El Nido, nestled in the northern part of Palawan Island, is a true paradise for travelers. Known for its stunning landscapes, turquoise waters, and diverse marine life, it offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a beach lover, or someone eager to dive into local culture, El Nido has something to captivate every type of traveler. From island hopping to exploring hidden gems, here are six must-do activities during your visit:
- Island Hopping Tour – 4 Different Options
- Relax on El Nido’s Beautiful Beaches
- Zip Line to Las Cabañas Beach
- Hike Taraw Cliff
- Explore El Nido Town
- Watch the Sunset
1
Island Hopping Tour – 4 Different Options
Island hopping is one of the main attractions in El Nido, offering an unparalleled opportunity to explore stunning limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life while kayaking and snorkeling. There are four main tours, each offering a unique set of destinations to suit different interests:
- Tour A: Visit the iconic Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Seven Commandos Beach. Ideal for kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming in crystal-clear waters. Be prepared for crowds, as this is the most popular tour.
- Tour B: Explore Snake Island, Cudugnon Cave, Cathedral Cave, and Pinagbuyutan Island. This tour combines beach relaxation, cave exploration, and snorkeling, perfect for those seeking variety.
- Tour C: Discover Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Secret Beach, and Helicopter Island. Ideal for snorkeling lovers and those wanting to visit a spiritual site with stunning panoramic views.
- Tour D: Experience the tranquility of Cadlao Lagoon, Pasandigan Beach, Natnat Beach, and Bukal Beach. This less popular tour offers a peaceful escape with fewer tourists, perfect for a more relaxing day.
Pro Tip: Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
My Experience: I chose Tour D and highly recommend it. Since it’s the least popular, there were very few tourists at the four spots, which made snorkeling and exploring peaceful and enjoyable. If you’re looking for a calm day with incredible views, this tour is ideal.
Price: Tours typically range from 1200 to 1400 PHP (30-40$ CAD), including lunch.
Operating Hours: Tours usually start around 9:00 AM and end by 4:00 PM.
Pro Tips: Bring a waterproof bag, for protecting valuables, sunscreen, and a hat.
2
Relax on El Nido’s Beautiful Beaches
El Nido is home to some of the most picturesque beaches in the Philippines, each offering its own unique charm:
- Corong-Corong Beach: A serene beach near El Nido town, known for calm waters and breathtaking sunsets.
- Nacpan Beach: A 30-minute drive north of El Nido town, famous for its long stretch of white sand and clear waters. Perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
- Duli Beach: For a more secluded experience, head to Duli Beach, about 40 minutes north of El Nido. It’s a lesser-known spot, ideal for surfing and escaping the crowds.
- Las Cabañas Beach: Located close to town, this beach is perfect for sunset views and features a 750-meter zip line between islands.
Pro Tip: Bring snacks and water, as some beaches are more remote and may not have nearby shops.
3
Zip Line to Las Cabañas Beach
For an adrenaline-filled adventure, take the 750-meter zip line to Las Cabañas Beach. Soar over the water while enjoying stunning views of El Nido’s coastline. For the best experience, aim for sunset to enjoy the view as you glide across the water.
How to Get There
To reach the starting point of the zip line, head to Marimegmeg Beach, about 5 kilometers from El Nido town proper. You can easily get there by taking a tricycle, which costs around 100 PHP (2.50$ CAD). The ride takes about 10-15 minutes. Once you arrive, follow the marked trail leading up to the zip line’s launching point, which involves a short uphill hike.
What About the Return?
Once you reach Las Cabañas Beach, you have two options to return to the starting point. You can take a walk along the beachside path, which takes around 10-15 minutes. If you prefer not to walk back, tricycles are available at the beach entrance to take you back to El Nido town for around 150 PHP (3.75$ CAD).
Price: Zip line tickets cost between 500 PHP and 900 PHP (13-25$ CAD), depending on whether you choose a seated or superman-style ride.
Operating Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Pro Tip: Bring Cash as there are no ATMs nearby, so carry enough cash for your zip line ticket and any additional expenses.
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4
Hike Taraw Cliff
For those seeking adventure, hiking Taraw Cliff is a challenging but rewarding experience. The climb is steep with no clear trail, requiring navigation over rocky terrain, but the panoramic views of El Nido from the top are worth the effort.
Safety Tip: Due to the challenging nature of this hike, it’s highly recommended to hire a local guide. Several guides offer their services directly in the center of El Nido.
Best Time to Visit: Start your hike early (6:00 AM to 9:00 AM) to avoid the heat and crowds.
Price: Guides charge around 500 to 700 PHP (12-20$ CAD)per person.
Pro Tips: Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a camera to capture the views.
5
Explore El Nido Town
El Nido town is a charming place to explore, offering colorful streets, delicious local cuisine, and unique souvenirs. Whether you’re wandering through local markets, enjoying a beachfront meal, or stopping at cozy cafes, the town has something for everyone.
Local Eats: Try traditional Filipino dishes like adobo, sinigang, and fresh seafood.
Pro Tip: Bring cash, as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept cards.
6
Watch the Sunset
No visit to El Nido is complete without watching its stunning sunsets. Whether you’re at the beach, a rooftop bar, or on a boat, the views as the sun dips below the horizon are truly magical.
Best Spots: Corong-Corong Beach is known for its calm setting, perfect for a sunset swim. Alternatively, Las Cabañas Beach or one of the town’s rooftop bars offers panoramic views.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially at popular locations.
Time of the Sunsets: Around 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM, depending on the time of year.
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