El Nido, Philippines

  • Best Months
    Jan - May

  • Average Temp.
    86°F (30°C)

  • Sea Temp.
    82°F (28°C)

  • Top Activity
    Island Hopping

Discover El Nido: A Complete Travel Guide

Your Remote Island Journey. Planned with clarity. Ready to enjoy.

El Nido is where classic postcard views meet a calm that feels unhurried. Limestone cliffs rise from clear water. Quiet lagoons sit between jungle-covered edges. This remote corner of Palawan has grown in popularity, yet it still holds places that feel untouched and personal.

Paddle through bright coves, kayak to hidden beaches, or climb to panoramic viewpoints. Whether you arrive on a modest budget or choose a premium stay, El Nido offers relaxed simplicity and comfortable places to enjoy your time.

El Nido is more than a view. From the moment you arrive, the pace shifts. The air feels still. The noise fades. Time slows and the experience becomes fully yours.

Start your day in glassy lagoons with perfect reflections. Slip through a narrow rock opening to a beach with no footprints. Watch a fisherman’s fresh catch turn into lunch cooked steps from the shore. End the evening with a sunset that turns the bay warm orange.

This is a place where adventure and quiet moments share the same space. You can join island-hopping tours across four routes or settle into one serene cove and let the day unfold however it wants.

Whether your stay is in a simple hut or a cliffside eco-villa, the trip becomes a memory while you are still living it. Long after you leave, what stays with you is not just the landscape but the feeling El Nido creates.

Ready to Turn Paradise Into Your Reality?

Whether you are dreaming or deciding, we make it easy. Browse our guide or jump straight into planning with the all-in-one EZ Planner.

Travel GuideTravel Plan

Best Time to Visit El Nido

Dry SeasonDecember to May

Dry season offers calm water, clear skies and warm light across the cliffs. It is ideal for island-hopping, diving and relaxed beach days.

Expect daily highs of 82 to 93°F (28 to 34°C) with humidity around 60 to 70%. Rain is minimal, skies stay clear and sunshine averages more than 9 hours per day.

This is the busiest period, so book early for the best options. April draws the most visitors.

Rainy SeasonJune to November

Rainy season brings a slower pace and a lush green landscape. The island becomes quiet and peaceful as the crowds thin out.

Expect temperatures around 78 to 86°F (26 to 30°C) with humidity above 85%. Rain showers can be heavy, especially in August and September. Monthly averages reach 14 to 20 rainy days.

This season suits travelers who enjoy calm moments, dramatic skies and flexible plans.

Tip: Visit in May or late December for a great balance of good weather, lighter crowds and comfortable rates.

How to Get to El Nido - Flights and Transfers

Philippines

Philippines

Reaching El Nido starts with an international flight to the Philippines. Most travelers arrive through Manila, then continue with a short domestic flight or a transfer by land. Here is how to get to El Nido smoothly and without stress.

Step 1: International Flight to Manila (MNL)

Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) is the primary international gateway. Most visitors land here before flying onward to Palawan.

Estimated Round-Trip Flight Times and Prices

Africa to Manila:From $75012-20 hrs
Asia to Manila:From $150-$4002-6 hrs
Australia to Manila:From $400-$9008-10 hrs
Europe to Manila:From $750-$1,30013-20 hrs
South America to Manila:From $1,400-$2,0001-2 days
US/Canada to Manila:From $650-$1,20014-24 hrs

Pro Tip: A layover of 3 hours or more is recommended in Manila. Transfers between terminals take time. Compare international flights on cheap flights finder.

Step 2: Getting to El Nido from Manila

Option A: Direct Flight to El Nido (ENI)

Direct flight from Manila to Lio Airport (ENI), located a short drive from El Nido town.

DurationAbout 1 hr 25 min
Price$100-$150 one-way
BaggageChecked bags are not included. Expect about $58 for 44 lb (20 kg).

The most convenient choice if you want the fastest and simplest arrival.

Option B: Manila to Puerto Princesa (PPS) + Van Transfer

A good budget alternative with frequent flights and flexible schedules.

Fly from Manila to Puerto Princesa (PPS).

DurationAbout 1 hr 15 min
Price$35-$70 one-way
BaggageChecked bags are not included. Expect about $58 for 44 lb (20 kg).

Continue with a shared van transfer to El Nido.

Duration5-6 hrs
Price$12-$20

Insider Tip: Private vans for up to 12 people cost about $115 total. Ideal for comfort or group travel.

Recommendation

  • Choose the direct flight if your schedule is tight.
  • Choose the Puerto Princesa route if you want to save money.
  • Aim to connect on the same day. A 3-hour buffer in Manila is ideal.

No matter how you arrive, treat the trip as part of the adventure. The drive through Palawan’s forests and the first glimpse of limestone cliffs set the tone for the days ahead.

Ready to plan your trip? Start mapping your route or use the EZ Planner to organize each step.

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Where to Stay in El Nido

El Nido offers everything from relaxed hostels to private island resorts. These stays are selected for comfort, value and location.

Current price range per night:

Best Things to Do in El Nido

El Nido is a place to slow down and enjoy the outdoors. From island hopping to quiet beach days, these activities offer a clear view of what makes this area special.

  • View Details

    Island Hopping (Tours A-D)

    Visit spots such as Big Lagoon, Secret Beach, Hidden Lagoon and Snake Island. These tours are the main way to explore Bacuit Bay.

    Must Visit

  • View Details

    Snorkeling and Diving

    See coral gardens and swim near turtles in Bacuit Bay. Certified divers can explore reef walls at South Miniloc.

  • Nacpan Beach

    A long stretch of quiet sand where you can relax, swim and enjoy simple beachside food and drinks.

  • Hike Taraw Cliff

    A steep climb that leads to wide views of El Nido town and the bay. Best at sunrise for cooler weather.

    Must Visit

  • Zipline at Las Cabañas

    Cross the water by zipline or enjoy a calm sunset from the beach. A good spot to end the day.

  • View Details

    Kayak to Hidden Beaches

    Rent a kayak and visit small coves that boats cannot reach. Good for slow days on the water.

    Must Visit

  • Explore Nagkalit-Kalit Falls

    A short jungle walk that leads to a cool waterfall and natural pool. Bring sandals or shoes that can get muddy.

    Must Visit

  • Beachfront Dining and Nightlife

    Have fresh seafood on the beach and visit relaxed bars with live music.

  • Lio Estate Sunset Walks

    A quiet area with shops, cafes and a wide beach that is ideal for sunset walks.

  • View Details

    Stand-Up Paddleboarding

    Smooth water and easy conditions in Cadlao Lagoon make this ideal for beginners.

  • View Details

    Discover Cudugnon Cave

    A limestone cave linked to early local history. Accessible by boat.

  • Birdwatch and Wildlife Spotting

    Look for kingfishers, monitor lizards and sea turtles along mangroves and quieter beaches.

El Nido Island Hopping: Tours A, B, C and D

Island hopping is the main activity in El Nido. Each tour offers a different mix of lagoons, beaches, snorkeling spots and limestone formations.

Shared tours cost about $20-$40. Private boats start at around $100. All tours include lunch and guides. Routes may vary slightly depending on sea conditions, but the main highlights stay the same.

Tour A: Lagoons and Limestone Views

Tour A features the lagoons that made El Nido famous. Expect calm water, tall cliffs and clear spots for snorkeling.

You will kayak through Big Lagoon, swim inside Secret Lagoon and stop at beaches suited for a simple break between activities.

  • Big Lagoon

    Kayak between limestone cliffs

  • Small Lagoon

    A quiet lagoon with smooth, shallow water

  • Shimizu Island

    Coral gardens and fish-filled water

  • Payong-Payong Beach

    A calm stop for rest and swimming

  • Secret Lagoon

    A small pool accessed through a narrow gap in the rocks

  • Seven Commandos Beach

    Relax under palms and drink fresh coconut

Big Lagoon
Big Lagoon
Small Lagoon
Small Lagoon
Secret Lagoon
Secret Lagoon
Shimizu Island
Shimizu Island
Seven Commandos Beach
Seven Commandos Beach
Payong-payong Beach
Payong-payong Beach

Departs daily at 9 AM, returns by 4 PM

Why we recommend it: Tour A is ideal for first-time visitors and offers classic lagoon views.

Tour B: Caves and Quiet Beaches

Tour B focuses on caves, sandbars and quieter islands. It is less busy than Tour A and offers a varied route.

Expect calm beaches, simple snorkeling spots and limestone formations shaped by the sea.

  • Snake Island

    Walk along a long sandbar in shallow water

  • Cudugnon Cave

    A cave linked to early island settlers

  • Cathedral Cave

    Tall rock walls seen from the boat

  • Pinagbuyutan Island

    Soft sand and good snorkeling near the shore

  • Entalula Island

    A quiet beach with clear water

Snake Island
Snake Island
Cudugnon Cave
Cudugnon Cave
Cathedral Cave
Cathedral Cave
Pinagbuyutan Island
Pinagbuyutan Island
Entalula Beach
Entalula Beach

Departs daily at 9 AM, returns by 4 PM

Why we recommend it: It is less crowded and offers a simple, quiet day around the bay.

Tour C: Remote Beaches and Snorkeling

Tour C covers more distant areas with dramatic cliffs and clear water. It is a good choice for snorkeling and quiet spots.

Expect longer boat rides and more open spaces around the islands.

  • Secret Beach

    A hidden beach behind a limestone wall

  • Hidden Beach

    A quiet lagoon between rock formations

  • Helicopter Island

    Snorkeling and a coastline shaped like a helicopter

  • Matinloc Shrine

    A viewpoint overlooking the bay

  • Star Beach

    A simple beach stop with clear water

Secret Beach
Secret Beach
Hidden Beach
Hidden Beach
Helicopter Island
Helicopter Island
Matinloc Shrine
Matinloc Shrine
Star Beach
Star Beach

Departs daily at 9 AM, returns by 4 PM

Why we recommend it: Tour C offers a quieter route with excellent snorkeling and open views.

Tour D: Calm Lagoons and Gentle Beaches

Tour D is slower-paced and focuses on beaches and lagoons close to town. It is a relaxed alternative to the more popular routes.

Expect calm water, short boat rides and smaller groups.

  • Pasandigan Beach

    A quiet beach suited for swimming and picnics

  • Cadlao Lagoon

    Shallow water surrounded by limestone cliffs

  • Paradise Beach

    A simple, peaceful beach stop

  • Natnat Beach

    Palm trees, shallow water and relaxed swimming

  • Bukal Island

    Small island with clear water and coral

Pasandigan Cove
Pasandigan Cove
Cadlao Lagoon
Cadlao Lagoon
Paradise Beach
Paradise Beach
Nat-nat Beach
Nat-nat Beach
Bukal Island
Bukal Island

Departs daily at 9 AM, returns by 4 PM

Why we recommend it: Tour D is quiet, easy and suitable for travelers who want a slow and simple day.

Where and What to Eat in El Nido

El Nido’s food scene ranges from simple grilled seafood to international comfort meals. Most dishes focus on fresh ingredients and straightforward flavors.

Filipino cuisine blends Malay, Chinese and Spanish influences. Expect grilled fish, citrus-based marinades, coconut stews and seafood served the same day it is caught.

Inihaw na Isda
Inihaw na Isda
Chicken Inasal
Chicken Inasal
Kinilaw
Kinilaw
Laing
Laing
Adobong Pusit
Adobong Pusit
Pancit Canton
Pancit Canton
Sisig
Sisig
Bistek
Bistek
Halo-Halo
Halo-Halo

Restaurants in El Nido

  • Artcafe4.1

    Artcafe

    Filipino, Seafood, Bar

    A long-standing spot serving Filipino dishes, coffee and simple international meals. Also a place to book tours.

    WebsiteMap
  • Thery’s Burgers, Fries & Shakes4.4

    Thery’s Burgers, Fries & Shakes

    American, European

    Burgers, fries and shakes. A simple comfort-food option near town.

    WebsiteMap
  • Osaka Castle4.3

    Osaka Castle

    Japanese, Sushi

    A small Japanese restaurant offering ramen, sushi rolls and fried dishes.

    WebsiteMap
  • Happiness Beach Bar4.5

    Happiness Beach Bar

    Mediterranean, Seafood, Bar

    Mediterranean dishes and cocktails in a casual beachfront setting.

    WebsiteMap
  • Piece Of Sky4.9

    Piece Of Sky

    International, Bar

    A quiet restaurant with bay views and international dishes.

    WebsiteMap
  • Sunmai4.7

    Sunmai

    Filipino, Pizza, Bar

    A beachfront place on Nacpan Beach with seafood, Filipino dishes and cocktails.

    WebsiteMap
  • Bella Vita4.7

    Bella Vita

    Italian, Pizza

    Italian food by the beach including pizza and simple salads.

    WebsiteMap
  • Ver De4.9

    Ver De

    Vegan, Vegetarian

    A plant-based cafe serving bowls, salads and simple smoothies.

    WebsiteMap
  • Punta Playa4.9

    Punta Playa

    Mediterranean, Filipino, Seafood

    A relaxed restaurant in Lio serving Filipino dishes with Mediterranean influences.

    WebsiteMap
  • Fuego4.7

    Fuego

    American, Bar

    A small grill serving burgers, ribs and simple bar snacks.

    WebsiteMap
  • Taste El Nido4.7

    Taste El Nido

    Vegan, Vegetarian, American

    A vegan cafe offering smoothie bowls, wraps and dairy-free drinks.

    WebsiteMap
  • Gusto Gelato4.4

    Gusto Gelato

    Italian, Dessert

    House-made gelato with local flavors such as ube and calamansi.

    WebsiteMap
  • Ashoka - Authentic Indian Cuisine4.7

    Ashoka - Authentic Indian Cuisine

    Indian, Vegetarian

    An Indian restaurant serving curries, naan and vegetarian dishes.

    WebsiteMap
  • Scape Skydeck4.6

    Scape Skydeck

    Filipino, American, Bar

    A rooftop restaurant with Filipino dishes, small plates and cocktails.

    WebsiteMap
  • The Beach Shack3.9

    The Beach Shack

    Filipino, American

    A casual beachfront place serving burgers and Filipino comfort dishes.

    WebsiteMap
  • Happy Home Restaurant4.8

    Happy Home Restaurant

    Filipino, Italian

    A small family-run restaurant known for pasta and Filipino dishes.

    Website
  • Big Bad Thai4.4

    Big Bad Thai

    Thai

    A simple Thai restaurant with noodles and curries. Good for groups.

    WebsiteMap
  • Lion’s Sunset Lounge4.8

    Lion’s Sunset Lounge

    Asian, Vegetarian, Bar

    Quiet dining with curries, vegetarian dishes and a wide view of the sunset.

    WebsiteMap

Essential Travel Tips for El Nido Visitors

1

The Best Way to Book Your Tours

Airport welcome offers are often overpriced, rushed and they have little flexibility. You’ll usually find more fair rates and warmer service by booking with local El Nido operators or trusted platforms like guided tour providers and experience platforms. Same paradise, without unnecessary add-ons.

2

The Island Runs Mostly on Pesos

1 USD ≈ ₱59 (Philippine peso). ATMs are available in town, but smaller shops, tricycle drivers and beach bars often accept cash only. Carry enough pesos for your daily plans to avoid mid-day ATM searches.

3

Pack Like a Pro

A dry bag, water shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, power bank and snorkel set make island days smoother and more enjoyable. Light to carry and useful for beaches, lagoons and boat tours, they quickly become essentials.

4

Air-Con Isn't a Luxury

Humidity can be intense. If you’re not used to tropical nights, choose a room with air conditioning. It helps you sleep comfortably and stay refreshed for the days ahead.

5

Bring a Universal Power Adapter

The Philippines uses Type A, B and C plugs at 220V. If your gear isn’t dual-voltage, check compatibility before packing. We travel with the universal adapter shown in the picture.
Universal adapter
6

Mind the Time Difference

Philippine Time (UTC+8) is +6 hours from much of Europe and +13 from the U.S. East Coast. Keep this in mind for calls, meetings and messages that might land at odd hours.

7

Thinking About Renting a Car?

A valid license is required and driving is on the right. Roads near town can be narrow, while routes farther out are more open and scenic. Local car rental comparison sites is our trusted option for clear terms and reliable vehicles.

8

Bring Your Own Toilet Paper

Many places in Asia use water instead of toilet paper. Hotels provide rolls, but for tours, flights, or roadside stops, a small pack of tissues or wet wipes is helpful.

For deeper insight, continue with Travel Tips from the EZ Paradise Creators.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to El Nido

Travel Requirements & Safety

Getting Around & Local Essentials

Planning Your Trip

Experiences, Nature & Culture

More FAQs

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