El Nido Beachfront El Nido
El Nido, Palawan: A tropical paradise with dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons, and pristine beaches. Famous for island hopping and breathtak...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for sunsets
El Nido Beachfront El Nido
Best Time
Golden hour for sunsets
Highlights
Must-see attractions
El Nido, Palawan: A tropical paradise with dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons, and pristine beaches. Famous for island hopping and breathtaking sunsets.
"El Nido is one of the prettiest towns, with beautiful beaches and easy swimming when the island hopping boats are gone."
🌅 Sunset Spot Secrets
Las Cabanas Beach is the go-to for sunsets, but explore other viewpoints for a less crowded experience.
🚤 Island Hopping Essentials
Book tours in advance! Tour A is popular for lagoons and beaches like Secret Lagoon & 7 Commandos.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Las Cabanas Beach
Near El Nido Town
Famous for its breathtaking sunsets and vibrant beach bars. Perfect for a relaxed evening with drinks and stunning views.
Nacpan Beach
North of El Nido Town
A long, pristine stretch of golden sand with clear waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Offers a more tranquil escape.
Secret Lagoon
Island Hopping Tour A
A hidden gem accessible through a small opening, revealing a secluded turquoise lagoon surrounded by limestone cliffs.
Seven Commandos Beach
Island Hopping Tour A
A picturesque beach with soft sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation after island hopping.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for El Nido
Embrace the Island Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunset Spot Secrets
Las Cabanas Beach is the go-to for sunsets, but explore other viewpoints for a less crowded experience. +1
🚤 Island Hopping Essentials
Book tours in advance! Tour A is popular for lagoons and beaches like Secret Lagoon & 7 Commandos. +1
💰 Budget-Friendly Stays
El Nido Garden Resort offers affordable stays near the beach and town.
🚶♀️ Town Beach Walks
El Nido town beach is surprisingly clean and great for evening strolls, though swimming might be restricted.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunset Spot Secrets
Las Cabanas Beach is the go-to for sunsets, but explore other viewpoints for a less crowded experience. +1
🚤 Island Hopping Essentials
Book tours in advance! Tour A is popular for lagoons and beaches like Secret Lagoon & 7 Commandos. +1
💰 Budget-Friendly Stays
El Nido Garden Resort offers affordable stays near the beach and town.
🚶♀️ Town Beach Walks
El Nido town beach is surprisingly clean and great for evening strolls, though swimming might be restricted.
🛵 Scooter Rentals
Rent a scooter for 500 PHP/day to explore nearby beaches like Nacpan. Plenty of parking available.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
El Nido is celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty, particularly its stunning islands, lagoons, and beaches, offering a paradise-like experience. Visitors often praise the vibrant sunsets and the lively yet relaxed atmosphere. However, some reviews mention concerns about cleanliness on the town beach and potential environmental issues, though many appreciate local cleanup efforts.
"Was surprised with El Nido Beach, it was CLEAN despite being in town. Water was clean without any garbage floating, the beach side was clean also, did not see garbage littered along the beach. Whatever they are doing they should keep on doing.
I dont know if Swimming is allowed since there are No Swimming signs, but there are quite a number of people swimming and no one is asking them to leave."
Vic Mayor
"In my opinion, El Nido is one of the prettiest towns. We were there for scuba diving. We stayed in town to have easy access to the dive centre, shops, restaurants, and the beach. We liked the beach very much. See the first photos. When the island hopping boats are gone, the beach is very quiet. Swimming is easy there. One must be careful when swimming if the boats are returning, but it's generally okay. The boats approach the shore carefully, disembark the guests, and immediately leave.
There are lots of other beaches around which are accessible from land or via island hopping tours. They are all beautiful. I must say I was pretty impressed with the El Nido beach. In the evenings, after dinner, it was nice to walk on the beach.
Full sunset, however, isn't observable from the beach due to the hill there. But no worries, nearby beach which everyone goes is great to enjoy the sunset."
meltem kogelbauer
"Very nice beach, a lot of fun to walk and many cosy bars. You're not allowed to swim in it for some reason, though lots of people do it anyway. There may be some trash lying around, but the locals organise cleanups every saturday which is a great initiative!!"
Arthur Bulcke
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to fly from Manila to El Nido (ENI) or to Puerto Princesa (PPS) and then take a van to El Nido. Flights to El Nido are more direct but can be pricier. Vans from Puerto Princesa take about 5-6 hours.
El Nido town is quite walkable. For exploring further afield, tricycle rides are readily available for short distances, and renting a scooter is a popular option for visiting nearby beaches like Nacpan.
Yes, there are direct flights to El Nido Airport (ENI) from Manila and some other domestic locations. These flights are operated by smaller airlines and can be more expensive than flying into Puerto Princesa.
Island hopping tours are the primary way to explore the stunning islands and lagoons around El Nido. These tours typically use motorized bancas (outrigger boats) and can be booked as group tours or private charters.
The van ride from Puerto Princesa to El Nido typically takes around 5 to 6 hours, depending on road conditions and stops. It's a scenic journey through Palawan's landscapes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It's highly recommended to book your island hopping tours in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and preferred tour. You can book through your accommodation or local tour operators.
El Nido has an environmental fee, often included in tour packages or collected separately. This fee contributes to the conservation efforts in the area. Check with your tour operator for specifics.
While many of El Nido's famous beaches are accessed via island hopping tours, some land-accessible beaches like Nacpan Beach may have a small entrance or environmental fee.
El Nido town beach is generally accessible throughout the day and into the evening. While there are 'No Swimming' signs, many visitors do swim, especially after the island hopping boats have departed.
Yes, private island hopping tours are available in El Nido. This offers more flexibility in terms of itinerary and timing, but it comes at a higher cost compared to group tours.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Tour A is highly recommended for its lagoons (Secret Lagoon, Big Lagoon) and beaches (Seven Commandos Beach). Tour C is known for Hidden Beach and Matinloc Shrine. +2
Reviews are mixed. While some find it clean and good for evening strolls, others note boat traffic and potential pollution. Swimming is technically discouraged but often done.
Beyond the tour islands, Las Cabanas Beach is famous for sunsets, and Nacpan Beach offers a long stretch of sand. Vanilla Beach is also a beautiful option. +2
El Nido has a vibrant nightlife with beach bars, live music, and some clubs. TownSquare El Nido is a hub for evening activities.
There have been reports of environmental challenges, including water and sewage issues, leading to stricter monitoring. Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of their environmental impact.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
El Nido town offers a variety of dining options, from local eateries to beachfront restaurants. TownSquare El Nido is a trendy spot with multiple food choices.
Yes, many resorts and beach clubs offer beachfront dining experiences. Bayview Resort and Angkla Beach Club are known for their scenic dining.
Seafood is a must-try in El Nido, given its coastal location. Look for fresh grilled fish, squid, and other local delicacies. Many restaurants offer Filipino favorites as well.
Absolutely! Beyond the resorts, you can find affordable local eateries and street food stalls in El Nido town offering delicious and budget-friendly meals.
While seafood is prevalent, many restaurants in El Nido are becoming more accommodating to dietary needs. It's advisable to check menus or inform your server about your preferences.
📸 📸 Photography
The limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons, and pristine beaches are incredibly photogenic. Secret Lagoon, Big Lagoon, and Entalula Island are particularly stunning. +2
The 'golden hour' just before sunset and the early morning light offer the most beautiful, soft lighting for photography. Midday sun can be harsh. +1
Drone usage might be restricted in certain areas, especially within national parks or near resorts. Always check local regulations before flying your drone.
Many travelers rave about the views from viewpoints like Piece of Sky for panoramic shots. The beaches themselves, like Nacpan and Las Cabanas, offer endless photo opportunities. +1
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. Waterproof protection for your camera or phone is essential for island hopping and beach activities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider accommodations that offer family rooms or amenities. While El Nido town beach has some restrictions, it can be a convenient spot for a quick dip or a sunset stroll with younger children, especially in the early evening before boat traffic picks up.
💰 Budget Travelers
Group island hopping tours are much more economical than private ones. You can often negotiate prices or find package deals. Eating at local eateries and 'carinderias' (small local eateries) in town will save you money compared to tourist-focused restaurants.
🌅 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Many resorts offer beachfront rooms or private villas with ocean views, perfect for couples. Look into boutique hotels like Panorama Boutique Hotel & Beach Club for a stylish and romantic stay.
Enjoying dinner at a beachfront restaurant with the sound of the waves and a starry sky overhead is an unforgettable experience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Island Hopping Adventures
When booking, consider whether you prefer a group tour for a more social experience or a private tour for more flexibility and personalized stops. Many tours include lunch, snorkeling gear, and life vests. Remember to bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine ecosystem.
Some travelers mention that while the town beach has 'no swimming' signs, many people still swim there, especially in the evenings. However, the true aquatic paradise lies in the surrounding islands, where the water is crystal clear and teeming with marine life.
Beaches: From Town to Paradise
For a more classic beach experience, Las Cabanas Beach is a must-visit, especially for its spectacular sunsets and lively beach bars. It's easily accessible from town and offers a great spot to unwind.
Other notable beaches include Vanilla Beach, known for its beauty, and Maremegmeg Beach, which is close to Las Cabanas and offers a relaxed vibe. For those seeking truly secluded spots, the islands visited on tours like Entalula Island offer postcard-perfect scenery.
Accommodation & Budget Travel
Other budget-friendly options can be found scattered throughout the town. For those seeking a more upscale experience, beachfront resorts like Angkla Beach Club & Boutique Resort on Nacpan Beach offer a luxurious escape with stunning ocean views.
+1 Hotels like Panorama Boutique Hotel & Beach Club are also well-regarded for their beachfront location and proximity to town and Maremegmeg Beach. It's worth noting that El Nido is often compared to more expensive destinations like Bora Bora or the Maldives, but offers a significantly more accessible price point for similar natural beauty, making it a fantastic value for travelers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit