El Nido
El Nido, Palawan is a jaw-dropping archipelago of limestone karsts, turquoise lagoons, and white-sand beaches that somehow remains remarkably affordable for the level of natural beauty on offer. Island-hopping tours, fresh seafood, and budget guesthouses make it one of Southeast Asia's best-value tropical escapes.
Why go to El Nido
Big Lagoon (Island Hopping Tour A)
Paddle into an enclosed emerald lagoon ringed by soaring limestone cliffs on the classic Tour A route.
Small Lagoon
Rent a kayak and weave through a narrow rock passage into a hidden, mirror-calm sanctuary.
Nacpan Beach
A four-kilometer stretch of golden sand that rivals any beach in the world, often crowd-free by afternoon.
Shimizu Island
One of El Nido's premier snorkeling spots bursting with coral gardens and sea turtles on Tour C.
Cadlao Lagoon
A quieter, newer tour destination offering dramatic karst scenery and crystal-clear waters without the crowds.
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Good to know in El Nido
- Transit: Tricycles within El Nido town cost $0.50-1; shared vans to Puerto Princesa run ~$10-12 and take 5-6 hours, book a day ahead through your guesthouse.
- Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated; $1-2 tip per person for island-hopping boat crew is customary and goes a long way locally.
- Tap water: Do not drink tap water in El Nido, buy large refillable gallons from water refilling stations for about $0.30, far cheaper than bottled water.
- Free-entry days: Most beaches and public areas are free; the Environmental User Fee (EUF) of ~$10 is a one-time charge required for all visitors to El Nido's protected areas and covers all tours.