El Nido Island Hopping Tour A with Lunch

El Nido Island Hopping Tour A with Lunch: A Complete Guide to Amazing Islands

Travelers seeking the perfect day in Palawan often turn to the famous El Nido Island Hopping Tours, and among them, Tour A is a standout. Offering visits to five incredible islands, this half-day adventure promises crystal-clear waters, hidden lagoons, and pristine beaches—all topped with a delicious Filipino-style lunch. With a modest price point of around $24 per person, it’s a popular choice that’s booked on average 23 days in advance.

What we love about this tour is how accessible it is—combining stunning natural sights with good value and friendly guides. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the tour’s schedule is fixed, so if you’re after total flexibility, it might require some planning. Overall, it’s an excellent pick for those wanting to see some of Palawan’s most iconic sights without breaking the bank, especially if you’re a first-timer or traveling with family.

Key Points

• Affordable adventure: At just $24, this tour offers great value for a full day of island exploration.
• Variety of stops: Three different tour options mean you can tailor your experience—whether you prefer lagoons, beaches, or caves.
• Expert guides and good service: Reviewers consistently mention helpful, friendly guides that make the day enjoyable.
• Inclusion of lunch and snorkeling: A hearty Filipino-style meal and free snorkel gear enhance your experience.
• Group size: With a maximum of 30 travelers, it’s a comfortably paced tour.
• Clear itinerary: The stops are well-organized, with enough time to enjoy each location.

How the Tour Works: An In-Depth Look

Booking and Meeting Point

The adventure begins bright and early at 9:00 am from Jarace Grill on Rizal Street in El Nido. The tour’s easy access near public transportation is a plus, saving you from complicated transfers. Once booked, you’ll receive a mobile ticket, and most travelers book at least three weeks in advance, reflecting its popularity.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, making for a full but manageable day. With a maximum of 30 travelers, it feels intimate enough to enjoy but lively enough to share the experience with others. The small group size also means your guide can give more personalized attention, which many reviewers appreciated.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour includes round-trip boat transfers between islands, a crucial detail since hopping between these remote destinations requires reliable boat service. The vessel is typically comfortable, and the crew is known for their friendly attitude, as highlighted in reviews. Expect to be on the water for most of the day, with some time for swimming, relaxing, and exploring.

Price and Value

Costing about $24 per person, this is a budget-friendly way to access some of Palawan’s most breathtaking sights. Included in this price are boat transfers, a local guide, and lunch, which many reviewers describe as surprisingly generous—full of fruits, vegetables, fish, and a variety of meats, served with rice. Additional costs are the El Nido Eco-Tourism Development Fee (400 PHP), which is payable locally, plus optional rentals like snorkel gear, kayaks, and aqua shoes.

Exploring the Stops: What to Expect

Stop 1: Secret Lagoon

Our journey kicks off at the Secret Lagoon, a hidden gem nestled inside an island. Its name hints at its secrecy—this lagoon is tucked away, accessible through a small opening in the rock, leading to an enclosed, tranquil pool with turquoise waters. The shallow entrance makes it perfect for a quick swim or just relaxing with a view. According to reviews, this spot is a true highlight, with one traveler mentioning how pristine and untouched it feels.

What makes it special? Its seclusion gives a sense of discovery, and the crystal-clear waters are ideal for snapping photos or cooling off after a warm boat ride.

Stop 2: Shimizu Island

Next, we head to Shimizu Island, known for its sprawling white-sand beach fringed by lush greenery. The sand is soft, perfect for lounging or a quick stroll. This stop is also a fantastic snorkeling spot, with reviewers noting the clear blue waters teeming with marine life.

One guest appreciated the balance of activities here, stating, “you can relax on the beach or jump in for a snorkel adventure.” The island’s natural beauty makes it an ideal place for a picnic or just soaking up the sun.

Stop 3: Seven Commandos Beach

The third stop is Seven Commandos Beach, a broad stretch of shoreline backed by limestone cliffs and thick jungle. It’s often praised for its peaceful vibe and stunning scenery. Here, you can relax, swim, or explore the surrounding limestone formations.

A reviewer described this spot as “refreshing and rejuvenating,” emphasizing the lush greenery and clean, inviting waters. It’s a good spot to unwind, especially after a busy morning exploring other islands.

