Experience the Magic of El Nido with the Highlights Tour & Island Lunch

Kicking off at 8:00 am, this El Nido Highlights Tour offers a comprehensive taste of Palawan’s most stunning islands and beaches. For $182.50 per person, you’ll spend approximately 8 hours exploring iconic spots like Big Lagoon, Secret Beach, Helicopter Island, and Hidden Beach. With a well-organized schedule, private boat, and an expert guide, it’s designed for those eager to see the best of El Nido without spending days doing so.

Two things we love about this experience are the carefully curated itinerary—which hits all the must-see spots—and the personalized service with a licensed guide and private boat. The inclusion of a hearty lunch on the beach is another highlight, giving you a taste of local flavors in a stunning setting.

A possible consideration? The tour’s timing and group size mean you should be prepared for a full day, and those with mobility issues might find some stops a bit challenging. Still, if you’re after a streamlined, authentic experience that maximizes your time, this tour hits the mark.

This tour is perfect for travelers with limited time in El Nido who want to see a variety of islands and beaches—and are comfortable with a busy day of sightseeing. The glowing reviews from past travelers emphasize knowledgeable guides and amazing views, making it clear that this is a strong choice for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.

Key Points

Curated Island Hopping: Visit five of El Nido’s top spots, including Big Lagoon and Helicopter Island.
All-Inclusive Experience: Lunch, bottled water, sodas, and transfers within El Nido Town Proper are covered.
Expert Guidance: A licensed guide and private boat crew enhance safety and local insight.
Flexible & Efficient: Designed for travelers wanting a broad overview in one day.
Limited Mobility Consideration: Not ideal for those with mobility challenges.
Highly Praised: Consistently high ratings and multiple reviews mention friendly guides and breathtaking scenery.

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Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Big Lagoon: The Crown Jewel of El Nido

Starting your day at Big Lagoon, you’ll understand why this spot is a postcard favorite. Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, the lagoon’s crystal-clear waters invite you to kayak or simply admire from the shore. The scenery is as stunning in person as it is in photos, with drone shots and movies often showcasing its natural beauty. As one reviewer noted, “the natural structure is breathtaking,” making it a perfect first stop to set the tone for the day.

Secret Beach: A Private Escape

Next, the tour brings you to Secret Beach, a hidden cove backed by limestone cliffs. What makes this spot special is the narrow cave swim-through, which offers a touch of adventure and a chance to experience the area’s geology firsthand. Though accessible only by boat and a short swim, many find the effort worthwhile, especially with the company of friendly guides.

Seven Commandos Beach: Relax and Unwind

After the morning explorations, you’ll stop at Seven Commandos Beach, famous for its powdery white sands and gentle waves. Here, you’ll enjoy a well-earned break with plenty of time to swim, sunbathe, or indulge in cold drinks at the beach bar. The welcoming atmosphere and lush surroundings make it an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch.

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Helicopter Island: A Shape That Captures Attention

Named for its helicopter-like shape when viewed from afar, Dilumacad Island (Helicopter Island) is a highlight for snorkelers and beach lovers alike. The silky sand and vibrant coral reefs attract marine life, promising colorful underwater scenes. Many guests appreciate the chance to swim and snorkel in the turquoise waters, often commenting on the rich marine life encountered.

Hidden Beach: Serenity Behind Limestone Cliffs

Your final stop, Hidden Beach, offers a peaceful ending to your island-hopping day. Tucked behind towering stones and surrounded by coral reefs, this quiet spot is perfect for relaxing or enjoying a private moment. The calm sands and scenic backdrop make it a favorite among those seeking solitude.

The Island Lunch: A Delicious Break

Included in the tour is a local-style lunch, served on the beach. This meal not only refuels you but also provides a taste of the region’s culinary offerings, adding an authentic flavor to your adventure. Alongside bottled water and sodas, the meal feels generous and well-planned, keeping you energized throughout the day.

Practical Details and What You Can Expect

Your day begins with pickup within El Nido Town Proper, ensuring a smooth start. The private boat and crew, licensed guides, and group discounts make for a comfortable and personalized experience. The tour lasts around 8 hours, during which you’ll visit five stunning locations, each offering a different perspective of Palawan’s natural beauty.

Transportation is by own private local boat, meaning you won’t be sharing with large groups, enhancing comfort and flexibility. The group size isn’t specified but given the private boat setup, it’s likely a small, intimate group—ideal for those who prefer a more personal experience.

The tour price covers entrance fees for Big Lagoon, eco taxes, and other government fees—no hidden costs, which helps you budget better. However, if you wish to kayak, there’s an additional fee (P400 per kayak), which can add another layer of fun if you’re into paddling.

Considerations

While the tour is well-organized, it’s a full day of activity. Travelers with mobility limitations should note that some stops require short swims or walking on uneven terrain. The schedule is tight, and the stops are brief, so if you prefer a relaxed pace, you should be prepared for a busy day.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

From the glowing reviews, it’s clear this tour is a hit. One satisfied traveler exclaimed, “amazing time with lagum adventure,” highlighting the timeliness of pickup and amazing crew. Another praised the flexibility and friendliness of the guides, stating, “Great tour organization and the team was very friendly and flexible.”

Many reviewers appreciated that the tour showcases the best islands in El Nido, with one writing, “this tour showcases the best islands to visit in El Nido by lagum adventure,” emphasizing how well the itinerary balances iconic sights and quality experiences. The guides’ knowledgeability and the views they help you witness clearly stood out as the main highlights.

The Sum Up: Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re seeking a well-organized, value-packed day that covers El Nido’s most iconic spots, this tour is a fantastic choice. It suits travelers who want a rundown of the area without the hassle of planning each detail themselves. The experience is particularly appealing for those who value expert guides and stunning scenery, as reflected in rave reviews praising the guides’ friendliness and knowledge.

While it’s best for those able to handle a full day of activity, it offers authentic, memorable moments with breathtaking views and a chance to explore Palawan’s most beloved islands. For first-timers or travelers with limited time, this highlights tour acts as a perfect introduction to El Nido’s natural treasures.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While most travelers can participate, it’s not recommended for those with mobility problems or very young children due to the physical nature of some stops and boat transfers.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers lunch, bottled water, soda, pickup within El Nido Town Proper, a licensed guide, and your own private boat and crew.

Are entrance and government fees included?
Yes, the fees for Big Lagoon entrance, eco tax, and government charges are included in the cost.

Can I kayak during the tour?
Kayak use is available for an additional P400 per kayak, with a maximum of two passengers per kayak.

What time does the tour start?
Tours commence at 8:00 am, with pickup arranged within El Nido Town Proper.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, so be prepared for a full day of exploring.

Is the tour customizable or flexible?
The reviews suggest the guides are friendly and flexible, though the itinerary itself is fairly fixed to maximize sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, waterproof camera or phone, and perhaps a hat or towel for beach stops.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, but less notice may result in no refund.

This El Nido Highlights Tour with Island Lunch offers a well-balanced, breathtaking, and authentic glimpse into Palawan’s natural beauty—perfect for those eager to make the most of a single day amidst some of the Philippines’ most stunning scenery.