island hopping tours el nido

A Guide to El Nido Island Hopping Tours

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

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

Come to Palawan!

El nido island hopping tours, el nido tour a.

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

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

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

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

Secret Lagoon

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

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

Shimizu Island

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

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

7 Commandos Beach

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

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

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

El Nido Tour A by Shared Boat

El Nido Tour A by Private Boat

El nido tour b.

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

Snake Island

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

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

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

Cudugnon Cave

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

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

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

Cathedral Cave

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

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

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

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

Entalula Island

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

Popolkan Island

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

El Nido Tour B by Shared Boat

El Nido Tour B by Private Boat

El nido tour c.

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

Helicopter Island

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

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

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

Secret Beach

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

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

Hidden Beach

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

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

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

Matinloc Shrine

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

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

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

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

El Nido Tour C by Shared Boat

El Nido Tour C by Private Boat

El nido tour d.

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

Small Lagoon

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

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

Cadlao Lagoon

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

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

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

Pasandigan Cove

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

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

Nat Nat Beach

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

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

Paradise Beach

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

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

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

Bucal Island

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

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

El Nido Tour D by Shared Boat

El Nido Tour D by Private Boat

El Nido Island Hopping – Guide To The Best Tours

Posted on Last updated: June 4, 2023

El Nido is a small, beachside town on the northern tip of Palawan island, which has become increasingly popular over the last few years.

It’s mostly used as a base for exploring the incredible natural splendour of the surrounding archipelago.

Known as the Bacuit Archipelago, the area is home to some of the most beautiful islands, lagoons, and beaches in the world. There’s stunning scenery everywhere you look.

The waters are incredibly clear and the sand is always brilliant white. Striking limestone rock formations pepper the sea, with tropical trees and coconuts in abundance.

Enjoying the untouched beaches of El Nido

I was lucky enough to explore the area with some island hopping tours during my trip through the Philippines , and I’m here to tell you how to do the same. A bit of island hopping is a must on any El Nido itinerary .

In this guide, I break down everything you need to know about going island hopping in El Nido, and share some tips on how to make the most of your visit.

If you’re looking to spend some incredible days in paradise island hopping amongst pristine beaches and clear water, El Nido is the place for you!

You might just be unsure about what tour to do, which is where this El Nido tours overview comes in!

• 2 My El Nido, Palawan island hopping experience
• 3.1.1 Pinagbuyutan Island
• 3.1.2 Snake Island, El Nido
• 3.1.3 Entalula Beach
• 3.1.4 Seven Commandos Beach
• 3.2.1 Paradise Beach
• 3.2.2 Pasandigan Beach
• 3.2.3 Helicopter Island, El Nido
• 3.2.4 Cadlao Lagoon
• 4.1 The El Nido lagoons on Tour A
• 4.2 The caves on Tour B
• 5 Where to stay in El Nido

Snorkelling in El Nido

A brief run down of the El Nido standard tours

Taking a Palawan island hopping tour is without a doubt the best and most popular way to experience the area. There are four main El Nido island hopping tours. Named simply A, B, C, and D.

Tour A is the most popular of the bunch, meaning it’s also generally the most crowded. But it’s a favourite for good reason, boasting some of the most epic islands and stunning lagoons.

It makes stops at Small Lagoon, 7 Commando Beach, Secret Lagoon, Big Lagoon, and Shimizu Island.

Check out prices & availability for your El Nido Tour A on GetYourGuide , Klook , or in the calendar below!

Exploring Seven Commandos Beach in El Nido

Tour B is less popular and more laid back than Tour A. This makes for an amazing day of adventure and sightseeing without as many tourists.

Tour B’s stops include Pinagbuyutan Island, Vigan Island, Cathedral Cave, Cudugnon Cave, and Entalula Beach.

Check out prices & availability for your El Nido island hopping Tour B on Klook , GetYourGuide , or the calendar below!

Me and my friends @solarpoweredblonde and @offgoesannie chilling on the beach at Pinagbuyutan Island. Drone shot by @solarpoweredblonde

Tour C is a strong contender for the most popular tour and is often considered the best one. This, of course, means that it can also get quite busy.

But it stops at some incredible destinations, including Helicopter Island, Secret Beach, Mantiloc Shrine, Hidden Beach, and Star Beach.

Check out prices & availability for your Tour C in El Nido on Klook , GetYourGuide , or the calendar below!

The turquoise water of El Nido, Philippines

Tour D explores the path less-travelled. It’s the quietest of the four and avoids most of the ‘must-see’ attractions.

But it stops at some hidden gems: Ipil Beach, Paradise Beach, Cadlao Lagoon, Pasandigan Beach, Bukal Beach, and Natnat Beach.

Click here to book your spot on El Nido Tour D , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Some of the beautiful corals you will see when snorkelling on your El Nido island hopping tours

My El Nido, Palawan island hopping experience

Most travellers here just pick one or two of the four classic El Nido boat tours and follow the crowd. But island hopping in the area has become incredibly popular. So the standard tours can get quite crowded and feel overly ‘touristy’.

Fortunately, there are other ways to do it. We organised all of our El Nido island tours through Outpost Beach Hostel , and I’m really glad that we did.

The tours we took allowed us to see the best bits of all the classic tours with a great group of people. All while avoiding the crowds.

| READ MORE: 15 BREATHTAKINGLY BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN THE PHILIPPINES |

The sunset view from Outpost Beach Hostel in El Nido, Palawan

The Hostel is set right on a stunning beach, just outside of El Nido town. The crowd is young, vibrant, and interesting. And this atmosphere certainly carries over to the tours.

Unlike most El Nido island hopping boats, the hostel’s boats are occupied only by people who have booked directly with Outpost Beach Hostel, which means the typical hostel crowd. All the passengers are laid-back backpackers.

There aren’t any families or older couples on board. This creates a really cool atmosphere for enthusiastic, adventurous travellers and makes for plenty of great conversation. We couldn’t have asked for more!

Click here to book your stay at Outpost Beach Hostel (you can book the boat tours once there!)

Making friends on one of the Outpost Beach Hostel island hopping tours of El Nido

The Outpost Hostel’s El Nido Tours

Outpost Beach Hostel only offers two tours which they alternate between on a daily basis. One day is a combination of tours A and B and the next day is a combination of tours C and D.

These tours can be organised with the hostel directly when you arrive. The combo tours are great because they each blend a popular tour with a less popular tour, allowing you to get the best of both worlds.

They stop by at most of the main highlights of the standard tours. But they do so in the opposite direction – for the sake of avoiding the crowds. It’s a simple trick that makes a world of difference.

Docking in the beautiful clear water of the islands around El Nido

We genuinely felt like we were visiting private beaches most of the time. Both of the hostel’s island hopping tours are the usual all-inclusive fare, each stopping for lunch along the way.

And so far as lunches go, the one they offer is pretty amazing. They cooked up some delicious barbecued fish which we ate on the beach. And there’s free-flowing rum on the cruise back at sunset!

A lovely grilled fish lunch served on the beach during our island hopping days

The tours are a fixed price of 1,500 pesos per person. Just a little more expensive than each of the classic tours (which go for around 1,300 pesos on average).

But each of the combo tours offers highlights from two classic tours, so they could be seen as more affordable.

Each of the combo tours offers a unique experience, and I’m really happy we ended up doing both. Here’s a breakdown of each tour, with some more detailed information on my favourite stops.

Click here to book your stay at Outpost Beach Hostel!

Grilled fish and pork buffet lunches on the beach… I could get used to this!

El Nido Tour A and B Combo

The stops include:

– Pinagbuyutan Island

– Snake island

– Pupolcan island

– Entalula island

– Seven commandos beach

Pinagbuyutan Island

A narrow strip of white sand and coconut trees line the shores of Panagbuyutan, with rugged rocky cliffs towering up above. It’s an impressively dramatic island that juts boldly out of the sea.

The main destination here is Ipil beach, where visitors can relax, swim, and explore. There’s a distinctly desert island type atmosphere, with very little evidence of human presence.

And being a Tour B stop, it’s not particularly popular, meaning it’s usually really quiet. It’s worth venturing beyond the beach if time allows. There are a bunch of little secret coves and pockets tucked away.

Snorkelling with millions of fish during our boat trip in El Nido

Snake Island, El Nido

Vigan Island, or as it’s more commonly known, Snake Island, is a tiny island just off of mainland Palawan.

It earned the name Snake Island thanks to the long, winding sandbar that connects it to the mainland (not for actual snakes – you can relax).

The sandbar is usually covered in roughly half a meter of water. Most visitors spend their time walking through the water and soaking up the breathtaking scenery.

There is also a little viewpoint from which you can see the sand bar from above.

The view of the sandbar of Snake Island from the viewpoint

Entalula Beach

Entalula Beach is a textbook paradise. The water is impossibly clear, the sand is dazzlingly white, and the rock formations are truly stunning.

It’s almost entirely undisturbed wilderness, with a series of tiny bays and coves to explore. Each one peppered with tropical vegetation.

A stop here will likely entail a lot of swimming and splashing in the warm waters, relaxing on the pristine beach, and admiring the unreal natural beauty.

As a tour B stop, it’s usually pretty quiet, so there won’t be hoards of tourists to detract from the magic.

Enjoying those island hopping days in El Nido, Palawan, shot with a GoPro dome to get the 50/50 over/under effect

Seven Commandos Beach

Seven Commandos Beach is a little bigger and more popular than many of the others. So while there are usually quite a few other people, the beach is big enough to share.

It remains almost entirely undeveloped, with the exception of a few huts and shelters. The palm-lined beachfront is a prime spot to relax and have a few dips in the water.

It’s also a popular spot to do a bit of snorkelling. You may even spot a sea turtle or two while exploring the beach’s underwater world.

Drone shot of Seven Commandos Beach by my friend @solarpoweredblonde

El Nido Tour C and D Combo  

– Paradise beach

– Bukal Island

– Pasandigan beach

– Cadlao Lagoon

– Helicopter Island

Here are some of the best bits in detail.

Paradise Beach

Paradise Beach is certainly one of the lesser-known gems of El Nido. It’s a stop on Tour D, so it’s often less busy than the better-known islands.

The beach certainly lives up to its name, with a small white-sand shorefront, palm trees, and crystal waters. While there isn’t much to do other than admire it, hang out, and swim, it’s a great little beach with a charming remote-island vibe.

Island hopping in El Nido, Philippines

Pasandigan Beach

It might not be called Paradise Beach but Pasandigan Beach comes second to none when it comes to natural beauty. Fine white sand, clear turquoise water, palm trees lining the edge of it and sheer cliffs in the backdrop.

Even if you may soon get used to these beautiful scenarios while island hopping in the Philippines, trust me when I say it never gets less impressive. This is a fun beach for chilling, tanning and swimming.

Drone shot by my friend @solarpoweredblonde of one of the beaches during our island hopping tour in El Nido

Helicopter Island, El Nido

As a Tour C stop, Helicopter Island is one of the most popular in El Nido and can be busier than other stops. But there’s a good amount of space, so it doesn’t feel overly crowded.

Believe it or not, the island actually resembles a helicopter from certain aerial angles. Hence the rather obscure name. It’s a great place to relax and swim, but it also offers some fantastic snorkelling.

The waters by the shore are home to a stunning variety of underwater life. So be sure to put on a mask and dive under the surface for an otherworldly experience.

Cruising towards Helicopter Island… can you see the helicopter?

Playing on the beach of Helicopter Island

Cadlao Lagoon

Cadlao Lagoon is the only lagoon that the Outpost Beach Hostel tours visit. The standard island hopping tours go to more famous lagoons, which ultimately are always incredibly busy.

During the tour C and D combo we visited Cadlao Lagoon which was a perfect in between experience.

We still got to see the stunning scenery of the clear turquoise water surrounded by the steep limestone cliffs, with only a few other boats around.

Trees and dramatic rock formations hang over turquoise waters at Cadlao Lagoon. It’s a little pocket of heaven on Tour D that immerses you fully in an incredible landscape.

The rocky walls that surround it are sheer, with plants growing from the cracks. And the water is perfect for a swim.

Here the hostel boat put some kayaks in the water for us to explore the lagoon with. You should also grab a mask and snorkel and swim close to the cliffs, the underwater views are so different from those of a beach!

Kayaking in El Nido

The Classic El Nido, Palawan tours attractions

While the hostel’s tours hit most of the top attractions, there are a few that they miss out. The following are some of the best attractions that are offered on the classic tours.

The El Nido lagoons on Tour A

The main element that’s lacking in Outpost Hostel’s tours is a focus on lagoons . They revolve more around the beaches, which are great. But there are some amazing lagoon stops on Tour A which the hotel leaves out.

El Nido is famous for its stunning lagoons, with Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon being two of the most popular. They’re basically isolated little pockets of seawater, surrounded by stunning cliff faces, vegetation, and rock formations.

The lagoons are almost the opposite of an island; water surrounded by land rather than the other way around. So they can be a refreshing change.

The tour boats tend to be too big to access the lagoons, due to shallow sections and small entrances. So you can usually rent a kayak to explore them or brave the waters and opt to swim.

Island hopping in El Nido

The caves on Tour B

The caves of El Nido may not have the same tropical charm as its beaches and lagoons. But they certainly make for an interesting and memorable experience.

Cathedral Cave and Cudugnon Cave are two of the most popular, both of which can be explored on tour B. Cudugnon Cave is accessed by climbing through a small hole in a cliff face.

Once inside, it opens up to reveal steep, jagged ceiling and rocky walls. There are holes overhead, pouring in golden sunlight and creating an ethereal vibe.

Cathedral Cave is larger and less closed off. And it’s a pretty amazing space. The boat anchors nearby and you can swim or kayak inside.

Some of the fish you can see when island hopping tours in El Nido

Where to stay in El Nido

As you may have guessed from this post I stayed at Outpost Beach Hostel , and I loved it. Besides the epic island hopping tours, Outpost is possibly one of the best hostels I’ve ever stayed at.

The hostel itself is very cool, located right on the beach with spacious communal areas. They have a great restaurant and bar, with fun social events on every night.

They also have a 10:30PM curfew time so you can get drunk and socialise, but if you want to go to bed early you don’t have to cope with loud party travellers.

Click here to see the latest prices and availability at Outpost Beach Hostel!

Sunset views from Outpost Beach Hostel in El Nido

The dorms all have aircon, with big and spacious beds and big drawers under the bunkbeds to lock up your belongings.

If you don’t want to stay in a hostel there are a few guest houses and boutique hotels next to it along the beach, where you can get a private room.

That way you can have your own room but still go to Outpost in evenings, bond with the hostel crowd and join their island hopping tours.

However Outpost is around a 5-minute tuk-tuk journey out of El Nido town centre. If you prefer to be central a couple good options are either El Nido Garden Resort or El Nido Beach Hotel .

Click here to see other accommodation options in El Nido!

Chilling on the beach at Pinagbuyutan Island during our tour A&B combo in El Nido

Final Thoughts about island hopping in El Nido

The island hopping tours that are available in El Nido offer a range of fantastic experiences to suit a variety of tastes and preferences. Outpost Hostel’s tours are a great option, but everyone’s different, and some may choose to stick with the standard tours.

If the classic tours sound more appealing to you, you can book them ahead of time online. I’ve listed them below with a recap.

Tour A – The most popular one that hits all the main highlights, but also the busiest one

Tour B – Goes off the beaten track to spots without as many crowds

Tour C – Great snorkelling and caves, second most popular and contender with tour A for the title of best tour in El Nido

Tour D – Visits the hidden gems the other tours don’t go to.

This is also a good option for those who want to have everything booked and sorted before travelling.

The incredibly turquoise water of El Nido

Whichever tours you choose, you’re bound to have an unforgettable adventure! Just be sure to pack wisely for your trip .

Island hopping in El Nido was one of the most magical things I’ve experienced. We went island hopping also in Siargao and in Coron , but the boat trips in El Nido were simply way more fun.

With so many incredible sights, perfect-temperature water, amazing island vibes, and wonderful weather, the area is nothing short of paradise.

I hope you find this El Nido island hopping guide useful in deciding what tour to do, and in planning your own time in El Nido!

Looking for more Philippines travel tips? Check out these guides!

• Swim with the sardine run & turtles in Moalbol
• A perfect Cebu Island 5-day itinerary
• Canyoneering in Kawasan Falls, Cebu – the ultimate guide
• Guide to hiking the highest peak in Cebu Island

Enjoyed reading my guide to island hopping in El Nido, Philippines? Pin it!

This World Traveled

Traveling the world one place at a time.

• Faroe Islands
• Netherlands
• Philippines
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Travel Gear

El Nido Island Hopping Tours: A Complete Guide to Tours A Thru D

January 14, 2020 · In: Asia , Destinations , Philippines , Travel Guides

This is a complete guide to the El Nido Island Hopping Tours with everything you’ll need to know before you go!  El Nido in Palawan makes it to the top of the list as one of the most beautiful places in the world. A coveted spot which is well earned. With its numerous white sand beaches, small islands, crystal clear waters and towering limestone cliffs, it’s no wonder visitors come here from all over the world.  

Planning your trip to El Nido can be a bit overwhelming. Starting with how to get there all the way to deciding which tours to take, your head might be spinning before you even arrive.  

No matter which tour you decide to join, you’ll have an incredible time and see some of the most beautiful spots around Bacuit Bay.   I recommend spending at least 2-3 days in El Nido so that you have time to enjoy sailing around to the best spots on an island hopping tour and also visit some of the best beaches on the island.   

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you use these links to purchase a product or service I will receive a small compensation at no additional cost to you. Everything I recommend are products or services that I personally use and have been essential for me as a travel blogger. 

Traveling to the Philippines?  Don’t leave home without getting travel insurance! You never know when something could go wrong and you’ll definitely want to be covered by insurance! Click HERE to get a quote!

LIKE THIS POST? pin it for LATER

Table of Contents

How to Choose the Right El Nido Island Hopping Tour

In El Nido they have broken down the sights in Bacuit Bay into 4 different tours. While in the past you were able to mix and match on a private tour, it seems that the rules have changed. We asked around a dozen or more tour companies and only found one that would allow us to combine spots from two different tours.

This company is called Island Seeker Travel and Tours. Their contact no. is 09392002395 or 09076362283. Their email is [email protected] and Facebook contact is Jhay Ar Andaya.

The majority of the tours will start at 9:30AM and end at 4:30PM. This of course can vary depending on if they have to wait for people who are running late. Our private tour left around 9AM and our group tour left at 10AM.  

Once you arrive in El Nido you will see that many of the tour operators will advertise that Tour A and Tour C are the two most popular tours. Tour B is the third most popular with Tour D being the least popular. Keep this in mind when booking as it’s a guarantee that the tours for A & C will most likely be completely full while B & D could potentially have less people.  

To be honest we actually enjoyed some of the stops from Tour B the most! Luckily, we were able to customize our private tour and select stops from Tour B & Tour C. This is the best way to do it and allows you to see more if you have limited time in El Nido. If you only have one day available to do a tour in Bacuit Bay this is the way to go!

However, if a private tour isn’t in your Philippines budget I recommend you take at least 2 different group tours over a span of two to three days in El Nido.  

» must read: The top things to do in El Nido

The 4 island hopping tours to take in el nido.

There are four different tour routes that are offered on an El Nido island hopping tour which will cover all of the top spots around Bacuit Bay.

7 Commandos Beach

A Snorkeling Spot

Secret Lagoon

Shimizu Island

The group tour price for Tour A is 1,200 PHP ($23.41 USD). Additionally you will have to pay a 200 PHP ($4) environmental fee and a 200 PHP ($4 USD) entrance fee to the Big Lagoon. The total price of this tour will cost around 1,600 PHP ($31.41 USD).

2019 UPDATE FOR TOUR A: As of 2019 the government has changed tour A to no longer include both the big and small lagoon. Therefore if you want to do the small lagoon you will have to do it on Tour D.

Pinagbuyutan Island

Cudugnon Cave

Entalula Island

Cathedral Cave

Snake Island

The group tour price for Tour B is 1,300 PHP ($25.36 USD).  Additionally you will have to pay 200 PHP ($4 USD) for the environmental fee equalling a total price of around 1,500 PHP ($29.36 USD).

Hidden Beach

Helicopter Island

Secret Beach

Matinloc Shrine

Tapiotan Island

The group tour price for Tour C is 1,400 PHP ($27.31 USD) plus the 200 PHP ($4 USD) environmental fee. The total price is around 1,600 PHP ($31.41 USD).

Small Lagoon

Paradise Beach

NatNat Beach

Serenity Beach

The group tour price for Tour D is 1,200 PHP ($23.41 USD) plus the 200 PHP ($4 USD) environmental fee and a 200 PHP ($4 USD) entrance fee to the Big Lagoon. The total price is around 1,600 PHP ($31.41 USD).

Where to Book Your El Nido Island Hopping Tour

There are so many companies in El Nido town that offer the same tours at the same prices. It seems to be pretty regulated as you’ll see the same boards posted up at each tour company. However, pop in and start talking with them and most likely they will offer you a discount of a few 100 Philippine Pesos off. For Tour A and C they might waive the entrance fee of 200 PHP ($4 USD) to the Big or Small Lagoon.

The group tours take about 15-18 people on each boat and they will collect people from different tour companies to fill up a boat. So even if the company you book with only have 4 people signed up, expect that the boat will be full the day of the trip. We heard from some other that Art Cafe only fills their boats with people who sign up through their company so you may get a boat that isn’t packed. However, their group trips are more expensive than anywhere else and you can’t guarantee you won’t have a full boat anyways.  

Also, most of the tour agencies stay open until around 10 PM and you can book your trip for the next day even if it’s super last minute. We spoke to a few agencies and they said that you could even book the morning of if you arrived around 8 AM.  

If you are want to skip the hassle of walking all over town looking for a deal then you can easily make arrangements prior to your arrival. You can book your tour online with a reputable company and just show your ticket the day of the tour!

» Related Post: How to Get to El Nido in Palawan: Everything You Need to Know

What to pack on your boat tour in el nido.

Swimsuit – This is a must! You’re absolutely going to want to jump into the warm, crystal clear waters of the Philippines so make sure to pack your swimming suit!

Towel –  As most tour operators will not supply a towel you will need to bring your own. If you don’t have one with you then bring it from your hotel.

Water shoes or flip flops – There will be a few spots where you will have to walk from the boat to the beach due to the shallow water. At some of the beaches there can be some corals and it’s best to protect your feet by wearing either water shoes or flip flops.   

Sunscreen – Just like your swimsuit, this is an absolute must! You will be out on the boat all day and although there is some shade you’ll want to make sure you slather on the sunscreen. Be sure that your sun lotion is oxybenzone free and reef safe. This way you can avoid getting burned and help save the ocean! Sunscreens with the main ingredient of zinc oxide is your best bet.

Hat – Another great way to protect your face from the harmful sun rays is by wearing a hat. If you didn’t bring one with you there are shops in town selling them!

Sunglasses  – Make sure to bring sunglasses or some kind of eye protection!

Extra snacks  – You will be provided lunch on the boat but if you get hungry and love to snack then I would recommend bringing something with you. There are some markets in town, fresh fruit stands and local bakeries that you can get some snacks from.  

Tip: If you are going to the local bakery I recommend not buying any of the super sweet items. Ants are very common in the Philippines and they love all the sweets. The basic bread and rolls are typically a safe bet. I definitely bit into a sweet roll that was crawling with ants and didn’t even notice it right away. Don’t make my mistake!

Bring Cash – At a few of the stops you’ll see locals paddling around in their small canoes selling fresh coconuts, snacks, soft drinks and beer. If you want to purchase anything while out for the day you will need to pack some cash!

Electronics – One of the most important things to bring on your El Nido island hopping tour is something to take photos with! You’ll definitely want to be able to capture all the beauty of the islands so be sure to pack your camera!

» Must Read: Travel Photography Gear Guide: The Ultimate List

Important Information About El Nido

• There is absolutely no smoking allowed on any of the boat trips or within Bacuit Bay. In fact, there are many places in town and all around the Philippines that ban smoking. This includes beaches, hikes and many public areas.  
• There are no plastic bottles allowed on the boat tours. The tour company will provide a large jug of filtered water and reusable cups. This is not the same in Coron however. If you book a private tour in Coron you will be responsible for purchasing and bringing your own water and food so keep that in mind.  
• In the Philippines you will find many filtered water jugs at restaurants and guesthouses. Here you can easily fill up your reusable water bottle as needed! This is a great thing to consider if you want to reduce your single use plastic usage.  
• There is an environmental tax of 200 PHP ($4 USD) per person for any tour in Bacuit Bay. The tax fee is good for 10 days so you should only have to pay it once. This must be payed by any tourist entering Bacuit Bay whether by group or private tour and by kayak.
• You will be charged an additional entrance fee of 200 PHP ($4 USD) to both the Big and Small lagoon. You will have to pay this fee when you purchase your tour and some companies might waive this fee as a “discount.”  
• Be sure to check if snorkeling gear or usage of a kayak is included or not. Most likely it will not be included or you will have to share one kayak between the entire boat.

When is the Best Time of Year to Go to El Nido?

El Nido and the island of Palawan has two main seasons. The dry season is from mid-November to May and the rainy season is from June to early November. However, during my time there in October I only experienced one day where it rained for about 2 hours. So ultimately you just never quite know what the weather will really be like.

like this post? pin it for later

WHAT CAMERA GEAR DO I USE?

» Click HERE for the Full Travel Photography Gear Guide to see what’s in my camera bag!

• Main Camera: Sony A7III
• Wide angle lens: Sony G Master 16-35mm f/2.8
• Zoom lens: Sony 24-240mm f/3.5-6.3
• Prime lens: Sony 85mm f/1.8
• Secondary Camera: Canon 6D Mark II
• Canon wide angle lens: Canon EF 17-40mm f/4L
• Canon lens: Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L
• Underwater camera: Leica X-U
• Camera with gimbal: DJI Osmo Pocket & Underwater Housing
• Drone: DJI Mavic Pro 2
• Camera Bag: Polar Pro Drone Trekker
• External Hard Drive: LaCie 2 TB rugged mini external hard drive

You’ll Also Love

February 12, 2020 at 2:28 pm

your photos are amazing! the water looks so blue and beautiful. thanks for sharing!

February 12, 2020 at 5:33 pm

Thanks girl!! We couldn’t believe the color of the water either!

February 12, 2020 at 2:39 pm

I did Tour C when I was in El Nido and looking through all of your incredible photos, made me think of the great time I’ve had and want to go back ASAP!

February 12, 2020 at 5:34 pm

Oh I can imagine!! Tour B & C were probably our favorites especially since we did it as a private tour!

I love island hopping tours and from your beautiful photos it looks like El Nido lives up to the best of the best 🙂

So do I and El Nido definitely did! It was one of our favorite parts of the Philippines!

February 12, 2020 at 2:41 pm

Ahhhh girl you’re killing me – The Philippines have been on my list since last year and I was going this year, but things just didn’t work out. It looks SO pretty!! Hopefully next year though. 🙂

February 12, 2020 at 5:35 pm

Oh I’m so bummed that you haven’t made it there yet but I know you will one day! And you will love it when you finally get to go!

February 13, 2020 at 2:33 am

I would love to go to El Nido, I have heard so many great things about it and your post is confirming all the good things. It looks beautiful!

February 17, 2020 at 9:01 am

Thank you so much Ashley! It is definitely a beautiful destination and you should make sure to visit one day!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall in East Java: The Most Powerful Waterfall in Indonesia

Explore the blog.

• Destinations
• Photography

Find a Post

• Privacy Policy
• Disclosure Policy

Copyright © 2024 This World Traveled · Theme by 17th Avenue

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

How to Book an El Nido Island Hopping Tour A

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

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

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

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

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

See our popular El Nido Island Hopping Tours

El nido island hopping tour to the best lagoons & pristine beaches with lunch, el nido island hopping tour to the best beaches, palawan el nido shared island hopping tour d with lunch & transfers | cadlao lagoon, paradise beach.

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

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

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

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

See our popular El Nido Transfers

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

See our popular El Nido Tours and Activities

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

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

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

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

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

See our popular El Nido Vacation Packages

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See our popular Coron to El Nido Palawan Tour Packages

Ultimate 2-week beach & adventure holiday package to the best islands from manila city, 2-week stunning beaches tour package to palawan island, educational 3-day el nido to coron palawan snorkeling package with camping, meals, gear.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Experience the Best of El Nido with Island Hopping Tour A

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

Private Transfer Between Puerto Princesa Airport & Any Hotel in El Nido Town

Shared puerto princesa airport to or from el nido town van transfer service, popular articles.

Best Palawan Guide: Top Tours, Where to Stay, How to Get Around

20 Most Beautiful Sandbars in the Philippines: White Sand, Longest, Vanishing

11 Best Santorini-Like Resorts in the Philippines: Near Manila, Cebu, Palawan, Vigan

15 Best Tropical Bali-Like Resorts in the Philippines: Near Manila, Siargao, Cebu, Bohol

10 Best Treehouse Resorts in the Philippines for a Scenic Getaway at Mountains, Beaches & Rivers

Other interesting articles.

11 Best Philippine Christmas Holiday Destinations

Where to Go for Holy Week in the Philippines: Visita Iglesia Churches, Pilgrimage Sites, Beaches & Mountains

Top 13 Boracay Inland Attractions & Activities aside from White Beach

Download the Philippines’ biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add the Philippines’ biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.

Top things to do in the Philippines

Discover all the adventures you can experience in the Philippines

Philippines Tour Packages

Boracay Island

Bohol Island

Cebu Island

Coron Palawan

El Nido Palawan

Siargao Island

Iloilo City and Nearby

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

05/07/2022 by Kristin Addis 8 Comments

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

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

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

Table of Contents

If You Are Coming From Coron:

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

The Island Hopping Tours

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cost:  1200 PHP for the group tour

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

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

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

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

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

Cost:  1300 PHP for the group tour

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

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

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

Cost:  1400 PHP

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

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

Cost:  1200 PHP

Are Private or Group Tours Best?

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

Pros of doing a private tour:

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

Cons of doing a private tour:

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

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

Where to Book:

First Name:

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

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

Tour A , Tour B , Tour C .

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

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

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

Happy island hopping!!

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

About Kristin Addis

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

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

 subscribe to our newsletter

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

05/10/2019 at 6:37 am

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

Kristin says

05/10/2019 at 9:07 am

Yes basically, just don’t touch anything!

Diny Slamet says

07/18/2019 at 7:07 am

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

07/18/2019 at 12:01 pm

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

Dierin says

07/28/2019 at 11:07 am

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

08/01/2019 at 2:49 am

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

John Eric Sagun says

11/09/2019 at 6:24 am

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

11/10/2019 at 11:37 am

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

Not Another Backpacker

El Nido Island Hopping: Tour Packages + Tips

The islands around El Nido in Palawan are known for their pristine white sand beaches, jagged limestone cliffs, and crystal clear water. Therefore, the El Nido island hopping tours are one of the most popular activities in the Philippines.

Having lived in El Nido for over a year myself, I have seen pretty much everything and beyond (most places several times). So, I can confirm that island hopping in El Nido is truly stunning and should be an absolute priority on your vacation in Palawan !

There are four tours available (A, B, C, D) featuring different itineraries and hitting the best spots in El Nido’s bay (also known as “Bacuit Bay”):

The El Nido Island Hopping Tour A is known as the “lagoon tour”, as it takes you to the spectacular lagoons in the area. Thus, it’s one of the most popular tours in El Nido! However, if you feel adventurous, you should jump on Tour B, which features a large cave to climb around in, while Tour C takes you to the most secretive beaches in the bay. And last but not least, Tour D visits the best places on Cadlao – the largest island in the bay.

Keep in mind, the program of the El Nido island tours has changed numerous times over the past years. To make sure you’ll have the best experience possible, I decided to provide you with updated information and introduce you to my favorite spots in Bacuit Bay!

Note: Your trust is important to me. Therefore, I’d like to point out that this article contains referral links (also known as affiliate links). This means I get a small commission if you buy a product after clicking on one of the corresponding links marked with a *. There are no extra costs for you, but it helps me keep this blog ad-free. Thank you!

El Nido Island Hopping Tour Packages

As mentioned above, there are four different El Nido tours you can book to explore the bay. Here, you’ll find a quick overview of what you can expect from each one!

El Nido Island Hopping Tour A

El Nido Tour A is one of the most popular island hopping tours in El Nido , as it takes you to the famous lagoons of Bacuit Bay. When booking a tour, you’ll have to decide, whether you want to see Small Lagoon or Big Lagoon, as you can only visit one of the two per tour. But don’t worry: I guarantee, you’ll have a good time no matter which lagoon you choose!

This is what you’ll see on El Nido Tour A:

• Big Lagoon OR Small Lagoon: Both lagoons feature an entrance with incredibly clear water and are surrounded by beautiful rock formations. I have visited both places numerous times and can confirm that both lagoons are absolutely stunning – they’re worth the hype! To explore the lagoons thoroughly, I’d recommend renting a kayak (you can do this when booking the tour).
• Secret Lagoon: This is the smallest lagoon in Bacuit Bay. To get inside, you’ll have to climb through a narrow hole in a rock, where you’ll find a small pool of water enclosed by high limestone cliffs. Pretty epic, right?
• Shimizu Island: In my opinion, Shimizu is one of the best islands in El Nido, as it features a beautiful beach to relax at and a nice snorkeling spot nearby!
• 7 Commandos Beach: If you enjoy swimming in deep and perfectly clear water, 7 Commandos Beach is just the ticket! There’s also a resort and a beach bar, where you can get a quick refreshment during your island hopping tour!

My personal highlight of El Nido Tour A: Small Lagoon / Big Lagoon

El Nido Island Hopping Tour B

Are you looking for an adventurous island hopping tour in El Nido with lots of activities? Then you should have a closer look at El Nido Tour B ! On this tour, you’ll not only get to visit beaches but also a cave, a sandbank, and a great snorkeling spot!

This is what the itinerary of El Nido Tour B looks like:

• Snake Island: Snake Island describes an island (Vagin Island) connected to a long sandbank. From a bird’s eye view, the sandbank resembles the shape of a snake – thus the name. You can either relax at the beautiful, long beach or hike up to a viewpoint on Vagin island!
• Entalula Beach: This beach provides the perfect setting for your holiday pictures with incredibly blue water, a small lovely beach, and spectacular rock formations in the background!
• Cudugnon Cave: If you don’t like sitting in the sun all day, you’ll enjoy exploring Cudugnon Cave. To get there, you’ll have to climb through a narrow entrance. Then, you’ll be greeted with high limestone cliffs that you can climb around in. For this reason, Tour B is also often being referred to as “the cave tour”.
• Snorkeling site: Lastly, your tour guide will pick one of the many snorkeling areas, where you can explore the great underwater world El Nido has to offer!

My personal highlight of Tour B: Snake Island

El Nido Island Hopping Tour C

You’re a beach lover and can’t get enough of white sand and turquoise-blue water? If this you, you should hop on the El Nido Island Hopping Tour C , which will bring you to the most secluded beaches in El Nido !

This is what you’ll be treated with on Tour C:

• Helicopter Island: Helicopter Island is one of the most popular places in Bacuit Bay. Being shaped like a helicopter, this piece of land amazes visitors with a jungle-like setting and a beautiful white-sand beach!
• Matinloc Shrine: Afterwards, you’ll have a quick stop at Matinloc Shrine, which was built in the 80s and has been abandoned since. While it may be worth seeing (I’ve actually never entered and just drove by), I’d say the other stops on this tour are much more spectacular (just being honest ;))!
• Secret Beach: Besides the lagoons, Secret Beach is my absolute favorite spot in El Nido Bay and even one of my favorite beaches in all of Palawan ! To get there, you’ll have to swim through a small tunnel in a wall of limestone. Inside, you’ll find a beautifully secluded beach and a small snorkeling area!
• Star Beach: Technically, you will not visit Star Beach, as it’s now private and tourists are not allowed to enter anymore. Instead, your boat captain will take you to a snorkeling reef nearby. In my opinion, this is one of the best snorkeling spots in El Nido, as you won’t only get to see beautiful fish like Moorish Idols and Butterfly Fish but also aquatic creatures like Nudibranchia and Starfish.
• Hidden Beach: I’m sure you’ll have a great time at Hidden Beach. Being located behind a small island, this beach is pretty out of sight, which explains the name. Here, you’ll find green-blue water, and I’ve even spotted some monkeys on the beach once!

My personal highlight of El Nido Tour C: Secret Beach

El Nido Island Hopping Tour D

Generally speaking, El Nido Tour D is the least visited island hopping tour, which means it’s a great option to avoid crowds while exploring the bay. On this tour, you’ll get to explore Cadlao Island thoroughly – the largest island in the bay!

I’m sure you’ll have a blast on Tour D, as you’ll visit these beautiful places:

• Ipil Beach: Ipil Beach is actually not located on Cadlao Island but on the mainland of El Nido. That being said, it can only be reached by boat or kayak. The beach offers clear water to swim in and a nice view of the bay!
• Cadlao Lagoon: This is probably the most underrated lagoon in El Nido but just as beautiful! Inside, you’ll find perfectly blue water, a small, picturesque beach, and a great snorkeling spot – what more could you ask for?!
• Pasandigan Beach: The highlight of this beach is Pasandigan Cave. You can swim inside the majestic limestone, where you can bathe in a mixture of fresh and saltwater. Thus, it’s a great spot if you feel like hiding from the sun and cooling down!
• Paradise Beach: Paradise Beach truly lives up to its name! Here, you’ll find gorgeous limestone formations covered in lush plants and a great beach with clear and warm water. Hence, it’s a true paradise!
• Nat Nat Beach: Nat Nat Beach on Cadlao Island is known for its amazing snorkeling area, where you can find plenty of fish and corals. Parrotfish, Angelfish, and Pufferfish are just a few examples of what you can discover!
• Bukal Beach: This beach is situated on a small island in front of Cadlao, and it’s just about 100 meters away from its big neighbor. From here, you’ll have a beautiful view of the stunning limestone formations of Cadlao and a nice little beach to relax at!

My personal highlight on El Nido Tour D: Cadlao Lagoon

Where to Book an Island Hopping El Nido Tour?

Island Hopping in El Nido is one of the best things to do in Palawan , and thousands of travelers visit the surrounding islands each year (at least, when there’s no pandemic around…). Considering this, it’s no surprise that you can book boat tours almost anywhere in town.

I’d recommend booking the tour once you arrive in El Nido, as it’s usually cheaper to book in person than online, as online agencies typically charge a small service fee on top of the regular price. However, if you want to book your El Nido boat tour ahead of time, I recommend booking through GetYourGuide* .

Otherwise, you can ask the boatmen in town directly or book through a local tour agency, e.g. at Art Café or Bellitta Tours .

What Are the Rates for Island Hopping in El Nido?

The prices for the El Nido tours depend on what package you choose and if you need to pay for any extra costs.

If it’s your first tour within a 10-day period, you’ll have to pay a 200 PHP (appr. 4 USD) EDTF fee (Eco-Tourism Development Fee) on top of the regular price. However, if you book a second tour during this time, you don’t need to pay again!

Plus, if you hop on Tour A, you’ll also be charged an extra 200 PHP (appr. 4 USD) lagoon fee and a 250 PHP (appr. 5 USD) fee for the kayak (if you decide to take one), whereas you have to expect a 100 PHP (appr. 2 USD) entrance fee if you visit the shrine on Tour C.

Here, you’ll find a quick breakdown of the island hopping rates (costs are calculated per head):

FYI: It’s also good to note that you should not try to negotiate! Although negotiating is a common practice in the Philippines , the prices for the El Nido tour packages (group tours) are set by the Department of Tourism, and boatmen who sell the group tours for less can lose their boat license if they get caught! So, don’t risk your tour guide’s career by asking for a lower price!

However, this does not apply to private tours (if you book a private El Nido tour, you’ll have the entire boat for yourself). In this case, prices can vary!

Helpful Tips for Your Island Hopping Tour in El Nido

If you book an island tour in El Nido, you should know a few things:

• Lunch: Most of the time, lunch is included in the El Nido tour packages. However, at the moment, not all boats offer food due to the pandemic. Hence, you should make sure to ask your boat captain or booking agency beforehand whether lunch is included or whether you must bring food yourself!
• Snorkels: Also, ask your tour agency or boat captain whether there will be snorkels on board and if they are free of charge or cost extra. It would be a shame if you missed out on the snorkeling in El Nido because of miscommunication!
• Duration: Typically, the El Nido boat trips start at 9 am at the pier and end at 5 pm.
• Fees: Ask your boatman or tour agency for hidden fees and make sure they name you the total price including EDTF and potentially a lagoon, shrine, and/ or kayak fee! Note, EDTF is valid for 10 consecutive days. So, if you do several island hopping tours within 10 days you only have to pay EDTF once!
• Paperwork: Bring your ID when booking your El Nido island tour. Since the pandemic started, IDs are required to book. However, you don’t need to bring them on board!
• When to book: It’s best to book your tour at least one day ahead of time, so your boatman/ tour agency has enough time to drop off your ID at the Department of Tourism.
• Pro-tip: If you’re traveling during peak season, you should ask your tour guides to do the island hopping tour in reverse order. This way, you won’t be at the same spots at the same time as all the other tourists, and you’ll be able to enjoy El Nido’s beauty without too many crowds!

As you can see, there are many beautiful places to see during your holiday in El Nido ! But don’t take my word for it and make sure to hop on at least one island-hopping tour to explore the beautiful islands, lagoons, and rock formations yourself. I guarantee that you’ll never forget this once-in-a-lifetime experience; the islands in El Nido are just a true paradise!

