El Nido is renowned not just for its jaw-dropping limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters, but also for its variety of buffet experiences that add flavor to your island adventures. Whether you’re craving a gourmet lunch on a private boat or enjoying a hearty meal during a group tour, El Nido offers options that suit different tastes and budgets. I personally love the Private Linapacan Island Day Trip because it combines exceptional snorkeling, stunning beaches, and a delicious buffet lunch on a nearly deserted island—truly a feast for the senses and the eyes. For those on a budget, the Group Tour A with Buffet Lunch offers a fantastic way to see the highlights while enjoying a well-cooked meal without breaking the bank. Check out the Private Linapacan Island Day Trip with Buffet Lunch for a full-day escape.
El Nido stands out for its combination of stunning scenery and tasty food options on the water. The variety of tours listed below each offer unique experiences, from private trips to shared adventures, all with a delicious buffet included. Read on to find the best buffet experience for your style of travel.
Quick Overview
This guide features a selection of seven top buffet experiences in El Nido, ranging from luxurious private island trips to popular group tours. Whether you want a full-day private adventure, a quick group tour with excellent value, or specialized island hopping with buffet lunch, there’s something for all. For a more exclusive experience, the Private Island Hopping Tours (Tour C, Tour A) offer tailored trips with stunning scenery and personalized service. The group tours (Tour A, Tour C) are ideal for travelers seeking a good balance between cost and experience, with lively atmospheres and abundant sightseeing. Finally, the shared tours (Tour C shared, Tour A share) cater to budget-conscious travelers who want to meet others while enjoying tasty meals.
1. Private Linapacan Island Day Trip with Buffet Lunch
At number 1, the Private Linapacan Island Day Trip offers a rare chance to enjoy unspoiled beaches, vibrant snorkel spots, and a buffet lunch on a remote island. This full-day adventure lasts about 8 to 9 hours, and the scenery alone makes it worth the splurge. The itinerary includes stops at pristine Maosanon Island with powdery white sand and clear waters, the uninhabited Magransing Island, and Cobra Island, famous for local legends. The highlight is the buffet lunch on Linapacan, served after some of the best snorkeling in Palawan, where you’ll see coral gardens and schools of fish. The water here is famously clear, making every snorkel a visual feast. Guests rave about the crew’s attentive service and delicious food, with one reviewer saying, “The lunch was delicious, and snorkeling was superb.” This trip is perfect for travelers seeking privacy, adventure, and a top-tier meal amid untouched nature.
Bottom Line: If you’re after an exclusive day with fantastic snorkeling, stunning scenery, and a quality buffet, this private trip is hard to beat.
2. El Nido Tour A – Group w/ Buffet Lunch
Tour A is arguably the most famous group tour in El Nido, offering a 7-8 hour experience that hits all the highlights. For around $44.95, you visit Big Lagoon, where the narrow waterways and towering limestone cliffs are stunning, and Shimizu Island, where you can snorkel with turtles and enjoy a delicious buffet lunch. The tour also includes Payong-Payong Beach, known for its calm, shallow waters, and the Secret Lagoon, accessible only through a small cave—a real adventure. The buffet lunch is simple but tasty, with options designed to satisfy tired travelers after some water activities. Reviewers love the picturesque surroundings and say, “The location and view are incredible,” while others appreciate the value, noting it’s a great way to see El Nido on a budget. The tour is well-suited for those who want a classic island-hopping experience with a reliable lunch included.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a fun, scenic, and affordable way to explore El Nido’s most famous spots with a satisfying meal.
3. El Nido Full Day Tour C with Buffet Lunch
Tour C offers a comprehensive day of island hopping with stops at Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Talisay Beach, and Dilumacad Island. For around $44.95, this tour includes a buffet lunch after visiting the secluded Secret Beach, often cited as the highlight for its peaceful setting and spectacular limestone formations. The tour is a favorite for its diverse itinerary and stunning scenery, with reviews mentioning “great fun and adventure” and praise for the homemade buffet served on the beach. The stops are well-paced, with enough time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. The lunch is locally prepared, offering a genuine taste of Palawan’s flavors. If you love a full-day adventure with plenty of photo ops and water activities, this tour hits the spot.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a complete, scenic day with a satisfying buffet, perfect for active travelers.
4. El Nido: Shared Island Hopping Tour C with Buffet Lunch
At number 4, this shared tour offers a budget-friendly way to experience El Nido’s top spots, including Secret Beach, Helicopter Island, and Talisay Beach. Priced at just $29 per person, it’s ideal for travelers who want the essentials without the private tour premium. The tour includes snorkeling, sightseeing, and a buffet lunch, but reviews note that organization can sometimes be inconsistent, with delays and crowded conditions. Still, many appreciate the vibrant marine life and scenic stops. It’s a great option if you’re open to a more lively, social atmosphere and don’t mind the occasional crowd.
Bottom Line: An affordable, lively way to see the highlights, best suited for flexible travelers who prioritize value over exclusivity.
5. EL NIDO: Sharing/Joiner Island Hopping Tour A w/BUFFET LUNCH
This shared tour focuses on experiencing some of El Nido’s most iconic spots like Big Lagoon, Seven Commandos Beach, and Shimizu Island, with a buffet lunch included. For about $22 per person, you get a full 8-hour tour that combines water activities, sightseeing, and relaxing beaches. Travelers report enjoying the kayaking in Big Lagoon and the snorkeling opportunities, with many saying, “The lunch was good, and the scenery breathtaking.” It’s well-suited for budget travelers who want a fun day out with some social interaction. Keep in mind, the tour can get crowded, and the schedule might be less flexible.
Bottom Line: An excellent budget pick for travelers wanting to tick off key sights with a decent meal and chance to meet others.
6. EL NIDO: Private Island Hopping Tour C w/BUFFET LUNCH
Number 6 features a private version of Tour C, offering a more personalized experience with a dedicated guide and flexible itinerary. For about $139, this tour includes stops at Helicopter Island, Talisay Beach, Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, and Secret Beach, all with delicious buffet lunch on board. The review mentions “Raphael and the crew were epic,” emphasizing the personalized service and attention to detail. The flexibility means you can spend more time at your favorite spots and less at the crowds. It’s perfect for couples or small groups seeking tranquility and tailored adventures.
Bottom Line: A premium option for travelers seeking privacy, flexibility, and a high level of service, with the added bonus of a tasty buffet.
7. EL NIDO: Private Island Hopping Tour A with BUFFET LUNCH
Finally, the private Tour A combines the best parts of the classic route with the comfort of a personalized trip. It includes Seven Commandos Beach, Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Secret Lagoon, with a buffet lunch served in a scenic setting. Reviewers mention “The scenery and food were fantastic,” noting that this trip is ideal for travelers wanting to avoid crowds while still seeing the highlights. The tour offers about 8 hours of personalized exploration, making it excellent for couples or small groups.
Bottom Line: For those who want a private, relaxed tour with great scenery and delicious food, this private option is a top-tier choice.
How to Choose the Best Buffet Experience in El Nido
Picking the right tour depends on your budget, interests, and comfort level. If you prefer privacy and personalized service, the Private Island Hopping Tours (Tour C, Tour A) are excellent, with tailored itineraries and quality buffets. For those who want to explore the highlights without splurging, the group tours (Tour A, Tour C) give you a taste of everything at a much lower price, though they tend to be more crowded. The shared options (Tour C shared, Tour A share) are best for travelers on a tight budget who enjoy social atmospheres.
Consider the activity level you desire—some tours are more active with kayaking and snorkeling, while others focus on scenic relaxation. Also, think about how much time you want to spend on each spot and whether you prefer a full-day or half-day experience. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your spot and ensure you get the tour that best fits your needs.
In summary, El Nido offers a remarkable array of buffet experiences, from exclusive private trips to lively group tours. For romantic couples or small groups willing to pay a bit more, the Private Island Hopping Tours (Tour C) are unbeatable. Budget travelers will find plenty of value in the shared tours, which still showcase the region’s breathtaking scenery and include satisfying meals. Whatever your choice, these tours make the most of your time in this stunning part of the Philippines—and ensure your belly is as happy as your eyes. Book early, and enjoy every delicious, scenic moment.