El Nido

A breathtaking aerial view of the lush green islands of El Nido, Philippines, surrounded by crystal blue waters.
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El Nido presents a blend of breathtaking natural beauty and tranquil escapes, distinguished by its dramatic limestone formations and clear, emerald waters. It serves as a gateway to pristine white-sand beaches and lagoons, inviting visitors to engage in island-hopping adventures, snorkeling, and kayaking.

The town center of El Nido acts as a central point for social interaction, particularly as evening approaches. Areas like Ama Street and El Nido Beach host a variety of bars and clubs, with notable spots such as Pukka Bar and Sava Beach Bar offering spaces to socialize. Depending on the season, a vibrant food market also adds to the communal atmosphere.

Top 5 Things to do in El Nido

Activities in El Nido primarily involve exploring the breathtaking Bacuit Bay through island hopping, discovering pristine beaches, experiencing panoramic viewpoints, and engaging with its rich underwater world.

1. Island Hopping Tour A

Embarking on Tour A allows for an exploration of El Nido's iconic lagoons and beaches. Kayaking into the Big Lagoon, with its towering limestone cliffs and serene, mirror-like waters, feels like entering a hidden world. Discovering the Secret Lagoon requires swimming through a small opening in the rocks, revealing a secluded natural pool. Shimizu Island offers excellent snorkeling opportunities amidst vibrant coral gardens, often serving as a lunch stop. The tour typically concludes with relaxation at Seven Commandos Beach, a picturesque stretch of white sand lined with palm trees.

Cost: Group tours for Tour A typically range from ₱1,200 to ₱1,400 per person. An Eco-Tourism Development Fee (ETDF) of ₱400 per person is required for Bacuit Bay visits, valid for 10 days. The Big Lagoon has an additional entrance fee of ₱200 per person, and kayak rentals for exploring the lagoons are around ₱250-₱300 for a two-seater.

Transport: Island hopping tours typically depart from the main town beach in El Nido, which is usually within walking distance from many accommodations or a short tricycle ride.

2. Island Hopping Tour C

Tour C uncovers more of El Nido's secluded wonders, including hidden beaches and unique islands. Swimming through a crevice leads to the Hidden Beach, a tranquil, secluded spot that feels like a secret paradise. The Secret Beach, accessible through a narrow gap in the rock formations, offers a sense of seclusion surrounded by dramatic cliffs. Helicopter Island, named for its distinctive shape, provides excellent snorkeling opportunities. This tour also includes a visit to the Matinloc Shrine.

Cost: Group tours for Tour C are generally priced between ₱1,400 and ₱1,500 per person. The Eco-Tourism Development Fee of ₱400 (if not already paid for another tour) covers access to the sites.

Transport: Similar to Tour A, departures are from El Nido town, accessible by foot or short tricycle ride.

3. Visit Nacpan Beach

Nacpan Beach offers a vast stretch of pristine white sand, providing a more relaxed atmosphere away from the main town. It is known for its serene environment and the picturesque 'Twin Beach' view, where a sandbar connects Nacpan to Calitang Beach. This is an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying a quiet beach day.

Cost: There is a nominal entrance fee of ₱50 per person to access the beach.

Transport: Nacpan Beach is approximately 45 minutes to an hour north of El Nido town. Shuttle vans offer round-trip transfers for about ₱600 per person, or ₱350 for a one-way trip. A tricycle can be hired for a round-trip costing around ₱1,000 for 2-3 people. For more independence, motorbikes can be rented for ₱400-₱1,000 per day.

4. Taraw Cliff Canopy Walk

For those seeking panoramic views without the strenuous Taraw Cliff climb, the Canopy Walk provides a safer alternative. This experience involves ascending a series of stairs and crossing a hanging bridge to a viewpoint that offers breathtaking vistas of El Nido town and the surrounding Bacuit Bay. It is considered a 'rock climbing lite' experience, making it accessible to a wider range of visitors.

Cost: The cost for the Canopy Walk typically ranges from ₱600 to ₱800 per person.

Transport: The Taraw Cliff Canopy Walk is situated close to El Nido town proper, making it easily accessible by walking or a very short tricycle ride.

5. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

El Nido's underwater realm is as captivating as its island formations, boasting an incredibly diverse marine ecosystem. Diving and snorkeling tours allow visitors to explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating marine life. Popular dive sites include South Miniloc, known for its extensive cabbage corals and schooling fish, and Nat Nat, ideal for macro diving to spot seahorses. Advanced divers can explore the unique Dilumacad Tunnel, a 35-meter horizontal tunnel. While some areas have seen environmental impact, many sites continue to offer rich biodiversity.

Cost: Snorkeling gear is often provided as part of island hopping tours. Standalone snorkeling gear rental can be around ₱150-₱200. The cost for scuba diving packages varies depending on the dive center, duration, and number of dives. This typically includes gear, divemaster services, and boat transfers.

Transport: Dive shops and tour operators are primarily located within El Nido town, with boats departing from the main bay area. No additional transport costs are usually incurred beyond the package price.

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