El Nido Full Day Tour C with Buffet Lunch

El Nido Full Day Tour C with Buffet Lunch: A Deep Dive into the Islands’ Hidden Gems

When you picture the Philippines’ most iconic island paradise, El Nido instantly comes to mind—crystal-clear waters, towering limestone formations, and secluded beaches. For those wanting to see the best of what El Nido’s hidden corners have to offer, Tour C is a popular choice. Priced at around $45 per person and lasting about 7 to 8 hours, it promises a full day of exploring some of the most breathtaking spots, including Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Talisay Beach, and Dilumacad Island.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we appreciate its focus on secluded beaches and secret spots, like the famed Secret Beach, accessible only through a small water entrance, and Talisay Beach, which offers jaw-dropping views in the Tapiutan Strait. Second, the buffet lunch on the beach is a genuine highlight, allowing you to combine delicious local flavors with jaw-dropping scenery—no hurried picnics here.

However, a word of caution: it’s a big-group tour, sometimes with over 50 travelers, which can make the experience feel a bit crowded at peak times or during busy season. Also, some reviews mention last-minute schedule changes due to weather or other factors, so flexibility becomes a key virtue when booking.

This tour suits travelers who love adventure, scenic water views, and secret beaches—perfect for those who enjoy a mix of swimming, exploring, and relaxing in spectacular settings. If you’re after a more exclusive or private experience, this might be less ideal, but for value and broad access, it hits the mark.

Key Points

• Stunning stops: Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, and Talisay Beach are highlights for their visual drama.
• Good value: At under $50, it includes a buffet lunch and multiple stops — a comprehensive day for the price.
• Group size: Up to 50 travelers, which can feel lively but less personalized.
• Flexible itinerary: Last-minute changes are possible due to weather or safety, so patience is necessary.
• Expert guides: Reviews praise guides for their friendliness and helpfulness, enhancing your overall experience.
• Snorkeling potential: Many stops offer opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, with some reviews highlighting fun encounters with sea urchins and coral.

A Detailed Look at El Nido Tour C

The Allure of the Itinerary

This tour hits five key spots—each with a unique flavor and reason to visit. We’ll walk through each, explaining what you might expect and why they’re worth the visit.

Secret Beach: This is often the first stop, and it truly lives up to its name. Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and accessible only through a small water entrance, Secret Beach promises an intimate experience. The abundant coral and peaceful sandy shores make it perfect for a quick swim or just soaking in the scenery. One traveler summed it up: “The secluded locale with towering rock formations and peaceful sands left a lasting impression.” The quiet and privacy of this spot provide a stark contrast to busier beaches elsewhere, making it a must-see.

Hidden Beach: This is probably the most acclaimed stop of the tour. With its stunning karst limestone backdrop and an entrance only accessible via a swim through a small opening, it’s a true hidden treasure. Its popularity is evident, and many reviews mention that it’s “one of the must-see beaches in El Nido.” Expect to spend about 1.5 hours here, which is ample time to swim, snorkel, or just relax and take photos of the dramatic cliffs.

Matinloc Shrine: Moving away from beaches, this spot offers a mix of history and scenery. The white sand beach with towering limestone cliffs is perfect for photos, and the clear waters invite a refreshing swim. The shrine itself adds a dash of cultural intrigue, and the included admission fee means you won’t have extra costs here. Reviewers mention the breathtaking views and how good the lunch buffet is—a homemade spread right on the beach.

Talisay Beach: Located in Tapiutan Strait, this beach is described as “one of the most stunning views you will ever see in El Nido.” It’s a great spot to unwind, take in the scenery, or paddle around. The reviews rave about how blown away travelers are by the beauty of the surroundings, with some calling it “simply unforgettable.” Expect to spend about 1.5 hours here, perfect for relaxing or taking a leisurely swim.

Dilumacad Island (Helicopter Island): Named for its shape, this island offers lush limestone hills and virgin beaches. It’s perfect for a quick dip or some snorkel time. Many travelers enjoy the virgin beaches and the chance to explore the island’s limestone cliffs. It’s an excellent spot for photography, with the island’s shape adding to its allure.

The Food and Its Role in the Experience

A standout feature of this tour is the buffet lunch served right on the beach. Several reviews praise the home-cooked style buffet as “delicious” and “more than enough,” which makes the day feel more relaxed and authentic. We love the idea of enjoying local flavors in a stunning setting—no hurried sandwiches or cramped picnic tables here.

What to Expect From the Guides and Crew

Multiple reviews highlight friendly, helpful guides and crew members, with some describing staff going above and beyond—making anklets, taking photos, and assisting in and out of boats. One reviewer even mentioned tasting fresh sea urchin, a reminder of how personalized and authentic the experience can be when guides are attentive.

Practical Considerations

While the tour offers tremendous value, keep in mind some logistical points. Bottled water is not included, so bring your own, especially since the day involves a lot of swimming and physical activity. Kayaks are available at PHP 400, but if you want to snorkel, gear costs about PHP 70 per person. Entrance fees to places like the Big Lagoon (PHP 200) and environmental fees (PHP 400, valid for 14 days) are extra costs that you’ll need to budget for.

The group size, with a maximum of 50 travelers, means it can feel lively—ideal if you enjoy socializing or meeting other travelers. But if you prefer a quieter, more exclusive day, this might feel less intimate.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Variety of stunning locations with unique features
– Good value for a full-day experience, including buffet lunch
– Knowledgeable guides praised for friendliness and helpfulness
– Opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking
– Authentic, homemade lunch on the beach

Cons:
– Large group sizes might mean less personalized attention
– Schedule changes can occur last-minute due to weather or safety concerns
– Extra costs for activities, gear, and entrance fees
– Crowded spots at peak times may detract from the secluded vibe

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re someone who relishes adventurous water-based activities paired with stunning scenery, this tour is perfect. It’s great for travelers comfortable with large groups and flexible schedules. If your priority is exploring secret beaches and enjoying authentic Filipino food in a relaxed setting, this tour will satisfy. But if you prefer a more private, tailored experience, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

El Nido Tour C offers a solid balance of adventure and relaxation, showcasing some of the most beautiful and lesser-known spots in the area. For under $50, you gain access to spectacular beaches, cultural sites, and a delicious buffet lunch—all with friendly guides to help you soak in the scenery. While the group size and weather-dependent schedule adjustments are something to keep in mind, the overall value and authentic experiences make it a worthwhile choice for most travelers seeking a memorable day in El Nido.

This tour suits those who want an active, scenic adventure packed with opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and sampling local cuisine. For travelers eager to explore the off-the-beaten-path beaches and enjoy a fun, friendly atmosphere, Tour C hits the sweet spot.

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, free pickup is available for travelers staying within El Nido town. Outside town, additional charges may apply.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 7 to 8 hours, making it a full day of adventure and relaxation.

What’s included in the tour price?
The tour price includes transportation within El Nido town, guide services, and a buffet lunch on the beach.

Are there additional costs I should prepare for?
Yes, expect to pay extra for activities like kayaking (PHP 400 per kayak), snorkeling gear (PHP 70 per person), entrance fees (like PHP 200 for Big Lagoon), and environmental fees (PHP 400, valid for 14 days).

How crowded does this tour get?
The maximum group size is 50 travelers, which means it can be lively and bustling, especially during peak season.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. Poor weather may lead to cancellations or schedule adjustments. In such cases, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I bring my own gear?
Yes, bringing your own snorkeling gear and water is a good idea, as bottled water is not provided on the boat.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most travelers find it suitable, but keep in mind the long day and some physical activity involved. Check with your group’s comfort with water activities.

Can I customize this tour?
Not directly, as it follows a set itinerary, but guides often adapt based on weather and group preferences. For private options, inquire about personalized tours.

In brief: If you’re after a well-rounded day of exploring stunning beaches with friendly guides and authentic Filipino food, El Nido Tour C is a fantastic choice. Just remember to pack your water, be flexible, and prepare for a lively, adventure-filled experience that showcases the very best of El Nido’s secret and scenic spots.