diver!

More  Philippines  guides:

• The Best Coron Itinerary: 3 Days in Coron, Philippines
• Moalboal Itinerary: The Best Things To Do (2024)
• 3 Week Philippines Route & Itinerary: Where to visit in 2024
• The Best 2 Days in Manila: Things to do & Itinerary (2024)
• The Best Bohol Itinerary: 3 Days in Bohol, Philippines
• Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls: 2024 (After Typhoon Odette!)
• The Best 3 Days in Siquijor Itinerary – Philippines (2024)
• All our  Philippines posts !

That’s the end of our  The Best El Nido Itinerary: 3 Days in El Nido!  Have the best time in El Nido and if you need any more help planning – send us a message on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below!

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Amy & Dan are the founders of The Sunrise Dreamers. They are travellers from the UK who have been on the road since 2017 whilst living in places like England, Canada, Thailand and the Canary Islands. They share their knowledge of travelling the world with detailed travel guides and tips. They're experts in vegan travel and show their audience how to travel on a budget.

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Top 10 Places to Visit in El Nido

Discover the natural wonders of el nido: top 10 must-visit places in palawan.

El Nido is a must-visit destination in the Philippines, known for its stunning natural beauty, secluded beaches, and emerald lagoons surrounded by impressive limestone cliffs. To make your visit unforgettable, check out our Top 10 Places to Visit in El Nido, featuring picturesque beaches, crystal-clear waters for snorkeling and diving, and more.

TRAVEL GUIDE

Come to palawan.

The Big Lagoon, located in El Nido, is a picturesque destination that every traveler should add to their itinerary. With its clear turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, and lush green vegetation, the Big Lagoon is one of the most photographed places in the area. As part of El Nido Tour A , the Big Lagoon offers visitors the chance to explore the lagoon's natural beauty and take stunning photos that are sure to impress. Visitors can kayak through the tranquil waters and get up close and personal with the surrounding landscape.

Small Lagoon

A visit to El Nido would not be complete without a stop at the Small Lagoon in Bacuit Bay. This picturesque lagoon, encircled by towering limestone cliffs, is accessible by kayak or by swimming through a hole, and is a must-see attraction for those who love nature and adventure. As part of El Nido Tour D , Small Lagoon features crystal-clear turquoise-green waters that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can kayak through the tranquil waters and explore the lagoon's breathtaking beauty up close.

Secret Beach

Matinloc Island, located in El Nido, is a treasure trove of stunning beaches, but the real gem of the island is the Secret Beach. Tucked away behind steep rock walls, this pocket of white sand is inaccessible by boat, making it an exclusive and must-see destination for beach enthusiasts. While not the easiest beach to reach, the journey to Secret Beach is well worth the effort. Visitors can access the beach by swimming through a narrow opening in the rock wall, where they will be greeted by breathtaking scenery that's sure to leave a lasting impression. Part of El Nido Tour C , Secret Beach is a hidden gem that offers a sense of seclusion and tranquility.

Nacpan Beach

Nacpan Beach is a true gem that should be on every beach lover's bucket list. With its long stretch of powdery golden sand, crystal-clear blue waters, and coconut palm trees lining the shore, it's no surprise that Nacpan Beach is one of the must-see attractions in the area. What makes Nacpan Beach even more special is that it's one of Palawan's best-hidden beaches and is relatively tourist-free, offering visitors a sense of seclusion and tranquility that's hard to find in other crowded beaches. As part of El Nido Tour E , Nacpan Beach is a perfect destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the El Nido town and bask in the natural beauty of the area.

Snake Island

Snake Island, formerly known as "Vigan Island," is a unique destination in El Nido that every traveler should experience. Located in Bacuit Bay, the long S-shaped sandbar connects the island to the mainland and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. During low tide, visitors can walk along the sandbar and discover a variety of beautiful starfishes and shells, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. As part of El Nido Tour B , Snake Island is a must-visit destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of El Nido.

Hidden Beach

The Hidden Beach in Matinloc Island is a breathtaking destination that every traveler should experience when visiting El Nido. This small cove is concealed by limestone rock formations and is impossible to see from the open sea, making it a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Visitors to the Hidden Beach will be treated to stunning views of the jagged limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters, making it the perfect destination for those looking to soak up the natural beauty of El Nido. As part of El Nido Tour C , the Hidden Beach is a popular destination for tourists, but those who book a Private Boat Tour can enjoy the beach's tranquil surroundings and stunning scenery without any crowds.

Seven Commandos Beach

Seven Commandos Beach is a stunning tropical destination that every beach lover should experience when visiting El Nido. With its white sand and crystal-clear, warm waters, the beach offers the perfect setting for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation. As the final stop on El Nido Tour A , Seven Commandos Beach is a popular destination for tourists looking to soak up the area's natural beauty and enjoy a day at the beach.

Shimizu Island

If you're a snorkeling enthusiast, Shimizu Island is a must-visit destination during your trip to El Nido. Considered to be one of the best spots for snorkeling in the area, Shimizu Island offers crystal-clear waters teeming with a diverse array of colorful fish and coral formations. In addition to its underwater beauty, Shimizu Island also boasts secluded white beach and warm turquoise waters, making it the perfect destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. As part of El Nido Tour A , Shimizu Island is great stop for snorkeling.

Secret Lagoon

No trip to El Nido would be complete without experiencing the magical beauty of the Secret Lagoon in Miniloc Island. Tucked away behind dramatic rock walls, this secluded lagoon boasts a stunning beach and crystal-clear waters. To access the Secret Lagoon, you must swim through a secret tunnel in the rock, adding an element of adventure and excitement to your visit. Once inside, you'll be treated to a truly unforgettable experience that's unlike anything else you'll find in El Nido. As part of El Nido Tour A , the Secret Lagoon is an essential stop on your itinerary.

Las Cabanas Beach

Las Cabanas Beach is the perfect spot to relax and unwind while watching stunning sunsets in El Nido. With its long stretch of golden sand and clear waters, it is located just a short tricycle ride from El Nido town proper, Las Cabanas Beach boasts plenty of bars and restaurants along the beachfront, making it the ideal place to enjoy a refreshing cocktail or a delicious meal after a day of island hopping.

DESTINATIONS

2024 EL NIDO TRAVEL GUIDE: Tourist Spots, Itinerary & Expenses

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• Post last modified: January 15, 2024

Our comprehensive El Nido Travel guide featuring the island’s tourist spots, hotels, restaurants, and more.

Famous for its pure white sand, crystal clear waters, coral reefs, and majestic limestone formations, El Nido is a slice of paradise that both local and foreign tourists love to visit. Every vacationer should make it a point to check out the lagoons, islets, and other stunning natural sights here.

Here’s our El Nido travel guide to help you plan your future visit to one of the most beautiful islands in the world.

When is the best time to visit El Nido?

El Nido is an all-year-round travel destination so you can pretty much visit the town any time of the year. But, if you want to enjoy it more, the best time to go is during the summer season which usually starts in March and ends in May. 

How to get to El Nido?

There are a number of ways to get to El Nido from different parts of the Philippines. This El Nido travel guide lists down common ways to get to El Nido from Manila , Cebu, Davao, and Coron .

How to get to El Nido from Manila

There is now a direct flight between Manila and El Nido via Airswift. Flights are limited and quite expensive so flying to Puerto Princesa is still the most common way of going to El Nido. From Puerto Princesa, you can take a bus or van to El Nido. The travel time is around 5-6 hours. Vans take a shorter time to reach El Nido. You can book a seat here by bus or van .

How to get to El Nido from Cebu

There is also a direct flight from Cebu Mactan International Airport to El Nido via AirSwift. Again, flight frequency is limited so flying via Puerto Princesa from Cebu is still the most common way.

How to get to El Nido from Coron

There are boats that operate from Coron to El Nido and vice-versa. You can opt to take a fast craft, passenger ship, and outrigger. Here’s the boat schedule from Coron to El Nido .

There is also now a direct flight from Busuanga/Coron to El Nido via Airswift. Check out our Coron Travel Guide if you haven’t been there.

How to get to El Nido from Puerto Princesa

El Nido is around 5-6 hours away from Puerto Princesa. If you are traveling on a large group, you can charter a van for around Php5-7,000, one-way. If you are traveling solo or with a small group, taking a public bus or shared van is another option. There are vans from Puerto Princesa Airport that can take you to El Nido. You can also take a tricycle to the Puerto Princesa Integrated Bus Terminal to catch a bus or van to El Nido. Book a van or bus

How to get around El Nido

The most common mode of transportation in El Nido is tricycles. You can either share a ride with strangers or charter a trip if you are going to get out of the town proper. If you are more than five people, I highly suggest you rent a van for a more convenient journey.

Alternatively, you can also rent a scooter so you can move around the town freely.

Where to stay in El Nido?

Budget hotels and cheap hostels in el nido.

Frendz Hostel

Frendz Hostel El Nido is located about 5 minutes walk from the center. It offers a great view of both the town and the sea and it’s an ideal place for visitors who are looking for a hippie vibe accommodation in El Nido.

A bed in a mixed dorm starts at around Php1,300 (USD25) a night Check availability and book

Alocasia Hostel

If you are looking for a cheap place to stay within the town center of El Nido, you can check out Alocasia Hostel. It is conveniently located very close to the island hopping jump-off point. 

Room rates at around Php1,300 (USD25) a night for a standard room. Check availability and book 

Spin Designer Hostel

Located not too far away from the town center, Spin Designer hostel offers affordable and comfortable accommodation catered especially to budget travelers.

Rates start at P750 (USD15) for a 1 Person in 4-Bed Dormitory – Mixed Check reviews and availability

Mid-range Hotels in El Nido

Lime Resort El Nido

Lime Resort El Nido is one of the newest hotels in El Nido located in Corong-Corong, about 15-20 minutes away from the town proper. It offers a breathtaking view of Bacuit Bay and El Nido sunset. It features an infinity pool, a sky bar, a sky deck, and rooms with a view of the bay.

Room rates start at around Php6,000 (USD115) for a deluxe room Check availability and book  OR see more photos from our recent stay at Lime Resort

Luxury Hotels in El Nido

El Nido Resorts – Pangulasian Island

El Nido Resorts – Pangulasian Island is an eco-luxury island resort in Bacuit Bay, El Nido featuring breathtaking views of the sunrise and the sunset. It offers a total of 42 deluxe rooms built in contemporary Filipino architecture. Check out our list of Luxury Resorts in Palawan . Room rates: Php28,000 per night Check availability and book

El Nido Group Tours

El Nido is easy and convenient to explore. Whether you are in a big group or traveling solo, you can always book a reliable tour agency for that memorable and wonderful experience while on the Island. Gotmarked Tours offers affordable El Nido tours. You can message them on their FB page at: Gotmarked Tours

El Nido Tour A

Discover the islands, lagoons, and beaches of El Nido through a whole day of island hopping. Explore the clear waters of Miniloc Island and enjoy the beaches of Shimizu Island, Seven Commandos, and of course the magnificent view of El Nido Big Lagoon. The Small Lagoon was used to be a part of this tour but it has now been moved to Tour D. This tour includes a lunch on the beach.

Joiner tour starts at Php1,050 – BOOK NOW

El Nido Tour B

El Nido Tour B allows you to explore Snake Island, Pinagbuyatan Island, Cudugnon Cave, Cathedral Cave, and Papaya Beach. This tour starts at around 9:30 am and will usually end at 3 pm.

Joiner tour at only Php1,100 – BOOK NOW

El Nido Tour C

El Nido Tour C allows you to explore the islands of Dilumacad (Helicopter Island) and Matinloc, known as one of the shooting locations of the movie Bourne Legacy. You will also have a chance to visit the Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, and Talisay Beach. This tour starts at 9 am and ends at 3 pm.

Joiner tour at only Php1,175 – BOOK NOW

El Nido Tour D

El Nido Tour D will take you on an unforgettable island hopping experience through some of the most gorgeous lagoons and beaches in Palawan. If you join this tour, you will visit Cadlao Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Bukat Beach, Natnat Beach, and Paradise Beach.

The price of Tour D is only P1,200 per head Book your El Nido Tour D with Gotmarked Tours

El Nido Luxury Tours

Fancy exploring the island on a speedboat or catamaran? You can get on a private luxury tour in El Nido for a more memorable experience. Just choose between the two tours below:

Top Tourist Spots in El Nido

Nacpan beach.

Essentially a part that makes one of two intertwined—so-called twin—beaches, the Nacpan Beach makes for the better of the two for being bigger and encompassing a long stretch of land, dotted and lined with tall palm trees.

How to get there: The cheapest way to go there is by renting a motorcycle and drive your way to Nacpan Beach. The rental cost is around Php600 for a day. If you don’t want to drive, you can charter a tricycle for around Php1,000 for two people. Travel time is around an hour.

Taraw Cliff

No adventure in El Nido is ever complete without one braving the area’s highest peak, the Taraw Cliff. With a height that overlooks the overall town of El Nido and a fortress-like image from below, Taraw Cliff never ceases to amaze regardless of which angle you are from it. If you want a perfect view, try to start hiking as early as 5 AM.

Alternatively, you can also do a Taraw Cliff Canopy walk .

When we speak of the ocean, it always gets deeper the farther you go from the coast. But for a long stretch of shallow seawater that seems to outsize its smaller counterpart, the Big Lagoon makes for a very interesting visit to the shallow areas of El Nido. This is a must-visit tourist spot in El Nido and kayaking is a must activity to get to the Big Lagoon. The kayak rent is only Php300 (USD6) for two people.

How to get there: Join El Nido Tour A.

Small Lagoon

Basically the smaller of the two prominent lagoons in El Nido. Although the Small Lagoon is little in size, it makes up for its unique structure that makes visiting it an equally impressive experience.

How to get there: Join El Nido Tour D.

Seven Commandos Beach

As intriguing as its name may sound, there are no military operations taking place on this coast. The name actually harkens back to a tale that speaks of seven soldiers who were stranded on the island which some might openly dispute. Regardless of the island’s name, however, the main highlight of being on this shore is its unique scenery as highlighted by the perfect mixture of verdant trees on land and clear seawaters.

How to get there: Join El Nido Tour A.

Pinagbuyutan Island

Made of mostly rocky formations carpeted with greeneries on most of its surface, the Pinagbuyutan Island has an imposing presence from a relative distance. But take the bold steps to get close and you shall see the ground of powdery whites that is a hallmark on almost every beautiful island in the area.

How to get there: Join El Nido Tour B.

Secret Beach

Not many people who are not native to El Nido knew of the Secret Beach, hence its name. Although the shore itself is not entirely hidden when seen from the sky, its rather unusual entrance—which requires a bit of swimming—makes it relatively obscure, particularly to any unsuspecting person.

How to get there: Join El Nido Tour C.  

Corong Corong Beach

El Nido is booming in the tourism business. Nowhere is this more evident than in an area where hospitality business establishments thrive such as around Corong Corong Beach. Yet, for an island where solitude makes for a prevailing theme, the Corong Corong Beach’s rather wide expanse is never too crowded.

How to get there: Corong Corong Beach is close to El Nido town proper. You can hail a tricycle from the town proper and alight at the drop-off point or you can charter a tricycle for around Php70.

Cathedral Cave

Having an inner view that mimics a cathedral, the Cathedral Cave makes for a picturesque place on an island. But, as a home to known venomous sea snakes, it is a place where swimming is strictly forbidden.

How to get there: Join El Nido Tour B.  

Cadlao Island

Embodying a beauty that is akin to Tahiti, only smaller, the Cadlao Island can be quite easily mistaken as a place in French Polynesia. Apart from the sea, the main highlight of Cadlao Island is the snorkeling paradise of Ubungun Cove.

How to get there: Join El Nido Tour D.  

Talisay Beach

Talisay Beach is one of the lesser-known beach destinations in El Nido, but it actually surprised me in so many ways. It is a known lunch stop of most boatmen during El Nido Tour C. It is situated near Matinloc Shrine, a more popular tourist spot in El Nido.

Maregmeg Beach

If you are looking for a nice spot to watch the stunning sunset of El Nido, then head over to Maregmeg Beach. It’s located about 30-45 minutes away from El Nido town center. If you are taking a trike, it will cost you Php150 (USD3) per trip, one-way.

Where to Eat in El Nido

El nido boutique artcafe.

El Nido Artcafe is probably the most popular restaurant in El Nido. Must try on their menu are Seafood Spaghetti, Seafood Basket, Pizza Pancetta, and Chicken Tikka Masala. Check out El Nido ArtCafe Menu

Frendz Sky Bar and Restaurant

If you want good food and an amazing sunset view then Frendz Sky Bar and Restaurant might be the perfect place for you. Must-try is their sizzling tanigue, quesadilla, and sizzling squid. They also offer popular international dishes like pad thai, nasi goreng, kebab, and a lot more. See Frendz Restaurant Menu

Lime Resort Sky Bar

Head to Corong-Corong and dine at Lime Resort’s Sky Bar. It offers a breathtaking view of El Nido sunset so make sure you arrive early. You can try their pasta and pizza and a glass of your favorite drink.

Gusto Gelato

For your sweet cravings, head over to Gusto Gelato. They offer different flavors of gelato like dark chocolate, mint chocolate, salted caramel, and a lot more!

SAMPLE ITINERARY AND EXPENSES

Whether you are spending a weekend in El Nido or going all out the whole week, we got you covered. Most visitors to El Nido stay for at least 3 Days and 2 Nights. If you want to experience the best of El Nido, we suggest you stay at least 5 days 4 nights so you can do all the tours as well as visit other equally gorgeous beaches on the mainland.

3D2N Itinerary

If you have a tight schedule and can only stay on the island for 3 days and 2 nights, we highly suggest you take Tour A and then visit Nacpan Beach and Maregmeg Beach. If you are adventurous and love hiking, you can also take an early hike to the peak of Taraw Cliff. Yes, you can do all of these in 3D2N. See detailed 3D2N El Nido itinerary

4D3N Itinerary

Staying on the island for 4 days and 3 nights is the most common itinerary for local tourists. If you have this much time, you can take 2-3 island hopping tours depending on your departure from the island. Ideally, we suggest you take two tours: Tour A and Tour C then visit Nacpan Beach and Maregmeg Beach. You can also hike to the top of Taraw Cliff if you are an adventurous traveler. If you’re leaving El Nido at night on your last day, you can take the Tour B. See the detailed 4D3N El Nido itinerary

5D4N Itinerary

You can go all-in with El Nido Tours with a 5D4N itinerary for as long as you leave the island late afternoon or at night on your last day. Experience the best of the island by joining Tour A which highlights the Big Lagoon; Tour B island escapades; Tour C for hidden beaches; and Tour D for the Small Lagoon and Cadlao Lagoon. See detailed 5D4N El Nido itinerary

Expenses for 5D4N

• Airfare from Davao to Puerto Princesa (fly-through with 20kg baggage via Cebu Pacific): Php4,700
• Breakfast at NAIA: Php300
• Van transfer Puerto Princesa to El Nido: Php700
• Lunch along the way to El Nido: Php150
• Accommodation at Alocasia Hostel (Triple room with breakfast for 3 nights): Php5,760/3= Php1,920
• Van rental to Nacpan Beach: Php3,700/3 (Cheaper if you go by trike) Php1,233 each
• Meals and drinks at Nacpan Beach Php200
• Dinner at Art Cafe: Php500
• Tour B: Php1,300/head
• Trike to Maregmeg and back to the town proper: Php300 (Php150 one-way) Php100 each
• Dinner at Frendz Resto: Php440
• Tour C: Php1,400/head
• Dinner by the beach at Bundatan Restaurant: Php1400/3=Php467 each
• Cocktail at Tribu Kuridas Php200
• Tour A: Php1,200/head
• Trike to Lime Resort: Php70/2=Php35
• Overnight at Lime Resort El Nido: Php5,000/3=Php1,667 each
• Early dinner at Lime Skybar: Php2,200/3=Php733 each
• Trike Fare from Lime to Mcdo: Php300/3 (roundtrip)= Php100 each
• Late night snack to McDo in Maregmeg Php150
• Van transfer from El Nido to Puerto Princesa: Php700
• Airfare from Puerto Princesa to Manila (using CEB Travel Pass): Php900
• Airfare from Manila to Davao (using CEB Travel Pass): Php1,200

Total Expenses : Php20,295 Expenses without airfare : Php13,495

If you are traveling on a tight budget, you can reduce your expenses to only around Php11,000 plus airfare. Just stay in a hostel for the whole duration of your trip. We moved to Lime Hotel on our last night so our expenses have gone up a little bit.

Tip: Travel with at least one companion and you will spend even less. If you are traveling solo, you can also opt to stay in hostels with shared rooms.

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Thank you for reading! We hope you find our El Nido Travel Guide useful. Consider following us on our social media channels for travel updates and travel inspirations.

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Glen Nomad is a travel blogger and the founder of Escape Manila, one of the top travel blogs in the Philippines. He has visited all 82 provinces in the Philippines and has explored 53 countries across Asia, North & South America, East Africa, Europe, and Australia. Follow him on IG at @escapemanila

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Sample el nido itineraries for 3, 4, 5, 6, days tour or more.

Looking for detailed sample El Nido itinerary, things to do and tourist spots in Palawan? Check out these sample El Nido itineraries to help you plan your trip!

Sample el nido itineraries for 3, 4, 5, 6 days tour + things to do & tourist spots, ready to explore el nido, palawan let's get started.

3D/2N: El Nido Itinerary (3 Days and 2 Nights)

Day 1: arrival in el nido / explore the town.

• 06:00 AM - Departure from Manila to Puerto Princesa City, Palawan
• 07:00 AM - Arrival at Puerto Princesa City Airport
• 08:00 AM - Travel from Puerto Princesa to El Nido [ BOOK TRANSPORTATION HERE! ]
• 12:00 NN - Lunch at the rest stop on the way to El Nido
• 02:00 PM - Arrive in El Nido, Check-in at hotel/resort
• 03:00 PM - Explore the town, eat, enjoy the sunset at Corong-Corong Beach
• 07:00 PM - Dinner at El Nido Art Cafe
• 08:00 PM - Have some drinks
• 09:30 PM - Back at the hotel/resort
• 10:00 PM - Sleep

DAY 2: EL NIDO TOUR A - BOOK THIS TOUR HERE!

• 07:00 AM - Breakfast
• 08:30 AM - Start of El Nido Tour A
• Hidden Lagoon
• Shimizu Island
• Payong-payong Beach
• 7 Commando Beach
• 04:30 AM - End of El Nido Tour A
• 05:30 PM - Back at the hotel/resort and freshen-up
• 07:00 PM - Dinner, have some drinks, night out with friends
• 09:30 PM - Back at the hotel/resort and freshen-up
• 10:00 AM - Sleep

DAY 3: TARAW PEAK AND DEPARTURE

• 06:30 AM - Breakfast
• 07:00 AM - Take a tricycle to Ferrata Nature's Canopy Walk
• 08:00 AM - Trek to Taraw Peak via Canopy Walk [ SEE RATES AND BOOK HERE! ]
• Enjoy the view of El Nido town and Bacuit Bay from Taraw Peak
• 10:00 AM - End of Taraw Peak trek
• 10:30 AM - Travel back to hotel/resort
• 11:00 AM - Back to the hotel, freshen-up, prepare for hotel check-out
• 12:00 NN - Check-out and have lunch
• 01:30 PM - Travel from El Nido to Puerto Princesa City [ BOOK TRANSPORTATION HERE! ]
• 06:30 PM - Arrive at Puerto Princesa Airport
• 08:30 PM - Travel back to Manila

4D/3N: El Nido Itinerary (4 Days and 3 Nights)

• 02:00 PM - Arrive in El Nido, hotel/resort check-in and freshen-up
• 03:00 PM - Explore the town and sunset viewing

DAY 2: EL NIDO TOUR A - [ SEE TOUR RATES AND AVAILABILITY HERE ]

• 04:30 PM - End of El Nido Tour A
• 05:00 PM - Back the the hotel/resort / freshen-up
• 07:00 PM - Dinner, party, have some drinks
• 09:30 PM - Back at the the hotel/resort

DAY 3: EL NIDO TOUR C - [ SEE TOUR RATES AND AVAILABILITY HERE ]

• 08:30 AM - Start of El Nido Tour C
• Helicopter Island
• Matinloc Shrine
• Secret Beach
• Talisay Beach
• Hidden Beach
• 04:30 AM - End of El Nido Tour C
• 05:00 AM - Catch the sunset at Corong-Corong Beach
• 07:00 PM - Dinner and souvenir shopping
• 09:00 AM - Back at the hotel and sleep

DAY 4: TARAW PEAK AND DEPARTURE

• 07:30 AM - Take a tricycle to Ferrata Nature's Canopy Walk
• 10:30 AM - Take a tricycle back to your hotel/resort
• 11:00 AM - Back at the hotel, freshen-up and prepare for check-out
• 12:00 NN - Hotel check-out and have lunch
• 01:00 PM - Travel from El Nido to Puerto Princesa City [ BOOK TRANSPORTATION HERE! ]
• 06:00 PM - Arrive at Puerto Princesa Airport
• 08:00 PM - Travel back to Manila

5D/4N: El Nido Itinerary (5 Days and 4 Nights)

Day 4: el nido tour b or d.

• 08:30 AM - Start of El Nido Tour B
• Snake Island
• Pinagbuyutan Island
• Pangulasian Island
• Cudugnon Cave
• Cathedral Cave
• 04:30 AM - End of El Nido Tour B
• 08:30 AM - Start of El Nido Tour D
• Cadlao Lagoon
• Paradise Beach
• Natnat Beach
• Small Lagoon
• 04:30 AM - End of El Nido Tour D
• 07:00 PM - Dinner and have a few drinks

DAY 5: TARAW PEAK AND DEPARTURE

6D/5N OR MORE: El Nido Itinerary (6 Days and 5 Nights or More)

To help you plan your coron adventure, please check out these posts:.

• Coron Travel Guide with Budget and Itinerary for First-timers
• Sample Coron Itineraries for 3, 4, 5, 6, Days Tour or More!

San Vicente Land Tour Itinerary

• 08:00 am - hotel pick-up
• Roman Catholic Church
• Municipal Hall
• Kayak Inandeng River
• Lunch at Long Beach
• Bato ni Ningning
• 04:00 pm - end of the tour

Boayan Island Tour Itinerary

• Niapuray Reef
• Kambingan Beach
• Evergreen Beach
• Lunch at Evergreen Beach
• Starfish Point
• Pulang Bato Reef

I hope these SAMPLE EL NIDO PALAWAN ITINERARIES help you plan an amazing and memorable El Nido adventure! Please feel free to adjust the itineraries depending on the things you want to do El Nido and the activities and experiences that best interest you. Also, please adjust it depending on your flight arrival and departure times.

For more travel tips on how to get there, top things to do in el nido, tourist spots, recommended hotels and resorts, sample budget breakdown and many more, please check out my el nido palawan travel guide blog for first-timers ..

• Sample BORACAY Itineraries
• Sample CEBU Itineraries
• Sample BOHOL Itineraries
• Sample BACOLOD Itineraries
• Sample DUMAGUETE-SIQUIJOR Itineraries
• Sample SIARGAO Itineraries
• Sample CORON Itineraries
• Sample PUERTO PRINCESA Itineraries
• Sample LA UNION Itineraries

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Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

10 Best Things To Do in El Nido, Palawan

El Nido in Palawan houses the most beautiful locations in the world. Hidden lagoons, limestone formations, sandbanks, stunning islands, and white beaches with blue water are just the tip of what the 7,641 islands in the Philippines have in store for you. The El Nido island hopping tours are the most popular reason to visit this little town, but there is more! Find out about all the things to do in El Nido in our complete travel guide.

Things to do in El Nido, Palawan

El Nido is located at the northern tip of Palawan Island. Together with Coron, it’s become one of the most popular locations to visit in the Philippines. Plan to spend 3 to 5 days here.

Here are all your hotel options in El Nido.

1. El Nido Island Hopping Tour

A protected area called Bacuit Bay, hosting 45 paradise islands, has been named one of the most beautiful destinations in the entire world. Tours A, B, C & D all visit different islands, and all tours are stunning.

Stunning lagoons, movie-like islands, and beautiful wildlife – you’ll find it all in these island hopping tours in El Nido . This is a must-do in every Philippines Travel Guide .

Book your island hopping tour in advance

2. Rent a Kayak and Discover Secret Beaches

Rent a kayak and explore secret beaches around Cadlao island. The island across town has stunning wildlife like monkeys, big lizards, and hornbill birds. For a unique experience, rent a clear kayak in El Nido .

Please note: Taking plastic bottles to the islands is not allowed. Read more tips on how to reduce plastic while traveling .

3. Duli Beach – Pristine White Sand Beach

Duli Beach is an unknown 2-kilometer-long white beach in the far northern tip of El Nido, Palawan. There is a 50 PHP (1 USD) entrance fee to the beach.

The waves are good for beginner surfers; lessons are offered at Duli Beach. There are a few little drinks & a food shack. However, we don’t recommend getting food here. We and many others got sick from a simple rice & veggies dish.

Tip: Love the tropics? Don’t miss traveling to Siquijor Island .

To get to Duli Beach, rent a motorbike in El Nido and drive a beautiful one-hour route up north.

Read:   2 days things to do in Coron, Palawan

4. Boat from El Nido to Coron

Picture yourself gliding over crystal clear waters between El Nido and Coron (or vice versa) along some of the untouched beauty of the Philippines.

Embark on a 4-day expedition with Big Dream Boatman to explore crystal-clear waters, hidden lagoons, and abundant marine life. As you traverse the archipelago, you’ll find opportunities for adventure, moments of quiet reflection, and glimpses into the vibrant local culture. With Big Dream Boatman, you’re not just a tourist but a curious explorer. Be sure to book this journey in advance, as it’s a popular way to travel to El Nido.

Discover the expeditions of Big Dream Boatman here

5. Zipline Between Islands

Fly from one island to the other via a 750-meter-long zip line. How cool is that?! At Las Cabañas Beach, they offer this experience for 500 – 1100 PHP (~ 16 USD). It’s a thrilling, magical flight and a real must-do if you are into a bit of adventure. Take the flight around sunset for the best experience.

6. Hike Taraw Cliff

Climb up to the highest point of El Nido. For this tough 2-hour hike, it is recommended to hire a guide and wear proper shoes before you climb up these sharp rocks. Once at the top, you will have an incredible view over the entire area.

7. Nacpan Beach, El Nido Palawan

Nacpan Beach is one of the best beaches in El Nido. A great 45-minute motorbike ride from town takes you to the 4-kilometer-long beach with coconut trees along the entire coastline. The tip of Nacpan splits into Calitang Beach, where small beach shacks sell fresh coconuts, seafood, and beach beds.

Nacpan can handle a lot of people, so it never feels too crowded. But if you don’t feel like joining the crowd, drive to Duli Beach instead. Sunsets on Nacpan are beautiful, but we don’t recommend you drive back to El Nido in complete darkness. It is also possible to visit Nacpan beach as part of an exciting jeepney day tour visiting multiple beaches and and the Bulalacao Waterfalls ( book a tour here ).

Book this popular hostel on Nacpan Beach

8. Corong-Corong Beach Walk

One of our personal favorite things to do in El Nido is to walk on Corong-Corong Beach during sunset. It is the quietest beach in town. Start following the coastline from Corong-Corong Bay all the way down to Boodle Fight Cafe to have a delicious Filipino dinner.

9. Watch the Sunset at Las Cabanas

Las Cabanas Beach is one of the most popular and developed beaches in El Nido. It is great for sunbathing, swimming, and having drinks or food at one of the many beach bars, and it’s the best beach to watch the sunset.

The tricycle fare is 150 PHP (2.60 USD) for two persons from town. We recommend getting a motorbike for 500 PHP (8.80 USD) per day instead.

10. Visit the public market

Every (early) morning at 4 AM, the local market sells fresh fruits, veggies, fish, and meat. Before heading on any motorbike trip, like towards Nacpan Beach, go get some fresh, uncut fruits there as a snack. Fresh, uncut fruits have no risk of holding bacteria. The market is located near Corong-Corong Beach on the side of the main road.

El Nido Travel Tips

El Nido town is all about relaxing and exploring its surroundings with El Nido Island hopping tours . The town itself is not that exciting but has been developing rapidly over the last few years. It owns a handful of good restaurants, it is safe, and there is no risk of Malaria.

ATM El Nido has one large ATM, the BPI Bank , in the center of town. A few smaller ones are pretty much always empty. Take enough cash.

Motorbike Rental The best way to explore El Nido is by motorbike. The tricycles overcharge big time, so spending 350 – 500 PHP (6-9 USD) on a motorbike is a very good deal. We rented ours at Bella’s rental and can highly recommend them.

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Philippines trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

WiFi Posting Instagram Stories of your beautiful trip to El Nido is quite the task. There are some cafes and hotels that offer a steady WiFi connection, but be prepared and get a SIM card instead.

Environmental El Nido is trying its absolute best to reduce the impact on the environment. It is not allowed to smoke on the streets nor on the island hopping tours, and they completely banned single-use plastic.

Read more about it in their sustainable tourism magazine .

Water in El Nido Good to notice is the area seems to have an ongoing freshwater problem. Numerous people have an upset stomach because food gets cooked in tap water, which is not clean enough. Please always check TripAdvisor reviews and avoid the risk.

Restaurants

Amidst the island’s lush scenery, you’ll find an array of fresh seafood and delicious Filipino classics. Some of our favorite restaurants were:

• Boodle fight ♥️♥️♥️♥️
• Art Cafe ♥️♥️♥️♥️
• Bella Vita ♥️♥️♥️
• Happiness cafe ♥️♥️♥️

How to Get to El Nido

El Nido is accessible via boat, minivan, or direct flight.

There are a lot of different options that we wrote out for you in a separate article. Read all you need to know about getting to El Nido here .

Book your transport tickets online

Where to Stay

Choose a hostel or hotel on one of the beautiful beaches in El Nido.

Hotels in El Nido 😴

Best Time to Visit

December to March are generally the best months weatherwise to visit El Nido. April and May are very hot but as well very good months to visit. Because the high season is a short period, prices will rise double during these months.

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

Best things to do in coron, palawan, el nido island hopping: a full guide to tours a-d.

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.

Loving your blog! I’m planning on going to the Philippines for my honeymoon in October. Do you think it’s a good time to go? We would go around mid October. I’ve been getting mixed reviews online about the weather in October.

Thank you! October is right on the end of Typhoon season so you should expect a bit of mixed weather. End of October or early November would be a better if that’s an option for you. Have the best time!

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17 Best Things to Do in El Nido, Palawan (+ Tourist Spots)

Ah, El Nido! If you’ve ever dreamt of turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and jaw-dropping sunsets, then you’re in for a treat. El Nido is not just another travel destination—it’s a slice of paradise on Earth.

And trust me, as someone who has traveled around the Philippines for years and recently traveled to El Nido, this place is a must-visit. It’s definitely in one of our top 3 best places to visit in the country.

But here’s a little tip from one traveler to another: if you really want to soak in all that El Nido has to offer, consider staying for 5 to 7 days. You won’t regret it!

In this El Nido travel guide, we’re sharing the things to do in El Nido Palawan that you shouldn’t miss!

Table of Contents

Best Things to Do in El Nido Palawan & Can’t Miss Tourist Spots

El nido island hopping tours.

Bacuit Bay is nothing short of magical. With 45 paradise islands waiting to be explored, it’s no wonder island hopping is at the top of our list.

Depending on your adventurous spirit, you can choose from four different tours: Tour A, B, C, and D. Each offers a unique experience, so why not try them all?

Tour A: The Classic Experience

Includes: Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Secret Lagoon, Seven Commando, Payong Payong Beach

Tour A is what I like to call the “Classic El Nido Experience.” It’s perfect for first-timers and offers a bit of everything—stunning lagoons, pristine beaches, and snorkeling spots.

This was the only tour we managed to squeeze in our itinerary. Since we got sick for a few days in El Nido, we had to cancel some of our activities. But at least we have more reasons to go back! (We’re already planning our next trip while writing this article.)

The Big Lagoon is the star of the show, with its crystal clear waters perfect for kayaking or just floating around. Shimizu Island is a snorkeler’s paradise, teeming with marine life.

The Secret Lagoon, accessible through a small cave, feels like a hidden world of its own. But as much as I wanted to enjoy the experience, there were a lot of people. We had to line up to get inside the lagoon.

And the small opening with its sharp rocks didn’t help. Some of the people we were in the tour with wanted to get out as soon as they got in.

Seven Commando and Payong Payong Beach are great for lounging and sipping on fresh coconuts. Seven Commando is definitely my favorite beach. We wanted to just stay there the whole day but had to move on to the next part of the tour.

There is, however, one luxurious resort at one end of the beach. Curiousity got me and I went ahead to check the resort. All of their rooms, suites, and villa have a beach view. If you want a full on island experience, I’d recommend them. Check rates and availablity .

I’d recommend tour A to anyone who wants a well-rounded El Nido experience.

👉 BOOK EL NIDO TOUR A

Tour B: The Explorer’s Dream

Includes: Snake Island, Cathedral Cave, Cudugnon Cave, Entalula Island, Pinagbuyutan Island

Tour B is for the adventurous souls.

Snake Island features a unique sandbar that you can walk on during low tide. Cathedral Cave and Cudugnon Cave are awe-inspiring geological formations that make you feel like an explorer discovering uncharted territories.

Entalula Island is a beach lover’s dream with powdery white sand. On the other hand, Pinagbuyutan Island offers stunning panoramic views.

The El Nido tour B is perfect for those who love exploring and don’t mind a bit of trekking and climbing.

👉 BOOK EL NIDO TOUR B

Side Story: I know I said we only managed to book Tour A. But we got to eat our lunch at Entalula island. Our tour guides decided mid tour to dock at Entalula island instead because the place we were supposed to dock in was filled with our tourists.

We ate our boodle lunch and snorkeled a bit around the area. Entalula island is supper pretty. We hogged the whole beach to ourselves. I loved how our tour guides just decided “let’s go there instead”. Would 11/10 recommend them if you’re planning to book. We booked our tour on Klook .

Tour C: The Hidden Gems

Includes: Secret Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Helicopter Island, Talisay Beach

Tour C is all about discovering El Nido’s hidden gems.

The Secret Beach is a secluded area accessible only by swimming through a narrow opening in the rocks. Matinloc Shrine offers a blend of history and spirituality, along with breathtaking views.

Helicopter Island, named for its unique shape, is great for snorkeling. Talisay Beach is a less-visited spot, perfect for a peaceful swim.

I’d recommend tour C for couples looking for romantic spots or solo travelers seeking some solitude.

👉 BOOK EL NIDO TOUR C

Tour D: The Chill Vibes

Includes: Small Lagoon, Pasandigan Beach, Natnat Beach, Paradise Beach, Cadlao Lagoon

Tour D is the laid-back, chill tour of the bunch.

The Small Lagoon is like Big Lagoon’s quieter sibling, offering a serene kayaking experience. Pasandigan Beach is all about the chill vibes, perfect for sunbathing or reading a book.

Natnat Beach offers a secluded experience, while Paradise Beach lives up to its name with its stunning beauty. Cadlao Lagoon is another peaceful spot for kayaking or swimming.

This tour is perfect for those looking to relax and take things slow.

👉 BOOK EL NIDO TOUR D

Kayaking Adventures

Imagine paddling your way to secret beaches. Sounds dreamy, right?

Renting a kayak gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. And if you’re lucky, you might just spot some of the local wildlife. Turtles, anyone?

Most resorts and hotels have kayaks for rent. You can ask your own accommodation or find a few shops renting them out.

Surfing at Duli Beach

If riding the waves is more your style, then Duli Beach is calling your name.

Getting there is part of the adventure, and once you arrive, you can take surfing lessons or simply enjoy the local food. The waves, the vibes—what’s not to love?

Boat Expedition from El Nido to Coron

Ever thought of spending 4 days on a boat expedition?

With Big Dream Boatman, you can! Journey from El Nido to Coron or vice versa and witness some of the most breathtaking sights.

From hidden lagoons to vibrant coral reefs, this trip is a feast for the eyes.

Ziplining Between Islands

For the thrill-seekers out there, how does ziplining 750 meters over Nacpan Beach sound? Exhilarating, right? Not only will you get an adrenaline rush, but you’ll also be treated to some of the most beautiful views in El Nido.

Aside from Nacpan Beach, Las Cabanas Beach also offers a zipline experience. We haven’t tried this but it looked fun to try from all the people ziplining above us in Las Cabanas.

Hiking Taraw Cliff

If you’re looking to elevate your El Nido experience—literally—then hiking Taraw Cliff is a must.

It’s a 2-hour hike to the highest point in El Nido, and the panoramic view? Absolutely Insta-worthy!

But listen up, adventure junkies: don’t do it alone. Hiring a guide is crucial for navigating the tricky terrain. And oh, proper hiking shoes are non-negotiable. The rocks are very sharp. Safety first, selfies later!

👉 BOOK THE CANOPY WALK AT TARAW CLIFF

Relaxing at Nacpan Beach

Ready to swap your hiking boots for flip-flops?

A 45-minute motorbike ride from town will land you at Nacpan Beach. This isn’t just any beach; it’s one of the best in El Nido. It’s a great day trip option from El Nido town.

Think golden sands, crystal clear waters, and enough space to find your own little paradise. Whether you’re into sunbathing, swimming, or beach volleyball, Nacpan has it all.

Corong-Corong Beach Walk

For those who prefer a quieter beach experience, Corong-Corong is your go-to. It’s less crowded, equally stunning, and offers a different kind of serenity.

The best time to visit? Late afternoon, when you can enjoy a peaceful walk and catch the sunset. Early mornings are also a great time if you want the beach all to yourself.

You can try paddleboarding or simply sip on a fresh coconut. Ah, the simple joys of life!

Sunset at Las Cabanas

Speaking of sunsets, Las Cabanas (just in front of Las Cabanas beach resort) offers the most developed beach experience in El Nido. It’s the place to be when the sun starts to dip.

Grab a cocktail, find a cozy spot, and let nature do its thing. Trust me, the colors of the sky are like a live painting, and you won’t want to miss it.

Looking at the limestone cliffs with the sunset at the background just hits different.

Visit the Public Market

Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting the Public Market.

You’ll find an array of fresh fruits, veggies, fish, and meat. It’s a feast for the senses! This is perfect if your accommodation came with its own kitchen.

The best time to go is early morning when the produce is freshest. And don’t forget to buy some local delicacies.

You’re in El Nido, after all—why not taste it?

Snorkeling Adventures

If you’re a fan of the underwater world, El Nido’s snorkeling spots will leave you spellbound.

From vibrant coral gardens to schools of colorful fish, it’s like stepping into a real-life aquarium. Don’t forget your underwater camera; you’ll want to capture this!

Tour C is considered the best option if you want to go snorkeling!

Scuba Diving

For those who want to go deeper—literally— scuba diving is the way to go . El Nido has some of the most popular diving spots in the Philippines.

Whether you’re a newbie or a certified diver, there are options for everyone. Dive in and discover a whole new world beneath the waves.

The best time to go diving is from March to May.

Ryk and I haven’t tried diving yet, more on snorkeling, so if you’re interested, Lotte of Phenomenal Globe has a guide on diving in El Nido that you can check out.

Book a Yacht

Okay, let me spill some tea. On our first day in El Nido, we booked the Sailing Yacht Kalayaan on Airbnb for around 120 USD a night, and let me tell you, it was the highlight of our trip!

And it’s one of the reasons why we want a yacht for ourselves. Sipping beer, paddling, kayaking,and watching the sunset—talk about starting a trip on a high note!

You can also book your own Catamaran group tour in El Nido for a private island hopping experience!

👉 BOOK A CATAMARAN GROUP TOUR

Rent a Bike

Want to explore El Nido on two wheels?

Renting a bike gives you the freedom to discover hidden spots that most tourists miss. It’s a different kind of adventure, and you get to set the pace. Just make sure to wear a helmet and follow the local traffic rules. Safety first!

We found our bike rental on Facebook but you can find a lot of shops renting out bikes in El Nido. The rate depends on how long you’re renting the unit and the model you plan on renting. If you’re planning to rent for more than a week, you can ask for a discount.

Camp at the Beach

Ever tried beach camping?

If not, Nacpan Beach is the place to do it. And guess what? There’s even a glamping option if you like a little extra comfort.

Imagine falling asleep to the sound of waves and waking up to a beachfront sunrise. Pure bliss!

👉 BOOK A GLAMPING TENT

Discover Nagkalit-Kalit Waterfalls

If you’re up for a little trekking, Nagkalit-Kalit Waterfalls is a must-visit.

The hike is worth every step when you reach the waterfall and take that refreshing plunge. It’s nature’s way of giving you a pat on the back for your efforts.

Go Beach Hopping

Last but definitely not least, go beach hopping! El Nido is home to some of the most stunning beaches you’ll ever see. From hidden coves to bustling beachfronts, each one offers a unique experience.

If we don’t include the beaches on the island hopping trips, Lio beach, Las Cabanas beach, Vanilla beach, Corong Corong beach, Malugao beach, Caalan beach, Nacpan beach, Lamoro beach, and Twin beach are some of the must visit beaches.

👉 BOOK BEYOND EL NIDO ADVENTURE

How to Get to El Nido

The quickest and most convenient way to get to El Nido is by flying. There’s a small airport in El Nido itself, serviced by a few local airlines. We flew into Puerto Princesa , traveled to Port Barton and then took a van to El Nido, which is another popular option.

The flight from Manila to Puerto Princesa takes about an hour, and the van ride to El Nido is around 5-6 hours. If you’re short on time or just want to get to paradise ASAP, flying is your best bet.

Boat Expedition

For the more adventurous souls, how about a multi-day boat expedition? It’s an experience of a lifetime. Companies like Big Dream Boatman offer 3-5 day expeditions from Coron to El Nido and vice versa, stopping at various hidden gems along the way.

It’s a fantastic way to see the less-visited parts of Palawan and truly immerse yourself in the beauty of the region.

If you’re coming from Coron, taking a ferry is another option . The trip lasts about 3-4 hours, and while it’s not as fast as flying, it’s usually cheaper.

The ferries are relatively comfortable, and you’ll get some pretty amazing views along the way. Just make sure to check the weather conditions before you book online, as trips can be canceled due to bad weather.

👉 BOOK A FERRY TICKET

How to Get Around

Renting a motorbike is one of the best ways to explore El Nido and its surrounding areas. It gives you the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want.

We rented one for a couple of days and it was a blast. Just remember to wear a helmet and carry your driver’s license.

For short distances within El Nido town, tricycles are a convenient and affordable option. These are basically motorbikes with a sidecar, and they’re everywhere. It’s a fun way to get from point A to point B, and you’ll get to interact with the friendly local drivers.

Van Transfers

If you’re traveling in a group or prefer a more comfortable ride, van transfers are available. These are especially useful for trips from Puerto Princesa to El Nido , or airport transfers that start early in the morning. Most hotels can arrange van transfers for you, making it a hassle-free option.

Travel Tips

Tour package.

If you want to have a hassle-free trip, you can also book an El Nido tour package . Most tours include accommodation, breakfast or lunch, and an airport transfer. The price differs depending on how many island hops or tours you want to be included in your package. This is a good option if you’re a first-time traveler and just want to enjoy your trip without having to think about how to get from point A to B.

ATM Availability

El Nido has several ATMs. But make sure to bring enough cash to last you through your trip. Some of the ATMs run out of cash fast. Plus, not all shops and restaurants accept cards.

Motorbike Rental

Renting a motorbike was one of the best decisions we made. It gave us the freedom to explore hidden beaches and off-the-beaten-path spots.

Just make sure you’re comfortable riding one, and always, always wear a helmet. Most rental places will ask for your ID as a deposit.

Travel Insurance

I can’t stress this enough—get travel insurance! In cas something happens, having insurance can save you from a hefty medical bill. It’s one of those things you hope you never have to use, but you’ll be glad you have it if you do.

WiFi and SIM Cards

WiFi in El Nido can be hit or miss. Most hotels and cafes offer it, but it’s not always reliable. You can buy a local SIM card with a data package to help you navigate and stay connected. Trust me, it’s worth the few bucks!

Environmental Considerations

El Nido is stunning, and let’s keep it that way. We made it a point to carry reusable water bottles and bags. Many places also offer refill stations for water, so make use of those. And please, if you’re smoking, don’t toss your cigarette butts on the beach. Let’s be responsible travelers!

Drinking Water

There has been a recent issue with drinking water in El Nido. We learned this the hard way and let’s just say, it wasn’t pretty. Always opt for bottled water or, better yet, use a water bottle with a built-in filter. Your stomach will thank you.

It also helps to read reviews of the restaurants you’re planning to eat in. Stay updated by checking the latest reviews on Tripadvisor.

Best Time to Visit

The dry season, which runs from January to April, is generally the best time to visit. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, consider going during the shoulder months. Just be prepared for a few rain showers.

Flying Drones

There’s no ban on flying drones in El Nido but there are a lot of lost drones here. The limestone rock formations messes with the signal. This is one of the reasons why tour guides caution drone owners when there are towering limestone cliffs in sight.

That’s one problem. But here’s another one, there are a lot of eagles in El Nido who love to hunt drones. Yup. Our tour guides have told us several stories where drones crashed because an eagle started attacking it mid air. Some even bring the drones back to their nest.

This made it hard for us to fly our drone but our tour guides were very helpful in providing us information on where we can fly safely.

El Nido is a paradise that caters to every type of traveler.

Whether you’re into extreme sports, underwater adventures, or simply soaking up the sun, El Nido has got you covered. And with these travel tips, you’re all set for a hassle-free and unforgettable trip.

We hope our El Nido guide has helped you plan the perfect itinerary!

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2024 EL NIDO PALAWAN DIY TRAVEL GUIDE

I was welcomed by an extremely stunning sunset the moment I set foot in El Nido Palawan for the first time. The sky gradually turned into a gorgeous pastel palette. A few settled at the beach, too – in awe of the evenfall hues reflecting into the ocean creating an entirely calming mood. The restaurants ashore started to be filled with people who are tired and famished from exploring the best of the islands. I could hear distant chatters and merry laughter. The small waves softly crashed into the shore – a great music to my ear. I took it as El Nido’s way of telling me that I might have gone in there alone but everything’s going to be all right. So, it did.  

Impressive rock and limestone formation, the crystal waters of the lagoons and beaches that come by surprise, fascinating caves, rich marine life, beaches with grainy to powdery cream to white sand, swells and waves good for surfing, hospitable locals – this is what El Nido, Palawan is all about. To date, it has been living up to be among the best islands in the Philippines and the world with its unique and amazing attractions that continuously invite everyone from anywhere around the globe to explore its wonders.  

About El Nido Palawan

El Nido  is a municipality situated at the northern most part of the mainland Palawan. It was once a part of the municipality of Taytay. It is formerly known as Bacuit later renamed into El Nido (Spanish term for The Nest) by the Spaniards when a nest of a particular bird specie used for a special soup that costs a fortune was found in it.

Language Spoken

Though Tagalog and English are widely spoken in the town due to the frequent interaction with the tourists, often times, locals can be heard speaking in Cuyonin – a language of a group of indigenous people who migrated from Cuyo island to El Nido. Apart from Cuyonin, other prominent indigenous groups residing in the islands of Palawan include Tagbanua, Palaw-an, Calamianin and others.

Best Time to Visit

Best time to visit El Nido is from March to May – the sunny season in Philippines. The waves may be rough on rainy season making it impossible to go on an island hopping activity. Swells at Duli Beach during this season, on the other hand, are not good for surfing. Best time to visit El Nido for such activity is during the last two quarters of the year.  

Getting to, Around and Away El Nido Palawan

1.a. From Manila to Puerto Princesa City Local airlines have several flights daily from Manila to Puerto Princesa City.

1.b. From Puerto Princesa City to El Nido Once arrived, you have to travel for 4-5 hours by land to El Nido by bus or by van. The land travel costs Php 600.00. First trip is as at 5:00 AM and the last trip is at 6:00 PM. You may book your land travels at Book-A-Way Travel .

You may also coordinate with your hotel or resort’s management for the pick up and drop off at the airport for a hassle-free transfer.

2. From Manila/ Clark Airport to El Nido Air Swift has daily flights directly to El Nido. This, though, is more expensive than flying from Manila to Puerto Princesa City.  

1. From Manila Atienza Shipping Lines has a vessel that sails once a week for 24 – 26 hours every Thursday night departing from Baseco Port. Fare is at Php 1,700.00.

2. From Coron, Palawan Phimal and Montenegro Shipping lines have fast crafts sailing daily from Coron Port to El Nido PPA at 8:20 AM and 12:00 NN respectively. Fare is around Php 1,800.00 ($35-$36). The trip takes 3 hours.  

You might also want to read: Coron Palawan Travel Guide 2020

Going Around

Going around El Nido is easy as it is quite a small walkable town. Restaurants, bars, ATMs, convenience stores, souvenir shops, tour agencies’ offices, the port and the beach aren’t far from one another.   Apart from the attractions that require island hopping activity, El Nido also has inland points of interest such as Nacpan Beach, Las Cabañas, Water Falls, Duli Beach, Taraw Cliff and Canopy Walk. These can be reached through riding a motorbike or through renting a private van or tricycle.

Mode of Transportation for inland tours and rates:

• Motorbike rental (self drive)  – Php 500.00/ day (excluding the gas)
• Tricycle  – Php 1,500.00 for up to 3 persons
• Van  – Php 3,000.00 up to 10 persons

El Nido Travel Requirements 2023

As of January 2023, the following are the travel requirements in El Nido, Palawan:

For Fully-vaccinated individuals:

• Confirmed hotel/ resort accommodation booking
• Vaccine certification from vaxcert.doh.gov.ph/ , Bureau of Quarantine or your LGU-issued vaccination card
• Roundtrip airline/ferry tickets

For those with incomplete vaccination or no vaccination:

• 72-hours valid negative RT-PCR test result

Things to Do

1. Island Hopping.  The best way to enjoy the attractions in El Nido is through island hopping. Tour operators usually pick the guests up from their hotels at around 8:30 AM to 9:00 AM for this.

2. Swimming and Snorkeling.  Snorkeling gears are usually included in the tour packages.

3. Diving.  There are several agencies near the the port and boat docking area that offer SCUBA diving. The package usually includes the diving gears, dive master, boat transfer and environmental fees.

4. Trekking to Taraw Cliff.  Taraw Cliff features a massive yet impressive limestone formation that can be hiked (actually, it’s more on a rock climbing). Its peak promises a breath taking bird’s eye view of El Nido. Best time to start the trek is at 5:30 AM – 6:00 AM and usually take an hour or two including the ascent and descent. Tour guide is required and the rate is at Php 500.00 usually per head.

5. Chase Waterfalls.  There are few waterfalls in El Nido that can be explored. You can either charter a tricycle or rent a motorbike in going there.

6. Kayaking and Paddle Boarding.  Kayak rental starts at Php 250.00 for the small ones and Php 300.00 for the bigger ones. It is also the best way to explore small and big lagoon.

7. Watch the sunset at the beach.  Best place to enjoy the sunset is at Las Cabanas.

8. Surfing at Duli Beach.  El Nido isn’t just all about beaches and lagoons but also swells good for surfing. Best time to do surfing in Duli Beach is during the last two quarters of the year.

El Nido Palawan Tour Packages by Northern Hope Travel and Tours

Tour a – php 1,200.00.

Small Lagoon Big Lagoon Secret Lagoon Shimizu Island 7 Commando Beach  

Small and Big Lagoon are optional. An environmental fee of Php 200.00 has to be paid on top of Php 1,200.00 and an additional Php 200.00 for reservation.

TOUR B – Php 1,300.00

Snake Island Entalula Beach Pinagbuyutan Island Cudungnon Cave Cathedral Cave  

TOUR C – Php 1,400.00

Matinloc Shrine Secret Beach Hidden Beach Talisay Beach Helicopter Island

TOUR D – Php 1,200.00

Cadlao Lagoon Inat-nat Beach Paradise Beach Bukal Island Pasandigan Beach

Inland Tours

Duli Beach Nacpan Beach Las Cabañas Waterfalls Zip line and Canopy walk  

Contact Details

Website : www.northernhopetours.com Facebook : Northern Hope Tours El Nido, Palawan Globe ( Mobile Phone): +63 927 735 3221 Smart (Mobile Phone): +63 939 902 2216 Smart (Mobile Phone): +63 942 375 2241  

Where To Eat

There are various restaurants and small canteens around where you can choose from. Food price ranges from Php 150.00 – Php 350.00 per head per meal. Among the many restaurants around the vicinity, the following are the frequently visited ones:

1. Altrove Trattoria El Nido  – specializes on pizza and pasta

2. Athena Cafe  – offers Greek food experience to be best enjoyed with the view of the beach

3. Art Cafe  – an Instagram-worthy cafe that offers pasta and music jam every night near the beach

4. Skyline Bar and Restaurant  – quite a spot to cool down and chill out at night

5. Happiness Express  – A chill and instagram-worthy restobar just across Athena Cafe  

Where To Stay in El Nido Palawan

There are lots of cheap hotels, inns and home stays around and among those are the following:

1. Northern Hope Inn Facebook : Northern Hope Tours El Nido, Palawan Globe (Mobile Phone ) : +63 927 735 3221 Smart (Mobile Phone ) : +63 939 902 2216 Smart (Mobile Phone ) : +63 942 375 2241

2. El Nido Greeviews Beach Resort Facebook: El Nido Greenviews Beach Resort Mobile: +63 916 403 7788   3.  Novie’s Tourist Inn

3. Website:  noviesinn.wix.com/noviesinnofficial/ Facebook page: Novie’s Tourist Inn Email: [email protected] Mobile: +63 908 303 2662

4. Keira Backpackers Facebook account: Keira Backpackers/ Keira Tourist Inn

5. Karmylla El Nido Facebook page: Karmylla’s Place Mobile: +63 906 965 6291

If you’re down for some luxurious hotel and resorts, you should check on the following

1.  Panorama Boutique Hotel & Beach Club Facebook page: Panorama Boutique Hotel & Beach Club, El Nido Email: [email protected] Mobile: +63 998 240 5291

2.  The Nest El Nido Beach Resort Website: www.thenestelnido.com Mobile: +63 917 714 5779

3.  Frangipani El Nido Website:  www.frangipanielnido.com Mobile: +63 917 628 3689

4.  El Nido Moringa Resort Website: www.moringa-respot.com/ Facebook page: El Nido Moringa Resort Mobile: +3 999 537 3006

5.  Vellago Resort Website:  http://vellago.com Email: [email protected] Mobile: +63 917 884 4082

6.  El Nido Bayview Resort Website:  www.elnidobayviewresorts.com/ Facebook page: El Nido Bayview Resort Email: [email protected] Telephone: +632 401 6547 Mobile (Globe): +63 917 889 2727 Mobile (Smart): +63 921 989 6907  

Sample 4 Days – 3 Nights El Nido Palawan Itinerary

DAY 1: (PM) Arrival at Puerto Princesa City Travel to Puerto Princesa City to El Nido Check in to accommodation

DAY 2: Tour A Places to Visit: 1. Small Lagoon 2. Big Lagoon 3. Secret Lagoon 4. Shimizu Island (Lunch Area) 5. Seven Commando Beach

DAY 3: Tour C 1. Matinloc Shrine 2. Secret Beach 3. Hidden Beach 4. Talisay Beach 5. Helicopter Island Evening: Travel from El Nido to Puerto Princesa City Check into accommodation

DAY 4: Home Bound

Note:  Itinerary may still depend on your flight itinerary. This itinerary works best if the booked flight for departure from your place of origin to Puerto Princesa City is in the afternoon so you could still have time to travel to El Nido and rest.   

Sample 4 Days – 3 Nights El Nido Palawan Budget

DAY 1: Van fare from Puerto Princesa to El Nido –  Php 500.00 Dinner –  Php 100.00 Inn – Php 1,200.00 / 2 –  Php 600.00

Total: Php 1,200.00

DAY 2:  Tour A –  Php 1,200.00 Dinner –  Php 150.00 Accommodation – Php 1,200.00 / 2 –  Php 600.00

Total: Php 1,950.00

DAY 3: Tour C –  Php 1,400.00 Dinner –  Php 150.00 Van Fare –  Php 150.00 Accommodation – Php 1,200.00 / 2 –  Php 600.00

Total: Php 2,300.00

DAY 4: Airport Transfer –  Php 100.00

GRAND TOTAL: Php 5,550.00 *Excluding souvenirs and airfare  *Complimentary breakfast is offered in the accommodation *Lunch is included in the tour

Tips in Traveling to El Nido Palawan

1. Bring dry bag and aqua shoes. There are several occasions that will require you to walk and pass through rocks in waters.

2. Use reef-friendly sunscreen.

3. Be a responsible traveler. Do not take home sand, shells, rocks or anything from the islands. Do not leave and throw anything to the ocean.

4. Do not feed the fish nor touch the corals.

5. Food are a little pricey in the town. The cheapest you can get is at Php 100.00 – Php 150.00 for a meal in a small canteen or local restaurant.

6. El Nido is a solo traveler-friendly town. You can just simply join tours by the agency and ask the tour guides to take photos of you. Shall you decide to book your tours with Northern Hope, look for kuya Elfer and Kuya Efren. They take the best photos! Lol.

7. Use of single-use plastic straw and bags is banned in El Nido. Shakes and drinks are sold with bamboo or paper straws and bringing of shopping eco-bags sometimes is necessary when buying something from shops.

8. If you’ll be booking a flight and will coming from Puerto Princesa City, make sure that you’ll book your departure late in the afternoon and your return early in the morning to maximize your stay in El Nido.

9. Matinloc Shrine has an entrance fee of Php 100.00 per head that is not included on the tour package fee.

10. Best place to watch the sunset is in Las Cabañas beach.

11. If you have a weak heart and are planning to go on a hike to Taraw Cliff, think twice. There are no harness and ropes at all. There is no established flat trail but sharp limestone all throughout.  

Parting Words

Anne Elizabeth Gumiran

Anne Elizabeth Gumiran, also known as Queenie, is a 20-something, full-time public school teacher, a part-time travel blogger and a freediver. She started putting her stories of adventures and misadventures into words and pictures in 2017 and continues to do so as she shares her advocacy, Sustainable Traveling.

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11 comments.

Indeed! Palawan is a great place and must be on your bucket list. Ive been to El Nido and spent 3 days, and Puerto Princessa and spent 5 days last year. I wish i could stay longer. LOL. I like the calm environment. So relaxing. So natural. I like the people and the cleanliness of them. But no one knows that it was the last. I mean now that there was corona virus, I’m afraid of. So the next destination if the corona virus already vanished is Coron. I heard of it but never been there.

Coron is quite a great place! It has really good beaches, diving spots and lagoons. Though these may also be present in El Nido, the ones on Coron really have a distinct charm. Also, have you heard about Balabac? It has the best beaches and islands that I’ve seen! It’s at the farthest end of Palawan and it takes 10 hours of travel from Puerto Princesa but it’s worth it!

When did you go? What is it like since COVID and reopening to foreign tourists?

Hi! Aside from Tour A & C, anong recommendation nyo to add tour packages? thanks

I recently tried tour B! Didn’t know it would be that amazing! Go on a land tour, too!!!

Hello, Ms Anne. Thank you for this article, which is wonderful and helpful for the first timers. I am from Malaysia and will be going to Pelawan sometime toward the end of March 2023. Will it be safe and convenient for Malaysians to do self driving tour on rented car in Pelawan? Because we are thinking of slowly and deeply enjoyed all the wonderfull places and people on the island. In the past we have been doing self driving tours in the Asean countries.

Hi, Kenny! Yes, it is safe and convenient to go around El Nido on a self-driving tour especially if you’re visiting the inland attractions 🙂

Yung van fare po ba na P500 one way lang? O roundtrip na po?

It’s only one way po. When we visited last July 2022, it’s at 700 already. I’ll update this one 🙂

Can u recommend me cheap hotel.or inn pls? Ano tour package po ba ang mas sulit?

First time po namin ng family ko magpunta sa el nido, mag DIY lang sana kami pra mkatipid

Pwde parecommend po ng beachfront hotel for.our last stay po?

Thanks po sa reply?

Hello! You may want to check Northern Hope Inn. It’s just a simple inn but very cheap and it’s just by the beach! 🙂

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A travel & food blog

El Nido, Palawan: Budget Guide + 5 Days Itinerary

One of the places you shouldn’t miss visiting in the Philippines is Palawan — and El Nido is its prime destination. In the past, El Nido used to be a luxury destination but as it gets more mainstream, rates have been lowered and standardized. Moreover, getting here is easier via budget airlines.

Here is our Budget Guide to El Nido, including a sample 5 days itinerary.

About El Nido

From puerto princesa, when is the best time to visit, el nido travel tips, el nido budget tips, 1. island hopping, 2. climb taraw cliff, 3. explore the town by motorbike, 5. kayak to nearby islands, 6. zipline between islands, 7. chill and enjoy a drink, budget options, where to eat in el nido, 5 days itinerary to el nido, what to read next:.

El Nido is located in the northern part of Palawan. It has over 40 islands where you can find white-sand beaches, lagoons, limestone cliffs, caves and forests. It also has snorkeling and diving spots.

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Personally, I prefer Coron over El Nido for a variety of reasons: less crowded, better nature sights in my opinion, etc. Many people agree on me on this. However, this is just from a local’s point of view — I’d been living in the Philippines since forever so I have already seen a lot of similar destinations.

P.S. Here’s our Travel Guide to Coron .

El Nido’s town proper serves as the tourist hub, where you can find inns and resorts, restaurants and agencies offering island hopping tours. Everything in El Nido town proper is walking distance, but if you want to explore beyond the town, you can rent a motorcycle for P500-600 per day or charter a motorcycle or tricycle with a local guide.

How to get to El Nido

El Nido is 6-7 hours away from the nearest airport, which is Puerto Princesa Airport.

• Take a local flight to Puerto Princesa City.
• Option 1: Once at the airport, there are vans directly headed to El Nido (P500 per person). Travel time is 5 hours. This is the most convenient option.
• Option 2: For budget travelers, you can walk outside the airport and ride a tricycle or jeep to San Jose Terminal. From there, take a bus to El Nido (ordinary bus ticket starts at P290 per person). The buses operate from 4AM to 10PM, there is departure every 2 hours. Travel time is 6-7 hours.
• Get off at El Nido Terminal. Ride a tricycle to your selected accommodation (around P50).

There is also a direct flight from Manila to El Nido via Air Swift but it is very expensive.

• There are fastcraft ferries plying the Coron-El Nido route daily. Travel time is 3-4 hours. Book your Coron-El Nido ferry ticket here .
• There is also a direct flight from Busuanga Airport to El Nido and vice versa via Air Swift. Travel time is 40 hours. From Busuanga Airport, you need to take a van to Coron town proper.

The best time to visit El Nido is from January to April , which are the sunniest months. High-peak season is from March to May, since it’s summer and school vacation time. Off-peak season is from June to November.

If you want to avoid the crowd, visit here during ber-months. Yes it’s the rainy season in the Philippines, but the province is usually not affected by the typhoon. Occasionally, tours may get cancelled but this is pretty uncommon.

Here are some useful tips when going to El Nido:

• It’s advisable to bring enough cash with you . There are a few ATMs in El Nido, but occasionally they run out of money especially during peak season or holidays. Credit card is accepted in some establishments, but not all.
• Bring your own ecobag and reusable travel bottle . Single-use plastic is banned in the island. You can refill your water in your hotel; most tour operators also provide purified drinking water.
• Stick to purified water provided by resorts and restaurant s. Tap water isn’t drinkable in El Nido and can easily give you diarrhea.
• Dress appropriately . You can wear bikini when in the beach, but while in town make sure that you are covered up.
• Practice the LNT principle . Bring your trash with you, don’t touch or step on corals.
• Mind your safety! There are clinics in El Nido, but the nearest hospital can be found in Taytay which is next to Puerto Princesa, several hours away.

Here are some tips for a budget-friendly travel!

• There are numerous budget inns and hostels where you can book a room for around P1000 or less (good up to 2 people).
• There are standard rates for the tours in El Nido. However, it’s possible to get discount in different ways: you can book via travel agency during off-peak season, book a group package, or you can simply book via Klook which offers cheaper rates compared to online travel agencies.
• Rent a motorbike to explore the surrounding areas in the town proper instead of getting the packaged tour. Motorbike rental only costs P500-600 per day.
• Bring your own snorkel. For each tour, you have the option to rent a snorkel for P200.
• The best things in life are free! There are free things you can enjoy in El Nido, including sunset viewing in Corong Corong.

Best Things to Do in El Nido

Here are the best things you can do in El Nido.

Island hopping is the main activity in El Nido, so you can’t miss it! You can see amazing beaches and lagoons, limestone karsts, snorkeling spots and more.

There are standard tours which you can choose from (Tours A-E). The most recommended ones are Tour A and Tour C . (More about the tour descriptions below.)

• Rate : Each tour costs around P1200 per person.

Taraw Cliff is the highest limestone peak in El Nido, offering a panoramic view of the coast town. The trail involves climbing across steep and pointy rocks. Recently, the local government has installed Ferrata Nature’s Canopy Walk which is a relatively easy trail — although still tiring! The canopy walk bridge is a bit shaky but will reward you with a wonderful view. It stretches 75 meters long and suspended 30 meters above the ground.

You will need to get a guide and helmet to climb Taraw Cliff. If you want to watch the sunrise from this spot, start your trek at about 5AM.

• Rate : P500 per person | Get discounted tickets here
• Operating hours: Daily, 8AM – 5PM

Rent a motorbike or charter a tricycle so you can explore El Nido beyond the islands included in the tours. You can visit beaches (Marimegmeg Beach, Nagpan Beach, Lio Beach), Makinit Hot Spring, Nagkalit-Kalit Falls and a few jungle trails.

• Rate : Motorbike rental is P500-600 per day

El Nido is a great place for diving. It has over 30 dive sites, mostly located within Bacuit Bay. The most popular is Miniloc Island, a protected reef where you can find fishes, manta rays and sharks.

There are lots of diving packages offered in El Nido, from introductory courses to fun dives.

The best time to go diving is from March to May, when visibility is clearest.

If you want to stretch your muscles, you can rent a kayak for the day. There are kayaks available in El Nido town proper or Corong Corong Beach, the latter of which is closer to the islands.

The best places to kayak are Miniloc and Cadlao islands, where you’ll see lagoons (including Cadlao Lagoon, Small Lagoon and Big Lagoon) and beaches.

Make sure to bring your own snorkel and mask so you can see enjoy the underwater coral sites and a packed lunch that you can eat in a secluded beach.

Kayaking with families and friends or even by yourself is one of the best things you can do in El Nido.

• Rate : Kayak rental is P500 per day. Clear kayaks are also available in El Nido Boutique Art and Cafe.

Another activity you can do in El Nido is the zipline in Corong Corong. To get here, head to Las Cabanas and then hike for 10 minutes to reach the hill where the zipline is. You can choose a one-way zipline to Depeldet Island or have it round-trip which is what most people do.

This is an exhilarating experience and it’s fun to do even for the non-adventurous type. You can enjoy the turquoise water surrounding the islands up in the air. The distance between the two islands is 750 meters and a one-way trip takes 1 minute.

• Rate : P500 per person

There are different restaurants and bars along Bacuit Bay where you can chill and enjoy a beer or cocktail.

There is also an El Nido Party Boat, which consists of a custom tour, open bar and BBQ lunch.

Island Hopping Tours in El Nido

Here I’ll be showing you the different island hopping tours in El Nido.

Things you should know:

• The tours normally start at 9AM and end at 3-4PM.
• Inclusions are boat tour, entrance fees to islands, buffet lunch, and life vest. Depending on the tour you avail, hotel pickup may also be included.
• Everyone is required to pay an El Nido Eco-Tourism Development Fee (ETDF) of P200 each. This is valid for 10 days. Do not lose this receipt because you have to show it in every tour.
• As a recent update, combination tours are no longer allowed (i.e., it is no longer possible to see Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon in one day).

Tour A takes you to the iconic Big Lagoon, which is a popular kayaking spot. This is the one featured in most social media posts. Lunch is held at Simizu Island or Payong Payong Beach.

• Stops : Big Lagoon and Hidden Lagoon on Miniloc Island, Simizu Island or Payong Payong and 7 Commando Beach
• Rate : P1200 per person | Book discounted tour here

Additional fees:

• Big Lagoon fee – P200 / Kayak rental (optional) – P200-250

Tour B takes you to various caves and the famous Snake Island, which is a narrow sandbar.

• Stops : Snake Island, Cudugnon Cave, Entalula Island, Cathedral Cave and Popolkan Island
• Rate : P1300 per person | Book discounted tour here
• Cudugnon Cave entrance fee – P100

Tour C takes you to a few nice beaches in El Nido. Highlights include the Secret Beach, a small beach enclosed by karst rocks and can only be accessed via a narrow opening, and Matinloc Island, which is a great snorkeling area.

Visit to the Matinloc Shrine is optional. This is another favorite IG-worthy spot in El Nido.

• Stops : Matinloc Shrine, Matinloc Island, Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Tapuitan Island and Helicopter Island
• Rate : P1400 per person | Book discounted tour here
• Matinloc Shrine entrance fee – P100

Tour D takes you to the beaches in Cadlao Island and mainland. It also includes the Small Lagoon, which was formerly in Tour A.

• Stops : Small Lagoon (Miniloc Island), Nat Nat Beach, Pasandigan Cove, Paradise Beach, Ubugon Cave, Bukal Island and Cadlao Lagoon
• Rate : P1200 per person
• Small Lagoon fee – P200 / Kayak rental (optional) – P200-250

Tour E takes you to the famous Twin Beach, Nagkalit-kalit Falls and several low-key beaches in El Nido. Travel agencies offer this tour, but you can also do it DIY by hiring a tricycle on your own (P1000-1500, good for 4 pax) or renting a motorcycle (P500, good for 2 pax).

• Stops : Nacpan and Calitang Twin Beach, Nagkalit-kalit Falls, Las Cabanas or Marimegmeg Beach
• Rates : P1500 per tricycle (good for 4 pax)

Where to stay in El Nido

There are different places where you can stay at in El Nido, from hostels to luxury resorts. Most tourists stay at the town proper, which is close to major establishments such as hotels & inns, restaurants, and travel agencies. If you want a luxurious experience, you definitely want to stay in one of the many private islands in El Nido.

Here are the places you can stay at:

• Buena Suerte (town proper)
• Corong-Corong
• Calaan Beach (Masagana)
• The Islands

El Nido offers a lot of budget inns and resorts, ranging from P500 to P1000 for 1-2 people.

Here are some of the most recommended ones:

• OMP (Our Melting Pot) Hostel . Pros: Good location, WIFI in all rooms, free breakfast. Book discounted rooms here .
• Spin Designer Hostel . Pros: Good location, artsy designs, ideal for solo travelers and backpackers. Book discounted rooms here .
• Dormitels.ph . Pros: Located near Corong-Corong Beach, 1km away only from town proper. Book discounted rooms here .
• Outpost Beach Hostel . Pros: Good amenities, with private beach. Book discounted rooms here .

Did not find what you were looking for? Check out other accommodations in El Nido here.

There are budget eateries in El Nido where you can get meals for around P100. The rest of the restaurants are in the P200-350+ per dish.

Here are the most recommended restaurants in El Nido:

• Republica Sunset Bar . Offers alcohol and different pulutan. It has a great view of sunset in El Nido. Another great place for sunset watching is Panorama.
• Tratorria Altove . Offers the best pizza in El Nido.
• Taste El Nido – The Vegan Cafe PH . Offers various vegan food and delicious smoothie bowls.
• Nacpan Beach Sunmai Sunset Restaurant . Offers good food and a beautiful beach view in Nacpan.
• Boodle Fight Restaurant Bar . Offers boodle fight options including seafood.

As for us, we personally liked Republica Sunsest Bar. It’s one of the best places to view the sunset in El Nido. Food is good and affordable. Just make sure to get a seat before 5PM. Another restaurant that we liked is Prince Restaurant in Nacpan Beach. Their garlic-sauced crab dish is a must-try and costs only P200 for 2 people.

Here’s a sample 5 days itinerary to El Nido, Palawan. This is the one we followed during our trip. We spent 2 days island hopping (Tour A and Tour C) and 1 day bumming in Nacpan Beach.

For 5 days, for 2 people, a safe budget is P8000 per person.

Any other tips to add to this budget-friendly travel guide to El Nido? Post them below!

Visiting Palawan? Check out the rest of our guides in Palawan:

• Ultimate Guide to Palawan
• Top Things to Do in Palawan
• Best Beaches in Palawan

Puerto Princesa :

• Guide to Puerto Princesa Underground River
• Island Hopping in Honda Bay
• Best Resorts and Hotels in Puerto Princesa
• Travel Guide to Coron
• Best Resorts in Coron Palawan
• Travel Guide to El Nido
• Best Resorts in El Nido Palawan
• Travel Guide to Balabac
• Island Hopping in Balabac
• Onuk Island

Port Barton :

• Travel Guide to Port Barton + 3 Days Itinerary
• Top Things to Do in Port Barton
• Island Hopping in Port Barton

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Katherine Cortes is a long-time backpacker and a freelance writer/editor. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs!).

15 Comments

Hi I’m going to have a enjoyable trip. Thanks for the guidance.

Yeah in high season plan on this budget being doubled. (Also, pre-planning is a must, as all the reasonably priced accommodation is booked out weeks/months in advance). Food is about 300pesos a person/meal. Then you calculate in all the extra costs of things (drinking, transport, other activities) and it is very easy to spend 20.000pesos in a week.

hi sir thanks for posting just to ask if mas cheaper ba yung accomodtion during off peak season. .kasi where planing next august po. hope you can healp. .thanks

Katherine Cortes

Yes, I think in most places naman talaga cheaper ang accommodation pag off peak season.

An invaluable guide for a budget traveller! Thanks a lot for the insight. Message understood: the off-season between June and November is the best time. But what month would you recommend as the most convenient to plan a visit? Does it matter?

It’s not necessarily the best time as it’s within the rainy season, but the rates are cheaper during that period.

Depends on what you mean by convenient?

I guess the price will go up a lot if you add the airfare.

Yeah, it depends. Any regular local flight is expensive IMO so we always wait for promos. The cheapest we’ve booked is 200-300 RT iirc. 🙂

Hi planning to go to el nido 🙂 mas ok pala ganito kesa mag travel agency thanks 🙂 this nov sana kaso mahal ticket haha

I hope I can find 900 rate for the island hopping because I’m planning to do the A B C D tours

I hope you do too.

Hi! just a question, where did you booked that tour A and C that only cost you 900.00 pesos each? Btw I’ll be going to el nido next week and I’ll be going there solo. Thanks.

Hi Marc, I’d forgotten already. If it’s off-peak season you can just walk around, there are literally dozens of travel agencies in El Nido offering discounted tour rates. 🙂

Awesome post! My partner and I are planning to go to El Nido some time next year for 5 days and 4 nights as well. Exactly a guide I’ve been looking for. 🙂

urbanrabbit9

Thanks for posting a detailed guide to El Nido. Saved for future travels. 🙂

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Palawan itinerary 6 days — Exploring the coastal town El Nido & the port city Puerto Princesa in 6 days

If you think that traveling to the Philippines there are white sand beaches stretching in Boracay or familiar places to tourists like Cebu – Bohol , it is a pity. Living Nomads has discovered a new location that is still somewhat “human foot”. These are the port city of Puerto Princesa (Princess) and the coastal town of El Nido. Both are located in Palawan – the Philippines’s largest province. How to spend 6 days in Palawan (Palawan itinerary 6 days)? Let’s explore the nation island though our Palawan travel blog: Palawan itinerary — Exploring the coastal town El Nido & port city Puerto Princesa below.

Boracay travel blog — The fullest Boracay travel guide for first-timers

Coron travel blog — the fullest coron travel guide for first-timers, el nido vs coron palawan — comparison between coron and el nido, philippines, el nido travel blog — the fullest el nido travel guide for first-timers.

• A little guide to Boracay — The paradise island resort of the Philippines

If you love peace, like immersing in nature, or have the desire to get away from the hustle and bustle of the crowded cities, you surely must go to El Nido and Palawan. This place is very wild, few foreign tourists, most are local tourists. Living Nomads is sure that your 6 day trip in the Philippines will be you’re your expectation. This will be one of the most wonderful experiences if you love the sea, nature and the desire to explore the local places.

When to go to Palawan? What should we do?

El Nido and Puerto Princesa are coastal towns, so it is only possible to go in the dry season (from December to early May), and don’t come here at the rainy season (from May to early December). Because that is storms and heavy rain season, the sea was neither beautiful nor dangerous. The best time to visit Palawan is March and April because there is absolutely no rain, blue sea. That is great to enjoy and take photos comfortably.

Food in the Philippines uses only soy sauce because the Philippines does not have fish sauce and lemon. Soy sauce is usually mixed with vinegar, purple onion, and onion so its taste will be pungent and sour. If not familiar with taste, let’s prepare some spices such as pepper salt, shrimp salt, chili salt, a small fish sauce bottle to eat together with seafood. El Nido’s specialty is green mussel, green mango, and green mango shake. However, mangoes here are not allowed to bring on the plane because they are afraid of the beetle in the stalk and the mango peel bearing pathogens, so what to eat in El Nido, just enjoy at El Nido!

The Philippines is one hour earlier than Vietnam, and the currency here uses PHP (Philippine Piso); 1 PHP ~ 0,02 USD.

Air tickets

Airlines: Cebu Pacific Airlines (Terminal 3) & Philippine Airlines (Terminal 2)

To get to Puerto Princesa, you have to transit through Manila. If you use Cebu Pacific airline, the price is listed as follows:

SGN – MML – SGN: 13762 PHP (~ 265 USD) MNL – PPS – MNL: 5,622 PHP (~ 108 USD)

If you book tickets at both Cebu and Philippine Airlines, remember to spend more time cause each airline is at different terminals so it will take longer time for you to move.

How to get from Puerto Princesa to El Nido?

The 16-seat bus or bus are the only two means of transportation. However, traveling by bus will be more inconvenient because you have to carry your luggage to the station, while the 16-seat car will pick you up at your destination. Although the car has 16 seats, they add additional seats into the empty gap between the car (Toyota Hiace 16 seats) so it can carry 19 – 20 guests. The car parked outside the PPS airport so you just go out, someone runs to ask immediately.

The road is quite far away so those who are car – sick, remember to prepare the drug. If you go to El Nido in the morning, the two sides of the grass and flowers everywhere will make you forget the car – sick situation immediately, but If you depart at night, let’s take a nap.

Time for transport: it takes about 6 or 7 hours depending on drivers. Ticket price: PHP 400/ one way/ a 16 – seat car (~ 8 USD)

An advice for you is to buy a return ticket here for convenience, but remember to bargain because they always offer higher prices. You should always buy SIM card at the Manila airport to be easier to contact them when picking up. 3G is very weak here, mainly used in hotels.

Things to do in El Nido

To visit El Nido you can rent a motorbike to get around. However, when you have come here, you must definitely go to Hopping Island – that is to sail to visit the beautiful islands. The most famous are A, B, C and D tours that mean tours to explore the large and small islands in the area. Each tour will take a day to go, if there is more time you can go all the tour, but if you just want to go to know or not enough days to go, the suitable tours are definitely a Tour A and Tour C. The two most attractive tours guide you go to the beautiful island introduced by the native that will be introduced in the schedule well.

El Nido: Mostly hotels, guesthouses, there are not many options in downtown (near the marina). The best one is 3 stars (only 2-3 hotels) but the quality is equivalent to a guesthouse or 2 stars. Thus, do not expect too much. The areas that should be booked in guesthouses are Rizal Street and Calle Hana Street or nearby.

Puerto Princesa: This is a city, so there are more options. We stayed at Pension Del Flora (Deluxe Fan room) – 2-star hotel with room rates from $16/night. Located in a residential area, close to the center so it is easy to transport. You should ask them to prepare the early breakfast in advance. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

You can find more, check rates, availability & book for El Nido hotels on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Palawan itinerary: 6 days in Palawan (Palawan itinerary 6 days)

Day 1: saigon – manila – puerto princesa – el nido..

From Saigon to El Nido, it is also at midnight, so you book the hotel in advance in order not to look for room after a tired day, and remember that the number of hotels is very little, easy to be out of the room early.

Day 2: El Nido – Tour A (island).

Breakfast: recommended at the hotel. You can buy a cake at the only bakery in the town. Open from 07:00 AM to 17:00 PM. Should buy more food for reserve in case the lunch of the tour is not enough or not suitable for you because you are getting around the island, no one sold anything.

Tour A (Big and small Lagoon＋Shimizu Island＋7 Commandos): As mentioned, coming to El Nido without booking tour A, tour C is just the waste of the time. The first morning we decided to go with tour A. This tour includes fees such as transportation fees, lunch fees on board, even including environmental protection fees, snorkeling diving equipment (diving glasses, snorkel, ..). The tour will go through Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Secret Lagoon and Seven Commandos Beach. Every place is so amazingly beautiful.

Continued reading…

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Palawan’s Best Things To Do: An Awesome Itinerary

06/04/2022 by Ashley Yap 2 Comments

Palawan in the Philippines is a vacation unto itself. Full of island hopping adventures, dramatic cliffs, hidden lagoons, underwater rivers, and white sand beaches, you have to put in a concerted effort not to find more things to do on Palawan than you have time for.

The following itinerary has some of the best things to do on Palawan beginning from what is usually the starting point for most visitors – Puerto Princesa:

Table of Contents

1. Puerto Princesa

Possibly your first stop in Palawan, thanks to the convenient airport, Puerto Princesa has two major things to do that make it worth stopping in for a day or two.

Where to Stay:

I stayed at Blue Palawan beach resort and thought it was decent. The restaurant was pretty good and the room was nice, too. They also offer free airport transport. It’s not the best place I’ve ever stayed, but neither is Puerto Princesa, to be honest!

Things to Do:

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park: Though not exactly in Puerto Princesa, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains the second longest underground river in the world. It is touristy and it takes quite a while to get there from Puerto Princesa, but when else are you going to get the chance to see such a thing?

Honda Bay:  Since I only had a day in Puerto Princesa, I chose to island hop in Honda Bay, which is about a 30-minute tricycle ride north of the city. There are plenty of options to do this as an organized tour, but I really wanted to do it independently, which worked out cheaper, too. You can read more about the islands, see what they look like, and learn how to do a Honda Bay DIY trip here.

Where to Go Next:

Most people head from Puerto Princesa to El Nido. I have  full directions on how to do that using a bus, van, or flight here . You can also stop in Port Barton on the way, or go from El Nido if you had been there first. See below for more details:

El Nido is arguably Palawan’s most famous stop. When you head there and see the lagoons and limestone cliffs, you’ll understand why. There’s nowhere in the world quite like El Nido. That said, it’s also a tourist favorite, so don’t expect to get it all to yourself.

How to Get to El Nido:

The easiest way to get to El Nido is to fly, either from Puerto Princesa or from Manila. I have more information on how to get there here .

Click here for a list of tried-and-tested best hotels in El Nido!

Most people go island hopping in El Nido . If you don’t island hop at least one day, you’re missing out on most of the magic of El Nido. The island hopping is pretty rigid in its organization, with tours named A-D with the same stops on each. If you take a private tour you can customize things a bit more, though it’s a pretty penny. There are also great places to watch the sunset, do yoga, and check out other beaches and a waterfall. Read more at the links below:

Tour A: private tour here , group tour here

Tour B: private tour here , group tour here

Tour C: group tour here

All of the Things to do in El Nido

3. Port Barton

When making our way through Palawan, the place I was most excited to visit was Port Barton . From what we had read online, it was meant to be much more secluded and far less developed than most other parts of Palawan, and  I was not disappointed! It has just as much of the beauty and charm of El Nido and Coron, but with far fewer backpackers.

How to Get to Port Barton:

Getting to Port Barton is very easy. Most get there from El Nido or Puerto Princesa. The cost for a 3 and a half hour minibus transfer from El Nido was 500PHP per person.

Though Port Barton is still very much up and coming, it has developed a lot in the last 12 months. They finally got 24 hour electricity at the end of 2018, and there are now a lot more homestays there than there were before. We stayed at Eashanti’s Place and I would definitely recommend it. However, if you are into partying and drinking late into the night, then the number one backpacker hostel for cheap drinks is CocoRico Hostel Bar and Restaurant . They have free rum and coke for an hour every day and are blasting music late into the night. For me, I much preferred strolling along the beach and dining in the many peaceful restaurants with seating literally right on the beach.

There is so much to do there, with the most popular activity being the day long island hopping tour which takes you to some awesome snorkelling spots and to incredible beaches. One stop even offers the chance to swim with sea turtles, which we weren’t able to do anywhere else in Palawan. Some other activities to consider doing when in Port Barton include: ● Visiting White Beach ● Enjoying the sunset from Port Barton’s main beach ● Hiking to Pamuayan Falls ● Taking a boat ride and trek to Bigaho Falls

– Bradley of Dream Big, Travel Far

4. Taytay (Flower Island Eco Resort)

If playing castaway on a private island in the Philippines is on your bucket list, look no further than Taytay , a small island that’s just off the coast of northeast Palawan. Away from the crowds of El Nido, this Island provides quiet, solitude and a back-to-nature approach to island life in the Philippines.

Taytay was once the capital of Palawan during the Spanish colonial occupation, and although there’s not much to do in the town itself, it’s a useful jumping off point for island exploration, and there are reportedly some nice waterfall treks just to the north.

How to Get to Taytay:

You can take a shuttle from Puerto Princesa to Taytay, which takes about four hours. If you want a private transfer the resort can help you arrange that, but the best value option is to take one of the regular shared shuttles.

From Taytay you’ll need to get a private boat from the resort (pre-arrange this) – there are no public ferries as this is a private island.

Accessed by private ferry from the port of Taytay, Flower Island Eco Resort is the only building on this small island, and has been constructed out of low-impact materials. Mid-Range beach huts (mostly ventilated using the breeze) front the beach, which if you come during low season you may well have to yourself (or at most to a few other hotel guests).

The resort’s main mission is to preserve the island and surrounding nature through tourism. It’s largely self-sufficient and much of the food is grown on the island (or fished by line from the end of the hotel’s pier). To reduce food waste, each day has a different, surprise menu, where you get the best and freshest.

We went to visit the Save the Palawan Seas Foundation on a nearby island, which the resort mentioned above supports. The foundation has been campaigning to increase patrols against dynamite fishing (a huge threat to the coral in this part of the world as fish stocks decline due to pollution and local fishermen resort to more and more desperate measures to fetch a decent catch). They also teach villagers methods to grow their own vegetables at home, without pesticides, in order to reduce poverty. Spending an hour or two with the volunteers was a memorable part of our stay here and showed us some of the challenges and opportunities that lie in store for Islanders here.

Back on Flower Island, there’s a spa, cocktail bar, kayaks and snorkeling equipment aplenty and so we took to the water to see in an incredible array of color under the surface. The resort also offers tours to a nearby Pearl Farm which provides an interesting insight into how the pearl industry works, and how this delicate process is being threatened by climate change.

– Ellie of Soul Travel Blog

5. Coron Island

Though Coron and El Nido are quite similar, they each have their own striking features that set them apart from one another, and both are worth visiting. Island hopping in Coron is quite magical, with islands that have caves, hidden lagoons (like the Twin Lagoon ), and even quiet tree houses.

How to Get to Coron Island:

“If traveling from El Nido, it’s possible to take a ferry to Coron Town Proper, which takes a couple of hours. You can also fly from El Nido or Manila into the airport, which will require a tricycle, taxi, or van ride of about 30 minutes to your accommodation. You can also take a TAO expedition, described in point 6 below.

I stayed at  Sanctuaria Treehouses  on the more northwestern, quiet side of Busuanga Island, just outside of Coron for two days and closer to Coron Town Proper for two days at Sophia’s Garden Resort and thought splitting time was the best way to do it. It gave me access to some of the farther, less visited islands at the beginning of my trip and proximity to the more popular Coron Island across the bay for the latter half.

Update 2023: Unfortunately, Sophia’s Garden Resort closed down due to the pandemic. Here’s a list  of tried and tested hotel recommendations by my team member, who visited Coron in 2023!

Like El Nido, you haven’t seen Coron if you haven’t island hopped (mostly because the island of Coron is not on the same island as Coron town, confusingly!). It’s a bit easier to go about organizing your own boat and picking your own stops in Coron than El Nido, which I detailed in this post . You can also find other things to do like hiking and even a saltwater hot spring – one of few in the world. The SCUBA diving is considered the best in the Philippines in Coron thanks to the WWII wrecks and Apo Reef as well.

If you’re trying to decide between Coron and El Nido, I go into the benefits and drawbacks of both in this post .

6. TAO Expedition

Taking an expedition with TAO Philippines is a great way to experience some of the most beautiful islands of Palawan.

TAO Philippines is a locally owned company that runs multi-day island hopping tours through the remote islands of Northern Palawan. They offer both 3 and 5-day tours, which start and end in El Nido or Coron.

There is no itinerary or plan for the expedition. The days are spent swimming in turquoise waters, snorkeling through vibrant coral reefs, chilling on secluded beaches, and fishing off the back of the boat. At the end of each day, they supply drinks to enjoy while watching the gorgeous sunset.

TAO has 13 base camps on remote islands throughout Palawan and each day the team decides where to sleep that night. Accommodations are in gorgeous bamboo huts overlooking the ocean. Three delicious meals are served each day, which usually involve fresh seafood caught just before it’s served.

What I love about TAO is that they are more than a regular tour company, it’s a social enterprise. They use tourism as a tool to build resilient communities throughout Palawan. During the tour, you get many opportunities to interact with the local communities and see the various projects TAO has started on the islands.

The cost of the tour is $545 USD but well worth every penny. TAO is one of the most unique tours I’ve ever done and a great example of responsible tourism. If you want to join a TAO Expedition, you can book online through their website or visit their office in El Nido or Coron.

Taking a TAO Expedition was the highlight of my time in the Philippines, it’s the perfect tour for those looking for an adventure you can feel good about.

– Lora of Explore with Lora

7. Cuyo Island

Cuyo is often described as Philippines hidden gem and now I can see why. The oldest town in Palawan, Cuyo is full of rich culture which has evolved from both native and Spanish influences. Cuyo is perfect for those looking to relax on the white sandy beaches, take a dip in the crystal clear waters, eat tasty Filipino food, and interact with the locals who believe in a simple, carefree life.

How to Get to Cuyo:

Cuyo is the largest island of the Cuyo Archipelago with the biggest population and is situated in between Palawan and Panay. The most common option of transport is by ferry, however, the airline Juan Air also runs flights to Cuyo. We choose the overnight ferry option to save a night on accommodation, which took around 15 hours. Yes, that sounds like a long time, but don’t worry we managed a few hours’ sleep! The ferry is comfortable and they provide snacks, but if you’re a fussy eater like me, I’d suggest you take your own.

There’s never a bad time to visit Cuyo, however if you want to miss the rainfall it’s best to visit November until March when the weather tends to be drier and cooler. However, during rainy seasons you’ll only be greeted by short sharp bursts, which brings a period of wanted coolness! If you’re lucky enough to visit Cuyo during August you’ll get your experience the Cuyo Fiesta, full of dance, colour, and music to celebrate.

If you’re looking for a sweet place to stay, then you should check out the Anino Kite Resort . Just one mile from the airport this top accommodation on Cuyo offers WiFi, clean rooms and a free breakfast.

First Name:

You can hire a boat for the day and explore the many islands situated around Cuyo to get some amazing photos, and the best part is that you’ll have the place all to yourself, unlike the famous El Nido and Coron (although, there are some clever ways to ditch the crowds in Coron! ). For the adrenaline junkies out there, Cuyo is an awesome place to learn kitesurfing. Swimming and relaxing on the beach are great, but watch out for the sea urchins – I’d recommend water shoes!

