El Nido Island Tour D

El Nido Island Tour D: A Practical Look at a Budget-Friendly Adventure

El Nido is often called the jewel of Palawan, famous for its dramatic limestone formations and pristine beaches. Tourists flock to this part of the Philippines to see turquoise lagoons, hidden beaches, and vibrant marine life. One popular way to experience it is through island hopping tours, and Tour D, operated by Cliffside Travel and Tours, provides a straightforward, budget-friendly option.

We’ve compiled what you need to know about this tour, highlighting what makes it appealing and what you should keep in mind. Expect scenic views, a variety of swim and snorkel spots, and a relaxed pace—perfect for those who want a taste of El Nido’s natural charms without breaking the bank. A potential downside is that some guests have found the boat arrangements less comfortable compared to higher-end options, but the overall value and authentic experience shine through.

This tour suits travelers looking for an affordable, guided day out that covers several key spots in El Nido—especially if you want to keep things simple and enjoy the natural beauty. It’s ideal for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a full day of beach and lagoon hopping with some snorkeling and sunbathing thrown in.

Good To Know

• Affordable Price: At $22 per person, you get access to five beautiful destinations.
• Diverse Destinations: Includes Small Lagoon, Cadlao Lagoon, Paradise Beach, Bukal Beach, and Pasandigan Beach.
• Relaxed Schedule: Approx. 8-hour tour with about 40-50 mins at each stop.
• Includes Lunch and Equipment: Picnic lunch provided, plus life vests, snorkeling masks, and a guide.
• Authentic Experience: Smaller crowds than other tours, with fewer travelers visiting these spots.
• Potential Drawbacks: Some guests report boat comfort issues and shorter meals than other tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Overview of El Nido Island Tour D

El Nido’s spectacular limestone cliffs and pristine beaches are a magnet for travelers, and a guided tour like this makes it easy to see several highlights in one day. The tour operates through Cliffside Travel and Tours, a licensed agency, which means you get a degree of professionalism and safety. The entire experience is designed to be straightforward: meet early in the town, hop on a boat, and enjoy multiple stops with roughly 40-50 minutes at each location.

The overall duration is about 8 hours, perfect for those who want a full day of adventure without feeling rushed. The tour begins at the Cliffside Travel and Tours booking office, just beside El Nido Cliffside Cottages, where you’ll meet your guide before 8:30 am. The boat departs between 9:00 and 10:00 am, depending on clearance from the Coast Guard and other logistical factors.

The Itinerary: What You Will See and Do

Stop 1: Small Lagoon
Your first stop will be Small Lagoon, a favorite for its aquamarine waters and the chance to rent a kayak for around 300 pesos per hour. You’ll have about 40-50 minutes here, enough to paddle around or just relax on the beach. Reviewers mention that this lagoon is truly beautiful, with some noting the kayak rental adds extra fun. However, one guest suggested kayaking could be included in the tour price for better value, instead of additional charges.

Stop 2: Cadlao Lagoon
Next, you’ll visit Cadlao Lagoon, known for its crystal-clear waters and towering limestone backdrop. It’s an ideal spot for swimming or snorkeling. The guide provides life vests and snorkeling masks, making it easy to explore marine life just below the surface. From reviews, guides are knowledgeable and helpful, pointing out interesting spots and ensuring everyone feels comfortable.

Stop 3: Paradise Beach
After the lagoons, expect a stop at Paradise Beach. Here, you can sunbathe, play volleyball, or just enjoy the soft white sand. Some reviews mention the meal here—picnic lunches are served at one of the stops, providing a simple but satisfying break. The beach is a peaceful place to unwind away from overly crowded tourist spots.

Stop 4: Bukal Beach
The tour continues to Bukal Beach, known for its scenic views and tranquility. It’s a good spot for a quick swim or relaxing walk along the shore. Reviews note that the beaches visited are less crowded than other tour options, making for a more authentic and relaxed experience.

Stop 5: Pasandigan Beach
The final stop is Pasandigan Beach, a quiet, less-visited spot where you can enjoy some final sunbathing or swimming. The tour usually wraps up around 3-5 pm, with the boat returning to El Nido town beach.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price covers life vests, a guided boat ride, a permit for the boat, and a picnic lunch. Plus, free hotel pickup within El Nido town is included, which adds convenience.

However, there are extra costs to keep in mind:

• An environmental fee of 400 pesos and a lagoon fee of 200 pesos, payable at the booking office before the tour.
• Optional kayak rentals (available only at Small Lagoon) at 300 pesos per hour.
• Snorkeling masks can be rented during departure, but they are not included in the price.

Guests should budget extra for these, which aren’t included upfront. The additional costs are common for tours in the Philippines but worth noting so you don’t get surprised.

The Reality from Past Travelers

While most reviews are positive, some guests have pointed out issues. One reviewer mentioned dissatisfaction with the boat’s comfort, noting that they weren’t allowed to sit on the boat’s benches, and described the boat as small and less pleasant. They also observed that waiting times at the meeting point could be quite long, and the meal served was less substantial than on other tours.

Another guest appreciated how fewer travelers visit this tour, making it feel more exclusive and peaceful compared to the busier Tour A or C options. They also noted the beauty of the lagoons and beaches as still being just as stunning.

A third reviewer suggested that adding kayaking to the tour could improve the experience, as currently, it’s an optional extra and not included in the price. They preferred paying a little more upfront rather than being asked for additional money at each lagoon.

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Transportation and Timing

Transportation is straightforward: you meet at the Cliffside Travel and Tours booking office before 8:30 am, and the boat departs within an hour afterward. The boat ride to the first destination takes about 20-30 minutes, so patience is key. The schedule aims to maximize daylight hours, with the tour wrapping up in the late afternoon.

This setup is perfect for early risers and those wanting a full day of activity, but it’s worth arriving on time, as delays can happen. The guide is licensed and speaks both English and Tagalog, ensuring clear explanations and assistance throughout the day.

Overall Value and Who It’s For

At $22, this tour offers a straightforward way to explore some of El Nido’s most photogenic spots without splurging. It’s a good choice for budget-conscious travelers, groups seeking a relaxed pace, or anyone new to island hopping who wants a guided experience without the fuss of planning every detail.

While the boat comfort and meal size might not match premium tours, the inclusion of five destinations, snorkeling gear, and a picnic lunch keeps the value high. Plus, the smaller crowds at these spots mean you’re more likely to enjoy a peaceful day, away from the hustle of more popular tours.

For those valuing authentic sights and a laid-back vibe, Tour D hits the right notes. If you’re okay with some minor inconveniences, this tour can deliver a memorable, picturesque day in El Nido.

The Sum Up

El Nido Island Tour D by Cliffside Travel and Tours is a solid choice for travelers wanting an affordable and authentic experience. It hits the sweet spot between price and seeing some of Palawan’s most stunning natural attractions. With knowledgeable guides and fewer crowds at the visited sites, you’ll find a relaxed, scenic adventure that captures the essence of El Nido’s beauty.

This tour is best suited for budget travelers, first-timers, or those who prioritize natural scenery over luxury boat comfort. It’s also a good pick for families or small groups seeking a straightforward, guided day out. While the boat may not be as plush as some higher-end options, the value for money and genuine, less-crowded locations make it worth considering.

Just remember to bring sun protection, some extra cash for fees, and a flexible attitude. Whether you’re snorkelling, lounging on the beach, or capturing photos of limestone cliffs, Tour D offers a memorable slice of Palawan’s natural wonders without a hefty price tag.

FAQs

What is the starting point for the tour?
You meet at the Cliffside Travel and Tours booking office beside El Nido Cliffside Cottages before 8:30 am.

When does the boat leave?
The boat departs between 9:00 and 10:00 am, depending on Coast Guard clearance and logistics.

What destinations are included?
The tour includes five stops: Small Lagoon, Cadlao Lagoon, Paradise Beach, Bukal Beach, and Pasandigan Beach.

Are meals included?
Yes, a picnic lunch is provided at one of the stops, giving you a chance to relax and refuel.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, expect to pay 400 pesos environmental fee and 200 pesos lagoon fee at the booking office. Kayak rental and snorkeling masks are optional extras.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
The tour involves swimming and snorkeling, so it’s best suited for those comfortable in the water. Life vests are provided, and guides help ensure safety.

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