el nido tour diy

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 ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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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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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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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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4D3N El Nido + Puerto Princesa: A Must-Have DIY Guide 2024

Table of Contents

• Day 1: Arrival at Lio Airport, El Nido
• El Nido Tour A Highlights
• El Nido Tour A Additional Fees
• Transfer from El Nido to Puerto Princesa
• Explore Puerto Princesa City
• Puerto Princesa City Highlights
• Getting around Puerto Princesa City
• Puerto Princesa Underground River Highlights
• Attractions and Activities
• Frequently asked Questions
• Sample Itinerary with Budget

Planning a trip can be confusing, especially when you want to see beautiful places like Puerto Princesa City and El Nido on Palawan Island. You might wonder, "How can I enjoy both places in 4 days and 3 nights?" 

This guide is here to help you figure it out. Whether it's your first time in Palawan or you've been before, this guide will make your trip unforgettable.

El Nido and Puerto Princesa are two of Palawan's most popular tourist destinations. 

These destinations are a dream come true for people who like beautiful scenery, such as the Big Lagoon in El Nido and the Underground River in Puerto Princesa, and activities like snorkeling, island hopping, and kayaking.

In this post, you can find information on how we traveled to El Nido and Puerto Princesa, the places we visited, itineraries, a breakdown of expenses, my insights about the tour, and tips. I hope you find this information useful for your next El Nido and Puerto Princesa trip.

• A 4-day trip plan for El Nido and Puerto Princesa.
• A detailed tour for each day.
• Answers to common questions.

Sample 4D3N Itinerary with Budget

There is only one airline that can take you to El Nido, and that is AirSwift . Our flight was delayed for an hour so we had to wait.

We arrived in El Nido in the afternoon. Upon exit, motor tricycle drivers were waiting outside the airport. Since we were 16 people when we traveled to El Nido, we preferred to book a private van. If you want a private van transfer, you can book a van transfer from El Nido airport to your hotel here.

It takes around 20 minutes to drive from Lio Airport to downtown El Nido, just 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) away. After we checked in, we explored the El Nido Beach area and looked for dinner afterward.

Day 2: El Nido Island Hopping (Tour A)

El Nido offers four commercialized island-hopping tours: Tour A, B, C, and D. We chose Tour A because it's the most popular.

Our tour didn't have a hotel pickup, so we hired tricycles to drop us off at the meeting area. In our case, the meet-up area is the Forever Blessed Hotel on Serena Street, El Nido Beach Area (Near El Nido Docking Area). The meet-up area may vary depending on your tour package. Meet-up time is 8:00-8:30 a.m.

Upon arrival, we were asked to register and pay additional fees:

• Environmental Fee: PHP 200
• Big Lagoon Fee: PHP 200 (paid on the Big Lagoon stop)
• Kayak Rental: PHP 300 to PHP 400 (paid at the Big Lagoon stop)

Once the payment was settled, we hopped on our boat and proceeded with the tour. Here are the highlights of our tour. Note that the itinerary may slightly change due to crowd control.

• Our first stop was at 7 Commando Beach . According to our tour guide, it was named 7 Commando Beach because a massive fishing vessel was stranded here, and the name of the vessel was Seven Commando. The area has a beach volleyball court and a ball where you can also play.
• Our second stop was the popular Big Lagoon . It's one of the most beautiful lagoons in the area. Rippling clear waters and rock formations will surround you. The main activity here is swimming and kayaking. We went to the inner part of the lagoon. It was so peaceful and beautiful.
• Afterward, we had lunch at Shimizu Island . Our lunch was great, and fresh coconuts were also being sold in the area. We stayed in Shimzuo Island for a while before our next stop.
• We then continued to the Secret Lagoon . You will need to pass a small hole to enter the Secret Lagoon because the area is surrounded by rocks. 
• Our last activity was snorkeling. The snorkeling site is between Inatula Island and Shimizu Island.

DAY 3: Transfer from El Nido to Puerto Princesa

This section includes information on how to get to Puerto Princesa from El Nido and what to expect in the Puerto Princesa City tour.

The most popular and convenient way to travel between Puerto Princesa and El Nido is by van, which takes 5 to 6 hours. Alternatively, you can take the Cherry bus, but the travel time may be longer.

We decided to travel to Puerto Princesa in the morning and then book a city tour in the afternoon.

Shared El Nido to Puerto Princesa Van Schedules:

Van Schedule: Monday-Sunday (schedule may vary)      

Note that the pickup times and places for private and shared van transfers differ. We booked the private van transfer because we are a group of 16, which allowed us to decide the pick-up time and place.

The shared van transfer pick-up location varies. If you booked online, double-check whether the transfer includes hotel pickup. The shared van transfer cannot guarantee a 4-5-hour trip because it will stop, pick up, and wait for other passengers.

You can also go to the El Nido Bus terminal early and then directly book a ticket there with your preferred schedule. The most common and recommended van company is the Eulen Joy Express.

We asked our private van to be picked up by 7 AM because I had read the reviews about delays, and I was right. We booked two private vans. The first van was on time, while the other van was late. We stopped for breakfast and grabbed snacks because we might be unable to take our lunch due to a tight schedule. We arrived in Puerto Princesa at lunch, so we were still able to continue our Puerto Princesa city tour scheduled at 1 p.m.

Puerto Princesa City Tour

When we arrived in Puerto Princesa, our tour guide was already there. She was kind enough to wait, so we immediately checked in and skipped lunch.

Our tour guide was very energetic, witty, and funny. She made our tour lively. Here are our tour highlights:

• Immaculate Conception Cathedral
• Plaza Cuartel
• Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (Crocodile Farm)
• Binuatan Creations
• The Baywalk
• Bakers Hill
• Mitra's Ranch
• Souvenir Shops

In the evening, we visited the night market area, where most souvenir shops, pubs, and clubs were open.

Day 4: Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour

This is the most popular attraction in Puerto Princesa. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to a "mountain to sea" ecosystem that includes some of the most significant and intact old-growth forests in Asia.

The Underground River is located in Sabang, which is 1 hour and 30 minutes away from the city, so we were scheduled to be picked up at 7 AM.

• We were asked to register and wait for our boat when we arrived at Sabang.
• The boat will transport you to the neighboring island, where you will trek for a few minutes before reaching the entrance of the underground river.
• We had to wait because there was a lineup. When it was our turn, we hopped on our paddle boat and were given a headset for the audio.
• The guided paddle boat will take you through the beautiful tunnel system of the underground river, where you can see the natural beauty of the rock formations, which is still the best part of the trip.
• We then take our buffet lunch at Cacaoyan Park before being driven back to your hotel.

More Puerto Princesa Attractions and Activities

• Cacaoyan Forest Park: It provides Bali-inspired amenities where you can take pictures after lunch
• Mangrove Park: This is a guided paddle boat tour cruising through hundreds of enormous mangrove trees.
• Sabang X Zipline: A zipline that takes you 150 feet above sea level and provides breathtaking views of Sabang Beach. 
• Ugong Rock Zip Line: A single-rider zipline with a 71-meter drop

If you haven't booked one of these attractions or activities, your underground river tour guide will ask you if you want to book these activities.

Note that they collect an environmental fee of PHP 150.

By the way, try out the tamilok , an exotic delicacy with a woodworm soaked in vinegar.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the land travel from el nido to puerto princesa take.

• The journey from Puerto Princesa to El Nido typically takes 5 to 6 hours by road. However, the exact duration can vary depending on the mode of transport, traffic conditions, and tour changes.

How much fare from El Nido to Puerto Princesa?

• Fares for the trip between Puerto Princesa and El Nido vary. A seat on a minivan service can cost around PHP 600 to PHP 1,000 (approximately USD 11 to USD 20), depending on the service provider and whether you book a private or shared ride. The most common van companies are the Eulen Joy Express and Fortwally Travel.

Is there a bus from El Nido to Puerto Princesa?

• Yes, there are buses that run between El Nido and Puerto Princesa. The most popular bus company is the Cherry Bus. The travel time is at least 6-8 hours.

Is Puerto Princesa better than El Nido?

• It's not about which one is better; it's about what experiences you're looking for. Puerto Princesa is known for its UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Underground River, and city tours, offering a mix of natural wonders and urban conveniences. El Nido , on the other hand, is a paradise for island hopping, with breathtaking lagoons and beaches. If you love nature and seascapes, El Nido might be more appealing.

How many days do you need in Puerto Princesa?

• Spend at least two days in Puerto Princesa. This allows you to visit the Underground River and explore other attractions, such as Honda Bay or the city itself.

Can you do a day trip to El Nido from Puerto Princesa?

• While technically possible, a day trip to El Nido from Puerto Princesa is not advisable due to the long travel time (5-6 hours one way). It's better to stay overnight in El Nido to truly enjoy what it has to offer without rushing.

Here's a sample itinerary with a budget. You can change it accordingly. You can skip or add things to do or places to see. Note that the budget does not include airfare, accommodation, food, souvenirs, or shopping expenses.

I hope you found this article informative and engaging. It would also be helpful if you shared this link so that other people could read it. I appreciate you reading.

I earn a commission if you make a purchase on affiliate links in this article at no additional cost to you.

Lorraine Jose

Lorraine is a web developer, freelancer and virtual assistant. Motivated by her diverse experiences, she has built this website to impart her insights and adventures in internet technologies, business tools, web development, her travels, and beyond.

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Thank you for posting this! Very helpful :) We will be visiting El Nido soon.

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El Nido – Puerto Princesa: 6 Days DIY Barkada Itinerary and Travel Guide

Booked a barkada trip to Palawan? That’s great! Let me share with you our El Nido DIY Itinerary last December. Palawan is a beautiful place to go with friends for it has everything – beautiful islands, extreme activities, chill beaches, a gorgeous sunset, and wild nightlife. I’ve always wanted to go with friends than family to experience it all, but you know what? I found a hack on that! There’s this family that you called cousins .

We were 10 in the group. I took charge of the itinerary and everything. Again, this is not a budget backpacker travel itinerary. It will mostly cater to my co-travelers who are into comfortable travel at a reasonable price.

El Nido, Palawan

Palawan is a big archipelagic province shaped like a closed umbrella in the Western side of the Philippines. But on this itinerary, we will be focusing more on El Nido, which is almost 5 hours away from Puerto Princesa, the capital of the province. El Nido, along with Coron, is one of the famous tourist destinations of Palawan and not just to us, Filipinos, but especially to the foreigners as well.

Since flights to Puerto Princesa are the ones usually on sale (and regularly cheaper), we booked a flight to the capital and drove for 5 hours to El Nido town.

But for us, we got our roundtrip Puerto Princesa (PPS) – Clark airfare ticket for 3,000 PHP/person with Cebu Pacific. We got it three months before our travel dates and booked ten seats at this price, so I think it’s a reasonable price for us already. You can get an airfare ticket to PPS for as low as 1,000 PHP. You just need to be patient and lucky during seat sales. Most of my cousins are from Bulacan, so I agree to fly in Clark because Manila during December is a hellhole you’ll want to skip.

EXPENSES: 3,500 PHP

Airfare (no baggage): 3,000 PHP Trinoma – Clark P2P (RT): 500 PHP

El Nido DIY Itinerary (w/ budget)

10:00 am – flight to puerto princesa via clark.

Luckily, our flight was on time!!

11:30 AM – Arrival to Puerto Princesa Airport

Since we wanted to arrive in El Nido before sunset, we asked our driver to drop us by Jollibee and take out our lunch.

4:15 PM – Check-in in Amakan Bed and Breakfast

We booked three nights to Amakan Bed and Breakfast , which is beside the Northern Hope Tours Office. Amakan is a middle ranged gorgeous hostel in the center of El Nido town. We availed the dorm room, and each bed costs 900 PHP (1,050 PHP with taxes) per night.  The place and rooms are clean, do not look cheap and have fantastic service and ambiance, so it’s worth spending.

There’s another hostel at the same price range that is also worth checking out. I didn’t get the chance to book here since it’s already fully booked. Search for Spin Hostel .

06:30 PM – Sunset at Las Cabañas

7:30 PM – Dinner at Trattoria Altrove

It was a famous pizza place in El Nido, so we tried it first and foremost. There was a line when we got there, but we only waited for around 20 minutes. We ordered their famous brick oven pizza and some pasta. Their foods were delicious and had generous servings.

DAY 1 EXPENSES: 4,750 PHP

Clark Terminal Fee – 150 PHP Van transfer roundtrip – 900 PHP Jollibee lunch – 150 PHP Amakan (for 3 nights) – 3,150 PHP Tricycle to Las Cabañas (RT) – 100 PHP Dinner – 300 PHP

READ EL NIDO TOUR A: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW & MY EXPERIENCE WITH NORTHERN HOPE TOURS

07:00 am – island hopping tour a call time.

Please also note these new changes in El Nido’s island hopping rules.  We availed the El Nido Tour A, but we CAN’T GO to both big and small lagoon. We had to choose one due to this new rule. Northern Hopes suggested Small Lagoon for it was less crowded than Big Lagoon.

10:30 AM – Secret Lagoon

11:30 NN – Shimizu Island

1:00 PM – Small Lagoon

Small Lagoon was gorgeous!!! It was here that I realized how Palawan was different from other provinces. Northern Hopes was right when they told us that it was less crowded since people prefer the big Lagoon. Maybe someday, I’ll go back for that.

Our boats can’t enter inside, so we had to rent paddle boats. We availed the boat for three people for P500 and paddled our way to this paradise. Nakakapagod, if you’re not athletic enough like me.

3:00 PM – 7 Commando Beach

We ended our island hopping tour by chilling on 7 Commando Beach. The boys played basketball with the locals and other tourists while we, the girls, settled on the hammocks on the beach to rest and take photos.

5:00 PM – Back to El Nido town

We went back to the hotel to shower and rest for a bit.

7:00 PM – Dinner at Cafe Athena

DAY 2 EXPENSES: 1667 PHP

Island Hopping Tour A (w/ lunch) – 1200 PHP Small Lagoon paddleboat – 167 PHP Dinner – 300 PHP

READ EL NIDO BEACHES GUIDE: IT’S SO MANY, WHERE SHOULD I GO? WHAT SHOULD I SEE?

10:30 AM – Van Rental Pick-up for Beach Hopping

We decided to chill around El Nido to regain strength again for another island hopping the next day. We rented a van again with Northern Hope Tours for 2,000 PHP.

11:00 AM – Lio Beach

Ayala Corporation owns Lio Beach, and it was the first beach that we decided to visit. It was a sophisticated and very Instagrammable beach with lots of pretty food places as well.

1:00 PM – Nacpan Beach

04:00 PM – Duli Beach

Duli Beach was 10 minutes away from Nacpan Beach, and we checked it out because it was known as the surfing spot in El Nido. It was a deserted beach by the time we got there due to the big inconsistent waves.

07:00 PM – Dinner at Bar 147 by Spin

DAY 3 EXPENSES: 950 PHP

Van rental – (P2000/10) = 200 PHP Lunch at Nacpan – 200 PHP Dinner – 250 PHP Nightlife drinks – 300 PHP

8:00 AM – Start of Tour C

Our supposedly Tour C  got canceled due to the big waves brought by the Amihan winds, so I don’t have photos to show you. Tour C was said to be the best tour in El Nido, so I advised prioritizing this first on good days, especially during December – February. Don’t worry, Northern Hope refunded our payments, but I’ll still include it in the expenses for your reference.

We just roamed and chilled around El Nido town instead.

5:00 PM – Ride back to Puerto Princesa

Our tour was supposed to end at 5 PM and have our van ride back to Puerto Princesa after.

9:00 PM – Check-in in Blue Lagoon Inn & Suites

We were so tired to go out, so we just had McDelivery for dinner.

DAY 4 EXPENSES: 2,550 PHP

Island Hopping Tour C (w/ lunch) – 1400 PHP PPS Hotel (2 nights) – 1000 PHP Dinner – 150 PHP

READ DIY VS TOUR SERIES: PUERTO PRINCESA UNDERGROUND RIVER

06:00 AM – Pick-up in the hotel for Underground River tour

Again, we availed an underground river tour with Northern Hope Tours. It was only 1800 PHP inclusive of lunch and was a lot cheaper than the ones offered in our hotel and other tour agency on Facebook.

09:00 AM – Arrival at Underground River Dispatching Area

Again due to the big waves brought by Amihan waves, we almost got canceled AGAIN. The coast guards had canceled the tours from number 25 above. I recommend going here in summer (March-May) where the sea is calmer.

10:00 AM – Sabang Beach

The motorboat ride to Sabang Beach took 20 minutes, but the waves were so big, so if you’re prone to seasick, then this will be a hard 20 minutes for you. The beach was gorgeous and well-maintained. Hats off to the tourism office in charge because they have a well-implemented system and process in handling tourists and local boatmen.

From the beach, we walked along a forest to reach the mouth of the cave. We were given helmets, audio guides, and assigned us to our paddle boatman.

BEWARE OF THE MONKEYS. Do not feed them, please.

10:15 AM – Start of Underground Tour

The tour lasted for almost 45 minutes, and may you give your local boatman some tip.

12:00 NN – Buffet Lunch

Our tour was inclusive of lunch, which is near the dispatching area. It was a buffet lunch, and most of the tours are in partnership with this restaurant. The food is okay. There are more vegetables than meat. We also tried the famous “timalok” (raw woodworm) of Palawan.

3:00 PM – Back at the hotel

Since it’s still early, we decided to make most of our stay in Puerto Princesa. We hired a tricycle to bring us to the Crocodile farm and Baker Hill. He asked for 600 PHP for five people. We agreed, but another tricycle driver that we met that evening told us that it should be just 400 PHP for these two places.

04:00 PM – Puerto Princesa Crocodile Farm

The Crocodile farm was one of the famous city tour places in Puerto Princesa. We were curious how big the crocodile here can be, so we decided to visit. We paid 40 PHP entrance fee and waited for the next tour schedule. A tourism student guided us through the cages while sharing different facts. It was an interesting visit! I also got the chance to hold a baby crocodile!

5:00 PM – Baker’s Hills

Baker’s Hill was an Instagram heaven place that I never expected it to be. I thought it was just a famous bakery that sells delicious hopia in Puerto Princesa. It was a huge place with bakery, restaurants, stores, and lots of photogenic areas. We spent the afternoon taking photos and buying some pasalubongs.

06:30 PM – Puerto Princesa Boardwalk

07:30 PM – Dinner at Kinabuch Grill & Bar

Almost everyone I know online (and even a friend from Puerto Princesa) told us to eat at Kinabuch so we decided to eat here than in the boardwalk. IT WAS GOOD AND AFFORDABLE TOO.  We tried the crocodile sisig here and rented their billiard table for an hour. It was a nice place to end your trip.

DAY 5 EXPENSES: 2,445 PHP

Underground River Tour (w/ lunch) – 1800 PHP Sandwich breakfast + water – 50 PHP Tips – 20 PHP (200 PHP for the group) Tricycle rent – 120 PHP Crocodile Farm – 40 PHP Baker’s Hill pasalubong – 200 PHP Tricycle to Kinabuch from boardwalk – 15 PHP Kinabuch Dinner – 200 PHP

9:30 AM – Check-out

We checked out from our hotel and availed our free airport transfer. You can asked to drop by a pasalubong center  if you want.

10:00 AM – Puerto Princesa International Airport

11:15 AM – Flight back to Clark

Back to reality.

DAY 6 EXPENSES:  850 PHP

Breakfast in hotel – 150 PHP Pasalubongs – 500 PHP PPS Airport terminal fee – 200 PHP

TOTAL EXPENSES: 16,751 PHP

Airfare (+ P2P to Clark) – 3500 PHP Day 1 (El Nido Arrival + Hotel) – 4750 PHP Day 2 (El Nido Tour A) – 1667 PHP Day 3 (El Nido Beach Hopping) – 997 PHP Day 4 (El Nido Tour C)- 2550 PHP Day 5 (Underground River + PPS Tour) – 2445 PHP Day 6 (Going Home) – 850 PHP

El Nido is not a cheap place to travel to, maybe unless you compromise comfort. Commercialism is evident, and the prices seem based on foreign tourists, which are 80% of the tourists here. The tours and rentals, as well, are regulated by the LGU, so haggling is hard. Even El Nido restaurants have the same price ranges in Manila restaurants, but local eateries are a cheaper alternative, though. I was surprised that I spent more than my 15k budget for an El Nido DIY. But it was a good trip, so I’ll charge it to experience.

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2 comments . leave new.

Thanks for sharing your itinerary! I want to visit Palawan someday 🤗🙂 Btw the airport looks better than NAIA lol.

Ann | http://www.annchoi.me

Super akong nagenjoy basahin to. Grabi sobrang ganda po pala talaga sa El nido. Thankyou for sharing your Itinerary

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Hi I’m Bea. A corporate wandering soul who loves to travel comfortably at a reasonable price. Currently, a registered engineer and travel blogger based in Manila, PH. ♥

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El Nido, Philippines Complete Travel Guide and My Six Days Solo Travel Itinerary

Last Updated on February 10, 2022 by Tina

El Nido is a municipality in Palawan in the Philippines. It is famous for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, lagoons, and massive limestone cliffs. It has been consistently voted as one of the world’s best islands. I visited El Nido in 2018, and it’s still one of my favorite destinations. I almost canceled my trip there. Good thing my Turkish friend convinced me not to cancel the trip. He describes the place as heaven. Until now, my El Nido trip is still the best and most memorable solo trip I’ve had so far and I would love to go back there again when traveling is much easier. The town is very safe and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a destination for their first solo trip . Here’s an El Nido travel guide to help you plan your trip to this amazing place.

Located in the northernmost tip of mainland Palawan, El Nido is bordered by Linapacan on the north, the Sulu Sea on the east, Taytay in the south, and the West Philippine Sea on the west. This municipality has 64 islands and islets.

Table of Contents

What Are The Requirements For Tourists Visiting El Nido?

Because of the current situation, gone are the days when you could just book your flight and accommodation, pack your bags and go. Before you leave, you need to check the travel requirements in the city or town you are going to visit. El Nido reopened last July 7, 2021, and new and updated guidelines for tourists traveling to El Nido were released by the municipality.

Here are the requirements for tourists visiting El Nido (As of January 26, 2022):

For fully vaccinated tourists from outside palawan visiting el nido.

• Negative antigen test result accomplished within the last 48 hours prior to arrival in Palawan
• A valid government-issued ID
• Confirmed hotel booking/reservation in a Department of Tourism (DOT) accredited hotel covering all dates on flight itinerary
• Roundtrip airline ticket
• Proof of vaccination ( VaxCertPH or Vaccination Certificate)
• A copy of the approved S-Pass Travel Coordination Permit

For Tourists With Incomplete or No Vaccination From Outside Palawan Visiting El Nido

• Negative RT-PCR test result accomplished within the last 48 hours prior to arrival in Palawan

For Fully Vaccinated Palawan-based Tourists Visiting El Nido

• Confirmed hotel booking/reservation in a Department of Tourism (DOT) accredited hotel

For Palawan-based Tourists With Incomplete or No Vaccination Visiting El Nido

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Best Time to Visit El Nido

From October until the first or second week of June, the weather in El Nido is generally dry, hot, and sunny. On average, the temperatures are always high with May as the warmest month. January is the coldest month. A lot of rain falls from June to October, although even in rainy months there are dry days. It also does not rain all day long on a rainy day. August is the wettest month and March is the driest. With that said, the best time to visit El Nido is from December to April.

Related Post: Why El Nido in the Philippines is a Good Destination For Your First Solo Travel Trip

How To Get To El Nido

You have different options when going to El Nido. You can book a direct flight from Manila to El Nido or San Vicente, you can fly into Puerto Princesa and ride a van or bus to El Nido, or you can take a ferry if you are in Coron.

Option 1: Book a direct flight from Manila to El Nido. This saves you from all the travel time. Air Swift has daily flights to El Nido from Manila. You can make reservations through their website.

Option 2: Fly into Puerto Princesa, Palawan where most of the commercial flights land. From the airport, there are vans that offer direct service going to El Nido. Travel time is about 5-6 hours. Van trips are priced around Php 500. You can also ride a tricycle going to the bus station and ride a bus but the travel time takes up to 7-8 hours due to many stops for local passengers. The van is faster but it is not too comfortable especially if you get the seat at the back.

Option 3: Fly into San Vicente International Airport then ride a van to El Nido. Vans are available at the airport’s arrival area. The ride is around 4 hours and costs around Php 600.

Option 4: If coming from the Calamian group of islands (Coron, Culion, and Busuanga), you can take a ferry to El Nido. The trip takes around 8 hours. It is priced at approximately PhP 1800 per person.

Booking a direct flight from Manila to El Nido is the fastest and most comfortable option but it is the most expensive. As of the moment, due to the many restrictions brought about by the pandemic, the best option is to take a direct flight to Lio Airport in El Nido via Airswift.

Where to Go in the Philippines: Destinations That Are Now Open To Tourists

Mobile Signal and Internet Connection in El Nido

Mobile signal/mobile data is available in El Nido town proper. There are spots in other areas such as in Matinloc Island that have very weak or no signal at all, but who needs it when you are in paradise? Most hotels and hostels in El Nido have a free wifi connection.

Getting Around El Nido

There are several ways of getting around El Nido:

• Rent a motorbike- If you are traveling alone, have a driver’s license, and know how to drive a motorbike, renting one is the cheapest option.
• Charter a tricycle- If renting a motorbike is not an option for you, you can charter a tricycle to take you to Marimegmeg Beach or to other areas in El Nido.
• Rent a car- If you want a more comfortable means of getting around El Nido, you can arrange with your preferred travel agency a car to take you around.

Where to Stay in El Nido

El Nido has a range of options for accommodations depending on your budget. El Nido got you covered, from luxury hotels to backpacker’s hostels. Some of the accommodations you could try are the following:

Huni Lio Resort

Charlie’s El Nido

Frendz Hostel

The following are the accommodation establishments in El Nido that have been accredited by the DOT as of July 12, 2021:

Where To Eat

I’m not sure what restaurants are open now in El Nido and I haven’t really tried a lot when I was there because I had free breakfast at the hostel which was very good, and there’s free lunch during the island hopping tour. Here are three that I recommend:

Happiness Beach Bar

Happiness Beach Bar is a restaurant located along Serena St. and serves great Mediterranean food. They have hummus plates, pita falafels, salad options, and some more yummy selections for you to chose from. I love their swing!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tina dP @ I Went Anyways (@tnadeperalta)

Cafe Athena

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cafe Athena • El Nido (@cafe.athena)

Also located in Serena St., this restaurant serves really good Greek and Mediterranean dishes.

Jarace Grill

Jarace Grill is located along the beach and lined up outside the restaurant are the catch of the day, large squids, fresh pork belly, and pork skewers. You can choose whatever you fancy and they will cook it for you.

El Nido Tours

When I visited El Nido in 2018, the island hopping tours in Bacuit Bay were named as Tour A, B, C & D. These island hopping tours usually take you to 4 to 5 different spots. Months after that visit, the tours have been rebranded into the 7 Wonders of El Nido Tours. With the rebranding, you can’t visit both Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon in one day. They rebranded the tour to avoid crowding in the spots.

Related Post: El Nido Tour A: Lagoons and Beaches

With the current situation, they prioritized proper physical distancing, making sure crowding in the spots is eliminated. Get to see three different spots with breathtaking island views and amazing experiences in one day. Combination tours are not allowed.

They’ve set temporarily limited capacities and pre-booking of these tours is strongly advised. Only Department of Tourism (DOT) Accredited Local Travel Operators are allowed to conduct premium tours, so make sure you check that your travel operator is DOT accredited before you book a tour. Below are the accredited travel operators in El Nido:

What To Do In El Nido

Go island hopping in bacuit bay.

As I have mentioned earlier, El Nido has 64 islands and islets and one of the most popular activities in El Nido is island hopping. Bacuit Bay has magnificent views and rich biodiversity that you will surely love.

Visit Nacpan Beach

Located around 20 kilometers from the town proper, Nacpan Beach is a 4-kilometer stretch of golden sand and strong waves. It is one of the most famous mainland beaches in El Nido and has been named in different travel magazines as one of the world’s best beaches.

It is a good place to hang out if you just want to spend the day chilling and swimming.

Chill at Las Cabañas Beach and wait for the sunset.

Also called Marimegmeg Beach, it has white sand, clear water, palm trees, and a beautiful sunset. It is easily accessible as it is only 6 kilometers away from the town proper. Shops, bars, and restaurants could be found here and you can even go ziplining.

Do the El Nido Taraw Via Ferrata Canopy Walk

If you want to catch a bird’s eye view of the town and the bay from Taraw Cliff in a safe way, do the El Nido Taraw Via Ferrata Canopy Walk.

Surf at Duli Beach

Located 28 kilometers away from the town proper, Duli Beach is a remote area popular for surfing. Surfing here peaks from June to August and December to February. Restaurants and surf shops are available here and the area has rock views ideal for photoshoots.

My El Nido Solo Travel Itinerary

As with my previous solo trips, I went to El Nido unprepared. The only thing I prepared for was my accommodation. I only booked my van to El Nido when I was about to board the plane to Puerto Princesa. My flight arrived at Puerto Princesa before 12 noon and I was picked up by the van at the airport.

Day 1: Arrived in El Nido; dinner at Jarace Grill

The van to El Nido left Puerto Princesa around 1:00 in the afternoon. We arrived in El Nido before 6:00 PM. After checking in at Spin Designer Hostel, I went to Jarace Grill to have dinner. Since I didn’t research much about the place, I decided to just ask the receptionist at Spin where is a good place to have dinner and she recommended Jarace Grill. It is within walking distance from the hostel and is located along the beach. Lined up outside the restaurant are the catch of the day, large squids, fresh pork belly, and pork skewers that were on display for you to choose from. Because I love crabs, it is what I ordered and I asked them to cook it with gata (coconut milk).

Day 2: Island Hopping Tour A and waited for sunset at Maremegmeg Beach; dinner at Angel Wish Restaurant

On the second day, I decided to do the Island Hopping Tour A. What I love about El Nido is that even if you are traveling solo, you can still go on island hopping tours without having to pay for the whole boat because their tours are join-in tours. The tour had 5 stops: the Seven Commandos Beach, Small Lagoon, Payong-payong Beach, Big Lagoon, and Secret Lagoon. You can read about my island hopping tour A experience in this post .

After the island hopping tour, I went to Maremegmeg Beach for the sunset though it wasn’t that nice because it was drizzling that day. After that, I had dinner at Angel Wish Restaurant which is located along the beach.

Day 3: Island Hopping Tour C; barbecue night at Spin Hostel

For my third day, I went on an island hopping tour again. The tour had five stops: Helicopter Island, Hidden Beach, Secret Beach, Tapiutan Island, and Matinloc Shrine. I had the best time during this tour because it was a smaller group and most of us are ladies. One of them stays at the hostel I stayed at. She was really nice. We did things together during the trip so it didn’t feel like I’m traveling alone.

After the island hopping tour, I had dinner at the hostel because it was barbeque night.

Day 4: Explored Nacpan and Lio Beach; dinner at Cafe Athena

On my fourth day, I spent most of the day chilling at Nacpan Beach. I checked out what was on the other end of the beach and on my way there, I saw a sea snake. I thought it was dead because it wasn’t moving. Good thing I didn’t go too close because when I started walking, it moved. In case you don’t know, sea snakes are venomous.

It also rained while I was in Nacpan so I just read a book while waiting for it to stop. From Nacpan Beach, I asked my guide to take me to Lio Beach. It is a long white beach with shops and restaurants along the beach. For dinner, I went to Cafe Athena.

Day 5: El Nido Taraw Via Ferrata Canopy Walk and spent the rest of the day chilling at Maremegmeg Beach; dinner at Happiness BeachBar

On my fifth day, I was planning to just spend the day at Maremegmeg Beach. But when I hailed a tricycle, he suggested that I try out the El Nido Taraw Via Ferrata Canopy Walk. It seemed interesting so I went to check it out. The view of the town from there was very nice, and I had a really interesting conversation with the guide.

From the canopy walk, I went to Maremegmeg Beach and spent the whole day just chilling and swimming. Before dinner, I met up with a half-Aussie-half-South African guy who has been residing in El Nido for 6 years already. It was quite interesting talking to him because he used to work as a driller in an oil company. He worked in the same company as my college classmates.

After that, I went to Happiness Beach Bar to have dinner.  I ordered a frozen margarita for my last night in El Nido and I was also given a free shot of BBK. I don’t remember what it is anymore, but I remember that it was really good and that I had a great night.

Day 6: Travel back to Puerto Princesa

On the sixth day, I left El Nido early and traveled back to Puerto Princesa. I spent the night there before going back to Manila.

Some Useful Tips When Visiting El Nido

• Don’t forget to bring sunblock. You’ll be staying under the sun for very long periods of time so better protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
• Single-use plastic bottles are not allowed during island hopping tours so don’t bring one.
• Bring your own mask, snorkel, and other similar gears because rentals of these gears are temporarily banned.
• Wear your life jacket at all times during island hopping. Sharing is strictly prohibited.
• Observe minimum health standards always.
• Philippine peso is the currency used on the island. Make sure you exchange your money for the local currency in big cities before going there to avoid having the problem of looking for money changers.
• There are banks on the island where you can withdraw money but I suggest bringing enough cash before going just in case the machines are offline.
• The island is very safe even for solo female travelers but as in any place, don’t leave your things especially your valuables unattended.

It’s so nice to reminisce about the good old days. I wish I could go back to this paradise again someday. If you have other questions about El Nido, feel free to write them down below.

And if you haven’t subscribed to my blog yet, please do so you don’t miss any of my posts. And please follow my Facebook page @iwentanyways  and like my Instagram accounts  @iwentanyways  and  @tnadeperalta  for updates.

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3 thoughts on “El Nido, Philippines Complete Travel Guide and My Six Days Solo Travel Itinerary”

Will love to visit Philippines didn’t it was such a great place still I did see this blog

this is a great post po, thank you for all the insight!!

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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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Your Itinerary to Puerto Princesa & El Nido (plus DIY budget tips!)

Updated March 12, 2022.

Considering the fact that Palawan is the biggest province in the Philippines, 4 days isn’t just enough to travel the entire province itself. So when my friends asked me to go there even if I knew within myself that I had been there already, I didn’t have any second thoughts of going back. This is my second time visiting the best island in the world together with my friends. We opted to book a flight months before our flight in order to get a cheaper price. We decided to stay in Puerto Princesa and El Nido Palawan for four days and 3 nights which I knew wasn’t enough. But if you also plan to travel to Puerto Princesa and El Nido, this travel guide is for you!

Table of Contents

My 2nd time visiting Puerto Princesa and El Nido

It was afternoon when my best friends and I were talking with each other, planning where our next destination would be. So we asked each other to look for a cheaper flight without having any thought of a place where we could visit. All of a sudden, they contacted me and told me that they wanted to visit Palawan. It would be their first time visiting the island yet in my case it would be my second time. But I didn’t care. Who cares anyway? I didn’t hesitate to answer them with “YES”!! Why not? I haven’t seen much of Palawan yet. Why couldn’t I come back? Later on, I just found myself booking a flight together with my friends which was good for 4 days and 3 nights. I felt really excited!

After months of waiting, we were at the airport and anticipating my flight number to be called on. A few hours later, it was finally our boarding time and ready to depart to Puerto Princesa, Palawan. My heart raced quickly as if it was my first time visiting! I got on the plane, walked through the aisle of it, sat on my designated seat, and waited for an hour to arrive on the island of Palawan.  I was on cloud nine! Finally! I was here again. For the second time around. I was here to make good memories again on this majestic and the best island in the world.

What Are the Top Places to Visit in Puerto Princesa and El Nido?

Puerto princesa .

• Honda Bay: This is an island hopping where you can get a chance to visit three islets. The island hopping can be done either half day or the whole day. 
• City Tour: This includes a visit to the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Plaza Cuartel,Mitra’s Ranch, Baker’s Hill, Butterfly Garden, Binuatan Creations, City Baywalk Park, and Pasalubong Center. 
• Underground River, Puerto Princesa

El Nido is more of island hopping and visiting lagoons than anything. During our visit, we actually got a chance to visit some of the famous lagoons and islets around the island of El Nido. We got to visit Helicopter Island, Cadlao Lagoon, Hidden Beach, Small Lagoon, and Big Lagoon. 

Puerto Princesa & El Nido Package Tours

Many people have been asking me how it is easy for me to travel cheaply in Palawan. It has been one of the top destinations in the Philippines. In that case, thinking of traveling to this island is quite difficult without breaking a bank. But getting a package tour when in Palawan should also be considered. Sounds quite true. It’s quite expensive to travel around Palawan if you do not know how to do it cheaply.

Where to book?

I always consider getting a tour agency to make my trip less hassle and less worrying as well. Fortunately, I have found a good travel agency that catered and arranged our Palawan tours well. It’s really affordable and not only that, he guided us and made sure that we were doing fine and having fun at the same time. I came back to Palawan without expecting anything special but never had I any idea that it would be a memorable one indeed! I will surely book my Palawan tour again with this agency once I come back to Palawan again!

• Clarkent Affordable Tours : They are such a big help to us. They really helped us with our Palawan itinerary and made sure that we could make the most of our stay in Palawan in 4 days! You may contact them at 0955-294-6691 / 0977-250-3813 / 0946-398-7500 / 0918-624-3731.

Here are some of the other travel agencies that you may also consider:

• Isla Palawan Travel & Tours 
• Ceilo Tickets and Tours Palawan 
• Lexart Travel and Tours
• Palawan Travellers – Tour Package 
• Miya’s Travel And Tours
• Palawan Deal Packages 
• TripiditoTravel

Puerto Princesa and El Nido Itinerary 4D3N

Day 1: puerto princesa (free time).

• Staycation at Hillside Resort Palawan
• Go groceries at Robinson’s Supermarket
• Visit Immaculate Conception Church

Day 2: Honda Bay Tour

• Starfish Island
• Luli- Island
• Cowrie Island
• Depart to El Nido

Yes, you can also go island hopping in Puerto Princesa. If you are interested, you can avail the Honda Bay Palawan Tour Package!

Day 3: El Nido Tour

• Helicopter Island
• Cadlao Lagoon
• Hidden Beach
• Small Lagoon
• Depart to Puerto Princesa

DAY 4: Puerto Princesa City Tour 

• Immaculate Conception Cathedral
• Plaza Cuartel
• Mitra’s Ranch
• Baker’s Hill
• Butterfly Garden
• Binuatan Creations
• City Baywalk Park
• Pasalubong Center
• Back to Manila

Where to stay in Puerto Princesa? 

There are a lot of hotels and hostels that you can choose when staying in Puerto Princesa, but here are some of the following:

Hillside Resort 

Location: Sandiwa, Tiniguiban. This is where my friends and I actually stayed overnight. 

Room Rates: Starts from Php 1400 (USD 40) per night. 

Balai Princesa

Location: Socrates Rd, Barangay San Pedro 

Room Rates: Starts from Php 4000 (USD 80) per night

Southwind Resort Palawan

Location: South National Hwy, Puerto Princesa

Room Rates: Starts from Php 1500 (USD 30)

Panja Resort Palawan

Location: Bay Vista Rd, Bgy. Tagburos

Room Rates: Starts from Php 3300 (USD 66)

Cleon Villa Pension

Location: Pineda Rd, Barangay San Pedro

Room Rates: Starts from Php 1300 (USD 26) per night

Costa Palawan Resort

Location: F. Ponce de Leon Rd, Barangay San Pedro

Room Rates: Starts from Php 1500 (USD 30) per night

Holiday Suites

Location: North National Highway, 5300 Puerto Princesa. 

Room Rates: Starts from Php 2400 (USD 48). 

Hotel Fleuris 

Location: Lacao Street. 

