El Nido Island Hopping Tour C with Lunch

Exploring El Nido’s Bacuit Bay on Tour C offers a beautiful blend of adventure, stunning scenery, and authentic island experiences. Priced at just $32 per person, this full-day trip lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours and covers some of the most iconic spots in Palawan’s famed archipelago. You’ll visit places like the Secret Lagoon, where you swim through a tiny rock opening to reach a peaceful, sandy paradise, along with Hidden Beach, Tapiutan Beach, Matinloc Island, and Dilumacad Island, often called Helicopter Island for its distinctive shape.

Two things we especially appreciate about this tour are the convenience of included hotel transfers — which removes the hassle of arranging transport — and the expert local guides who help bring each stop alive with stories and tips. The included lunch, served on a scenic island, is a real highlight, allowing you to relax and refuel amid breathtaking views. One potential consideration is that park fees, entrance to Matinloc Island, and Secret Lagoon also cost extra, so you’ll want to keep that in mind when budgeting. It’s best suited for travelers who love a mix of easy access, natural beauty, and a touch of adventure, particularly those eager to experience El Nido’s most photogenic spots without the complication of organizing their own boat routes.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Hotel transfers, guide, and lunch included make for a stress-free day.
• Iconic Spots: Visit Secret Lagoon, Hidden Beach, Tapiutan, and Helicopter Island – some of the most photographed in Palawan.
• Natural Wonders: Swim through rock formations and snorkel in crystal-clear waters.
• Limited Capacity: Tours are capped at 30 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Extra Fees: Park, entrance, and optional rentals (snorkel, kayak) are additional costs.
• Booking Tips: Pre-book well in advance, especially for popular stops like Secret Lagoon.

In-Depth Review of El Nido Island Hopping Tour C

Why choose Tour C in El Nido? If you’re after an authentic experience that combines stunning scenery with manageable logistics, this trip hits the sweet spot. At $32, it’s an affordable way to access some of the most beautiful islands and beaches in Palawan. The tour’s core appeal is that it offers a full day of exploration with minimal fuss—thanks to hotel pick-up and drop-off, guide services, and lunch included.

The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to maximize your time at the most photogenic and unique spots. You’ll begin at Hidden Beach — a limestone-enclosed cove with a natural infinity pool feel, perfect for a quick dip and photo ops. The Secret Lagoon is a real highlight; it’s separated from the open sea by a small rock opening, accessible only by swimming through a narrow crevice. This makes it a truly special experience, and as one reviewer shared, “the views from above the water and underwater are breathtaking.” Expect some swimming and floating through the opening, which adds a nice adventure element.

Next up is Dilumacad Island, affectionately called Helicopter Island due to its shape. Here, you get about 30 minutes to explore, relax, or snorkel. It’s a wonderful photo stop: a wide sandy beach with a distinctive, helicopter-like silhouette. Following that, Tapiutan Beach serves as a perfect place for swimming and building sandcastles, with ample time to enjoy the sun and the water.

The included lunch is served on a scenic spot, and from reviews, it seems to be a memorable part of the experience. It’s a chance to unwind, enjoy local flavors, and chat with fellow travelers. The guide service is also noteworthy; knowledgeable guides like “Kuya Jason” get high praise for their welcoming attitude and helpfulness, making the trip as smooth as possible.

A few nuances are worth mentioning. Park fees, the entrance to Matinloc Island, and Secret Lagoon access are paid separately by travelers, which can add to costs if you’re not prepared. Kayak and snorkel rentals are available but are extra, so if you want to explore underwater or paddle around, plan for additional expenses.

Timing is flexible: stops are estimated at around 30 minutes each, but the group can decide to linger longer or leave sooner. This flexibility helps tailor the day to your pace, but crowds and limited slots—especially at popular stops—mean it’s wise to book early.

The Experience from Reviews

Many travelers rave about the stunning views they encounter. As Angelica_M put it, “nothing amounts to how beautiful the islands of Tour C can offer,” emphasizing the combination of land and underwater scenery. Guides are frequently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the day both enjoyable and educational. It’s clear that the guides’ local insights turn a simple boat tour into a memorable adventure.

Timing and logistics are considered well-managed, with many appreciating the all-in-one package that removes the stress of organizing your own boat or transportation. However, some mention the extra costs for park fees and optional rentals, so travelers should budget accordingly.

Why This Tour Works for You

This tour is ideal if you’re looking for an easy, well-organized day that showcases El Nido’s most beautiful spots without the hassle of planning individual transfers or navigating complicated schedules. It’s perfect for first-timers wanting highlights, families seeking a manageable adventure, or solo travelers eager to meet others. The small group size, guided commentary, and scenic stops make it a memorable, hassle-free way to experience Palawan’s natural beauty.

Practical Details to Keep in Mind

• Duration: 6 to 8 hours, depending on group pace and weather.
• Start Time: 9:00 am from Marbers Beach Club.
• Price: $32 per person, with a $50 van transfer surcharge if your hotel isn’t in downtown El Nido.
• Included: Lunch, guide, boat transfers.
• Not Included: Park fees (400 PHP), optional rentals, entrance fee to Matinloc Shrine.
• Booking: Highly recommended to prebook, especially for popular stops.
• Weather: Tour is subject to favorable weather; cancellations are possible if conditions are unsafe, but you will be offered an alternative or full refund.

The Sum Up

El Nido’s Tour C offers an excellent balance of natural beauty, ease, and value. You’ll visit iconic spots like Secret Lagoon and Hidden Beach, swim through narrow rock openings, and enjoy a scenic lunch on a tranquil island. The guide’s local knowledge adds depth to the experience, and the included transfers remove common travel headaches.

While extra fees for park access and equipment rentals can add up, the overall package remains a great deal considering the stunning locations covered and the convenience offered. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of El Nido’s top sights without the stress of organizing each detail themselves. If you’re after memorable scenery, friendly guides, and an authentic island-hopping experience, this tour checks all the boxes.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes boat transfers, a guided service, and a picnic lunch. Hotel transfers from El Nido or Corong-Corong are also part of the package.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 6 to 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

Are park fees included?
No, the El Nido Eco-Tourism Development Fee (400 PHP), entrance to Matinloc Shrine, and Secret Lagoon fees are paid separately by travelers.

What stops will I visit?
You’ll visit Hidden Beach, Secret Lagoon, Dilumacad Island (Helicopter Island), and Tapiutan Beach.

Can I rent snorkel gear or kayaks?
Yes, snorkel equipment and kayaks are available for rent at additional cost.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, towel, sun protection, a hat, and cash for extra fees or rentals.

Do I need to prebook?
Yes, prebooking is recommended, especially for popular stops like Secret Lagoon, to secure your place and avoid disappointment.

In summary, El Nido’s Tour C provides a well-rounded, affordable, and memorable way to explore some of Palawan’s most spectacular islands and beaches. With stunning scenery, friendly guides, and a hassle-free setup, it’s a fantastic choice for those eager to experience the true beauty of El Nido without too much fuss.