El Nido is the jewel of northern Palawan — a maze of towering limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons and secret beaches scattered across the turquoise Bacuit Bay. Island-hopping here feels like sailing through a postcard: paddle into the Big and Small Lagoons, snorkel over coral gardens, and end the day watching the sun melt behind the karst. It's raw, dramatic and unforgettable.
The dry season from December to May brings the calmest seas and best island-hopping; March to May is warmest, while June to November can bring rain and occasional cancelled boat tours.
Tricycles handle town trips, while island tours (A, B, C, D) run by boat — book a day ahead. Fly into Lio Airport (ENI) for the quickest access, or take the 5–6 hour van from Puerto Princesa.
Bring a dry bag and reef-safe sunscreen, book Tour A early in your stay so you can rebook if the weather turns, and consider a private boat to beat the crowds at the lagoons.