Overall, Tour A and Tour C are the most popular island hopping tour in El Nido; featuring stunning lagoons and tropical beaches. However, Tour B and Tour D are typically less crowded and a great alternative, if you want to avoid the crowds during peak season. Plus, you can’t really go wrong with any of the tours, as all are special in their own way!

If you’re traveling solo or with a partner, it’s best to book a group tour. This way, you’ll save money and get to know other travelers. However, if you are traveling with a group of people, you can rent a private tour in El Nido, which will give you the advantage of going at your own pace and can potentially be cheaper if you have a lot of people!

When going island hopping in El Nido, you should wear swimwear and a light outfit on top of it. Also, you’ll need plenty of sunscreen and sunglasses. If the weather forecast shows rain, you may also want to bring a rain poncho or a sarong to cover up with if you get cold!

Absolutely! El Nido has some of the best island hopping I’ve seen in the world and although it can get crowded, you’ll be amazed by the blue lagoons, white beaches, and many rock formations Bacuit Bay has to offer!

Helpful Travel Resources for Your Trip

Do you still need to book your trip? Here, I’ll show you what resources I use:

TRANSPORTATION

• Skyscanner *: I book (almost) all my flights through Skyscanner. This site scans the web for the best deals within the blink of an eye. Plus, it shows you prices for the whole month, which makes it easy to find the cheapest day to fly!
• 12GoAsia*: This site specializes in providing cheap tickets for planes, buses, and trains all over Asia!

ACCOMMODATION

• Agoda *: Agoda usually has the best prices for accommodation and offers unbeatable 24-hour flash deals!
• Booking*: Alternatively, you can also find good deals and a wide selection of hotels and guest houses on Booking.com.
• Hostelworld*: If you’re looking specifically for a hostel, you’ll be amazed by the variety of options Hostelworld has to offer!

You are reading: El Nido Island Hopping: Tour Packages + Tips

12 comments

Hi, Just wondering what the general state of travel is like in Philipinnes for backpacking at the moment due to COVID. We are looking to do a few islands and a little bit of jungle on the mainland but concerned about A) Tourist transport, boats, shuttles etc, B) Mask, Covid restrictions and general lockdowns and C) the general atmosphere for travellers now/October when we go. Would you recommend holding off a bit or have things trickled back to normal. anything to be aware of RE: covid travel

Thanks for reading my article! At the moment, I would only recommend visiting the Philippines if you’re fully vaccinated to avoid quarantine on arrival.

Domestic flights depart to different islands regularly (so you can fly to Palawan, Borocay, etc.). However, I can’t give you an exact answer on boat transfers, as I’m not in the Philippines at the moment (I left in December 2021). But my friends in the Philippines say that tourism is coming back and more and more travelers are visiting the islands again, so I think you should be fine!

When I was there, the rules for masks were very loose but this also can also vary from island to island. Overall, I would say that visiting the Philippines should not be a problem. It may even be a very good time to visit, as there are not as many tourists yet, and you will be able to enjoy the beauty of the islands without too many crowds. You can find more information about the latest travel requirements here: https://guidetothephilippines.ph/articles/ultimate-guides/philippines-travel-covid-19 .

With that being said, you should know that October is Typhoon season in the Philippines. So, if you only have a couple of weeks, I would recommend visiting another time (a good time to visit is usually between December and May-/ June).

I hope I could help and if you decide to go, have a good trip! 🙂

can we book at the pier?, since our arrival is uncertain?

Thanks for reaching out! Do you mean booking the tour in the morning at the pier when the boats depart? In this case, I’m not 100% sure but I think this is probably not an option, as there’s a new rule saying that all tour operators have to provide the Department of Tourism with a list of their passengers beforehand. This means, they have to visit the DOT-office in town the day before or early in the morning to drop off their paperwork incl. a list of their pessengers.

If you arrive in El Nido late at night and you want to join an island hopping tour the next day, I recommend booking online in advance.

If you arrive during the day, you can probably find someone to talk to at the pier or visit a travel agency, e.g. the one from Art Café to book your tour.

I hope I could help! If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to me again! 🙂

Do you have any contact details for a private tour?

Hello Erika,

I used to go island hopping with a certain crew in my neighborhood in El Nido, but unfortunately I don’t have their contact details anymore. However, this shouldn’t be a problem, as you can book a private boat tour through any travel agency in town!

If you want to book ahead of time, I recommend booking through El Nido Paradise . They offer private tours for up to 24 people and a private tour costs about 9000 PHP (appr. 170 USD) per boat (a little more or less depending on which tour you choose).

If you’re interested in a speed boat tour, you can book through Art Café or message me through my contact page, so I can e-mail you a contact for a speed boat.

I hope I could help! If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out to me again!

Great article! I love that you included the package prices as well. Such a beautiful place with such gorgeous blue green water.

Thanks for the great feedback!

Wow! it’s simply breathtaking! the Small Lagoon is literally the paradise on earth! I hope I can go someday! I definitely will save this!

Thanks for the feedback! Yes, I love Small Lagoon as well, it’s so peaceful and absolutely gorgeous! Definitely visit if you ever get to this part of the world!

These tours look amazing! It is so convenient you can book a tour to take you to all of these different locations so you can experience as much as possible.

Thank you! Yes, it’s really convenient and the best way to explore the bay! 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Sign up for our newsletter

Related Articles

El nido tour d review: exploring the best of cadlao island, el nido in palawan – everything you need to know for a successful vacation, el nido tour b review: caves, beaches & more, island hopping el nido tour a: itinerary + tips.

• January 2024
• December 2023
• February 2023
• January 2023
• December 2022
• November 2022
• October 2022
• September 2022
• August 2022
• September 2021
• August 2021

EL NIDO ISLAND HOPPING TOUR D

El Nido, a tropical wonderland, is home to breathtaking limestone formations, hidden lagoons, and pristine beaches. With Tour D, you can explore some of the most enchanting destinations in this paradise. Whether you prefer the camaraderie of a group tour or a more intimate experience on a private tour, El Nido offers it all.  

Cadlao Lagoon : Your adventure begins with a visit to Cadlao Lagoon, a serene and picturesque haven. Paddle through tranquil waters surrounded by lush greenery and towering limestone cliffs. This natural wonder is a true reflection of El Nido's beauty.

​ Small Lagoon : Explore the mesmerizing Small Lagoon, accessible only through a small opening. Here, you'll find a hidden gem of emerald waters and towering cliffs, offering an unforgettable kayaking experience.

Bukal Beach : Bukal Beach is a pristine and lesser-known spot where you can relax on the powdery white sands, take in the stunning views, and go for a refreshing swim.

Nat Nat Beach : Nat Nat Beach is a charming cove offering a tranquil escape from the world. This remote beach is perfect for some solitude, swimming, and beachcombing.

Paradise Beach : Conclude your journey at the aptly named Paradise Beach, where you can soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and truly appreciate the paradise that El Nido has to offer.

GROUP OR PRIVATE ISLAND HOPPING TOUR IN EL NIDO

Choose between a group tour to meet fellow adventurers and share experiences, or opt for a private tour for a more personalized exploration. Our knowledgeable guides will ensure your safety and a memorable experience.  El Nido's hidden treasures, as unveiled in Tour D, will leave you in awe. Join us on this remarkable adventure to create lasting memories and experience the natural beauty of El Nido, one of the Philippines' most captivating destinations. Don't miss the chance to explore these hidden paradises, making El Nido an unforgettable part of your travel story.

PRICES FOR ISLAND HOPPING TOURS IN EL NIDO

Choose your boat.

GROUP BOAT tour 1,800php .  Included: transfer to port, lunch, water. lagoon fee, environment fee. Exclusions : transfer from the harbor to the town, Snorkeling mask hire 100php, Fins 100php, Aqua shoes 100php, Kayak 150php.  Number of people on the boat: 18-22

PRIVATE BOAT tour 10,000php  for 2 people, additional 1000php each. Included: boat with crew and fuel, licensed guide, hotel (town) pick up and transfer to port, lunch, ice box, water, towels, lagoon and environmental fees, snorkelling masks, kayaks. Exclusions: transfer from harbour to town, fins 100php, aqua shoes 100php.

PREMIUM 2 DECKS OUTRIGGER YACHT     18,000php   for 2 people, 1500p extra for each person .  Included: boat with crew and fuel, licensed guide, hotel (town) pick up and transfer to port, lunch, ice box, water, towels, lagoon and environmental fees, snorkelling masks , kayaks. Exclusions: transfer from harbour to town, fins 100php, aqua shoes 100php.

SPEED BOAT 22,000php  for 2 people, 1500php additional for each one.  Included: boat with crew and fuel, licensed guide, hotel (town) pick up and transfer to port, lunch, ice box, water, towels, lagoon and environmental fees, snorkelling masks , kayaks. Exclusions: transfer from harbour to town, fins 100php, aqua shoes 100php.

CATAMARAN   40,000php  for 4 people, 10k php additional for each one.  Included: boat with crew and fuel, hotel (town) pick up and transfer to port, lunch, ice box, water and drinks,  lagoon and environmental fees, snorkelling masks , kayaks. Exclusions: transfer from harbour to town.

8.30-9.00am pick up group tours 9.00-9.40am start of group tours 3.30-4.30pm return to the port of Corong-Corong 7.45am pick up private tours * 8am start of private tours * 3pm return to the port of Corong-Corong *Private tours can be flexible in terms of time

ISLAND HOPPING EL NIDO TOUR A

ISLAND HOPPING EL NIDO TOUR B

ISLAND HOPPING EL NIDO TOUR C COMBINATION TOURS AB AC AD CD

EXPEPDITIONS PALAWAN

BOOK 1 DAY ISLAND HOPPING TOUR IN EL NIDO

Thank you! Manager will contact you as soon as it possible!

A travel & food blog

Honda Bay island hopping via SotoGrande Palawan

Puerto Princesa City is a pleasant layover before heading to other destinations in Palawan. While you’re here, one of the top tourist attractions to visit is the Honda Bay islands.

It is my second time here in Honda Bay, which I’ve visited prior to the pandemic . This year, I went on a Honda Bay tour c/o SotoGrande Palawan , the newest hotel resort in Puerto Princesa City.

SotoGrande Palawan is a good base for your island hopping tour since it is only 1 km away from Honda Bay wharf and the hotel can also offer you their tour services so you can enjoy the activity hassle-free. Alternately, you can also head to the wharf on your own and charter a boat.

Starfish Island

Luli island, cowrie island, book your stay at sotogrande palawan, what to read next:, exploring honda bay islands.

I was part of the media staying at SotoGrande Palawan for their grand opening this August 2023. After a filling breakfast at the hotel, we hopped on the van for a short ride to the wharf. From there, we visited the three islands in Honda Bay: Starfish Island, Luli Island, and Cowrie Island.

Our first stop is Starfish Island. As its name suggests, Starfish Island is known for its abundance of starfish that dot the sandy seabed. The shallow waters also make it a good spot for swimming and wading.

There were cottages for rest and picnicking and a market stall that sells fresh seafood, including different kinds of fish, mollusks, and even sea urchins. We didn’t get to see starfishes – according to the locals, they have moved to deeper parts of the sea.

We relaxed and took pictures at the island before heading to our next destination.

Luli Island, short for “lulubog, lilitaw,” is a sandbar that disappears during high tide and reappears during low tide. The island has seen developments since the last time I visited – there are now stilt cottages and hammocks set over the water, a perfect spot for your social media feed.

Aside from taking pictures of the sandbar, you can also snorkel here to see fishes and even taklobo (“giant clams”). You can fish feed if you’ve bring bread or other food.

My companions took to the sea to see the marine animals, while I stayed in one of the cottages to just soak up the setting (and also since it was raining). In my previous visit, I was not impressed with Luli Island and so to see it developed to offer more amenities was a nice surprise indeed.

Cowrie Island is one of the most developed and popular islands in Honda Bay, offering various amenities such as cottages, a restaurant that sells seafood and fresh fruits shakes, and watersports such as kayaking. It’s also a family-friendly spot, since the beach starts shallow, making it ideal for swimming with kids.

This is typically where most tourists spend the most time at. We stayed here the longest to enjoy a delicious boodle-style lunch with barbecue and various seafood, as well as fresh fruit shakes. Then we had a leisurely swim in the beach front.

We had an enjoyable tour of the Honda Bay islands. I expected huge crowds since it was a long weekend, but there were actually fewer people possible due to the fact that it was already the ber-months. Despite the gloomy weather at the time, we had a nice time exploring the islands, taking pictures, and going for a swim.

The tour service provided by SotoGrande Palawan Hotel was also top-notch. It was easy, hassle-free, and convenient — we only had to bring ourselves to enjoy Honda Bay.

You can book your stay at SotoGrande Palawan , which is located in close proximity (1 kilometer) away from Honda Bay wharf.

Book discounted rooms at SotoGrande Palawan here.

The hotel can also arrange a packaged tour to Honda Bay for you, which includes transport, boat tour, and lunch. Alternatively, you can also arrange the tour yourself by heading to the wharf and registering for the tour that you like best. Food and drinks can be brought at the islands, with meals available at both Starfish Island and Cowrie Island.

Here are tips when visiting Honda Bay:

• What to bring : Waterproof bag or drybag, sunscreen, snorkeling gears and/or fins, and cash in case you want to purchase additional drinks or snacks. You may also want to bring a towel or change of clothes.
• When to visit : Honda Bay can be visited all-year-round. The best time to visit Honda Bay is during the dry season, from November to May. The ber-months are considered the off-peak season, so you may encounter smaller crowds but also inclement or gloomy weather.

Honda Bay island hopping is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Puerto Princesa. Whether you’re sunbathing on a sandbar, sunbathing on a sandbar, or enjoying a picnic filled with seafood and local Palawan delicacies, Honda Bay is sure to leave you with fun memories.

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

Get discounts on your travels!

Enjoy discounts with KLOOK using our promo code: TARALETSANYWHEREKLOOK

Katherine Cortes is a long-time backpacker and a freelance writer/editor. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs!).

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .