El Nido: Island Hopping TOUR A with Lunch, Transfer & EDTF

Exploring El Nido’s Island Hopping Tour A: A Detailed Review

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, and vibrant marine life, then El Nido’s Tour A promises to deliver just that. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of a memorable day spent soaking up some of Palawan’s most iconic scenery. It’s a top pick for travelers seeking a balance of stunning landscape, easygoing activities, and good value—all packed into an 8-hour adventure.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love the variety of stops—from majestic lagoons to secret beaches and colorful reefs. Second, the inclusive price around $56 per person covers most essentials, making it an accessible way to explore. Third, the family-friendly nature of the itinerary means everyone from kids to seniors can enjoy the experience comfortably.

However, a potential consideration is the limited time at each stop—this means you’ll want to keep your camera ready and be prepared for a busy, but well-organized day. Given the pace and inclusions, this tour suits those wanting a comprehensive taste of El Nido without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

For travelers eager to see the best of Palawan’s coastlines and marine environments, this island-hopping trip offers a practical, scenic, and fun-filled experience.

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Good To Know

• Stunning Natural Landscapes: Features iconic limestone formations, lagoons, and beaches.
• Inclusive Price: At $56, most activities, transfers, and lunch are covered, offering excellent value.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with a focus on safety and comfort.
• Diverse Stops: From the Big Lagoon to secret caves and coral reefs, each location offers something special.
• Snorkeling & Marine Life: Potential encounters with sea turtles and vibrant fish.
• Limited Activity Options: No sports or adventurous pursuits—more about relaxation and scenic exploration.

What to Expect from El Nido Tour A

This tour is designed to bring you face-to-face with some of the most jaw-dropping sights in the Bacuit Bay area. The day kicks off with a convenient pickup within El Nido, making your morning smooth and hassle-free. Once aboard the boat, the journey into the bay begins, with each stop offering a new landscape or activity.

Big Lagoon: The Star of the Show

Our first major stop is the Big Lagoon on Miniloc Island. Known for its towering limestone cliffs and vivid blue waters, it’s the kind of landscape that looks almost surreal. We loved how easily you could paddle around in a kayak or simply float while taking in the views. The clarity of the water makes snorkeling an appealing option here, especially for spotting colorful fish.

The Secret Lagoon: Hidden but Worth the Effort

Next, the Secret Lagoon offers a sense of discovery. This natural pool is hidden behind limestone cliffs, accessible via a rocky cave-like passage. During high tide, you might need to duck your head a bit, but low tide allows for wading into this tranquil spot. The enclosed nature of the lagoon makes it one of the more intimate stops, perfect for a quick swim or a peaceful rest.

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Payong Payong Beach: A Relaxing Picnic Spot

Payong Payong Beach provides a peaceful break with its pristine sand and shady trees. The shallow, clear waters make for safe swimming and snorkeling, and the calm environment is perfect for a laid-back lunch. While there are no water sports available here, the scenic backdrop and the chance to unwind are highly valued by visitors.

Shimizu Island: Lunch and Marine Adventure

Midday, the group heads to Shimizu Island, renowned for its soft white sands and vibrant coral reefs. The island’s tranquility makes it an ideal lunch spot, where a freshly prepared meal is served. Post-lunch, many guests choose to snorkel or simply relax on the beach. The legend of the island’s name adds a bit of local charm to the visit, and the cool shade under limestone cliffs helps beat the afternoon heat.

Seven Commandos Beach: End on a High Note

The final stop is Seven Commandos Beach, which features a long stretch of white sand lined with coconut trees and dramatic limestone formations. It’s a lovely place to linger, soak up the sun, or take a leisurely walk along the shoreline. Access is only by boat, which adds to its secluded appeal.

The Practical Side: Comfort, Cost, and Inclusions

Transportation is straightforward with roundtrip motorized boat rides from El Nido, ensuring you spend less time on logistics and more on enjoying the scenery. The tour includes hotel pick-up within El Nido town proper, a lunch featuring local flavors, water, lagoon and environment fees, and a guide to enhance your experience.

The price point of $56 per person makes this tour particularly appealing when you consider most costs are included—no hidden fees for entry or gear. However, note that if your hotel isn’t within El Nido town proper or is in the Lio Nampacan Beach area, there is an additional charge (around P1000) paid directly on site for roundtrip transfer.

Snorkeling gear, such as masks and fins, isn’t included but can be rented on-site if desired. This is worth noting if you’re keen to explore underwater scenes more thoroughly, especially since marine life encounters, like sea turtles, are possible.

Timing & Group Size

Most tours start early in the morning—check availability for specific start times—and last around 8 hours. Group sizes tend to be moderate, offering a relaxed atmosphere, but it’s always best to confirm if you prefer a smaller or larger group.

The Experience for Different Types of Travelers

This tour is well-suited for families, thanks to its relaxed pace and accessible stops. Solo travelers will enjoy the sociable environment, and couples can indulge in the scenic beauty at their leisure. However, those seeking adventure sports or fast-paced activities might find it a bit mellow, as the focus is more on scenery and relaxation.

The fully accessible nature makes it a good choice for seniors or travelers with mobility considerations, provided they’re comfortable with boat rides and walking through rocky areas (like the Secret Lagoon).

Final Thoughts: Who Will Treasure This Tour?

This Island Hopping Tour A in El Nido offers a wonderful snapshot of Palawan’s most iconic sights at a reasonable price point. The combination of stunning scenery, relaxing stops, and snorkeling opportunities makes it perfect for those wanting to experience the beauty of the islands without the hassle of planning every detail.

It truly shines for travelers looking to enjoy the best scenic vistas and calm, family-friendly activities. The inclusion of a delicious lunch and all the essential fees makes for a smooth, stress-free day. If you’re after a well-rounded, value-packed tour that highlights the natural wonders of El Nido, this is a choice worth considering.

While it’s not the most adrenaline-filled experience, the quality of the stops and the scenery more than compensate. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a reliable, enjoyable introduction to Palawan’s incredible coastline.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes roundtrip transfer within El Nido town proper. For hotels outside this area, an additional fee applies.

What is the cost of the tour?
The tour costs approximately $56 per person, which covers most of the essentials, including lunch, boat rides, lagoon fees, and guiding.

How long does the tour last?
Expect around 8 hours of sightseeing, with check-in and pickup times varying depending on availability.

Are snorkeling masks and fins included?
No, they are not included but can be rented separately on-site if desired.

Is the tour suitable for children and seniors?
Yes, it is designed to be family-friendly and accessible, with safety as a priority. However, some rocky or cave areas may require caution.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), swimwear, towel, water, reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, and snorkeling gear if you have your own.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour good value for money?
Absolutely. With most costs included and multiple scenic stops, it offers a comprehensive experience at a competitive price.

To sum it up, El Nido’s Tour A mixes stunning natural beauty with comfort and practicality. It’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors seeking a well-organized, scenic adventure that delivers on value and memorable moments. Whether you’re into photography, relaxing on a beach, or snorkeling among vibrant corals, this tour will leave you with plenty of stories—and plenty of photos—to show for it.

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