El Nido Private Tour A: Best Island Hopping

Exploring El Nido Private Tour A: The Best Island Hopping Experience

Imagine spending a full day exploring some of the most breathtaking spots in the Philippines, all in the comfort of a private boat. For around $337 per group (up to three people), this El Nido Private Tour A promises a carefully curated journey through stunning lagoons, pristine beaches, and vibrant reefs. Starting from Payong-Payong Beach, this tour spans approximately 8 hours, packed with opportunities to snorkel, kayak, and simply soak up the natural beauty.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances adventure with moments of peace—whether paddling through crystal-clear waters or relaxing on powdery sands. The Big and Small Lagoons give you a chance to marvel at towering limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, while the visit to Shimizu Island offers fantastic snorkeling amid lively marine life. The calm, less crowded Payong-Payong Beach is perfect for unwinding, and the Secret Lagoon delivers a quiet thrill with its hidden entrance behind rocks. Plus, ending at Seven Commandos Beach offers a laid-back spot to reflect on the day’s highlights.

One thing to consider is that all the fees for lagoons and the environmental fee are paid separately in cash, so travelers should come prepared. Also, if you’re prone to motion sickness, knowing the boat ride can be bumpy at times might influence your packing list. This tour suits travelers who crave a personalized, flexible way to experience El Nido’s natural wonders—especially if you’re traveling with a small group or a partner wanting an intimate adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private and Flexible: Tailored for up to three people, with the ability to skip the crowds.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Includes top lagoons, beaches, and snorkeling spots.
• All-day experience: About 8 hours of island hopping with plenty of chances to relax or explore.
• Additional costs: Fees for lagoons and snorkeling gear are paid separately.
• Focus on natural beauty: Highlights include limestone cliffs, crystal waters, and hidden lagoons.
• Weather dependence: Bad weather can lead to cancellations, so flexibility is key.

Why This Tour Stands Out

El Nido Private Tour A truly offers an immersive experience in the area’s famously dramatic scenery. Unlike large group tours, the private nature means you can enjoy the day at your own pace, making it ideal for couples, families, or small groups who want the freedom to linger or skip certain spots. The tour is led by a guide—Abraham from Abraham Tours Philippines—who is there to ensure you get the most out of every stop.

The day begins with the famous Big and Small Lagoons. We loved how these lagoons are framed by towering limestone formations, creating almost surreal, postcard-perfect scenery. The clear waters, inviting for swimming, are surrounded by cliffs that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a hidden world. It’s worth noting that there is a lagoon fee of 200 PHP per person, payable in cash, which adds to the practical aspect of planning.

Next, the visit to Shimizu Island offers some of the best snorkeling in the area. The guide might point out vibrant coral reefs and schools of fish, and you’ll appreciate how the waters are so transparent that even from the boat you can see the colorful marine life below. A review mentioned, “The snorkeling here was the highlight, with so many fish and coral visible just beneath us.” Rental gear is available for a small fee if you don’t bring your own.

The Payong-Payong Beach stop is a personal favorite for its calm, white sands and lack of crowds. It’s perfect for a few quiet moments, sunbathing or splashing around without the noise of busy beaches. The Secret Lagoon is a standout for many travelers—hidden behind rocks and only accessible through a small opening, it offers a sense of discovery and seclusion. As one reviewer noted, “Finding the entrance was a little adventure in itself, and the lagoon was worth the effort.”

The final stop at Seven Commandos Beach is a mellow way to wind down. Here, you can relax, take photos, or swim in the gentle waters before heading back. The overall journey is well-paced, with about an hour at each key location, giving enough time to enjoy without feeling rushed.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Start from El Nido: The tour begins with pickup within the town, making logistics simple if you’re based locally. The guide will confirm the exact start time, which can vary depending on the day’s arrangements.

Big and Small Lagoons: These iconic spots are the heart of the tour. Expect to spend about an hour swimming or kayaking in these calm waters framed by dramatic limestone formations. The cliffs create natural tunnels and caves that add to the enchantment, perfect for photos or just soaking in the scenery.

Shimizu Island: An hour here allows ample snorkeling. The marine ecosystem is lively, with colorful fish and coral reefs. The shallow waters make it accessible for all skill levels, and the guide can give tips to beginners.

Beach Time at Payong-Payong: After snorkeling, you’ll have a full hour to relax on the sand. It’s a quiet, less-developed area that feels like a private retreat—ideal for picnics or just unwinding.

Secret Lagoon: Hidden behind rocks, this lagoon offers a quiet, intimate setting. Access involves a little climb and ducking through a small opening—an adventure that adds to the fun. Once inside, the water is calm and perfect for swimming or wading.

Seven Commandos Beach: The final hour is for free time. You might choose to lounge on the sand, take a swim, or explore the nearby surroundings. The location is well-loved for its laid-back vibe and scenic views.

Return to El Nido: The boat drops you back at the port, usually in the late afternoon, with memories of a day filled with natural beauty.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price covers the boat, guide, life vests, and a packed lunch—a nice touch that simplifies the day. However, there are some extra costs to keep in mind:

• Lagoons Fee: 200 PHP per person, payable in cash
• Environmental Fee: 400 PHP per person if within 5 days of booking, also cash
• Snorkeling gear: Available to rent for 100 PHP
• Kayak rental: 300 PHP for two persons
• Drinks and towels: Not included, so bring your own if desired

These additional costs can add up, so budgeting around 500 PHP extra per person is sensible, especially if you plan to snorkel or kayak.

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Practical Tips for Booking and Preparing

Choosing this private tour is a smart move if you value flexibility and personalized attention. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers peace of mind. Remember to bring essentials like sunscreen, a sun hat, swimwear, water, insect repellent, and cash for the additional fees.

Since bad weather can result in cancellations, keeping an eye on the forecast is wise. The tour is operated in English, making communication straightforward. Pickup is limited to within El Nido town—so if you’re staying outside the area, arrangements might need to be made.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This is ideal for travelers seeking a customized, intimate experience of El Nido’s most beautiful sites. Small groups or couples will appreciate the flexibility and personal touch. If you prefer guided tours with a focus on scenic beauty and snorkeling, this tour hits the mark. It’s also great for those who want to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more relaxed pace.

The Sum Up

El Nido Private Tour A offers a thoughtfully crafted way to see some of the most stunning sights in the area, all while enjoying the comfort of a private boat and guide. With stops at iconic lagoons, hidden caves, and peaceful beaches, it’s a chance to really connect with nature in a setting that feels both exclusive and accessible. The combination of iconic scenery, opportunities for snorkeling and swimming, and the flexibility of a private tour makes this a standout choice for small groups or couples.

The experience delivers a balance of adventure and relaxation, perfect for those who want to avoid crowded tours and enjoy the natural splendor at their own pace. While additional fees and weather considerations require some planning, the overall value of this tour—considering the personalized service and memorable sights—is hard to beat. It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize quality, authentic experiences, and stunning views over a cookie-cutter package.

FAQ

What locations are visited on this tour? The tour includes the Big and Small Lagoons, Shimizu Island, Payong-Payong Beach, the Secret Lagoon, and Seven Commandos Beach.

How long does the tour last? The full experience runs about 8 hours, with scheduled stops that give you plenty of time to explore, swim, or relax.

Is the tour private? Yes, it’s designed for a private group of up to three people, offering a more personalized experience.

What’s the cost for additional activities? Snorkeling gear can be rented for 100 PHP, and kayaks for 300 PHP for two. Lagoon and environmental fees are paid separately in cash.

Are meals included? A packed lunch is provided, but drinks and towels are not included.

Do I need to bring cash? Yes, for additional fees, rentals, and tips. It’s recommended to carry some extra cash for unforeseen expenses.

What should I bring? Essentials include a sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, water, insect repellent, and a towel.

What happens if the weather is bad? Bad weather may lead to cancellation, at the discretion of the Philippine Coast Guard, so flexibility is recommended.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind when planning your trip.

In summary, if you’re after a personalized, scenic, and relaxing experience in El Nido, this private island-hopping tour ticks all the boxes. It’s perfect for small groups or couples who want to see the lagoons, beaches, and underwater ecosystems without the hassle of large crowds. With attention to detail, a knowledgeable guide, and stunning scenery at every turn, this tour offers great value for anyone eager to discover the best of what El Nido has to offer.

You can check availability for your dates here: