El Nido: Tour C to Hidden Beach, Helicopter Island & More

El Nido: Tour C to Hidden Beach, Helicopter Island & More
Location: Cavite, Philippines
Country: Philippines
Rating: 3.8 (4 reviews)
Price: $26 per person
Supplier: Akingventures Travel & Tours

Quick Overview and First Impressions
For just around $26, you can spend nearly a full day exploring some of El Nido’s most captivating spots with Tour C. The adventure typically lasts about 7.5 hours, starting around 8:30 or 9:00 in the morning, and takes you through a series of scenic highlights: dramatic cliffs, secret beaches, and sunny shores. Your guide (not named here but described as friendly and informative) will lead you through a carefully curated route designed to showcase the area’s natural beauty.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to see Secret Beach, a true hidden gem accessible through a tiny opening in limestone rocks—perfect for those craving a sense of discovery. Second, the stunning vistas of Helicopter Island, with its dramatic cliffs and distinctive shape, make for memorable photos and a real sense of adventure.

A couple of considerations? The crowds at Secret Beach can be a bit overwhelming, as noted in reviews, so if your ideal trip involves solitude, this may be less ideal. Also, the entry fees and environmental charges add to the cost, so budget accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy quick, visually stunning excursions, especially those who can handle a group setting and appreciate the convenience of guided sightseeing. It’s especially good for first-timers or those short on time but eager to see some of El Nido’s most famous sights.

Key Points

• Affordable price for a full-day boat tour with lots of photogenic stops
• Highlights include Secret Beach, Helicopter Island, and Hidden Beach—perfect for scenic lovers
• Group tour experience with a guide, suitable for social travelers
• Caution about crowds at popular spots like Secret Beach, especially in peak seasons
• Includes a picnic lunch and snorkeling gear, making it easy to relax and explore
• Additional fees apply, including environmental and entrance fees, adding to the overall cost

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of El Nido Tour C

Getting Started: The Meeting Point and Practicalities

You’ll meet at Grounded 100% Arabica Coffee in El Nido around 8:30 or 9:00 AM. It’s a convenient spot, and the early start means you’ll beat some of the crowds later in the day. The tour runs for approximately 7.5 hours, wrapping up around 4:30 PM, giving you plenty of time to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

The group is typically mixed with other travelers, unless you go for a private option. Be prepared for some shared space with fellow adventurers, which often enriches the experience but can also mean a busier scene at the stops.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Actually Do

The day is structured around six main stops, each offering a different aspect of El Nido’s natural beauty:

Stop 1: Helicopter Island

Guided tour duration: 30 minutes
This island is renowned for its striking cliffs and the island’s helicopter-like shape. We loved the way the cliffs rise sharply from the sea, creating a dramatic backdrop for photos. It’s perfect for a short walk and appreciating the rugged coastline. The guide’s insights help you understand the island’s unique formation, and the views from the top are well worth the visit.

Stop 2: Matinloc Straight

Cruising through the straight offers sweeping vistas of limestone formations and calm waters. We found this to be a peaceful moment, just enjoying the scenery and the gentle sea breeze. It’s a good chance for photos and to appreciate the scale of the landscape.

Stop 3: Talisay Beach

Here, you can relax on pristine sands or swim in clear, inviting waters. The beach is peaceful, ideal for lounging or a quick swim. It’s also a good spot for your picnic-style lunch, which is included, allowing you to feast amid beautiful surroundings.

Stop 4: Hidden Beach

This is probably the most secluded stop, where you’ll need to snorkel or wade through shallow waters to reach the tiny cove. The calm, clear waters make for good snorkeling, and the sense of discovering a secret hideaway is truly rewarding.

Stop 5: Secret Beach

Accessed through a small opening in the rocks, this hidden spot has a mysterious charm. It’s a little crowded, as one review points out—”secret beach…..but too many people”—but still worth the visit for the novelty of reaching a tucked-away paradise. It’s best appreciated early or during less busy times.

What to Expect at Each Location

The stops are well-paced, with guided tours at key sites, giving you insights into the geology and history of each place. The snorkeling gear included is straightforward but effective, allowing you to explore the underwater life if conditions permit.

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Food and Comfort

The included picnic lunch is simple but satisfying, often featuring local flavors. You can expect sandwiches, fruits, and drinks, served on a scenic beach. Bring water shoes, as some stops involve rocky or sandy walkways. A hat and swimwear are must-haves to maximize your comfort and fun.

What Travelers Say

The review from a fellow traveler sums up the experience: “secret beach… but too many people.” Crowds are an issue at some stops, especially Secret Beach, so if solitude is your priority, try to go early or avoid peak season.

Cost and Value

At $26, this tour offers significant value—covering transportation, guide services, snorkeling gear, and a picnic lunch. Additional fees like the environmental charge (P400) and entrance fee (P280) are extra, but they’re standard for protected natural sites in the Philippines. For the price, the quality of scenery and variety of stops make it a good deal, especially if you want a comprehensive taste of El Nido’s highlights without the hassle of organizing individual trips.

Who Will Love This Tour?

It’s perfect for first-time visitors eager to see iconic spots in a single day, or for travelers on a budget looking for a guided experience. It’s also suitable for those comfortable with group tours and crowds, and who enjoy scenic sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxing on beautiful beaches.

The Sum Up: Is Tour C Right for You?

This tour provides a solid introduction to some of El Nido’s most photogenic spots without breaking the bank. It’s well-suited for travelers who prioritize stunning views, easy access, and a full-day adventure that covers a variety of landscapes—from towering cliffs to secret beaches. If you’re okay with a shared group experience and the possibility of crowds at popular spots, this tour offers good value and memorable scenery.

However, if you prefer solitude and fewer visitors, or if you want more flexibility in your itinerary, you might find the crowds at Secret Beach a bit overwhelming. The included fees and the group setting might also be less appealing if you’re looking for a more private, bespoke experience.

Ultimately, this tour is a great choice for travelers looking to tick off iconic sights with minimal planning and a modest budget. It’s a chance to enjoy some of El Nido’s most dramatic vistas and secret corners, making it a worthwhile, if busy, adventure.

FAQ

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes a guide, life jackets, snorkeling gear, and a picnic-style lunch. Entrance and environmental fees are extra.

What’s the meeting point?
You meet at Grounded 100% Arabica Coffee, El Nido Branch, by 9:00 AM. The location is convenient and easy to find.

How long does the tour last?
Expect approximately 7.5 hours, with the tour wrapping up around 4:30 PM.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, you will need to pay an environmental fee of P400 and an entrance fee of P280, unless you’ve paid these earlier.

Is this a group tour?
Yes, unless you choose a private option. You’ll share the boat with other travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, water shoes, and sunscreen to stay comfortable during the day.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and you can explore the underwater life at stops like Hidden Beach and Secret Beach.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Generally, yes, especially for families comfortable with boat trips and snorkeling. Keep in mind the busy spots might be less enjoyable for very young children.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours are subject to cancellation due to weather conditions. It’s good to check in advance and have a flexible schedule.

In its essence, Tour C offers a practical, scenic, and affordable way to see the highlights of El Nido in a single day. With a mix of breathtaking viewpoints and hidden nooks, it appeals to travelers eager for an authentic island experience, even if it means sharing the spots with other visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here: