El Nido, Palawan, is a tropical paradise known for its crystal-clear waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and abundant marine life. Whether you're an adventurer, a beach lover, or a laid-back traveler seeking serenity, El Nido has something for everyone. If you're planning a trip to this stunning destination, here’s a guide to the top things you must experience.
1. Go on an Island-Hopping Adventure
El Nido is famous for its island-hopping tours, which are categorized into Tours A, B, C, and D. Each tour takes you to a different selection of breathtaking islands, lagoons, and beaches.
- Tour A: The most popular tour, featuring the Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and 7 Commandos Beach. (Price range: PHP 1,200 - 1,500 per person)
- Tour B: Covers Snake Island, Cudugnon Cave, Cathedral Cave, Pinagbuyutan Island, and Entalula Beach. (Price range: PHP 1,300 - 1,700 per person)
- Tour C: Highlights include Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Helicopter Island, and Tapiutan Island. (Price range: PHP 1,400 - 1,800 per person)
- Tour D: Less crowded and perfect for relaxation, featuring Cadlao Lagoon, Pasandigan Beach, Nat-Nat Beach, and Bukal Beach. (Price range: PHP 1,200 - 1,500 per person)
Each tour offers a unique experience with opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and exploring. Environmental fees may apply.
2. Visit Nacpan Beach
Nacpan Beach is a long stretch of golden sand located about an hour from El Nido town. It is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines. You can relax under the sun, swim in its clear waters, or have a meal at a beachfront restaurant. (Transport rental: PHP 500 - 1,000; Entrance: Free)
3. Explore the Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon
These two lagoons are iconic spots in El Nido, known for their emerald-green waters and towering limestone cliffs. You can rent a kayak and paddle through the stunning landscape, enjoying the tranquility of these natural wonders. (Kayak rental: PHP 250 - 500 per hour; Included in Tour A)
4. Climb Taraw Cliff for a Panoramic View
If you're up for an adventure, climbing Taraw Cliff is a must. The hike is steep and challenging, but the reward is a breathtaking panoramic view of El Nido town and Bacuit Bay. For a safer alternative, opt for the Canopy Walk, where you can still enjoy stunning views with safety harnesses in place. (Canopy Walk: PHP 400 - 500 per person; Taraw Cliff: PHP 500 - 700 with a guide)
5. Discover Secret Beach
Accessible only through a small rock opening, Secret Beach is a hidden gem that inspired Alex Garland’s novel The Beach. Once inside, you’ll be welcomed by a stunning white sand beach surrounded by towering limestone formations. (Included in Tour C)
6. Enjoy Sunset at Las Cabanas Beach
For a relaxing evening, head to Las Cabanas Beach, where you can enjoy a spectacular sunset while sipping a cocktail at one of the beachfront bars. You can also try the Las Cabanas zip line, which takes you across the ocean with a thrilling aerial view of the beach. (Zipline: PHP 500 - 700 round trip)
7. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
El Nido is home to diverse marine life and vibrant coral reefs, making it a paradise for divers and snorkelers. Some of the best dive spots include:
- Dilumacad Tunnel – An underwater tunnel for experienced divers.
- South Miniloc – A prime spot for spotting schools of fish.
- North Rock – Known for its diverse marine species and strong currents.
For snorkeling, you can visit Shimizu Island, Matinloc Island, or Twin Rocks to see colorful fish and coral gardens. (Scuba diving: PHP 3,500 - 4,500 per dive; Snorkeling gear rental: PHP 150 - 300 per day)
8. Visit the Matinloc Shrine
Located on Matinloc Island, this abandoned shrine offers a mix of history, stunning views, and an eerie yet fascinating vibe. Climb up to the viewpoint for an incredible panoramic view of Bacuit Bay. (Included in Tour C; Entrance fee: PHP 100 - 200)
9. Explore Cudugnon Cave
Cudugnon Cave is a historical site where ancient artifacts and human remains were found, believed to belong to early settlers from Borneo. You can explore the cave’s interior and enjoy the surrounding rock formations. (Included in Tour B)
10. Try Local Delicacies
No trip is complete without trying the local food! Some must-try dishes include:
- Kinilaw – A Filipino-style ceviche made with fresh fish marinated in vinegar, calamansi, and spices.
- Fresh seafood – Grilled fish, squid, shrimp, and lobster are available in beachfront restaurants. (Meals: PHP 250 - 700 per person)
- Tamilok – A delicacy made from woodworms, known for its oyster-like taste.
- Halo-Halo – A famous Filipino dessert with crushed ice, sweetened fruits, and milk.
11. Explore the Mangroves on a Paddleboard
For a more laid-back adventure, rent a paddleboard and navigate through the mangroves of El Nido. This eco-tour allows you to appreciate the serene nature while spotting birds and marine life. (Paddleboard rental: PHP 300 - 500 per hour)
12. Experience Camping on a Remote Island
If you want a unique experience, book an overnight camping trip on one of El Nido’s remote islands. Spend the night under the stars, enjoy a bonfire, and wake up to the sound of the ocean. (Camping packages: PHP 1,500 - 3,000 per person, including food and tents)
13. Go on a Private Yacht Tour
For a more luxurious experience, consider hiring a private yacht to explore the islands at your own pace. This is perfect for honeymooners or those who want a more intimate and exclusive tour. (Private yacht rental: PHP 15,000 - 30,000 per day, depending on the package)
14. Rent a Motorbike and Explore Inland
If you prefer exploring at your own pace, rent a motorbike and visit El Nido’s hidden spots like Duli Beach (a surfer’s paradise), Nagkalit-Kalit Waterfalls, and Bulalacao Falls for a refreshing swim. (Motorbike rental: PHP 500 - 800 per day)
15. Take a Day Trip to Balabac or Linapacan
If you have extra time, consider a side trip to Linapacan, home to some of the clearest waters in the world, or Balabac, a lesser-known paradise with pink sand beaches and turquoise waters. (Prices vary depending on tour package)
Final Thoughts
El Nido is a paradise waiting to be explored, offering an unforgettable mix of adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you're island-hopping, diving, hiking, or just lounging on a beach, this destination guarantees an incredible travel experience.
If you're planning a trip to El Nido, make sure to pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure! Have you been to El Nido before? Share your experiences in the comments below!