Just 300 meters from the pier, St Augustine’s Church was constructed by the Spanish missionaries in the 17th century, and its architecture is simple yet worth taking a look at. The church remains the most popular place in town to attend mass. Finally, we recommend hiking up Mt Aguado. Enjoy this 4km hike starting from the pier to take in 360 degree views of Cuyo Island, as well as the statues along the way telling the story of Christ.

– Louis of The Northern Boy

Many places claim to be ‘off-the-beaten-track’ but Rizal , on Palawan’s south-west coast, really fits the bill. With many uninhabited beach coves lining the coastline, you’ll no doubt find a secluded spot to enjoy the unspoiled white sandy beaches, calm azure waters and some genuine peace and quiet – you’ll likely be the only tourist for miles. 

How to get to Rizal:

It’s not easy to get here; once you’ve flown into Puerto Princesa you’ll need to navigate a five+ hour journey out of the city, down some deserted roads, across dirt tracks – and even through a thick, seemingly impenetrable forest.  

But once you arrive, you’ll understand why the journey is worth it. Many places claim to be ‘off-the-beaten-track’, but Rizal really means it. We can almost guarantee that on this secluded section of Filipino coastline, you’ll be the only tourist there.  

We stayed at Momma Sally’s Guesthouse . Momma Sally is a Filipino native who grew up on this patch of land; she knows the area by heart. She can arrange an airport pick-up, provide you with home-cooked food, and take you to the market, should you desire.  

This really is the perfect place to live the deserted-beach lifestyle for a week, safe in the knowledge you’ve got a friend looking out for you.  

What to Do:

I spent a week moving from deserted beach-cove hut to sea-side hammock, with only local fishermen and friendly stray dogs as company. After early morning wakeup calls from the resident rooster, I spent my days watching unspoilt sunrises, drinking coffee, eating fresh fish, and alternating between reading a book on the hammock and dozing on the sand. 

If you’re worrying how you’ll be able to pass the time with so little to do – I wouldn’t. I’m one of the most active travellers I know, but Rizal really taught me to relax and appreciate mother earth’s true beauty. There’s a local market nearby which is worth prizing yourself off the hammock for, to take in rural Filipino life – oh, and to stock up on delicious fresh fruit for your next few days of lazing.

– Katie of Contemporary Class 

9. Tabon Caves

It may not be one of the most famous spots in the Philippines, but the Tabon Caves is one of the most significant. It’s worth visiting to learn more about the important history of this site – and enjoy the stunning natural scenery that comes as a bonus!

How to get to Tabon Caves:

The easiest way to visit Tabon Caves is by tour from Puerto Princesa. If you shop around, you’ll be able to find one that’s not much more expensive than doing it independently. If you would like to do it yourself, you can get the bus to the small town of Quezon and go across by boat (about 800 pesos for the boat, with up to 6 people).

There are only a couple of guesthouses in Quezon (such as Noc’s Pension House ), so it’s possible to stay overnight if you want. But unless there are other things you would like to do in the area, it’s probably better to base yourself closer to (or in) Puerto Princesa and do Tabon Caves as a day trip.

There are two reasons why Tabon Caves are such an important Palawan site – one about nature and one about man. When it comes to nature, it’s easy to see for yourself. These beautiful caves open up in front of you, offering an easy exploration into caverns filled with interesting rock formations. Around them is a lush green jungle and a stunning coastline with a couple of beaches for swimming and picnics.

But it’s the history that makes them so special. It’s here that some of the oldest evidence of humans in Asia have been found. There was a famous discovery of the skeleton of the ‘Tabon Man’, that’s thought to be about 30,000 years old (and turned out to actually be a woman). And another fossilised bone fragment found here is estimated to be up to 50,000 years old!

When you stand in these caves or walk through the darkened tunnels, you can almost imagine what it would have been like for early man to shelter here at night and eat the meals that they had hunted in the jungles around them. There are about 30 protected caves here at the Tabon Caves complex but only seven are usually open to the public. They are easily accessible and there’s no climbing involved – there are even stairs in some of the steeper ones. It’s more of a museum than an adventure activity – but the nature has been quite well-preserved.

– Michael of Time Travel Turtle

10. Balabac

Balabac is a group of islands in the southernmost tip of Palawan. Once an off-beat location, it’s becoming a more popular destination due to its virgin islands and sand bars.

How to get to Balabac:

To get to Balabac, you need to take a local flight to Puerto Princesa, Palawan. From there, commute to either Rio Tuba or Buliluyan port, where boats can take you to Balabac.

To get to the islands, you can arrange for an island hopping tour. Some locals also offer full packages, which include transfer from/to Balabac, accommodation and food.

For the accommodation, you can either camp overnight on the islands or stay in modest inns in mainland Balabac island. For the first, it’s best to consult with your boat operator as some islands aren’t ideal for overnight stays due to permission issues or insects.

Once you’re here the one thing you can do is relax and island hop. You can visit Onuk Island, a private island with white sand, blue water and where you can freedive to see giant clams and turtles. Onuk Island is the most sought-after islands in Balabac. You can also see Candaraman Island, another great beach that can easily beat popular tropical beaches around the world, and which has an area called “starfish alley” where you can take pictures with literally dozens of starfishes; Camiaran Island, a pinkish-sand beach; Mansalangan sand bar, with its picturesque sand formation; and Punta Sebaring, which has one of the finest, whitest sands in the country.

Island hopping can easily be done in 3 days.

Balabac is also known for whale sharks sightings and some higher end liveaboard diving opportunities.

Another thing that you can enjoy in Balabac is fresh, cheap seafood. Fish, shrimp, and crabs can be bought early in the morning from local fishers or, during island hopping tours, caught and/or cooked by your boat operator.

– Tara of Tara Lets Anywhere

I hope this itinerary gives you an idea of some of the best things to do in Palawan. It’s a gorgeous province of the Philippines with tons of variety, some very popular spots, and some off the beaten path gems.

The Perfect Philippines Itinerary

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01/30/2020 at 3:40 am

I love your posts, so clear and interesting! I am going for the first time to Philippines and i am really excited. However i only have 8 days this time as I am going to do a yoga teaching for a month right after.

my question is: If you are first time travelling to Philippines and have only 8 days should I do 1. Port Barton and el Nido or 2. Siargao ?

I am a lot into exploring and ideally less crowded more paradise like. I dont need any ‘luxury’ and I am going by my self end of Feb. any suggestions?

I know El Nido is like ‘THE’ place but i am not sure about how busy and tourity it might feel. In the other side Siargao seems really nice but not sure if the beauty would compare to el Nido.

Kristin says

01/30/2020 at 5:12 am

If you want it to be less touristy and you’re cool with getting on a motorbike to explore then consider Siargao, or if you want even less touristy then take a look at Siquijor or Camiguin! Siquijor info here: https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/siquijor-island-tourist-spots/

Airport Transfer

Things to do.

Xperience Team

10 Apr 2024 - 5 min read

Unlock Paradise: Your Ultimate 7-Day Palawan Adventure Itinerary

Explore the best views in Puerto Princesa for an unforgettable experience

Palawan, situated in the western part of the Philippines, extends between the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea. This collection of more than 1,780 islands and islets features an extensive, mountainous backbone and a shoreline adorned with lively coral reefs. Celebrated for its stunning scenery, Palawan frequently earns top spots on travel charts owing to its varied terrain. Tourists can traverse between islands through transparent waters, admire secluded lagoons and cliffs of limestone, investigate remnants of World War II shipwrecks, or hike amid verdant forests abundant with wildlife.

Absolutely, a vacation in Palawan promises excitement. If you're gearing up for a seven-day getaway there, here's a suggested itinerary for your week-long adventure in Palawan.

7 Days Palawan Itinerary

Here are some itinerary ideas for your unforgettable seven-day Palawan getaway.

Day 1: Visit El Nido

Upon arrival in El Nido, whether through Manila or Puerto Princesa, your adventure begins. Check into your chosen hotel and let the serene ambiance of the beach wash over you as you unwind. As the sun sets, delve into the heart of El Nido town, where a plethora of dining options and vibrant bars await. Immerse yourself in the local culture, savouring delectable cuisine and mingling with fellow travellers. Let the first day of your journey be a testament to the beauty and warmth of El Nido, setting the stage for unforgettable experiences yet to come.

Day 2: Join El Nido Island Hopping Tour

Begin your journey on a full-day island hopping adventure in El Nido , where a selection of breathtaking sights await your discovery. Choose from four distinct tours, each offering its own unique charm and allure.

Opt for Tour A, the most sought-after excursion, leading you to enchanting destinations like the Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Big Lagoon, and Seven Commandos Beach.

Alternatively, delve into Tour B and explore Snake Island, Cadlao Lagoon, Cathedral Cave, and Pinagbuyutan Island for a day filled with wonder. Tour C awaits with its Hidden Beach, Matinloc Island, Star Beach, and Secret Beach, promising secluded paradises and pristine shores.

For the adventurous souls, Tour D ventures farthest, unveiling the treasures of Vigan Island, Cowrie Island, Kalanggaman Island, and Tapiasan Island. Whichever tour you choose, prepare for a day brimming with awe-inspiring natural beauty and unforgettable experiences amidst the turquoise waters of El Nido.

El Nido Tour A and B - 2 Days

Day 3: Wander around El Nido Beaches

On your third day in El Nido, embrace freedom and adventure by renting a motorbike or tricycle to explore the pristine beaches surrounding the town. Discover the idyllic shores of Las Cabanas Beach, Marimegmeg Beach, and Nacpan Beach, each offering its own slice of paradise just a stone's throw away. In the afternoon, get on a boat trip to the Secret Lagoon, a mesmerizing hidden gem nestled amidst towering limestone cliffs, promising a tranquil oasis and unforgettable moments of serenity.

Day 4: Visit Coron

On day four, take a picturesque ferry journey from El Nido to Coron, a four-hour voyage showcasing the breathtaking landscapes of Palawan. As you cruise through the azure waters, soak in the beauty of the surrounding scenery, from towering limestone cliffs to pristine shores.

Upon arrival in Coron town, settle into your hotel and then set out to explore the charming streets lined with shops and restaurants. Spend the afternoon immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and culinary delights that Coron has to offer.

Day 5: Join an Island Hopping Tour in Coron

Day five in Coron promises a thrilling adventure as you get on a full-day island hopping tour . Coron's renowned World War II shipwrecks and vibrant coral reefs await your exploration. Highlights of the tour include the mesmerising Kayangan Lake, cradled amidst limestone cliffs and offering crystal-clear freshwater serenity.

Twin Lagoon enchants with its dual entrances, while the Skeleton Wreck unveils a poignant relic of history beneath the waves. Dive into the depths of Barracuda Lake, a saltwater oasis teeming with marine life. Prepare for a day filled with wonder and discovery amidst Coron's natural wonders.

Coron Island Ultimate Tour: Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, and Coral Garden | Philippines

Day 6: Snorkel or Diving in Coron

Set off on a diving or snorkelling adventure on day six to immerse yourself in the captivating world of Coron's renowned coral reefs. Known for their diversity and pristine condition, Coron's underwater ecosystems offer a kaleidoscope of colors and marine life. Explore vibrant coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, and glide alongside majestic sea turtles in their natural habitat. Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters, where every dive unveils a new realm of underwater beauty, making for an unforgettable exploration of Coron's aquatic wonders.

Day 7: Relax on Coron Beach

On day seven, unwind on the tranquil beaches of Coron or venture further into the heart of the town's vibrant streets. Whether you choose to bask in the sun's warmth or wander through the bustling markets, Coron offers endless opportunities for relaxation and exploration. As the afternoon approaches, bid farewell to this paradise as you board a ferry back to Puerto Princesa or catch a flight to your next destination. Reflect on the memories made and carry the spirit of Coron's beauty with you as you journey onward.

Feel free to customise this itinerary according to your interests and preferences as this is just a suggestion. With Palawan's abundance of attractions, your exploration of this stunning island is bound to be filled with wonderful experiences and unforgettable moments!

Travel Tips to Palawan

When preparing for your journey to Palawan, consider these helpful travel tips to enhance your experience:

Firstly, aim to visit during the dry season, spanning from November to May, to make the most of the island's stunning landscapes and outdoor activities.

Keep in mind that Palawan tends to be pricier compared to other destinations in the Philippines, so budget accordingly and plan for extra expenses.

To ensure a smooth trip, make reservations for tours and Coron accommodations well in advance, particularly if you're travelling during peak season when availability can be limited.

While there are ATMs available in El Nido and Coron, carrying some cash is advisable for convenience and in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

Also, Remember that the local currency is the Philippine peso (PHP), so be prepared to exchange currency accordingly.

Flight to Palawan

Cebu Pacific

Start from S$ 37.37

Cebu (CEB) to Puerto Princesa - Palawan (PPS)

Sat, 25 May 2024

Start from S$ 115.41

Cagayan de Oro (CGY) to Puerto Princesa - Palawan (PPS)

Fri, 31 May 2024

Start from S$ 131.09

Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Puerto Princesa - Palawan (PPS)

Sat, 11 May 2024

Although tipping is not mandatory in the Philippines, it's always appreciated for excellent service. Consider showing your gratitude to guides, drivers, and hospitality staff with a small token of appreciation. With these tips in mind, you'll be better equipped to make the most of your Palawan adventure.

As you conclude your journey through this seven-day Palawan itinerary, it's evident that this island paradise offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be explored. From pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs to historical landmarks and lush forests, Palawan has something for every traveller.

Now that you're equipped with a comprehensive plan, it's time to turn your dreams into reality. Book your flights and accommodations with Traveloka today and get on the adventure of a lifetime in Palawan. Let Traveloka be your trusted companion as you create memories that will last a lifetime in this tropical haven. Start planning your Palawan getaway now and make every moment count with Traveloka.

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