nature
Big Lagoon
Stunning lagoon surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, perfect for kayaking
Best timeNovember - May
Duration4-5 days
Budget / day₱3,000 - ₱8,000
From Manila1 hour direct
Plan trip with AIOverview
The lay of the land
El Nido is a Philippine municipality on Palawan island, known for white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and as the gateway to the Bacuit archipelago. Its dramatic limestone karst cliffs, hidden lagoons, and crystal-clear waters make it one of the most stunning destinations in Southeast Asia.
Palawan is an archipelagic province of the Philippines that is located in the region of Mimaropa. It is the largest province in the country in terms of total area, with 14,649.73 km2 (5,656.29 mi2). It is also at the crossroads of two island groups: Visayas and Luzon. The capital and largest city is Puerto Princesa which is geographically grouped with but administered independently from the province. Palawan is known as the Philippines' Last Frontier and as the Philippines' Best Island.
Travel guide
El Nido is a coastal town in Palawan. El Nido comprises 45 islands and islets; limestone cliffs are also found here, which form a Karst backdrop similar to those found in Ha Long Bay, Krabi and Guilin. It is a popular destination for locals during the long holidays of the Holy Week, but has been relatively unknown to foreign tourists. El Nido is more than just a stereotypical tropical paradise. Beaches, clear waters, jungle, steep limestone cliffs and stunning inlets make for one of the world's most beautiful seascapes.
Get inGet aroundSeeDoEat
Highlights
01
Pristine limestone cliffs and lagoons
02
World-class island hopping tours
03
Some of the clearest waters in the Philippines
04
Gateway to the Bacuit Archipelago
What to see
Top attractions
nature
Small Lagoon
Intimate lagoon accessible through a small opening in the rocks
nature
Secret Lagoon
Hidden lagoon reached by swimming through a hole in the limestone
beach
Nacpan Beach
4km stretch of golden sand, one of the best beaches in the Philippines
beach
Snake Island
Unique S-shaped sandbar connecting to a small island
nature
Shimizu Island
Excellent snorkeling spot with vibrant coral and fish
beach
Seven Commandos Beach
Beautiful beach with a local bar, perfect for sunset
nature
Twin Lagoon
Two lagoons separated by a rock formation with a secret passage
How to spend the days
Things to do
Sponsored
Island Hopping Tours PH
Official Tour Operator
Premium island hopping with small groups, gourmet lunch, and professional guides. Tours A, B, C, and D available.
4.8 (1,523)
₱1,800 - ₱2,500Book Tour
Activity
Island Hopping Tour A
Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island
Guide price₱1,200-1,500
Activity
Island Hopping Tour B
Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, Cathedral Cave
Guide price₱1,300-1,600
Activity
Island Hopping Tour C
Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Helicopter Island
Guide price₱1,400-1,700
Activity
Scuba Diving
Explore coral gardens and marine life at various dive sites
Guide price₱1,800-3,500
Activity
Kayaking
Paddle through lagoons and along limestone cliffs
Guide price₱300-500
Activity
Cliff Jumping at Big Lagoon
Jump from limestone cliffs into crystal-clear waters
Guide priceFree with tour
Activity
Nacpan Beach Day Trip
Relax on one of the best beaches, tricycle ride from town
Guide price₱500-800 roundtrip
Gallery
See it first
Logistics
Getting there
Nearest airportLio Airport (ENI) or Puerto Princesa (PPS)
From Manila1 hour direct flight to Lio, or 1.5hr to Puerto Princesa + 5hr van
Travel options
- Direct flight to Lio Airport (AirSWIFT)
- Fly to Puerto Princesa + 5-6 hour van ride
- Ferry from Coron (3.5 hours)
Loading map...
Eat
Local food
Crocodile Sisig
Local delicacy - crocodile meat cooked sisig style
Fresh Seafood
Grilled fish, shrimp, and squid fresh from the sea
Tamilok
Woodworm eaten raw - a unique Palawan delicacy for the adventurous
Chicken Inasal
Grilled chicken marinated in local spices
Sleep
Where to stay
Featured stay
Nacpan Beach Glamping
Beachfront Glamping Experience
Wake up to stunning Nacpan Beach views in our luxury safari tents. Perfect for couples and adventurers.
BeachfrontBreakfast IncludedSunset Views
₱4,500 - ₱8,000/night
4.7
El Nido Town Proper
Most restaurants, bars, and tour operators. Walking distance to everything.
Nightly range₱1,500-5,000/night
Corong-Corong
Quieter beach area, great sunsets, 10 min from town
Nightly range₱2,000-8,000/night
Nacpan/San Fernando
Remote beach area, peaceful, best for relaxation
Nightly range₱1,000-4,000/night
Lio Estate
Upscale resort area near Lio Airport
Nightly range₱8,000-25,000/night
Start here
Ready to explore El Nido?
Let our AI help you plan the perfect itinerary — day by day, around your budget and travel window.