El Nido Public Market
A bustling hub of local life, offering fresh produce, seafood, and a vibrant glimpse into El Nido's authentic culture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Market day buzz
El Nido Public Market
Best Time
Market day buzz
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling hub of local life, offering fresh produce, seafood, and a vibrant glimpse into El Nido's authentic culture.
"Prices are cheap! I was shocked when i compare the prices in my hometown!"
🎯 Haggle Politely
Prices can be a bit high, but polite negotiation can yield better deals. :moneywithwings:
🐟 Beware of Seafood Mix-ups
Be cautious when buying seafood; some vendors might mix large with small items. :warning:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fresh Seafood Galore
Seafood Section
Witness an incredible array of fresh fish, crabs, and shellfish straight from the boats. A true taste of El Nido's bounty.
Vibrant Produce Stalls
Produce Section
Discover a colorful variety of local fruits and vegetables. Perfect for a healthy snack or ingredients for your own meals.
Local Life Immersion
Throughout the Market
Soak in the bustling atmosphere, observe local interactions, and capture cinematic shots of daily life in El Nido.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Market Day Buzz
Navigating Prices
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Haggle Politely
Prices can be a bit high, but polite negotiation can yield better deals. :moneywithwings:
🐟 Beware of Seafood Mix-ups
Be cautious when buying seafood; some vendors might mix large with small items. :warning:
📸 Capture the Vibe
The market is a photographer's dream with vibrant colors and energy. :camera: 
🥥 Taste Local Flavors
Try local coconut vinegar or other street food delights for an authentic taste. :food:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Haggle Politely
Prices can be a bit high, but polite negotiation can yield better deals. :moneywithwings:
🐟 Beware of Seafood Mix-ups
Be cautious when buying seafood; some vendors might mix large with small items. :warning:
📸 Capture the Vibe
The market is a photographer's dream with vibrant colors and energy. :camera:
🥥 Taste Local Flavors
Try local coconut vinegar or other street food delights for an authentic taste. :food:
⏰ Early Bird Gets Fresh
Arrive early for the freshest produce and seafood, especially on market days. :sunrise:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
El Nido Public Market offers a vibrant and authentic local experience, with many visitors praising the affordability and freshness of produce and seafood. While some find prices a bit high or encounter minor issues with vendors, the market remains a must-visit for its lively atmosphere and cultural immersion.
"It's a market that sells a variety of fruits, veggies, etc, there are also stalls that sell clothing and other stuff, I think they also have meat and fish."
Craig Lock
"Nice to find fresh fish and seafood but dont buy a shrimp in the end of the coner i bought a big size 650 php but they mix with the a lot of small one, they are cheater !!!
Less of the shop are good but a bit expensive from Prince."
Channy B.
"Every Wednesday and Saturday is market day, where smaller stalls are set up selling fresh produce. On other days you can also get fresh produce. Lots of nice options."
Joyce Roxanne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The El Nido Public Market is centrally located in El Nido town. You can easily reach it by tricycle from most accommodations. If you're exploring by scooter, it's a prominent landmark near Corong-Corong Beach.
Yes, the market is a major hub for transportation. Mini-buses and vans to other parts of Palawan, as well as local tricycles, are readily available in front of the market.
If you're staying in El Nido town proper, it's a walkable distance. Many accommodations are within a short stroll.
Renting a scooter is a popular way to explore El Nido and its surroundings, including the market.
Yes, Corong-Corong Beach is very close to the market, offering beautiful sunset views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the El Nido Public Market is free. It's a public space where locals and tourists can browse and shop.
The market is generally open daily from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. However, specific stall hours can vary. Market days with extra stalls are typically Wednesdays and Saturdays.
There are no specific entrance fees for sections within the market itself. Any fees mentioned in relation to El Nido usually pertain to island hopping tours or environmental charges.
Generally, no. While it's always respectful to ask before taking close-up photos of individuals, there's no official fee for general photography within the market.
To avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting on a weekday morning before the main rush, or in the late afternoon. Market days (Wed/Sat) will naturally be busier.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
You can find a wide variety of fresh produce, seafood, meat, local snacks, clothing (both used and new), and other local goods. +1
Many visitors find the prices to be cheap, especially for fresh produce and local items, often cheaper than in tourist shops. However, some items can be a bit expensive. +1
Yes, you can find some locally made crafts and clothing that can serve as souvenirs, though it's not a dedicated souvenir market.
Bargaining is common in Philippine markets. It's recommended to do so politely and compare prices before making a purchase.
Look for fresh, exotic fruits, local delicacies, and perhaps some unique textiles or handicrafts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are small restaurant stalls within or near the market where you can try local dishes and fresh seafood.
You can find fresh seafood, grilled meats, local Filipino dishes, and various snacks.
While the focus is on seafood and meat, you can usually find fresh fruits and vegetables, and some stalls might offer vegetable-based dishes.
Generally, street food in the Philippines is safe if prepared hygienically. Look for stalls that are busy and appear clean.
There are cafes like Masa Bakehouse and Dayo Cafe located near the market that offer breakfast and coffee.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The market offers vibrant colors, bustling activity, and authentic local scenes, making it a fantastic spot for photographers.
Early mornings offer softer light and less crowded scenes. Mid-day can be harsh but offers high energy. Late afternoons can also provide beautiful light.
Capture the fresh seafood displays, colorful produce, vendors at work, and the general lively atmosphere of the market.
It's always good practice and respectful to ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially vendors.
There are no official restrictions on photography within the public market.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Tips for families: Visit during less crowded hours if possible, perhaps a weekday morning. Keep a close eye on children in the bustling environment. Consider trying some local fruits or snacks together for a shared culinary adventure.
💰 Budget Travelers
Tips for budget travelers: This is the place to buy fruits for your island hopping tours to save money. Compare prices for souvenirs and be prepared to haggle politely. You can also find affordable meal options at the market's food stalls.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Photography tips: Aim for early morning or late afternoon light. Focus on details like fresh produce displays, seafood arrangements, and vendor interactions. Always be respectful and ask permission before photographing individuals up close.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heartbeat of El Nido: A Local Market Experience
For visitors, the market offers a genuine glimpse into Filipino culture. The air is filled with the calls of vendors, the aroma of fresh food, and the vibrant colors of tropical produce. It's a sensory experience that stands in contrast to the more curated tourist spots. While some vendors might be keen to sell, a friendly demeanor and a willingness to engage can lead to delightful interactions.
+1Beyond the produce and seafood, you can also find clothing, household items, and local snacks. It’s a place where you can truly feel the pulse of El Nido, away from the usual tourist trails. Remember to bring cash, as most vendors do not accept cards, and be prepared for a bustling, sometimes chaotic, but always authentic environment.
Navigating the Seafood Scene
+1However, as with many bustling markets, it's wise to be a discerning shopper. Some travelers have noted instances where seafood was mixed with smaller, less desirable items, or prices might be inflated for tourists. It's recommended to compare prices from different vendors and inspect the quality of the seafood before purchasing.
Despite these potential pitfalls, the opportunity to buy incredibly fresh seafood at potentially lower prices than in restaurants makes the market's seafood section a must-visit for culinary adventurers. You can often have your catch cooked at nearby eateries, offering a truly local dining experience.
Photography Opportunities at the Market
+1Early mornings often provide the best light for photography, with a softer glow and fewer crowds. However, the midday energy and the late afternoon hues can also yield stunning images. Focus on capturing the details: the glistening scales of fish, the intricate patterns of woven baskets, or the expressive faces of the local vendors.
While the market is generally welcoming to photographers, it's always a good idea to be respectful. Ask for permission before taking close-up portraits of individuals. This simple courtesy can lead to more authentic and engaging photographs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit