Island Hopping El Nido: Complete Guide + My Personal Tour A Experience

White beaches, crystal-clear turquoise water, and imposing limestone rocks rising from the sea? This is what you think of when you hear Palawan, and exactly why I came to El Nido. That famous island hopping trip everyone talks about? I wanted to see it with my own eyes. And it was magical!

Why El Nido Is The Paradise Of The Philippines

Palawan is the largest province of the Philippines and has no less than 1,780 islands and rocky islets around the main island. With approximately 2,000 kilometers of coastline, this province offers endless white beaches surrounded by spectacular limestone formations and azure blue water.

The 4 Island Hopping Tours: Which One Should You Choose?

In El Nido, you can choose from four standardized tours: A, B, C, and D. Each tour visits different highlights in Bacuit Bay. Regardless of which company you book with, the destinations remain the same – only the quality of service may differ.

🌊 Tour A – The Iconic Lagoon Tour (Most Popular)

Highlights: Big Lagoon OR Small Lagoon • Secret Lagoon • Shimizu Island • Seven Commando Beach

This is by far the most popular tour, and for good reason! You visit the most photogenic lagoons of El Nido. Perfect for first-time visitors who want to see the iconic spots. Note: it can be quite crowded.

🏝️ Tour B – The Adventurous Discovery Tour

Highlights: Snake Island • Pinagbuyutan Island • Entalula Beach • Cudugnon Cave • Cathedral Cave

Ideal if you love climbing and caves. Less touristy than Tour A and C, so the perfect choice to avoid the masses.

🏖️ Tour C – The Secret Beaches Tour (Also Very Popular)

Highlights: Secret Beach • Hidden Beach • Matinloc Shrine • Helicopter Island • Tapiutan Island

The second most popular tour after Tour A. Offers fantastic snorkeling opportunities and the most remote beaches. Many travelers combine this with Tour A if they’re staying multiple days.

🌅 Tour D – The Underrated Quiet Tour

Highlights: Small Lagoon • Cadlao Lagoon • Paradise Beach • Nat-nat Beach • Pasandigan Cove

This tour stays closer to El Nido and is therefore the least crowded. Perfect if you want to seek tranquility while still seeing beautiful places.

My choice? I chose Tour A because Tour C was fully booked. Looking back, I’m happy with this choice – the lagoons are truly breathtaking! I spent my other day in El Nido diving, which I also highly recommend.

My Day on Tour A: From Start to Finish

Stop 1: Seven Commando Beach – The Perfect Opening

What a way to start the day! Seven Commando Beach welcomed us with powdery white sand and palm trees gently swaying in the wind. I started off right: a cold fresh coconut for hydration.

After a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear water, I discovered a swing hanging from a palm tree. Of course, I had to swing through the air like Jane above the water, the perfect Instagram moment and a great warm-up for the rest of the day!

In this Top 8 Trips to Make in 2018 the beaches of Palawan are included!

Stop 2: Small Lagoon & Big Lagoon – Kayaking Between Limestone Cathedrals

And then we sailed to the lagoons. Both lagoons are surrounded by towering limestone rocks that rise dramatically from the emerald green water. It feels like paddling through a natural cathedral. At both locations, I rented a kayak – and this was absolutely the highlight of my day.

The silence here was magical, only the sound of your paddle cutting through the water and occasionally the cry of a tropical bird.

Stop 3: Shimizu Island – Snorkeling and Feasting

At Shimizu Island, it was time for a dive. With snorkel and mask, we dove into an underwater world full of life. The water is so clear that you can see meters deep. Schools of colorful tropical fish swam around me. And of course, I looked for hidden colorful fish among the coral. The underwater life here is truly diverse and beautiful.

I’ll be honest: the coral itself is largely bleached and dead, a direct result of over-tourism and climate change. It made me realize how important responsible tourism is.

While we were snorkeling, our crew conjured up a beautiful lunch on board: grilled fish, fried rice, fresh vegetables, and tropical fruit for dessert. This lunch at sea, with the boat gently rocking on the waves, was unexpectedly one of the best meals of my entire Philippines trip!

The atmosphere was great too. I shared the boat with an American couple and an Indian couple, we got talking and shared stories about our travels. This is what I love about group tours: the people you meet.

Stop 4: Secret Lagoon – The Hidden Gem

Our last stop was the Secret Lagoon, and the name is well-deserved. You can only reach this place by swimming to a rock wall and then climbing through a narrow opening – almost a hole – in the rock. On the other side, you discover a hidden pool, completely enclosed by towering rock walls. It feels like stepping into another world. The water here is shallow and calm, perfect for swimming.

The reality of popularity: Yes, there was a queue. El Nido is no longer a secret, and you notice this especially at these hotspots. But even the waiting was entertaining – I saw small fish crawling over the rocks, almost as if they were walking! Although I normally prefer quieter places, I completely understand why this place is so beloved. It’s simply unique and spectacular.

What Does Island Hopping in El Nido Cost? (Current Prices)

Let’s be honest: El Nido isn’t the cheapest, but I definitely found it worth the investment. Here’s the complete cost overview:

Base Tour Prices El Nido

What’s included:

Tour A 1,200-1,500 PHP (€21-26) Boat, lunch, water, snorkel set
Tour B 1,200-1,500 PHP (€21-26) Boat, lunch, water, snorkel set
Tour C 1,400 PHP (€24) Boat, lunch, water, snorkel set
Tour D 1,200-1,500 PHP (€21-26) Boat, lunch, water, snorkel set

Extra Costs (Mandatory)

Eco-Tourism Development Fee (ETDF): 400 PHP (€7) per person

• Increased from 200 to 400 PHP since June 2024
• Valid for 10 days
• Crucial: Keep your receipt! You must show it at every tour
• This money goes to nature conservation and preservation of El Nido

Lagoon Access: 200 PHP (€3.50) per person

To be paid on-site

Save Money: Share a Private Tour

Traveling with friends or family? Consider booking a private tour:

• Cost: 6,000-8,000 PHP for the entire boat (for max. 6-8 people)
• With 6 people: approximately 1,200-1,400 PHP per person (comparable to group tour!)
• Advantages: flexible schedule, less crowded, stay longer at spots

Practical Information: Everything You Need to Know

Daily Schedule

• 07:30-08:00: Pick-up at hotel/hostel in El Nido center or Corong-Corong
• 08:30-09:00: Departure from El Nido Beach
• 09:00-12:00: First stops (variable per tour)
• 12:00-13:30: Lunch on an island
• 13:30-16:00: Last stops
• 16:00-17:00: Back in El Nido

Total duration: 7-8 hours (prepare for a long but amazing day!)

What’s Included

✅ Boat transfer with traditional bangka (wooden boat with side stabilizers)
✅ Experienced boat crew and guide
✅ Picnic lunch (usually grilled fish, chicken or pork + rice + fruit)
✅ Unlimited drinking water and soft drinks
✅ Snorkeling equipment (mask and snorkel)
✅ Life jackets (if desired)

What’s NOT Included

❌ ETDF (400 PHP – one-time)
❌ Lagoon entrance fee (200 PHP)
❌ Kayak rental (300-350 PHP)
❌ Drinks at beach shacks
❌ Tip for crew (optional but appreciated)

Where to Book Your Island Hopping Trip?

You have several options:

1. Book online in advance (recommended)

• Via GetYourGuide, Tour A, Tour B, Tour C of Tour D
• Advantages: certainty of spot, often includes hotel pickup, better reviews
• Disadvantage: slightly more expensive

2. On-site in El Nido

• Dozens of tour operators along the main street
• Advantages: often cheaper, more flexible
• Disadvantages: tours can be full (especially Tour A and C in high season)

8 Essential Tips For Your Island Hopping Adventure

1. Invest in That Kayak!

Seriously, this was the highlight of my day. Yes, it costs 300-350 pesos extra, but:

• You see the underwater life much better from the kayak
• Swimming makes you tired faster
• Some lagoons are quite far to swim to
• The freedom to explore at your own pace is priceless

2. Watch Out For Sea Urchins! (Important Safety Warning)

This is no joke. Kyle, from the American couple I spent the day with, stepped out of his kayak right onto a sea urchin. His foot was full of spines and it was clearly painful! Believe me, this is not what you want to experience on such a day.

Golden rule: Swim as much as you want, but NEVER stand on the bottom. This not only protects you from sea urchins but also the fragile coral.

3. Bring a Waterproof Bag

You literally step into the water to get into the boat – you get wet from second one! A waterproof drybag (available for 200-500 pesos in El Nido) protects:

• Your phone
• Camera
• Wallet and passport
• Extra clothing
• Towel

4. Bring Extra Cash

Kayaking, drinks at beach shacks – everything is cash. Bring at least 1,000-1,500 pesos cash on your day of island hopping in El Nido.

Note: ATMs in El Nido regularly run out of money, especially in high season. Withdraw enough money in advance!

5. Use Reef-Friendly Sunscreen

Regular sunscreen with oxybenzone and octinoxate destroys coral. Use:

• Mineral sunscreen SPF50
• Or cover yourself with a UV shirt

Know this: The Philippine sun is intense. Without protection, you can burn quickly.

6. Come Prepared: No Supermarkets Along the Way

Bring:

• Extra snacks (trail mix, cookies, fruit)
• Water/soft drinks (also available on the boat)
• Seasickness medication if you’re sensitive
• Mosquito spray for island stops

7. Protect Your Valuables

You’re going to enjoy a day in nature, so leave your valuables in the hotel/hostel:

• Extra money and credit cards
• Jewelry
• Laptop/DSLR camera

8. Respect Nature

Be aware that you’re in a vulnerable natural area and follow your guide’s instructions. Make sure you don’t leave a lasting impression on the coral and in El Nido.

• Don’t touch coral
• Don’t feed fish
• Of course, take all your trash back with you

Crowds in El Nido: The New Reality

Let’s be honest: El Nido has long ceased to be a secret. With more than 500,000 visitors per year, it has become one of the busiest places in the Philippines.

What I saw:

• At popular spots like Big Lagoon, you can have 20-30 boats at once
• Unfortunately, a queue at Secret Lagoon
• Busy beaches at Seven Commando

But… This didn’t make my experience any less magical. Why?

• The natural beauty is so overwhelming that even with other boats, the places remain spectacular
• Our guide was smart with timing – sometimes we waited 10 minutes to let a place become quieter
• The vibe on the boat was great; everyone was enthusiastic and respectful

My opinion: Yes, it’s crowded. But it’s still absolutely worth it. If crowds are really a deal-breaker, choose Tour B or D, or consider Port Barton as an alternative.

Sustainability: Where Does Your ETDF Fee Go?

Since 2008, you pay the Eco-Tourism Development Fee in El Nido. Since June 2024, this has been increased to 400 pesos. But where does this money go? I found the following explanation:

Official allocation:

• 50% → Environment and tourism-related projects
• 10% → Local community projects (barangays)
• 10% → Protected Area Management Board
• 10% → General municipal fund
• 20% → Implementation costs

Concrete projects:

• Installation of mooring buoys at diving and snorkeling spots (to prevent anchor damage)
• Removal of Crown-of-Thorns starfish (that eat coral)
• Regular beach cleanup actions
• Mangrove restoration
• Protection of water areas

What I also saw: A boat full of collected waste being transported to the mainland. That gave me hope! It shows they’re actively engaged in waste management.

The reality: Experts estimate that at least 10 million pesos per year is needed, while the ETDF currently generates 3-4 million. So more is needed.

Your role: By traveling responsibly, taking your waste back, and paying this fee, you contribute to preserving this paradise for future generations.

Keep El Nido Clean!

Where to Stay in El Nido? Accommodations For Every Budget

The choice of where you stay in El Nido can make a big difference in your experience. Here are the best options in three price ranges:

💰 Budget: €10-25 per night (Hostels & Guesthouses)

Perfect for backpackers and budget travelers who want to save without sacrificing comfort.

• 🏆 Spin Designer Hostel (El Nido Town) – from €10/night dorm
  My top pick for budget travelers! This modern hostel has beautiful design, super clean facilities, and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Frendz Hostel (El Nido Town) – from €12/night dorm
  Want a party hostel? Then Frendz is your place! With a rooftop pool and bar directly at El Nido Bay, this is THE social hostel.
• Happiness Hostel (El Nido Town) – from €10/night dorm
  Go for Happiness! That’s what you’re traveling for, right? This hostel is centrally located within walking distance of restaurants, bars, and Las Cabanas Beach.

💎 Mid-range: €40-80 per night (Hotels & Resorts)

For those who want a bit more comfort and privacy without going bankrupt.

• 🏆 El Nido Viewdeck Cottages (Between Town & Corong-Corong) – from €50/night
  My personal favorite! This accommodation is on a hill between El Nido Town and Corong-Corong with a spectacular view from your pool over the bay.
• Ursula Beach Resort (El Nido) – from €75/night
  Ursula Beach Resort has a lovely garden, terrace, restaurant, and bar in El Nido and is a few minutes’ walk from Tapik Beach.
• Corong Beach Resort (Corong-Corong) – from €70/night
  Right on the beach with spacious, modern rooms and private bathroom. Quiet location but less than 10 minutes from El Nido center.

💸 Luxury: €100+ per night (Premium Resorts)

For those who want to enjoy pure & unique pampering in paradise.

🏆 El Nido Resorts (On private islands) – from €200/night
The ultimate luxury experience! El Nido has four exclusive island resorts on private islands in the bay:

• Miniloc Island Resort – Among the limestone rocks
• Lagen Island Resort – Eco-luxury in the jungle
• Pangulasian Island Resort – White sand perfection

Everything included: meals, non-alcoholic drinks, boat transfers, and a selection of activities to choose from. Your own paradise island without day tourists!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• How many days do you need for El Nido?
  Minimum 3-4 days. This allows you to do 1-2 island hopping tours, a beach day, and possibly diving or other activities.
• Which tour is the most beautiful: A or C?
  Both are spectacular! Tour A is iconic for the lagoons, Tour C has the most beautiful secluded beaches. If you can only do one: choose A.
• Can you still combine Tour A and C?
  No, since new regulations (to counter over-tourism), it’s no longer allowed to combine tours. You can only do one tour per day.
• Is El Nido suitable for children?
  Absolutely! The tours are family-friendly, although young children might struggle with the long day on the boat. Life jackets are available.
• Do you need to know how to swim for island hopping?
  It’s strongly recommended. At some stops, you must get into the water from the boat. Life jackets are available, but basic water skills are expected.
• Are there sharks in El Nido?
  Yes, but no dangerous species! You can encounter reef sharks while snorkeling and diving, but these are completely harmless. They’re usually shy and swim away. Shark attacks are extremely rare in El Nido.
• What’s the best tour for snorkeling?
  Tour C is generally considered the best for snorkeling, with stops at Matinloc Island and Tapiutan Island that have beautiful corals. Tour A also has good snorkeling spots at Shimizu Island.
• Can I eat vegetarian/vegan on the tours?
  Yes! Most tour operators offer vegetarian options for lunch. Do mention this when booking. Vegan can be more difficult – bring some of your own snacks to be safe.
• Is El Nido safe for solo travelers?
  Absolutely! El Nido is very popular among solo backpackers and is generally considered safe. The usual precautions apply: watch your valuables and don’t drink too much alcohol if you’re alone.
• What if my tour is canceled due to bad weather?
  This mainly happens in the rainy season (June-November). Most operators offer a full refund or the option to go on another day. That’s why you shouldn’t book your tour on your last day!

Last updated: October 2025 | All prices and information are current at time of publication but may change. Always check when booking for the most recent information.

Would you like to see some other adventures from the Philippines?

• Hiking to Osmena Peak – Cebu Island
• Daytrip on Bohol Island
• Walking the Ancient Old Rice Terraces of Banaue – Luzon
• Hiking to the Summit of Mt Pulag – The Philippines

Are you looking for a great spot to stay in El Nido? I had my two nights at Viewdeck Cottages: