El Nido Island Tour A

If you’re planning a trip to the Philippines, El Nido’s breathtaking landscapes often top the list of must-see destinations. While many travelers rely on local recommendations or guidebooks, booking a reputable island hopping tour can truly enhance your experience. We’ve looked into El Nido Island Tour A, operated by Cliffside Travel and Tours, and it offers a promising mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and fun activities — all for an accessible price.

What excites us about this tour? First, the stunning limestone formations and crystal-clear waters promise picture-perfect moments. Second, the variety of stops, from lagoons to beaches, ensures you get a well-rounded taste of what El Nido offers. Third, the affordable price point of just $22 per person makes this feel like excellent value—especially considering the inclusions. The only potential downside? The tour’s timing is quite weather-dependent, which can affect visibility and overall experience.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a full day of exploration, enjoy water activities like snorkeling and swimming, and prefer a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on iconic sights. Families, solo travelers, or groups looking for a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation will likely find it a great fit.

Good To Know

• Affordable price with all essential inclusions like lunch, guide, and safety gear
• Five must-see destinations packed into one day, including lagoons, beaches, and secret spots
• Flexible timing with pick-up and drop-off within El Nido town
• Authentic experience with licensed guides and local operation
• Activities include snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing, and a picnic lunch
• Weather can impact visibility and overall scenery, so plan accordingly

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

El Nido Island Tour A is designed to showcase the area’s most iconic sights in a single day. Starting from the Cliffside Travel and Tours booking office, you’ll meet your guide and then board a boat that takes you out into the turquoise waters. The boat is noted for being spacious and well-maintained, according to reviews, which makes for a comfortable ride despite the often crowded nature of popular tours.

Transportation and Timing

The transportation is straightforward: a pick-up within El Nido town (if you’re staying locally) and a boat ride that lasts roughly 20-30 minutes to the first stop. The entire tour runs approximately 8 hours, with the itinerary typically beginning around 9:00 or 10:00 am and wrapping up between 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm. This schedule offers plenty of time for sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beaches without feeling rushed.

The Stops and Their Highlights

Big Lagoon

This is the tour’s first major stop and a highlight for many. The lagoon’s towering limestone cliffs and calm, clear water make it perfect for photos and a quick swim. Visitors often comment on the beauty of the scenery — “Mooie plekken bezocht,” as a reviewer put it, meaning “beautiful places visited.” You’ll have about 40-50 minutes here, which is enough time for a guided tour and some free time for photos or a short swim. You can also rent a kayak for an extra 300 pesos per hour, which many travelers find worthwhile for exploring the lagoon at your own pace.

Shimizu Island

Next, the boat pulls up at Shimizu Island, where hopping off to snorkel or relax on the beach is common. The island’s name often comes up in reviews as a favorite spot for its easy access to coral reefs and marine life. The tour includes a hop-on, hop-off stop, so you can spend as much or as little time as you like here.

Secret Lagoon

Perhaps the most intriguing stop is the Secret Lagoon, a hidden cove tucked away behind limestone walls. To access it, you typically enter through a small opening, making it feel like a secret treasure. This spot is particularly appreciated for its exclusivity and calm waters, ideal for swimming and relaxing. As one reviewer noted, “Simpele lunch op de boot,” meaning a simple lunch served on the boat, including at this location.

Payong-Payong Beach

This beach offers a laid-back vibe, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or even a game of volleyball on the sand. The reviews highlight the opportunity to enjoy a peaceful break away from crowded spots, with plenty of space for relaxation.

7 Commandos Beach

The last stop is a classic—seven wide, sandy beaches where you can stretch your legs, play volleyball, or just enjoy the views. It’s a popular spot to wind down, and the shallow waters make it suitable for all ages.

Activities and Amenities

Throughout the day, you’ll find opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and soaking up the sun. Snorkel masks are available for rent on the beach, and life vests are provided as part of the tour. The picnic lunch included is simple but adequate, offering a break from the water activities and a chance to recharge.

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The Guide and Service

The tour is led by a licensed guide who speaks English and Tagalog, ensuring clear communication and assistance if needed. Several reviews mention the friendly, helpful staff, which adds to a smooth experience. The tour operator prides itself on good service, and it shows in the well-maintained boat and organized itinerary.

Costs and Extras

At $22 per person, this tour offers notable value, especially considering the boat, guide, snorkeling gear, and lunch are included. Additional fees that visitors should prepare for include a 200 pesos lagoon fee and a 400 pesos environmental fee, payable at the booking office. If you’re interested in kayaking or renting snorkeling masks, these are available at the beaches at extra cost (kayaking in Big Lagoon costs about 300 pesos per hour).

Weather and Scenery

Some reviews mention that weather can influence the scenery — “Jammer dat het weer minder was, waardoor de zee niet blauw was,” meaning “pity the weather was worse, so the sea wasn’t as blue.” This is an important consideration; a cloudy or rainy day can diminish the visual impact, though the lagoons and beaches are still worth visiting.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This island hopping tour suits travelers who want a cost-effective, comprehensive introduction to El Nido’s top sites. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want a taste of limestone cliffs, lagoons, and beaches. Families, solo travelers, and groups looking for a balanced day of adventure and relaxation will find it appealing. The additional activities like snorkeling and kayaking add more fun, especially for active travelers.

Final Thoughts

El Nido Island Tour A offers a solid value for those eager to see the area’s most iconic sights without breaking the bank. The combination of well-chosen stops, friendly guides, and opportunities for water activities makes it a practical choice for a memorable day. While weather can influence the experience, the natural beauty of the lagoons, limestone cliffs, and beaches remains undeniable.

For travelers seeking an authentic, hassle-free way to explore El Nido’s stunning coastlines, this tour provides a reliable, enjoyable experience. Its straightforward itinerary, friendly staff, and inclusive pricing make it a smart pick for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes five island destinations, a licensed tour guide, life vests, boat permits, and a picnic lunch. Free pick-up within El Nido town is also available.

Are there additional fees to consider?
Yes, there’s a 200 pesos lagoon fee and a 400 pesos environmental fee payable at the booking office. Extra activities like kayak rentals and snorkeling masks are also at additional costs.

What is the starting time of the tour?
Tours generally start between 9:00 and 10:00 am, depending on the boat dispatch schedule and Coast Guard clearance.

Where do I meet the tour guide?
Meet at the Cliffside Travel and Tours booking office beside El Nido Cliffside Cottages before 8:30 am. The boat will depart from El Nido town beach.

How long does the tour last?
The whole experience spans about 8 hours, ending around late afternoon, around 3 pm to 5 pm.

Can I do activities like snorkeling or kayaking?
Yes, snorkeling is included, and snorkeling masks are available for rent on the beach. Kayak rentals are available at Big Lagoon for 300 pesos per hour.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the calm waters at some stops and the gentle pace make it suitable for families. Just keep in mind the duration and activities involved.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, a waterproof camera, some cash for extras, and maybe a hat or cover-up for sun protection.

How is the weather impact?
Cloudy or rainy weather can limit visibility and reduce the vibrant blue of the water, but the scenic limestone formations and lagoons are still worth visiting.

Would you recommend this tour?
Absolutely, especially if you’re after a budget-friendly way to see El Nido’s most famous sights with friendly guides and a relaxed atmosphere.

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