El Nido, Palawan
Explore the GuideWhy Visit
El Nido is often hailed as one of the most beautiful places on Earth, and for good reason. Located at the northern tip of mainland Palawan, it is the gateway to the Bacuit Archipelago, a stunning collection of 45 islands and islets characterized by soaring limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and some of the whitest sand beaches in the world.
1. Surreal Limestone Landscapes
The most striking feature of El Nido is its “karst” topography. Towering black limestone cliffs rise vertically from the emerald-green water, creating a landscape that feels like a real-life fantasy novel. These cliffs hide “secret” beaches and lagoons that are only accessible by swimming through small crevices or kayaking through narrow openings, providing a sense of discovery that few other destinations can match.
2. World-Class Island Hopping
El Nido is the birthplace of the famous Tour A, B, C, and D system. Each tour offers a completely different vibe:
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Tour A takes you to the iconic Big and Small Lagoons.
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Tour C is famous for its “hidden” beaches and world-class snorkeling spots. Whether you want to kayak through mirror-like waters or snorkel in coral-rich basins, the variety of islands ensures you never see the same thing twice.
3. Pristine Beaches and Sunsets
While the lagoons are the stars, the mainland beaches are equally impressive. Nacpan Beach, with its 4-kilometer stretch of golden sand and coconut trees, is often ranked among the best beaches in the world. For sunset, Las Cabañas Beach offers a lively atmosphere with beach bars and a zipline that glides over the ocean as the sun dips below the horizon.
4. A Mix of Adventure and Luxury
El Nido caters to every type of traveler. You can find everything from social backpacker hostels in the bustling town center to ultra-exclusive private island resorts tucked away in the archipelago. It’s a place where you can spend your day roughing it on a boat and your evening enjoying a candlelit seafood dinner on the beach.
5. Rich Marine Biodiversity
As part of a protected marine reserve, El Nido’s waters are teeming with life. It is a sanctuary for sea turtles, dugongs (manatees), and over a hundred species of coral. The snorkeling and diving here allow you to see vibrant “underwater gardens” just a few meters from the shore.
Signature stops
Planning your visit
Where to Stay
Pangulasian Island Resort (₱8,000-25,000/night)
For the ultimate “private island” luxury, Pangulasian Island (often called the “Island of the Sun”) is unbeatable. Part of the El Nido Resorts group, it faces the sunrise and sunset. This eco-luxury resort features 42 villas, each with a private balcony and some with private pools. It’s located in a marine sanctuary, meaning you can snorkel with turtles and blacktip reef sharks right off the beach. It’s the top choice for honeymooners or travelers seeking five-star seclusion and world-class service.
El Nido Coco Resort (₱2,500-7,000/night)
Located in Corong Corong (just a short tricycle ride from the main town center), Coco Resort offers a boutique, tropical vibe. Guests stay in beautiful, thatched-roof bungalows nestled in a lush garden setting. It features a lovely central pool and is within walking distance of the beach, where you’ll find some of the best sunset bars in El Nido. It strikes a perfect balance between comfort, privacy, and proximity to the town’s activities.
Frendz Hostel El Nido (₱500-2,000/night)
If you are looking for a social, budget-friendly experience, Frendz Hostel is widely considered one of the best in the town center. It features an industrial-chic design, a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the Bacuit Bay cliffs, and a lively bar and restaurant. It’s perfect for solo travelers or friends who want a clean, safe, and fun environment where it’s easy to meet other people and join shared boat tours.
When to Visit
Best Time to Visit El Nido, Palawan
The timing of your trip to El Nido is crucial because the “magic” of the lagoons depends heavily on clear skies and calm waters. To get those postcard-perfect turquoise views, you’ll want to aim for the dry months.
1. The Best Time: December to April (Dry Season)
This is the “prime time” for El Nido. The weather is consistently sunny, and the sea is at its calmest.
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Why visit now: This is the only window where you are virtually guaranteed that boat tours won’t be cancelled due to rough waves. The water visibility is excellent for snorkeling in spots like Matinloc Shrine and Shimizu Island.
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The Trade-off: This is peak tourist season. Prices for accommodation are at their highest, and popular spots like the Big Lagoon can feel crowded.
2. The Shoulder Season: May and November
These months are a bit of a gamble but can be incredibly rewarding.
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Why visit now: The weather is generally hot and sunny, but there’s a slight chance of an afternoon rain shower. The crowds are much thinner than in January or February, and you might find better deals on boutique hotels.
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Note: May is often the hottest month in the Philippines, with temperatures frequently hitting 32°C to 34°C.
3. The Low Season: June to October (Rainy Season)
This is when the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) brings rain and occasional typhoons to Palawan.
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Why visit now: It is the cheapest time to visit. If you are on a tight budget, you can find luxury resorts at a fraction of their peak price.
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The Risk: Boat tours are frequently cancelled by the Coast Guard if the waves are too high, even if it’s not raining. Since island hopping is the main reason to visit El Nido, a 3-day trip during a storm could mean you don’t see the lagoons at all.
Getting There
How to Get to El Nido, Palawan
1. The Fastest Way: Direct Flight to Lio Airport (ENI)
This is the most convenient option. AirSwift is the only boutique airline that flies directly into El Nido’s private airport, Lio Airport.
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From Manila: Multiple flights daily (approx. 1 hour and 20 minutes).
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From Cebu/Bohol/Panglao: Direct flights are available, taking about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes.
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Pros: You land just 15–20 minutes away from El Nido town.
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Cons: Flights are more expensive (usually PHP 5,000–9,000 one way) and have a strict luggage limit (typically 10kg or 20kg).
2. The Budget Way: Fly to Puerto Princesa (PPS)
Many travelers fly into the capital of Palawan because major airlines (Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, AirAsia) offer much cheaper tickets.
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Step 1: Fly into Puerto Princesa International Airport.
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Step 2: Take a shared or private van to El Nido. The drive takes 5 to 6 hours over winding roads.
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Cost: Shared vans cost around PHP 600–800.
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Pros: Saves money on airfare.
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Cons: The van ride can be long, cramped, and exhausting after a flight.
3. The Scenic Way: Ferry from Coron
If you are combining El Nido with Coron (which many people do), you can travel by sea.
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Fast Ferry: High-speed ferries (like Montenegro or Phimal) take about 3.5 to 5 hours.
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Expedition Boats: For a true adventure, you can join a 3-to-5-day island-hopping expedition (e.g., Tao Philippines). You sail between Coron and El Nido, sleeping on remote islands along the way.
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Cost: Fast ferries are around PHP 2,500–3,000.
Costs & Budget
Estimated Daily Budget for El Nido, Palawan
El Nido is one of the more expensive destinations in the Philippines because of its popularity and the logistics of being at the tip of an island. However, it is still very manageable if you plan your tours and meals wisely.
Here is a daily cost breakdown in Philippine Pesos (PHP):
1. The Budget Traveler (PHP 2,000 – PHP 3,000 / day)
Best for backpackers staying in the town center and joining shared group tours.
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Accommodation: A bed in a highly-rated social hostel or a basic fan-cooled guesthouse (PHP 600 – PHP 1,200).
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Food: Eating at local “eateries,” night markets, or budget pizza spots (PHP 600 – PHP 900).
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Activities: One shared group tour (A, B, C, or D) which usually includes a buffet lunch (approx. PHP 1,200 – PHP 1,500).
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Transport: Walking within town or short tricycle hops (PHP 100 – PHP 200).
2. The Mid-Range Traveler (PHP 5,000 – PHP 9,000 / day)
The standard for couples or families staying in boutique hotels in Corong Corong or Lio.
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Accommodation: A private air-conditioned room in a boutique hotel or a beachfront cottage (PHP 3,500 – PHP 6,000).
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Food: Dining at popular beachfront restaurants like Trattoria Altrove or SAVA Beach Bar (PHP 1,500 – PHP 2,500).
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Activities: A mix of shared tours and maybe one private boat day for more privacy (PHP 2,000 – PHP 4,000 avg).
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Transport: Tricycle hires to Nacpan Beach or scooter rentals (PHP 400 – PHP 800).
3. The Luxury Traveler (PHP 25,000+ / day)
For those staying at the “El Nido Resorts” (Miniloc, Lagen, Pangulasian) where the price usually includes everything.
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Accommodation: A private island villa or high-end resort room (PHP 20,000 – PHP 50,000+).
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Food: Most meals are included at the resort, or upscale dining in town (PHP 4,000+).
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Activities: Private yacht charters, customized island hopping, and private guided diving (PHP 5,000 – PHP 15,000).
Essential Travel Tips
Essential Travel Tips for El Nido, Palawan
To ensure you spend more time in the lagoons and less time dealing with logistics, keep these essential tips in mind.
1. Book the “Premium” Lagoons Early
To prevent overcrowding, the local government has a strict quota for the Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon.
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The Rule: You can only visit one of these per day.
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The Tip: If you have your heart set on a specific lagoon, book your tour at least 2–3 weeks in advance, especially during peak season (December–April). If you wait until you arrive, they may already be fully booked.
2. Bring a Dry Bag and Water Shoes
These are non-negotiable in El Nido.
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Dry Bag: You will be getting in and out of boats, often in waist-deep water. A 10L or 20L dry bag is essential to keep your phone, camera, and dry clothes safe from splashes and rain.
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Water Shoes: The limestone rocks are incredibly sharp, and some lagoons require walking over jagged coral or rocks. You can rent them at the pier, but owning a pair is more comfortable and hygienic.
3. The “Cash is King” Rule (Still)
While more establishments in El Nido town are starting to accept credit cards (and some even use GCash), the majority of small shops, tricycle drivers, and tour operators are cash only.
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The ATM Situation: There are now several ATMs in town (BPI and RCBC), but they can still run out of cash or go offline during power outages. Always withdraw enough money in Manila or Puerto Princesa before heading to El Nido to avoid stress.
4. Be Environmentally Conscious
El Nido is a protected area, and the rules are enforced:
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No Single-Use Plastic: Bringing single-use plastic water bottles on boat tours is strictly prohibited. Most boats provide large water dispensers; bring your own reusable bottle.
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Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect the coral by avoiding sunscreens with oxybenzone.
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Don’t Feed the Fish: It disrupts the natural ecosystem and is against the local tour regulations.