Introducing El Nido Palawan! In my opinion, one of the most beautiful and exciting destinations in the Philippines, and soon to be one of your favorite islands. This El Nido itinerary 5 days is your passport to experiencing the very best of this tropical paradise. From unforgettable island hopping tours to secret lagoons, limestone cliffs, and hidden beaches, we’ll guide you through all the highlights of your El Nido trip.
With its stunning mix of white sand beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs, and world-famous hidden lagoons like the Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon, El Nido offers so much more than just a beach day. Whether you’re exploring caves like Cathedral Cave and Cudugnon Cave, diving or snorkeling the coral reefs, or venturing out to Cadlao Island and Helicopter Island, every stop is packed with natural beauty and hidden gems.
Get ready to explore El Nido, dive into its turquoise waters, exploring it’s underwater world, and enjoy a journey filled with adventure, relaxation, and so much fun.
Table of contents
- How to get to El Nido, Palawan
- When to go to El Nido, Palawan
- Where to Stay in El Nido:
- 5 Day El Nido Itinerary
- Day 1 – ‘Tour A’ Beautiful Lagoons & Private Islands
- Day 2 – Explore El Nido’s Local Highlights
- Day 3 – ‘Tour D’ Hidden Beaches & Lagoons
- Day 4 – ‘Tour B’ Sandbanks & Caves
- Day 5 – Say goodbye to El Nido Palawan
- Explore Palawan: Continue your itinerary to Coron, Palawan
- Q: How many days should I spend in El Nido?
- Q: What are the main El Nido island tours?
- Q: Where should I stay in El Nido?
- Q: Can I combine El Nido with other parts of Palawan?
- Q: What makes El Nido unique compared to other beach destinations in the Philippines?
How to get to El Nido, Palawan
El Nido is located on the northern tip of Palawan Island, which is part of the Palawan Province in the Philippines.
El Nido is renowned for its stunning limestone cliffs, clear turquoise waters, and diverse marine life and serves as a gateway to numerous small islands and islets, each offering its own unique charm and natural wonders that attract travelers from around the globe.
Getting to El Nido From Manila or Cebu
The quickest and most convenient way to reach El Nido (from Manila or Cebu) is by taking a direct flight. Several airlines operate daily DIRECT flights to El Nido Airport. Flight duration is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the airline and route.
I use a 3rd party search site, like Trip.com, to search for ALL AIRLINES in the one search.
Getting to El Nido From Coron
Travelling from El Nido to Coron can be done by catching a Montenegro Ferry.
We suggest you book in advance or when you arrive to Coron or El Nido to avoid missing out.
Alternatively, turn it into a true adventure… Robinson Crusoe style, taking a 3 Day 2 night Tour from Coron to El Nido (or El Nido to Coron). Along the way, you’ll explore Palawan’s hidden gems far from the crowds, guided by passionate and knowledgeable locals. At night, embrace authentic island life by staying in traditional Nipa huts or camping right on the beach.
Getting to El Nido From Puerta Princessa
1. By Van: This is usually the most popular and convenient option for travelers. Vans depart regularly from Puerto Princesa and take approximately 5 to 6 hours to reach El Nido. Cost is approximately $20aud Click here
2. By Private Transfer: There is also the option to go with a private transfers. This option allows you to travel at your own pace and may include additional amenities such as snacks and stops at scenic spots along the way. Private transfers cost is approximately $200aud. Click here
When to go to El Nido, Palawan
The best time to visit El Nido, Palawan, is generally during the dry season, which spans from November to May. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions, characterized by sunny days, minimal rainfall, and calm seas, ideal for island hopping, snorkeling, and exploring the stunning beaches and lagoons. The peak tourist season in El Nido typically coincides with the months of December to February, when the weather is cooler and perfect for outdoor activities. If you prefer fewer crowds but still good weather, consider visiting during the shoulder months of November and May. However, it’s essential to note that weather patterns can vary, so checking current forecasts before planning your trip is advisable to ensure a pleasant and enjoyable stay in this tropical paradise.
| Season / Months | Weather | Travel Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Season (November – May) | Sunny days, minimal rainfall, calm seas | Best time to visit El Nido. Ideal for island hopping tours, snorkeling, and exploring beaches and lagoons. |
| Peak Season (December – February) | Cooler, comfortable temperatures | Most popular time to travel; expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations and tours. |
| Shoulder Months (November & May) | Generally good weather, start/end of dry season | Great balance between fewer crowds and favorable conditions — perfect for those who want to explore El Nido with less hustle. |
| Wet Season (June – October) | Heavy rainfall, rough seas, occasional storms | Not ideal for boat tours; some island hopping tours may be canceled. Fewer tourists, so accommodations can be cheaper. |
Where to Stay in El Nido:
Choosing the right place to stay in El Nido can completely shape your experience in this island paradise. Whether you want to be in the heart of the action in El Nido Town, wake up to the stunning sunsets of Corong-Corong, or enjoy the laid-back beachfront vibe at Las Cabanas Beach, there’s an area to suit every kind of traveler. From budget-friendly hostels and cozy nipa huts to luxury resorts with infinity pools, El Nido offers a wide range of accommodations. Each location has its own charm, advantages, and trade-offs, so finding the perfect base depends on the kind of El Nido itinerary you’re planning.
Which areas in El Nido to stay
El Nido Town (Poblacion):
- Advantages: El Nido’s trendy downtown, also known as Poblacion, is the main hub for tourists. It offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to boutique hotels and resorts. Staying here provides easy access to the many restaurants, bars, shops, tour operators, convenience stores, and the bustling waterfront.
- Cons: The beach area is not very nice, and it is a busy place.
Corong-Corong:
- Pros: Being located half way between El Nido Town and Las Cabanas beach makes this area a great central base. It is just a short tricycle ride to El Nido Town or Las Cabanas. Corong-Corong offers a more tranquil atmosphere compared to the town center but still has some beachfront bar and dining options.
- Cons: The beach area is still not as nice as Las Cabanas.
Las Cabanas Beach:
- Pros: For those seeking a more secluded and beautiful beachfront experience, Las Cabanas Beach is an excellent choice. It’s located a 10-15 drive or tricycle ride from El Nido Town and offers beautiful views of Cadlao Island. Accommodations here range from simple beachfront cottages to upscale resorts and there are ALOT of beachfront restaurants to choose from
- Cons: It’s further away from the main town, so your day tours will need to start earlier! The prices at the restaurants and bars are more expensive.
My Top 3 Suggested Hotels Recommended Hotels in Elnid
Corong-Corong
We stayed at El Nido Coco Resort, It’s location was right on the beachfront, close to a few nearby bars and restaurants. We had a bungalow with a private little plunge pool which was a nice added touch. Having loved our stay at El Nido Coco Resort, we would definitely rebook and recommend, especially for the value for money!
To check prices and book, click here El Nido Coco Resort
El Nido Town
My pick in El Nido Town would be H Hotel El Nido. I think the views speak for themselves! Then add on the central location and onsite bar and restaurant all overlooking the beach! WINNING
To book H Hotel El Nido
Las Cabanas
If you are going to stay in Las Cabanas, I think you have to choose something beachfront and something luxurious to take in the epic views. That is why I would suggest you stay at Maremegmeg Beach Club. We actually ate here a couple of times, and I eyed off the swimming pool and accommodation, and fell in love. It is located right in the heart of Las Cabanas and would be the perfect place to stay if you want to enjoy this beautiful beachfront area. This is where I plan to book on my next trip!
To book, click – Maremegmeg Beach Club
5 Day El Nido Itinerary
Day 1 – ‘Tour A’ Beautiful Lagoons & Private Islands
Start your vacation in El Nido off with one of the most popular Tours. During Tour A you will visit the following spots.
- Premium Big Lagoon
- Simizu Island
- Payong-Payong Beach
- Secret Lagoon
- Seven Commandos Beach
Day 2 – Explore El Nido’s Local Highlights
- Nacpan Beach– Hire a motorbike or a TukTuk driver and head up to Nacpan for a day at the beach, some cocktails and a delicious lunch! The drive will take you approximately 45-60minutes.
- La Cabanas Beach– this was our favorite beach, great restaurants and bars, beautiful beach & zip lining! It had something for everyone.
Day 3 – ‘Tour D’ Hidden Beaches & Lagoons
Tour D was one of my favorite day tours. However, it does not run everyday, that is why it is best to book in advance. The fact that they are not done daily by all of the tour operators means the spots you will visit are not OVERRUN with other tourists and it is a much more peaceful and beautiful experience.
- Small Lagoon
- Cadlao Lagoon
- Natnat Beach
- Pasandigan Beach
- Paradise Beach
- Serenity Beach
Day 4 – ‘Tour B’ Sandbanks & Caves
Tour B is another day tour that does not run everyday. This is why you should book this one in advance and take advantage of less crowds that Tours A and D.
- Cathedral Cave
- Cudugnon Cave
- Pinagbuyutan Island
- Snake Island
- Entalula Island
Day 5 – Say goodbye to El Nido Palawan
Today, marks the end of this 5 day El Nido Itinerary, and the beginning of something else!
Today you will start your onward journey home or to your next destination in the Philippines.
OUR SUGGESTION: Take the ferry to Coron, Palawan and add on our 5 Day Ultimate Coron Itinerary
Alternatively, you can take a direct flight from El Nido and not taking the long 5+ hour drive to Puerto Princessa. You can do this with AirSwift who fly direct from El Nido to Manila, Cebu, Boracay and Bohol!
Explore Palawan: Continue your itinerary to Coron, Palawan
Coron Palawan: 5 Day Ultimate Itinerary & Complete Guide
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About El Nido Palawan
Q: How many days should I spend in El Nido?
A: A popular choice is an El Nido itinerary 5 days, which gives enough time to try the four tours (A, B, C, D), relax on Nacpan Beach, and enjoy sunsets at Las Cabanas Beach or Lio Beach. Short on time? Even a day El Nido itinerary can cover one full island hoping tour.
Q: What are the main El Nido island tours?
There are four main tours to choose from
- Tour A: Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Secret Lagoon, Seven Commando Beach (also called Commando Beach).
- Tour B: Snake Island, Cudugnon Cave, Cathedral Cave, Pinagbuyutan Island, Pasandigan Beach.
- Tour C: Hidden Beach, Secret Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Helicopter Island, Talisay Beach.
- Tour D: Cadlao Island, Natnat Beach, Paradise Beach, and other hidden gems.
Q: Where should I stay in El Nido?
|
Area |
Advantages |
Cons |
|---|---|---|
|
El Nido Town (Poblacion) |
Main tourist hub with a wide range of accommodations (budget hostels, boutique hotels, luxury resorts). Easy access to restaurants, bars, shops, local eateries, tour operators, beach clubs, and the bustling waterfront. Perfect if you want to be near everything for your itinerary. |
The beach area here isn’t great; crowded and busy. |
|
Corong-Corong (El Nido Palawan – Main Street) |
Located between El Nido Town and Las Cabanas Beach, making it a great base. Quieter than town but still with beachfront bars, dining options, and close to boat tours. Offers views of limestone cliffs and easy tricycle access. |
Beach not as nice as Las Cabanas. |
|
Las Cabanas Beach |
More secluded, with beautiful beaches and great views of Cadlao Island. Perfect for relaxing, enjoying sunsets, and beachfront dining. Lots of restaurants and bars, plus options from simple cottages to luxury resorts. |
Further from town, so island hopping tours start earlier. Restaurants and bars are pricier. |
El Nido town is best for budget travelers, with access to local restaurants, beach clubs, and easy transfers to island tours. For more comfort, Lio Beach offers modern hotels and direct access to El Nido Airport. If you want exclusivity, check into luxury resorts on Lagen Island or Miniloc Island.
Q: Can I combine El Nido with other parts of Palawan?
Absolutely! Many travelers include El Nido in a wider Palawan itinerary, starting in Coron, Puerto Princesa, Balabac and Port Barton.
Q: What makes El Nido unique compared to other beach destinations in the Philippines?
El Nido has a mix of dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons, hidden beaches, world war II history sites, and untouched natural beauty sets El Nido apart. Whether you’re on a private boat or joining a classic El Nido island hopping tour, every stop feels like discovering your new favorite island.
