Some of the big names in Philippine tourism that certainly attracted millions of tourists from different parts of the world include Boracay, Siargao, Bohol, Batanes, and Palawan. All of these wondrous places offer an escape to a tropical paradise you wouldn’t find anywhere else! Well, especially Palawan, which is considered the “Last Frontier of the Philippines” where most of the country’s pristine natural wonders still thrive and survive.
The entire province of Palawan is indeed overflowing with white sand beaches, towering karst limestone formations, and amazing lagoons, but trust me, it absolutely rises to another level when you visit the famous islands of El Nido.
El Nido is a municipality of Palawan which became known worldwide for its stunning natural attractions that will certainly blow your mind. From tantalizing lagoons with crystal clear waters, rocky islands, and of course, abundant marine and aquatic ecosystems. Due to the widespread popularity of El Nido, a massive influx of tourists flock to the municipality almost all year round. You also won’t be disappointed with the countless fun and exciting activities you can enjoy in El Nido such as island hopping, diving, swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, and more! There are lots of hidden caves, lagoons, and beaches still waiting to be explored and discovered here in El Nido. So it’s definitely the perfect destination for an adventurer like you!
Well, shall we begin? I know that you can’t wait any longer! Join me as we both explore the 15 Best Tourist Spots of El Nido!
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1. Big Lagoon
Whether it’s from the top of the sky or with your own naked eyes, nothing can really compare with the astounding beauty of El Nido’s Big Lagoon. It’s one of the most famous attractions you shouldn’t miss to explore and it is included in the island hopping tours as well. Big Lagoon is located within Miniloc Island and is characterized by its towering limestone cliffs surrounding a turquoise blue body of water where visitors can calmly kayak their way inside.
Well, you can also swim your way out from the opening all the way to the lagoon itself. The phenomenal sight of the lagoon is indeed one of the reasons why hundreds of thousands of tourists consider it the most beautiful place in El Nido. Oh, and if you can, I suggest you bring your own drone cameras to capture Big Lagoon’s beauty from up above!
READ THE BLOG POST: Big Lagoon in El Nido: Just like a fantasy movie
2. Nacpan Beach
Nacpan Beach is probably the most accessible natural wonder in El Nido as it’s located near several establishments like hotels, restaurants, and transport terminals. But those are not the only reasons why Nacpan Beach became a fan favorite! The creamy white sand beach stretches for about 4 kilometers with just a few to no traces of rocks and corals at all.
With crystal clear waters, tropical coconut trees, and an exciting nightlife experience, your visit to Nacpan Beach will absolutely be one of the best. Oh, and aside from bar hopping, food trips, and chilling by the beach, be sure not to miss out on enjoying the blissful view of the setting sun here in Nacpan Beach. The crimson skies along with the gentle rustling of waves are something worth remembering indeed.
READ THE BLOG POST: Nacpan Beach: One of El Nido’s Best Beaches
3. Secret Beach
Ah, the name itself makes you want to explore it even more, right? Well, this precious gem that’s secretly tucked within the giant gray limestone karsts on one side of Matinloc Island will definitely give you tropical paradise vibes you wouldn’t forget. Famously known as the Secret Beach, this attraction can only be accessed by passing through a very small crevice that is bounded by sharp-edged limestones.
the Beach
With crystalline waters, a small white sand beach, and lush forests at the back, you’ll realize that Secret Beach seems to be a perfect set for Cast Away, right? Well, it’s indeed a tropical paradise I would want to get lost in! After you’re done admiring the blissful ambiance and beauty of Secret Beach, make sure to have some fun by swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and taking lots of Instagram-worthy pictures inside!
READ THE BLOG POST: The Secret Beach of El Nido, Palawan
4. Hidden Beach
Have you ever been a fan of Finding Nemo? Well, most of us were and still are huge fans of Disney films that’s why I’m sure everyone knows who Nemo is! Our next destination is another stunning attraction featuring ivory white sands, azure blue waters, and enchanting limestone cliffs.
But not only that but it’s also known as a haven for the endangered species of clownfish. Yup, that’s the iconic Hidden Beach of El Nido for you! This must-visit destination is usually included in Tour C packages and it is undeniably the main highlight of the entire experience. Take your time to breathe in the beauty of Hidden Beach as well as the stunning creations of nature you’ll never forget.
READ THE BLOG POST: Uncovering the hidden beachof El Nido
5. Small Lagoon
Known as the amazing spot that serves as a perfect welcome to everyone visiting El Nido is the one and only Small Lagoon. It’s usually the first stop of several tour packages on Miniloc Island and it certainly doesn’t disappoint! Huge limestone rocks guarding the turquoise waters of Small Lagoon will be the first things you’ll encounter as you kayak your way inside. Entering Small Lagoon on a kayak is definitely an experience you shouldn’t miss. It’s like entering the mouth of a humongous sea monster!
As you head out of Small Lagoon, expect that you’ll have to wait for other tourists to successfully exit because the passage is very small. So take your time exploring a little bit more and take awesome pictures as souvenirs!
Oh, and you’ll also have an option of whether to continue kayaking all the way to the Big Lagoon or simply head back to the tourist boat and wait for the others. For the adventures that we are, you already know what’s the perfect choice!
READ THE BLOG POST: AirSwift Flights to El Nido 2023
6. Shimizu Island
Natural beauty at its finest, that’s definitely one of the most fitting ways to describe the majestic scenery of Shimizu Island. Just like everything else, you can only reach this island through one of El Nido’s island hopping tours. Shimizu Island is a grand destination where you can find several white sand beaches and hidden lagoons tucked within the towering limestone cliffs that surround it.
I’d say that it would take you a whole day just to explore the entirety of Shimizu Island. Well, even with the limited time at hand, I’m sure that you can still enjoy an amazing experience! You can go swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling all you want. Even explore the colorful coral reefs of the island if you must. Trust me, the vibrant and turquoise waters of Shimizu Island will definitely make you want to jump right in!
7. Seven Commandos Beach
Another beautiful beach destination worth visiting in El Nido and certainly one of the most popular is the Seven Commandos Beach. It’s usually jam-packed with tourists because it’s the first stop for most boats that are going on island hopping tours. The beach features iconic limestone karst formations and pristine white sands along with the turquoise waters of the beach. Seven Commandos Beach features a nice and relaxing tropical vibe, especially with the lush forest behind you with hundreds of coconut trees. This beach is included in Tour Package A where you’ll most likely explore Small Lagoon and Big Lagoon right after. Oh, and after enjoying and admiring its beauty, you can also order some refreshing drinks to quench your thirst!
Approaching the island 🙂
Ah, yes. You may be wondering how the beach got its intriguing name, right? Well, there have been many stories about the exact origin of Seven Commandos Beach but probably the most plausible one is that seven soldiers were stranded here during World War II, hence its iconic title.
8. Las Cabañas Beach
Next, let me bring you to the one and only Las Cabañas Beach of El Nido! This popular beach destination is famous for its peaceful and laid-back vibes which lets you enjoy El Nido’s majestic beauty even better. Actually, what the visitors of Las Cabañas Beach really want to witness is the mesmerizing scenery of the crimson sunset on this side of El Nido. Some even claim that it’s absolutely one of the best sunsets you’ll see in entire Asia! So don’t be surprised when you see lots of tourists laying down on the beach, finding the best spots, and drinking their favorite cocktails while waiting for dusk. There are also numerous bars and restaurants lined along Las Cabañas Beach so don’t miss out on trying some of them!
Well, Las Cabañas Beach isn’t only for peaceful and serene vacations because you certainly can also have some adrenaline-pumping action if you want! There’s the incredible Las Cabañas Zipline where you can enjoy breathtaking views of El Nido and a whole lot of fun as well!
9. Snake Island
And there it is! Another fan favorite island destination in El Nido goes by the intriguing name of Snake Island. This tropical wonder located in Taytay, El Nido became known for its stunning sandbar that’s shaped like an “S” or some may say, a snake. It’s just a small islet that’s connected to the main island of Palawan through a 3-kilometer white sand bar that’s surrounded by turquoise waters. It’s indeed an amazing experience to walk along the iconic sandbar while admiring the stunning beauty of the place. After exploring the beach, I suggest you take some time to hike atop the hill on Snake Island where you can witness the breathtaking view of its entirety. Trust me, its beauty will absolutely blow you away!
10. Helicopter Island
You’ve heard of Snake Island, Crocodile Island, Turtle Island, and more unique-shaped islands, right? But have you ever seen a Helicopter Island? I know. That sounds impossible! Well, just wait ‘till you see Dilumacad Island which is amazingly shaped like a helicopter from a distance away. Some say that it looks like an airplane, a fried chicken drumstick, and many more but it’s officially hailed as the Helicopter Island, just without the propeller.
As you draw nearer to the wondrous island, you’ll surely be entranced by its white sand beaches, stunning rock formations, and crystalline turquoise waters. Of course, you’ll never miss the huge limestone formations filled with lush forests towering above Helicopter Island. It is indeed a sight worth seeing in one of your island hopping tours!
11. Talisay Beach
Our next destination is usually included in Tour Package C and is known for its secluded location which therefore allows visitors to enjoy its beauty all by themselves. Yup! I’m talking about the ever-beautiful Talisay Beach. Some say that it has the bluest waters on the entire island of El Nido. Well, I guess you should come and see for yourself!
There are tall limestone formations surrounding the small white sand beach where you can simply relax and busk under the sun all you want. Talisay Beach is definitely a perfect spot to take some awesome pictures because there are only a handful of tourists at times. So if I were you, I’d take all the beautiful pictures I can get!
12. Star Beach
Star Beach is one of those underrated beach destinations that are overshadowed by nearby attractions included in Tour A. Well, the great thing about that is you can have this phenomenal beach all to yourself! Aside from its powdery white sands and azure waters that are undeniably wonderful, Star Beach is also a famous snorkeling site. It has a wide swimming area with crystal clear waters where you can freely explore the thriving aquatic life underneath.
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You’ll see lots of incredible corals, colorful fishes, and other marine animals underneath! Star Beach is also a nice spot to relax and just admire the breathtaking scenery of the island.
13. Maremegmeg Beach
Ah, if you’re tired of island hopping tours and simply want to enjoy a leisurely walk by the beach while sipping on your favorite Margherita, then staying at Maremegmeg Beach will surely do you wonders! It’s one of the most accessible beach destinations near the town capital where dozens of bars and restaurants are lined up to bring you the best tropical island experience you can ever imagine. With its beautiful golden sands and azure blue waves of seawater rustling down your feet, I’d say that it’s one of the perfect spots to witness the iconic sunset of Palawan. Feel free to breathe in the fresh air as you spend your well-deserved vacation along the incredible Maremegmeg Beach.
14. Taraw Cliffs
Hmm, have you had enough of the memorable island hopping tours of El Nido? Well then, let me take you to another breathtaking experience you’ll never forget. We’re now conquering the iconic Taraw Peak of El Nido! This 45-minute journey is perfect for adrenaline junkies out there who are so in love with outdoor experiences.
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In case you’re wondering, Taraw Cliffs is located right at the heart of El Nido Town Proper, it’s actually the most dominant peak in El Nido so it’s definitely impossible to miss. The hike wouldn’t be as easy as you think so I suggest that you hire a tour guide to help you navigate faster. Once you reach the top, you’ll have the chance to witness El Nido’s grand panoramic beauty with your own eyes. It’s absolutely a majestic feeling to reach Taraw’s Peak so don’t forget to take awesome pictures as remembrance!
15. Matinloc Shrine
Finally, let us end our glorious adventure in El Nido by visiting the Matinloc Shrine, the incredible religious symbol of El Nido’s Matinloc Island. It’s actually an abandoned shrine located in the island’s western region which is sheltered by huge limestone karsts. Aside from the breathtaking scenery around Matinloc Shrine, its most prominent highlight is no other than the statue of the Virgin Mary under a small pavilion. It is where tourists from different parts of the world pause briefly and offer their prayers for a safe and amazing adventure in Palawan. See? What a fitting end for our wondrous voyage indeed. Till next time!
FAQ: Best Tourist Spots in El Nido
1. What are the must-visit beaches in El Nido?
Nacpan Beach: Known for its pristine golden sands and clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Las Cabanas Beach: Offers stunning sunsets and a relaxed vibe, ideal for a tranquil day by the sea.
2. Are there any famous lagoons in El Nido?
Yes! The Big and Small Lagoons: These are a must-visit. The Big Lagoon is perfect for kayaking, while the Small Lagoon offers a serene spot for swimming in its clear, turquoise waters.
3. Can I go island hopping in El Nido?
Absolutely! Island hopping is a popular activity. Tours A, B, C, and D are offered by many operators, each showcasing different islands and beaches.
4. What are some good snorkeling spots?
Simizu Island: Known for its vibrant marine life and clear waters.
Matinloc Shrine: Offers not just snorkeling, but also a glimpse into the local history.
5. Is there a place for hiking enthusiasts?
Taraw Cliff: For the adventurous, a hike up Taraw Cliff provides breathtaking views of the El Nido bay.
6. Any recommendations for unique experiences?
Visit the Secret Beach: Accessible only by swimming through a small opening in a limestone cliff, it’s a hidden gem.
Explore the Caves: Cudugnon and Cathedral caves are known for their impressive formations and historical significance.
7. Are there any cultural spots to visit?
Yes, the Ille Cave: It’s not just a natural wonder but also an archaeological site, offering insights into the region’s history.
8. What’s the best time to visit El Nido?
Dry season (December to May): This is the best time to visit for sunny weather, though it’s also the peak tourist season.
