Ultimate El Nido Travel Guide: Palawan's Stunning Beaches, Island Hopping & Insider Tips
Nestled amid the lush mountains of Palawan's main island, El Nido is widely regarded as one of the Philippines' most breathtaking destinations. Skip the crowded resorts of tourist hubs and discover the serene, awe-inspiring paradise of El Nido.
How to Get to El Nido
Most travelers fly into Manila, the Philippines' capital, before heading to Palawan's main island. If coming from outside Asia, plan an overnight near Manila's airport prior to your connecting flight to Palawan.
Manila's airport is one of the world's busiest. Experts recommend allowing at least three hours for terminal changes or nearby hotel transfers. In my experience, reaching the nearby Salem Airport Guesthouse took just 30 minutes after a one-hour shuttle wait.
The fastest route is a direct AirSwift flight from Manila to El Nido ($200–$300 USD). Budget travelers can fly Cebu Pacific to Puerto Princesa and take a 6-hour van ($20–$30 USD).
At Manila's domestic terminal, have your boarding pass printed or email confirmation ready—security is strict.
Departing El Nido, AirSwift offers transfers from Terminal 4 to Terminal 3, bypassing traffic. Allow 3+ hours between domestic and international flights.
Top Things to Do in El Nido
Island hopping is essential. Skipper Charters provides private or small-group tours (max 6 people) to Bacuit Archipelago highlights like Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Snake Island, and Pinagbuyatan Island. Open tours cost ~$70 USD per person, including lunch and snorkeling gear. Private charters suit custom itineraries and offer Coron day trips by speedboat (weather permitting).
Nacpan Beach, on El Nido's mainland, ranks among the world's best. En route, hike to Nagkalit-Kalit Falls for a refreshing swim and photos.
Fill days with sea cave explorations, kayaking, snorkeling, or rent bikes/motorbikes. For flexibility, hire a car and driver.
Where to Stay in El Nido
In Manila, Salem Airport Guesthouse offers budget stays with transfers for 200 PHP (~$4 USD) per person. Upgrade to the nearby Marriott for comfort.
In El Nido town, Spin Designer Hostel is ideal for solo travelers or groups—secure, clean, central, with friendly staff.
For luxury, El Nido Resorts Miniloc Island features overwater bungalows and all-inclusive perks: meals, airport transfers, snorkel/kayak gear, and daily tours. Add a spa treatment for indulgence.
NoaNoa Island, near TayTay, is perfect for couples or groups (rent the whole island). Secluded amid coral reefs, it's ideal for honeymoons.
Packing Essentials for El Nido
Swimsuit Cover-Up: Essential for beach days and island hopping.
Silica Packs: Combat October humidity to protect electronics—pair with ziplock bags.
Swimwear: Pack 2–3 sets and a rash guard for snorkeling sun protection.
Water Shoes & Flip-Flops: Vital for rocky shores; sizes may be limited locally.
Dry Bag (5–55L): Keeps gear safe during water activities.
Underwater Camera: GoPro for underwater shots (with selfie stick); DSLR for land. (See our complete travel camera buying guide.)
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