El Nido Group Tour A with Beach Lunch

El Nido Group Tour A with Beach Lunch: A Balancing Act of Adventure and Serenity

El Nido, with its towering limestone cliffs and shimmering turquoise waters, beckons travelers seeking a blend of adventure and tranquility. For around $44.95 per person, Tour A offers an immersive experience that hits many high points of the region—visiting iconic lagoons, secluded beaches, and secret spots only accessible by boat. With a typical 7-hour duration, this tour delivers a comprehensive taste of El Nido’s best without feeling rushed.

What we love about this tour is its focus on authentic natural beauty—from kayaking through Big Lagoon’s calm waters to relaxing with a coconut on Seven Commandos Beach. Plus, the inclusion of a lunch on the beach makes it a well-rounded day out. The friendly guides and well-organized itinerary help make sure you don’t miss the highlights.

That said, there are a few considerations. The snorkeling can be somewhat pedestrian, with smaller fish and less vibrant reefs than some might hope for, and certain activities like kayaking and snorkeling masks incur additional costs. Also, if you’re traveling with small children or those with mobility challenges, note that getting in and out of the water or climbing ladders might require some effort.

This tour suits those who want a full day of picture-perfect scenery combined with light adventure—ideal for nature lovers, first-time visitors, or anyone craving a sampler of El Nido’s top sights.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery at lagoons, beaches, and secret spots.
• Well-organized 7-hour itinerary offers a balance of adventure and relaxation.
• Moderate price includes boat transfers, entrance fees, and a beach lunch.
• Additional costs for activities like kayaking or snorkeling gear.
• Accessibility considerations for walking in water or climbing ladders.
• Authentic experience with friendly guides and picturesque destinations.

An In-Depth Look at El Nido Tour A

The Experience Starts Early, Ends Satisfied

Launching at 9:00 am, the tour begins with pick-up service (within El Nido town) and a short briefing. You’ll board a comfortable boat with up to 50 travelers, giving a feeling of camaraderie but still enough space to enjoy your personal space. The day is packed with stops, each showcasing a different facet of El Nido’s natural charm.

Big Lagoon: The First Marvel

The first stop is the Big Lagoon, a true showstopper. Expect crystal-clear waters framed by towering limestone cliffs that seem to rise straight out of the sea. Here, we loved the opportunity to kayak through calm waters, which offers a unique vantage point to appreciate the scenery. Snorkeling is also on offer, though reviews suggest the fish tend to be small, and the coral less vibrant than other spots.

Admission to the lagoon is included, and the calm waters provide a perfect intro to the day. The tranquility here sets the tone for what’s to come.

Shimizu Island: Underwater and Beach Bliss

Next, we head to Shimizu Island, known for its lively marine life. This spot is ideal for snorkeling among coral reefs, where you might see brightly colored fish and interesting marine textures. The island also features a scenic beach, perfect for relaxing after some underwater exploring.

Guests rave about the lunch served here—a fresh picnic under coconut trees, blending a bit of indulgence with the desert-island atmosphere. Keep in mind, snorkeling gear, including masks, costs extra (P100/set), which is worth considering if underwater exploration is high on your list.

Payong-Payong Beach: A Hidden Oasis

One of the more peaceful stops, Payong-Payong Beach, offers powdery white sands and shallow waters, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Surrounded by lush greenery and limestone cliffs, it’s a tranquil spot that allows travelers to unwind away from crowds. Many reviewers appreciated the quiet atmosphere, seeing it as a perfect escape to more private scenery.

The Secret Lagoon: A True Treasure

The Secret Lagoon is the highlight for many—hidden behind a small opening in a limestone wall, it evokes a sense of discovery. Once inside, you’re greeted with secluded waters surrounded by steep cliffs, creating a feeling of entering a different world. Swimmers often comment on how beautiful and peaceful it is, making it a memorable “hidden gem.”

Seven Commandos Beach: The Perfect Wrap-up

The final stop is Seven Commandos Beach, famous for its white sands, coconut palms, and inviting waters. Here, you can snorkel, relax, or enjoy a cold drink from the small beach bars. It’s a favorite for capturing classic tropical beach photos and unwinding after a busy day of exploring.

The Practicalities: What to Know Before You Go

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price of $44.95 covers entrance fees to lagoons and the environmental fee (valid for 14 days), a lunch on the beach, and round-trip pickup service within El Nido town. However, activities like kayaking (P400) and snorkel masks (P100) are extras, so consider bringing your own gear or budgeting for those costs.

Group Size and Timing

With a maximum of 50 travelers, the group remains manageable without feeling crowded. The start time at 9:00 am allows for a full day of exploring, and the stops are well-paced, averaging around 1.5 hours each. This timing ensures you get enough time at each spot without feeling hurried, but be prepared for a long day on the water.

Accessibility and Considerations

Several reviews mention that walking in the water and climbing ladders are part of the experience. If mobility is an issue, it’s worth noting that guides are helpful but may not be able to assist with all physical challenges. Small children might also need extra attention regarding life jackets and water entry.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

El Nido’s weather can vary; the tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’re offered a different date or a full refund. For peace of mind, booking with the option of free cancellation up to 24 hours before helps mitigate any worries about weather disruptions.

Authentic Feedback: What Travelers Are Saying

Multiple reviewers emphasize the friendly, helpful guides and crew, often mentioning the knowledgeable guides who make the experience more enriching. One guest noted, “The trip itself is enjoyable and the crew was fun and helpful.”

Others appreciated the scenic beauty, with comments like “Beautiful tour and wonderful guides,” and highlighted the stops’ stunning landscapes and peaceful beaches. Some found snorkeling to be less vibrant than expected, describing the fish as small and the reefs not as lively, which is worth considering if underwater exploration is a key interest.

A common theme is the importance of taking waterproof bags and suitable footwear—many found the walking in water and ladder climbing to be manageable but worth preparing for.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers who want to see the most iconic spots without a strenuous schedule. It suits first-time visitors looking for a well-rounded introduction to El Nido’s lagoons and beaches. If you enjoy light adventure like kayaking and snorkeling but don’t want to spend extra on private tours, this is a solid choice.

However, if you’re seeking highly vibrant reefs or extensive snorkeling, you might find the underwater life somewhat subdued. Also, travelers with mobility challenges should assess the physical demands, especially walking in shallow waters or climbing ladders.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

El Nido Tour A is a value-packed day that offers an excellent introduction to the region’s natural beauty. The combination of lagoons, beaches, and hidden spots ensures a diverse experience, perfect for capturing stunning photos and enjoying serene moments. The friendly guides and smoothly run schedule make it a reliable choice for most travelers.

The additional costs for activities may deter some, but the core experience remains satisfying. The lunch on the beach adds a lovely touch of relaxation, rounding out a day full of scenic marvels and light adventure.

If your goal is to see the best of El Nido with a manageable budget and a friendly group, this tour fits the bill nicely. It’s especially suitable for those who value authentic scenery and a well-organized itinerary.

FAQ

Does the tour include transportation from my hotel?
Yes, pickup is offered within El Nido town, making it convenient to start your day.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, from around 9:00 am to late afternoon.

Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch on the beach is provided, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy fresh food amid scenic surroundings.

Can I rent snorkeling gear?
Snorkel masks are available for P100 per set, but bringing your own might be more comfortable.

What activities cost extra?
Kayaking (P400 per kayak) and snorkeling masks are not included in the base price and are paid separately.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It can be, but note that walking in water and climbing ladders might require supervision for small children or those with mobility issues.

What’s the best way to prepare?
Bring waterproof bags, suitable footwear, and sunscreen. Be ready for a full day on the water.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, providing peace of mind.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, a maximum of 50 travelers ensures a comfortable experience without overcrowding.

In all, El Nido Group Tour A with Beach Lunch delivers a solid, well-balanced day of natural beauty, light adventure, and relaxed beach time—an excellent way to see the highlights of this tropical paradise.