Island Hopping in El Nido

After a day of touring the islands in El Nido, it became obvious to us why this is one of the most popular destinations in Palawan. For starters, it has an endless array of cascading limestone cliffs, a truly impressive site. The captivating view from the main beachfront is just a glimpse to what lies beyond. From secret lagoons to white sand beaches and majestic caves (see our previous post) El Nido is a place full of mystery and enchantment.

Island Hopping Tours are an all-day excursion (9am-4pm) and advertise for about 500-700 pesos (approx $11-$15 USD) per person, depending on the destinations in the package. By arrranging a tour through a local banca-boat driver (next to Rico's Cottages where we stayed,) we got a deal for about 400 pesos per person for Tour A & 500 pesos for Tour B (in a group of four.) Fresh grilled fish, salad, and fruit are all included. Just bring your own water and beverages of choice. If you're yearning for a little more adventure and a day tour is just not enough for you, overnight packages are also available.

We suggest a hearty breakfast on the beach to start. Several restaurants offer breakfast with eggs, toast, and fresh-brewed coffee. You'll need the energy for a day of island hopping. Now away we go!

A view from within Small Lagoon and some other impressive limestone formations along the way.

Snake Island, appropriately named for it's winding "S" shaped sandbar.

Pinagbuyutan Island

Enthusiastic snorkelers swimming towards the lagoons.

Our multi-talented banca driver Dan Dan, cleverly constructing a hat from palm leaves.

Lunch on the tours consisted of fresh grilled fish and salad, ripe mango and bananas.

7 Commando Beach is usually the last stop on tour A.  The only island with a relaxing small refreshment stand, it's the perfect place to enjoy a Buko (Coconut) juice after a day of island hopping. Included in the 50 pesos ($1.25 USD) the woman at the stand can also open up the Buko after your last sip and make a spoon for you to scoop the remains of the creamy flesh. Now that's a taste of paradise!