Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Helicopter Island, El Nido - Image 1
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Secret Beach Matinloc

4.8
·70 reviews·, Philippines

A secluded paradise accessible only by swimming through a narrow cliff opening, offering a magical hidden beach experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning departures

Beat the crowds

CrowdMedium
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Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Helicopter Island, El Nido - Image 1

Secret Beach Matinloc

Best Time

Morning departures

Beat the crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A secluded paradise accessible only by swimming through a narrow cliff opening, offering a magical hidden beach experience.

4.8
(70 reviews)

"An unbelievable hidden gem! Secret Beach can only be reached with Tour C, and it’s worth every moment."

Vertical photo
TIP

Swim Through the Entrance

Be prepared to swim through a small opening in the rocks to reach the beach. :athletic_shoe:

Tour C is Essential

Secret Beach is only accessible via El Nido Tour C. Book in advance! :admission_tickets:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Secret Swim-Through

The Secret Swim-Through

Entrance to Secret Beach

Swim through a narrow opening in the limestone cliffs to discover a hidden paradise.

Secluded White Sand Beach

Secluded White Sand Beach

Secret Beach

A pristine white sand beach framed by towering karst cliffs, offering a sense of exclusive discovery.

Hidden Chamber

Hidden Chamber

Within Secret Beach

Discover a small, dome-like chamber with sunlight filtering from above – a truly unique experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tour in Advance

Secret Beach is exclusively accessible via El Nido Tour C. Booking your tour ahead of time, especially during peak season, is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Many tours depart early, so plan your day accordingly.

Check the Tides and Weather

Access to Secret Beach is dependent on calm seas and favorable weather conditions. High tide can make entry and exit difficult or impossible. Tour operators monitor this, but flexibility is key for a smooth visit.

Best Times

When
Morning departures
Why
Beat the crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Calm sea conditions
Why
Easier access
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Worth the hike #beach #secretbeach #hike #explor #fyp
@didi14310
385.4K likes • 1.8M views

Swim Through the Entrance

Be prepared to swim through a small opening in the rocks to reach the beach. :athletic_shoe:

Tour C is Essential

Secret Beach is only accessible via El Nido Tour C. Book in advance! :admission_tickets:

Secret Lagoon ❤️ thanks to Sir John, our tour guide for this trip for making this possible. #elnido #palawan #secretlagoon #adventure
@abeejjj
181.2K likes • 2.4M views
Day 3 El Nido Tour ☑️Hidden Beach ☑️Helicopter Island ☑️Secret Beach ☑️Talisay Beach ☑️Matinloc Shrine
ynnejboa
1 likes • 112 views

Watch for High Tide

Entry can be tricky during high tide. Guides often hurry visitors due to changing conditions. :warning:

Capture the Magic

The swim-through and secluded beach are incredibly photogenic. :camerawithflash:

Ma dernière excursion à El Nido: Talisay Beach🏝️ Secret Beach🐠 Hidden Beach☀️ Matinloc Shrine 🍽️ Helicopter Island 🚁 La suite sera en stories… ☺️ #elnidopalawan #touraelnidopalawan #plongéesousmarine🐟🐙🐠🐡🐚 #tourism #marocaine
ladij_bsd
92 likes • 3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Swim Through the Entrance

Be prepared to swim through a small opening in the rocks to reach the beach. :athletic_shoe:

Tour C is Essential

Secret Beach is only accessible via El Nido Tour C. Book in advance! :admission_tickets:

Watch for High Tide

Entry can be tricky during high tide. Guides often hurry visitors due to changing conditions. :warning:

Capture the Magic

The swim-through and secluded beach are incredibly photogenic. :camerawithflash:

It's Worth the Hike

The journey to this beach is part of the adventure and absolutely worth it. :hiking_boot:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(70 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Secret Beach is an unforgettable hidden gem, lauded for its unique swim-through access and stunning natural beauty. While it can get crowded, the magical atmosphere and the thrill of discovery make it a standout destination on El Nido's Tour C. The secluded cove and hidden chamber add to its allure, making it a must-visit for many.

"An unbelievable hidden gem! Secret Beach can only be reached with Tour C, and it’s worth every moment. Accessible only when the weather is good and the sea is calm but once inside, it’s pure magic surrounded by towering limestone cliffs."

Shar G

"The beach is amazing, with stunning views of rocks, greenery, and absolutely beautiful water. Consider that since many people come here, the beach can get crowded. However, it would not minimise your appreciation of the setting."

Reza Sattarzadeh Nowbari

"This is another gem of the El Nido tour C. The rock formations and beaches are so cool. Our tourguide hurried us here, because he mentioned if the high tide comes, we can't get in or get out of this beach."

Chandra Kanth Reddy

What People Like

Unique swim-through access
Stunning limestone cliffs
Secluded beach atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can get crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Secret Beach is exclusively accessible as part of El Nido Tour C. You'll need to book a boat tour that includes this destination. Tours typically depart from El Nido town proper. Instagram+2

No, independent visits are not feasible due to its secluded location and the need for boat access. Tour C is the only way to reach it. Instagram

The travel time to Secret Beach is part of the overall Tour C itinerary, which usually lasts a full day. The boat ride to the island group where Secret Beach is located can take around 30-60 minutes. TikTok

Yes, vans are generally available from Puerto Princesa (PPS) airport to El Nido town, even for late arrivals. However, it's advisable to confirm schedules or book in advance, especially if arriving very late. Reddit

Tours C and D are often cited as having the most stunning destinations, including Secret Beach and Hidden Beach. Many travelers consider Tour C a standout for its unique spots. InstagramReddit+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Your Tour C package typically includes environmental fees and permits for all the stops, including Secret Beach. Confirm with your tour operator what is included. Instagram+1

Tours usually start in the morning, around 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM, and return in the late afternoon. The exact timing depends on the tour operator and itinerary. TikTok

Tour C prices can vary depending on the operator and inclusions, but typically range from PHP 1200 to PHP 1800 per person. This often includes lunch, snorkeling gear, and environmental fees. Reddit

There are no specific age limits, but visitors should be comfortable swimming and navigating a narrow opening. Children should be accompanied by an adult. Instagram

Yes, you can book El Nido tours, including Tour C, online through various travel agencies or directly with tour operators in El Nido. Booking in advance is recommended. TikTok

🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience

You'll need to swim through a small, sometimes submerged, opening in the limestone cliffs. Life vests are usually provided by the tour. Instagram+1

Yes, Secret Beach can get crowded as it's a popular stop on Tour C. However, the sheer beauty of the place often outweighs the crowds. Reddit

The main activity is swimming and enjoying the secluded beach. You can also explore the unique rock formations and the hidden chamber. Instagram+1

Wear swimwear and comfortable clothing that dries quickly. Bring a rash guard for sun protection and water shoes if you prefer. TikTok

Most tours provide lunch. It's best to check with your tour operator. Bringing a reusable water bottle is always a good idea. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The entrance swim-through, the white sand beach with its dramatic cliffs, and the hidden chamber are prime photo opportunities. Instagram+1

It's advisable to use a waterproof camera or a waterproof phone case, especially when swimming through the entrance. Instagram

You can capture stunning wide-angle shots of the beach and cliffs, as well as more intimate shots of the unique rock formations and the swim-through. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with your tour operator and local authorities before flying a drone in protected areas like this. Instagram

Mid-morning to early afternoon often provides good lighting, but the dramatic scenery is impressive throughout the day. Early morning can help avoid peak crowds for photos. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Secret Beach can be an exciting adventure for families, but it requires careful consideration. The swim-through entrance might be challenging for very young children or non-swimmers. Ensure your tour operator provides adequate safety measures like life vests and supervision. Instagram

Once inside, the beach itself is beautiful and relatively calm. However, the focus is on the unique access and the natural beauty, rather than dedicated kid-friendly amenities. Consider if your children are comfortable with swimming and enclosed spaces before booking Tour C. TikTok

🎒 Solo Travelers & Backpackers

Solo travelers often find Secret Beach to be a highlight of their El Nido trip. The adventure of reaching it and the stunning scenery make for memorable experiences. It's a great place to meet fellow travelers on Tour C. TikTok

As Secret Beach is part of Tour C, it's an easy and cost-effective way for solo travelers to explore multiple key attractions in one day. The communal aspect of island hopping tours can also be a plus for those traveling alone. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Secret Beach offers a wealth of unique shots. The dramatic limestone cliffs, the turquoise waters, and the intriguing swim-through entrance provide endless creative opportunities. Instagram

Be prepared for dynamic lighting conditions, especially within the cave-like entrance and the hidden chamber. Waterproof camera gear or protective cases are highly recommended to capture the essence of this magical location without worry. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Access: A Swim-Through Adventure

The most defining feature of Secret Beach is its elusive entrance. Visitors must swim through a narrow crevice in the towering limestone cliffs. This requires a bit of courage and comfort in the water, but it's an exhilarating experience that truly lives up to the 'secret' moniker. Tour guides often provide assistance and ensure safety, but being a confident swimmer is a definite plus. Instagram+1

This natural gateway is not just a means of access; it's an integral part of the magic. The feeling of emerging from the dark opening into the sun-drenched, secluded cove is unforgettable. It’s a moment that many travelers describe as a core memory. TikTok

Exploring the Hidden Chamber

Beyond the main beach, Secret Beach holds another surprise: a small, almost hidden chamber. To reach it, you might need to swim under some rocks. Inside, it's a dome-like structure where sunlight filters in from the top, creating a serene and almost mystical atmosphere. Reddit

This intimate space is not large, and only a few people can fit at a time. Spending a quiet moment here, away from the main beach, is a highly recommended experience for those who can access it. It adds another layer of wonder to an already spectacular location. Reddit

El Nido Tour C: The Gateway to Secret Beach

Secret Beach is a highlight of El Nido's famous Tour C, which typically includes other stunning locations like Hidden Beach, Helicopter Island, and Matinloc Shrine. This tour is designed to showcase the dramatic karst landscapes and pristine waters of the Bacuit Bay. Instagram+3

Booking Tour C is essential for visiting Secret Beach. It's advisable to book your tour in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability. Many tour operators offer similar itineraries, so compare options and choose one that fits your budget and preferences. TikTokReddit