El Nido isn’t just about jaw-dropping scenery and crystal-clear waters — it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy memorable lunch experiences. Whether you prefer a communal boodle-fight on a farm, a private beach picnic, or a guided island-hopping feast, the options cater to different tastes and budgets. For example, the El Nido: Jeepney Adventure Tour with Lunch combines scenic countryside, beach relaxation, and a Filipino-style boodle-fight, making it perfect for travelers looking for a lively, social day. Meanwhile, the Private Linapacan Island Day Trip offers a more secluded, luxurious experience with pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. Whether you’re after adventure, privacy, or cultural flavor, El Nido’s lunch tours deliver.
Quick Overview
El Nido’s best lunch experiences include group island-hopping tours, private boat trips, and immersive cultural outings. You’ll find options that range from shared tours with buffet or picnic lunches (El Nido Tour A) to private charters like the Private Paraw Day Sailing. Several tours emphasize local Filipino cuisine, fresh seafood, and scenic picnic spots, ensuring that your meal complements the stunning surroundings. Below, we detail the top contenders to help you choose your ideal lunch experience.
1. El Nido: Jeepney Adventure Tour with Lunch
At number 1 on our list, the El Nido: Jeepney Adventure Tour with Lunch is a lively, full-day outing that combines the thrill of a jeepney ride through scenic countryside with a mix of beach stops and cultural experiences. It includes a boodle-fight style lunch on a Filipino farm, where you’ll share a large, communal meal served on banana leaves. The tour also offers free access to a beach club, perfect for relaxing after lunch, and wraps up with a sunset karaoke session at a rooftop pool bar. Tour guides are praised for their friendliness, and the day’s itinerary includes stops at Nacpan Beach, Lio Beach, and a secret farm lunch stop.
Guests rave about the culture and the chance to make new friends, with many noting this as a perfect way to blend sightseeing with socializing. The value at $35 per person for an 8-hour day, including lunch, makes it a top pick for budget-conscious travelers who want an active, fun-filled day. Bottom line: a social, well-rounded tour for those who want to experience local flavor and scenic beauty.
2. El Nido Palawan Private Tour C, with Lunch
For around $145, the El Nido Palawan Private Tour C offers a customizable experience in a private boat setting. This tour includes stops at Hidden Beach, Helicopter Island, Secret Lagoon, and Matinloc Island, with a buffet lunch served on a scenic beach. The private nature lets you skip crowded spots and spend more time on the places that fascinate you most, whether it’s snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs or relaxing on secluded beaches.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility—perfect for travelers who want to tailor their day—and the exclusivity of a private boat. Reviewers appreciate the attentive crew and the chance to enjoy the pristine environment with minimal other travelers. The lunch, served in a peaceful setting, complements the calm and intimate vibe. Bottom line: a fantastic choice for couples, honeymooners, or anyone seeking a personalized, leisurely day on the water.
3. Private Linapacan Island Day Trip with Buffet Lunch
In third place, the Private Linapacan Island Day Trip offers a unique taste of world-class clarity of waters and pristine beaches. The tour features visits to Maosanon Island and Magransing Island, with a buffet lunch on Linapacan. The highlight is undoubtedly the snorkeling among vibrant coral gardens amid waters so clear they seem surreal.
This day trip is ideal for travelers who value seclusion and natural beauty. The boat is exclusive to your group, and the itinerary allows plenty of time for swimming and relaxing on powdery beaches. Guests describe the experience as “wonderful,” emphasizing how the “crystal waters and peaceful beaches” make it all worthwhile. Priced at $240 per person, it’s a premium experience, but one that delivers in privacy and scenery. Bottom line: perfect for those wanting a luxurious, quiet escape with excellent snorkeling.
4. El Nido Tour A – Group w/ Buffet Lunch
Tour A is one of the most popular and iconic in El Nido, and for good reason. This group tour visits Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Payong-Payong Beach, Secret Lagoon, and Seven Commandos Beach. The day includes a buffet lunch on the beach, with time to kayak, snorkel, and relax on powdery sands. The seven lagoons and limestone formations are simply breathtaking.
Guests love the smooth organization and the chance to explore multiple spots in one day, though it can get crowded at popular sites. The tour’s value at about $44.95 per person for a full day, including lunch, makes it a great option for budget travelers. The guide’s coordination and the scenic stops make this a balanced choice for families or first-timers. Bottom line: a classic, well-rounded tour for those wanting a full day of sightseeing and beach time.
5. El Nido Full Day Tour C with Buffet Lunch
At number 5, this Full Day Tour C offers a slightly more extensive itinerary, including Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, and Talisay Beach. The tour’s highlight is swimming in secret beaches with towering limestone backdrops and enjoying a buffet lunch on the sand. The day is packed with opportunities for snorkeling, relaxing, and taking photos of some of El Nido’s most iconic landscapes.
Reviews mention the “incredible views” and “delicious homemade buffet,” providing excellent value for $44.95 per person. The layout allows for both adventure and downtime, making it suitable for families and travelers who appreciate a mix of activity and relaxation. Bottom line: a comprehensive and scenic tour filled with photo-worthy moments.
6. El Nido Islands: Private Paraw Day Sailing with Lunch
A more relaxed, romantic option, the Private Paraw Day Sailing is perfect for couples or small groups. For $150 per group, you’ll set sail on a traditional Paraw sailboat around Bacuit Bay, stopping at beaches like Ipil and Papaya to snorkel, kayak, and lounge.
What makes this tour special is the intimate, private experience with lunch served on Papaya Beach, where you can soak up the scenery and enjoy fresh seafood. Reviewers highlight the “amazing experience” and the opportunity to escape the crowds. The tour’s shorter duration (about 5 hours) suits those who want a more leisurely day on the water. Bottom line: ideal for couples seeking privacy and a peaceful day at sea.
7. El Nido Palawan fishing with local Fisherman with lunch
For a truly authentic experience, try the Fishing with Local Fishermen. This activity offers a hands-on fishing experience alongside seasoned fishermen, learning traditional techniques and perhaps cooking your catch for lunch. It’s a culture that takes you away from tourist spots into daily life on the water.
Priced at $71 per person, it’s a great value for travelers interested in local customs and genuine experiences. Many describe the guides as helpful and friendly, making it a relaxed, educational outing. This is perfect if you’re looking to connect with local culture rather than just sightseeing. Bottom line: a unique, immersive trip for those seeking an authentic, local experience.
8. El Nido Tour B – Private Tour with Lunch
Tour B is a full-day private experience that takes you to Snake Island, Pangalusian Island, Cudugnon Cave, and Cathedral Caves. With the option to tailor your itinerary, you can spend more time snorkeling or relaxing on the beach. Lunch is included, often served on a pristine island or beach.
Guests mention the magnificent limestone formations and the chance to explore archaeological sites like Cudugnon Cave. The private setting allows for a more relaxed pace, suitable for couples, families, or small groups wanting exclusivity. The tour is praised for its friendly crew and breathtaking scenery. Bottom line: a flexible, intimate adventure in some of El Nido’s most scenic sites.
9. El Nido: Secret Lagoon Island Hopping with Lunch
This 6-hour tour focuses on Secret Lagoon, with stops at Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Seven Commandos Beach. The highlight is discovering the Secret Lagoon, accessible through a small opening, with a lunch served nearby. The route offers snorkeling among coral gardens and relaxing on white beaches.
Rated 5/5 by those who experienced it, the tour delivers intimate access to some of El Nido’s most photogenic spots. The tour is perfect for those who want a shorter, yet memorable day of island hopping. Reviewers appreciate the helpful crew and the scenic stops. Bottom line: compact, scenic, and ideal for travelers with limited time.
10. El Nido: Shared Island Hopping Tour C with Buffet Lunch
Another popular choice, this shared Tour C explores Secret Beach, Helicopter Island, Star Beach, and Talisay Beach. It includes a buffet lunch amid stunning scenery, with plenty of snorkeling and swimming.
Reviews note that while the tour is well-organized, it can get crowded at major sites, especially in peak season. The value at $29 per person makes it an accessible way to see El Nido’s highlights. It’s suited for travelers comfortable with larger groups and who prioritize seeing many attractions in one day. Bottom line: a cost-effective, lively tour for social travelers.
11. El Nido: Sharing/Joiner Island Hopping Tour A w/BUFFET LUNCH
This sharing Tour A offers a classic experience with stops at Seven Commandos Beach, Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Secret Lagoon. It includes a buffet lunch and visits to some of the most iconic spots in a full 8-hour day.
Although reviews mention some organizational issues, overall, the tour is praised for beautiful scenery and good value at $22 per person. It’s best suited for budget travelers who are comfortable with larger groups and want to see the main highlights without extra costs. Bottom line: affordable, scenic, and popular among solo and group travelers.
12. El Nido Group Tour B with Lunch
The Group Tour B is a comprehensive full-day trip that highlights Snake Island’s sandbar, Pangalusian Island, Cudugnon Cave, and Cathedral Caves. The tour features archaeological sites and stunning limestone formations, with a lunch included.
Rated 4.5/5, travelers appreciate the scenic spots and the friendly crew. While some mention organization hiccups, the overall experience is positive, especially for those wanting a mix of culture and landscape. It’s a great option for those who want to pack a lot into a day. Bottom line: a varied, enriching tour for curious travelers.
13. El Nido Group Tour A with Beach Lunch
This Group Tour A is a classic, featuring Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Payong-Payong Beach, Secret Lagoon, and Seven Commandos Beach. It’s a full day of snorkeling, kayaking, and beach lounging, with a beach lunch that keeps you fueled for the adventure.
Rated 4.5/5, travelers highlight the amazing scenery and well-organized schedule. The variety of stops—ranging from lagoons to hidden beaches—makes it suitable for first-time visitors. Keep in mind, the tour can be busy, but the scenery compensates. Bottom line: reliable, scenic, great for first-timers.
14. El Nido Palawan Mangrove and Sand Bar Tour, with Lunch
A more ecological choice, the Mangrove and Sand Bar Tour combines natural mangrove forests with sandbar exploration. The tour offers kayaking through mangroves and relaxing on white sands. The included lunch adds to the experience, often served in scenic spots.
Rated 5/5 by those who enjoyed it, this tour is ideal for nature lovers interested in ecological diversity and conservation efforts. It’s a peaceful alternative to the party-heavy tours and provides a genuine connection to El Nido’s environment. Bottom line: a perfect fit for eco-conscious travelers seeking tranquility and nature.
$118.00 per person
15. EL NIDO: Private Island Hopping Tour C w/BUFFET LUNCH
Finally, the Private Island Hopping Tour C offers a luxurious, private experience exploring Secret Beach, Helicopter Island, Big Lagoon, and Star Beach. The tour includes a buffet lunch and ample time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in peaceful surroundings.
Guests emphasize the exclusivity and scenic beauty, making it ideal for honeymoons or small groups wanting comfort and privacy. The tour’s longer duration (up to 8 hours) makes it a full-day indulgence. Bottom line: a top-tier, private tour for travelers who want the best of El Nido without the crowds.
How to Choose Your Best Lunch Experience in El Nido
Picking the right tour depends on what kind of experience you’re after. Budget travelers might prefer the Group Tours, which offer good value, scenic highlights, and a lively atmosphere. If privacy and customization are more your style, consider the Private Tours, which allow for a tailored, intimate experience. For those interested in local culture, the Jeepney Adventure offers culture with a fun social vibe.
Practical tips include booking early—many tours sell out during peak season—and considering your fitness level and interests. For example, if snorkeling is your priority, tours with reef stops like the Full Day Tour C are ideal. Want relaxed scenery? The Paraw Sailing provides a peaceful day at sea with excellent lunch options.
Final Thoughts
El Nido offers an impressive variety of lunch experiences, from social group tours to private adventures, each showcasing its spectacular landscapes and rich marine life. If you’re after value for money, options like Tour A or Tour C deliver scenic highlights with a reasonable price tag. For a more personalized escape, private tours or sailing trips provide exclusivity and tailored moments.
No matter which you choose, the key is to book early—these tours fill up fast, especially in high season. With so many options, you’re sure to find a lunch experience that fits your style and heightens your El Nido adventure. Happy exploring!