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Planning a trip to El Nido? Well, you’ve come to the right place!
This slice of paradise on Palawan is famous for its jaw-dropping lagoons, white-sand beaches, and island-hopping adventures. But choosing where to stay can make all the difference. Each area has its own vibe, whether you want to be right in the middle of the action, chill out somewhere quieter with epic sunsets, or escape to a more secluded beach hideaway.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best areas to stay in El Nido and share hotel recommendations for every budget, so you can find the perfect base for your trip. Let’s dive in!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
This is the hotel and area we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!
Our personal FAVORITE area to stay in El Nido is El Nido Town! It’s central, lively, and steps from the beach.
S Resort El Nido is our top pick thanks to its clean, modern rooms, cozy beds, and a rooftop bar with mountain and ocean views—plus easy access to tours, dining, and nightlife.
Where to Stay in El Nido Map
Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in El Nido, Philippines
Okay, the first thing that you should probably know about El Nido is that the entire northern part of Palawan Island is called El Nido, but people are typically referring to the town itself when they are talking about the area. The town is a gateway to the Bacuit archipelago, so it’s a popular base for island-hopping adventures.
Since El Nido is a popular tourist hub, there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and tour operators here. It’s easy to get around town on foot, and then you can hop in a tricycle for a ride to the nearby beaches! These tricycle taxis will zip you around quickly and cheaply, but if you want more flexibility and feel confident on two wheels, then you can always rent your own scooter.
One important thing to know is that accommodation in El Nido fills up very fast, especially in peak season! We strongly suggest booking early so that you get the best prices and don’t miss out on the area’s top stays.
- El Nido Town – This is the most central place to stay, and most island-hopping tours kick off from here! S Resort El Nido is a smart, modern hotel close to the best bars and restaurants.
- Corong-corong – This is a quieter stretch just a few minutes south of El Nido Town, offering beautiful views and a laid-back atmosphere. Frangipani El Nido offers a gorgeous boutique stay right on the beach.
- Lio Beach – A polished, resort-style area that’s only about 10 minutes from El Nido Town by tricycle. Huni Lio is a spacious, family-friendly resort with great facilities.
- Nacpan Beach – This is a secluded area about 40 minutes north of El Nido Town, so it’s not as convenient for tours, but if you want peace and quiet, you couldn’t ask for a better spot. Nacpan Beach Resort offers a lovely four-star stay just steps from the breathtaking beach.
Important Tip
Multiple El Nido trips have taught us that this city doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.
The sweet spot for booking El Nido accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.
Where to Stay in El Nido
El Nido Town
El Nido Town is the heart of the action and the most popular place to stay, especially if it’s your first time visiting! This is where most of the island-hopping tours begin, so it’s by far the most convenient place to base yourself if you’re looking to explore the famous lagoons, beaches, and hidden coves nearby.
However, that’s not the only draw. The town itself is lively, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops packed into its walkable streets. If you want to island hop by day and party by night, then you should definitely stay in El Nido Town!
Now, El Nido Town doesn’t have the widest or most photogenic beach. However, you can just hop on a tricycle to go and explore some of the prettier beaches nearby, like Vanilla Beach. Plus, you’ll visit beaches and beautiful natural spots while island hopping! And if you don’t mind a little hike, Taraw Cliff offers some stunning views of the island.
Just keep in mind that El Nido Town gets busy, especially in peak season, so it’s best suited to travelers who want to be in the center of the action rather than those looking for peace and quiet. We also highly recommend booking your accommodation well in advance, as the best spots book up very quickly.
Pros
- Central location close to lots of shops and restaurants around
- Convenient hub for island tours
Cons
- Can feel crowded and touristy
- Town Beach isn’t as beautiful as others nearby
H Hotel El Nido – $$$
H Hotel El Nido is one of the most stylish luxury stays in town, with sleek modern interiors and a calming, minimalist design. The rooms are bright and spacious, with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame views of the bay or surrounding cliffs.
And don’t get me started on the rooftop infinity pool and lounge area, which are absolutely perfect for lounging in between island-hopping adventures. The hotel also has a restaurant and bar on-site, so you don’t need to wander far for dinner or drinks.
Its location in the center of town makes it a convenient choice for travelers who want luxury without giving up easy access to tours and restaurants. Prices typically range between $150 and $950 USD per night, depending on season and room type.
Read the great reviews and book your stay here!
S Resort El Nido – $$
S Resort El Nido offers a comfortable and convenient stay right in the heart of town. The rooms are clean and contemporary, with cozy beds and modern amenities. Best of all, there’s a rooftop bar and restaurant which offers stunning views of the water and the lush green mountains.
The hotel is just steps from the beachfront, tour agencies, and plenty of dining options, so you’ll never be far from the action. The staff are also super friendly and welcoming, so they’re always happy to help with bookings and local tips. Prices here usually fall between $100 and $200 USD per night.
Check availability and book your stay here!
J Boutique Hotel El Nido – $
J Boutique Hotel El Nido is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on comfort—that’s how we like it! The rooms are compact but well-designed, with modern décor, comfortable beds, and air-conditioning. While facilities are simple, the hotel’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the town and joining island-hopping tours.
For budget-conscious travelers who want a no-fuss stay in the middle of El Nido Town, we think that J Boutique delivers great value for money. It’s a fantastic pick for groups and families, as there are family rooms available that can accommodate up to six guests. Prices generally range between $35 and $330 USD per night, depending on the season.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Related Read: If you need ideas on how to plan the perfect getaway, our 3-day El Nido itinerary is a great place to start!
Corong-corong
Just a few minutes south of El Nido Town, Corong-corong is a quieter and more laid-back area that’s perfect for travelers who want to be close to the action but not in the middle of it. The area stretches along Corong-corong Beach, a long sandy shoreline framed by palm trees and limestone cliffs. It’s especially famous for its stunning sunsets, which are some of the best in El Nido!
Corong-corong has a relaxed vibe with plenty of beachside restaurants and bars where you can enjoy fresh seafood or cocktails with ocean views. It’s also a great jumping-off point for exploring nearby beaches like Marimegmeg and Las Cabañas. The atmosphere here is less hectic than El Nido Town, so we think it’s a great choice for couples and families, or anyone looking for a slower pace.
You can still reach El Nido Town in just 5-10 minutes by tricycle, so you’re not really sacrificing convenience to stay here, either. It’s easy to zip into town for nightlife or island hopping tours when you need to. Overall, Corong-corong offers the perfect mix of relaxation and accessibility, with some excellent boutique and resort-style stays.
Pros
- Quieter and more relaxed than El Nido Town
- Pretty beaches
- Incredible sunsets and lots of beachside dining
Cons
- Nightlife is more low-key
- Slightly less convenient for tours (though still nearby)
El Nido Coco Resort – $$$
El Nido Coco Resort is a tropical retreat that combines rustic charm with modern comfort. Its villas and bungalows are set among lush gardens and feature bamboo accents, airy interiors, and spacious verandas where you can relax in privacy.
There’s an outdoor pool that’s surrounded by palm trees, while the beach is just steps away—what more could you ask for? The setting is super peaceful, but you also get easy access to the laid-back beach bars and restaurants nearby.
This is a great choice if you want scenic resort-style relaxation without straying too far from El Nido Town. Prices typically range between $80 and $450 USD per night, depending on the season and villa type.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Frangipani El Nido – $$
Frangipani El Nido is a boutique beachfront hotel that blends stylish design with a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. The rooms are spacious and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows that open onto balconies overlooking the sea. The on-site restaurant serves excellent Filipino and international dishes, and there’s also a small pool right by the beach.
The sunset views here are absolutely spectacular! Stays include a free airport shuttle, which is super handy, and breakfast each morning. We think this is a great beachfront stay! Prices usually fall between $150 and $380 USD per night.
See all the options and reserve your stay here!
Bayview Country Inn El Nido – $
Bayview Country Inn El Nido is a simple yet comfortable option that’s perfect for budget travelers who want to stay near the beach without overspending. The rooms are basic but clean and equipped with the essentials, while the property offers a welcoming, homey atmosphere.
The inn is set slightly uphill, which means you get nice views over the surrounding landscape and water. It’s just a short walk or tricycle ride to Corong-corong Beach and nearby restaurants.
There are double, triple, and quadruple rooms available as well as family suites, so it’s a great value stay for groups and families. Prices typically range from $60 to $110 USD per night.
Secure the best prices by booking in advance!
Lio Beach
Lio Beach is one of the most developed and polished areas around El Nido. It’s a resort area that’s just 15-20 minutes north of the main town, but trust me, it feels a whole world away! This area boasts a well-planned layout and a peaceful atmosphere, and the beach itself is absolutely incredible.
Unlike other beaches in the area, Lio has been designed as a sustainable tourism estate, with a carefully curated mix of boutique hotels, restaurants, cafés, and shops. The area boasts lots of lush greenery, and you’ve got everything you need within walking distance.
The beach itself is ideal for swimming and kayaking, or simply lounging under the palm trees, and in the evenings, there are art markets and live music performances to enjoy.
Lio Beach also benefits from being close to the airport, making it very convenient for arrivals and departures. While you won’t find the same bustling nightlife as El Nido Town, Lio Beach offers a more refined, resort-style experience with modern comforts and a laid-back pace. If you’re looking for a peaceful, upscale vacation in the Philippines, Lio Beach is a top choice. I still dream about it!
Pros
- Beautiful, wide beach with calm waters
- Lots of restaurants, cafés, and shops within walking distance
Cons
- More touristy and polished than local
- Accommodation can be pricier than other areas
Piece Lio – $$$
Piece Lio is a boutique luxury resort that offers stylish villas just steps from the sand. Each villa features sleek, contemporary design with lots of natural light, comfortable furnishings, and private terraces that look out over lush gardens or the sea.
The resort emphasizes tranquility and exclusivity, so we think it’s perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway! There’s an infinity pool facing the beach, a top-rated restaurant serving international and Filipino dishes, and attentive staff who really go the extra mile to make your stay memorable.
It’s the ultimate luxe stay in El Nido’s most polished area, and it really does deliver a dreamy stay. Prices typically range between $250 and $450 USD per night, depending on the villa type and season.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Huni Lio – $$
Huni Lio is a beachfront boutique hotel that combines comfort, convenience, and value. Its modern rooms are bright and airy, and the whole place has a clean, modern feel. There’s a nice pool right in the middle of the courtyard, and a great location that makes it easy to stroll along the beach and explore Lio.
We think that Huni Lio is a great mid-range option for anyone looking for a resort-style stay that won’t break the bank. Breakfast is included with every stay, and there are family-style rooms available for those who need extra space. Prices usually fall between $120 and $260 USD per night.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Lakwa Motel – $
Lakwa Motel is a budget-friendly option that allows travelers to enjoy the Lio Beach area without splurging on resort prices. The rooms are simple but clean and equipped with the essentials. Although it’s quite a basic stay, it’s stylish with a minimalist-chic vibe.
The property is within easy reach of Lio Beach and the surrounding restaurants and shops, so you can enjoy the area’s convenience and atmosphere without overspending. With its affordable rates and welcoming vibe, Lakwa Motel is the perfect pick for those who want to enjoy El Nido’s most beautiful beach area on a budget. Prices typically range from $55 to $160 USD per night.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Related Read: Once you’ve picked your base, check out our blog on the best things to do in El Nido here. It’s packed with tours, tips, and hidden gems to explore!
Nacpan Beach
Nacpan Beach is often described as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines, and once you see its 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) stretch of golden sand backed by coconut palms, you’ll understand why. Located about 45 minutes north of El Nido Town, this area is quieter and more remote than the others we’ve talked about so far.
It’s ideal for travelers who want to escape the crowds and spend their days swimming, sunbathing, and soaking up the natural beauty. This area is part of the famous “Twin Beaches.” This is where Nacpan meets Calitang Beach at a scenic sandbar. It doesn’t get much more beautiful than this!
Nacpan doesn’t have the same nightlife and shopping options here as in El Nido Town, or even Lio Beach, but that’s actually part of the appeal. In Nacpan, it’s all about laid-back beach bars and sundowner drinks with epic views. Nacpan offers an authentic, relaxed beach escape, so if that’s what you’re looking for in the Philippines, we highly recommend staying here.
Just be aware that the road to Nacpan can get bumpy, and accommodations tend to book out quickly, so it’s worth planning ahead. But if you want to slow down and enjoy a stunning stretch of coastline, that extra effort is totally worth it.
Pros
- One of the most beautiful beaches in Palawan
- Peaceful and laid-back with stunning sunsets
- Lots of upscale hotel options
Cons
- Further from El Nido Town (around 45 minutes)
- Limited dining and nightlife options
- Accommodation here tends to be pricier
ANGKLA Beach Club & Boutique Resort – $$$
ANGKLA Beach Club & Boutique Resort is Nacpan’s most luxurious option. It blends sleek design with a beachfront location that’s hard to beat. If you want to wake up with pristine white sand and bright blue waters on your doorstep, this place is a dream come true.
The resort offers stylish villas and suites, each with contemporary interiors, plush bedding, and private balconies or terraces where you can enjoy the sea breeze.
And of course, the highlight here is the beach club, which features a pool overlooking the sand, a chic bar serving drinks, and a restaurant with gourmet takes on Filipino and international dishes. Prices typically range between $500 and $770 USD per night.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Nacpan Beach Resort – $$
Nacpan Beach Resort offers a dreamy stay with a more reasonable price tag. The resort sits right on the beachfront, and the sumptuous rooms and suites are chic and comfortable, with lots of natural light and big bathtubs.
The resort boasts a prime location, just steps away from a quiet stretch of sand with comfy beach chairs and loungers. There’s also a nice restaurant with a pizza oven, which is always a win in my book! Rooms usually cost between $80 and $400 USD per night.
Check availability and book your stay here!
MG Chateau Resort – $
MG Chateau Resort is one of the most affordable options in Nacpan Beach. It offers simple, traditional rooms just a short walk from Nacpan Beach. The rooms are modest but clean, with private bathrooms and basic furnishings. It’s not a luxury stay, but the value lies in its affordability and proximity to one of Palawan’s best beaches.
The resort has a small restaurant serving Filipino dishes, and we like the property’s lush gardens. If you’re looking to enjoy Nacpan Beach on a backpacker budget, we think that MG Chateau is your best bet.
Prices typically range from $135 to $255 USD per night, with quadruple and family rooms available.
Secure the best prices by booking in advance!
Top Activities to do in El Nido
With your stay in El Nido sorted, it’s time to get out on the water and see why this corner of Palawan is so unforgettable. From crystal-clear lagoons and hidden beaches to caves, sandbars, and even luxury sailing trips, the options for exploring go far beyond the basics. To help you plan, we’ve rounded up a few standout tours that showcase the very best of El Nido.
- Snorkel and unwind at Linapacan Island – Famous for some of the clearest waters on Earth, this private full-day tour takes you snorkeling vibrant reefs, wandering quiet beaches, and enjoying a beachside buffet lunch before ending with a sunset you’ll never forget.
- Discover lagoons and reefs on Private Tour A – This iconic island-hopping tour covers El Nido’s must-see lagoons and beaches while giving you the freedom to set your own pace. With private boat access, this tour feels both personal and flexible, mixing famous stops with hidden coves.
- Uncover hidden gems on Tour C – From dramatic limestone cliffs to Secret and Hidden Beach, this full-day adventure delivers some of El Nido’s most photogenic spots. With snorkeling, beach picnics, and surreal coves, this tour balances adventure, scenery, and pure paradise moments.
- Step into caves and history on Tour B – Known as El Nido’s “mystery and history” route, this private tour blends natural wonders with cultural insights. Between Cathedral Cave, ancient Cudugnon Cave, Snake Island’s sandbar, and idyllic beaches, this tour goes beyond the usual island-hopping.
- Sail El Nido on a luxury catamaran – Cruising with the El Nido Yachting Club, this full-day tour trades banca boats for a 50-foot (15-meter) yacht. With stops at dreamy lagoons and private beaches, onboard lunch, and a relaxed pace, this tour adds a touch of luxury to island-hopping.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
After a day of island-hopping, snorkeling in turquoise lagoons, and soaking up golden sunsets, having the right place to recharge makes all the difference. Whether you’re staying in bustling El Nido Town, laid-back Corong-corong, polished Lio Beach, or the remote beauty of Nacpan, there’s truly something here for every traveler. We hope this guide helps you find the perfect base so your El Nido trip is as smooth and memorable as possible.
If you’re still planning your adventures, be sure to check out our other Asia blogs here—we’ve traveled this region widely and created detailed guides to help you make the most of your trip. Or, to keep the inspiration flowing, here are a few more blogs we think you’ll love:
6 Best Things to do in Cebu, Philippines
5 Best Things to do in Bohol, Philippines
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How to Spend FOUR DAYS in Phuket, Thailand: The Best 4-Day Itinerary