El Nido Tour D – Lagoons & Beaches Premium tour(Private / Shared)

El Nido Tour D – Lagoons & Beaches Premium Tour (Private / Shared)

Planning a day in El Nido? If you’re after a blend of breathtaking scenery, tranquil beaches, and memorable water activities, the El Nido Tour D offers an inviting way to explore some of the area’s most photogenic spots. For around $40 per person, you’ll spend about 7 hours discovering Cadlao Lagoon, Small Lagoon, and a handful of pristine beaches, with the option of a private or shared boat experience. It’s a well-rounded trip that combines natural beauty with opportunities for kayaking, snorkeling, and pure relaxation.

What we love most about this tour? First, the stunning scenery of Cadlao Lagoon, with its vibrant turquoise waters and crystal clarity that’s perfect for kayaking. Second, the diversity of beaches and lagoons—each offering its own unique charm, from the raw limestone cliffs of Nat Nat Beach to the quiet serenity of Serenity Beach. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the entrance fee for the Big Lagoon (PHP 200), which adds to your overall expenses, and it’s worth noting this isn’t included in the base price.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day out with plenty of time for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing amidst spectacular scenery. It suits those who appreciate local guides’ insights and prefer a flexible, value-packed experience without sacrificing comfort or natural authenticity.

Key Points

• Stunning water landscapes: Cadlao Lagoon’s vibrant colors and clarity make it a highlight.
• Variety of stops: From lagoons to beaches, each offers unique scenery and activities.
• Snorkeling and kayaking: Plenty of opportunities to get active and explore underwater life.
• Relaxing beach time: Quiet beaches like Nat Nat and Serenity are perfect for unwinding.
• Good value for money: The price includes boat transfers, a picnic lunch, snorkeling gear, and a knowledgeable crew.
• Additional costs: Entrance fees for some locations (PHP 200) and environmental fees (PHP 400) are extra.

Exploring El Nido’s Natural Wonders: A Deep Dive into Tour D

El Nido is famous for its dramatic limestone karsts, turquoise waters, and unspoiled beaches, and tour options like Tour D aim to showcase the best of these natural treasures. This particular itinerary strikes a balance between active water-based pursuits and leisurely beach lounging, making it a favorite among travelers who want a comprehensive, scenic day.

Starting at Cadlao Lagoon: A Visual Feast

The journey begins with a visit to Cadlao Lagoon, one of the most picturesque spots in the area. We loved the way the lagoon’s turquoise waters shimmered in the sunlight, and the clarity was so good you could see the coral at the bottom while paddling in a kayak. One reviewer described it as “an absolutely stunning place and an incredible natural wonder,” and we agree—this is a must-see for anyone who appreciates vibrant landscapes.

Kayaking here is the main activity, and it’s accessible for most skill levels. Even those new to kayaking will find it manageable; the calm waters and gentle breeze make for a peaceful glide. The view of the limestone cliffs surrounding the lagoon makes for perfect photo moments, and it’s a delightful way to start the trip.

Small Lagoon: Compact but Spectacular

Next, the tour takes you to Small Lagoon, a tight inlet ringed by towering limestone walls. This spot is especially popular for kayaking, swimming, and cliff diving. The limestone formations create a dramatic backdrop, and the water’s calmness makes it ideal for a relaxing dip. Multiple reviews highlight how captivating this area is, with one guest calling Small Lagoon “famous for kayaking and swimming,” and we concur—the intimate setting makes it feel like discovering a secret hideaway.

While admission tickets are not included for this lagoon, the experience remains worthwhile as it offers a more close-up encounter with El Nido’s signature limestone structures. If you’re feeling adventurous, cliff diving is a possibility here, adding an extra thrill to the experience.

Beach Stops: Nat Nat, Pasandigan, Paradise, and Serenity

The latter part of the day is dedicated to relaxing beach visits—each with its own character and appeal.

• Nat Nat Beach is a quiet spot with soft white sand and clear waters. A reviewer praised it as “not much crowded,” offering more space to unwind. The presence of towering limestone formations adds rawness and visual interest. It’s ideal for a laid-back break and a swim.

• Pasandigan Cove offers underwater diversity, perfect for snorkeling. Guests can enjoy swimming and observing marine life in a relatively secluded setting. Many travelers appreciated the marine opportunities, with comments about the “diverse and rich marine life” making it clear this is a snorkeling hotspot.

• Paradise Beach lives up to its name with powdery sand, glistening waters, and a serene atmosphere. It’s the quintessential relax-and-wind-down spot, where you can wade, tan, or just soak in the views. One visitor called it “the best place to relax and unwind,” and it’s easy to see why.

• Serenity Beach is a small white sand beach ideal for picnics and quiet reflection. Surrounded by scenic beauty, it offers a tranquil ending to your water-filled day.

Practical Details and Experience Quality

The boat ride itself is praised for being both fun and scenic, with many reviewers noting the helpfulness and kindness of the crew—something that really enhances the overall experience. The service of the crew and the guide (Joshua, in one review) help turn this trip into more than just a sightseeing outing; they create an experience with personal touches and helpful insights.

The tour includes life jackets, snorkeling masks, purified water, and a picnic lunch with fruits, making it convenient and comfortable. For private tours, kayaks are included, giving you flexibility to paddle at your own pace.

Cost and Additional Fees

While the base price of $40 per person offers excellent value, be aware of some additional costs. The admission fee of PHP 200 for the Big Lagoon is not included but is a small price to pay for such a striking site. There’s also an environmental fee of PHP 400, valid for five days, which helps preserve these pristine spots. Including these in your budget ensures no surprises on the day.

Final Thoughts on the Tour

Overall, Tour D offers a well-balanced mix of scenic lagoons, tranquil beaches, and water-based activities. The stunning scenery combined with friendly guides and delicious picnic lunches makes it a practical and enjoyable way to explore El Nido’s natural splendors. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views as standout features, making it clear that this trip can be a highlight of your stay.

What we’d remind potential travelers is that, if you’re after a peaceful, photo-worthy day with plenty of snorkeling and kayaking, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s especially suitable for those who value authentic natural beauty and want a stress-free experience with good value.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, water enthusiasts, and those seeking a relaxing day away from crowded mainland spots. It’s perfect if you want a balance of adventure and leisure with a knowledgeable crew guiding the way. Travelers who appreciate quiet beaches and picturesque lagoons will find this tour particularly satisfying.

If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy water activities, this tour offers the flexibility of private or shared options. It’s well-suited for first-timers as well as experienced visitors wanting a comprehensive glimpse of El Nido’s best water landscapes.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, as long as you’re comfortable in shallow water, you can enjoy kayaking and snorkeling with life jackets provided. The calm lagoons are safe and manageable for most travelers.

How long are the stops?
Each stop lasts about an hour, providing enough time to explore, relax, or take photos without feeling rushed.

Are the boat transfers comfortable?
The tour involves boat transfers that are described as fun, with a helpful crew ensuring safety and comfort throughout the day.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, the PHP 200 admission fee for Big Lagoon and the PHP 400 environmental fee are extra. These are paid on-site and help preserve the area.

Can I customize this tour?
It’s a private or shared tour, and some reviews mention guides being flexible, so you might be able to tailor the itinerary with your guide.

Is this tour available year-round?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In summary, El Nido Tour D offers a fantastic mix of visual splendor, relaxing beaches, and water activities, all at a reasonable price. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, it’s a chance to soak in some of the most stunning scenery the Philippines has to offer, with the benefit of a friendly crew and flexible options. For those craving a day of authentic natural beauty intertwined with adventure, this tour fits the bill perfectly.