Hey Lykkers! Who's craving a tropical escape? Let me guess—you’ve been staring at your screen lately, dreaming of a quiet beach, swaying palm trees, and warm turquoise water that wraps around your feet like a soft hug. Well, you’re not alone.
And if you’re looking for the perfect getaway that’s equal parts adventure and total relaxation, then say hello to El Nido, tucked away in the dreamy northern tip of Palawan, Philippines.
El Nido is not just another pretty beach town. It’s a place where you can explore hidden lagoons, swim through limestone caves, kayak beside dramatic cliffs, and feast on seafood so fresh it almost swims to your plate. Best of all? You don’t need to be a millionaire to enjoy it.
Let’s chat about how to get there, where to go, what to eat, and how much you should budget for the trip—because friends don’t let friends travel unprepared.
How to Get to El Nido, Palawan
Fly Directly to El Nido (LIO Airport)
If you're short on time and love convenience, the quickest and most comfortable option is to fly from Manila straight into LIO Airport in El Nido. You’ll hop on a small plane, and in about an hour, you’ll be stepping off into island paradise—no transfers or long van rides needed.
Travel time: Just around 1 hour from Manila
Ideal for: Travelers who want to skip the long road trip and dive straight into the beach life
6 Must-Visit Places in El Nido You Can’t Miss
1. Big Lagoon State Park
This massive lagoon is El Nido’s most famous attraction—and once you glide into its emerald-green waters in a kayak, you’ll see why. The towering limestone cliffs on all sides make it feel like a secret kingdom carved by nature.
Admission: Approx. $4 per person (cost may vary)
Kayak rental: Around $10 if not included (cost may vary)
2. Small Lagoon
Tucked into a cliffside and accessible only by swimming or paddling through a narrow opening, Small Lagoon is peaceful, almost meditative, with calm waters and echoing stone walls.
Kayak rental: $10 per person (cost may vary)
3. Secret Beach
You’ll swim through a small hole in the limestone wall to reach this tiny, pristine beach hidden from view—no joke, it really feels like stumbling into a secret world.
Shared Tour: Approx. $30 per person (cost may vary)
4. Shimizu Island
Known for its rich marine life and stunning coral formations, this island is a go-to stop for snorkelers looking to swim with colorful fish and enjoy a fresh seafood picnic on the shore.
Estimated Cost : Around $40per person (cost may vary)
5. Matinloc Shrine
A peaceful place that offers one of the best panoramic views in El Nido. You’ll hike up a rocky path near the abandoned shrine for an unforgettable photo op of the surrounding islands and sea.
Entrance fee: Around $2 per person (cost may vary)
6. Nacpan Beach
Think soft golden sand stretching over 2 miles, warm waves perfect for swimming, and small shacks serving fresh grilled seafood—it’s the perfect lazy-day paradise.
Tricycle ride: $8–$10 roundtrip (cost may vary)
Local meal: Around $6–$10 (cost may vary)
Where to Stay in El Nido
Budget Option – Spin Designer Hostel: Clean, modern, and social with free breakfast and dorm-style rooms
Cost: $40–$80 per night (cost may vary)
Mid-Range – Sea Cocoon Hotel: Well-rated with a pool and comfy beds, located close to town
Cost: $65–$80 per night (cost may vary)
Luxury – Pangulasian, El Nido: Private beachfront villas, full-service amenities, and total privacy
Cost: $800+ per night (cost may vary)
What to Eat in El Nido
Local carinderias (food stalls): Get full meals like grilled fish or chicken pancit for just $3–$5 (cost may vary)
Mid-range restaurants (like El Nido Boutique Artcafe or Gusto): Sit-down meals with ocean views run about $8–$15 (cost may vary)
Seafood blowout (at Cadlao Resort or beach grills): Expect $20–$30 for grilled lobster, prawns, and fish (cost may vary)
Must-try treats: Mango shakes, halo-halo (Filipino dessert), and fresh coconut juice
Final Thoughts
El Nido is one of those rare places where nature still feels untouched, where you can explore, relax, and reconnect with beauty all around you. Whether you're drifting through lagoons, hiking to epic views, or sipping fresh juice on the sand, every moment here feels like a dream come true.
And hey—if you're planning a 3-day or 5-day trip, I’d be more than happy to help you map it all out. Just say the word, Lykkers, and I’ll get you ready to pack those bags for paradise.
