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In El Nido, the most recommended activities include island-hopping to explore its pristine beaches and lagoons, snorkeling at secret lagoons, visiting the famous Big Lagoon, kayaking through the crystal-clear waters, and relaxing on beaches like Nacpan and Seven Commandos Beach. The stunning limestone cliffs and caves are also worth exploring.
El Nido (also known as El Nido), located in northwest Palawan, is a dreamlike region of bays and islands dotted with dozens of diverse limestone islands. The Spanish named it Nido (meaning "bird's nest") in 1954. El Nido boasts a diverse ecosystem, including white sand beaches, mangroves, coral reefs, and limestone reefs, as well as pristine, stunning scenery. It has been named Asia's Best Beach Resort by National Geographic for three consecutive years.
El Nido's main beach is located near the ferry terminal. The seaside town is where most tourists stop. The quiet and comfortable atmosphere is very suitable for spending a leisurely vacation. You can stroll on the coconut-lined beach, listen to the waves, watch the sea view, or taste the roadside seafood barbecue. It is even more romantic at sunset.
The main beach and the surrounding seaside town are small enough to explore in just half a day. El Nido's main attraction is island hopping, exploring the towering limestone islands scattered in the sea, finding hidden beaches, enjoying the secluded lagoons, or snorkeling and diving. Divers might be lucky enough to spot the world's rarest marine mammal, the manatee, which resembles the legendary mermaid.
El Nido's main accommodation options are located near the beach, with simple beachfront huts and hotels offering standard accommodations, ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 pesos per night. However, due to the local preference for cold showers, hot water is limited in hotels, so it's best to book in advance if you require it. Furthermore, electricity is generally only available from 2:00 PM to 6:00 AM, with no electricity at other times. However, some hotels have their own generators, so it's recommended to inquire about this when booking.
El Nido boasts a tropical rainforest climate and boasts a diverse ecosystem, including rainforests, mangroves, white beaches, coral reefs, and limestone reefs. It has become a top tourist destination. With its unique natural landscapes, wildlife reserves, and countless fish species, it's a great place to visit in all seasons.
The island has unique scenery, including white sand beaches, mangroves, coral belts, etc.
Recommended 1-2 days of play
free
All day
El Nido is known for its biodiversity and stunning natural beauty, with the town's name derived from the "nido" (bird's nest) found in the caves of the islands. It was once a fishing village and is now a popular eco-tourism destination due to its unique limestone formations, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine life.
El Nido is located on the northern tip of Palawan Island in the Philippines. To get there, you can fly into Puerto Princesa and take a 5-6 hour bus ride, or you can take a direct flight from Manila to El Nido Airport, which is just a short drive from the town center.
El Nido is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to May. This is when the weather is most favorable for island-hopping and outdoor activities. The town is open all year, but it’s best to avoid the rainy season (June to November).
There is no entrance fee to the town itself, but island tours have a cost. These tours typically range from PHP 1,200 to PHP 1,500 (approx. $25-$30) per person for the basic packages, which include boat rides, lunch, and snorkeling equipment. Tickets can be bought at local tour operators or online.
While it’s not strictly necessary to book tickets for island tours in advance, it is recommended to book at least 1-2 days ahead during peak season to secure your spot. For flights to El Nido, booking 2-3 months in advance can help you get better rates.
To fully explore El Nido and its surrounding islands, 3 to 4 days is recommended. This allows time for island-hopping tours, beach relaxation, and exploration of other attractions like lagoons and caves.
The must-see highlights include the Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Hidden Beach. The stunning Nacpan Beach and Seven Commandos Beach are also favorites for relaxation.
Yes, guided tours are available for island-hopping, with English-speaking guides most common. Some local tours may offer additional languages, but English is widely understood. Most tours include boatmen who double as guides during the trips.
The best viewpoints for photos are at the top of the limestone cliffs on the islands, particularly at the viewpoint near the Big Lagoon. The view from the top of Taraw Peak also offers an incredible panoramic view of El Nido town and the surrounding islands.
A typical itinerary includes island tours like Tour A (Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon) and Tour C (Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine). A day trip to Nacpan Beach for relaxation or hiking up Taraw Peak for a panoramic view are also recommended. Include time for snorkeling and exploring local shops in El Nido town.
El Nido is primarily a daytime destination, with most activities occurring during daylight hours. There are no light shows, but some resorts and beachfront bars offer evening entertainment, including live music and cultural performances.
El Nido can be crowded, especially during peak season (December to April). The least crowded times to visit are during the shoulder seasons (May and November), when the weather is still good but fewer tourists are around.
Facilities in El Nido include public restrooms, several local restaurants serving Filipino and international cuisine, small shops for basic needs, and water refill stations. Some islands offer basic facilities like shaded rest areas, but it’s good to bring your own snacks and water for tours.
While El Nido itself is not fully wheelchair accessible, it is possible for elderly or children to enjoy the beaches and some of the more accessible areas. However, certain tours may involve trekking or boat rides that are not suitable for those with mobility issues.
Cash is widely used in El Nido, as many smaller shops and restaurants don’t accept cards. However, major hotels, resorts, and larger businesses accept credit cards, and ATMs are available in town. Mobile payments are also increasingly accepted in some places.
There are plenty of restaurants and cafes in El Nido, serving local and international dishes. Some popular spots include Trattoria Altrove (Italian), Art Cafe (Western cuisine), and the El Nido Public Market for local street food.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in many restaurants in El Nido, with a variety of vegetable-based dishes, rice bowls, and fresh salads. Halal food options are more limited but can be found in some restaurants that cater to Muslim travelers.
Popular accommodations in El Nido include luxury resorts like Pangulasian Island Resort, El Nido Resorts Miniloc Island, and mid-range options like El Nido Garden Resort. Budget accommodations like hostels and guesthouses are also available near the town center.
Nearby attractions include the Nacpan Beach, Las Cabanas Beach, and the calm waters of Cadlao Lagoon. If you have more time, consider a visit to the stunning Caluit Safari Park or a tour of the Cudugnon Cave.
There are several souvenir shops in El Nido where you can buy local handicrafts such as woven baskets, wooden carvings, and shell jewelry. Freshwater pearls and local clothes are also popular souvenirs.
The best transportation options after visiting El Nido are taking a bus or van to Puerto Princesa for flights, or hiring a private vehicle if traveling to other destinations in Palawan, such as Coron or Puerto Princesa itself.
