The El Nido Highlights Tour with Island Lunch promises an unforgettable day of adventure and exploration in one of the Philippines’ most stunning natural destinations. Guests will journey to five breathtaking locations, seeing the pristine waters and vibrant marine life that have made this area a world-renowned paradise. From kayaking through the serene Big Lagoon to snorkeling amidst the colorful coral reefs of Secret Beach, this tour offers a comprehensive and well-organized experience that caters to a variety of interests. Of course, the highlight of the day may just be the delicious island-style lunch that refuels and rejuvenates participants as they uncover the hidden gems of this tropical wonderland.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Palawan.

Good To Know

El Nido Highlights Tour W/ Island Lunch - Good To Know

  • This 8-hour tour explores 5 of El Nido’s top natural wonders, including Big Lagoon, Secret Beach, Seven Commando Beach, Helicopter Island, and Hidden Beach.
  • Activities on the tour include kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life.
  • The tour includes a delicious island lunch, providing a refreshing break and enhancing the overall experience.
  • Pickup is provided from locations outside El Nido Town Center, making the tour convenient for visitors.
  • While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, except those with significant mobility issues.

Tour Overview and Itinerary

The El Nido Highlights Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the area’s natural wonders.

Over 8 hours, the tour takes guests to 5 must-see destinations, including the majestic Big Lagoon, the secluded Secret Beach, the serene Seven Commando Beach, the distinctive Helicopter Island, and the tranquil Hidden Beach.

Highlights include kayaking in the crystal-clear waters of the Big Lagoon, swimming through a cave to reach the Secret Beach, and witnessing the vibrant marine life at Helicopter Island.

With an included island lunch, this tour efficiently showcases the best of El Nido’s stunning landscapes and activities, making it an ideal choice for those with limited time in the area.

Big Lagoon Exploration

El Nido Highlights Tour W/ Island Lunch - Big Lagoon Exploration

Majestic limestone cliffs surround the Big Lagoon, creating a breathtaking natural wonder. Paddling through the crystal-clear waters by kayak or boat, travelers can marvel at the lagoon’s serene beauty.

The calm, shallow waters make it an ideal spot for:

  • Swimming and snorkeling to observe the vibrant marine life
  • Photography, capturing the lagoon’s stunning reflections and dramatic rock formations
  • Relaxing on the water, taking in the peaceful ambiance and scenic vistas

The Big Lagoon is a true highlight of the El Nido Highlights Tour, showcasing the region’s exceptional natural landscapes and offering a tranquil respite from the outside world.

Snorkeling at Secret Beach

El Nido Highlights Tour W/ Island Lunch - Snorkeling at Secret Beach

After exploring the serene Big Lagoon, travelers venture to the secluded Secret Beach.

Accessible only by swimming through a cave, this hidden cove is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.

Once inside, visitors are greeted by crystalline waters teeming with vibrant marine life.

Snorkeling here offers the chance to observe a diverse array of tropical fish, corals, and maybe even the occasional sea turtle.

The tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural scenery make this stop a true highlight of the El Nido Highlights Tour.

Guests can spend time swimming, snorkeling, and soaking in the serene ambiance before moving on to the next enchanting destination.

Relaxing at Seven Commando Beach

El Nido Highlights Tour W/ Island Lunch - Relaxing at Seven Commando Beach

Leaving the serene tranquility of Secret Beach behind, the tour next arrives at the picturesque Seven Commando Beach.

This idyllic white-sand locale beckons visitors to unwind and soak up the captivating azure waters. The beach features:

  • A relaxing beach bar where guests can enjoy refreshing beverages and light snacks
  • Opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing along the pristine shoreline
  • Stunning views of the surrounding limestone cliffs and verdant tropical foliage

With its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty, Seven Commando Beach provides a perfect respite from the day’s adventures, allowing travelers to simply bask in the beauty of El Nido’s island paradise.

Discovering Helicopter Island

Continuing the day’s adventures, the tour group next explores the captivating Helicopter Island. Known for its distinct helicopter-like shape, this island boasts cream-colored sand and vibrant marine life.

Visitors can snorkel or swim in the crystal-clear waters, observing the abundant coral and diverse sea creatures. The island’s unique geological formations, carved by wind and waves, offer ample opportunities for photography.

After time spent basking in the island’s natural beauty, the group returns to the boat, energized and eager to discover the final stop on the itinerary – the serene Hidden Beach.

Visiting Hidden Beach

The tour group then makes its way to the final stop of the day – the serene Hidden Beach.

Tucked away among towering rock formations, this tranquil locale offers an abundance of coral and a peaceful respite from the busy day.

Visitors can:

  • Explore the unique geological formations and take in the breathtaking scenery
  • Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters to observe the vibrant marine life
  • Relax on the shore and soak up the serene ambiance of this hidden gem

As the tour draws to a close, the group reflects on the diverse wonders they’ve witnessed throughout the day, leaving with lasting memories of El Nido’s natural beauty.

Inclusions and Exclusions

El Nido Highlights Tour W/ Island Lunch - Inclusions and Exclusions

The El Nido Highlights Tour includes a number of amenities to enhance the overall experience.

Travelers will enjoy a delicious lunch, as well as complimentary soda/pop and bottled water. Pickup is provided from outside the El Nido Town Center, such as Lio or Nacpan.

The tour also covers the necessary environmental and lagoon entrance fees, totaling 400 Philippine pesos per person. However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

While most travelers can participate, it’s not recommended for those with mobility issues. The inclusions provide a seamless and enjoyable day exploring the stunning natural wonders of El Nido.

Traveler Information and Reviews

Travelers interested in participating in the El Nido Highlights Tour should be aware that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

However, service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate. The tour isn’t recommended for individuals with mobility problems.

Previous reviews of the tour have been overwhelmingly positive, with an average rating of 5.0 stars out of 4 reviews. Guests have praised the timely pickup, friendly crew, and overall organization of the experience.

The tour is recommended for those with limited time in El Nido, as it efficiently showcases the best islands and highlights the region.

  • The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.
  • Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate.
  • The tour isn’t recommended for individuals with mobility problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Safety Protocols in Place During the Tour?

The tour operator ensures participants’ safety with life jackets provided, close monitoring by experienced crew, and guidance on proper conduct during activities like swimming and kayaking. Visitors with mobility issues are advised against the tour for their own safety.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Passengers are typically allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour, though the operator provides lunch and beverages as part of the package. Any outside items should be stored safely and responsibly during the excursion.

Is There a Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour provider doesn’t specify a maximum group size. However, the price varies based on group size, so larger groups may cost less per person. Customers should check with the tour company for details on group size and pricing.

Can I Skip Any of the Stops if I Don’t Want to Visit Them?

Travelers can’t skip any of the tour stops, as the itinerary is pre-set. However, they don’t have to participate in each activity if they prefer not to. The guide will accommodate individual preferences within the tour’s schedule.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

The tour provider does offer extended tour durations, allowing guests to spend more time exploring the destinations. However, this would come at an additional cost and would need to be arranged in advance with the tour operator.

Sum Up

The El Nido Highlights Tour with Island Lunch offers an unforgettable day exploring the stunning natural beauty of El Nido. With five breathtaking destinations, guests can engage in activities like kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling while enjoying a delicious island lunch. Seamlessly organized with a friendly crew, this tour is perfect for those seeking a quick yet enriching escape into paradise, as evidenced by its 5.0-star average rating.