Optional Extra: Big Lagoon

While the tour typically visits the main stops, some reviewers mentioned the Big Lagoon as a ‘premium’ destination that requires an entrance fee. If included, it’s renowned for its towering limestone cliffs and calm waters—perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding, if available.

Food and Snorkeling: What’s Included and What to Expect

The Lunch

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the lunch, served mid-day on one of the islands. Reviewers agree that the meal is hearty and well-prepared, full of fresh fruits, veggies, and a variety of meats including fish, chicken, and pork. It’s a generous spread that keeps everyone energized for the rest of the day.

Snorkel Equipment

Free snorkel gear is provided, making it easy to jump into the water and explore the vibrant underwater world. Many reviewers raved about the snorkeling opportunities, especially at Shimizu Island, where marine life is abundant. If you want to rent additional equipment like kayaks or aqua shoes, those are available for an extra fee.

Tips for a Great Experience

• Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment.
• Pack a dry bag for your valuables and a hat for sun protection.
• If you’re not comfortable kayaking or snorkeling, don’t worry—most activities are optional, and guides are helpful.

What Reviewers Loved and Noticed

• Knowledgeable guides: Multiple reviews highlight guides like Ariel and others for their helpfulness and friendliness, making sure everyone feels safe and informed.
• Stunning scenery: The islands’ limestone formations, lagoons, and beaches consistently impress visitors.
• Good value for money: The tour includes boat transfers, lunch, and guided commentary—all at a very reasonable price.
• Food quality: Many comments focus on the generous, tasty lunch that exceeds expectations.
• Less crowded experience: By taking a different route than most tours, some travelers enjoyed fewer crowds at the popular spots.

A Few Caveats

• Environmental fee: The 400 PHP fee isn’t included in the initial price and needs to be paid locally.
• Limited time at each stop: With only 30 minutes at some locations, you need to be efficient to see everything.
• Potential for extra costs: Kayak, snorkel equipment, and entrance fees (like Big Lagoon’s) are additional.
• Weather dependency: Like all boat tours, this depends heavily on good weather—poor conditions may lead to cancellations or changes.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Island Hopping Tour A is perfect if you’re looking to see a variety of iconic Palawan sights without spending a fortune. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview, families seeking a safe and relaxed experience, or solo travelers eager to meet others. The inclusion of a hearty lunch and snorkeling gear makes it a day packed with value and adventure.

If you’re keen on exploring caves, lagoons, and beaches in a single day, this tour delivers a well-rounded experience. Conversely, if you prefer total flexibility or specialized activities, you might want to consider other options or private tours.

The Sum Up

In essence, El Nido Island Hopping Tour A offers a fantastic taste of Palawan’s natural beauty at an accessible price. The stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase the best of what El Nido has to offer, from secret lagoons to lush beaches. The knowledgeable guides, delicious meals, and scenic spots make for a day full of memorable moments.

While it’s not without its small drawbacks—like the need to pay extra for certain fees or the fixed schedule—it remains a top choice for travelers wanting a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery. For those new to Palawan or looking for a fun, well-organized day trip, this tour ticks all the boxes.

If you’re after an authentic, value-packed experience in El Nido, this tour is hard to beat. Pack your swimsuit, grab your camera, and prepare for a day of incredible island sights and genuine tropical tranquility.

FAQ

Is there a minimum age requirement for this tour?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s suitable for families and children, as long as they’re comfortable with boat rides and swimming.

What is included in the tour price?
Boat transfers, a local guide, and lunch are included. Snorkel equipment is free to use, but other rentals like kayaks or aqua shoes cost extra.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, giving plenty of time to explore each stop without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Jarace Grill on Rizal Street in El Nido at 9:00 am and returns to the same spot at the end of the day.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, the El Nido Eco-Tourism Development Fee (400 PHP) must be paid locally. Entrance fees to certain destinations like Big Lagoon are also extra if you choose to visit those spots.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Absolutely. If weather conditions are poor, the tour could be canceled or rescheduled, with options for a full refund or alternate date.

Can I rent snorkeling or kayaking gear?
Yes, gear rentals are available for an additional fee, but snorkeling is included at no extra cost with the provided equipment.

Overall, El Nido’s Tour A offers an authentic, scenic, and affordable way to explore Palawan’s most famous spots. With friendly guides, tasty food, and unforgettable views, it’s an experience worth considering for your next island adventure.