Home - Travel Destinations - El Nido Palawan – One of the World’s Most Beautiful Travel Destinations
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Home - Travel Destinations - El Nido Palawan – One of the World’s Most Beautiful Travel Destinations
If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
We link to affiliated partners at no extra cost to you.
Picture this: you step off the boat and the world opens up in every direction — towering limestone cliffs rise like ancient sentinels from clear turquoise waters, gilded by afternoon sun and mirrored in the gentle waves at your feet.
El Nido, tucked on the northern edge of Palawan in the Philippines, is a place you’ll still smile about years later. It’s where over 40 emerald islands and secret lagoons invite you to paddle, snorkel and chase hidden beaches that feel almost private.
Sunsets here turn the sky into a warm wash of colour, and each day ends with the possibility of a new adventure — from coral-rich reefs to soft, sandy stretches that seem made for packing a picnic and letting time slow down.
If that doesn’t have you itching to lace up your sandals and book a flight, I don’t know what will.
El Nido is famous for its breathtaking beaches and idyllic islands. With more than 40 white-sand beaches, each surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters, it’s a paradise for beach lovers. The Bacuit Archipelago, consisting of dramatic limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons, is a must-visit.
Each boat ride feels like a small adventure, gliding past towering limestone walls before stopping at beaches so clear and quiet that you’ll want to linger, swim a little longer, and take it all in before moving on.
El Nido is a dream destination for any traveler seeking natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this tropical paradise!
The area is known for its natural beauty and coral reefs, as well as the Dilumacad Island’s tunnel leading to an underwater cavern (a popular diving spot).
Going on a few small group or private tours is a fabulous idea. Island hopping and exploring places like the many caves and beautiful beaches are just so much easier when you’re part of a small group or have a good tour guide. You’ll explore places you never knew existed while feeling safe in the hands of trusted guides and tour operators:
We would recommend anything between 3 to 4 days. This is considering the long commute to get to El Nido, and the fact that you might want to enjoy some hotel or resort- time as well. There are lots of sightseeing opportunities and you just have to do some island hopping. However, you can combine fabulous tours and book multi-day, ready-made holiday packages to explore and experience Manila, Puerto Princesa, Port Barton, and El Nido, Palawan.
Island-hopping puts you right into the heart of El Nido’s scenery. You swim in clear lagoons, walk across quiet beaches, and sit under limestone cliffs that feel almost unreal. These moments come without rushing. Shoes stay in the boat, phones come out only now and then, and the day unfolds naturally.
Late afternoon brings the best part. Boats head back slowly, the light softens, and the islands turn golden.
Back in town, you end the day with a simple dinner near the water, feet in the sand, salt still on your skin.
That combination stays with you.
One day, one boat, a handful of beautiful places, and a sunset that feels earned. It turns into the kind of story you tell without exaggeration, because it was already perfect just as it was.
Yes most definitely – it’s beautiful: Actually it is one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Adventure awaits: You can go island-hopping to explore secluded beaches, kayak through hidden lagoons, hike to scenic viewpoints, or simply relax on the pristine shores. Don’t miss the Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon, renowned for their picturesque beauty.
El Nido offers some of the most stunning sunsets you’ll ever see. Head to Nacpan Beach or Corong-Corong Beach to watch the sky turn into a canvas of vibrant colors as the sun dips below the horizon.
The closest international airport when flying to El Nido, that would be Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in Manila. It’s the main international gateway into the Philippines with flights from most major cities worldwide, and from there you catch a domestic flight down to El Nido’s small Lio Airport or Puerto Princesa.
From MNL you connect to a domestic flight to El Nido (ENI) or you can fly into Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) and then take a long land transfer north.
El Nido town is compact. Most hotels, guesthouses, cafés, tour offices, and the main beach sit within walking distance. A short stroll gets you to dinner spots, sunset viewpoints, and boat tour departures.
Tricycles handle short distances.
Motorized tricycles act as local taxis and are everywhere. They’re inexpensive, easy to flag down, and ideal for reaching nearby beaches like Corong Corong or Las Cabanas.
Scooters are optional, not essential.
Some travelers rent scooters to explore farther beaches, but it’s a choice, not a requirement. Roads can be rough, and many of El Nido’s highlights don’t sit along the highway anyway.
Bottom line: El Nido works beautifully on foot, by boat, and with short tricycle rides. Travel stays simple, relaxed, and focused on the scenery instead of logistics.
(All of which can be included in the above day trips and tours.)
El Nido has a tropical savanna climate. Thus you can expect warm weather the whole year. The best time to visit El Nido in the Philippines, would be from January to April. These are traditionally the months with the lowest rainfall. Temperatures normally vary between 28°C in January and 31°C in May. Water conditions are fantastic for swimming, with temperatures between 27°C and 30°C.
Plan one slow day, and enjoy your hotel, or the place where you stay.
Island tours are wonderful, but the best memories often come from doing less. Leave one day open to walk through town in the morning, sit with a coffee near the water, swim close to shore, and watch the light change in the afternoon. No schedule, no rush.
That unplanned day gives El Nido space to breathe. It’s usually the day people remember most, because it feels personal and unforced — the kind of travel moment that quietly stays with you.
El Nido has many beautiful places where you can book your overnight accommodation. From budget-friendly hostels to luxurious beachfront resorts, El Nido has accommodations to suit every traveler. Here are our favorites in the greater El Nido region:
Why we recommend: Situated in an incredible location, this is a fabulous option if you want to stay in a Hostel. The rooftop bar is a great place to visit…
Why we recommend: Spectacular location, beautiful and luxurious accommodation, excellent service, delicious food, and simply picture-perfect.
Why we recommend: The perfect island escape to relax away from the crowds. Delicious food, peace, and tranquility. The perfect hide away beach holiday.
There are many more beautiful options, but we suggest getting a place with a view. Make the most of your visit by staying in a beautiful place and spending a bit of time there as well just to relax and take in the natural beauty around you. For more options on beautiful places to book…
In conclusion – Remember to look for small moments:
A quiet beach early in the morning, a sunset reflected on calm water, or a conversation with a boat crew — these little details are the ones that turn into stories you’ll carry home.
