Guide 01
Best time to visit El Nido
Weather, crowds and prices, month by month.
El Nido has two main seasons. The dry season runs from about November or December to May, and the rainy season from about June to October.
December to February: cool and busy
Pleasant temperatures and mostly dry days. This is peak season, especially around Christmas and New Year, so book tours and rooms early. Some days can be windy, and routes may be adjusted.
March to May: hot, calm and sunny
The calmest seas and clearest water of the year, perfect for island hopping and snorkeling. Holy Week and the summer school break are very busy, so reserve ahead.
June to October: green season
Expect afternoon rain and some stormy days. Tours can be cancelled when the Coast Guard suspends sea travel, so keep a spare day in your plan. In return you get fewer crowds and lower prices.
Local tips
- Island hopping tours start in the morning, when the sea is usually calmer.
- Leave one free day in your itinerary in case a tour is cancelled because of the weather.
- Bring cash for the environmental fee and any entrance fees, which are not included in tour rates.
Guide 02
3 days in El Nido: a simple itinerary
The best of the islands and the beaches, without rushing.
Three days is enough to see El Nido's famous lagoons, a few hidden beaches and a proper sunset. Here is the plan our guests love.
Day 1: arrive and catch the sunset
Arrive by plane at Lio Airport, or by van from Puerto Princesa (about 5 to 6 hours). Check in, have lunch in town, then head to Las Cabanas Beach for the sunset.
Day 2: Tour A, the lagoons
Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island and Seven Commando Beach. This is El Nido's classic tour, with kayaking in the lagoons and lunch on the boat.
Day 3: Tour C or the inland beaches
Choose Tour C for Hidden Beach, Secret Beach, Matinloc Shrine and Helicopter Island. If you prefer to stay on land, the Inland Tour takes you to Nacpan Beach, Lio Beach and Las Cabanas.
Got more time?
Add Tour B for caves and Snake Island, Tour D for quieter beaches near town, or a sunset cruise. Anang can also arrange trips to Port Barton, Coron and Puerto Princesa.
Plan it in one booking
Anang can book your van transfer, island tours and inland tour together. Message us your dates and we'll suggest the best order based on the weather.
Guide 03
El Nido Tours A, B, C and D explained
Which island hopping tour should you choose?
El Nido's island hopping routes are set by the local government and called Tours A, B, C and D. Every operator visits the same stops on each route. What changes is the boat, the crew and the experience.
Tour A: lagoons and beaches
Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island and Seven Commando Beach. The most popular tour, best for first-timers who want the famous lagoons.
Tour B: caves and coves
Snake Island, Cudugnon Cave, Cathedral Cave, Pinagbuyutan Island and Entalula Beach. Great for curious explorers and photographers who want something different.
Tour C: hidden beaches
Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Secret Beach, Helicopter Island and Talisay Beach. Dramatic cliffs and some of the best snorkeling. Some stops can close when the sea is rough.
Tour D: quiet beaches near town
Cadlao Lagoon, Paradise Beach, Pasandigan Cove, Natnat Beach and Bucal Beach. A relaxed day with shorter boat rides, good for families.
Which one first?
- One day only: Tour A.
- Two days: Tour A and Tour C.
- Love snorkeling: Tour C.
- Traveling with kids or older guests: Tour D.
Not sure? Try the tour quiz on our Tours page or ask Anang on WhatsApp.
