El Nido Group Tour A with Beach Lunch

Travelers dreaming of turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, and secluded beaches will find this El Nido Group Tour A with Beach Lunch offers an excellent way to tick off those bucket list sights. Priced at around $44.95 per person, and with an average booking lead time of 23 days, this tour combines adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery into one well-paced 7-hour experience. While it’s not a private tour, the small group size (max 50 travelers) generally ensures a friendly, organized atmosphere. The inclusion of lunch on the beach plus access to popular spots like the Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon makes this a popular choice.

What really shines about this tour is its access to El Nido’s most iconic lagoons and hidden beaches—some of which are only reachable by boat. A particular highlight is the chance to kayak through tranquil waters and snorkel amid vibrant coral reefs. We also appreciate the knowledgeable guides who help make the experience smooth and safe, especially for first-timers. On the flip side, the pedestrian snorkeling—where the fish are small and less abundant—might not satisfy avid underwater photographers, so manage expectations accordingly.

The tour is best suited to travelers seeking a balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and downtime. People with mobility issues should note that some stops require walking in water and climbing ladders, but overall, most you will find it accessible and rewarding. If you’re after a comprehensive, value-packed day exploring the highlights of El Nido’s islands, this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery and easy boat access to lagoons, beaches, and hidden spots.
• Balanced itinerary with opportunities to kayak, snorkel, relax, and take photos.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance safety and provide local insights.
• Affordable price point, offering good value given the stops and included lunch.
• Limited snorkeling fish diversity, slightly pedestrian undersea experience.
• Some physical activity required, including walking and ladder climbing at stops.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Big Lagoon – The Iconic Entrance to El Nido’s Natural Wonders

Your journey begins at the Big Lagoon, one of El Nido’s most famous landmarks. The lagoon’s crystal-clear turquoise waters and towering limestone cliffs create a postcard-perfect scene. Here, the highlight is kayaking through calm waters, which allows you to marvel at the dramatic landscape up close. You can also swim and snorkel, although reviewers note that the tropical fish tend to be small and less abundant—not quite the vibrant underwater spectacle some might hope for. For many, just paddling around and snapping photos of the cliffs is enough to justify the stop. Admission to the lagoon costs P200 per person.

Shimizu Island – Underwater and Relaxed Beach Time

Next, you’ll visit Shimizu Island, known for its vibrant coral reefs and peaceful beach. Snorkelers will enjoy exploring the underwater world, where colorful corals and tropical fish are visible, albeit with the caveat that the fish are mostly small, as some reviews point out. The island’s scenic beach offers a perfect spot for a picnic lunch, which is included in the tour. Many guests comment on the helpfulness of guides and boat drivers, who assist with snorkeling gear and safety. It’s an ideal blend of underwater adventure and relaxing beachside atmosphere.

Payong-Payong Beach – A Quiet Escape

For those craving peace and solitude, Payong-Payong Beach offers powdery white sands and shallow, clear waters. Surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush greenery, it’s a perfect spot to unwind after the more active stops. This beach is relatively secluded, making it a favorite for quiet sunbathing and swimming. Its calm environment is especially valued by travelers wanting a break from the busier tourist spots.

Secret Lagoon – The Hidden Gem

One of the tour’s most talked-about stops, the Secret Lagoon feels like stepping into a fantasy. Accessible through a small opening in a limestone wall, the lagoon is a secluded pool surrounded by dramatic cliffs. It offers an adventurous feeling—a tiny entryway leads you into a tranquil, almost mystical space. Swimmers and photographers will love the crystal clear waters and striking rock formations. As one reviewer states, “Once inside, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a hidden world,” emphasizing its unique charm.

Seven Commandos Beach – Relaxation with a View

The final stop is Seven Commandos Beach, a classic tropical paradise with white sand, coconut palms, and inviting waters. Here, you can swim, snorkel, or simply sit back and soak in the views. Several guests mention the small beach bars that serve fresh coconuts and snacks, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the laid-back island vibe. The hour and a half here is enough to unwind and take some photos before heading back.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

The tour operates with pickup from El Nido town—a bonus for convenience, although additional charges may apply if you’re staying outside town. The boat ride is the main transportation between stops, providing comfortable and scenic cruising through El Nido’s protected waters. The group size is capped at 50 travelers, which helps maintain a good balance between social atmosphere and personal space.

Duration and Pacing

At approximately 7 hours, this tour offers a full day of activity without feeling rushed. Most of the stops are around 1 to 1.5 hours, with plenty of time for swimming, relaxing, or exploring. Lunch on the beach is included, giving you a chance to refuel with fresh local food and drinks.

Equipment and Extras

While snorkeling gear can be rented for P100 per set, some reviewers recommend bringing your own mask if you plan to snorkel extensively. Kayaks are available for P400 per kayak, suitable for 2 people, but not included in the base price. If you’re keen on paddling through lagoons or exploring further, bringing your own gear or renting on-site might be worthwhile.

Physical Considerations

The tour involves some walking in water and climbing ladders at stops like the Secret Lagoon. Reviewers note that mobility issues may require extra caution or assistance. Still, many guests mentioned that guides and staff were very helpful, making it manageable for most.

Cost and Value

At $44.95, the tour offers great value, especially considering it includes entrance fees, a hearty beach lunch, and guided support. Extra costs—like kayak rental or snorkeling masks—are reasonable, and it’s easy to see the value in visiting multiple iconic spots in one day.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

One reviewer, David, mentioned, “Enjoyable trip but make sure to ask for small life jackets in advance if you have small children,” which underscores the importance of communicating your needs beforehand. Another pointed out how the crew was fun and helpful, especially for travelers with mobility challenges. Richard praised the well-organized day, the kayaking, snorkeling, and a delicious lunch on the beach. These insights highlight the friendly guides and the overall smooth flow of the day.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides an excellent introduction to El Nido’s most famous sights with a well-planned itinerary that balances adventure, relaxation, and sightseeing. With stunning views at every stop, the opportunity to kayak and snorkel, and a peaceful beach lunch, it’s a solid choice for most travelers wanting a comprehensive island-hopping experience.

While the snorkeling may not thrill underwater photographers seeking vibrant marine life, the scenic lagoons and hidden beaches more than compensate. The knowledgeable guides ensure safety and give helpful tips, making it suitable even for those new to sea excursions.

Overall, El Nido Group Tour A is great value for a full day’s worth of memorable sights. It’s especially recommended for travelers looking for a mix of active and laid-back moments with picture-perfect landscapes as a backdrop.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors to El Nido who want a reliable, organized overview of the area’s top attractions. It’s also good for families or less mobile travelers, thanks to the helpful guides. Adventure seekers will appreciate the kayak and snorkel options, while those seeking relaxation will enjoy the beaches and scenic vistas. If you’re on a budget but want to see a lot in one day, this tour balances cost and quality well.

FAQ

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup from El Nido town is included, but extra charges may apply if you’re staying outside town.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers entrance fees to lagoons, a beach lunch, and the services of guides and boat crew. Equipment like snorkeling masks and kayaks are additional.

Can I rent snorkeling gear?
Yes, snorkeling masks are available for P100 per set, or you can bring your own.

Are the activities suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers can participate, but some stops require walking in water or climbing ladders. Small children should be supervised, and it’s recommended to ask for small life jackets in advance.

Is the tour good value?
Considering the included entrance fees, lunch, and access to top sights, the price of around $44.95 offers decent value for a day full of memorable scenery.

What should I bring?
Bring waterproof bags, sunscreen, water, and appropriate footwear for walking or climbing at stops.

How crowded does it get?
The group size is limited to 50, which helps prevent overcrowding, but be prepared for a lively, social atmosphere.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour is weather-dependent; cancellations due to poor weather are possible. You can reschedule or get a full refund if the tour is canceled.

Final Verdict

El Nido Group Tour A with Beach Lunch is a fantastic way to explore some of the most beautiful spots in El Nido without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. It offers a well-rounded experience—from iconic lagoons and secret spots to relaxing beaches—at a price that’s hard to beat. Suitable for families, first-timers, and adventure lovers alike, this tour delivers a memorable day in paradise with the guidance of friendly, knowledgeable locals.

If you’re after a full-day adventure with a good mix of scenic views, light activity, and downtime, this tour ticks most boxes. Just remember to manage your expectations regarding underwater life and be prepared for some physical activity. Overall, it’s a trip that captures the essence of what makes El Nido so special.