El Nido Island Tour A

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, towering limestone formations, and picture-perfect beaches, then the El Nido Island Tour A promises to deliver just that. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, a detailed look at what it offers suggests it could be a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of El Nido without breaking the bank.

What immediately stands out is the affordable price of just $22 per person, making it accessible for many travelers who want to explore without overspending. The tour’s eight-hour duration offers a good balance—long enough to cover several must-see spots, but not so lengthy that it becomes exhausting. Plus, with five destinations included, you’ll get a taste of everything from lagoons to beaches and snorkeling spots.

Three aspects we genuinely like are the well-organized itinerary, the inclusion of a picnic lunch, and the availability of experienced guides. However, one potential consideration is the variable weather, which may affect the water’s color and overall experience—something worth keeping in mind. This tour is suited for those who love nature, water activities, and authentic island life, especially if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive taste of El Nido’s coastal wonders.

Good To Know

• Affordable Price: At $22, this tour offers good value for a full day exploring multiple islands and beaches.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Five diverse destinations packed into one day—lagoon, beaches, snorkeling, and swimming.
• Expert Guides: The tour includes a licensed guide, ensuring safety and local insights.
• Inclusive Lunch: A picnic provided on one of the islands adds convenience and a chance to relax.
• Flexible Schedule: Starts around 9-10 am with an end time between 3-5 pm, fitting into a typical day.
• Additional Fees: Lagoon and environmental fees are extra, which adds to the overall cost but is standard for these tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring El Nido Island Tour A: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour is designed to show you the highlights of El Nido’s famous coastal and lagoon scenery without the hassle of organizing multiple trips or transportation. Starting at the Cliffside Travel and Tours booking office, you’ll meet your guide before heading out on a boat that takes you from El Nido town beach to the first stop. The boat ride typically lasts about 20-30 minutes, giving you a quick but scenic journey across the waters.

The main feature of this tour is the five destinations it covers, each offering unique sights and activities. You’ll visit Big Lagoon, where the calm waters and towering limestone cliffs create a postcard-perfect scene. The guided tour here includes a safety briefing and a hop-on hop-off style sightseeing experience — ideal for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Next, you’ll stop at Shimizu Island, renowned for its beautiful beaches and snorkeling opportunities. The island is perfect for relaxing on the white sands or exploring underwater life with the snorkeling masks available for rent on-site. Reviewers mention that the well-maintained boat and friendly staff make the journey enjoyable, even if the weather isn’t perfect.

The Secret Lagoon offers a more secluded feel. It’s a small, hidden water inlet that’s great for swimming and taking photos away from the crowds. Be aware that you’ll need to pay a lagoon fee of 200 pesos, which isn’t included in the original price but is a standard charge here.

The tour also includes a stop at Seven Commandos Beach, a lovely stretch of sand perfect for sunbathing, volleyball, or just unwinding after a busy morning of sightseeing. The picnic lunch is served here, giving you a welcome break to stretch, eat, and enjoy the surroundings.

Finally, the tour concludes back at El Nido Beach around mid-afternoon, allowing ample time to explore the town afterward or relax at your accommodation.

The Experience on the Water: Snorkeling, Swimming, and Sunbathing

One of the best parts of this tour is the chance to engage with the water. Guests can snorkel at Shimizu Island or swim at the beaches, with snorkel masks available for rent at the beach. The review from John notes that the boat was “spacious and well-maintained,” making the ride comfortable and smooth.

Many guests appreciate the relaxed pace, with about 40-50 minutes at each stop—ample time to explore, take photos, or just soak up the scenery. The lunch on the boat is described as simple but sufficient, offering a practical meal without fuss.

The tour guide is always on hand to provide safety instructions and help with snorkeling or swimming, which is reassuring especially for travelers unfamiliar with water activities.

The Logistics: Timing, Group Size, and Fees

The meeting point is conveniently located beside El Nido Cliffside Cottages, with a recommended arrival time before 8:30 am. The boat departs between 9:00 and 10:00 am, depending on the coast guard clearance—a slight variation that’s typical and manageable.

The group size is not specified explicitly but can be inferred as a small to medium group, allowing for a more intimate experience. This is important because it affects how crowded the stops might feel, especially at popular sites like Big Lagoon and Seven Commandos Beach.

Regarding costs, the $22 ticket covers the boat, guide, snorkeling masks, life vests, and picnic lunch. However, additional fees include 200 pesos for lagoon entry and 400 pesos environmental fee—both payable on-site. Kayak rentals are available at the lagoon for around 300 pesos per hour, giving you the option to add more activity.

Honest Insights from Reviewers: What to Expect

Based on the feedback, the overall vibe is positive, especially regarding the well-maintained boat and helpful staff. One reviewer appreciated the “friendly and helpful personnel,” which can make a big difference in ensuring a smooth day.

However, weather can influence the experience. As one guest pointed out, “it was a bit cloudy, so the water wasn’t as blue as I expected,” which can affect the postcard-worthy views that many travelers seek. Still, the stunning limestone cliffs and varied scenery make up for less-than-perfect weather.

The simple lunch received mixed comments—some found it enough to refuel for the afternoon, while others might prefer to bring extra snacks or drinks. The fact that the tour is flexible and guided ensures that you won’t feel lost or overwhelmed, even if you’re new to island-hopping.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Island Tour A suits travelers who want an affordable, well-organized day exploring El Nido’s most iconic locations. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but want to see a variety of beaches and lagoons. Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those interested in water activities will find plenty to enjoy here.

But keep in mind that weather conditions can impact the experience, especially the water’s color and visibility. So, if you’re planning around your weather window, it’s worth checking the forecast.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

El Nido Island Tour A offers a solid balance of affordability, scenic variety, and local guidance, making it a worthwhile choice for many travelers. The inclusion of five destinations, a picnic lunch, and the opportunity to snorkel and relax on pristine beaches provides excellent value.

While it’s not a luxury experience, the focus on natural beauty and straightforward logistics appeals to those who want to enjoy El Nido’s famous sights without fuss. It’s perfect for budget-conscious explorers, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to tick off multiple highlights in one day.

The key to making the most of this tour is to go into it with flexible expectations—weather can influence the scene, and crowds may appear at popular stops—but the stunning limestone cliffs, clear waters, and charming beaches will leave many with unforgettable memories.

FAQs about El Nido Island Tour A

What is the starting point for this tour?
You meet your guide at the Cliffside Travel and Tours booking office beside El Nido Cliffside Cottages before departure.

What time does the tour usually start and end?
The boat departs around 9:00-10:00 am and returns between 3:00 and 5:00 pm, giving you a full day of island exploring.

Are there additional costs besides the $22 ticket?
Yes, lagoon fees (200 pesos) and environmental fees (400 pesos) are payable on-site. Kayak rentals and snorkeling masks are extra if you choose to rent.

Is the tour suitable for children or less mobile travelers?
While not explicitly stated, the tour involves boat rides and some walking on beaches, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with water-based activities and moderate walking.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring sun protection, extra water, a towel, and possibly snacks. Snorkel masks are available for rent, but you might prefer to bring your own.

Can I customize the stops or activities?
The itinerary is fixed, but optional activities like kayaking or snorkeling can be added at certain stops, depending on availability.

How crowded does it get?
The group size isn’t specified, but reviews suggest it’s a manageable number, though popular stops may see other boats and travelers.

Is this tour good in bad weather?
Weather can affect the water’s clarity and the overall scenery. Check the forecast, as overcast days might limit the visual impact but still offer a great experience.

In essence, if you’re seeking a budget-friendly, well-organized way to see El Nido’s top sights with friendly guides and a relaxed schedule, Island Tour A is a dependable choice. Expect stunning limestone formations, inviting beaches, and the chance to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters—all wrapped up in a day packed with natural beauty.

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