El Nido is a tropical paradise in Palawan famous for its towering limestone karst cliffs, hidden lagoons, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The best time to visit is during the dry season from December to May, when the weather is ideal for island hopping and exploring secret beaches.
Top Things to Do in El Nido
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Getting Around El Nido
From the Airport
Van Transfer. Shared or private vans operate from Lio Airport directly to El Nido town, taking about 30-45 minutes and costing roughly 300-500 PHP. Tricycle. For the final stretch from the van terminal to your specific hotel, local tricycles are the primary mode of transport and cost a small fixed fee.
Once You're There
Tricycle. The most common way to get around town and to nearby beaches; always confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey. Walking. The main town of El Nido is very compact and easily explored on foot, though the streets can be narrow and busy. Scooter Rental. Renting a scooter is a popular and affordable way to explore further north to Nacpan Beach, provided you have an international driving permit.
Where to Stay in El Nido
Hotel picks for El Nido are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in El Nido
Bella Vita El Nido★ 4.8 (2,760)Corong Corong Beach, El Nido, Palawan, PhilippinesOffers a stunning beachfront setting at Corong Corong perfect for sunset dining with Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Happiness Beach Bar★ 4.7 (2,976)Serena St, Buena Suerte Pob. (Barangay 2), El Nido, Palawan, PhilippinesFamous for its Middle Eastern falafel platters and vibrant swing-seat atmosphere right on the shore.
The Nesting Table★ 4.6 (100)Sitio Pakalsada, El Nido, 5313 Palawan, PhilippinesLocated at The Birdhouse, this restaurant offers incredible farm-to-table breakfast views overlooking the jungle canopy.
Big Bad Thai★ 4.4 (2,111)C. Hama, El Nido, 5313 Palawan, PhilippinesConsistently praised for its bold, authentic flavors and spicy curries that provide a welcome change from local fare.
Gusto Gelato★ 4.4 (915)C. Hama, El Nido, 5313 Palawan, PhilippinesThe go-to spot for artisanal Italian-style gelato to cool down after a long day of island hopping.
La Plage★ 4.4 (830)LORENZO Baryo, Corong-corong Pob. (Barangay 4), El Nido, 5313 Palawan, PhilippinesA chic beach club known for its upscale French-inspired menu and sophisticated cocktails by the water.
Trattoria Altrove★ 4.3 (1,301)Calle Hamma, 59JR+HFF, C. Hama, Buena Suerte Pob. (Barangay 2), El Nido, Palawan, PhilippinesRenowned for its authentic wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta that draw long queues every evening.
Dos Mestizos★ 4.3 (1,216)Boracay Island Across Seawind Resort, Station 1 Main road, Balabag, Malay, 5608 Aklan, PhilippinesCelebrated for its traditional Spanish tapas and paella that reflect the cultural heritage of the Philippines.
Artcafe★ 4.2 (2,173)Serena St, Buena Suerte, El Nido, 5313 Palawan, PhilippinesA long-standing El Nido institution serving fresh seafood and locally sourced organic greens in a rustic, artistic space.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in El Nido
The Iconic Lagoons
Morning. Start your first day by heading to the El Nido town pier to board your outrigger boat for the classic Tour A. Your first stop is the breathtaking Big Lagoon, where you can kayak through emerald waters framed by dramatic limestone walls. Arrive early to beat the crowds and fully appreciate the serene scale of the cliffs. After taking countless photos, your boat will move toward the Secret Lagoon, accessible only through a small hole in the rock. Wear water shoes, as the seabed can be rocky, and keep your dry bag handy for your electronics.
Afternoon. Continue your island adventure by heading to Shimizu Island for a fresh picnic lunch prepared by your boat crew on the beach. Spend the afternoon snorkeling in the vibrant coral reefs surrounding the island, which are teeming with tropical fish. Next, make your way to Seven Commandos Beach to relax on the fine white sand and enjoy a refreshing coconut. This beach is the perfect spot to recharge before heading back to the mainland. Be sure to apply plenty of reef-safe sunscreen, as the sun reflects intensely off the white sand.
Evening. Return to the main town area as the sky begins to turn golden and head straight to Trattoria Altrove for their legendary wood-fired pizza. The atmosphere is bustling and lively, making it the perfect place to discuss the day's sights with fellow travelers. After dinner, take a slow stroll along the beach path to Artcafe to check out their local art displays and perhaps grab a nightcap. The town center is very walkable, so enjoy the cool evening breeze as you navigate the narrow streets back to your accommodation.
Nacpan Beach & Jungle Vibes
Morning. Rent a scooter or hire a tricycle from the town center to embark on an hour-long journey north to Nacpan Beach. This four-kilometer stretch of golden sand is one of the most beautiful in the Philippines and feels worlds away from the busy boat tours. Spend your morning swimming in the gentle waves or simply lounging under the shade of the coconut trees that line the shore. It is significantly quieter here than the main town, providing a relaxing start to your day. Pack a towel and plenty of water, as the ride can be hot and dusty.
Afternoon. For lunch, grab a casual meal at one of the rustic shacks right on the sand at Nacpan Beach, where you can enjoy fresh grilled fish while watching the surf. Afterward, consider a short hike to the nearby Calitang Beach viewpoint to see the unique twin-beach formation where two coastlines meet. This vantage point offers a fantastic perspective of the rugged Palawan landscape. Spend the rest of the afternoon reading or napping on the sand, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of this remote coastal gem. The return trip to town is a great time to enjoy the scenic countryside views.
Evening. Head back to the Corong Corong area, which is famous for its spectacular sunset views that differ from the harbor view in town. Settle into a table at Bella Vita El Nido to enjoy a cocktail while the sky shifts through shades of orange and purple. The vibe here is more laid-back and sophisticated compared to the central tourist hub. Stay for a delicious Mediterranean dinner as the stars come out over the Bacuit Bay. It is the perfect way to wind down after a day spent exploring the northern coastline.
Hidden Coves and Cliffs
Morning. Kick off your final day with Tour C, which is widely considered the most scenic boat tour in El Nido. Your first major stop is the Hidden Beach, tucked behind limestone formations and only accessible by swimming through a small opening. The sense of discovery here is unmatched, and the water is incredibly clear. Keep your camera inside a waterproof bag during the swim to ensure your gear stays dry. After exploring the hidden cove, your boat will navigate toward the dramatic rock formations of Matinloc Island for more exploration.
Afternoon. Continue the tour by visiting the famous Snake Island, a unique sandbar that snakes through the water during low tide, connecting two islands. Walk across the sandbar for a surreal experience and take photos from the small hill at the end for an elevated view. Afterward, head to Helicopter Island to snorkel in the deep, blue waters surrounding the limestone cliffs that resemble a helicopter from a distance. The marine life here is diverse, so make sure to bring your snorkel mask. This is often the highlight for many visitors due to the sheer beauty of the rock structures.
Evening. For your final evening, challenge yourself with a sunset hike up Taraw Cliff to get a bird's-eye view of the entire El Nido town and bay. This is a strenuous climb, so ensure you have a local guide and proper footwear, but the panoramic reward is arguably the best in the province. Once you descend, reward your efforts with a hearty Spanish-inspired dinner at Dos Mestizos. It’s a fantastic place to reflect on your three-day journey while enjoying some of the best food in the region. End your trip with a final gelato from Gusto Gelato as you walk along the shore one last time.