Planning a trip to El Nido, Palawan? You're in for one of the most breathtaking travel experiences in the Philippines. With its dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons, and powder-white beaches, El Nido has earned its reputation as one of the world's best island destinations.
But with so many activities to choose from, it can be overwhelming to plan. In this guide, we'll walk you through the 10 best things to do in El Nido — from must-do island-hopping tours to hidden local spots most tourists miss.
1. Island Hopping Tour A — The Classic
Tour A is the most popular island-hopping route in El Nido — and for good reason. It takes you to the iconic Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon, two of the most photographed spots in the Philippines.
You'll also visit Shimizu Island (perfect for snorkeling), Secret Lagoon (accessible through a small hole in a limestone wall), and Seven Commandos Beach (ideal for sunset).
- Duration: 7–8 hours (usually 9 AM to 4 PM)
- Price: ₱1,200–₱1,500 per person (group tour)
- Best for: First-time visitors, photographers, families
- What to bring: Reef-safe sunscreen, aqua shoes, waterproof phone case, dry bag
Pro tip: Book a private tour if you want to avoid the crowds. It costs more (₱6,000–₱9,000 for the whole boat) but you'll get to the lagoons before the group tours arrive.
2. Island Hopping Tour C — Hidden Beaches & Caves
If you only have time for two tours, make them Tour A and Tour C. Tour C is the most adventurous of the four standard routes, taking you to remote beaches accessible only by boat.
Highlights include:
- Hidden Beach — a secluded cove surrounded by limestone cliffs
- Matinloc Shrine — a clifftop church with panoramic views
- Secret Beach — swim through a small opening to reach a hidden paradise
- Star Beach — perfect for snorkeling and lunch
- Helicopter Island — named for its distinctive shape
Price: ₱1,400–₱1,600 per person | Duration: 7–8 hours
3. Kayak Through the Big Lagoon at Sunrise
The Big Lagoon in Tour A is magical — but if you want to experience it without the crowds, rent a kayak and go at 6 AM before the tour boats arrive.
You'll paddle through emerald-green water surrounded by towering limestone walls, with the only sounds being your paddle and the occasional bird call. It's one of the most peaceful experiences in the Philippines.
Where to rent: Most tour operators offer kayak rentals for ₱300–₱500 for 2 hours. Some hotels in El Nido town also arrange sunrise kayak trips.
4. Dive or Snorkel at Dilumacad Island
Also known as Helicopter Island (because of its helicopter-like silhouette from the air), Dilumacad Island is one of the best snorkeling spots in El Nido.
The reef here is teeming with marine life — expect to see clownfish, parrotfish, sea turtles, and if you're lucky, small reef sharks. The water is clear, shallow, and perfect for beginners.
If you're a certified diver, the nearby Dilumacad Tunnel dive site is a must — a 30-meter underwater tunnel that opens to a vibrant coral garden.
Snorkel rental: ₱150–₱200 | Dive cost: ₱1,500–₱2,500 per dive
5. Watch the Sunset at Las Cabañas Beach
While Nacpan Beach is more famous, Las Cabañas Beach (also known as Marimegmeg Beach) is where locals go for sunsets. It's quieter, more laid-back, and offers an unobstructed view of the sun dipping into the West Philippine Sea.
There are a few beach bars and restaurants along the shore where you can grab a drink or dinner while watching the sky turn orange and pink.
How to get there: 10–15 minutes by tricycle from El Nido town (₱150–₱200 each way).
6. Trek to Nacpan Beach & Twin Beach
Nacpan Beach is a 4-kilometer stretch of golden sand about 45 minutes north of El Nido town. It's often ranked as one of the best beaches in Asia — and once you see it, you'll understand why.
Pair it with a visit to Twin Beach (Calitang Beach) — a narrow strip of land that separates two beaches, with a small hill you can climb for a panoramic view of both.
- How to get there: Rent a scooter (₱500/day) or hire a tricycle (₱1,500 round trip)
- Best time: Early morning (before 9 AM) for fewer crowds
- Tip: Bring cash — ATMs are rare outside El Nido town
7. Explore the Bacuit Archipelago by Private Boat
If you have a bigger budget, hiring a private boat is the ultimate El Nido experience. You can customize your itinerary, avoid the crowds, and stay longer at the spots you love.
Popular custom itineraries include:
- Sunrise at Big Lagoon + breakfast on a private island
- Snorkeling at remote reefs not on standard tours
- Overnight camping on a deserted beach
- Photography-focused tours with golden hour stops
Price: ₱8,000–₱15,000 per boat (up to 8 people) | Book via: Your hotel or local operators
8. Zip Line from El Nido to Las Cabañas
For adrenaline junkies, the 750-meter zip line from El Nido town to Las Cabañas Beach is a must-try. It's one of the longest zip lines in the Philippines, offering stunning views of the bay and surrounding islands.
Price: ₱500 (one-way) or ₱800 (round trip) | Duration: ~1 minute ride
9. Try Local Food at El Nido Night Market
Every evening starting around 5 PM, the El Nido Night Market comes alive with sizzling grills, fresh seafood, and local Filipino dishes. It's the best (and cheapest) way to try Palawan cuisine.
Must-try dishes:
- Grilled squid — fresh from the sea, marinated in soy and calamansi
- Kinilaw — Filipino ceviche made with fresh fish, vinegar, and coconut milk
- Lato (sea grapes) — a local seaweed salad, crunchy and refreshing
- Lechon kawali — crispy pork belly, best paired with rice
- Halo-halo — shaved ice dessert with fruits and ube
Budget: ₱200–₱400 per person for a full meal
10. Take a Day Trip to the Underground River in Puerto Princesa
While technically 5–6 hours away from El Nido, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is worth a side trip if you have an extra day.
The 8-kilometer underground river winds through a limestone cave system, with impressive rock formations, stalactites, and thousands of bats overhead.
How to do it: Book a day tour from El Nido (₱3,500–₱5,000 per person, including transport) or split your trip with 1 night in Puerto Princesa.
Bonus: Best Time to Visit El Nido
The dry season (November to May) is the best time to visit El Nido. Expect sunny skies, calm seas, and ideal conditions for island hopping and diving.
The wet season (June to October) brings occasional rain and rougher seas, but also lower prices and fewer crowds. Some tours may be canceled during typhoons, so always check the weather forecast.
Where to Stay in El Nido
El Nido has accommodation for every budget:
- Budget (₱500–₱1,500/night): Hostels and guesthouses in El Nido town
- Mid-range (₱2,000–₱5,000/night): Boutique hotels and beachfront resorts along Corong-Corong and Las Cabañas
- Luxury (₱8,000+/night): Private island resorts like Miniloc and Lagen Island
Check out our hotels page to compare prices and book directly.
Final Tips for Your El Nido Trip
- Bring cash. ATMs are limited and often run out of money, especially on weekends.
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen. Regular sunscreen damages coral reefs and is banned in some areas.
- Book tours in advance during peak season (December to April).
- Bring a dry bag. You'll need it for island hopping — water splashes are inevitable.
- Learn basic Filipino phrases. A simple "salamat" (thank you) goes a long way with locals.
- Respect the environment. Don't touch the coral, don't litter, and follow your guide's instructions.
Ready to Plan Your El Nido Adventure?
El Nido is one of those places that stays with you long after you leave. Whether you're chasing sunsets, diving with sea turtles, or simply floating in a hidden lagoon, this little corner of Palawan will capture your heart.
Start planning your trip today — compare hotels, book ferries, and find flights all in one place.
Have you been to El Nido? Share your favorite experience in the comments below — or send us an email at hello@elnidohub.com.