El Nido Full Day Tour C with Buffet Lunch

El Nido’s Tour C is often called the most adventurous of the popular boat excursions, and for good reasons. This full-day adventure takes you through some of the most breathtaking spots in the area — from hidden beaches with towering limestone cliffs to secret coves accessible only by kayak or boat. It’s a solid choice for travelers craving a mix of scenery, snorkeling, and laid-back beach time all packed into about 7 to 8 hours.

What we love about this tour is how it balances activity with relaxation — you’ll get plenty of opportunity to swim, snorkel, and explore, but also enough downtime to soak in the views or just chill on the sand. Plus, the included buffet lunch right on the beach? Absolute highlight for many.

One thing to keep in mind is that it’s a popular tour, so booking well in advance (on average 37 days) is advisable—especially at the $44.95 per person price point, which offers good value considering the number of stops and experiences. However, some reviewers mentioned last-minute schedule tweaks and the need to bring your own gear, so a bit of flexibility and preparation can go a long way.

This tour is well-suited for those who love a mix of scenic beauty, water activities, and a taste of local lore, whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family. If you’re after a well-rounded day of island hopping with impressive views and a tasty meal, Tour C could be just the ticket.

• Stunning scenery at Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, and Talisay Beach offers some of the most iconic limestone formations.
• Great value for the price, especially considering the buffet lunch and multiple stops.
• Knowledgeable guides and a friendly crew make the day more enjoyable, according to reviews.
• Snorkeling and swimming opportunities abound, but bringing your own gear is recommended.
• Weather-dependent itinerary adjustments mean some stops may change or be inaccessible.
• Limited included amenities, so be prepared to bring essentials like water, snorkel gear, and sun protection.

Starting the Day: Pickup and Timing

The adventure kicks off early—most tours start between 8:30 and 9:00 AM, with a pickup service offered if you’re staying within El Nido town. If you’re outside town, additional charges might apply, so it’s worth confirming your pickup point ahead of time. The tour lasts roughly 7 to 8 hours, with a maximum group size of around 50 travelers, which strikes a balance between lively camaraderie and manageable crowds.

The guiding team, including Captain Mark and his crew, are consistently praised for their friendliness and helpfulness. One review from Jennifer_C highlights how the crew even made anklets for guests, assisted with boarding, and introduced tasting fresh sea urchin — small gestures that elevate the experience.

The Itinerary: What’s Included?

Stop 1: Secret Beach (1.5 hours)

This secluded spot features towering limestone rocks and a peaceful sandy stretch. The highlight here is the tranquility and the view of limestone formations that seem to rise directly from the ocean. Visitors get plenty of time to swim and relax, and many reviews mention how memorable the scenery is. Jennifer_C found the crew very helpful, especially with emotional moments like boarding and getting in and out of the boat, making this stop smooth and enjoyable.

Stop 2: Hidden Beach (1.5 hours)

Another must-see, Hidden Beach is famous for its limestone backdrop and crystal-clear waters. Reviewer Piedad_P notes that the schedule was adjusted last minute due to water conditions, which can happen frequently. Nevertheless, most agree that the view and the photo opportunities here are worth it. Expect a bit of a trek to reach it, but the effort pays off with a picture-perfect backdrop.

Stop 3: Matinloc Shrine (1.5 hours)

This spot combines a picturesque white-sand beach with limestone cliffs and historical significance. While the shrine itself isn’t heavily detailed in the reviews, the beaches and views are consistently praised. Expect to see towering limestone walls and swim in clear, inviting waters.

Stop 4: Talisay Beach (1.5 hours)

Located in Tapiutan Strait, this beach is described as one of the most stunning views you’ll ever see in El Nido. Several travelers mention that the scenery here is genuinely breathtaking, with some noting they were “blown away” by the vista. It’s a perfect spot for relaxing, swimming, or snapping incredible photos.

Stop 5: Dilumacad Island (Helicopter Island) (1.5 hours)

Often called Helicopter Island due to its shape, this location offers lush limestone hills and pristine beaches. Reviewers have enjoyed snorkeling here and kayaking to nearby beaches with crystal waters. It’s a flexible stop that allows you to spend as much time in the water as you want.

Food and Refreshments

The buffet lunch is typically enjoyed right on the beach, and reviews confirm it’s more than enough for a full day of activities. Many appreciated the homemade feel of the meal, saying it added to the relaxed atmosphere. However, the tour does not include bottled water or snorkeling gear, so bringing your own supplies is advised. Some guests noted that the crew did not provide water on the boat, highlighting the importance of packing your own.

Additional Costs and Tips

While the tour costs $44.95, several optional extras are not included, such as kayak rentals (PHP 400), snorkeling masks (PHP 70), and environmental fees (PHP 400). The Big Lagoon entrance fee (PHP 200) is also separate. Budgeting for these extras ahead of time allows for a smoother experience.

Most reviews recommend bringing your own snorkeling gear, water, sun protection, and perhaps a waterproof camera. The crew is helpful but not responsible for personal gear, and some noted that the tour’s schedule can be affected by weather or local operations, leading to last-minute changes.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights

One standout from reviewer Jesus_P was the chance to enjoy a homemade buffet and take dynamic photos, with the captain actively engaging with guests. Another appreciated aspect is how the crew sometimes makes small gestures, like helping guests in and out of boats or offering fresh sea urchin, which personalizes the trip.

Some guests, like Piedad_P, mentioned that last-minute schedule changes due to water conditions impacted the experience, with some stops replaced or shortened. While this unpredictability is part of island-hopping adventures, it’s worth being flexible.

Overall Value

For $44.95, this tour offers a lot: multiple stops at iconic sites, a substantial lunch, and the chance to explore some of the Philippines’ most stunning beaches and limestone formations. When you consider that many reviews call the crew “professional” and “friendly,” and highlight the scenery, it’s clear this tour provides good value—especially for travelers who prioritize natural beauty and water activities.

If you love scenic beaches, limestone cliffs, and swimming in crystal-clear waters, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a full day of island hopping without the high price tag. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an active, scenic, and relaxing trip will probably appreciate the balance this tour strikes.

However, those seeking a completely predictable schedule might find the last-minute shifts challenging. Also, bring your own snorkel gear and water — the tour’s amenities are limited, but the beauty of the spots makes it worth the extra prep.

El Nido’s Tour C is a well-rounded, adventure-filled day in some of the most photogenic and serene spots in the Philippines. It’s a fantastic option for those wanting stunning scenery, some water-based fun, and a chance to enjoy authentic local hospitality. The inclusion of a homemade buffet lunch adds to the relaxed vibe, and the knowledgeable guides help elevate the experience.

While last-minute schedule changes and limited included gear might require some travelers to come prepared, the overall value and the chance to see secret beaches and limestone formations make this a worthwhile choice. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure and leisure, and who value authentic, scenic experiences over perfection.

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is included for guests staying within El Nido town. If you’re outside the town, an extra charge might apply.

What time does the tour start?
Most tours begin between 8:30 and 9:00 AM, with pick-up times confirmed when booking.

How long is the tour?
Expect about 7 to 8 hours of activity, including multiple stops and lunch.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers all the stops, a buffet lunch on the beach, and a friendly crew. Pickup within town is also included.

Are water and snorkeling gear provided?
No, bottled water and snorkeling gear are not included. Guests are advised to bring their own water, masks, snorkels, and sun protection.

Can I bring my own snorkel gear?
Yes, bringing your own gear is recommended, as it is not provided onboard.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, optional extras like kayak rentals (PHP 400), snorkeling masks (PHP 70), and park entry fees (PHP 200) are paid separately.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour operates in good weather conditions; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s generally family-friendly, but always check for specific age restrictions or health considerations.

How many people typically join this tour?
While up to 50 travelers may be on a trip, reviews suggest the group size is manageable, and guides are attentive to individual needs.

In sum, if you’re craving a scenic, activity-packed day with authentic local hospitality and stunning views, El Nido’s Tour C is a solid choice. Pack smart, stay flexible, and you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of this beautiful archipelago.