Welcome to paradise! If you are planning a trip to El Nido, you have probably heard most about island hopping. It truly is the star of the show, but beyond boat tours, there are many other unique experiences to enjoy in El Nido.
From underwater adventures and surfing beaches to ziplining, hiking, cooking classes, and late-night massages, El Nido offers a well-rounded travel experience for every type of traveler.
In this guide, I will walk you through the best things to do in El Nido, including must-try activities, lesser-known experiences, and practical tips on how long to stay to fully enjoy everything this Palawan treasure has to offer.
Things to do in El Nido: Island Hopping
Island hopping is the highlight of visiting El Nido. The Bacuit Archipelago is famous for its turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and hidden beaches.
Most travelers explore it through the four classic island-hopping routes: Tours A, B, C, and D.
Along the main streets of El Nido town, you’ll find plenty of travel agencies offering these tours. Personally, I joined a tour with H Hospitality Travel & Tours, and it was a wonderful experience—the local staff were incredibly warm and attentive throughout the entire day.
H Hospitality Travel & Tours For inquiries, please contact :
- WhatsApp: 0917 1148776
- Email: hhospitalitytraveltour@gmail.com
Below is a quick overview of the four island-hopping tours:
| Tour Type | Tour A | Tour B | Tour C | Tour D |
| Feature | Iconic Lagoons & Limestone Cliffs | Caves & Sandbars | Hidden Beaches & Snorkeling Adventure | Quiet Lagoons & Beaches |
| Duration(Approx.) | 6-8 hours | 6-8 hours | 6-8 hours | 6-8 hours |
| Group Tour Price(Approx.) | PHP 1,200 ($20 USD) | PHP 1,300 ($24 USD) | PHP 1,400 ($27 USD) | PHP 1,200 ($20 USD) |
| Main Stops | Big LagoonSecret LagoonPayong-Payong BeachShimizu IslandSeven Commandos Beach | Snake Island Cudugnon Cave Cathedral Cave Pinagbuyutan Island ENTALULA Island | Hidden BeachSecret BeachHelicopter IslandTalisay BeachMatinloc Shrine | Small LagoonCadlao LagoonNat-Nat BeachParadise BeachPasandigan BeachBukal Beach |
| Best For | First-timers, families, and photographers. | Snorkelers and adventure seekers | Strong swimmers, snorkelers, and adventure seekers | Couples, beach lovers |
| Crowd Level | High (especially peak season) | Medium | Medium to High | Low to Medium |
Which El Nido tour is the best?
If your schedule allows, I highly recommend experiencing all four tours. However, if you’re short on time, prioritize Tours A and C to see the most iconic landscapes. Alternatively, choose Tours B and D to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere.
Pro-tips:
• Packing Essentials: Bring sunscreen, a hat, a water bottle and a waterproof bag ( you can bring your own aqua shoes or rent a pair at the beach).
• Weather Considerations: Tours may be cancelled due to rough sea conditions, sometimes as late as the morning of the tour. Make sure to check the refund policy before booking.
• Eco-Tourism Fee (ETDF): Base prices typically exclude the PHP 400 Eco-Fee and PHP 200 Lagoon Fee.
• Snorkeling Equipment: Confirm whether gear requires rental or if you need to bring your own. In most cases, you will need to bring your own, but it’s best to check in advance.
• Kayak Rentals: Kayaks are usually excluded from the package but are available for rent at lagoon stops.
Need a place to stay? We’ve secured exclusive reader discounts at these partner properties:
．Stay in Lio (walk to the airport): Piece Lio (code ENINSPL, 10% off)
．Stay in El Nido Town: H Hotel (ENINSHH, 10%) / S Resort (ENINSSR, 15%) / Z Garden (ENINSZG, 10%) / J Boutique (ENINSJB, 10%)
．Stay in Nacpan: Nacpan Beach Resort (ENINSNBR, 10%) / Nacpan Beach Glamping (ENINSNBG, 15%) / Nacpan Beach Villas (ENINSNBV, 10%)
Got questions? Feel free to DM us on Instagram @elnidoinsights.
Things to do in El Nido: Scuba Diving
If you are a water sports enthusiast with a bit of extra budget, I highly recommend adding scuba diving to your El Nido itinerary alongside island hopping. Beneath its dramatic limestone cliffs, El Nido reveals a rich underwater world that makes it one of the Philippines’ most rewarding dive destinations.
Most of the top dive sites are located around Bacuit Bay, including Nat Nat, South Miniloc, North Rock, and the famous Dilumacad Tunnel.
These sites feature vibrant coral gardens, steep walls, and a diverse array of marine life, such as colorful reef fish and sea turtles. Nearby Linapacan and Sibaltan also offer thrilling dives, and in the right season encounters with blacktip reef sharks and manta rays are possible.
Even without experience, El Nido is perfect for beginners. PADI centers provide everything from Discover Scuba for first-timers to Open Water certifications.
Whether you are new to diving or a seasoned diver, scuba diving in El Nido offers a completely different perspective on Palawan’s natural beauty that you simply cannot miss!
| Dive Site | Recommended For | Highlights & Marine Life |
| Nat Nat | Beginners | Close to El Nido townCalm, sheltered conditionsRich coral gardens and anemonesSea turtles, seahorses, and a wide variety of reef fish |
| South Miniloc | All levels | Coral gardensFish shoals, moray eels, yellowtail barracudas, fusiliers |
| North Rock | Intermediate to Advanced | Corals and pelagic sightingsOctopus, sea turtles, and schools of fish such as Golden Spadefish |
| Dilumacad Tunnel | Advanced | 40-meter-long underwater tunnel near Dilumacad Island.Light enters through ceiling openingsIdeal for divers who enjoy challenges and overhead environments |
PADI Official Website : Diving in El Nido
Diving Prices: Beginner dives and courses start at approximately PHP 5,400 per person.
Pro-Tips:
• Best Time: December to May, when waters are calm and warm.
• Peak Season: March to May offers the best visibility, though with higher tourist traffic.
• Eco-Tourism Fee (ETDF): PHP 400, valid for 5 days.
Things to do in El Nido: Surfing
While El Nido is famous for its lagoons and island-hopping tours, catching a wave is one of the most exciting activities during the right season. If you are a surfer looking for a rewarding experience in El Nido, you must add a “surf day” to your itinerary. It’s a refreshing change from boat tours and a great way to experience a different side of Palawan. There are two primary beaches you should have on your radar: Lio Beach and Duli Beach.
| Attractions | Lio Beach | Duli Beach |
| Vibe | Convenience and Comfort | The Surfer’s Sanctuary |
| The Waves | Usually small and mellow | Strong and consistent beach breaks |
| Facilities | Eco-friendly resort estate with restaurants, bars, and shops | Local surf schools on-site for board rentals and lessons |
| Accessibility | 15-minute tricycle ride or free shuttle from town | Approximately a one-hour ride from El Nido town |
| Environment | Developed and close to the airport | Wide, wild, and far less developed |
| Best for | Beginners or first-timers | Intermediate to advanced surfers |
Pro-tips:
- Best Time for Surfing: November to March.
- Beginner-Friendly: Lio Beach.
- Best Waves: Duli Beach.
Things to do in El Nido aside from island hopping
If you are tired of island hopping or not particularly interested in water sports, here are three popular activities you can try to gain a fresh perspective and create fun memories during your El Nido trip.
If keeping up a workout routine matters to you, our El Nido gym guide covers day pass prices and opening hours for the four main gyms in and around town.
Things to do in El Nido: Massage
After a full day exploring El Nido, one of my favorite ways to unwind was treating myself to a relaxing massage at H Signature Spa (formerly Oriental Spa). There are two convenient branches, one on the first floor of H Hotel and another next to J Boutique Hotel, it is easy to fit into any evening plan in town.
The spa features elegant interiors, soft lighting, and calming music, creating a peaceful escape from the lively streets outside. The staff welcomes you with detox water and a soothing foot wash, a small but thoughtful touch that set the tone for the experience.
I visited H Signature Spa several times during my stay and tried everything from Traditional Filipino massages to nourishing body scrubs. Each treatment felt personalized and deeply relaxing. While prices are slightly higher than basic massage shops, the quality and comfort make it well worth it.
H Signature Spa Information
| H Signature Spa (H Hotel Branch) | H Signature Spa (Main Branch) | |
| Location | 1F, H Hotel, El Nido | Next to J Boutique Hotel, El Nido |
| Phone | +63 969 453 5736 | +63 956 912 6039 |
| Capacity | 13 seats | 40 seats |
H Signature Spa (H Hotel Branch)
Things to do in El Nido: Yoga
El Nido has a small but real wellness scene, with rooftop, beachfront and jungle studios spread across town, Corong-Corong, Lio, Nacpan and Duli. Most welcome drop-ins and group classes start from around PHP 800. See our full guide to yoga in El Nido for class schedules and prices.
