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Planning a short trip to El Nido? You’re in the right place!
Tucked away on Palawan’s northern tip, El Nido is a beach paradise like no other. Dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons, and white-sand beaches make it feel straight out of a postcard. With island-hopping tours, cozy beach bars, and vibrant nightlife, there’s no shortage of ways to spend your time here.
After exploring El Nido on multiple trips, we’ve crafted an itinerary that ensures you see the very best without feeling rushed. From snorkeling in hidden lagoons to feasting on fresh seafood and catching unforgettable sunsets, this guide will help you make the most of every moment.
Ready to get started? Let’s go!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in El Nido was this private island-hopping tour! From swimming in turquoise lagoons and snorkeling vibrant reefs to relaxing on secluded coves, every stop made the day unforgettable.
Itinerary Overview
Getting around El Nido is part of the adventure itself. Out on the water, the only way to explore the lagoons, caves, and hidden beaches is by joining one of the island-hopping tours, which are well-organized and easy to book in town. On land, you’ll find it just as simple to move around, rent a scooter if you’re confident driving, hop in a colorful tricycle for short rides, or simply walk through the compact town center.
In three days, you’ll get a great mix of experiences without feeling rushed. This itinerary includes two full days of island hopping plus time to enjoy El Nido’s beaches, sunsets, and lively nightlife. You’ll see the highlights that make this corner of Palawan so famous, while also leaving space for laid-back moments that let the beauty of El Nido truly sink in.
Day 1: Kick things off with Tour A, a full-day island hopping adventure to the Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Seven Commando Beach, and more, followed by sunset at Las Cabañas Beach and dinner with a view.
Day 2: Spend the day on Tour C, exploring Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, and other stunning stops, then dive into El Nido’s lively nightlife after dinner downtown.
Day 3: Choose your own adventure, either join Tour B to discover caves and remote islands, or rent a scooter to explore El Nido’s best mainland beaches before ending with a beachside dinner and your final night in town.
Day 1
Full day – Tour A: Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Seven Commando Beach, and more
Tour A is one of El Nido’s most popular island-hopping routes, known for its stunning lagoons, snorkeling spots, and postcard-perfect beaches. Joining this private full-day version of Tour A means you’ll enjoy all the highlights without the hassle of a crowded group boat. Instead, you’ll have the freedom to set your own pace and explore with the comfort of a dedicated guide.
You can choose to start at 8:30 or 9 am, depending on how much of an early bird you are—and with hotel pickup included, getting started couldn’t be easier! By the time this tour finishes up between 3:30 pm and 5 pm, you’ll have enjoyed an unforgettable adventure seeing some of El Nido’s most famous spots.
We loved how this trip felt both iconic and personal. Our guide made sure we visited famous lagoons and beaches, but also slipped into quieter corners where we could swim and snorkel without another boat in sight.
Lunch was served right on the boat, complete with refreshing drinks and the kind of views that make you pause to appreciate where you are. Between swims, our guide shared little stories about the islands that made the day feel more immersive.
If you want to see the highlights of El Nido in comfort and style, this private version of Tour A is the way to go! But don’t just take our word for it—check out the glowing five-star reviews here to see why this tour ranks among the best in El Nido!
Check dates and reserve your spot on this private Tour A here!
Evening – See the sunset
After your island-hopping tour, head back to your hotel to freshen up and relax for a bit. Once you’re ready, hop on a tricycle and ride about 10 minutes south to Las Cabañas Beach, one of the best places in El Nido to watch the sun dip below the horizon.
The sky often lights up in shades of pink, orange, and purple, and the calm beach setting makes it extra special. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring the islands.
Dinner – Lion’s Sunset Lounge
From there, hop back on your ride for a quick five-minute ride to Lion’s Sunset Lounge. This open-air restaurant combines great food with even better views, giving you a front-row seat to the ocean while you dine.
Expect fresh seafood, Filipino classics, and a few international dishes, all served in a laid-back, tropical setting. Add a cocktail or two, and it’s a wonderful way to wrap up your first night in El Nido!
Day 2
Full Day – Tour C: Explore Hidden Beach, Secret Beach, and more
If Tour A gave you a perfect taste of El Nido’s lagoons and beaches yesterday, Tour C shows you a wilder, more dramatic side of Palawan. This full-day experience is all about soaring limestone cliffs, secluded coves, and beaches that feel like they’re hiding in plain sight. The highlights include some of the most famous stops in the region: Hidden Beach, Secret Beach, and Helicopter Island.
We couldn’t get enough of Hidden Beach, which really does live up to its name. Swimming through a rocky opening and emerging into a sheltered cove feels like stepping into another world. Secret Beach is even more breathtaking—a narrow entrance framed by limestone leads into a pocket of dazzling white sand and turquoise water. It’s no wonder this is one of El Nido’s most photographed spots!
Lunch on the beach is part of the fun. Your guide will set up a buffet of fresh seafood and tropical fruit, usually on Talisay Beach, where you can eat with your toes in the sand and views of jagged cliffs in the distance.
If you’re after a mix of adventure, jaw-dropping scenery, and those “can you believe this?” moments, Tour C delivers. Hotel pick-up is included between 8:30 and 9 am, and you’ll be back in town between 3:30 and 5 pm. Lunch is provided, but bring some extra cash if you want to join in optional activities.
It’s the kind of day that leaves you sun-soaked, salty-haired, and already planning your next island-hopping adventure!
Check availability and secure your spot on Tour C here!
Dinner – Holy Smoke Mediterranean Food House
After a full day of exploring hidden coves and dramatic cliffs on Tour C, you’ll be ready for a hearty meal back in town. Holy Smoke Mediterranean Food House is right in the center of El Nido, so it’s easy to head here as soon as you’re cleaned up and ready for dinner.
The menu offers a welcome change from the day’s beachside buffet, with comforting Mediterranean dishes like kebabs, falafel, hummus, and wood-fired pizza. The atmosphere is warm and relaxed, making it just as good for a casual bite as for lingering with friends over shared plates. With its downtown location, it’s the perfect spot to kick off your evening before diving into El Nido’s nightlife.
Evening – Enjoy the nightlife
El Nido really comes alive at night, and this is your chance to dive into the energy of the town. If you’re in the mood for music and dancing, you’ll find plenty of lively spots to choose from. We especially loved The Treehouse, a laid-back beachside bar where you can sip drinks with your toes in the sand while listening to live music.
Just wandering through this area, you’ll stumble upon all sorts of venues, some buzzing with DJs, others offering acoustic sets, so there’s always something to match your mood.
If a quieter evening sounds more appealing, you don’t have to miss out. Stroll along El Nido’s main street and soak up the atmosphere, or take a walk down the beach under the stars. Whether you’re in the mood for a lively night out or something more relaxed, El Nido’s evenings are full of charm and give you another way to connect with this vibrant little town.
Day 3
By your third day in El Nido, it really comes down to what you want most out of your trip. If your priority is to see as many of the islands as possible, then joining Tour B is the way to go. It’ll take you to a whole new set of caves, coves, and beaches.
But if you’re ready for a slower pace after two full days on the water, this is the perfect chance to stay on land, rent a scooter, and explore El Nido’s mainland beaches at your own rhythm. Either way, you’ll wrap up your time here with experiences that capture the beauty of Palawan.
Option 1: Tour B: Caves and Islands
If you decide to keep the island hopping going on your last day, Tour B is the perfect way to round out your El Nido experience—this private full-day tour showcases a different side of Palawan.
Instead of just beaches and lagoons, you’ll also discover caves, archaeological sites, and unique landscapes that make the experience stand out from the rest. The tour runs from 9 am to about 4:30 pm, with hotel pick-up and drop-off included, plus a beachside lunch to keep you fueled for the adventure.
We started with Cathedral Cave, where sunlight bounced off the water and lit up towering limestone walls. It felt almost like stepping into a natural cathedral! At Cudugnon Cave, our guide shared stories about Neolithic inhabitants who once lived there, and we could still see the textures in the rock that hinted at its past. It was a fascinating mix of culture and nature that gave the day a special depth.
Snake Island was another highlight, with its sandbar stretching gracefully through the sea. Walking across it with water on both sides was a surreal experience we’ll never forget. The day ended with time to relax on the powdery sand of Pinagbuyutan Island, where the views of surrounding cliffs and turquoise water made it hard to leave.
If you want more than just to visit pretty beaches, Tour B adds history, adventure, and variety to the mix! We loved how it combined culture, scenery, and quiet island moments, and clearly, we’re not the only ones. Just read through the five-star reviews here to see why this tour is a favorite in El Nido!
Discover caves, sandbars, and hidden secrets on Tour B—book here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Option 2: Rent a scooter and explore El Nido
Morning – Grab breakfast and a scooter
If you’d rather slow things down on your last day, exploring El Nido by scooter is a great way to see a different side of Palawan. But first, start the morning with a relaxed breakfast at Brunch El Nido, a cozy spot in town known for its hearty plates and good coffee. It’s the perfect fuel before heading out for a beach-hopping adventure.
From there, rent a scooter from one of the many shops in town. Most offer similar prices and quality, and your hotel may even be able to arrange one for you. Riding gives you the freedom to set your own pace, but do take care on the roads. Always wear a helmet and drive cautiously, as some tourists can be a little reckless behind the wheel.
Mid-day – Explore El Nido’s beaches
Now it’s time to enjoy El Nido’s mainland beaches at your own pace. Pack your swimsuit, water, and some snacks, though you’ll also find plenty of small restaurants along the way for a casual lunch. With a scooter, you’ll have the freedom to hop between beaches and take in a variety of landscapes.
- Duli Beach – About a 45-minute drive north of town, Duli is the kind of beach that feels wonderfully off-the-beaten path. There are a few small restaurants where you can grab a bite, but the real draw is the wide stretch of sand and gentle waves. It’s especially popular with surfers, though even if you don’t surf, it’s worth visiting for the quiet atmosphere.
- Nacpan Beach – Considered the most beautiful beach on the mainland, Nacpan is often the highlight for travelers exploring by scooter. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and simply soaking up the views of its long golden shoreline. You’ll also find beach chairs and umbrellas to rent, a handful of restaurants, and even massage spots for a little extra indulgence.
- Lio Beach – About 30 minutes back toward El Nido town, Lio offers a different vibe with its polished resort feel. Despite the nearby hotels and restaurants, it never feels overly crowded, and it’s easy to find a quiet patch of sand. It’s a lovely spot to grab lunch or a coffee while taking in the calm, tropical scenery.
If driving a scooter doesn’t appeal, you can still enjoy beach time by taking a tricycle to some of the popular southern spots. Marimegmeg Beach is a fun choice with kayaking, ziplining, and a lively beachfront restaurant, while Las Cabañas Beach next door is just as beautiful but often a touch more relaxed.
Since both are only about 10 minutes from El Nido by tricycle, they’re easy to visit without much effort.
Dinner – AP Kala Beach Bar
After a full day of beach hopping, now is the time to head back to your hotel to freshen up. If you’ve been eyeing souvenirs, this is also a good time to wander through the shops downtown and pick up something to remember your trip.
When you’re ready for dinner, make your way to AP Kala Beach Bar, one of the more upscale restaurants in El Nido. Set right on the sand, it’s a gorgeous place to enjoy a meal as the waves roll in just steps away. The menu combines fresh seafood with international favorites, and the stylish yet relaxed setting makes it a fitting finale to your adventures in Palawan.
Evening – Your Choice!
Since it’s your final night in El Nido, the evening is all yours to shape. If you’re in the mood for something lively, grab rooftop drinks at Piece of Sky or head to a karaoke bar for a fun, very Filipino experience. The town’s main street is always buzzing too, making it a great place for a casual stroll, people-watching, and maybe one last round of shopping.
If you’d rather end on a softer note, take a quiet walk along the beach under the stars and soak in the sounds of the waves. Or treat yourself to a sweet finale with dessert at Gusto Gelato + Bistro, a local favorite for a scoop of gelato before saying goodbye to El Nido.
Related Read: For even more tips and ideas to add to your trip, check out our full guide on the best things to do in El Nido here!
Where to Stay in El Nido, Philippines
With your three-day itinerary all sorted, all that’s left is to find the perfect base. El Nido has plenty of great places to stay—whether you’re after a luxury getaway, a stylish mid-range retreat, or a budget-friendly base close to the action. From modern hotels steps from the beach to simple yet comfortable stays, there’s something here for every travel style and budget.
To make things easy, we’ve highlighted three of the best options across different price ranges. If you spot availability for your dates, it’s smart to book quickly—these hotels tend to fill up fast, especially during peak season!
H Hotel El Nido – $$$
For a stay that blends comfort with style, H Hotel El Nido is hard to beat. The rooms are spacious and modern, complete with air-conditioning, balconies, and thoughtful touches like walk-in showers, and all the amenities you could expect from a luxury stay.
The on-site restaurant serves everything from Filipino favorites to European brunch, all in a sleek setting that works just as well for a family meal as it does for a romantic dinner! With free WiFi, airport transfers, and a prime location just steps from El Nido Beach, the hotel makes it easy to relax and explore.
Rooms usually average $300–400 USD per night, so this is definitely a splurge-worthy choice if you want luxury and convenience right in the heart of El Nido. Check availability and book H Hotel El Nido here!
S Resort El Nido – $$
S Resort El Nido offers the perfect middle ground for travelers who want comfort without the luxury price tag. Rooms come with air-conditioning, private balconies or terraces, and little extras like seating areas and work desks that make them feel spacious and inviting.
Breakfast is a treat, with à la carte and Asian options served either in the restaurant or outdoors on the terrace. We love that the hotel adds thoughtful touches like menus for special diets and plenty of cozy seating areas to unwind. At around $200 USD per night, S Resort offers great value for a stylish stay in the heart of El Nido. Check availability and book S Resort El Nido here!
J Boutique Hotel El Nido – $
If you’re traveling on a budget but still want comfort, J Boutique Hotel El Nido is a great pick. Rooms are simple yet well-equipped, with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, bidets, showers, and handy extras like TVs and kettles. Family rooms are also available, making it a solid choice if you’re visiting with friends or relatives.
Here, you’ll get all the essentials that matter most, reliable WiFi, a convenient location, and the option of a paid airport shuttle. Prices generally range between $35 and $330 USD per night, depending on the season. Check your dates and secure your stay here!
Related Read: For even more options, check out our full guide on where to stay in El Nido here—it’s packed with tips to help you find the perfect base for your trip.
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!
There’s so much to see in El Nido, but hopefully this 3-day itinerary has helped you map out the highlights. We followed this exact plan on our last visit and found it balanced adventure, relaxation, and plenty of time to soak up the beauty of Palawan. We hope your own trip leaves you with the same unforgettable memories!
If El Nido is just one stop on your travels, be sure to check out our other Asia guides here—we’ve spent time exploring destinations across the region and packed our blogs with insider tips, itineraries, and hidden gems to make planning easier. Or here are a few of our favorites to help get you started:
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