Things To Do
in El Nido
El Nido is a pristine coastal town in Palawan, renowned for towering limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and secret lagoons. It serves as the gateway to the Bacuit Archipelago, a maze of emerald lagoons, white-sand beaches, and snorkeling-rich reefs. The town blends laid-back island vibes with a growing dining and boutique-hotel scene, all set against dramatic seascapes.
While peak season can bring crowds, the scenery and activities—from island hopping to sunset views—make El Nido a bucket-list destination for nature lovers and adventure travelers alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in El Nido and check into your accommodation. Take some time to freshen up and settle into your surroundings while enjoying the local views. Grab a light breakfast at a nearby café to fuel your adventure.
Explore the local market and take in the vibrant colors and smells of fresh produce and local crafts. Visit the town's picturesque beaches and soak up the sun while wading into the clear waters. As the sun begins to set, stroll along the shoreline and capture the stunning views.
Enjoy dinner at a beachside restaurant, sampling fresh seafood. Listen to the sound of waves crashing as you relax with a tropical drink in hand. Wrap up your day by exploring the local nightlife, perhaps catching some live music.
Set off early for Island Hopping Tour A, starting with a hearty breakfast. Dive into crystal-clear waters at the Big Lagoon, admiring the majestic cliffs towering overhead. Enjoy swimming and snorkeling, surrounded by vibrant marine life.
Continue your adventure to the Small Lagoon, where you can kayak and take in the stunning natural beauty. Have a picnic lunch on Shimizu Island, savoring grilled fish and fresh fruits. Explore nearby snorkeling spots to witness the colorful coral gardens.
Return to El Nido and enjoy a leisurely evening stroll through the town. Treat yourself to a dinner of local delicacies, perhaps at a restaurant known for its adobo or sinigang. Conclude your day with a relaxing massage at a local spa.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $2-4 |
| 🚗Tricycle ride (short distance) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $40-100 |
| 🚤Island-hopping day tour (per person) | $25-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning limestone cliffs, lagoons, and clear water for breathtaking photos
- Wide range of island-hopping and marine activities
- Friendly locals and a relaxed, safe travel vibe
- Excellent seafood and beautiful beaches nearby
- Strong emphasis on eco-tourism and nature conservation
- Crowds in peak season and some higher prices during holidays
- Limited healthcare options on-island; serious cases require travel to Puerto Princesa
- Boat tours can be weather-dependent; some lagoons can get crowded
- Developing infrastructure in places; internet can be intermittent in remote areas
- Eco-tourism permitting and access rules vary by season
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
- "Pwede bang mag-order ng tubig?" - Can I order water?
Places to Visit in El Nido
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic cliff-top vantage on the western side of El Nido with sweeping views over Bacuit Bay and the town; best at sunrise but requires a steep ascent.
Spectacular limestone walls framing emerald water; photographable from the water or a kayak entry point.
A turquoise pool framed by sheer limestone cliffs; accessible by kayak and boat with a photo-worthy doorway.
Hidden pool behind a narrow entrance; photogenic cave-like opening and tranquil water.
Secluded white-sand cove reached via a short rock crawl and staircase; a quintessential El Nido shot.
Long sandy stretch with palm trees and blue water, classic for sunset silhouettes and beach portraits.
Silhouettes against a fiery sky over the clear sea; popular for golden-hour photos.
Forest trail leading to a refreshing waterfall; great for nature photography and jungle vibes.
Panoramic views over the Bacuit archipelago after a climb from the Cadlao Island area.
Food in El Nido
El Nido Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh, citrusy ceviche-style fish dish often served with chili, onions, and coconut vinegar; common at seaside eateries and boat lunches.
Must-Try!
Coconut milk-based dishes featuring local seafood; available in many restaurants.
Filipino adobo variant using local ingredients; found in many mid-range places.
Simple, delicious grilled fish with soy-lime dip; widely available along the waterfront.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling daytime market offering fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and inexpensive snacks—great for an authentic local meal or quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting villages and religious sites; ask for permission before taking photos of people or homes.
Avoid touching or stepping on corals while snorkeling; dispose of trash properly; use reef-safe sunscreen.
Filipino (Tagalog) and Palawan languages are common; English is widely understood in tourist areas; a simple hello and thank you go a long way.
Safety
Tipping in El Nido
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. For boat crews and guides, small tips (10-20 PHP per person for short trips, or 50-100 PHP for a full-day tour) are appreciated; larger tips for exceptional service. Restaurant service charges may be included; if not, a 5-10% tip is common. Cash in PHP is preferred for small tips.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and small eateries; many restaurants and some hotels accept credit cards, especially mid-range and upmarket places. ATMs are available in town, but may be limited in remote areas; carry enough cash for day trips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Calm seas and excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving; peak tourist season across December–April means more crowds and higher prices; bring sun protection.
Higher humidity with occasional rain and stronger winds; some boat tours may be canceled due to choppy seas, but lush scenery and fewer crowds persist.
El Nido at Night
Hiking in El Nido
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep ascent with a metal ladder and panoramic cliff-top views over El Nido and Bacuit Bay.
Challenging climb to a panoramic overlook of the archipelago from Cadlao Island.
Forest hike to a refreshing waterfall near Corong-Cong area.
Airports
How to reach El Nido by plane.
A small domestic airport serving flights from Manila and Cebu; convenient but weather can impact schedules; transfers to town take about 15 minutes by road.
Major gateway to Palawan with regular international and domestic flights; approximately 4-6 hours by road to El Nido depending on traffic and sea conditions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of indigenous communities and long-time residents.
Seasonal crowds from across the Philippines and the world.
A growing number of visitors staying longer to enjoy the scenery and work remotely.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Calm lagoons and sea routes ideal for single or tandem kayaks.
World-class reefs around Bacuit Archipelago with diverse marine life.
Boat-based exploration to lagoons, beaches, and reefs.
Calm waters near lagoons and beaches are suitable for stand-up paddling.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting El Nido.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for vegetable-based dishes, grilled vegetables, and fruit bowls; ask for no meat stock or fish sauce in sauces.