El Nido Travel Guide
At a glance
El Nido sits on the northern tip of Palawan. Karst cliffs surround a calm bay with small islands, lagoons, and long beaches. Much of the coastline and sea is protected. Expect clear water, soft sand, and quiet nights.
Where to go
- Dry months: November to May. Seas are calmer and days are sunnier.
- Wet months: June to October. Showers come and go; boat trips can be canceled if the coast guard says so.
If you want fewer people but good weather, try the shoulder weeks at the start or end of the dry season.
Getting there
Fly Direct to El Nido (Lio)
Lio Airport is about 20–30 minutes from town. It’s small and easy to navigate. AirSWIFT runs direct flights to and from Manila, Cebu, Coron, Caticlan, and Bohol, with routes changing by season
Airport transfer: Tricycles and shuttles wait outside. Travel time is short. Agree on the fare before you ride *There are only a few tricycles waiting outside, so for your convenience, we recommend booking your transfer ahead of time.
Fly to Puerto Prinesa, then go by road
More flights land in Puerto Princesa. From there, vans and buses run to El Nido. Expect around 5–6 hours in a van and a little longer by bus, depending on stops and roadwork.
Come by Sea from Coron
Fast ferries connect Coron and El Nido most days. Crossing time is roughly 3.30–5 hours, sea and operator depending
Getting Around
Tricycles handle most in-town trips. For day runs to out-of-town beaches like Nacpan, rent a scooter or hire a tricycle for the day. Roads are paved but can have rough patches after rain.
Money and connectivity
Cash is useful. ATMs exist but may be down or empty during peak hours or power issues. Many small shops are cash-only. Mobile data is fine in town and at Lio; expect weak or no signal while island-hopping.
Local Fees and Permits
Eco-Tourism Development Fee (ETDF): ₱400 per visitor, valid for 5 days
- Lagoon user fees: Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon usually require an additional ₱200 per person and are not limited to daily slots (Optional if entering the lagoons). Your boat operator or agent handles permits.
Faces of Humanity
Island Hopping Highlights
Big Lagoon
A wide jade-green channel opening into quiet water framed by high limestone walls. Kayaks glide over bright sand patches and sea grass.
Bring: phone, dry bag, water shoes, reef-safe sunscreen.
Be careful: sharp rocks at low tide, kayak traffic, and sun exposure. Slots are not limited to both low and high seasons.
Small Lagoon
A narrow entry leads into a still, echoing pool. Water is glassy on calm days. Good spot for a slow kayak loop.
Bring: compact towel, snorkel mask, cash for optional kayak.
Be careful: shallow coral near the entry and slick limestone. Slots are not limited to both low and high seasons. (CHEDKED AND VERIFIED 10-17-25)
Secret Beach
A short swim through a rock opening reveals a pocket of sand hidden from the sea. It feels remote even on busy days.
Bring: fins if you’re not a strong swimmer; a dry bag.
Be careful: surge at the opening, sharp rocks, and currents on windy days.
Hidden Beach
A quiet cove shielded by limestone. Feels like a natural pool when the sea is calm.
Bring: mask and snorkel.
Be careful: scattered coral heads—don’t stand on them.
Cadlao Lagoon
Calm, shallow water with bright greens and blues. Good for easy snorkeling and photos with the cliffs behind.
Bring: water shoes for rocky bits; extra water.
Be careful: jellyfish can appear seasonally—listen to crew advice.
Seven Commandos Beach
Long white shore with soft sand and gentle waves. Nice end-of-day stop when the light turns warm.
Bring: small cash for a coconut; sandals.
Be careful: boat traffic near drop-off points.
Shimizu / Entalula / Talisay areas
Coral patches, turtles now and then, and classic El Nido “postcard” colors.
Bring: snorkel set, rash guard.
Be careful: avoid standing on coral; watch for boat lines.
Snake Island (Vigan)
A sandbar arcs between two land points. Great at mid-tide when most of the bar is out.
Bring: hat, sunglasses.
Be careful: strong sun with little shade; currents off the edges of the bar.
Matinloc Shrine area
Cliff views and deep blue water nearby. Some boats stop for photos and a short look-around.
Bring: sturdy sandals if you plan to climb stairs.
Be careful: slippery steps after rain.
Cudugnon / Cathedral Caves
Small caves in the limestone with cool shade and echoing chambers.
Bring: light shirt; phone light for darker corners.
Be careful: slick rocks and low ceilings.
General boat tips
- Pack light: reef-safe sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, quick-dry towel, refillable water bottle, and a dry bag.
- Food and trash: most boats provide lunch; take your trash back to shore.
- Safety: wear the life jacket when told; follow the crew if the coast guard changes the plan.
- Respect the bay: don’t touch coral, don’t feed fish, and don’t collect shells.
Good Spots on Land
- Nacpan Beach: long, open shore with a relaxed feel. About 45–60 minutes from town.
- Lio Beach: near the airport; cafés and a family-friendly setup.
- Taraw view area / canopy walk: big views over Bacuit Bay with guided access; wear proper shoes.
Practical Basics
- Language: Filipino and English are widely understood.
- Power: 220V, 60Hz; plug types A/B/C.
- Health and safety: seas get choppy in the rainy months; listen to crew guidance. Minor power or water interruptions can happen; plan around them with a bit of cash and patience.
Quick Answers
How long to stay?
Three to four full days cover two boat days and a land day. A week is better if you want diving or a Coron add-on.
Can I day-trip to Coron?
Yes, it is possible.
Do I need to pre-book?
In high season, yes—especially for lagoon slots and kayaks. In quieter months, --booking the day before often works
Short Checklist Before You Go
- Cash for small shops and island extras
- Dry bag, water shoes, and a refillable bottle
- Reef-safe sunscreen and a light long-sleeve top
- Phone, power bank, and basic meds for motion or sun
- Confirmation of ETDF and any lagoon fees for your dates