Nestled in the northern tip of Palawan, the island town of El Nido is often dubbed one of the most beautiful places on Earth—and for good reason. With towering limestone cliffs, aquamarine lagoons, hidden beaches, and warm Filipino hospitality, El Nido offers a tropical experience that feels untouched, surreal, and deeply soul-stirring.
Whether you’re an adventure-seeker, digital nomad, or slow traveler in Southeast Asia, El Nido is a destination you must add to your list. Here’s a complete travel experience, enriched with visuals, local tips, and the magic of El Nido’s Tour A.
READ: 15 Essential Things to Know Before Traveling to the Philippines
Island-Hopping Tour A: The Heart of El Nido
El Nido is known for its legendary island-hopping tours, each labeled A through D. Tour A is by far the most popular—and for good reason. It includes Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Secret Lagoon, Seven Commandos Beach, and snorkeling stops that reveal the vibrant underwater world of Palawan.
Cultural Insight
Tour A reflects the essence of Filipino island life: a blend of natural wonder, seafaring tradition, and simple joy. Local guides often share myths tied to the limestone cliffs and islands, some believed to be sacred by Indigenous Palaw’an groups.
What to Expect
Tours start at El Nido Beach, with boats lined up and ready. Most tours include lunch—usually grilled seafood, fresh fruit, noodles, and rice—served on palm leaves. You’ll kayak, swim, and snorkel in the clearest water you’ve ever seen.
Digital Nomad Note
While El Nido town has stable Wi-Fi at most cafés and hostels, your island-hopping day will be completely offline. It’s the perfect digital detox—bring your GoPro or drone and prep your Instagram captions ahead of time.
Snorkeling in the Hidden Coves
El Nido’s snorkeling spots are otherworldly. Expect to swim between towering cliffs, into hidden coves, and above coral reefs teeming with life. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a sea turtle.
Cultural Insight
The marine ecosystem around El Nido is protected under a Marine Reserve status. Locals often speak of the importance of environmental stewardship here—so never touch coral or feed fish while snorkeling.
What to Bring
Pack a rash guard, eco-friendly sunscreen, and water shoes. Many tour boats will offer snorkeling gear, but bringing your own mask ensures a better fit and clearer views.
Digital Nomad Tip
For underwater content creators, El Nido is paradise. Whether you’re building a YouTube channel or selling stock footage, drone and underwater shots from these tours are golden content.
Kayaking Through Big Lagoon
One of the tour highlights is Big Lagoon, where you paddle through narrow entrances into a wide, turquoise chamber surrounded by steep rock walls. It’s quiet, mystical, and unreal.
Cultural Insight
Big Lagoon is often described as a “cathedral of nature.” Some locals believe it has healing energy due to its seclusion and tranquility. Paddling here feels sacred.
Pro Tip
Paddle rentals cost around PHP 300–400 (~$5–7). If you have time, ask your guide to go early to beat the crowds. Morning light also gives you the best color for photos and videos.
Digital Nomad Tip
Don’t miss capturing drone footage here if you have one. The contrast between limestone cliffs and clear water makes for unbeatable aerial content.
Secret Beaches & White Sands
After kayaking, you’ll dock at several small islands with impossibly soft, white sand. These beaches are the stuff of postcards: untouched, uncrowded, and peaceful.
Cultural Insight
Many of these beaches are only accessible by boat, preserving their beauty. Some have traditional nipa huts where locals once lived or rested during fishing trips.
What to Do
Swim, sunbathe, or simply walk the shore. It’s easy to feel like you’re in a movie. Many of these beaches, like Shimizu or Hidden Beach, have shallow lagoons perfect for kids or beginner swimmers.
Nomad Perspective
If you’re spending weeks in El Nido, visit different beaches outside of the main tours too. Las Cabanas Beach and Nacpan Beach are great remote work-friendly spots—with cafes that serve food and offer Wi-Fi.
Lunch on the Beach: A Filipino Feast
Lunchtime on the boat tour is a colorful, communal event. The guides prepare grilled squid, mussels, fresh fish, local fruits like mango and pineapple, pancit (noodles), and of course, rice.
Cultural Insight
This tradition of communal eating is rooted in Filipino “boodle fights,” where food is laid out on banana leaves and shared by hand. It’s about sharing, gratitude, and togetherness.
What to Expect
Most lunches are included in the tour cost. They’re fresh, healthy, and visually stunning. Expect biodegradable utensils and reusable plates, as sustainability is encouraged.
Nomad Tip
If you have food restrictions, inform your tour company ahead of time. Vegan or vegetarian versions are usually available with prior notice.
Where to Stay: Friend’s Hostel
Friend’s Hostel is a standout stay in El Nido—not just a hostel, but a resort-style accommodation with dorms, private rooms, and a rooftop pool.
Cultural Insight
Filipino hospitality is at its best here. Staff are welcoming, the vibe is social, and it’s a great place to meet fellow travelers from around the world.
Amenities
Each bed comes with privacy curtains, outlets, and even British-style plugs. There’s air conditioning, a cozy lounge, and yes—probably the only hostel rooftop pool in El Nido.
Nomad Bonus
Strong Wi-Fi, communal working spaces, and proximity to beach cafes make it an ideal spot for working travelers. Plus, pool parties and game nights are perfect for winding down after hours.
Seven Commandos Beach
This beach looks straight out of a tropical dream—with soft white sand, towering cliffs, and palm trees swaying in the breeze.
Cultural Insight
Seven Commandos Beach is named after a World War II tale where seven Japanese commandos were stranded here. Today, it’s a peaceful paradise known for volleyball, fresh coconuts, and snorkeling.
Activities
You can rent kayaks, play volleyball, snorkel, or sip rum & coke from the beach bar. It’s a social but relaxed atmosphere perfect for a few hours of island life.
Nomad Note
Bring some cash if you want drinks or souvenirs—there are no ATMs. There’s also no signal, so enjoy the rare chance to unplug completely.
Final Stop & Farewell
After the last beach stop, the boat slowly returns to El Nido town, often as the sun starts to dip. The glow over the ocean and cliffs creates a magical golden hour.
Cultural Insight
El Nido is a place where local traditions blend with backpacker energy. It’s not just about beaches—it’s about community, gratitude, and the joy of simple living.
What to Do Next
Head back into town, enjoy a meal by the water, or join a rooftop gathering at your hostel. Tour A may be over, but El Nido’s charm lingers long after the boat docks.
Nomad Reflections
If you’re a creative, photographer, or content creator, El Nido is a visual goldmine. For long-term travelers, this is a perfect reset—nature, connection, and beauty in one package.
Travel Essentials for El Nido
- Connectivity: Mobile data is decent with Globe or Smart SIMs
- ATMs: Limited; withdraw in Puerto Princesa if needed
- Best time to visit: November to May (dry season)
- Getting there: Fly into El Nido airport or take a ferry from Coron
Final Thoughts: El Nido Is Paradise—Still Untouched
If you’ve ever dreamed of swimming in surreal lagoons, exploring remote beaches, and connecting with warm, joyful people, El Nido is for you. But please—visit respectfully. Use reef-safe sunscreen, support local businesses, and help preserve this pristine paradise for generations to come.
