Discover the captivating beauty of El Nido, Palawan, Philippines. This tropical haven teems with secluded lagoons, towering limestone cliffs, and pristine beaches waiting to be explored.
Introduction
As my boat glided through the still turquoise waters of El Nido’s glittering lagoons, I was spellbound by the karst limestone cliffs towering above me. Against the backdrop of lush jungle foliage, these formations create a maze of secrets waiting to be uncovered in El Nido and the stunning Bacuit archipelago.
Nestled on the northern tip of Palawan island in the western Philippines, El Nido is truly a hidden gem. Its enchanting lagoons, secluded beaches, scenic islands and rich marine life combine to offer an unforgettable travel experience.
In this comprehensive guide, discover all that awaits you in this tropical paradise from island hopping adventures to cultural immersion:
Key Highlights
- Mesmerizing lagoons perfect for kayaking, swimming and snorkeling
- Pristine beaches with soft white sand and turquoise waters
- Diverse islands to explore on boat tours and diving expeditions
- Vibrant local culture and cuisine waiting to be sampled
- Stunning limestone cliffs and landscapes for picture-perfect vistas
Below is a table displaying ferry schedules and rates to El Nido. Please note that the details in this table are subject to change so please double check when you are planning your trip.
| Ferry Route | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Rate (Standard Class) | Rate (First Class) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coron to El Nido | 06:00 AM | 12:00 PM | 6 hours | $35 | $50 |
| Coron to El Nido | 08:00 AM | 02:00 PM | 6 hours | $35 | $50 |
| Puerto Princesa to El Nido | 07:00 AM | 01:00 PM | 6 hours | $30 | $45 |
| Puerto Princesa to El Nido | 09:00 AM | 03:00 PM | 6 hours | $30 | $45 |
| Puerto Princesa to El Nido | 12:00 PM | 06:00 PM | 6 hours | $30 | $45 |
| Coron to El Nido | 12:30 PM | 06:30 PM | 6 hours | $35 | $50 |
| Coron to El Nido | 02:00 PM | 08:00 PM | 6 hours | $35 | $50 |
| Puerto Princesa to El Nido | 03:00 PM | 09:00 PM | 6 hours | $30 | $45 |
Enchanting Lagoons and Hidden Beaches
El Nido’s sparkling lagoons offer a tranquil atmosphere to explore by kayak. Surrounded by verdant jungle foliage, these aquatic havens feature crystal clear waters perfect for swimming.
Big and Small Lagoon
Accessible by kayak through a small crevice in the limestone cliffs, these adjoining lagoons enchant with their still turquoise waters, shallow swimming spots and hidden caves waiting to be discovered behind vine curtains.
Secret Lagoon
Enter this hidden gem through a hole in towering karst cliffs to reveal an expansive interior featuring clear waters reflecting off the surrounding limestone. Wander through tunnels leading to adjacent lagoons shrouded in even more secrecy.
Kayangan Lake and Lagoon
Arguably El Nido’s most iconic landmark, this pristine freshwater lake sits atop towering limestone cliffs, accessible via a steep hike through the jungle. Kayaks are available to paddle across the emerald waters to an enchanting lagoon flowing into underwater caves.
Towering Limestone Cliffs and Pristine Beaches
Nacpan Beach
Spanning 4 kilometers of powdery white sand and gently lapping waves, Nacpan Beach offers picture-perfect vistas of the water stretching towards the horizon. Spend the day beachcombing, sunbathing or trying local street food from the small shops backing the shoreline.
Duli Beach
Nestled on the eastern coast of El Nido, Duli Beach charms with its clear shallow waters, coconut palms and soft white sand against a backdrop of verdant jungle foliage. Rent a beach cottage to immerse in island living.
Twin Beach
True to its name, this beach is divided by towering limestone cliffs into halves: one with calm shallow waters perfect for swimming and the other with rougher surf ideal for surfing. Connect the two at low tide by walking across a sandbar swirling through the center.
Cliff Diving
For adventure seekers, take cliff diving to new heights by plunging from heights up to 10 meters into El Nido’s glittering lagoons such as Cadlao Lagoon. Local outfitters lead beginner and advanced tours.
Island Hopping Adventures and Scuba Diving
Tour A: Lagoons and Snorkeling
This popular boat tour explores El Nido’s best lagoons for snorkeling and kayaking through thriving coral reefs and marine biodiversity including clownfish, parrotfish and turtles. Don’t miss hidden beaches tucked within the crevices of jagged limestone cliffs. Stop for a beachside picnic lunch at Shimizu Island’s sandy shoreline.
| Island Hopping Tour | Description |
|---|---|
| Tour A: Lagoons and Snorkeling | Kayak through Big and Small Lagoon, snorkel at Secret Lagoon |
| Tour B: Snake Island and Caves | Sea snake spotting, beachcombing, cave tours |
| Tour C: Hidden Beaches | Relax on remote beaches, try cliff diving |
| Tour D: Fjord Cruise | Scenic boat ride along Bacuit Bay’s limestone cliffs |
Scuba Diving
With an abundance of thriving coral reefs and diverse marine wildlife, El Nido offers world-class scuba diving and snorkeling. Certified divers can plunge into thriving reefs or creep through underwater crevasses and caves around Cadlao Island. Beginners can take lessons from local dive centers and explore shallow reefs teeming with tropical fish.
Cultural Immersion and Local Delicacies
Beyond its natural splendor, El Nido offers a warm window into traditional Filipino culture through its friendly residents, authentic cuisine and traditional island lifestyle.
Local Hospitality
El Nido residents exude the famous friendly and welcoming nature that the Philippines is renowned for. Stay in family-run beach cottages, dine at small personal restaurants and take boat tours from local fishermen turned captains.
Authentic Filipino Cuisine
Sample the catch of the day prepared in traditional Filipino recipes handed down for generations featuring fresh seafood, aromatic spices and tropical fruits. Savor grilled fish, shrimp skewers, kinilaw ceviche, coconut curries, mangosteen shakes and more as you dive into El Nido’s vibrant food scene.
Practical Information for Your El Nido Trip
With its remote location and recent rise in tourism popularity, careful planning helps maximize your El Nido travel experience. Use these essential tips and resources when organizing the logistics:
When to Visit
- Dry Season (November to May): Best weather and water clarity for island hopping and diving
- Wet Season (June to October): Lower rates but higher rainfall, storms and choppy waters
Transportation
- Flight: Fly from Manila to El Nido Airport
- Ferry: Take a 6-8 hour ferry from Coron or Puerto Princesa
Accommodation
- Beach cottages and resorts catering to various budgets
- Advanced booking recommended for peak seasons
For additional El Nido trip planning advice on travel deals, recommended packing lists, tour agencies, and respecting local culture, check out:
| Budget Breakdown for 5 Night El Nido Trip |
|---|
| Expense |
| Round Trip Flight from Manila |
| Hotel |
| Island Hopping Boat Tours |
| Meals & Drinks |
| Total Budget |
Start Planning Your El Nido Adventure
As you embark on your own Philippine voyage, allow El Nido’s shimmering lagoons, scenic vistas and rich culture to enchant your senses. From thrilling adventures to serene beachfront relaxation, an unforgettable tropical paradise awaits discovery in this island haven.
Have you traveled to El Nido? Share your memorable experiences and travel tips with fellow wanderers! Spread the word about this relatively under-the-radar tropical gem.
