El Nido sits on Palawan's Bacuit Bay — a maze of limestone islands, hidden lagoons and white-sand beaches. "Island hopping" is how you see it, and almost everyone does one or more set routes by boat. This guide covers the choices that actually shape your day.
The four tour routes
Tour A — the iconic lagoons
Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island and 7 Commandos Beach. The classic and most popular — best for first-timers. See the Big Lagoon guide.
Tour C — the hidden beaches
Hidden Beach, Secret Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Helicopter Island and Star Beach. More dramatic and the best snorkeling — great for repeat visitors. Compare them in Tour A vs Tour C.
Tours B and D
Tour B is quieter (caves, Snake Island sandbar) and often added on; Tour D covers Cadlao Island lagoons and beaches. Both are good ways to escape the busiest routes.
Choose your boat
This decision matters more than which route you pick:
- Speedboat vs traditional bangka. A speedboat cuts transfer time by ~70%, so you reach the lagoons first. Full breakdown: speedboat vs bangka.
- Shared vs private. A shared speedboat keeps the group at two couples max from ₱19,000pp; a private charter gives you your own boat and route (₱38,000 for 1–8).
Best time to go
The dry season (roughly November–May) has the calmest, clearest water and the smoothest crossings. The green season (June–October) is quieter and lush, but weather can reshape a route. In every season, the single best move is to start early — the lagoons are empty at first light.
Fees and what to bring
- Environmental fee (ETDF): paid once, covers the lagoons.
- Kayak / local fees: small, at certain stops.
- Bring: reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, a dry bag, and a waterproof phone case.
Beyond the day tours
If you have more time, the 3D2N El Nido to Coron expedition crosses the Linapacan chain to Coron — empty reefs and beach camps most travelers never see.
How to book well
Decide your route, then your boat. If you value time, quiet and photos, book a speedboat and go early. Couples and families usually find a private charter is worth it for the freedom to set the pace. Message us with your dates and group size and we'll build the day around Bacuit Bay.
