Papaya Beach
A hidden paradise in El Nido with pristine white sands, clear waters, and vibrant snorkeling, best reached by kayak for a secluded escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter before tour boats arrive
Papaya Beach
Best Time
Quieter before tour boats arrive
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden paradise in El Nido with pristine white sands, clear waters, and vibrant snorkeling, best reached by kayak for a secluded escape.
"Highly recommend renting a kayak and visiting at your own pace! "
Kayak for Seclusion
Rent a kayak from Corong Corong for a peaceful arrival and to avoid tour crowds. :kayak:
Snorkel Paradise
Bring your gear! Fantastic snorkeling with turtles and Nemo fish awaits. :fish:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pristine White Sands
Powdery white sand meets crystal-clear turquoise waters for an idyllic tropical escape.

Vibrant Snorkeling
Nearshore reefs
Discover colorful coral reefs, diverse fish species (including Nemo!), and even sea turtles.
Secluded Serenity
Escape the crowds by kayaking here, offering a peaceful retreat away from busy tour routes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Kayak to Papaya Beach
Your El Nido Island Escape
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Kayak for Seclusion
Rent a kayak from Corong Corong for a peaceful arrival and to avoid tour crowds. :kayak:
Snorkel Paradise
Bring your gear! Fantastic snorkeling with turtles and Nemo fish awaits. :fish:
Hydration Station
A vendor sells cold drinks and snacks on the beach. :tropical_drink:
Part of Tour B
This beach is often included in El Nido Tour B. :boat:
Tips
from all over the internet
Kayak for Seclusion
Rent a kayak from Corong Corong for a peaceful arrival and to avoid tour crowds. :kayak:
Snorkel Paradise
Bring your gear! Fantastic snorkeling with turtles and Nemo fish awaits. :fish:
Hydration Station
A vendor sells cold drinks and snacks on the beach. :tropical_drink:
Part of Tour B
This beach is often included in El Nido Tour B. :boat:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Papaya Beach is lauded for its pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters, and excellent snorkeling opportunities, including sightings of turtles and diverse fish. Many visitors appreciate the option to kayak for a more secluded experience, escaping the crowds of popular tour spots. While a vendor offers refreshments, some wish for more variety.
"Another great beach to kayak to from Coring Corong beach. It can be a bit choppy if the wind is up. But their is a vendor on the beach that sells cold drinks and snacks.
The snorkelling is fantastic nice corals,fish and turtles. Lots of shade and silica white sand with a dramatic cliff and rainforest backdrop. Highly recommend visiting this beach!"
michael wendt
"Great beach is part of tour b.
We have a free ride from our hotel.
But you can do it with kayak or ask in the port a boat"
yaron ashual
"Accessible by kayak, we were the only people on this beach. This site is incredibly well maintained and clean."
Daniel DuPlessis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Papaya Beach is most famously reached by renting a kayak from Corong Corong beach, which takes about 30 minutes. It's also accessible via boat tours, often as part of El Nido Tour B. Some visitors mention getting a free ride from their hotel, so inquire locally.
Yes, Papaya Beach is accessible by boat and is a common stop on El Nido island hopping tours, particularly Tour B.
Absolutely! Kayaking from Corong Corong beach is a popular and recommended way to visit Papaya Beach, offering a more private experience.
The kayak trip from Corong Corong beach to Papaya Beach typically takes around 30 minutes.
Yes, Papaya Beach is often included in El Nido island hopping tours, with Tour B being a common option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information regarding specific entrance fees for Papaya Beach is not widely available, but it's often included in tour packages or accessible via kayak rentals.
As a natural beach, Papaya Beach doesn't have official opening hours. However, it's best visited during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
Yes, Papaya Beach is frequently included in El Nido island hopping tours, such as Tour B. You can book these through local tour operators or online platforms.
While generally open, it's good to be aware that boats are sometimes restricted from stopping directly at Papaya Beach, encouraging kayak access.
Yes, independent visits are highly recommended, especially by renting a kayak, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and excellent snorkeling with diverse marine life. Some visitors also mention beach games.
Snorkeling at Papaya Beach is highly rated, with clear waters revealing beautiful corals, various fish species, and even sea turtles.
Specific facilities like restrooms and showers are not commonly mentioned. It's advisable to come prepared and use facilities before or after your visit.
The sand at Papaya Beach is described as silica white and powdery, contributing to its pristine beauty.
When accessed by kayak, Papaya Beach is often much quieter than nearby popular spots like Seven Commandos Beach. Tour boats do visit, so timing your visit can help.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a vendor on the beach that sells cold drinks and snacks, though the variety might be limited.
Bringing your own food and drinks is generally a good idea, especially if you want more options than what the beach vendor offers.
Papaya Beach has a restaurant and bar that is now open, offering dining options for visitors.
The restaurant at Papaya Beach offers a variety of food and drinks, catering to beachgoers.
Specific dietary options are not detailed, but it's recommended to inquire directly with the restaurant or vendor upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning white sand, crystal-clear waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and lush rainforest backdrop. The drone footage often highlights the beach's beauty.
Yes, drone footage of Papaya Beach showcases its secluded beauty and surrounding dramatic landscapes, offering unique aerial perspectives.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides softer light for photography, and can also coincide with fewer visitors.
Absolutely! The clear waters make it ideal for underwater photography of the vibrant fish and turtles.
The dramatic limestone cliffs that frame the beach are a significant photographic element, adding to its picturesque scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💖 Couples & Relaxation Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Accessing Papaya Beach: Kayak vs. Tours
Alternatively, Papaya Beach is a popular inclusion on El Nido island hopping tours, most notably Tour B. While this offers convenience and a structured itinerary, it means sharing the beach with other tour groups. Visitors on tours might not get to linger as long or experience the same level of quiet as independent kayakers. Ultimately, the choice depends on whether you prioritize a peaceful, self-guided exploration or a more organized, group-based adventure.
Underwater Wonders: Snorkeling at Papaya Beach
While a vendor on the beach sells some drinks and snacks, it's advisable to bring your own snorkeling gear to ensure a comfortable and personalized experience. The visibility is generally excellent, allowing for clear views of the underwater spectacle. Whether you arrive by kayak or on a tour, dedicating time to explore the underwater world at Papaya Beach is a must-do activity.
The Papaya Beach Experience: Beyond the Sand
For those looking for refreshments, a vendor on the beach offers cold drinks and snacks, providing a convenient way to stay hydrated and fueled. Additionally, Papaya Beach now features a restaurant and bar, expanding the amenities available to visitors. This means you can enjoy a meal or a drink with a view, enhancing the overall beach experience. Whether you're relaxing on the sand, exploring the underwater world, or enjoying a meal, Papaya Beach provides a well-rounded tropical getaway.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit