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1. Go Island Hopping
island hopping is the top must-do for anyone checking out what to do in El Nido! You have 4 main routes – A, B, C, and D.
Tour A is all about those stunning lagoons, like Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon. Perfect for lagoon lovers! Also, you can expect beach fun on 7 Commandos Beach and Payong-Payong Beach.
Tour C? That's your snorkeling paradise, hitting spots like Helicopter Island and Tapiutan Island. On Secret Beach and Hidden Beach, take your time to relax.
Tour B takes you into the caves on Cathedral Cave and Cudugnon Cave, really cool stuff. Plus, walk along Snake Island’s sandbar and chill on Entalula Beach.
And Tour D? That's for chilling on those pristine, quiet beaches, like Paradise Beach and Bukal Beach. This route takes you to explore Cadlao Lagoon, Small Lagoon and Serenity Island as well.
So, Tour A, B, C or D, how to choose? A lot of people say the best El Nido things to do involve combining Tours A and C. You get the lagoons and the snorkeling!
2. Go Snorkeling
Now, let’s talk snorkeling! It's one of the top things to do in El Nido, and super easy. Basically, you float on the surface with a mask, snorkel, and fins, checking out the underwater world.
Where to go? Tour C is famous for snorkeling, especially around Helicopter Island and Tapiutan Island. But even on Tour A, Shimizu Island has awesome spots.
And what will you see? Oh, man! Colorful coral reefs, schools of bright fish, maybe even a sea turtle if you're lucky!
3. Go Kayaking
Since we're talking about being on the water, you should also know that El Nido is awesome for kayaking!
Where to go? You can kayak in the Big Lagoon (which is usually part of Tour A), or in Cadlao and Small Lagoons (usually part of Tour D).
Imagine paddling through those calm, beautiful lagoons at your own pace, which is a great way to explore and find your own little secluded spot.
And where to rent? You can rent kayaks in El Nido town, often from tour operators or shops near the beaches. Prices usually range from ₱500 ($8) per day for a regular 2-seater kayak.
Contact Asia Odyssey Travel if you need it.
4. Explore the Lagoons
There are a lot of lagoons to explore in El Nido. This is definitely one of the top things to do in El Nido.
Why are they worth visiting? The lagoons are famous for their crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. It's like stepping into a postcard!
What can you explore? We've got a few must-sees:
- Big Lagoon: This one's huge, with stunning rock formations.
- Secret Lagoon: As the name suggests, it's a hidden gem that you enter through a small opening in the rocks.
- Cadlao Lagoon: This one is more secluded and peaceful.
- Small Lagoon: You can kayak or swim through its narrow passages.
How to explore? The best way is by joining an El Nido island hopping tour, usually Tour A for Big and Secret Lagoon, and Tour D for Small Lagoon and Cadlao Lagoon.
5. Explore the Caves
Alright, let's move on to another exciting El Nido things to do – discovering the caves! What caves to explore? We have some amazing ones:
- Cathedral Cave: This cave is named for its high, cathedral-like ceiling. You need to swim to enter and see a stunning natural skylight.
- Cudugnon Cave: This one is smaller. Be prepared to crawl through tight spaces to view stalactites, stalagmites, and learn about artifacts.
How to explore? El Nido island hopping tour B include both of these caves. Join in Asia Odyssey Travel to explore!
6. Enjoy a Buffet Lunch on the Islands
One of the top things to do in El Nido, and a real treat, is lunch... island-style!
After a morning of swimming in crystal-clear waters and exploring hidden lagoons, we'll dock at a beautiful spot.
What's on the menu? You'll be treated to a delicious array of Filipino dishes! Get ready for grilled fresh seafood, maybe some delicious fish or prawns, plus tasty chicken, local veggies, and of course, mountains of rice.
What to Do in El Nido aside from Island Hopping
7. Enjoy Family Beach Fun on El Nido's Main Island
Looking for what to do in El Nido aside from island hopping? Well, let me tell you, El Nido's main island is a playground for family beach fun!
Nacpan Beach: A wide-open, chill vibe. It's great for long walks and feeling the breeze. You can get there by tricycle (the Filipino tuk tuk), about 30-45 minutes north of town.
Las Cabanas Beach: Perfect for sunset lovers! It's located about 10-15 minutes south of town by tricycle.
Vanilla Beach: Located in Corong-Corong, near Las Cabanas, about 10-15 minutes south of town (tricycle ride). Good for a relaxed vibe with some food and drink options.
Lio Beach: If you want a more developed area with resorts and shops, this is it. It's around 10-15 minutes north of town by tricycle.
8. Try Freediving or Scuba Diving
You know El Nido is the place for island hopping, but there's a whole other world waiting for you under the waves. Try freediving or scuba diving, which is one of the unique things to do in El Nido aside from island hopping!
- Freediving: short dives on a single breath.
- Scuba diving: longer dives (30-60 minutes) with air tanks.
How do freediving and scuba diving differ from snorkeling? Compared to the surface-level experience of snorkeling, freediving and scuba diving offer an all-access pass to the underwater world.
However, the two are not on El Nido standard island hopping tours. Local dive centers can arrange experiences for all levels. Or, contact tour operators like Asia Odyssey Travel.
9. Hike to Taraw Cliff
Adventurers! For what to do in El Nido aside from island hopping, check this out: Hike Taraw Cliff!
It's right in town, so you can easily walk to the starting point.
What's the payoff? Stunning, panoramic views of Bacuit Bay! The hike takes about 30 minutes, and sunset is the perfect time to go. You'll see El Nido's beauty from way up high.
10. Ride a Tuk-Tuk to Experience El Nido Town Vibes
Want to feel the real El Nido vibe like a local? Then, ride a tuk-tuk to experience El Nido town vibes.
It's super easy! Just flag one down anywhere in town.
You'll zip through the streets, see the local life, the markets, and all the hustle and bustle. It's a fun, breezy way to get around and a must-do for your list of El Nido things to do.
For tuk-tuk etiquette, just agree on the fare before you hop in, and you're good to go. This is a fun way to see what to do in El Nido aside from the beaches!
What to Do in El Nido at Night
11. Savor Romantic Sunset Vibes
To experience El Nido's magic, especially what to do in El Nido at night, don't miss the sunsets! If you're island hopping, tours often end (16:30-17:00) before sunset, so plan accordingly.
Several mainland spots offer stunning views:
- Nacpan Beach, a 4km stretch, boasts incredible sunset colors.
- Las Cabanas provides a lively vibe with open views.
- Vanilla Beach offers a more intimate setting with beautiful hues.
- Lio Beach features resorts and restaurants for a relaxed evening.
- For a panoramic perspective, hike up Taraw Cliff.
Note! El Nido's dry season (Oct-May) typically sees sunsets around 18:00-18:30.
12. Party in Beachfront Bars
The beachfront bars are calling your name! It’s one of the things to do in El Nido at night.
El Nido's nightlife is awesome, right on the beach. Here's where to go:
El Nido Town Proper: This area is buzzing with energy. You'll find places like SAVA Beach Bar and Happiness Beach Bar here, where the drinks are strong, and the vibe is lively.
Corong-Corong Beach: For those sunset views you see in the pictures, this is the place. Check out bars like Republica Sunset Bar and Sip Sunset Lounge for a chill evening as the sun dips down.
Nacpan Beach: If you want to escape the crowds a bit, head to Nacpan. Sunmai Beach Bar and Restaurant offers a more laid-back, scenic experience.
13. See the Milky Way
El Nido's far from city lights, making it awesome for seeing the Milky Way. Here are some great spots:
- Nacpan Beach: Long, open beach with minimal light pollution.
- Las Cabanas Beach: Chill on the beach and enjoy the stars.
- Lagen Island Resort: For a luxurious experience, some villas at this resort offer amazing stargazing views.
Clear nights are best, and the dry season (November to May) gives you the best chance to see the stars.
How to Plan a El Nido Trip?
It’s time to hit up El Nido. Here's the lowdown on planning your adventure!
Aim for a sweet spot of 3-5 days to soak it all in.
island hopping is a must. Dedicate 2 days to Tours A & C for those stunning lagoons and snorkeling spots. That's where you'll find some of the top things to do in El Nido!
Save 1-2 days for El Nido town. Explore the beaches, hike Taraw Cliff, try freediving or scuba diving, and definitely experience a tuk-tuk ride! Don't forget the amazing sunsets and nightlife, which are part of what to do in El Nido at night!
Here's a sample 4-day El Nido itinerary plan:
| Day | Destinations | Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | El Nido Arrival | Free Time |
| 2 | El Nido Island Hopping Tour A | Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, 7 Commando Beach, Shimizu Island, Payong-Payong Beach |
| 3 | El Nido Island Hopping Tour C | Helicopter Island, Tapiutan Island, Hidden Beach, Secret Beach |
| 4 | El Nido Departure | Free Time |
Unlock El Nido Things to Do with Asia Odyssey Travel
Eager to unlock the secrets of El Nido? With Asia Odyssey Travel, your local Palawan and Manila experts, you're in good hands.
With over 8 years of experience, we specialize in creating personalized journeys that showcase the very best of this tropical paradise, from exhilarating El Nido things to do to moments of pure relaxation.
Begin your El Nido adventure with these El Nido, Philippines travel tips:
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Find your way around with this El Nido map
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Select your ideal island hopping excursion: which El Nido tour is the best
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Compare your options: El Nido or Coron
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Design your dream trip: El Nido Itinerary
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Extend your journey: El Nido to Bohol
If you have any questions about this article, please contact us by submitting the following form and we'll immediately get back to you.
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