Things to do in El Nido: Zipline
El Nido Zipline is located at Las Cabañas Beach, about a 10-minute ride from the Town. The zipline stretches approximately 750 meters between two elevated points, allowing you to soar over turquoise waters and lush limestone headlands while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of Bacuit Bay from above.
You can choose between a sitting or “Superman” (horizontal) position and opt for either a one-way or two-way ride. After the ride, you can relax at Las Cabañas Beach with a sunset cocktail. It’s a must-try for adventure seekers and photography lovers alike.
Elnido Zipline – Palawan Zipline Adventure Inc.
- Operating Hours: 09:00 AM–11:30 AM & 01:00 PM–04:30 PM
- Social Media: Facebook
- Price:
Sitting position: one-way PHP 500/ two-way PHP 1000
Superman (horizontal) position: one-wayPHP 600/ two-way PHP 1200
Pro-tips :
Best Time to Go: Morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
Peak Season: January to April, waiting times can be longer due to high tourist volume.
Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate.
(Expect an approximately 8-minute uphill walk to reach the zipline platform, which can be a bit of a climb.)
(Source:Elnido Zipline)
Things to do in el nido aside from island hopping: Cooking Class
This hands-on workshop takes place in a cozy kitchen in town and teaches you how to prepare traditional Filipino dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, while also offering meaningful insights into Philippine food culture.
The class runs for approximately three hours and includes preparing five dishes, ranging from starters and main courses to dessert. Guided by an enthusiastic instructor, the experience is both educational and delicious. You not only get to enjoy the food you make, but also the warm, engaging atmosphere of the class. It’s a fun and flavorful way to connect with local life during your stay in El Nido.
El Kusina Cooking Class
- Operating Hours: 08:00 AM–09:00 PM
- Social Media: Facebook/Instagram
- Price: PHP 1800 per person (Reservation required)
Things to do in el nido aside from island hopping: Hiking
El Nido is not just about beaches and sand; the hiking trails here offer unique ways to discover the island’s diverse landscapes. Below are three recommended attractions—whether you’re scaling cliffs or exploring caves, these inland adventures are essential for every itinerary!
| Attraction | El Nido Via Ferrata Canopy Walk | lle Cave |
| Features | A safe, metal-railed walkway and suspension bridge system with panoramic views of El Nido town and Bacuit Bay. | An archaeological site featuring a small museum near the entrance, bats, unique rock formations, and evidence of ancient human habitation. |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to Moderate: Suitable for families and all fitness levels. | Easy to Moderate: The cave entrance requires no hiking / climbing. You can drive and park just opposite. There is a ‘hike’ to the top of the small limestone hill that overlooks the surrounding area though. You climb through the cave and come out on the other side, and then climb to the top. Guide is required. |
| Location | A short walk from El Nido town; guided entry only. | Approximately 45–60 minutes from El Nido town by scooter or tricycle. |
| Operating Hours &Duration | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.Approximately 20-30 minutes. | 08:00 AM – 04:00 PMVisit duration varies. |
| Entrance Fee | Hanging Bridge and Viewdeck: PHP400Dreamcatchers: PHP700(includes safety gear and guide) | Approx. PHP 200–300 (local guide often required) |
How many days in El Nido is enough?
Deciding how many days in El Nido is enough ultimately depends on your time, budget, and travel style. A minimum of 3 to 4 days is sufficient to experience El Nido’s highlights, including the most popular island-hopping tours (Tours A and C) and a visit to Nacpan Beach.
If you prefer to enjoy multiple island tours without feeling rushed, while still leaving time for activities such as scuba diving, surfing, inland exploration, or side trips to nearby areas like Sibaltan , Puerto Princesa, or Coron, 7 days is highly recommended.
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Conclusion
After exploring the major and most popular things to do in El Nido, you should now have a clearer picture of this destination and a better idea of how to plan your trip.
El Nido is raw, beautiful, and refreshing, with an incredible variety of experiences to offer. Whether you are a sports enthusiast, an adventurer, a food lover, or simply seeking relaxation, El Nido delivers memorable moments at every pace.
I hope this guide inspires you to look beyond the typical tourist paths, discover your own slice of magic, and leave El Nido with truly unforgettable experiences.
Suggestions:
- Kiteboarding from Amihan or Sibaltan
- Offroad Motorbike tours from Lio
