Small Lagoon Miniloc Island
A hidden emerald lagoon on Miniloc Island, El Nido, accessible by kayak through a narrow cliff opening, surrounded by dramatic limestone formations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful, fewer crowds
Small Lagoon Miniloc Island
Best Time
Peaceful, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden emerald lagoon on Miniloc Island, El Nido, accessible by kayak through a narrow cliff opening, surrounded by dramatic limestone formations.
"It's truly magical, but try to go early to avoid the crowds and enjoy the serenity!"
🎯 Kayak Rental Essential
Kayaking is the best way to explore. Rent a 2-seater (400 pesos/person) or 4-seater (300 pesos/person) kayak.
⏰ Beat the Rush
Arrive before 8 AM or book a private tour to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.7 · 67 reviews
Type
Natural Feature
Address
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kayaking Through the Entrance
Entrance to Small Lagoon
Navigate a narrow crack in limestone cliffs by kayak to enter this hidden emerald paradise.
Emerald Waters & Towering Cliffs
Inside Small Lagoon
Paddle through serene, deep emerald waters surrounded by majestic, ancient limestone formations.
Hidden Caves for Photos
Within Small Lagoon
Discover small caves perfect for unique photos, but note they fit only 1-2 kayaks at a time.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serenity
Tour A is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Kayak Rental Essential
Kayaking is the best way to explore. Rent a 2-seater (400 pesos/person) or 4-seater (300 pesos/person) kayak.
⏰ Beat the Rush
Arrive before 8 AM or book a private tour to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility.
💧 High Tide Access
The lagoon entrance is only accessible by kayak during high tide.
📸 Cave Photo Ops
Explore small caves for unique photos, but be mindful of space for other kayakers.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Kayak Rental Essential
Kayaking is the best way to explore. Rent a 2-seater (400 pesos/person) or 4-seater (300 pesos/person) kayak.
⏰ Beat the Rush
Arrive before 8 AM or book a private tour to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility.
💧 High Tide Access
The lagoon entrance is only accessible by kayak during high tide.
📸 Cave Photo Ops
Explore small caves for unique photos, but be mindful of space for other kayakers.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The sun is intense. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for your island hopping adventure.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of Small Lagoon, particularly the unique experience of kayaking through a narrow crevice into an emerald paradise surrounded by towering cliffs. While the beauty is undeniable, many note that it can get extremely crowded, impacting the peaceful atmosphere. Booking a private tour or visiting very early is highly recommended to fully enjoy its magic.
"Too crowdy in April.. we took 2 seater kayak in 400 pesos per person and 4 seater kayak in 300 pesos per person. But it was too crowdy that it was like we were playing bumper kayaking !😊 Otherwise it has good view .. you can enjoy more if people are less at your time.. 👍"
Dwij Kothari
"Find a private tour and come here before the crowds. It is so peaceful and beautiful without anyone else here. My wife and I came at 7:30am and left around 8:15, right when the first boat was pulling up for the day. You won't regret it."
Andrew Bradley
"One of the best island in el nido
Kayak mode here
Water is really really deep inside the lagoon
You can go inside some of caves to have pictures (note 1-2 kayaks inside.Just for pics)
Nice scenery and view inside"
Ricerde Rieh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Small Lagoon is located on Miniloc Island and is typically accessed via Island Hopping Tour A from El Nido town. The journey takes about 45 minutes by boat.
Yes, Small Lagoon is a primary stop on the popular El Nido Island Hopping Tour A, often combined with Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Secret Lagoon.
While you can arrange private boat tours, most visitors experience Small Lagoon as part of an organized island hopping tour due to its location and accessibility.
Kayaking is the most recommended way to explore Small Lagoon, allowing you to navigate its serene waters and discover hidden spots. Kayak rentals are available on-site.
Boat rides from El Nido town to Miniloc Island, where Small Lagoon is located, typically take around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on sea conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees for Small Lagoon are usually included in your island hopping tour package. If visiting independently, inquire about separate environmental fees.
Small Lagoon is generally accessible during daylight hours as part of island hopping tours. It's best to check with your tour operator for specific timings.
Kayak rental prices can vary, but expect to pay around 300-400 pesos per person for a 2-4 seater kayak.
Yes, an environmental fee is typically required for visiting protected areas like Small Lagoon. This fee is usually covered by your tour package.
While swimming is possible, the primary way to experience Small Lagoon is by kayaking. The water is deep inside the lagoon.
📸 📸 Photography
The narrow kayak entrance, the emerald waters surrounded by cliffs, and the small caves offer unique photographic opportunities.
Visiting very early in the morning (around 7:30 AM) or opting for a private tour significantly increases your chances of capturing crowd-free, serene photos.
A waterproof camera or phone case is highly recommended due to kayaking. Wide-angle lenses can capture the grandeur of the cliffs.
Drone usage is generally restricted in protected natural areas to preserve the environment and avoid disturbing wildlife. Always check local regulations.
Yes, the small caves offer unique photo opportunities, but space is limited to 1-2 kayaks at a time.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit