Small-Group El Nido Island Hopping Tour

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and limestone cliffs looming overhead, the El Nido Island Hopping Tour A promises a full day of spectacular sights in Palawan. Known for its pristine lagoons and vibrant marine life, this tour has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from travelers who’ve experienced it firsthand. It’s a well-regarded choice for those wanting a comprehensive, guided day out at a reasonable price — just $23.50 per person, which is hard to beat for the value packed into roughly seven hours of adventure.

What really catches the eye about this tour is the small-group setting coupled with knowledgeable guides, making it feel more personalized than large, crowded tours. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary hits the same popular spots as other operators, so if you’re after a unique or exclusive experience, you might find this less distinct. Still, for many visitors, the stunning scenery and friendly guides outweigh the minor drawbacks. This tour suits travelers craving a well-organized day of island exploration, especially those who value comfort, good value, and authentic insights from local guides.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $23.50, the tour offers excellent value considering the sights you’ll visit.
• Visually Breathtaking Sites: Including lagoons, beaches, and snorkeling spots that showcase Palawan’s natural beauty.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Group Size: Limited to 25 travelers, maintaining a friendly, less crowded environment.
• Inclusive Elements: Boat transfers, picnic lunch, and safety gear included; some fees like lagoon and eco fees are extra.
• Considerations: No hotel drop-off, so plan accordingly, and bring your own towel and snorkeling gear if you want to maximize your experience.

Starting Point and Timing

The adventure begins early, with pick-up between 8:30 and 9:00 am from your hotel within El Nido town proper, making it a seamless start for most travelers. The tour wraps up around 4 pm back at the meet-up point, leaving plenty of daylight to reflect on the day’s highlights or explore more of the town.

Big Lagoon: The Star Attraction

First stop, the Big Lagoon, is often the highlight for most visitors. Surrounded by soaring limestone cliffs dotted with dark, jagged limestone formations, this spot screams “postcard-perfect.” The shallow water at the entrance transitions into deeper, vividly emerald-green waters, ideal for swimming and taking photos. Reviewers describe the lagoon as “amazing,” though they also note that admission fees are extra — so budget for that.

Secret Lagoon: A Hidden Treasure

Next is the Secret Lagoon, a tiny, tucked-away pool surrounded by impressive rock formations. It’s an excellent spot for a quieter moment or some private swimming, giving a contrast to the more popular lagoons. The fact that it’s free to enter makes it a favorite among travelers looking for a little serenity.

Seven Commando Beach: White Sand Paradise

With about two hours allocated, this beach offers soft white sands, swaying coconut trees, and striking limestone cliffs framing the turquoise waters. The area’s natural beauty makes it an ideal spot for relaxing, sunbathing, or a quick stroll. Many review comments mention appreciating the clear waters and scenic surroundings — perfect for a laid-back picnic or just soaking up the sun.

Shimizu Island: Snorkeler’s Haven

Afterward, the tour visits Shimizu Island, notable for its tall black limestone cliffs and vibrant underwater life. This stop is primarily recommended for snorkeling, with many travelers mentioning crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. The island also boasts a pretty beach, making it a good spot for relaxing after some aquatic activity.

Payong-Payong Beach: Picturesque and Quiet

The day ends with a visit to Payong-Payong Beach, a small, charming white sand beach on Miniloc Island. Surrounded by rocky formations and mountains, it offers an excellent chance for a final swim or photo session. Reviewers love its “small, scenic” quality — a fitting end to a full day of island hopping.

Included are boat transfers, a picnic-style lunch with water, a licensed guide, and safety vests — essentials for a safe, comfortable day. The tour is organized by Sia Travels, which has a reputation for friendly service and professional guides.

Extras like lagoon entrance fees and eco-tourism development fees aren’t covered in the base price, so travelers should budget accordingly. You’ll need to bring your own towel and snorkeling gear if you want to fully enjoy the underwater spots. Optional rental gear, aqua shoes, and kayaks are available, which can significantly enhance your day at the beaches and snorkeling spots.

Practical Tips

• Meet-up point: Cafe Elena Suites, first floor, in El Nido town. Easy to reach via public transport or walk if you’re nearby.
• Group size: Max 25 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and manageable.
• Duration: Approximately 7 hours, so wear comfortable clothes and bring sun protection.
• Hotel drop-off: Not included; plan to return to the meeting point or organize your own transport back.

Reviewers consistently comment on the friendly, knowledgeable guides who enhance the trip with local insights and tips. One reviewer, Livia_O, praised the tour as “nice,” noting that despite the crowds, the guides made the experience worthwhile. Another, Rod_C, acknowledged that the destinations are the same across operators, but how each operator runs their tour makes a difference. He pointed out some initial disorganization, but appreciated the crew’s efforts in making the day enjoyable.

The stunning scenery seems to be the main draw, with many visitors remarking on the breathtaking lagoons and beaches. For snorkelers and beach lovers alike, the clear waters and relaxed atmosphere are ideal.

This small-group tour is perfect for travelers looking for value, comfort, and guided insight. It suits those who want to see the main highlights of El Nido without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. The price point makes it accessible, and the friendly guides make it more engaging. It’s particularly good for first-timers or those short on time who want a comprehensive day of island highlights.

However, if you’re seeking exclusive, off-the-beaten-path experiences or highly personalized tours, you might find this more crowded or predictable. The fact that all operators hit the same spots could mean similar experiences across different providers, but the quality of guides and organization can make a noticeable difference.

The Small-Group El Nido Island Hopping Tour offers a great balance of value, scenic beauty, and ease of access. For just over twenty dollars, you get a full day of exploring some of Palawan’s most iconic sights, with the reassurance of a licensed guide and safety gear. The stunning lagoons, beaches, and snorkeling opportunities ensure you’ll leave with plenty of memorable moments.

While it’s not a tour that offers exclusive access or hidden gems, it’s a solid choice for those wanting a well-organized, friendly, and scenic introduction to El Nido’s islands. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a beach bum, or just looking to tick some breathtaking spots off your bucket list, this tour covers the essentials beautifully.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with pick-up between 8:30 and 9:00 am from your hotel within El Nido town proper.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to consider the physical demands of boat transfers and walking on rocky or sandy surfaces. The group size is limited to 25, which helps with comfort.

Are there any additional fees I should be aware of?
Yes, the lagoon and eco-tourism development fees are not included in the price and should be budgeted for separately.

What should I bring with me?
Bring your own towel, snorkeling gear if you plan to snorkel, sun protection, and perhaps a hat or cap for shade.

Does the tour include hotel drop-off?
No, the tour ends back at the meeting point. You’ll need to organize your own transportation afterward.

Can I rent snorkeling gear and kayaks?
Yes, these are available as optional rentals, which can enhance your experience at spots like Shimizu Island.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

This tour offers a wonderful way to see the highlights of Palawan’s iconic islands at a budget-friendly price, with the added bonus of friendly guides and a relaxed group setting. It’s perfect for those wanting a taste of paradise without the fuss, making it a worthwhile addition to your Palawan itinerary.