Room Rates: Starts from Php 3500 (USD 70).

Blue Lagoon Inn & Suites

Location: Rizal Avenue Ext Interior Purok Malaya, Rizal Avenue 

Room Rates: Starts from Php 1200 (USD 24).

Where to stay in El Nido?

Focus rooms .

Location: Taytay – El Nido National Highway

Maligaya Beach Bungalows

Location: Corong Corong Beach, Palawan. If you are looking for beachfront accommodation, this one suits you! 

Room Rates: Starts from Php 8,100

Lagun Hotel

Location: Balinsasayaw Road, Bgy. Maligaya 

Room Rates: Starts from Php 6000

One El Nido Suite

Location: Lot 2 Bgy. Corong-Corong

Room Rates: Starts from PHP 3600

Frendz Hostel El Nido

Location: Osmena Street, Barangay Masagana

Room Rates: Starts from PHP 4400 

El Nido Moringa Resort

Location: Barangay Corong-Corong 

Room Rates: Starts from PHP  3,300

SANSE Boutique Hotel

Location: Abdulla Street 

Room Rates: Starts from PHP 2,800

Bulskamp Inn

Location: Osmeña Street

Room Rates: Starts from PHP 2700

El Nido Boutique Vacation Villas

Location: Sitio Lugadia Corong-Corong

Room Rates: Starts from PHP 1100

Country Inn El Nido

Location: Barangay Corong Corong

Dolarog Beach Resort

Location: Sitio Dolarog, Corong-Corong

Room Rates: Starts from PHP 4700  Note that the prices written above are subject to change. You may book your accommodation in Agoda if you want to get discounts!

Top Reasons to Visit the Beautiful Islands of Palawan, Philippines

People are so nice..

Everywhere you go, people will greet you nicely. Most of the people you meet here in Palawan – whether it is in Puerto Princesa or El Nido, are friendly. You would surely enjoy talking with the locals. staying on this island for a few days or weeks isn’t enough! More to that, Puerto Princesa and El Nido are not the only places that you can visit here, of course!

There is always something about this island that makes you wonder.

It always feels like the first time. As I mentioned above, I’ve been to Puerto Princesa and El Nido twice, but I’ve still had the same feeling as the first time I visited these places. 

‎You will learn a lot of things about the island.

Palawan is rich in culture, so once you visit here, you will be amazed at how they are rich in natural resources and every little thing that will make you certainly realize that Palawan is indeed the best island in the world.

Less traffic.

Palawan’s traffic is totally incomparable to Manila’s traffic. F rom what I have learned, the reason why there is less traffic there (most especially in Puerto Princesa) is that there are designated vehicles that can only operate according to the day that has been assigned to a certain vehicle. It is really organized.

‎Palawan has the lowest crime rate in the country.

Yes, you heard it right! ‎It is said to be that Palawan has the lowest crime rate in the country.

Get close to nature.

‎Surrounded by trees, Palawan is an island where you can really get closer to nature.

That “feeling” being on this beautiful island.

I just love being comfortable on this island. This indescribable feeling that I get every time I visit.

You get to appreciate nature more.

This island has taught me how I should appreciate nature more! It’s not just being able to see the beauty of it; in return, it is about being able to be more responsible and caring for taking care of it. Our nature shouldn’t just be taken for granted.

The amazing Philippines! Isn’t it more fun?

With its pristine beaches , beautiful lagoons, delectable food, accommodating people, and amazing scenery and landscapes, who would have thought that I am just in the Philippines?

Changes made in El Nido, Palawan

Note that this itinerary was made for our tour in 2018 and unfortunately, there are new rules and regulations for the island hopping tours and activities in El Nido.

New Rules & Regulations in El Nido

They have implemented that you can’t do combination tours anymore in order to limit the number of tourists going to each of the islands from Tours A, B, C, D more particularly in Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, and Secret Beach. You can’t visit these most popular islands on the same day.

If you plan to visit El Nido for a day , then that means you can only choose one tour either A, B, C, or D according to your preference. In addition to that, pre-registration is now required before you get to visit the Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, or Secret which they call the “Premium Spot”. You have to pay Php 200 for each spot as well. More to that , boats are prohibited to enter the lagoon thus renting a kayak is mandatory in order to enter the lagoon. Check out the sample itinerary below for your future Palawan trip.

El Nido Island Tours

• Big or small lagoon (user fee 200 per pax)
• Simizu island
• 7commando beachSecret lagoon
• Payong Payong island
• Cudugnon cave (entrance fee 100 per pax)
• Snake island
• Entalula island
• Cathedral cave
• Pinagbuyatan island
• Matinloc shrine (100 per pax entrance fee)
• Helicopter island
• Hidden beach
• Secret beach
• Tapiutan island
• Small lagoon (user fee 200 per pax)
• Nat nay beach
• Pasandigan beach
• Paradise beach

FAQs about Puerto Princesa & El Nido 

Does it cost a lot to visit palawan .

Actually, it depends on how much budget you have, how many days you are staying on the island, where you are staying, and eating. It really depends. It may either be costly or affordable. As I have said, there are so many travel agencies that offer cheap package tours. 

Where to find an affordable package tour?  

You can easily find some on Google. I listed some legit and highly recommended travel agencies in Palawan that you can check out. But if you have other preferences, make sure that the travel agency that you find is DOT accredited. 

Best time to visit Palawan?

The best thing about Palawan is they rarely experience typhoons so they have year-all-round tropical weather. 

Can I travel solo to Palawan?

Definitely yes. I have seen a lot of people who have done this before. But of course, it is going to be more costly on your end. 

Is it worth visiting the island?

Why not? Palawan is indeed one of the best islands not just in the Philippines, but also all over the world. 

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A travel blogger in the Philippines and a K-pop enthusiast, Ara Patria (The Adventuress) pursues her passion and love for traveling. She’s been blogging for years, where she writes about her own travel experiences and promotes the wonders of the Philippines. Not only does she promote the beauty of her country, but she also focuses on promoting sustainable tourism. She dreams of traveling the world and inspiring other people through her own written works and captured moments with her camera.

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6 thoughts on “ Your Itinerary to Puerto Princesa & El Nido (plus DIY budget tips!) ”

I am so happy I stumbled upon this post! I’ve been dying to visit the Philipinnes! I was supposed to go last year but I only had one week off and at that time Boracay was closed (so we decided to wait)! I am starting to really look into it for November maybe! I love the details in this article and your pictures are beautiful!! Thank you for sharing 🙂

Please visit Palawan soon!

This is such a cool concept! And that place looks so gorgeous!

Thank you so much. Hope you can visit one day.

ohhhhhhhhh I soooooooooo need a beach in my life right now.

Let’s go to the beach beach beach

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The Perfect 4 Day El Nido Itinerary

El Nido is seriously the best. Due to its recent Instagram hype I was a little hesitant on if it was as good as the photos or if they were heavily edited, but it blew me away. The water color, coral reefs, and limestone mountains are stunning. Add to the mix super friendly people and a trendy downtown and you’ve got one of our new favorite destinations.

We sadly only had 4 days in El Nido before continuing on to Coron , but I could have stayed for weeks. Here’s how to make the most out of 4 days in fabulous El Nido.

El Nido Itinerary Day 1

Arrive and head to las cabanas beach.

Try to get an early flight so you can have almost a full first day on El Nido. While you can fly to Puerto Princesa and take a van, we decided to spend a little more for the direct flight to El Nido. We flew Airswift and it was such a great airline experience. They even greeted us with umbrellas on the tarmac so we would have shade while walking to baggage claim! Once we checked into our hotel, Entalula Cottages (simple/rustic rooms but AMAZING views, location, and staff), we decided to hit the beach. Luckily Las Cabanas Beach is a short trike (El Nido’s version of a tuk tuk) ride away.

We were expecting a normal beach experience but Las Cabanas is awesome! The water is so warm and crystal clear and there are adorable little beach clubs lining the sand. Lay on a lounger for free at most spots. All you have to do is buy food or drink. We recommend margaritas and ceviche!

Get a Massage

After relaxing on the beach all day, get a massage! Massages are one of the best parts of Southeast Asia. They are so cheap compared to the US and the quality is awesome! We randomly chose Athalias and loved it so much we came back again two days later. My sister, Becca, joined us for this trip and all three of us swear it is the best massage we’ve had in our entire lives. Plus the ladies that run the shop are so sweet and their little kids are precious! A one-hour massage will cost you around $10 USD.

Eat at the Local Seafood Stalls

Relax at your hotel for a bit and then head to dinner. While El Nido has so many cute restaurants in town we decided to go local on night one and dine at the seafood stalls near the basketball court. This reminded me so much of Los Kioskos in Galapagos . The seafood is definitely fresh and crazy cheap. We spent $7 for 3 people. If you’re squirmy on street food you may want to pass but we enjoyed it!

Sip and Shop

Afterwards, grab a cocktail or local beer, San Miguel, at one of El Nido’s rooftop bars. Be sure to stop by a few boutiqes too for an inexpensive tank top or straw purse souvenir!

El Nido Itinerary Day 2

Ride a motorbike to nac pan beach.

Beach day again! This time rent a motorbike and head to Nac Pan Beach. The journey is a little far at 45 minutes and I don’t recommend it if you are a first time scooter rider. We saw a few crashes and tourists with injuries. (Including one of our own!) The roads at Nac Pan are dirt and difficult to steer on. But don’t let that stop you from going. You can always take a trike or we recommend hiring a guide to drive you on the motorbike so you get the full experience.

Okay, so we thought Las Cabanas beach was gorgeous. Wait until Nac Pan. It is jaw dropping. The huge white sand beach leads to beautiful water and unlike the other beaches there are legit waves! We body surfed and it was so much fun! The beach is lined with beach clubs here too. The chairs have a rental price but we got drinks at a bar and sat on the swing seats. We also stopped by the Mad Monkey since it is the same hostel chain our friend works at in Cambodia . Be sure to eat a seafood lunch with your toes in the sand at one of the little local restaurants.

Good to know: You typically have to pay an entrance fee to Nac Pan but it was free the day we visited plus they were handing out drink coupons!

Dinner and Drinks at Sava

After a full beach day, scoot back to town and freshen up for dinner and drinks at Sava. This restaurant is so trendy and the food was great. It appears to turn up a bit at night with a DJ, but we called it early since we had a full tour day the following morning.

El Nido Itinerary Day 3

Island hopping tour c.

If you’ve done any research on El Nido you know that island hopping is the thing to do and that everyone recommends tour A and C. Well we do too! Although after talking with a local travel agent I’m sure the other tours are equally awesome and even better in the fact that they are less crowded! We booked our tours through our hotel but they all appear to be more or less the same.

You are on a shared boat with some other people and you visit different islands for snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing. It also includes an awesome primarily seafood lunch with fresh fruit. (The best mango I’ve ever had!) They go to the same stops but in different order to avoid crowds, but it definitely still gets crowded sometimes.

Insider Tip: Bring some extra cash for beer and coconuts from the boat man and to rent a kayak on some tours. Secret beach and Helicopter Island were our favorite stops on Tour C!

Tour C Stops:

• Secret beach
• Hidden beach
• Lunch beach
• Helicopter Island

Sunset Happy Hour at Republica

After your tour head to Republica for a great sunset happy hour. This was one of the best sunsets I’ve ever seen. The entire sky turned orange and we could see for miles. Get there early to get a good spot for photos! They have good sangria but skip the tapas. You can take a cheap tricycle to Republica so you don’t have to worry about driving.

Dinner and Drinks in Town

After sunset, grab a trike back to town for delicious falafel. Holy Smoke is a street stand but don’t let the simplicity fool you. They have delicious falafel. And in the Philippines, who knew?! Wash it down with a cocktail at The Pangolin and people watch from the second floor.

Island Hopping Tour A

Time for more island hopping! We saved the best for last because Tour A is definitely the all-star of the tours. It used to include both big lagoon and small lagoon, the highlights of El Nido. But they recently changed it so you have to choose one or the other. I wanted big lagoon but it was sold out so we did small lagoon instead. I thought I was going to be disappointed but no way! Small lagoon is awesome and was one of my favorite stops! I’ve heard big lagoon is even better. Try it and let us know. We also loved snorkeling the reef. It is so alive and you can see all kinds of creatures working in symbiosis.

Tour A Stops:

• Small lagoon
• Hidden lagoon
• Papaya beach

Get Another Massage

Yep, time for another massage! This time opt for the aloe vera treatment since you may be sunburnt. It’s $4 extra but so worth it!

After your massage head to Athena Café or Happy Hostel for drinks and appetizers. Both spots are super cute and trendy. End the night with dinner at Art Café or Trattoria Alcove. The latter always has a line but their pizza is great. We ate at their Coron location.

What to Bring to El Nido

You’ll read everywhere that you need a drybag and watershoes in El Nido. We skipped on the watershoes but we did bring our dry bag from home. It was the first time we packed it on our long-term travels and it was a game-changer. It definitely came in handy but you could probably get by without one too. Don’t stress about buying watershoes and drybags beforehand. They literally sell them on every corner in El Nido. But if you want to purchase before you pack, check out these stylish water shoes and backpack style dry bag.

Is El Nido too Touristy?

We had some concerns, but honestly to be so crowded the underwater world looks untouched. Some spots on Tour A were pretty packed and while the orange life vests and non-swimmers being dragged by guides in a chain are unappealing, the natural beauty is unparalleled and absolutely worth the tour. For a less crowded experience, consider taking a private boat. We didn’t know this was an option at the time we booked our tours, but we did do this in Coron and loved it. The price difference isn’t much, especially if you have a group.

This 4 day El Nido itinerary is packed full of fun but as always we recommend taking it slow and enjoying this paradise a little longer. Island hoppng in El Nido is an incredible experience and a must-do on your Southeast Asia travels.

All the Feels for El Nido,

Note: We visited El Nido in March 2019.

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22 El Nido Tourist Spots You Should Know About

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by  Manoling Martinez

June 8, 2023

Note: This post may include affiliate links. Read more about this here .  

El Nido is said to be the most beautiful place in the Philippines. 

And honestly?

It’s HARD to disagree! 

From the otherworldly limestone cliffs to the fine white sand, El Nido is a complete feast for the eyes. 

But what exactly can you do here? 

And what exactly is there to see?

Today we’re going over the 22 best El Nido tourist spots, so you won’t miss out. 

Let’s dive into it!

Visiting El Nido soon? Read my El Nido Travel Guide for tips, tricks, and everything you need to know before going!

Understanding El Nido’s Tourist Spots

Before I start listing down the spots, it’s important to understand how El Nido works first. 

Most of El Nido’s tourist spots are only accessible by joining boat tours. 

There are four standard tours: 

These all visit different islands and spots around El Nido Bay, which I’ll get to below. 

But if you want to pick and choose which spots you want to visit, you’ll need to hire a private boat. 

That said, there are a few spots that you can access without a tour boat. 

I’ll start this list by listing the ones you can get to without a boat tour, then go over each of the four tour options! 

The 22 Best Tourist Spots in El Nido

Here are the 22 best spots in El Nido! 

• Nacpan Beach
• Taraw Cliff Hike! 
• Nagkalit-kalit Falls
• Scuba Diving

Tour A: 

• Shimizu Island
• Secret Lagoon
• Seven Commandos Beach

Tour B: 

• Snake Island
• Pinagbuyutan Island
• Entalula Beach
• Cudugnon Cave
• Cathedral Cave

Tour C: 

• Helicopter Island
• Matinloc Shrine
• Secret Beach
• Talisay Beach
• Hidden Beach

Tour D: 

• Small Lagoon
• Cadlao Lagoon
• Natnat Beach
• Pasandigan Cove

Let’s have a closer look at each one! 

DIY El Nido Tourist Spots

El Nido is mostly known for its boat tours.

But exploring the mainland was one of my favorite things to do while here!

There are some tour operators who offer land tours.

But to be honest, the best way to explore these is to do it DIY.

You can rent a motorbike in El Nido for php500-700 a day. Or, you can haggle with a tricycle to take you around!

DIY El Nido Tourist Spots #1: Nacpan Beach

The Philippines is world-renowned for its beaches. 

And one of the VERY best ones is found just 30-45 minutes away from El Nido town. 

This four-kilometer-long beach has some of the finest white sand your feet will touch and the most crystal clear waters ever. 

On the south end of Nacpan, where you enter, you’ll find several restaurants, resorts, and bars. 

You can swim here, but remember! 

Nacpan is facing the open sea, so the wind and the waves can be pretty strong around here. 

If you want some alone time, you can walk north. The establishments will thin out slowly until you’re all alone with the sand, the sea, and the sun. 

Nacpan is facing west, making it a wonderful place to watch some surreal sunsets. 

And if you’re up for some activity, you can also rent an ATV for php1,000 and ride the entire length of the beach and beyond! 

All in all, Nacpan is easily one of the best beaches in the Philippines. 

It’s a definite must-visit if you’re in El Nido! 

How to Get to Nacpan Beach: 

• The best way to get to Nacpan is to rent a motorbike in El Nido town for around php500-700 a day. This way, you can also explore other spots and lesser-known beaches. 
• You can also opt for a shuttle service from El Nido. Ask your accommodation for help, or check out this website . This costs php400 per head for one way, or php700 for both ways. 
• You can also haggle with a tricycle to bring you there. Expect to pay around php1,500 for the trip though! 

DIY El Nido Tourist Spots #2: Taraw Cliff Canopy Walk

Fees: php400 entrance and guide (additional php300 for spider webs) (There’s a small discount if you book online , php630)

Opening Hours: 8 am – 5 pm

Overlooking El Nido is the mighty Taraw Cliff – a jagged limestone rock shooting 250 meters toward the sky. 

Somewhere between the ground and the peak, a manmade walkway hugs the cliffs, allowing visitors to get a bird’s eye view of the town. 

The view from up here is quite nice. 

You see the town below, the busy dock with tour boats leaving, and even some of the majestic islands off on the horizon. 

Beside the lookout are the spider webs. 

These are cool for pictures, but you’ll have to pay an additional php300 to get to them (which is quite overpriced in my opinion.)

DIY El Nido Tourist Spots #2.5: Taraw Cliff Hike! 

Fees: Haggle, roughly php500/head

Important Note: Hiking Taraw Cliff is technically prohibited after someone fell off the cliff. However, there are still plenty of people who do this hike! 

If you’re looking for thrills, you can opt to CLIMB Taraw Cliff rather than just walking the canopy walk. 

This is technically prohibited, but everyone knows that people still climb it anyway. 

To do this, you WILL need a guide since the climb is steep, jagged, and dangerous. 

The easiest way to find a guide is to walk into the canopy walk office and ask around there. 

Yes, this is backdoor stuff, but all the locals know that visitors want to climb the real deal, not just the overpriced Canopy Walk. 

Your guide will tell you to meet up at 4 am so you can catch the sunrise from the top. 

Sadly, I wasn’t able to make the hike since I was feeling under the weather, but I’m told the view is much higher and grander than that of the Canopy Walk! 

DIY El Nido Tourist Spots #3: Nagkalit-kalit Falls

Fees: Mandatory guide php500

Most people don’t think about waterfalls when they come to El Nido. 

But tucked away in the forests is a small waterfall that’s well worth a visit! 

It’s not the most spectacular. 

But it does offer something different from the rest of El Nido. 

For Nagkalit-kalit, the treasure is the journey. 

To get there, you’ll have to walk for about 30 minutes through forests, streams, and cashew trees. 

I highly recommend taking it in, instead of rushing towards the destination. 

Once you’re already sweaty, you’ll get to the cool, refreshing falls! 

In a place as crowded as El Nido, finding this little falls away from everyone else is quite nice. 

How to Get to Nagkalit-kalit Falls: 

• The best way to get to Nagkalit-kalit is to rent a motorbike in El Nido town for around php500-700 a day. This way, you can also explore other spots and lesser-known beaches. 
• You can also haggle with a tricycle to bring you there. Expect to pay around php1,500 for the trip though! (You can hire the tricycle to bring you here and to Nacpan Beach as well)

DIY El Nido Tourist Spots #4: Scuba Diving

Fees: Around php4,800 (3 dives) , or php5,400 (discovery diving for beginners)

Whether you’re an experienced diver or have never tried it before…

El Nido is one of the best spots in the Philippines for scuba diving! 

El Nido Bay and Bacuit Bay are full of colorful reefs sprawling with marine life. 

For advanced divers, there are also underwater caves here waiting for you to explore. 

There are dozens of dive shops around El Nido, but most offer a similar package: 

Php4,800 for 3 boat dives, complete with gear, lunch, guides, and sometimes even pictures! 

For beginners, this is one of the best places to try scuba diving – or even get your certification. 

In discovery scuba diving, you’ll have an instructor with you all the way, teaching you safety skills, or even just carrying you around so you get to enjoy the underwater world! 

The dive sites I explored when I was there included 

• Natnat – a reef on Cadlao island, packed with different species of fish and sometimes HUGE turtles
• South Miniloc – a more challenging dive due to currents. South Miniloc is also a highway for boats, so you’ll have to stay well below the surface! There are also tons of different fish and corals around here
• Helicopter Island – sandy dive site with a resident turtle! You can feed the turtle some grass here

El Nido Tour A

Price: php1,400 (+php200 environmental fee) (php950 if you book using this discount link )

Spots: 

El Nido Tour A is by far the most popular boat tour here. 

As a result, expect a LOT of people if you go on this tour. 

But despite the crowd, El Nido Tour A is probably still the best tour to go on.

Because the spots are absolutely stunning! 

Spots such as…

El Nido Tour A Tourist Spots – Big Lagoon

Big Lagoon is probably the most recognizable spot in El Nido. 

The massive limestone cliffs…

The enchanting blue-green water…

This spot is truly one of the most beautiful spots not just in the Philippines – but in the world! 

Your tour boat will park right outside the lagoon. 

From there, you can either swim in or kayak in! 

Kayak rentals cost php300, but it’s well worth it to get one. 

Inside, you’ll find that the lagoon is true to its name:

It is BIG. 

You can spend a whole hour just kayaking and swimming around here, and you won’t get bored! 

El Nido Tour A Tourist Spots – Shimizu Island

Shimizu Island is Tour A’s main snorkeling spot. 

Here you’ll find a lot of colorful corals, plenty of fish, and even some sea turtles! 

Note: most tours don’t bring snorkels on board, so make sure you rent before you take off! Rentals cost around php150. 

Aside from snorkeling, this is also the usual lunch stop for Tour A. 

There’s a small hidden beach on the island, which is just big enough to have lunch on! 

El Nido Tour A Tourist Spots – Secret Lagoon

Miniloc Island is famous for Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon. 

But hidden on the other side of the island is the secret lagoon! 

As the name suggests, you can’t see this lagoon from outside. 

All you’ll see are the towering limestone walls of Miniloc. 

But if you look closely, you’ll see a small crack in the stone. 

And if you fit yourself through it?

You’ll find yourself in the Secret Lagoon! 

Secret Lagoon is a small lagoon that’s surrounded on ALL sides by massive black cliffs. 

Since it’s small and super popular, the lagoon tends to get VERY crowded. 

So crowded, that you’ll have to form a line going in and out of the lagoon itself. 

El Nido Tour A Tourist Spots – Seven Commandos Beach

Most of El Nido’s tours will include the limestone walls, a snorkeling area, and a really beautiful white sand beach. 

For Tour A, the beach is the Seven Commandos Beach. 

The beach here is quite stunning, with white sand, pristine waters, and lush coconut trees swaying in the wind. 

You can snorkel around here, but Seven Commandos is better for chilling! 

There are plenty of places you can have a seat. 

And they even have a small store selling coffee too. 

If you’re up for some fun, there’s a volleyball net, where there’s usually a bunch of strangers playing together! 

El Nido Tour B

Price: php1,300 (+php200 environmental fee) (php1,100 if you book using this discount link )

Tour B is one of the lesser-known tours. 

It doesn’t stop over the famous Miniloc Island. 

Instead, it takes you to some less crowded beaches, and lets you explore some caves! 

El Nido Tour B Tourist Spots – Snake Island

Don’t worry!

There aren’t any snakes around here. 

Instead, this island gets its name from the sandbar that snakes its way through the water. 

The sandbar is so long, it connects Snake Island back to mainland El Nido. 

The sandbar is only visible during low tide, which is something your tour operators will try to schedule around! 

El Nido Tour B Tourist Spots – Pinagbuyutan Island

Pinagbuyutan is one of the most picturesque islands when viewed from afar. 

It has those massive limestone cliffs, although they aren’t quite as dramatic as the ones in Miniloc. 

Whatever the case, this island has a wonderful beach for you to chill around on. 

Tour B tours usually have lunch here as well. 

El Nido Tour B Tourist Spots – Entalula Beach

Another beach stopover for Tour B is Entalula Beach. 

Complete with white sand, swaying palm trees, and the beautiful sea, this is a great spot to chill, swim, or snorkel around! 

El Nido Tour B Tourist Spots – Cudugnon Cave

Aside from being less crowded, one of the main attractions of Tour B is the caves. 

Cudugnon Cave is best visited during low tide. 

During high tide, water makes its way into the cave, and you won’t be able to explore it as much. 

The high ceiling and plentiful rock formations make this an exciting place to visit! 

Aside from the cave, Cudugnon Island also has the usual beautiful beach and snorkeling areas. 

El Nido Tour B Tourist Spots – Cathedral Cave

Another cave stopover for Tour B is Cathedral Cave. 

This is just a short stopover for some pictures – and maybe swimming if you’re brave enough? 

There is no beach around here, just a jagged cave mouth opening out to the sea. 

The entrance is too narrow for your tour boat to enter. 

El Nido Tour C

Price: php1,400 (+php200 environmental fee) (php1,200 if you book using this discount link )

Tour C is the second most popular tour after Tour A. 

While Tour A focuses more on the lagoons and the amazing cliffs, Tour C has more beautiful beaches than any other tour. 

But of course, there is plenty of diversity in these spots as well! 

El Nido Tour C Tourist Spots – Helicopter Island

The name comes from the shape of the island (not that there are helicopters on it!). 

Helicopter Island has a wonderful beach. 

There are several coconut vendors around here, so you can enjoy the full tropical life – chilling on the beach with a coconut in your hand. 

If you’re up for snorkeling, there are some corals around here – although they’re quite far from shore. 

They even have a resident turtle that lives around here! 

El Nido Tour C Tourist Spots – Matinloc Shrine

Tours often spend very little time here.

And some skip it completely. 

There are a few abandoned buildings on this spot. 

One of these it’s a small shrine – hence the name. 

Aside from that, you can also snorkel around here! 

El Nido Tour C Tourist Spots – Secret Beach

On the same island as the shrine (Matinloc), there’s a “secret” beach that you’ll have to swim to! 

The beach is hidden behind the tall limestone walls and is only accessible through a small crack. 

Your tour boat won’t be able to dock inside, so you’ll have to get down and swim to it! 

El Nido Tour C Tourist Spots – Hidden Beach

Aside from the Secret Beach, there’s also a Hidden Beach! 

Now, you don’t have to swim through a crack on the wall here. But the beach is still quite hidden. 

The towering limestone cliffs of Mantinloc almost surround it completely! 

Truly a breathtaking place. 

El Nido Tour C Tourist Spots – Talisay Beach

The main area for having lunch in Tour C is Tapuitan Island, usually on Talisay Beach. 

And the crazy thing about these lunch areas is…

They’re already AMAZING in and of themselves! 

Seriously. 

There’s no such thing as “just a lunch island” in El Nido. 

El Nido Tour D

Price: php1,400 (+php200 environmental fee)

Last but not least…

Tour D! 

Tour D centers around Cadlao Island, which is just off the coast of El Nido!

It isn’t as popular as Tour A and C. 

But recently, more people are choosing this option since Small Lagoon was added. 

Overall, Tour D feels a lot like Tour A – with the highlight being the enchanting lagoons and towering cliffs. 

But it also has powdery white beaches and snorkeling spots as well! 

El Nido Tour D Tourist Spots – Small Lagoon

Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon are right next to each other! 

So you get the same amazing views that you get from Big Lagoon.

Only this one is…

Smaller. 

The main activity in Small Lagoon is kayaking. 

You can rent one from your tour boat for php300 . 

Small Lagoon used to be a part of Tour A. 

But to limit the crowd, Small Lagoon was later moved to Tour D – so you can enjoy the same views with fewer people! 

El Nido Tour D Tourist Spots – Cadlao Lagoon

If you’re standing on El Nido beach and you look out into the horizon, you’ll see an island. 

That island is Cadlao Island! 

You can kayak here from El Nido Beach to visit this lagoon. 

That’s a bit out of topic. 

Aside from Small Lagoon, Cadlao Lagoon is the other main attraction of Tour D. 

Some say it’s not as grand as Big Lagoon, but you also get the benefit of fewer crowds! 

El Nido Tour D Tourist Spots – Natnat Beach

Aside from the lagoon, Cadlao Island also has a very pretty beach. 

This is where Tour D usually has their lunch break. 

I might sound like a broken record, but what else is there to say?

Fine white sand.

Crystal clear water. 

Good snorkeling spots. 

What’s there not to love about Natnat Beach? 

El Nido Tour D Tourist Spots – Pasandigan Cove

Last but not least is Pasandigan Cove! 

Found on the other side of Cadlao, this stretch of white sand beaches and snorkeling spots is another great place to explore. 

And there you have it!

Those are the 22 most popular El Nido tourist spots! 

I have to say, unless you’re staying here for a long time, it’s going to be VERY hard to visit all of these. 

Instead, take it slow! 

I recommend visiting the DIY spots on one day, taking a tour on the next, and then maybe trying scuba diving on the third. 

But it all depends on how much time you have. 

I hope this list helps you plan your trip! 

For more planning tips, check out my El Nido Travel Guide!

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Manoling Martinez

Hi! I'm Manoling, a 24-year-old backpacker from Cebu City. I'm on a mission to visit ALL 82 provinces of the Philippines. You can follow my adventures on my Instagram, or plan your trips here on my website!

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The perfect El Nido itinerary for 3 days

• June 18, 2018
• 115 Comments

El Nido is the most popular district in the island of Palawan in The Philippines. With its pristine white sandy beaches, remote and untouched islands, clear water lagoons, limestone cliffs jutting out into the sea, hidden caves and rich corals, El Nido is a tropical paradise which is every nature-lovers dream come true. If you're planning a visit to El Nido, I suggest keeping at least 3 days (if not more) in hand to explore the best this place has to offer. Here are my suggestions for the perfect El Nido itinerary for 3 days.

El Nido Itinerary

Getting to El Nido

From Manila, Boracay & Cebu

Air Swift  has several flights during the day from Manila as well as Boracay (Caticlan Airport) and Cebu.  Several resorts have a tie-up with Air Swift and provide a van pick-up for their guests while others have a fleet of tricycles lined up outside to take them to their hotels.

From Puerto Princessa

Unfortunately, there are no flights from Puerto Princessa so the road is the best way to traverse between the two provinces. Several companies run mini-buses & vans through the day, starting from as early as 6.00 am from Puerto Princessa to El Nido, and the journey takes about 6-7 hours. Alternatively, you might want to rent a car and drive yourself (although this is not recommended as driving in The Philippines isn't as much a pleasure as you'd want it to be).

There is a fast ferry ( Montenegro Lines ) that departs from Coron at 12 pm every day and takes about 3.5 - 4 hours for the journey. Apart from this, there are several slower ferries that take about 7-8 hours and can be booked when you're on the island.

In El Nido, you can consider renting a motorbike to travel around or use the most common mode of transportation- the tricycles, which are quite inexpensive.

Where to stay in El Nido

Water villas of Miniloc Island ( El Nido Resorts )

An experience that I'd always imagined was exclusive only to the Maldives and some other very expensive destinations, El Nido Resorts located on Miniloc Island give you the option to stay in a water villa! Built on stilts right over the crystal clear green waters of this remote island, which is about 20-minutes away from the mainland, this is a luxurious and romantic experience, recommended for those looking to spend some quiet time amidst extreme beauty and tranquillity.

El Nido Resorts Water Cottages - Image from booking.com

Las Cabanas Beach Resort

A more reasonably priced option which is also on the mainland in El Nido, with one of the best beaches in the area offering spectacular sunsets is Las Cabanas Beach Resort. Located only 3 kms away from the town, Las Cabanas Beach Resort is on a beach that has several other bars and restaurants, allowing for enough options outside the resort if you wish to explore. The resort itself is quite small, offering only 9 rooms, with a huge botanical garden, beach cottages, an island that you can walk to, right across from the resort and superb service.

Budget beach hotel :  El Nido Four Seasons Resort

Zip lining at Las Cabanas Beach

As you are likely to arrive late during the day, you can spend some time relaxing at the long stretch of the public beach near Las Cabanas Resort on day 1 of your El Nido itinerary.  The beach is lined with several restaurants and bars, playing good music, offering a great concoction of cocktails and superb food. You can go for a swim here, as the water is very clear and beautiful. This is probably the only beach in El Nido that has lively, has beach-side dining options and is perfect for swimming.

For the adventurous, there's a zip line that goes from the coast to the island across and it's a brilliant experience because of the breathtaking views along the way. You need to climb a steep path behind the beach to the platform which is placed on a cliff (you need good shoes , water, sunscreen because the path is extremely steep and right under the sun, without any shade). A 15-min climb to the top will bring you to the platform where you'll be made to wear the harness and you can choose between going the 'normal' way or 'Superman' style. Make sure you carry all your things with you unless you want to take the zip line back to the starting place.

Once you're on the other side, be prepared to climb down a rickety mud-and-stone path down to the beach, full of pebbles. On a rainy day, this can be very slippery so you'll have to be very vigilant while getting down. There is no proper path, just a small rope to hold on to while you figure your way out. The experience, nevertheless, is worth it.

The zip line is open from 7 am until 5.30 pm every day so make sure you get there before sunset!

Sunset at Las Cabanas

Any El Nido itinerary is incomplete without including this spectacle of nature. The sunset at Las Cabanas beach is famous and probably one of the best I've ever seen in my life! Due to low tide, the water in the sea recedes, and the island across can almost be walked to. The burning yellow sky with the silhouette of the hills in the background makes for a stunning sight. To get the best views, walk all the way to Las Cabanas Beach Resort's beachside restaurant.

Sunset at Las Cabanas Beach

Scuba Diving

You cannot visit Palawan and not experience scuba diving! Rich marine life, kaleidoscopic corals and reefs and shoals of tiny, colorful, harmless fish in some of the clearest waters you'll ever see, are reasons enough to want one to explore the mystical underwater world. When I visited The Philippines, I had never gone scuba diving and I wasn't even PADI certified. Yet, I knew I wanted to go.

Most diving companies in El Nido will offer two types of dives - Discovery Dive & Fun Dive. The Discovery Dive is targetted towards non-divers, it involves some theory and in-water training with experienced and professional instructors before going for a real dive. If you're not certified and trained, you're likely to be taken only to the shallow reefs (not deeper than 12m below sea level). If you would rather go in a group with a professional company (which I highly recommend for first-time divers), Palawan Divers  are one of the best companies you can do this tour through.

We stumbled upon another company in El Nido called Plankton Divers in Corong Corong . A family-run business, we were initially very apprehensive to go for a dive with them. There aren't many reviews of them on the internet and they have a small shop but we went ahead anyway and the experience was amazing because it was personalized. We were the only two divers on the boat but we each got one instructor and complete attention. I would highly recommend taking a trip with them if you're not too keen on going with a group and are not worried about getting a highly professional training before the experience.

We went for 2 dives in areas which were not very crowded and saw some beautiful fish! The experience was so amazing that it made me want to get PADI certified in the future. Scuba diving is a key inclusion in any El Nido itinerary!

Sunset at Nacpan Beach

This is a remote beach, located about 45 min away from the city center. Nacpan beach is yet another beautiful beach for swimming (there are very few of those in El Nido, unless you plan to take a ferry and explore the neighbouring islands), and although it is not as lively as Las Cabanas Beach and a lot less crowded, there are a few restaurants and bars located here where you can grab a bit and sip a cocktail. The ride to this beach is bumpy, you'll not see a lot of people along the way and it'll make you wonder where you're headed! Before approaching the beach, there is no proper road, just a rough path with lots of pebbles along the way and it seems slightly daunting to be going towards such an isolated place. But once you arrive, you're greeted by a beautiful white sandy beach, strewn with coconut palms and clear blue waters. Thatched-roof huts provide ample shade and fresh coconut water will keep you refreshed and hydrated during the day.

This is yet another beach to catch a brilliant sunset in the evening. However, most restaurants and bars here shut early so ensure that you make your way out before it begins to get too dark and isolated. Not that it is unsafe, but it is the sensible thing to do!

Island Hopping Tour

Before traveling to El Nido, I researched the 4 types of Island Hopping Tours available thoroughly. As you will read anywhere else, the tours in El Nido are fixed (the stops do not vary from one company to another and the cost doesn't either) so it does not really matter who you purchase it from. All tours (A, B, C, D) depart at about 9 am and return at about 5.30 pm.

If you have only 2 days, your El Nido itinerary must definitely include at least one Island Hopping Tour.

Here are my two cents on selecting the Island Hopping Tours in El Nido:

• Tour A and Tour C are the two most popular tours in El Nido. Tour A takes you to the lagoons (mostly) whereas Tour C takes you to some hidden/ secret beaches (technically, everyone goes there so they're not really hidden or secret anymore)
• All tours include lunch on board and you can ask for vegetarian food before you board the boat. They will be happy to carry some fruits, salads and vegetarian dishes along (apart from, of course, fresh seafood)
• You will be provided with life jackets and snorkeling gear on board. However, you're recommended to carry a pair of water shoes with you (which are available for rent at the pier before boarding the ferry)
• If you're choosing Tour A,  be prepared to get out of the boat and into the water (either swim or in a kayak) as there are hardly any stops which will offer you white sandy beaches to sit and relax on
• A combination tour is also available (you can combine Tour A and Tour C if you like) but the total time of the tour remains the same which means, you will get only limited time at each of the stops on the tour. In my opinion, it is better to choose one of the tours so that you get enough time in each of the stops
• If you're more of a beach bum, you should choose Tour C or Tour D.

Island Hopping Tour A

We chose the Island Hopping Tour A. This tour was the highlight of my El Nido itinerary. We visited some of the prettiest lagoons I have ever seen, kayaked in the clearest green waters that exist, surrounded by massive brown cliffs. This tour left me in total awe of nature and its wonders.

Kayaks are available for rent at a minimal price at each of the stops. You get about 30 - 45 minutes in most places and if you're an under-confident kayak rider, then don't be shy about asking your tour guide/ boatman to help you out!

Small Lagoon

You can only explore this lagoon by kayaking, so hop on one (available on the spot for a minimal charge). It is located at Miniloc Island and is usually the first stop on Tour A. The rocks and corals can be sharp (if you plan to get off the kayak) so make sure to wear your water shoes. Also, you might get bitten by some territorial fish (not poisonous, but still), so stay in your kayak if you're not willing to risk that!

Kayaking in the small lagoon, El Nido

This is the place which has been captured on several drone videos recently. When you say El Nido, you picture massive limestone rocks in the middle of emerald green waters and Big Lagoon is exactly like that! These calm waters are perfect for kayaking and if you're adventurous, you will discover some hidden caves too. Just remember to be back to your boat in time! Also, the lagoon has a lot of sea urchins, so be very careful, should you choose to go snorkeling or swimming. My advice? Stay in your kayak!

Secret Lagoon

Located in one corner of Miniloc Island, the secret lagoon is accessible only via a small crevice in the limestone rocks and you need to crawl through (prepare to be flexible!) to get to the other side, where the hidden lagoon is. Once you're inside, you're surrounded by very tall cliffs and a small lagoon located in the middle of it. Luckily the place was not very crowded when our boat arrived so we managed to get quality time. There is a beach next to the secret lagoon that you can swim too. It's not very big though and there really isn't much to do here. The boat did not stop for more than 30 min. You do not need to rent a kayak here, you can simply swim to the lagoon and the beach.

Lunch at Shimizu Island

The boat didn't exactly stop at the island for lunch which meant we ate on board. The lunch was quite decent - they had options for vegetarians as well. Just let them know in advance if you don't eat meat/ seafood and they will ensure to carry salads, fruits, and even dishes for vegetarians. The boat docked in the middle of the sea for about an hour, giving people enough time not only to enjoy a meal but also go for a swim, if they liked. There was no kayak rental available here but you could borrow the one kayak from your boat if you want.

7 Commando Beach

Each boat doing Tour A in El Nido covers the same places. However, the order may differ. We started from 7 Commando Beach on our tour. As per the story told to us by our boatmen, there was once a ship that was stranded on the island and the name of the island was derived from the name of that ship. Another white sandy beach with coconut palms lining the stretch, 7 Commando beach is not very far from El Nido town. Free to use thatched roof cottages, shops selling fresh coconut juice and snacks, and a beach swing are the highlights of this stop.

Sunset (and stroll) at El Nido Town

I almost didn't include this in my perfect El Nido itinerary for 3 days but we happened to get really late on one of our tours on the last day and reached the pier when the sun was going down. El Nido's sunsets did not disappoint me and having the opportunity to catch a new one every evening, each one better than the last, was something I really appreciated. A few restaurants located right on the beach (although the beach is not that great) serving mouthwatering Filipino delicacies is a nice place to sit and watch this spectacular scene.

Sunset in El Nido, Palawan

You may also want to explore the town, buy some souvenirs here. Colorful beachwear clothes, waterproof bags, sunglasses, water shoes, GoPro accessories and local handicrafts are easy to find here. This is the perfect end to your 3-day El Nido itinerary.

Related posts:

El Nido is one of my most favorite spots in the Philippines. I am planning to get back this year.

Yash Agarwal

Hey Im planning a trip to El Nido but have heard mixed reviews about Air Swift. Is it safe to take or should I use the PP route? Have read that they create issues with baggage too.

Medha Verma

Hey, I had no issues with Air Swift. However, I would suggest that you keep some time before your onward flight (if any) and try not to have two flights on the same day, just to be on the safer side. As for the baggage, as long as you read and follow their rules carefully, you should be fine.

Kevin Wagar

El Nido is so awesome! I was happy to see that you stayed at Minilok island! We were really hoping to stay there but it didn’t work out. We had such a riot spending 3 days there with our kids.

Hi Kevin, i am planning to go to El Nido with my husband and 4y todler in February. Do you have any recommendation for some places which are kids friendly. Also can you advise if any of these available tours are suitable for family with kids.

Kirstie Saldo

All the photos are awesome but the sunsets are the best! I understand El Nido is one of the most expensive islands in Philippines so I plan to go all the way and spend a night or two at those houses over the water. Very beautiful!

The Philippines are definitely on my travel wish list. So I was interested in reading about the El Nido area. Staying in over-water bungalows are definitely on my travel wish list. The beaches look like the perfect place to relax. At least until I head underwater to scuba dive. That is one of the big reasons we would want to visit. What a fun place for you to do a first scuba dive. The sunsets you captured all look awesome! Thanks for writing about the different island hopping options.

It was truly the best place to experience my first scuba dive!

This place looks breathtaking! I think the highlight for me would be either the zipline (I’ve done various ziplines, but never in a place so beautiful) or the island hopping tour. Looks like I’ll have to make another trip to the Philippines soon!

The zip line is more about the visual appeal of the setting here than the adrenaline rush or sense of adventure. It’s a lovely experience nevertheless 🙂

I must admit that those were three days well spent at El Nido. There are so many things to do and see and the beaches are just so beautiful. The over the water villas are amazing and I also thought you could only experience them in the Maldives. I would definitely love to try zip lining at Las Cabanas Beach.

I could’ve spent more days if I had an option! I found the zip line experience to be a lot of fun as well 🙂

I love golden hour for it offers great opportunities to click stunning colors of nature. I can spend hours cherishing that sun set at Cabanas Beach and Nacpan Beach. Would love to explore El Nido and Island hopping tour would be my first priority.

Island Hopping is THE thing to do in El Nido and there are so many options to choose from!

Wow! These are beautiful paradise islands and sunsets are amazing! I would want to go just to get these beautiful photos of the sunsets! The water is so clear, it reminds me of French Polynesia. Looks like I need to go on vacation to the Philippines in the future.

Some of the best sunsets and clearest waters I saw were in The Philippines. So if you like those two things – there’s no reason to not go!

Your sunsets shots are amazing and have raised my excitement at upcoming diving trip to Philippines in Sept even more. I would love to explore El Nido and the neighbouring islands someday, do kayaking, diving and lazying on the beach.

That’s great, where are you going diving in The Philippines?

The pictures are all fantastic! I visited Palawan six years ago but now – it seems all different esp the activities! Thanks for sharing your itinerary because we are booked there on October without anything yet!

Oh that’s lovely, hope you have a fantastic trip!

I’ve read a lot about El Nido recently, and your photos certainly do it justice! The sunset photo from Nacpan beach is absolutely stunning. Your 3-day itinerary sounds like a great mix of activities and relaxation.

Some of the best sunsets I have ever seen were in El Nido 🙂

Truly a slice of heaven on earth. El Nido has been on my radar ever since I visited the Philippines about two years ago. I heard so many wonderful things about the island. It’s great to see the picture of El Nido resort on water. Wow! The big lagoon looks simply spectacular. Amazing photos and love the list of things to do in the area.

Kavita Favelle

El Nido is definitely somewhere coming up on my radar more often recently, and your post on a suggested itinerary is helpful to get a feel for the practical side. I love the look of the Water Villas at Miniloc. Ziplining at Las Cabanas sounds fun! I’d also love to do an island hopping tour.

Island Hopping is THE thing to do in El Nido. Apart from scuba diving of course 🙂

Oh come on! Reading this and checking out these photos wants me to book an airline ticket and get to El Nido as soon as possible. I really do love your photography on your blog posts and they really do stand out.

Thank you Danik x

Alyson Long

I need one of those water cottages in my life! We recently stayed on a private island with similar ( in Indonesia) but the water was anything but crystal clear. These look amazing. As you say, Maldives-ish.

The waters in El Nido will not disappoint 🙂

My friend is going to Palawan this summer to scuba dive! I’m going to send her this article.

I didn’t know there were water villas in the Philippines! Are they decently priced unlike my dream destination of Bora Bora? XD

That zipline sounds so cool! Flying over the water to an island. The climb up and down sounds terrible though LOL

They’re cheaper than the water villas in Bora Bora for sure. That’s my dream destination too, by the way 😉 The zip line was a good experience, something a bit different 🙂

I have been looking for some over water bungalows for my 40th birthday that weren’t in the Maldives. These look like they just might fit the bill. I’ve been wanting to go to the Philippines for a couple of years now.

Wow that would be a nice way to spend your 40th 🙂

Palawan has been on my radar for years and we are hoping to visit in 2019 so this was a great time to find your article. We loved the idea of El Nido and now we are certain! I know it isn’t traditionally why people visit but that zip line looks SO much fun, that will be definitely be on our agenda.

It does take awhile to get there. I spent about a week in Palawan but stayed around Puerto Princessa and explored the island down there. I would love to return and go to El Nido. Thanks for the detailed info.

Both El Nido and Coron will be great places to explore, should you plan to visit Palawan again some day 🙂

Looks like it is worth the journey to get there. I would definitely want to stay in the over water bungalows. The island hopping and lagoons look amazing.

The over-water bungalows are a bit far from the city centre though but if you’re looking for peace and quiet, they’re perfect!

Punita Malhotra

Colorful sunsets like those are inspiring enough, but the add-on of spectacular rock formations, blue-green transparent waters and kayaking makes it El Nido irresistible. Was there anything that you missed doing?

Absolutely, I missed the tours B, C, and D 🙂 Lots of secret islands, beaches, and caves.

What a great and thorough piece! Love it. It is so informative, for sure I will use it when I visit El Nido. My top choice will be to see the Las Cabanas Beach. It seems like a place where you can do a lot of things and still relax at the same time. Besides… you had me at sunset… I am total sucker for a good spot to see a sunset 🙂

You’re in a for a treat if you like sunsets and beaches 🙂

This is a perfect post on how to get there and where to stay and what to do. The waters here are just so beautiful. So clear and gorgeous. The diving would have been just amazing. And it has kayaking too….another of my favorite activities.

Such a beautiful place El Nido is. I would definitely love to try the zip-lining at Las Cabanas Beach inspite of the sun! The lagoons also look so pretty. I am thinking of a tropical vacation right now after reading about El Nido. But then I guess I have to learn how to swim before I venture there, or else I might be miss out on the fun.

I went with my sister-in-law who also doesn’t swim. She had loads of fun anyway 😉

Abhinav Singh

I have already heard so much of good things about El Nido. The resorts are so beautiful. The mere setting of the resort makes me want to go there. I am not much of a fan of sunsets but I know a friend of mine who is crazy about sun sets. She would love El Nido for only that. I am a diving enthusiast though. And this is the reason why I want to visit El Nido.

I love sunsets too, I chase them all around the world 😀 And yeah, diving in El Nido is amazing!

Oh, that sounds like a perfect place to visit. I think I’d love to stay in one of the rooms over the water. I should save me nickels so I can. Do you know if you snorkel from the beaches if you can see things? I mean swim out some and explore. I think I would love the secret beach and the sunsets are wonderful!

Yes, of course. You can swim out and explore, the waters around El Nido are rich in marine life.

Places like this are why I would absolutely love to visit the Philippines. I haven’t been to El Nido, but I’m dying to get there. The Secret Lagoon is definitely on my list. Really, I just want to spend all the time in those beautiful, blue waters! So amazing!

Tracie Howe

I’ve been wanting to visit the Philippines, but I wasn’t sure what areas just yet. I haven’t done much research, but I’ll definitely save this as a resource for when I do plan a trip, because I can’t miss El Nido! It’s beautiful! I’m an outdoor enthusiast too, so this is right up my alley. Kayaking around the lagoon sounds like a lot of fun!

You should also consider Cebu. I haven’t been but that’s going to be on my list for the next time I go 🙂

El Nido looks like such a perfect holiday in the Philipines! I love that Air Swift have several flights from Manila, making it a bit more easier access. Your sunset at Nacpan Beach looks absolutely incredible. And I am loving the idea of island hopping – tour C would totally be my pick because I love the idea of exploring hidden secret beaches.

If I had more time, Tour C would’ve been my 2nd pick 🙂

What exotic places you visit!!! El nido is so gorgeous, definitely a must visit for a beach person. Scuba diving and island hopping is something I would like to do. Thanks for sharing the detailed itinerary.

I really think that The Philippines is over looked as a stunning beach destination. El Nido is a clear example of that.

One of those over water villas at Manioc Island has my name on them! I could quite easily escape there for a long long time.

Not sure about the zip lining though, looks pretty scary but wow that view!

It wasn’t scary at all, it was pure fun 🙂

Such a beautiful place! I love that turquoise water of Philippines I always see in photos. Hopefully someday I get to explore the country. This seems to be a perfect itinerary. We definitely like the same activities.

You will love El Nido then 🙂

El Nido seems unbelievably beautiful. I’d love to visit these pristine beaches but driving for 6-7 hours after a flight to Puerto Princesa doesn’t sound too appealing. If I were to go, I’d probably stop in Puerto Princesa for a few days. Is there anything special to visit there?

I am from the Philippines and I haven’t been to El Nido. It is a plane ride away from Manila but I think I should go soon! It looks beautiful and very pristine!

It’s one of the top destinations to visit in the world right now. You should go there soon!

This is probably one of the most detailed and exceptional itineraries for Wl Nido, Medha. I will definitely use your itinerary when planning my trip there. Are three days enough to see all the highlights there?

Lydia I would suggest to spend 5 days, if possible. As mentioned, there are several other tours such as Tour B, C & D which involve exploring secret islands and beaches, caves, etc. Given a chance, you should do those as well!

I love itinerary type articles – such great ideas! I particularly like that you included sunset spots. And if I go to El Nido I’ll have to stay at the overwater villas!

There aren’t too many overwater villas in the Philippines. El Nido has a few and this one is probably the best option 🙂

Wow! This is such a beautiful place. I have never been to the Philippines but this looks like worth the trip. I would love to go scuba diving and kayaking.

It’s the perfect place for water activities 🙂

Clarice Lao

El Nido has been on my bucket list thus, we’re spending my husband’s birthday there in December. Your post just made us more excited about our upcoming trip.

That’s fantastic! Have fun 🙂

Peter Korchnak

Beautiful indeed. I’d love the kayaking tour around the islands and lagoons, especially the (not so) Secret Lagoon. I do wonder how the closure of Boracay affects El Nido.

Boracay and El Nido are very different actually. El Nido has more of diving sites, lagoons and beaches far away from the mainland, meant for people looking for adventure and exploring nature. Boracay on the other hand (was) more of a party destination, with a gorgeous white beach right on the mainland itself, lined with bars, cafes, massage beds, tattoo artists and what not.

Such stunning pics Medha .. this turquoise blue water is so soothing .. excellent choice of accomodation.. so glad u enjoyed diving so much that u plan to get padi certified.. u will love the underwater world

It’s a different world down there 🙂

I’ve read so much about the Philippines recently, and El Nido seems to be a perfect….Nido, nestled (pun intended) in the edenic part. The cabanes on the sea look just wonderful – I really hear the Philippines shouting my name loud and clear 😉

El nido is such a gorgeous Island, definitely has so much to offer for a beach person. Scuba diving and island hopping sounds like a perfect option to completely explore this magical place. Thanks for sharing the detailed itinerary.

A stroll around the world

Hi! I truly enjoyed reading your post and would definitely check this places in person! What is the best period of the year to go there? Is it a child-friendly area? Is it possible to book a private boat that brings you around the lagoons and the area?

I won’t call it very child-friendly to be honest unless you’re the sorts who is used to taking your child to not so convenient places 🙂 Yes, it is possible to rent a private boat to take you to the lagoons but to explore inside them, you’d still have to rent a kayak because bigger boats cannot enter inside. You could also do one of the other tours (private) if you like where they take you to the hidden islands and beaches. The best time to visit The Philippines is between November – March 🙂

Such dreamy and wonderful stay options at El Nido. Zip lining at Las Cabanas Beach seems like a must experience there. Seeing your pic I am really tempted to go on a drive there.

I’ve been wanting to go to El Nido for ages. Overwater bungalows – yes please! And sign me up for scuba diving and those sunsets every night.

They can get a little expensive though – the overwater bungalows. If I hadn’t already stayed in one in the Maldives, I would’ve shelled out a few extra bucks for this one. It does look pretty awesome!

Hii Medha, Lately i have read many articles on El Nido and that has generated sincere interest in me to explore this part of Philippines. The blue water and white sandy beaches are too tempting. I would love to stay at Water Villas at Miniloc island which looks so pristine. And being an adventure lover, I am certain to try Zip Lining at Las Cabanas Beach followed by some golden hour shots there. I am yet to explore any Lagoons and el nido looks perfect for a Lagoon hopping spree. All photographs are superb.

I am sure you will love Palawan and El Nido specifically, Himanshu. Hope you get there soon x

I need a tropical vacation soon! The thought of those huge limestone rocks, hidden caves and colorful coral with bungalows over the green water has me drooling! Bookmarking for future travel

I need one tropical vacation (at least) every year 😉

El Nido looks beautiful! I haven’t been to the Philippines yet but I keep hearing how amazing their beaches are. Great read though, I didn’t realize some companies let you go diving without a PADI certification. Seems like a good idea for a taster so you can see if it’s worth it to you to get certified.

It was pretty cool that they did! I don’t have certification and I really wanted to experience it. So happy I could.

Rashmi and Chalukya

We have not been to El Nido yet but have heard so many wonderful things about the place. The Las Cabanas Beach looks stunning with the crystal clear water and the sunset is breathtaking. We have never gone Scuba Diving too and its something we wouldn’t want to miss if we visit El Nido. Thanks for the tips!

It was my first ever Scuba dive experience and I don’t think I could have picked a better place for it!

The idea of a sumptuous water villa at Miniloc Island really does get me excited! It’s very tempting to think of only being 20 mins from the mainland, but still in a remote island paradise – heaven.

I love water villas myself!

Tamara Elliott

Your photos are sooooo dreamy- I would especially like to kayak in those lagoons. It looks so fun!

It IS a lot of fun 😉

Kellee @ LifeAdventurers

This place looks like sheer paradise and the fact you have a plan for just 3 days suits me perfectly. I can’t sit on the beach doing nothing for long, I need something to do. Thank you for sharing.

I totally get that. I love beaches and water but even I am not the sort of person who can just sit on the beach and do nothing, for long. I loved how El Nido had so much to explore!

Arnav Mathur

To start with, I was also under the impression that the experience of staying in a water villa, was limited to Maldives, Bora Bora, but now that I know, that El Nino is also on the list, the place has become my top new favourite. I love kayaking, and scuba diving, and couple that with amazing sunset views, and its a winner for me. Thanks for such an amazing post, with equally appealing pictures.

I was in El Nido 3 years ago and loved it!! The water is so clear. You can see so much underwater when you snorkel and scuba dive. I didn’t know there’s ziplining though!

Sandy N Vyjay

El Nido is indeed a paradise in paradise. El Nido seems to be the glittering gem of the Philippines. The resorts all look so surreal. Love the look of the water cottages. It would be great to wake up in one of those. The scuba diving experience you had also seems to be unique and personalized.

The scuba dive experience was my first ever and I am glad that we got such personalised attention 🙂 El Nido really was amazing!

I’ve been hearing so many good things about the Philippines lately! When I visit one day, I definitely want to stay on Miniloc Island in a water villa, that sounds so romantic. Plus, I’ll make sure to go kayaking in the small lagoon, that looks like a great adventure travel activity.

Water villas can be slightly expensive and a little away from the main town, but totally worth the experience, especially if you haven’t lived in one before!

You have listed perfect 3 days itinerary for El Nido. Living in water cottages must be very beautiful thing to do here. Sunset at La Cabanas beach is hypnotic and I am truly amazed stunning landscapes of these islands. A very detailed post with all necessary details.

There aren’t too many water cottages in The Philippines like there are in the Maldives. However, there are a few pretty cool options and this is one of them 🙂

A great destination and something which is getting a lot of attention as a tourist destination these days. Perfect beaches and a lot of activities too make a bucket list destination. Perfect sunsets at las cabanas beach with the small and big lagoon again top spots for me. Your photos bring life into the post Thanks for sharing.

What a beautiful itinerary, and stunning photos too! Thanks for being honest about the secret lagoon; some places are so pretty, but if there’s nothing to do there, there’s nothing to do! Las Cabanas Beach is probably my favourite, just because of that sunset, it’s gorgeous! And I’m a big baby when it comes to heights, so don’t think I can do that zipline anytime soon! Would love to though!

The zipline was quite cool actually, not scary at all, maybe you should give it a shot sometime 😉 And yeah, the sunset from Las Cabanas was really breathtaking – one of the best I’ve seen in my life.

I highly suggest, if you are coming from Puerto Princessa, to stop over to Port Barton on your way to El Nido!

Were you able to do all of the boat tours? Out of my 3 visits to El Nido, I always seem to get stuck on doing tour A and C. Just want to know your thoughts on the other two.

I’m glad you enjoyed your time! 3 days is a perfect itinerary!

Thanks for the suggestion Mick. Unfortunately, since I had only 3 days, I had to pick one out of all the four options and after thorough research, I picked A 🙂 Hopefully, I will be able to do the remaining 3 next time.

When I see pictures like this I really wish I’d visited El Niño during my trip to the Philippines. I was somewhat put off by the journey from Puerto Princess but I did not realise you could take the boat from coron so that is a great tip. Thanks for sharing

So where all did you manage to go on your trip to The Philippines? I know, the road trip from Puerto Princessa sounds like a pain to me as well!

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🏝️Perfect El Nido Itinerary For 2 – 5 Days [2024]

Heading to El Nido and looking for the perfect El Nido Palawan itinerary? Perfect! We can help in this El Nido itinerary blog post.

Let’s be honest; even the name sounds exotic… Famed for its clean white beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the dramatic limestone cliffs of Bacuit Bay, El Nido is everything and more than you anticipate. Spend lazy days bopping around on emerald seas – island-hopping to hidden lagoons – or hang in hammocks, surrounded by palm trees and breath-taking views.

The ultimate paradise vacation destination that doesn’t need to break your wallet, visitors delight in long stretches of empty beaches, marvel at the colourful underwater world of the marine sanctuaries that teem with tropical fish, and end days relaxing shoreside watching world class sunsets.

Away from the water, El Nido offers other delights such as lush forests full of flora and fauna, with endemic animals and an abundance of birdlife. Other adventures await with an exploration of local caves and hikes to waterfalls, a thrilling Zipline between two islands, a canopy walk and a lively town for things to do in El Nido at night.

One of the most popular destinations in the Philippines, El Nido is a place everyone should tick off at least once!

Below, you will find the ultimate itinerary: El Nido, Palawan! We walk you through options whether you have just 2 days in El Nido or are looking for a full El Nido itinerary 5d4n. You can simply stop following our Palawan El Nido itinerary if your trip finishes in less than 5 days when you hit the number of days you have or pick the days that sound best from the El Nido DIY itinerary below.

We also have a complete list of what to do in El Nido Palawan so you can decide if the stops in our itinerary are perfect for you. You will find all the options for El Nido activities.

Finally, we also recommend some top places to stay in El Nido depending on your budget and some tips for visiting El Nido with kids.

Table of Contents

El Nido Itinerary 2024

Remember, this is a full 5 days itinerary in El Nido, Palawan. If you have fewer days, simply pick the days that most appeal.

This can be either an El Nido budget itinerary or a luxury one – you can pick the quality of accommodation and activities to suit your budget.

El Nido Itinerary 1 Day: Epic El Nido: Lagoons, Beaches and Fish!

Starting with the most popular activity in El Nido to do, join the full day El Nido Island Hopping Tour A to discover the beauty of Bacuit Bay.

• Head to El Nido beach and barter your way to an excellent deal for Tour A, one of the best things to do in El Nido
• Enjoy swimming at any two of the famed three lagoons: Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, and explore or relax at 7 Commando Beach and Shimizu Island, all top El Nido tourist attractions
• Back to El Nido, discover El Nido Town proper for dinner, full of lively bars and restaurants

Click here for discounted tour A tickets now.

El Nido Itinerary 2 Days: El Nido Inland Adventures

Rent motorbikes, scooters or join an organised van-tour to discover the local nature and beaches, ticking off some of the top 10 places to visit in El Nido, Palawan.

• Start early with a visit to El Nido Public Market, stocking up on provisions for today’s trip
• After breakfast, head out to Makinit Hot Springs, before the heat of the day makes this an uncomfortable spot to visit
• Drive on to nearby Nagkalit-Kalit Waterfalls for an invigorating 40-minute trek up to the falls, refreshing with a chilly swim in the Jungle Pool
• The final stop of your day are the awesome twin beaches of Nacpan – a truly iconic beach and one of the places to visit in El Nido Palawan – and Calitang, a great spot for sunset
• Head home and dine at your hotel, before finding a fun karaoke bar for an evening sing-song

El Nido Itinerary 3 Days: Snorkelling or Diving Delights

On day 3 of your El Nido 3 days 2 nights itinerary, it is time to discover the best place in El Nido… the underwater world… with a day spent either snorkelling or diving.

• For snorkelling enthusiasts, head to El Nido beach and join Tour C, possibly the second most popular of all the tours and full of epic snorkelling points
• Visit Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Star Beach, Helicopter Island (a highlight of El Nido Palawan places to visit) and a final stop at Matinloc Shrine. …and of course, somewhere along the way enjoy a great BBQ lunch!
• Once back in El Nido Town take a 15-minute tricycle ride to Papaya Beach to end your day with a last epic snorkel before catching another great sunset.
• For divers, prebook a full day’s dive from any one of the many operators found in El Nido Town proper. Stand out spots include Miniloc Island, with four dive sites, Twin Rocks, Banayan Point and Bikanayos Rock.
• Finish the day with a well earned drink beachside, watching another El Nido epic sunset… or it is sadly time to depart if you are enjoying an El Nido itinerary 3d2n.

You can book a luxury tour C here.

El Nido Itinerary 4 Days: Waves and Kites at Duli and Sibaltan

Pre-arrange a full day’s van-rental for this El Nido itinerary 4 days, and head to Duli to catch some waves, followed by a visit to awesome Sibaltan, with its wild 2km of coastline.

• First stop of the day is at Duli Beach for surfing lessons with Mike
• After a bite to eat at the onsite local restaurant, head off to Sibaltan
• Drop by the Balay Cuyonon Museum to discover the traditions of this local tribe
• Try your hand at kitesurfing at Sibaltan Beach or sit back and spectate
• For dinner, stop off at any one of the beaches near to El Nido for beachside alfresco dining… or it is farewell time if you’re enjoying an El Nido itinerary 4d3n

El Nido Itinerary 5 Days: Something Different, El Nido Style

Wondering what to do in El Nido, Philippines today? Challenge yourself by trying something different… followed by a last lazy afternoon at the beach.

• Reach the top of Taraw Cliff – either dramatically via a guided self-climb or the safer El Nido Canopy Walk. Located in Town proper, this is one of the El Nido best things to do.
• Try a freediving experience, learning to control your breath underwater
• Rent a clear-kayak for self discovery of Bacuit Bay’s lagoons and beaches
• Discover the birdlife of El Nido, all 279 species!
• Head back out to sea for Tour B, taking in the awesome Cathedral Caves
• Towards the end of the afternoon head to Las Cabanas Beach for a dramatic Zipline whiz between two islands or taking the more scenic return via a beautiful sandbank. Definitely one of the top 10 things to do in El Nido.
• End your day at any one of the bars or restaurants at Las Cabanas, catching the iconic sunset and planning out your next visit!

Complete List Of Best Things To Do In El Nido Palawan

Island hopping tours.

Discovering the hidden gems of Bacuit Bay archipelago is the reason most visitors arrive in El Nido. Drawn by the crystal clear waters that teem with schools of fish, starfish, sea urchins, colourful corals and turtles, island hopping tours are the most popular activities in El Nido.

Official tours, labelled Tour A, B, C and D, depart from El Nido around the Bay. Banca and speed boats are on offer, and you should ensure to barter a good deal. Join with fellow travellers to reduce rates or hire privately for the ultimate experience.

Enjoy a half or full day snorkelling and kayaking over reefs, enveloped by towering walls of jagged rock that cradle Robinson-Crusoe-styled inlets. Drop anchor and dine on freshly cooked fish, local fruits and refresh with coconut juice.

The four tours are unique, but on all tours, you’ll visit islands, beaches and snorkelling points.

• Tour A – lagoons and beaches
• Tour B – caves and islands
• Tour C – snorkelling and a shrine
• Tour D – island beaches

Bacuit Bay, El Nido attractions include Miniloc, famous for its two lagoons – the Big Lagoon and the Small Lagoon – and the islands of Matinloc and Tapiutan. Keep an eye out whilst swimming for elusive dugongs, graceful manta rays, cheeky sea turtles and much, much more!

Days spent exploring jaw dropping Bacuit Bay are truly memorable. Grab sun lotion, snorkel and fins, and discover what has made El Nido world-famous.

For discounted tickets for these tours click the following links: Tour A (super cheap), Tour B in a luxury wooden boat ,  Tour C in a luxury speedboat , or Tour D in a luxury catamaran .

Cathedral Caves

One of the highlights of Tour B, Cathedral Cave is a unique rock formation that is a top favourite for El Nido visitors. Named after its narrow, high-ceilinged entryway, visitors need to (dare to!) swim inside to discover the interior. Lit in parts by a natural hole in the ceiling, the deep interior is dark and noisy from the waves, making this a thrilling adventure. Huge stalactites and pillars surround you and the water is often filled with an incredible luminescent light.

But beware, as tour guides relate fables of sharks, rays and other bizarre animals said to have been spotted inside…!

Balay Cuyonon Museum

The Cuyonon tribe of Palawan, with ancestors traced back to early settlers and traders such as Chinese, Arabs, Indians, Malays and Spanish, were known for their customs and unusual style of living.

Located along Silbaltan’s beachfront, the Balay Cuyonon Museum features a replica of a traditional Cuyunon house, fully-furnished with tools and decor – almost all authentic.

An interactive museum, this is an ideal stop for families, as young children will enjoy banging on the drum that Cuyonon mothers used for calling home their children, playing with traditional toys or trying on a raincoat made from thick woven plant leaves.

A quiet and small museum, it provides an interesting insight into the tribe’s history and customs. …and be sure to combine with a walk along Silbaltan’s 2km spectacular beach.

Address: Sibaltan, El Nido, Palawan

Nagkalit-Kalit Waterfalls

Away from Bacuit Bay, Nagkalit-Kalit Waterfalls is one of the main tourist attractions in El Nido, Palawan. Just an hour outside of El Nido Town at Pasadena, the falls are located deep in the forest. Travel by jeep on an organised tour or self-discover by renting motorbikes, and enjoy this magical waterfall with a great “jungle pool” at the base that’s ideal for a cooling swim, making this one of the best places to visit in El Nido.

From the roadside, it’s a 30-40 minute trek from a local village to the falls. Enjoy a back-to-nature feel, as you trek alongside green rice fields, spotting carabaos and horses, and cross through some low-running rivers. Prepare to get your shoes and feet wet!

Combine this with a visit to the splendid Nacpan Beach.

Address: Pasadena, El Nido, Palawan

Makinit Hot Springs

Just 20km from El Nido Town, Makinit Hot Springs is a popular stop on all Inland Tours, in fact one of the top places to visit in El Nido. But be warned, it’s a dusty and pot-marked road that leads you to the Springs, muddy if it’s been raining recently.

Expect the unexpected here, as there are no concrete pools and it’s impossible to swim. Watch your step as near to the Spring it turns muddy and you’ll feel the heat coming up from the ground.

Enjoy the unspoilt nature of the place and heat of the water that can boil eggs… definitely a stranger “El Nido must do”!

Address: Brgy. Makinit, El Nido, Palawan

Las Cabanas Beach Zipline

Here’s something you don’t find every day… a zip line between two islands! Definitely one of the most unique things to do in El Nido, Philippines.

Located at Las Cabanas Beach – one of the best places in El Nido – just 15 minutes from El Nido Town, the Zipline platform is easily spotted at one end of the beach. Head uphill on a small hike from the main road, taking you to the bamboo structure. After a safety briefing, strap in for a thrilling ride!

Fly 750-meters across a coconut fringed beach and out over the sea to Depeldet Island… making this one of the world’s most picturesque zip lines and one of the best things to do in El Nido, Palawan.

You have the choice of sitting or superman position, and can either take a one-way to Depeldet Island or return to your starting position. We recommend taking the one-way and returning via the stunning sandbank that connects the two islands.

Address: Corong-Corong, El Nido, Palawan

Sunset At Las Cabanas

The beach at Las Cabanas faces west and offers one of the best places to go in El Nido to catch a spectacular sunset. The setting fireball disappears over a horizon speckled with islands and cliffs that are silhouetted against the sky, making for some dramatic photos.

The beach offers a handful of bars to unwind at, some with fire pits and chilled tunes. Or, in the fading sunlight, try your hand at gentle watersports such as SUP or kayak, a relaxing way to finish your day and both top things to do in El Nido.

Hang around for dinner at the beachside restaurants and marvel at the stunning star-lit sky.

Swim At Local Beaches

Discovering the beaches of El Nido is an epic day out! A favourite destination for beach enthusiasts, it doesn’t disappoint with picturesque scenery at every turn and some of the best beaches in the Philippines.

Possibly the most famous of El Nido places to visit are the inland twin beaches Nacpan and Calitang. Adjacent strips of white sand, these beaches are a short tricycle ride from El Nido Town proper.

Nacpan Beach is a quiet and serene spot, a far cry from busy El Nido Town. Bare, undeveloped, it stretches for an awesome 4km of fine white sand, cushioned by tall palm trees on one side and lapped by turquoise waters on the other.

Walk across to Calitang Beach and up the small hill at one end that offers a great photo spot of both beaches. Sunsets in Calitang are also spectacular, with the orange sky reflected in the calm waters, a highlight of things to see in El Nido.

Corong Corong Beach is another perfect place to chill out for a few hours, with shallow waters making this ideal for families with younger children. A hidden paradise, there are a handful of homes built on stilts right on the beach, making this spot a great way to discover local life.

End your day at Marimegmeg Beach or nearby Las Cabanas, both great for catching an epic sunset and top of the most romantic things to do in El Nido. Easy to reach from El Nido Town proper, these are popular settings, with activities such as biking, hiking, cliff-jumping, fishing, kayak, SUP and snorkelling.

Duli Beach is an uncrowded and remote stretch of beach that is a haven for surfers, definitely the best place in El Nido Palawan for cutting some waves! Known as Surfer’s Paradise, season dependent you can find some great waves (especially in the rainy months). Approximately 20 minutes from El Nido Town proper, rent a scooter for a cool ride through the lush interior countryside.

Search out Mike for renting a long or short surfboard (hence the beach is sometimes known as Mike’s Point), and if you’re lucky, he will help with some lessons too. More details here .

Kiteboard/Kitesurfing are growing attractions in El Nido Palawan, with the best location being Sibaltan approximately 42km from El Nido Town proper. Once there, look for Qi Palawan Kiteboarding, located within Qi Palawan Resort, a small eco-resort.

Sibaltan is a rustic village, with a long empty stretch of beach offering fantastic views. Through November to March fierce winds rip through it, providing some great conditions. If staying overnight, you’ll find some very cheap shoreside accommodation but little other entertainment in this sleepy end-of-the-world feel village.

Diving And Snorkeling

Dating back almost 250 million years, Bacuit Bay is one of the world’s top diving and snorkelling sites. Basically a huge slab of ancient reef, Bacuit Bay offers some of the highest levels of marine biodiversity in the world.

Snorkelling is fantastic as the Bay is shallow and the marine habitat diverse. Coral reefs are home to a myriad of colourful fish, such as schools of damselfishes and large parrotfishes in eye-popping patterns.  Check out Tour C for some of the best snorkelling spots around the Bay.

Inland, Papaya Beach is perfect for snorkelling fans, with reefs just a few feet from the shore. Ideal also for children who don’t want to swim out too far to spot colourful fish.

Whether you enjoy shallow dives or vertical walls, night dives or deep dives, El Nido has them all! With 20 dive sites, all within 20 minutes of the town, this is a dive-enthusiasts paradise. Macro highlights of the area include seahorses, nudibranch and a plethora of crustaceans. Big fish include reef sharks, rays, schooling jacks, snapper, barracuda and groupers. And loveable turtles are seen at most dive sites.

The ultimate El Nido Palawan attractions, you’ll find numerous companies in El Nido Town proper offering snorkelling and diving trips, including PADI operators, or check with your hotel.

Click here for a discounted scuba diving course for beginners in El Nido.

Free Diving

In El Nido’s calm and clear waters, why not take advantage of these ideal conditions and try something a little different.

Learn to free dive with a two day course, with no prior diving experience necessary. A combination of theory and in-water training will help you master different freediving techniques. By the end of the course, you’ll be diving between 10m and 20m for 1-2 minutes!

Are you already experienced? An underwater wonderland awaits you. Join a tour to some of the best dive sites in El Nido, where you will find submerged seamounts, amazing rock formations and huge walls covered in coral. …or for the more adventurous, underwater tunnels and caves.

You don’t need to join an organised tour to enjoy kayaking in El Nido. Rent a kayak from El Nido Town or the ideal location is Corong Corong Beach ten minutes outside of Town. Splurge on a clear kayak, giving an awesome twist to your trip, easily spotting colourful fish and corals. And, if with your partner,  take a double-kayak for double-the-fun!

Pick up some drinks and snacks, a waterproof bag with swimwear, water shoes, sunblock and sunglasses, set your GoPro and head off to explore nearby islands. Stop off at beaches, coves and lagoons, relaxing or snorkelling. At these quiet spots lookout for monkeys, hornbills and big monitor lizards, before heading out to explore the next bay.

Prefer the reassurance of kayaking with a group? You’ll easily find a half or full day group tour, taking you around the calm waters and lagoons of Bacuit Bay. Bear in mind that some of the spots you’ll visit are already included in the Island-Hopping A, B, C, D tours, so aim for somewhere new.

Away from busy boat crowds, kayaking is a wonderful way to explore Bacuit Bay and is an especially awesome angle from which to catch an El Nido sunset.

Bird Watching

Looking for things to do in El Nido aside from island hopping, something unusual and not regularly suggested in “top ten things to do in El Nido” listings? Why not spend a few hours discovering the wildlife of Palawan.

At the northern tip of Palawan, El Nido is home to an extensive area of old growth forest which holds several of the locally threatened species, such as the beautiful Palawan peacock-pheasant and the majestic Palawan hornbill.

With fauna and flora more closely related to that of Borneo, there are over 279 species of birds found in Palawan! Join guided tours of the area and have your cameras at the ready. Contact Wild Expeditions Palawan for more information.

Climb Taraw Cliff

Offering the best viewpoint in El Nido Town proper, climbing Taraw Peak – which rises 230 meters at the rear of the town – can be arranged via various local agencies. A popular pre-sunrise activity, you’ll be equipped with gloves and a guide, and should expect a 4-6 am-ish start.

Definitely one for the thrill-seekers, taking approximately an hour each way, this is a challenging climb/scramble, with vertical steps (without any hold-ropes) and sharp limestone rocks. Prepare to break a sweat on this!

If you’re afraid of heights, leave this one out. However the view from the top is simply breath-taking… but then the descent is even harder!

You can buy discounted tickets for this attraction by clicking here.

El Nido Canopy Walk

Looking for the same view as from the top of Taraw Cliff, but without the challenge? Head to El Nido Canopy Walk (El Nido Taraw Via Ferrata), where man-made steps with a combination of bridges and platforms, take you up in ten minutes to admire the spectacular view across El Nido Town and out to Bacuit Bay.

Armed with a helmet, guide and attached to a zipline, you will easily reach the viewing platform by a short walk up safe stairs and secure scaffolding. Open 8 am-5 pm, thrill at the scenic view and crossing a 75 meter long suspension bridge. Still challenging for anyone scared of heights, this is an extremely safe way to reach the top for splendid El Nido views, making this the top of things to do in El Nido town.

Address: Rizal St, El Nido, Palawan

Visit The Public Market

It’s an early start for this one, as every morning from 4 am the El Nido Public Market opens to sell fruits and vegetables from nearby farms, and freshly caught fish.

Drop by for a slice of real Philippine life or to search out some goodies before your full day kayak, island-hopping or road trip.

It is near Corong-Corong beach, on the side of the main road.

Address: Rizal St, Brgy. Corong Corong, El Nido, Palawan

Things To Do In Palawan El Nido Map

Find all the El Nido Palawan things to do on the map below.

Where To Stay In El Nido

There are so many accommodation options, it is easy to get flummoxed when trying to settle on the most ideal El Nido location. Options range from hostels to luxury Palawan hotels, from the lively and ideally-located El Nido Town proper to nearby beach resorts, to the crème-de-la-crème exclusive remote island resorts.

El  Nido Town is a small beach town that retains a rustic vibe. The beach is super busy, with island-hopping and diving bancas constantly departing and arriving, speed boats whizzing lucky guests off to remote island resorts. Restaurants, souvenir shops and tour operators can be found in the town, with a surprisingly wide range of cuisines catered for.

Looking for somewhere quieter, check out hotels at the beaches nearby El Nido Town. Offering a more “holiday destination” atmosphere, these mostly open out onto the beach, have small bars or restaurants facing the sea, with prime sunset-positions.

Or splurge for the ultimate stay at any one of the 5-star island resorts sprinkled throughout Bacuit Bay. Villas on stilts in calm lagoons, beach villas, private-pool villas, luxury spas, alfresco fine dining and luxury speed boats for island hopping tours… all add up to perfection.

Below I’ve listed a few different places to consider including a budget, mid-range and more expensive option.

BEST – Cauayan Island Resort Review

Picture-postcard perfect, Cauayan Island Resort is everything your mind conjures up when thinking of the Philippines. Tropical flowers, lush palm trees and beautiful wooden thatched villas – some on stilts over the lagoon, at the beach and dotted throughout the green middle of the island – are waiting to offer you a true slice of heaven!

A strong contender for the best El Nido 5 star hotel, the Resort is famed for its outdoor infinity pool, with the restaurant decking wrapped alongside. Dine under the stars on stunning cuisine, served by attentive staff… whilst gawping in awe at the star-filled sky at this remote location.

Approx 25 minutes by speed boat from El Nido Town beach, the resort offers rustic villas with modern interiors, with the majority having outdoor showers and some with private pools. A luxury spa, built on stilts at one end of the lagoon awaits you after your busy day island-hopping and snorkelling.

The inhouse dive team offer up to 15 dive sites, or try your hand at kayaking around the island – with a packed lunch if you want to make a day of it. Yoga, sunset-cruises, island guided treks and more can be arranged at this stunning resort.

Click here for the latest prices

MID-RANGE – El Nido Mahogany Beach Resort Review

Ideally located at Corong Corong, just outside of El Nido Town proper, this hotel is encased by a 5000sqm coconut grove and tropical gardens. Relax and unwind at this traditional Philippine resort.

Garden villas or deluxe rooms – mainly simple thatched villas – are scattered throughout the property. Featuring wood, rattan and wicker furniture, blended with modern elegant bathrooms, there’s an air of old-Philippines and years gone by.

Guests snooze in their wicker hammocks or enjoy in-room massages after days busy touring the area. Relax at the outdoor pool or enjoy a nice sunset cocktail from the poolside bar.

With a slight boutique feel, friendly staff and a chilled, relaxed atmosphere, this is our standout mid-range selection.

BUDGET – Amakan Bed | Bunk | Breakfast Review

Only six minutes from El Nido Town beach, this is the best place to stay in El Nido on a budget. A 2-star basic boutique bed and breakfast, the hotel is heavily tailored towards foreign clientele… with a Filipino twist.

Traditional bamboo walls and trellises mix with modern furniture. Chill out tables under sun umbrellas, subtle lighting and exotic plants all help to emit a relaxing environment.

Rooms are air-conditioned, with cable television and daily housekeeping. All budgets and room sizes are catered for, with a mixture of bunk beds, queen and quadruple rooms.

Breakfast buffet is served until 9.30 am, and there’s an inhouse restaurant – Lanai-at-Amakan – available for dinner, 6-9 pm.

Click here to see all our recommendations for the best places to stay in El Nido.

Visiting El Nido With Kids

In a nutshell, El Nido is a fantastic family destination. Children adore island-hopping, spotting hundreds of fish without even leaving the boat, hand feeding them with bread in the shallow lagoons, jumping on and off the boats in calm waters and exploring beaches with incredible cliffs that bring to mind the Jurassic age!

Safety onboard the bancas is well addressed, with adequate life-jackets, onboard advice before setting out and friendly helpful guides. Children love the snaking sandbars, catching fish on hand-lines, climbing hills for great island vistas, drinking from freshly cut coconuts, exploring caves and more!

Other El Nido top things to do with kids include water sports such as SUP, kayak and sailing. Trying a fun surfing lesson, picnicking on numerous gorgeous beaches, riding around the local area in fun tricycles, gliding along a thrilling zipline (for teenagers), and walking the canopy bridge up to Taraw Cliff for awesome early-morning views are just some of the top things to do in El Nido.

Finger-licking beach BBQs for lunch and vast dining options for dinner in El Nido Town (with doughnuts, pizza and ice-cream parlours) or alfresco dining under starry skies around swimming pools or beachside, suit even the pickiest of eaters.

Less than 30 minutes from El Nido Airport, the transfer is nice and short for parents with young children. Travel between December and March, avoiding the super hot months of April and May, ensuring to pack spray for mosquitoes and sand-flies. Follow our El Nido Palawan itinerary 3d 2n or take it slower spreading activities across an El Nido Palawan itinerary 5d 4n.

There are many things to do in El Nido with kids, making this a safe, fun and nature-filled beautiful Philippines family vacation destination.

How To Get To El Nido

El Nido is part of Palawan, a long island in the south of the Philippines. Home to two airports, Palawan has an international airport in Puerto Princesa, and a domestic airport at El Nido, with flights daily from Manila, Cebu and a handful of other Philippine locations.

Aim to arrive at El Nido Airport, as it’s a 5-6 hour overland drive from Puerto Princesa. However, flights are limited into El Nido and it is a very small airport that is sometimes closed in bad weather, thus select which option suits your travel plans best. To see all the latest flights and prices, click here.

You can read our full guide to traveling from Puerto Princesa to El Nido here.

Another way to reach El Nido is by sea, taking a ferry from Coron (approximately 4 hours) or other surrounding islands. Aim for a fast-craft and pay for upgraded seating whenever possible.

To see all the latest ferry times and prices, click here.

Read our guide here on getting to El Nido from Coron

Final Words

There are countless reasons to visit beautiful El Nido, from its splendid marine life and the islands of Bacuit Bay, to its world-class beaches, lagoons and lush inland hills. Epic sunsets, alfresco dining night-after-night, waterfalls, caves and more… all presented by fun-loving Filipino who enjoy nothing more than sharing with visitors their love for the country.

Numerous treasures await your discovery, book now!

We hope you enjoyed this sample itinerary for El Nido Palawan and complete list of things to do in El Nido, Palawan, Philippines. We also have a guide for a Puerto Princesa itinerary here or you can read our  perfect Palawan And Coron Palawan Itinerary. .  Find all our other guides to Palawan here.

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By Julia Rolph

Julia first discovered the Philippines in 2011, eventually settling in beautiful Bantayan Island, Cebu, with her daughter and Filipino partner.  The family spend every vacation exploring the Philippines, and Julia enjoys helping others discover this wonderful destination. When she's not sharing her vast Philippines knowledge here, she works as a travel planner planning trips for people who want to visit the Philippines

El Nido Travel Guide with Itinerary and Budget (2024)

• Post author By Project Gora
• Post date January 8, 2024

Planning a trip to El Nido, Palawan? This El Nido Travel Guide will help you plan and also give you an idea about the expenses you might expect for your visit. This isn’t a long guide so please do check it out until the end. I promise I only included the essentials. Enjoy!

Consistently voted as one of the “Most Beautiful Islands in the World”, El Nido is everyone’s dream island destination. Adorned with imposing limestone cliffs so characteristic of Palawan, it boasts incredible biodiversity both above and below the surface.

I first travelled to El Nido in 2013 went it wasn’t that known among foreign and local tourists. Since then, it became one of the most popular islands in the Philippines . It became too touristy that I wasn’t able to recognize the once laid-back town when I came back. The ugly face of tourism boom welcomed me. Fortunately, it isn’t representative of El Nido as a whole.

Table of Contents

From Manila to Puerto Prinsesa or El Nido

From coron to el nido, how to get around el nido, where to book an island-hopping tour, where to stay in el nido, here are some of the restaurants i was able to try and will recommend:, travel to el nido (day 1), el nido island hopping tour (day 2), el nido island hopping tour (day 3), back to puerto princesa (day 4), how to get to el nido.

The most popular way to get to El Nido is by taking a plane. From Manila, it’s about an hour flight to Puerto Princesa International Airport , Palawan’s main airport. From there, take a shared van to El Nido (travel time is 3-4 hours and one way fare is from $10 or 600 pesos). Alternatively, you may take a direct flight from Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 4 to Lio Airport . Air Swift operates daily flights from Manila and fares vary depending on the season. Expensive, yes, but this is the fastest way to get to El Nido. 

Tip: If you decide to take the Puerto Prinsesa route, get the earliest flight from Manila so you’ll get to El Nido before lunch time. Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines fly to Puerto Prinsesa daily. There are van transfers from Puerto Prinsesa to El Nido as early

I know travelling to a new place can be nerve-wracking and, micro-managing the trip is inevitable. If you want to pre-book your ticket for a fast ferry from El Nido to Coron or vice versa, then Bookaway.com is a great option for you. The booking process in this app/website is quite simple. You just have to select the departure/arrival points and travel date, and it will give you various transportation options – from bus, van, flight, car, taxi and ferry.

Note: Fares in their website are a little higher compared to getting tickets directly. However, if you love the convenience of doing basically everything online, then this is a good alternative.

Although there aren’t many transportation options in El Nido, you can absolutely get by by renting a motorcycle. The roads are in great condition except the roads leading to Nacpan Beach. For less than $10 (500 pesos) per day, you can rent a motorcycle. Gas is only a few dollars which can already last for a day of adventure. Another option is by taking a tricycle, which costs less than $1 (50 pesos) per ride depending on the distance. 

There are 4 main island hopping tours – A, B, C, and D. Having tried all island tours, I recommend that you start with “Tour A” and “Tour C” as these two routes include the best islands and lagoons. 

• El Nido Tour A ($21.50 / 1,200 pesos): Small Lagoon or Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Payong-payong, Secret Lagoon and Seven Commando Beach
• El Nido Tour B ($23 / 1,300 pesos): Pinagbuyutan Island, Cudugnon Cave, Cathedral Cave, Snake Island, and Entalula Island
• El Nido Tour C ($25 / 1,400 pesos): Secret Beach, Hidden Beach,  Matinloc Shrine, Helicopter Island, and Tapiutan Island
• El Nido Tour D ($21.50 / 1,200 pesos): Small Lagoon, Natnat Beach, Cadlao Lagoon, Pasandigan Cove, and Paradise Beach
• Small Group Island-hopping Catamaran Tour
• Small Group Island-hopping Speedboat Tour

There are numerous accommodation options in El Nido, from small guesthouses to luxury resorts. Whatever your budget is, there will surely be somewhere that will fit your needs. If you are looking for a place right in the center, then choose the seaside backpacker street (main town or Poblacion). More accommodation options are located in Calle Real, located just on the opposite side of the main street. If you want to stay somewhere off-the-beaten, then Nacpan Beach is a great choice.

Here are some of the best places to stay in El Nido, based on TripAdvisor reviews:

• Sea Cocoon Hotel – a mid-scale hotel located just a few minute walk from the beach
• Spin Designer Hostel – one of the most Instgrammable hostels in Palawan
• Mad Monkey Hostel – a budget hostel along Nacpan Beach
• Nacpan Beach Glamping – an Instagrammable glamping site located in the palm tree–filled property in Nacpan Beach
• El Nido Resorts Lagen Island – a luxury island resort located in Lagen Island
• El Nido Resorts Miniloc Island – a luxury island resort surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and a vibrant coral reef system in Miniloc Island
• El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island – an eco-luxury island resort hidden in Bacuit Bay
• Qi Palawan – a Boutique resort set in the undiscovered area of Sitio Palabuayan

Where to eat in El Nido

Years ago, El Nido is not known for its food scene. If anything, it is more known for just a couple of great restaurants like Altrove. When I came back, I learned that the bars and restaurants are thriving and that more and more specialty eats can be found here. I splurged on food during our trip and I have no regrets!

• The Nesting Table – I loved the cozy vibe of this restaurant and their emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.
• Taste El Nido – The Vegan Cafe PH – I’m not vegan, but I definitely enjoyed my meals here. Their eggplant lasagna, mac and cheese, COFFEE (legit coffee) and smoothie bowls (smooth red and cool blue) were both nutritious and packed with flavor.
• THE CAVERN Pod Hotel & Specialty Cafe – This cafe’s unique ambiance and selection of coffee, pastries, and light meals made it the perfect spot to unwind and relax after a long day of exploring El Nido.
• Bella Vita El Nido – Italian food lovers won’t want to miss Bella Vita. Their wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta dishes were both delicious and authentic.
• Altrove – I loved that Altrove’s menu included a variety of dishes from all over the world. It was a great spot to try something new and the food was always top-notch.
• Big Bad Thai Bistro & Bar – I’m a big fan of Thai food, and Big Bad Thai did not disappoint. Their authentic dishes such as Tom Yum and Pad Thai were packed with flavors and very filling.
• Happiness Beach Bar – This beachfront bar and restaurant was the perfect spot to grab a cocktail and watch the sunset. Highly recommend their Shakshuka, Pita Falafel, Amaretto Sour, and Happiness Salad.
• Ashoka – Authentic Indian Cuisine – As an Indian food fan, I was thrilled to find Ashoka. Their Chicken Tikka Masala and Garlic and Cheese Naan were made with the freshest ingredients and always hit the spot.
• Gusto Gelato + Bistro – After a hot day of exploring, I loved grabbing a refreshing scoop of gelato from Gusto Gelato. They had a wide range of flavors, as well as light bites and sandwiches. I personally liked their Eggs Benedict and Affogato.
• Osaka Castle El Nido Sushi & Ramen – Highly recommended for you Japanese food lovers! Their spicy salmon poke bowl, Osaka original Takoyaki and ramen were both delicious and filling.

El Nido Travel Guide: Sample 4D/3N Itinerary and Budget

• Earliest Flight from Manila to Puerto Princesa
• Van from Puerto Princesa Airport to El Nido – $10 (600 pesos)
• Tricycle from Van Terminal to hotel – $1 (50 pesos)
• Check-in to your chosen accommodation – $50 per night (9,000 pesos good 2 for 3 nights) *estimated accommodation costs only
• Lunch at El Nido Town Beach
• Tricycle to Las Cabanas Beach – $1 (50 pesos)
• Sunset and dinner at Las Cabanas Beach
• Breakfast (book a hotel with free breakfast)
• Pay environmental fee at the beach – $4 (200 pesos)
• Tour A : Small Lagoon or Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Payong-payong, Secret Lagoon and Seven Commando Beach – $21.50 (1,200 pesos)
• Back to accommodation
• Tour C : Secret Beach, Hidden Beach,  Matinloc Shrine, Helicopter Island, and Tapiutan Island – $25 (1,400 pesos)
• Rent a motorcycle or charter a tricycle to Nacpan Beach – $10-$20 (500 pesos per motorcyle or 1,200 pesos for tricycle charter)
• Pay environmental fee – $1 (50 pesos)
• Lunch and check out from accommodation
• Take a tricycle to terminal $1 (50 pesos)
• Travel from El Nido to Puerto Princesa – $10 (600 pesos)
• Dinner in the city
• Take a tricycle to Puerto Princesa Airport – $1 (50 pesos)
• Flight from Puerto Princesa to Manila (best to get a later flight so you can still explore El Nido before making your way back to Puerto Prinsesa)

If you follow this El Nido Travel Guide, budget around 10,000-15,000 pesos ( $180-270 ) per person . If you have more time to spare, you can certainly do island-hopping for 3 days to maximize your stay and see more of El Nido’s best attractions!

Disclaimer:  This El Nido Travel Guide budget can be achieved if you have at least one travel companion. Only the basic expenses will be included in the total calculation (tours and entrance fees, accommodation, transportation and transfers) Other personal expenses such as airfare, food, alcohol, souvenirs, shopping, and the likes are not included. Also, please note cost fluctuate depending on season. Information was up to date at the time of writing.

Enjoying the trip so far? Continue your adventure in Palawan!

After an awesome trip in El Nido, continue your journey to Coron and discover the best diving sites in the Philippines. The trip from El Nido to Coron presents an incredible opportunity to explore more of Palawan’s paradise. Alternatively, discover some of Palawan’s off-the-beaten destinations like Port Barton , San Vicente or Balabac.

That’s it my dear readers! I hope this El Nido Travel Guide will help your trip planning. Feel free to leave a comment below, send a DM on my Instagram or message me on Facebook if you have questions, comments or suggestions! 

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By Project Gora

Hey there! My name is Milet Miranda, and I'm a full-time corporate employee during weekdays and a traveler during weekends (and holidays...you get the picture). I'm a foodie at heart and I love joining food tours. When I'm not traveling, you'll find me walking my dogs or biking around my neighborhood.

Philippine Gem: A Complete Guide to El Nido, Palawan

“ El Nido is known as the Philippines’ last frontier, and if you’re looking for magnificent beaches in an unspoiled setting, it’s a perfect place for you to vacation.” – Tripadvisor

Do basic research before your trip and you will surely read nothing but good words for the paradise that is El Nido, Palawan . Boasting its clear waters, superb snorkeling sites, pristine beaches and a laidback atmosphere, the photos you will get to see during your long-distance exploration will make you want to jump right in those awesome landscape shots.

Check out some of the cool and cheap tours you could do in El Nido .

El Nido is in general an accessible destination, and routes depend on your point of origin. In this article, we shall briefly discuss the most widely traversed paths on the road to this local pride.

(CHEAP OPTION) A common touchdown point for travelers is the Puerto Princesa Domestic Airport. Popular carriers such as Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Air Asia offer low rates to Puerto Princesa. I was able to purchase a return ticket for as low as Php300 – a few weeks before my travel dates!

Check out some of the cool and cheap tours you could do in Puerto Princesa .

(OTHER OPTION) Enjoy the luxury of landing directly in El Nido in the comfort of a chartered plane. One-way fare costs around Php7,000. For more information, email this address .

Cargo/Passenger Ferries travel from Manila to El Nido via Coron. More about it here .

El Nido is about 5 hours away from Puerto Princesa. Several modes of transportation are made available for the traveling crowd:

BY SHUTTLE VAN

Conveniently located near the airport exit, the van terminal to Puerto Princesa is hard to miss. If booked in advance, a representative will be waiting for you as you exit the airport and assist you on your way to the terminal (which is just a breezy 3-minute walk) EULEN JOY charges Php600 per trip. It is best to call in advance for slot reservations, although walk-in passengers are most welcome.

Eulen Joy offers trips every 2 to 3 hours starting from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Call their booking office at 0926-6998700.

If your flight to Puerto Princesa is arriving in the late afternoon (most flights with promotional fares do) CHERRY BUSES have trips as late as 9:00 PM. Call 0935-8666569 for more details.

RORO BUSES , on the other hand, offer trips as early as 4:00 AM. Get in touch with them at 0998-1846761.

El Nido locals are generally pleasant and accommodating. At times, you get to see and test a community’s prevalent culture by the way it treats you especially when you look (and act) like a clueless tourist in the neighborhood. As with El Nido, what probably struck me is their way of “doing business” or “offering services” to you – in a polite, smiling manner, very far from the usual aggressive approach of business people elsewhere.

Know more about Philip as we move along in the article. He will be more than happy to welcome you to his humble roots.

A week is not enough to get a decent grasp of the island lifestyle. With the towering stilts in your backyard and the sound of crashing waves as your alarm, you can’t help thinking how good life is, right?

By mere observance of a traveler, the day starts at about 6 AM, when you can already hear students rushing to the nearby school and inn caretakers sweeping the backyard with their trusty brooms.

People and tourists alike roam around early in the morning to catch the laidback sunshine vibe. A land tour in the area will make you appreciate the place even more.

“Are you sure we’re just leaving our vehicle on the side of the road, without any chain lock?”, the city girl in me asked. Our guide just smiled. “Paranoid urban settlers. How can they live life with too much threat?” he must have thought.

“Habal-habal” is a popular means of transport in El Nido. It is a motorcycle, covered or uncovered, transporting about two people (plus the driver) at a time. The price range varies, depending on the distance and any negotiations made before the trip.

Dependable tricycles can also be found in the area. Short distances will cost you about Php20, provided you pick up your ride at the proper terminals.

Vehicles for rent are widely available in El Nido, too. A popular choice for tourists is motorbikes-for-rent.

Booking accommodation in El Nido is made hassle-free by the wide choices available both online and onsite. El Nido’s offerings have gradually improved in the course of five years, wherein more local properties are being converted and reconstructed to accommodate the varying needs of the modern tourist.

Related Article: List of Best Hostels in Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron

Two Monkeys Travel Group recommends:

OCEAN VISTA INN 

Conveniently situated in Buena Suerte and right in front of the tour boat dock, Ocean Vista is a nice inn owned and managed by Philip, our El Nido host.

The lot formerly housed the family’s home, and when Philip saw the need for additional accommodation in the area, he decided to convert the place into a three-story inn. Two floors are dedicated to family and sharing rooms, while the third floor is perfectly conceptualized as a bar overlooking the vast waters and towering cliffs of El Nido.

Give it three to five years more, and Ocean Vista will have a spacious section specifically dedicated to backpackers.

Contact Philip at 0917-5616080. A proper website is under construction; meanwhile, you can contact the team on Facebook. (Mention our blog and they can give you a discount!)

ALSO, CHECK OUT:

Together Pension – a simple, convenient, and well-maintained pension house; also near the tour boat docks. Good choice for unfussy travelers on a budget (but without sacrificing comfort.) Check their reviews on Tripadvisor .

What is El Nido without island hopping?

The divine tours of El Nido are one of the most sought-after arranged tours in the Philippines. The destination has breath-taking underwater sceneries and spectacular islands to boast about, so in order not to miss such beauty, make sure to do a weather check before coming to this destination.

Several instances have been reported wherein tourists were not able to go on already-booked tours because of Signal 1 typhoon warnings from the municipality. Yes, the officials and tour operators take weather announcements from the bureau very seriously, and even if you reason out that seems to seem evident, or worse – you rent a local’s unauthorized boat just to push through with your tour – chances are there will be no one giving in to your appeal. Stay safe and follow regulations, yes?

SEALAND VENTURE EL NIDO

Before joining the accommodation providing sector, Philip has already made a name for giving professional and fun island tours through his business Sealand Venture. Its office is situated right near the bay wherein tours commence (with Ocean Vista now as its backdrop). Aside from its office’s accessibility to tourists, Sealand Venture also takes pride in its well-trained staff and safe vessels. Rates are found below:

Included in the tour rates are as follows:

Licensed boat, Licensed in-house tour guide (1 tour guide per 6 persons), Passenger insurance , Picnic lunch, Drinking water, Mask/snorkel, Towels, Hotel pick-up

All tours start at 9:00 AM. Lunch commences at one of the stopovers at about 1:00 PM. Expect to arrive back in town by 4:00 PM. As with combination tours, two tours will have to be squeezed in on a 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM time frame. No tour boats are allowed to go past 6:00 PM.

In a dilemma which island tour to choose? If you need to choose…

ONLY 1 TOUR – Go for Tour C

Why: Based on reviews and local recommendations, Tour C is the most picked option among all tours. It features good diving sites and varied sceneries. Our tour guide said that most postcard-worthy photos that we see all around media are in Tour C. The view of El Nido atop the Matinloc Shrine cliffs is a must-see.

ONLY 2 TOURS – Go for Tours A & C

Why: Personally, in picking the best tour, it was a close call between Tours A and C. A definite good addition to your already-awesome Tour C would be Tour A’s Small and Big Lagoons. You can rent paddleboards and kayaks in this area for about Php200.

ONLY 3 TOURS – Go for Tours A, C, and B

Why: Make your visit even more memorable by adding in Tour B. On this tour, you get to explore the Cudognon cave from the inside and walk through Snake Island’s sandbar.

LEAVING OUT TOUR D?

Why: Don’t get me wrong – Tour D is also remarkable, but its offerings are not as grand as the three’s. Upon snorkeling in the aforementioned tours, you tend to expect that all snorkeling sites are as superb as the others. What you can experience in Tour D, you can also experience in the other tours.

Rainy season? Do not fret. Inland tours are almost always available!

Get personal advice from a trusted local. Contact Philip at 0917-5616080 or drop him a message on Facebook.

There has been no major disappointment about offerings during our stay in El Nido. It has a lot to offer, cuisine type-wise:

“I’m craving for…”

COMFORT FOOD: Try EL NIDO PIZZA

Location :  Click here

Must-order : Any flavor of their hand-tossed brick oven pizza, Mushroom risotto

Price range : Php 400 to 500 for a group of 3 small eaters

SEAFOOD: Try SQUIDO’S

Must-order : Seafood curry, stuffed squid

Price range : Php 500 for a group of 2 hungry tourists

WESTERN FOOD: Try V&V BAGEL

Must-order : Delicatessen Bagel

Price range : Php 250 for a person who would like to splurge on food

LATE-NIGHT DRINKS: Try LONESOME CARABAO

Must-order : Quesadillas partnered with their local and foreign liquor brands

Price range : Php500 per person for a night of adult fun

DESSERT: Try BELLE ILE TAKE OUT RESTAURANT

Must-order : Honey calamansi crepe, Assortment of muffins

Price range : Php 100 for a person who likes desserts so much

For travelers on a tight budget , there will always be a trusty nearby carinderia at every turn, and food choices vary daily. You only have dinner to think about, anyway, as breakfast would almost always be included in your accommodation and lunch will be served during tours.

Aside from your usual travel must-have, these are some essential items you might want to highly consider bringing with you when you come to El Nido:

• Powerbanks (One thing you need to take into consideration when going to El Nido is its recurring electricity blackout. Know the “no-electricity schedule” once you arrive. Although most establishments do have their own generator sets, some small businesses still do not have theirs.)
• Waterproof pouch for your mobile phone (The Php50 pouch in Divisoria worked fine.)
• Waterproof or underwater camera (That DSLR will almost always have to stay in your bag during tours, except if it is properly geared for water activities. If you have no waterproof camera, there are some for rent in the area – talk to your Tour Provider beforehand.)
• Extra money during tours (You will be asked to pay a one-time environmental fee. Allot a sum for tips as well, if you are the kind who gives.)

If you have seen all tours…

There will always be that one tour that will emerge as your favorite. Why not go back, take that tour and linger longer? Better yet, bring your friends and family who have not been to this paradise before. You’ll be with a new set of explorers – who knows what awesomeness that brings?

If you have seen all tours, but just ‘dropped by’ at the Secret Beach (which cannot be accessed during high tide)…

I believe it is worth going back to. It will not be ‘secret’ for anything, right?

If you have picked only one or two tours…

Take a chance on the other tours that you missed. Anyway, in a year or so you will find yourself daydreaming about El Nido again!

If you were not able to take any tours due to unforeseen circumstances…

Need I say more? El Nido is waiting for you, my friend!

A Note of Gratitude: Two Monkeys Travel Group would like to thank Mr. Philip Morales of Ocean Vista Inn & Sealand Venture for a superb El Nido experience!

Check out some of the cool and cheap tours you could do in Palawan .

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11 thoughts on “ Philippine Gem: A Complete Guide to El Nido, Palawan ”

Hi I’m going to have a enjoyable trip. Thanks for the guidance.

This is the best for long distance travelers to explore everything.

thank you for writing such a nice post on El Nido! I’m planning a trip to the Philippines for 2019 and I’m still doing a lot of research to see what I can do during my 3 weeks there! I want to do some diving, I’ve heard that Paglugaban is a fantastic cave to explore, but I really want to see all the best that this part of the world has to offer.

Very informative El Nido blog I’ve read so far! Readers would really dream of going to El Nido upon reading your blog. Keep it up…

Hi Pauline! My boyfriend and I were looking to go to El Nido at the end of the year. I’ve read some disturbing things about safety in the area and was wondering if you could shed some light on precautionary measures to take. Is it ideal to go what with the occurrence of kidnappings etc…any info. Would be muchly appreciated!

Hello Ameera, As someone that has been to El Nido and to many parts of the Philippines, El Nido is not the area you need to worry about. The island of Palawan is massive. The island is roughly 65o kms long. El Nido is at the northern tip of the island, and the security threat comes from the far southern tip of the island. I will be traveling to El Nido in August and I always feel more safe in El Nido than I do in many parts of America. The people of Palawan are some of the most generous people in the world. They may not be the richest (monetarily) but if you are in need, many will give you the shirt off their back.

Hi Pauline! I am having a hard time figuring out Airswift’s baggage allowance. If I bring 20kg in December (prior to Dec. 15), how much (extra) would I have to pay? How about after Dec. 15? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Wow!!it’s really amazing…I can’t wait to go there..We’re planning to go to El Nido month of oct.this year..Beautiful..

hi, i just wanna ask which camera did you use during your tour? all your pictures are amazing!!

thanks, jeff

What an informative post! I have a question though. If I’m traveling on a budget, should I go to El Nido, Coron, or Puerto Princesa? Thanks! 🙂

Hi Faith! Thank you =) Ironic as it may seem, El Nido is out of the list then, and it would be a battle against Coron and Puerto Princesa. The expense of travelling to El Nido from the airport is the sole factor I considered for you. Aside from that, the three will require almost the same budget from you. I guess it will totally depend on the cost of your flight tickets. Frequent seat sales – by observation this point goes to Puerto Princesa.

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

• Post author: Glen Nomad
• Post comments: 0 Comments
• 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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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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Loboc River Cruise in Bohol

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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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2024 Complete Guide to Puerto Princesa DIY Itinerary & Budget: Everything You Need to Know

Before anything else, I’d like to say thank you to DOT MIMAROPA for giving me the chance to explore Puerto Princesa. This travel guide aims to create a promotional content for this lovely Province. Joana Paola Gutierrez | Joan’s Footprints

The largest island province in the Philippines never fails to amaze us. Coron and El Nido being in the North and Balabac in the South, and guess what ? I think we’ve got it all covered in the middle part too! Puerto Princesa doesn’t just open gateways to the North and South, it is also home to amazing destinations like Honda Bay , UNESCO World Heritage Underground River , stunning beaches and other thrilling activities!

Puerto Princesa presents more of the history and indigenous culture of the Palaw’ans . You’ll get the chance to understand Palawan, learn more about the ethnic tribes, and get to know about the culture through just by trying their local food.

Yes, Palawan is definitely not just about its amazing beaches. It gives us the chance to dive in to its colorful culture and traditions.

Table of Contents

HELPFUL LINKS

Related travel guides.

• WHERE TO EAT & MUST TRY FOOD IN PUERTO PRINCESA
• HONDA BAY DIY TRAVEL GUIDE (BUDGET & ITINERARY)

Search For Discounted Flights to PPS

• BOOK CHEAP FLIGHTS HERE

Hotel Accommodations on Agoda

• SEARCH FOR HOTEL DEALS AROUND PUERTO PRINCESA HERE

Discounted Tours & Airport Transfers Via Klook

• BOOK SHARED AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION HERE
• BOOK DISCOUNTED CITY TOUR VIA KLOOK HERE
• DISCOUNTED FIREFLY WATCHING VIA KLOOK HERE
• BOOK DISCOUNTED HONDA BAY ISLAND HOPPING TOUR VIA KLOOK
• BOOK DISCOUNTED UNDERGROUND RIVER TOUR HERE

About Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Puerto Princesa is the capital of the island province of Palawan . The city has been awarded several times as the cleanest and greenest city in the Philippines. Although the predominant language is Tagalog , Cuyonon is widely spoken and used throughout the whole city, as well as Hiligaynon and other Visayan languages. Moreover, English is also widely spoken in the City.

The main mode of transportation in the City includes public tricycles, multicabs , buses and vans. Although Palawan is an all year-round destination, the best time to go here is still during summer season. The months of March-May would be the best choice for that.

How to get to Puerto Princesa?

The airport to get here will be Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS). There are daily flights offered by low-cost airlines like AirAsia, Cebu Pacific, AirSwift and Philippines Airlines. Subsequently, outside the airport there are public transportations like tricycles and multicabs going to the town proper. You may opt to ride public transportation or book a Shared Airport Transfer via Klook.

• BOOK CHEAP FLIGHTS HERE PHP2,800.00 ROUNDTRIP FLIGHT
• BOOK AIRPORT TRANSFER HERE PHP400.00 ONE WAY

Where to Stay in Puerto Princesa?

Deciding where to stay won’t be a problem. There are lots of hotels around the city to choose from. Below are some of my recommended hotels depending on your budget:

For budget travelers , below are homestays/inns available in the City:

• CASAORO HOMESTAY – PHP470.00/NIGHT GOOD FOR 2

• GRANDMAS HOUSE HOMESTAY – PHP299.00/NIGHT GOOD FOR 2

If you have a budget on hotel rooms, I highly recommend Aziza Paradise Hotel. This is where I stayed for 4 nights, amenities includes a large lobby, swimming pool, wifi, bar and restaurant. It is also located about 2-3 minutes away from the Airport.

• AZIZA PARADISE HOTEL – PHP3,000.00/NIGHT GOOD FOR 2

• HUE HOTEL AND RESORT – PHP3,000.00/NIGHT GOOD FOR 2

Hue Hotel is also one of my recommended hotels around the City. Aside from it is located 2-3 minutes away from the airport, they have lots of room availabilities, amenities like swimming pool, bar, lounge, spa, restaurant and free airport transfers too. It is also walking distance from Robinsons Mall and other restaurants.

• PRINCESA GARDEN ISLAND RESORT AND SPA – PHP6,500.00/NIGHT GOOD FOR 2

Lastly, this is the resort I recommend if you want a luxurious place to stay. Rated with 5 stars, this high-quality property provides guests with access to restaurant and outdoor pool on-site.

Where to Eat in Puerto Princesa?

I created a separate article about what to try/eat and best restaurants around the town, click the link below! Furthermore, my first recommended restaurant would be at Kalui ‘s! This restaurant is one of the busiest and most popular in the City. An advance reservation is highly recommended to get a table here.

Another is the Kinabuch ‘s, this restaurant is also famous for serving a local exotic food tamilok . Get to know more about this exotic food by clicking the link below.

READ SEPARATE ARTICLE HERE: MUST TRY FOOD/RESTAURANTS IN PUERTO PRINCESA

3 Days Puerto Princesa DIY Itinerary & Budget + Places to Visit

This Puerto Princesa DIY Itinerary is assuming that you are taking the earliest flight to PPS and a late flight on the last day.

DAY 1: CITY TOUR + BAYWALK FIREFLY WATCHING

The best way to start your Puerto Princesa trip is to do a City Tour. It’s like your warm up exercise before going to the most exciting part. Puerto Princesa is more than just the famous underground river and its beautiful beaches, it’s also a place filled with amazing cultural spots that are vital to every tourist’s visit. Below are the places to visit for a whole day City Tour.

Binuatan Creation Weaving Loom Center

You’ll be able to see and even try making handloom woven products and items made from indigenous fibers. There is also a store where you can buy these handloom woven products which is also a good idea for souvenirs. Entrance Fee: Free entrance Operating Hours: 7am-6pm

Butterfly Garden & Tribal Village

Showcases a sheer variety of butterflies. Other animals can be see here too like the Palawan Peacock and Palawan Bearcat. To get there, by tricycle from the airport or from the city proper – Php 300.00 good for three (3) persons or take the jeepney or multicab bound to Sta. Monica along national highway Php16.00 / person. Entrance Fee: Php60.00; Children/PWD/Senior Citizen is Php50.00) Operating Hours: 8:30am-5pm How to get there: Take the jeepney or multicab bound to Sta. Monica along national highway Php16.00 / person.

Palawan Wildlife Rescue & Conservation Center

Or better known as Crocodile Farm. The center is a breeding place for Philippine crocodiles as well as home to a few endangered animals. You’ll not only be able to observe freshwater and saltwater crocodiles, you also get to pet some baby crocs too! Entrance Fee: Php40.00 Operating Hours: 8am-5pm How to get there: Take the jeepney or multicab bound to Sta Monica along national highway Php16.00 / person.

Mitra’s Ranch

Gives you a spectacular panoramic hilltop view of Puerto Princesa.  Entrance Fee: Free entrance Operating Hours: 6am-6pm How to get there: Take the jeepney or multicab bound to Sta Monica along national highway Php16.00 / person.

Baker’s Hill

A famous bakery for its sweet delicacies, with everything from cashew nuts, hopia , brownies, and more local delicacies that are perfect for snacking and bringing home as souvenirs.  Entrance Fee: Free entrance Operating Hours: 7am-8pm How to get there: Take the jeepney or multicab bound to Sta Monica along national highway Php16.00 / person. Near Mitra Ranch.

Amaza Pearls & Souvenir Shop

Here you can score cheap fresh water pearls/earings for as low as Php15.00/pair! This is the best place to buy all you souvenirs too.

Baywalk Firefly Watching

An amazing natural wonder in Puerto Princesa. This tour will give you a breathtaking experience of watching them closely as they glow together in clusters. Definitely a satisfying 20-30 minutes trip of watching them in pitch darkness with only the stars above you and the amazing fireflies by the trees.

Do this in the morning: BOOK DISCOUNTED CITY TOUR VIA KLOOK HERE : PHP600.00/PAX

Do this in the evening: BOOK DISCOUNTED FIREFLY WATCHING VIA KLOOK HERE

DAY 2: HONDA BAY ISLAND HOPPING

Honda Bay island hopping is the most popular island hopping trip when in Puerto Princesa. It has about 11 islands in total but a day tour would recommend visiting 3 islands. The top 3 most visited islands would be (1) Starfish Island, (2) Luli Island and (3) Cowrie Island.

How to get to Honda Bay? To get here the DIY way, proceed to  Mendoza Park  and ride  multicabs  with  Sta Lordes Honda Bay  signage. These multicabs will go directly to the wharf where you can rent a boat for Honda Bay island hopping. In addition, it also passes by Robinsons Mall and Hue Hotel which makes it more convenient if you will be staying anywhere near that area.

Environmental fee is Php150.00/pax and terminal fee is Php5.00/pax only. Refer to the photo below for updated boat rental rates . Important note: cut-off time of island hopping is at 2:30pm.

There are snorkeling gears available for rent at the registration area. I highly recommend renting your snorkeling gears here rather than renting gears on each island you will visit which will definitely cost you more. But if you have your own gears, might as well just bring it with you.

• Starfish Island – entrance fee Php50.00/pax
• Luli Island – entrance fee Php70.00/pax
• Cowrie Island – entrance fee Php100.00/pax

READ SEPARATE ARTICLE HERE: 2023 HONDAY BAY DIY TRAVEL GUIDE

For hassle-free tour with hotel pick up and drop off service: BOOK DISCOUNTED HONDA BAY ISLAND HOPPING TOUR VIA KLOOK

DAY 3: UNDERGROUND RIVER

You’ve never really been to Puerto Princesa if you didn’t go to the UNESCO World Heritage Underground River. A tour to the subterranean river will take up a whole day, considering the 2 hours travel from Puerto Princesa City to Sabang, a 20 minute boat ride and the actual Underground River tour itself.

Upon reaching the start of the Underground River tour, there will be an assigned boatman for each group. The boatman will serve as your tour guide as well. Take note that this is an audio tour so they will provide you a single ear piece where you can listen to an audio about the cave.

Don’t forget to bring along dry bag with extra clothes, towel, flip flops, water bottle, insect repellent, sunscreen and cash in local currency.

How to go to the Underground River DIY way?

Step 1: Charter a tricycle and head to the San Jose Terminal which is located in San Jose Public Market. Step 2: There are jeepneys, ordinary buses and van going to Sabang Port. Advise the driver that you are going to the Underground River. Fare ranges from Php200.00-300.00 depending on what mode of transportation you will choose from and the travel time is 2-3 hours. Step 3: From the Sabang Port, go to the information center and register.

Underground River Expenses (DIY Expenses)

• Php735.00/person registration fee (Entrance fee Php500.00; Environmental fee Php150.00; Audio device Php85.00)
• Boat rental fee is Php1,100.00 good for 6 person

For hassle-free tour with hotel pick up and drop off: BOOK DISCOUNTED UNDERGROUND RIVER TOUR HERE PHP1,900.00/pax

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Joana Paola Gutierrez

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