Discover Why El Nido, Palawan is Your Next Dream Vacation Spot

1. Island Hopping in Bacuit Archipelago
   • Embark on your El Nido adventure with a journey through the Bacuit Archipelago. Island hopping is your gateway to discovering hidden lagoons, secluded beaches, and stunning rock formations. Each island has its charm, from the serene waters of Big Lagoon to the mysterious allure of Secret Lagoon. 
2. Snorkeling and Diving
   • Plunge into the mesmerizing underwater realm of El Nido, where snorkeling and diving spots are the stuff of legends! Imagine exploring vibrant coral reefs teeming with playful marine life, each dive an adventure waiting to unfold.  
3. Sunset at Corong-Corong Beach
   • Experiencing the sunset at Corong-Corong Beach is truly unique. The sky transforms into a breathtaking display of orange, pink, and purple, creating an ideal atmosphere for reflection and unwinding. 
4. Climbing Taraw Peak
   • For the adventurous, climbing up Taraw Peak is an absolute must. The scenery from the top is awe-inspiring. Every step and every breathtaking view are worth documenting in your personalized journal, making it a significant part of this epic activity. The thrill of the climb and the sense of accomplishment at the top will make you feel alive. 
5. Discovering Secret and Hidden Beaches
   • El Nido is brimming with surprises, like the Secret and Hidden beaches that await behind narrow cliff openings. These secluded gems are perfect for quiet reflection and journaling. 
6. Indulging in Local Cuisine
   • Food lovers rejoice! El Nido isn’t just a feast for the eyes but a paradise for your taste buds. Indulge in fresh seafood and local delicacies that will make your mouth water. Enjoy the flavors at beachside restaurants and immerse yourself in the local culture and customs deeply rooted in the island’s history and natural beauty. 

Your Guide to El Nido: Average Prices for Popular Activities

Here is a table showing the average pricing for various activities in El Nido, including island hopping, snorkeling, and diving:

1. The Funny Lion El Nido
   • The Funny Lion El Nido is a small resort in Palawan offering modern rooms, a pool, a spa, and a restaurant with local and international dishes. Visitors can enjoy beautiful views of Bacuit Bay and the surrounding limestone cliffs. The resort also offers island hopping, snorkeling, and diving to see El Nido’s marine life. Tours include Papaya Beach, Snake Island, Big Lagoon, and Small Lagoon.
   • The average daily cost ranges from $150 to $300 per night. Check the hotel’s booking page or contact them directly for accurate pricing and availability.
2. Lihim Resorts, El Nido
   • Lihim Resorts in El Nido offers luxurious private villas with personalized butler service. The resort has a top-notch spa and gourmet dining options. Guests can enjoy exciting activities like guided island tours, snorkeling, and diving.
   • Prices range from $400 to $1,000 daily based on villa type and season. For current pricing, visit their website.
3. El Nido Resorts Miniloc Island
   • Miniloc Island Resort, part of El Nido Resorts, offers a rustic and eco-friendly experience in a cove surrounded by limestone cliffs and pristine waters. Accommodations include water cottages, beachfront cottages, and garden rooms designed with native materials for a traditional Filipino feel. Guests can enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, diving, and island-hopping tours. The resort emphasizes sustainability and conservation, providing a natural and immersive getaway.
   • The average daily cost is approximately $500 to $700. For the most accurate pricing, check the website directly.
4. Cauayan Island Resort
   • Cauayan Island Resort is a luxury resort in El Nido, Palawan. It offers elegant villas with beachfront or forest views and amenities such as an infinity pool, spa, gym, and a restaurant serving international and local cuisine. Guests can enjoy snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and island hopping.
   • The average daily cost ranges from approximately $400 to $900, depending on the villa type and season. For current pricing and booking information, visit their official website or contact the resort directly.
5. El Nido Resorts Lagen Island
   • Lagen Island Resort is a luxurious, eco-conscious resort that offers 51 accommodations, including Forest Rooms, Water Cottages, and Beachfront Cottages. Guests can snorkel and scuba dive and take trips to the nearby islands. The establishment also has a swimming pool, a spa, and a dining facility serving local and international dishes.
   • The usual night stay prices range from $400 to $1,000. For further information, please check their website.
6. Matinloc Resort
   • Matinloc Resort provides upscale lodging on a private El Nido, Palawan island. It features villas with ocean views and beachfront access. Guests can enjoy fun activities such as snorkeling and island hopping and access to a restaurant, swimming pool, and spa.
   • The nightly rates typically range from $300 to $700, depending on the villa type and the season. Please refer to their website for the latest pricing and booking options.
7. Pangulasian Island Resort
   • Pangulasian Island Resort is a luxury eco-resort in Bacuit Bay known for its stunning location and pristine beach. It features 42 villas with modern amenities and offers activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and nature walks. The resort emphasizes sustainable practices and environmental conservation.
   • The average daily cost is $600 to $1,200 per night, depending on the villa type and season. Visit their website for more information.
8. Cadlao Resort
   • Cadlao Resort & Restaurant in El Nido is a peaceful beachfront retreat with private terraces, three swimming pools, a spa, and a restaurant featuring Filipino and international cuisine. It’s a short walk from El Nido town and offers island hopping, snorkeling, and diving activities.
   • Rates range from $150 to $300 per night, depending on the room type and season. Visit their website for current pricing and booking options.
9. Seda Lio
   • Seda Lio is a beachfront resort in El Nido, Palawan, offering 153 modern rooms and suites, a private beach, an infinity pool, a spa, and dining options. It’s part of the Lio Tourism Estate, focusing on sustainable tourism and easy access to activities like island hopping, snorkeling, and eco-tours. The resort also has facilities for meetings and events, suitable for leisure and business travelers.
   • Room rates range from approximately $350 to $630 per night. Visit their website for more information.
10. Karuna El Nido Villas
    • Karuna El Nido Villas offers eco-friendly accommodations with stunning views, including private pool villas, studios, and Indonesian-style Joglos. The resort is perched on a hill near Corong Corong Beach and offers infinity pools, a restaurant, and spa services. It also offers various tours, including island hopping, inland tours, and water sports activities so that visitors can experience the natural beauty of El Nido.
    • Prices range from approximately $200 to $500 per night, depending on the villa type and season. Visit their website for more details.
11. Lagùn Hotel
    • Lagùn Hotel is a boutique hotel in El Nido, Palawan. It features stylish rooms, a rooftop infinity pool, a restaurant, and a bar. Guests can enjoy island hopping, snorkeling, and exploring the local area.
    • Room rates generally range from $100 to $250 per night. For more details, check the hotel website.
12. Lime Resort El Nido
    • Lime Resort El Nido offers modern accommodations with stunning views of Bacuit Bay. It features various rooms and suites with amenities such as a Smart TV, Wi-Fi, mini-refrigerator, and balcony. Guests will enjoy the outdoor pool, a poolside bar, and spa services.
    • The average daily cost ranges from $150 to $400. For more details, visit the website.
13. Mansion Buenavista
    • Mansion Buenavista in El Nido offers spacious accommodations, private balconies, and modern amenities. It is situated above El Nido town, provides excellent views, and is just a 5-minute walk from the beach. 
    • Room rates generally range from $100 to $200 per night. Visit their website for more details and reservations.
14. El Nido Mahogany Beach
    • Mahogany Resort and Spa is a beachfront accommodation in Corong Corong, El Nido, with modern amenities, a restaurant, and spa services. Activities include snorkeling and island hopping.
    • Room rates range from $100 to $200 per night. For more information, visit the resort website.
15. Bebeladan Beach Resort
    • Bebeladan Beach Resort is located in Bacuit Bay, El Nido. It offers beachfront bungalows blending modern comforts with natural beauty. Guests can enjoy boat tours, snorkeling, and cultural experiences. The resort features a restaurant and bar.
    • A single night usually costs $50 to $150, depending on the bungalow and the season. Visit their website for the latest rates and availability.

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You can also read: Savor the Sweet Side of the Philippines: A Guide to Filipino Desserts.

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El Nido, located in the stunning Palawan region, is not only known for its breathtaking landscapes and crystal-clear waters but also for its delicious and diverse culinary offerings. When visiting El Nido, indulging in the local cuisine is a must. Here are the top ten must-try dishes and local delicacies that will enhance your tropical adventure:

1. Nido Soup
   • Nido Soup, also called Bird’s Nest Soup, is a distinctive delicacy representing El Nido’s abundant cultural heritage. It is prepared using edible bird nests gathered in the area and is renowned for its subtle flavor and esteemed health advantages. This luxurious dish is typically savored during special events.
2. Kinilaw
   • Kinilaw is a Filipino-style ceviche, perfect for those who love fresh seafood. In El Nido, kinilaw is made with the freshest catch of the day, usually fish or shrimp, marinated in vinegar, calamansi juice, onions, and spices. This refreshing dish is ideal for a light meal or appetizer.
3. Grilled Seafood
   • Being a coastal paradise, El Nido offers an abundance of fresh seafood. Grilled seafood platters featuring fish, squid, shrimp, and crabs are a staple in local restaurants. Enjoying a seafood feast overlooking the sea is a quintessential El Nido experience.
4. Tamilok
   • For the adventurous foodie, Tamilok is a must-try. Often called “woodworm,” Tamilok is a mollusk found in mangroves. It’s typically served fresh and raw, marinated in vinegar or lime juice. Its unique taste and texture accurately represent Palawan’s exotic offerings.
5. Lato Salad
   • Lato, also known as sea grapes, is a seaweed commonly used in Filipino salads. In El Nido, it’s often served as a refreshing side dish tossed with tomatoes, onions, and a splash of vinegar. It’s a perfect accompaniment to grilled seafood dishes.
6. Chao Long
   • A nod to Palawan’s Vietnamese influence, Chao Long is a Filipino-Vietnamese noodle soup dish that has become a local favorite. This savory and aromatic noodle soup, often made with pork or beef, is perfect for a comforting meal after a day of exploring.
7. Adobo
   • Adobo, a traditional Filipino meal, has a distinctive variation in El Nido. It consists of pork or chicken marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices, resulting in a delicious and flavorsome dish that perfectly complements rice.
   • Read my full blog post about the iconic dish, Adobo!
8. Sinigang na Isda
   • Sinigang na Isda is a sour fish soup made with tamarind, tomatoes, and various vegetables. This tangy and comforting dish is a staple in Filipino households and a must-try for those looking to experience authentic Filipino flavors.
9. Buko Shake
   • Buko Shake, or coconut shake, is a popular and refreshing drink from young coconut meat, coconut water, and milk. It’s perfect for cooling down in the tropical heat and is often enjoyed while lounging on the beach.
10. Coconut-Based Desserts
    • A visit to El Nido would only be complete with indulging in some coconut-based desserts. Try buko pie (young coconut pie) or buko pandan (coconut pandan dessert) for a sweet taste of the tropics. These desserts are made with fresh coconuts, making them a refreshing way to end a meal. 

These dishes offer a taste of El Nido’s culinary diversity and allow you to experience the island’s culture and hospitality through its food. Enjoy these local delicacies while enjoying the breathtaking views of El Nido’s natural wonders!

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Discover the 20 Filipino street foods you absolutely must try! Click here.

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When Is the Best Time to Go to El Nido, Palawan

The best time to visit is from November to May, when you can truly enjoy the beautiful arid climate and calm ocean for island excursions, snorkeling, and diving. If you’re looking for clear skies and calm waters, December to February is the peak season, but remember that it can get quite busy. Plan your visit between November and May to avoid the crowds and make the most of your experience. However, some quick rain showers may even be during the dry season. It’s always a good idea to be prepared for that as well. Here is a heads-up!

Always check the latest updates from these official government sources or travel advisories before your trip, as conditions can change rapidly:

elnido.gov.ph

turismo.palawan.gov.ph