El Nido Day Tour Review: Island Hopping Paradise

Dreaming of those turquoise waters and dramatic limestone cliffs everyone posts online? So, you’re likely looking at El Nido, Palawan, and guess what? The hype’s pretty real! That area’s quickly become one of the Philippines’ must-see destinations, and honestly, a big reason is those incredible day tours. I want to tell you all about them, like your own friendly guide, and hopefully, give you some solid advice to pick the best one for *your* dream vacation.

The Core Four: Decoding El Nido’s Island Tour Options

Okay, so El Nido day tours, there tends to be four main options that get thrown around: Tour A, Tour B, Tour C, and Tour D. Each has a different focus, with some better for swimming, others better for beaches, and still others for exploring lagoons. In short, it might sound like a bit much at first, but don’t you worry, we’ll break it all down.

Tour A: Lagoon Lover’s Delight

Arguably, Tour A is, in a way, the most talked-about, and often considered *the* classic El Nido experience. It stars the Small Lagoon, the Big Lagoon, and Secret Lagoon. Can you get much more idyllic? Also thrown into the mix is Shimizu Island, famed for snorkeling, and finally 7 Commando Beach. It’s almost picture-postcard material.

Now, you might find that the lagoons get fairly busy, especially during peak season, and yes, in fact you probably will. Is that really a problem, though? Probably not. Even with the crowds, swimming in those lagoons, surrounded by the sheer cliffs, is an experience. Plus, 7 Commando Beach has, actually, plenty of space to spread out and soak up the sun. You know?

Tour B: Beach Bliss and Hidden Gems

Thinking something a little different, still? Maybe not the lagoons? So, Tour B concentrates more on beaches and snorkeling spots. Is that like your thing? This tour tends to hit Snake Island (yep, a sandbar shaped like a snake!), Pinagbuyutan Island, Entalula Beach, and the Cudugnon Cave. Each one has its particular draw. The beaches are rather less crowded, giving it that bit more of an exclusive feel.

Cudugnon Cave is kind of cool; it has that bit of history tied to it, used that one time by locals for shelter. The waters are *perfect* for snorkeling, particularly around Pinagbuyutan Island, that is, if you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of some sea turtles! Just saying, it might be up your alley.

Tour C: For the Serious Beach Buffs

Tour C focuses *specifically* on beaches, particularly if that’s your big draw to El Nido. First on the list is Hidden Beach (spot the trend here?), that’s basically paradise. There’s also Helicopter Island (named for its, in some respects, interesting shape!), Matinloc Shrine (creepy history!), Secret Beach, and Star Beach. Is it, like, *all* beaches?

Matinloc Shrine, alright, adds that somewhat interesting cultural element. Once you get past its history (I’m saying no more), you find fantastic views. The snorkeling’s better at Star Beach, too. It’s generally pretty chilled and calm, in fact.

Tour D: The Alternative Escapade

Looking to escape the crowds somewhat more, in a way? Want a more off-the-beaten-path vibe? If so, consider Tour D. This generally includes stops at Cadlao Lagoon, Pasandingan Beach, Paradise Beach, and Natnat Beach. These places often are a bit less visited by tourists.

Cadlao Lagoon can be more relaxing than the Big or Small Lagoons, yet it’s equally spectacular, you know. You know what I mean? Plus, the beaches along this route have more opportunities for you, such as just chilling out, strolling, and feeling that pristine sand between your toes. That said, is it really *that* much better? Some will definitely say so, too!

Making the Most of Your El Nido Day Tour: Some, Like, Tips

Now, getting the basics of each tour out of the way, there are things to consider. Here’s a quick run through to help you plan an experience you’ll, like, never forget.

First, is booking. Try to book in advance. The tours, clearly, do sell out (particularly during peak season). And *second*, check the weather. The tours go on regardless, yet your enjoyment somewhat depends on nice weather, after all.

So what about bringing your own stuff, then? What, arguably, is best practice? Well, things like sunscreen, a towel, swimwear, sunglasses, and a dry bag are generally seen as vital. Also, most tours provide lunch, anyway, yet you’ll probably want to bring some snacks to keep your energy up.

And finally: Be a responsible tourist! This means, basically, respecting the environment, not leaving trash, and being mindful of the local marine life. Cool? Great.

How to Decide: Finding the Perfect Tour For *You*

So, that information that I gave you about those tours are only the facts, or like a loose guidance, so, which one really will work best for *you*? What is best?

For lagoon lovers, again, that is the A tour that stands out the most, honestly. With the Secret Lagoon, Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon, what more is there?

Are you more interested in chilled beach vibes and places to snorkel, rather, instead? So Tour B could suit that brief more, to be honest.

Then the C Tour that is more concentrated on some stunning shorelines, meaning C is, again, a solid choice if you only care for those beautiful beaches.

Do you feel more outdoorsy? What about a less crowded and peaceful type of place, basically? The D tour might fit, seemingly providing a sense of serenity away from other popular ones.

I want to emphasise, I did like, try and pick tours that you might like, I guess I didn’t do a very good job but I tried. Anyway, each has so much appeal, meaning it’s more up to yourself which one, or ones, you choose!