El Nido: Big Lagoon Island Hopping with Lunch

Planning a trip to Palawan’s crown jewel, El Nido? If so, chances are you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, towering limestone cliffs, and encounters with colorful marine life. The Big Lagoon Island Hopping Tour from TravelExplr offers just that—a full day of exploring iconic spots, hidden secrets, and relaxing beaches, all wrapped into a well-organized package.

We love that this tour combines stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and a delicious included picnic lunch—all for an affordable price of around $36 per person. It’s perfect for travelers eager to see the highlights of El Nido without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. A small caveat? The tour’s structured itinerary means you’ll spend a bit of time in each location, so if you’re craving more time in one spot, you might find it a little rushed. This experience suits those wanting a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and insider info.

Good To Know

• Affordable value for a full-day guided tour of El Nido’s top spots
• Expert guides provide insight, making each stop more meaningful
• Beautiful scenery and marine life at lagoons, beaches, and snorkeling spots
• Inclusive picnic lunch keeps you energized without extra hassle
• Flexible meeting points and optional private groups enhance convenience
• Limited entry fees and regulations ensure a peaceful, less crowded experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Big Lagoon Island Hopping Tour

Setting the Scene: What to Expect from the Tour

This 6-hour adventure covers some of El Nido’s most famous sights, including the Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, the Secret Lagoon, and Seven Commandos Beach. The tour is operated by TravelExplr Travel and Tours, known for their friendly guides and smooth logistics. You’ll meet at a conveniently located point—either Marber’s or Jarace Grill—with options depending on your hotel location or preference.

The tour includes boat transfers, a licensed guide, and life vests, making the experience accessible and safe for all skill levels. The price covers most essentials, though you’ll need to budget for additional fees like the Php 400 Environmental Fee and Php 200 Big Lagoon Entry Fee, payable on-site.

The Itinerary: From Famous Lagoons to Secluded Spots

Stop 1: Meeting Point
Depending on your choice, you’ll start your day either at Jarace Grill or Marber’s. These are easy-to-find locations within El Nido’s town proper, so no long transfers are necessary before hitting the water.

Stop 2: Big Lagoon
This is the star attraction. Expect stunning limestone cliffs rising out of turquoise waters, perfect for photos or paddling around in a kayak (if you rent one). The guided tour lasts about 2 hours and offers plenty of time to snorkel or simply soak up the views. Multiple reviewers mention the peaceful atmosphere, which makes it a memorable highlight. One guest shared, “The scenery is even more incredible in real life, and the guide gave us interesting details about the formations.”

Stop 3: Shimizu Island
Next up is a snorkeler’s paradise with vibrant coral reefs and marine life. You’ll find colorful fish and a lively underwater environment. The 2-hour stop gives ample opportunity to explore the underwater beauty, often described as a “must-see” for snorkelers.

Stop 4: Secret Lagoon
Hidden behind towering limestone cliffs, this calm lagoon feels like discovering a secret treasure. You’ll pass through a small opening to reach this tranquil spot, where you can relax and take photos. One reviewer calls it a “serene escape,” emphasizing its peaceful ambiance.

Stop 5: Seven Commandos Beach
The final stop is a beautiful stretch of powdery white sand, lined with coconut trees. Here, the tour provides a picnic lunch—a highlight for many—so you can unwind, swim, or even toss a volleyball. Reviewers often mention the delicious food and the relaxing atmosphere.

Stop 6: Return and Drop-off
The tour concludes in the same vicinity where it started, with options to be dropped at Marber’s or Jarace Grill.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Guides with Local Knowledge
Guests consistently praise the guides for their friendliness and expertise, which enriches the experience. From explaining the geology of the cliffs to pointing out hidden marine creatures, guides add a layer of depth that makes these stops more than just sightseeing.

Stunning Scenery & Marine Life
The visuals are what you come for—towering limestone formations, calm lagoons, and colorful coral reefs. Many reviewers mention how the photos don’t do justice to the actual beauty, especially at Big Lagoon and Shimizu Island.

Value-Focused Pricing
For just $36, the tour offers more than enough value. The inclusion of a picnic lunch, boat transfers, and a knowledgeable guide makes the experience accessible for budget travelers while maintaining quality.

Flexible and Convenient
Meeting points are centrally located, and private groups are available, making it adaptable for different travel styles. The tour’s wait-and-see approach with entry fees ensures you’re not overpaying, and you can choose to skip certain spots if you prefer.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Considerations

Timing & Duration
The tour lasts roughly six hours, with each stop allocated about two hours, which strikes a balance between seeing many spots and not feeling rushed. Check availability for starting times, as they may vary.

Transportation & Accessibility
Boat transfers are included, but you’ll need to meet at the designated points in town—no long transfers from hotels are specified, making it a good choice for those based centrally.

What to Bring

• Swimwear and a change of clothes are essential, especially since you’ll be swimming or snorkeling.
• Don’t forget sunscreen, a towel, cash for additional fees, and your ID or passport to pay the environmental fees.

Additional Fees & Tips
The Php 400 environmental fee and Php 200 lagoon entry fee are payable on-site. It’s worth bringing cash to avoid delays. You might also want to rent your own gear like water shoes or snorkel masks if you prefer a more personalized experience.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One guest mentioned, “The guide made the entire day really enjoyable with their local stories and tips,” highlighting the importance of a knowledgeable guide. Another said, “The scenery exceeded my expectations, especially at Big Lagoon,” emphasizing how stunning these natural features truly are.

Some reviewers noted that the entry to Big Lagoon can be limited, so visiting early or during less busy times might improve your chances of getting in, especially during peak season.

Who Should Book This Tour?

Adventure seekers who want a comprehensive look at El Nido’s most famous attractions will find this tour ideal. It’s also perfect for those on a budget, as the overall value is high considering everything included.

Families will appreciate the safe, guided environment and the variety of stops suitable for all ages. Couples or solo travelers who prefer a relaxed but well-organized day will also enjoy the mix of scenic stops, snorkeling, and beach time.

Those interested in photography will love the scenery, while marine life enthusiasts will appreciate the snorkel opportunities. If you’re after an in-depth, hassle-free experience that balances sightseeing and relaxation, this tour hits the right notes.

Final Thoughts

The El Nido Big Lagoon Island Hopping Tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed experience that captures the essence of Palawan’s natural beauty. It combines breathtaking landscapes, marine adventures, and local insights, making it an accessible way to see some of the most iconic spots around El Nido without the hassle of planning each detail yourself.

While it does follow a set schedule, the guides’ friendliness and knowledge help make each moment engaging and memorable. The inclusion of a picnic lunch and the affordability of around $36 make it a compelling choice for travelers of all budgets.

If you’re looking to tick off the top sights, enjoy some snorkeling, and relax on pristine beaches, this tour could be a highlight of your Palawan trip. Its balance of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and practical organization makes it highly recommended.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
It includes boat transfers, a licensed tour guide, life vests, and a picnic lunch. You’ll also pay for entry fees to spots like Big Lagoon and the Environmental Fee separately on-site.

Where does the tour start and end?
You can meet at either Marber’s or Jarace Grill in El Nido. The tour ends back at your starting point, making it convenient.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, cash for extra fees, and your ID or passport to pay the environmental and lagoon entry fees.

Are there private group options?
Yes, private groups are available, offering more flexibility and privacy.

Is there a time limit at each stop?
Yes, each main destination is allocated about two hours, enough for relaxing, snorkeling, or taking photos.

What happens if entry to Big Lagoon is full?
Tour operators will redirect you to alternative spots with similar scenic appeal, ensuring you still enjoy a memorable day.

In short, this tour provides a fantastic, budget-friendly way to see El Nido’s highlights, with expert guides, breathtaking views, and a relaxed pace. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another visit, it’s a solid choice to experience the best of Palawan’s natural wonders.

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