El Nido: Travel Guide to Palawan’s Hidden Gem

El Nido: Travel Guide to Palawan’s Hidden Gem

Nestled in the northwestern tip of Palawan, El Nido is often called the ‘last frontier’ of the Philippines. With its crystal-clear waters, towering limestone cliffs, and pristine beaches, it’s no wonder this tropical haven is a must-visit for travelers. Whether you’re an adventure-seeker or simply in need of a peaceful retreat, El Nido has something for everyone. This guide will help you plan your trip to this breathtaking hidden gem.

Why El Nido is Special

The best time to visit El Nido is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to May. During this time, you can expect sunny weather, calm seas, and perfect conditions for island hopping. However, if you're looking to avoid the crowds, the shoulder months of May and early June may offer a more peaceful experience.

We visited El Nido in late November of 2024 (26-29), and we had great weather during our stay. The skies were mostly clear, and the sea conditions were ideal for island hopping. Booking accommodation and tours was effortless, as there was less demand compared to peak season.

How to Get to El Nido

Reaching El Nido is easier than you might think. You can fly directly from Manila, Cebu, or Clark to El Nido’s small Lio Airport (ENI), with a flight time of approximately 1 hour. If you’re traveling from Puerto Princesa, a bus or van ride will take around 5-6 hours. For those coming from Coron, a fast ferry connects to El Nido, with a travel time of about 3.5 to 4 hours. Flights are more convenient, but if you’re on a budget or enjoy scenic road trips, the overland journey is a great option.

Things to Do in El Nido

El Nido is famous for its island-hopping tours, categorized into different packages. Each tour offers a unique experience, from hidden lagoons to dramatic limestone formations and pristine beaches.

Tour A: Includes Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and 7 Commando Beach.

Tour B: Features sandbars, caves, and Pinagbuyutan Island.

Tour C: Known for Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, and Secret Beach.

Tour D: A quieter experience with serene lagoons and beaches like Cadlao Lagoon.

Nacpan Beach: A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers

Nestled about 45 minutes from El Nido town, a long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, kayaking, or beach walks.

Vanilla Beach: A Blend of Beauty, Culture, and Fun

Located in Barangay Corong Corong, a mix of relaxation, local culture, and natural beauty, featuring a unique strip mall with local shops and eateries.

Calitang Beach: The Quiet Escape

A peaceful, less crowded beach ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Lio Beach: A Modern Retreat with a Natural Touch

Located just a short drive from El Nido town, A more developed beach offering a mix of relaxation, shopping, and dining

Island Hopping

Lio Estate: Perfect for a Relaxed Stay

We stayed at Huni Lio Hotel for three nights and highly recommend it. Located away from the hustle of El Nido Town Proper, it offers peace and easy access to main attractions. The staff was friendly, and the breakfast buffet was a highlight. After a day of exploring, relaxing by the beach with cocktails or in the pool was the perfect way to unwind.

El Nido Town Proper
Ideal for those who want convenience, with easy access to restaurants, shops, and island tours. However, it’s more bustling, which may not suit those seeking pe

Corong-Corong
A short distance from the main town, offers a quieter vibe and stunning sunset views, making it perfect for those wanting tranquility while staying close to the action.

Nacpan Beach
For a more secluded experience, Nacpan Beach offers pristine sands and serenity. It’s perfect for those seeking privacy but is farther from main attractions.

Tricycles – The most common transport, driven by friendly locals. Short trips cost ₱50-100 ($1-2 CAD), and rides to farther beaches like Las Cabanas or Lio Beach range from ₱150-300 ($3-6 CAD). Private tours to nearby attractions are also available.

Motorbike Rentals – Rent a motorbike for ₱700/day ($17 CAD) to explore at your own pace, ideal for visiting remote spots like Nacpan or Duli Beach. Some experience is needed due to rough roads.

Bicycles – Some hotels offer bike rentals for ₱200-300/day ($5-7 CAD), perfect for short trips within town or to nearby Lio Beach.

Walking – Many restaurants, shops, and tour offices are within walking distance in the Town Proper, a great way to soak in the local vibe.

Private Van – Ideal for larger groups or more comfort, private vans can be booked in advance for local or nearby trips, as they don’t have fixed terminals.

Bring Cash – The local currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). ATMs are available in town, but it’s a good idea to bring cash as many establishments, particularly local eateries and tour operators, only accept cash payments.

Book Island Tours in Advance – Popular island-hopping tours can get fully booked quickly, especially during peak season. Booking ahead ensures you get your preferred schedule and tour provider. Private tours also require early reservations to secure the best boats.

Pack Reef-Safe Sunscreen & Water Shoes – Protect El Nido’s delicate marine ecosystem by using reef-safe sunscreen, which prevents harmful chemicals from damaging coral reefs. Water shoes are essential for exploring rocky shorelines, hidden lagoons, and stepping on uneven seabeds while snorkeling.

Bring a Dry Bag & Waterproof Phone Case – Since island hopping involves a lot of water activities, a dry bag keeps your valuables safe from splashes and accidental dips. A waterproof phone case is also a must for capturing stunning photos while kayaking or snorkeling.

Respect the Environment – El Nido is a protected area, so follow eco-friendly practices. Dispose of trash properly, avoid touching marine life, and refrain from taking shells or corals as souvenirs.

Final Thoughts

El Nido is a tropical haven that promises a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you're exploring its hidden beaches, diving into its vibrant marine life, or simply soaking in the breathtaking scenery, El Nido will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Have you been to El Nido? Share your experience in the comments below!

Private Boat Tour vs. Group Tour

Choosing between a private or group boat tour depends on your budget, schedule, and desire for flexibility.

Private Boat Tour: Perfect for those seeking privacy and a relaxed experience. We opted for a private Tour A for ₱11,000 (around $275 CAD) for two, which included a private boat, lunch, snacks, a guide, and all fees. This option allowed us to avoid crowds and explore at our own pace. We booked with El Nido Island Girl, who ensured a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Group Tour: A more budget-friendly choice, group tours follow a fixed itinerary with other travelers. While it's a great way to meet people, the experience can be crowded, and time at each stop is limited.

Best Time to Visit

Private Boat (Tour A)

Vanilla Beach

Visit beaches

Where to Stay in El Nido

Getting around El Nido

Travel Tips

Lio Estate

Huni Lio breakfast buffet

Calitang Beach

Big Lagoon Tour A

El Nido is known for its striking landscapes, featuring towering limestone formations, secret lagoons, and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving. It's a place where nature is at its most unspoiled, and every corner of the island offers something new to discover.