El Nido: Highlights Island Hopping Tour, Lagoons & Beaches

Planning a trip to Palawan often means dreaming of crystal-clear waters, limestone cliffs, and secluded beaches. This El Nido Highlights Island Hopping Tour promises just that—a two-day journey through some of the most breathtaking spots in the area. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, detailed reviews, itinerary descriptions, and honest insights paint a pretty compelling picture of what you can expect.

What we love about this tour? First, it offers an excellent balance of iconic sights like Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon with lesser-known but equally stunning spots like Secret Beach and Hidden Beach. Second, the knowledgeable guides seem to make all the difference, adding a layer of local expertise and personal attention. Third, the affordable price point for a two-day, multi-island experience makes it a solid choice for travelers who want quality without breaking the bank.

However, a potential consideration is the group size—with a maximum of 25 people, it’s still a shared experience, which might feel busy during peak times. Also, since the tour ends each day with no accommodation drop-off included, you’ll need to plan your evening logistics accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who crave stunning scenery, authentic local experiences, and a well-organized itinerary. If you’re not a fan of crowds or prefer private trips, this might not be the best fit. But for those wanting to tick off multiple must-see islands in a single trip, it’s a fantastic choice.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive 2-day experience covering major highlights of El Nido’s lagoons and beaches.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Visits to both well-known spots and hidden gems, providing variety and exclusivity.
• Cost-effective for the quality of sights and activities included.
• The tour is suitable for travelers seeking adventure, natural beauty, and cultural insights.
• Be prepared for group sizes up to 25 and plan your evening arrangements independently.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the 2-Day El Nido Island Hopping Tour

What’s Included and How It Works

This joiner tour runs for two days, each packed with visits to five different islands or beaches. The tour begins early in the morning, with pick-up from accommodations in El Nido’s town proper or meeting points outside popular cafes. The boat capacity is capped at 25 people, which strikes a balance between social atmosphere and comfort.

Day 1 features iconic sights like Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Payong Payong Beach, and 7 Commando Beach. On Day 2, the itinerary shifts to Helicopter Island, Matinloc, Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, and Tapiutan Island. Each stop offers a different vibe: some are perfect for snorkeling, others for lounging or exploring.

The Highlights: Why These Spots Matter

Big Lagoon is arguably the most famous—with towering limestone cliffs framing the calm, teal waters—perfect for photos and a paddleboard session. If you’re lucky, entry might be limited, but the guides often have backup plans to visit similar stunning locations. One reviewer notes, “The guides were very attentive, and even when Big Lagoon was full, we still enjoyed other beautiful spots.”

Secret Lagoon and Hidden Beach are true hidden treasures—small, secluded, and often less crowded, ideal for swimming and relaxing away from the crowds. These spots tend to be the highlight for many, offering a sense of discovery.

Shimizu Island stands out for vibrant marine life—it’s popular for snorkeling, and travelers often see colorful fish and coral formations. One reviewer, from France, praised the guide for his attention, saying, “Super guilde Bryan très attentionné avec les clients et une excursion au top.”

Payong Payong Beach and 7 Commando Beach are more laid-back, perfect for beachcombing and enjoying a break between island visits.

Day 2 Offers a Mix of Adventure and Serenity

Helicopter Island captivates with its flat, helicopter-shaped formation—a striking visual that’s perfect for photos. Its calm waters make it ideal for a leisurely swim or a snorkel session.

Matinloc is famous for its abandoned shrine and dramatic cliffs, giving a sense of history and grandeur. Secret Beach and Hidden Beach continue the theme of seclusion and pristine beauty, often praised by travelers for their tranquility.

Tapiutan Island caps off the tour with its stunning vistas and quieter atmosphere. It’s a fitting end to two days of island hopping, giving travelers a chance to reflect on the natural beauty experienced.

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Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

Transportation and Timing: The tour starts early, around 8-9 am, with pickup included within town proper or Corong-Corong. Expect to be on the water until around 4 pm each day, which allows ample time to explore each site without feeling rushed.

What to Bring: Sunscreen, beachwear, cash, towels, extra clothes, and ID are essential. Since plastic bottles and large luggage are not allowed, pack light and eco-friendly.

What Not to Expect: No drop-off at accommodation after the tour—so plan your evening logistics accordingly. Also, entry to some lagoons can be limited, which means you might visit alternative spots if the main sites are crowded.

Booking and Flexibility: The tour offers a reserve & pay later option, providing flexibility in planning. Cancellation is free if made 24 hours in advance, ideal for flexible travelers or if plans change unexpectedly.

Insights from Travelers’ Reviews

The standout feature of this tour appears to be the guides, who are often described as attentive and knowledgeable. One reviewer from France highlights, “Super guilde Bryan très attentionné avec les clients et une excursion au top,” emphasizing the importance of a good guide for a memorable experience.

Another praise-worthy aspect is the stunning views—from limestone cliffs to vibrant reefs—making it clear why this tour remains a favorite. Travelers appreciate the balance of popular sights and hidden beaches, ensuring both the iconic and the secluded are covered.

Some note that the group size feels manageable, and the timing allows for plenty of relaxation. The tour’s affordability compared to private options or multi-day trips adds to its attractiveness, especially for travelers wanting a comprehensive taste of El Nido’s natural wonders.

The Sum Up

This 2-day island hopping tour in El Nido provides a well-rounded experience, combining iconic lagoons, secret beaches, and lively reef spots—all led by knowledgeable guides. Its affordability and thoughtfully curated stops make it a good choice for travelers who want to see the highlights without sacrificing quality. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy lively group trips, beautiful scenery, and authentic local insights.

While it might not be ideal for those seeking complete privacy or very specific schedules, the variety and value make it hard to beat for most visitors. You’ll leave with plenty of photos, memories, and a sense of having truly experienced some of Palawan’s best natural wonders.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour typically begins around 8-9 am, with pickup from your hotel or meeting points outside popular cafes.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s focus on swimming, snorkeling, and beach time generally suits older children, especially if they are comfortable on boats and in the water.

Can I join the tour if I’m staying outside town?
Pickup is available within town proper or Corong-Corong. If staying further out, you should coordinate with the tour provider beforehand.

Are meals included?
The tour description does not specify included meals. Expect to bring cash for snacks or lunch, or inquire directly for meal options.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, beachwear, a towel, cash, a change of clothes, and a passport or ID card are recommended. Plastic bottles or large luggage are not allowed onboard.

Will I get to see the famous lagoons?
Yes, including Big Lagoon, which is a highlight. If entrance is limited, guides often have backup plans to showcase other stunning spots.

How many people are on each boat?
Maximum capacity is 25 persons, providing a comfortable group size for socializing yet avoiding overcrowding.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for changing plans.

In essence, this tour offers a fantastic, value-packed way to explore the natural beauty of El Nido. If soaking up incredible scenery in a lively group sounds appealing, it’s worth considering for your Palawan adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby