EL NIDO & BACUIT BAY
El Nido and its spectacular Bacuit Bay form the crown jewel of Palawan, renowned globally for its dramatic limestone karst islands, secret lagoons, and pristine white-sand beaches. This protected seascape, part of the Coral Triangle, is a marine sanctuary of unparalleled biodiversity.
The region is famous for the towering, 250-million-year-old sheer cliffs that plunge into turquoise waters. It offers a perfect blend of high-octane adventure and secluded, tranquil relaxation across its dozens of idyllic islands.
Most Popular Attractions
Iconic Lagoons & Waterways (Best for Kayaking & Unique Scenery)
Big Lagoon (Miniloc Island): Kayak through a narrow channel to an expansive lagoon of emerald water framed by towering karst cliffs.
Small Lagoon (Miniloc Island): Access this secluded, tranquil cove by swimming or kayaking through a small hole in the limestone wall.
Secret Lagoon (Miniloc Island): A small, hidden pool accessible through a small crevice, revealing a pocket of calm, clear water.
Cadlao Lagoon (Cadlao Island, pronounced Kad-la-ow): A large, peaceful lagoon offering stunning views of the bay’s largest island, ideal for a quiet swim.
Snake Island (Vigan Island): Famous for its unique, S-shaped white sandbar that connects the islet to the mainland during low tide.
Secret Beaches & Hidden Coves (Best for Relaxation & Seclusion)
Hidden Beach (Matinloc Island, pronounced Mah-teen-lok): A pocket of white sand only reachable by swimming through a narrow gap between imposing cliffs.
Secret Beach (Matinloc Island): Another stunning, enclosed beach, rumored to have inspired the novel The Beach, found behind a rock wall.
Seven Commandos Beach (Mainland): A long stretch of white sand with a backdrop of swaying coconut palms and a small beach bar.
Nacpan Beach (Mainland, pronounced Nak-pahn): Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines, featuring four kilometers of powdery sand and gentle waters.
Las Cabañas Beach (Marimegmeg Beach): Known as one of the best spots on the mainland to watch the incredible sunset over Bacuit Bay.
Entalula Island (pronounced En-tah-loo-lah): Features a pristine stretch of private white-sand beach and excellent snorkeling just offshore.
Karst Islands & Marine Stops (Best for Snorkeling & Sightseeing)
Helicopter Island (Dilumacad Island): Named for its distinct shape, it offers fantastic snorkeling and diving along its golden-sand beaches.
Shimizu Island (pronounced Shee-mee-zoo): A small island with a great beach and some of the best coral reefs and marine life for snorkeling.
Matinloc Shrine: An abandoned shrine and spiritual oasis on Matinloc Island, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the bay.
Pinagbuyutan Island (pronounced Pee-nag-boo-yoo-tan): A dramatic, steep-sided island often described as one of the most picturesque in the bay.
Cudugnon Cave: A small cave system historically used as a hideout by Japanese soldiers during WWII and accessible on Tour B.
Cathedral Cave: A stunning rock formation named for its towering open chamber and high ceiling, which resembles a cathedral interior.
Star Beach (Tapiutan Island): Known for its crystal-clear waters, a drop-off reef, and abundance of starfish.
Talisay Beach: A common stop on Tour C with a small, quiet cove and good swimming conditions.
Coastal & Mainland Gems (Non-Boat Access & Local Exploration)
Taraw Cliff Canopy Walk: A safe, via ferrata-style path to a lookout point offering stunning, panoramic views of El Nido town and Bacuit Bay.
Duli Beach: A quieter, less-developed beach on the northern coast known for surfing during the season and a more relaxed, bohemian vibe.
El Nido Town Proper: The main hub for dining, souvenir shopping, and where all island-hopping tours depart from.
Activities & Experiences
Go Island Hopping on Tour A: The Lagoons & Beaches: This is the quintessential El Nido experience. Explore the emerald waters of the Big Lagoon (must-kayak), paddle into the serene Small Lagoon, and relax on Seven Commandos Beach.
Explore Hidden Shores on Tour C: The Shrines & Hidden Beaches: Visit Helicopter Island (Dilu-ma-kad), find the secluded Secret Beach (accessed via a small swim-through), and see the abandoned Matinloc Shrine.
Discover Caves and Coves on Tour B: Paddle into the historic Cudugnon Cave and explore the unique sandbar of Snake Island (Vigan Island), which connects two land masses at low tide.
Hike the Taraw Cliff Canopy Walk: For the most breathtaking panoramic view of El Nido town and Bacuit Bay, take the safer, guided route with suspension bridges and metal stairs to the viewpoint.
Relax at Nacpan Beach: Take a tricycle or motorbike north to this 4-kilometer stretch of pristine golden sand, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Kayaking in Cadlao Lagoon: Rent a kayak from El Nido town and paddle across to the serene, quieter Cadlao Lagoon (part of Tour D) for a peaceful experience away from the main tour crowds.
Learn to Scuba Dive or Snorkel: The bay is a marine sanctuary and part of the Coral Triangle. Go for a Discover Scuba Dive or snorkel at spots like South Miniloc to see vibrant coral gardens and sea turtles.
Ride the Las Cabanas Zipline: Enjoy a thrilling ride that connects the mainland to a small island at Las Cabanas (Marimegmeg Beach), offering stunning aerial views of the coastline. Best experienced near sunset.
Take a Filipino Cooking Class: Learn to prepare classic dishes like Adobo (marinated meat) or Sinigang (sour soup) from local chefs, getting hands-on experience with the region’s flavors.
Catch the Sunset at Corong-Corong Beach: Unlike the main town beach, Corong-Corong offers unobstructed views of the sunset over Bacuit Bay. It’s lined with great restaurants and bars.
Hunt for Waterfalls: Take a trip to Nagkalit-Kalit Falls (Nag-ka-lit, Nag-ka-lit) or Bulalacao Falls, often requiring a short hike through lush jungle for a refreshing freshwater swim.
Local Tips & Transport
Getting Around Town: The primary mode of transportation for short distances (El Nido Town Proper to Corong-Corong Beach or Las Cabanas) is the Tricycle (a motorcycle with a sidecar). Fares are generally fixed but confirm the price before you ride. Expect to pay around $2.60 to $5.20 USD (₱150-₱300) for common routes.
Exploring the Mainland: For destinations like Nacpan Beach or the waterfalls, a motorbike rental (approx. $8.70 – $10.50 USD / ₱500-₱600 per day) offers the most freedom. Be cautious, as some roads can be rough and unpaved, especially after rain.
Arriving to El Nido:
- Direct Flight (Recommended): The fastest way is to fly directly to El Nido Airport (ENI) via AirSwift from Manila, Cebu, or Caticlan. This is the most expensive but most convenient option.
- Puerto Princesa to El Nido: The budget-friendly route is to fly to Puerto Princesa (PPS), then take a shared air-conditioned van for the 5-6 hour drive to El Nido (approx. $14-16 USD / ₱800-₱900 per person).
Tour Logistics & Crowds: The four main island-hopping routes (A, B, C, D) are the best way to see Bacuit Bay. To avoid peak crowds, ask your boat captain to do the reverse tour (visiting the last stop first) or consider hiring a private boat to customize your departure time.
Environmental Fee: All visitors must pay a one-time Eco-Tourism Development Fee (ETDF) of $3.50 USD (₱200) which is valid for 10 days and is often required to be paid before starting any tour. Keep the receipt.
Cash is King: While some hotels and the El Nido Boutique & Art Café may accept credit cards, most local restaurants, tricycle drivers, and small shops operate on cash (Philippine Peso, ₱). The single main ATM in town can be unreliable, so withdraw a good amount of cash in Puerto Princesa or upon arrival.
Filipino Cuisine: Don’t miss trying local Filipino food! Look for a Karenderya (small local eatery) for affordable, authentic home-cooked meals. Key dishes include:
- Lechon: Whole roasted pig with incredibly crispy skin.
- Kinilaw: The Filipino version of ceviche, typically made with raw fish cured in vinegar and chili.
- Boodle Fight: A traditional Filipino feast where food is spread out on a banana leaf and eaten with your hands (often available at restaurants).
Island Essentials: When going on an island tour, remember to bring: sunscreen, aqua shoes (essential for navigating rocky lagoons), a dry bag (for electronics), and plenty of drinking water. Most tours provide lunch.
Language: The local language is Tagalog and Cuyonon, but English is widely spoken in the tourism industry. Learning a few Filipino phrases will be appreciated:
- Salamat (Sa-lah-mat): Thank you
- Maganda (Ma-gan-da): Beautiful
- Walang anuman (Wa-lang ah-nu-man): You’re welcome
Top Restaurants
Maa’s Grill [$5-$15] – (Pronounced: Mah-ahs) A simple, highly-regarded dampa-style restaurant in town where you choose fresh seafood or meat to be grilled or cooked to your liking.
Cusina Charitos [$8-$18] – A cozy, homely spot known for serving some of the best authentic Filipino flavors in a relaxed setting, a true local favorite.
Tambok’s El Nido [$8-$18] – Located in Lio, this spot serves delectable Southern Filipino comfort food like Visayan chicken inasal (grilled chicken) and buko pansit (coconut noodles).
Giovan’z Beef Stew Hauz and Grill [$5-$12] – A very popular and authentic spot among locals for its rich, outrageously tasty noodle soup, bulalo (beef knuckle soup), and crocodile sisig.
BoodleFight Restaurant & Bar [$5-$15] – Offers the unique, traditional Filipino communal eating experience (boodle fight) where food is laid out on a banana leaf and eaten by hand—great for groups.
Kina Pards Resto-Bar [$8-$18] – A typical roadside kambingan specializing in goat meat dishes like goat curry and papaitan (sour goat innards soup), but also serves excellent sizzling bulalo.
Pala One Chon [$10-$25] – Specializes in Lechon (whole roasted pig), offering the classic crispy skin and tender meat, as well as dishes like Lechon Sinigang.
Angel Wish [$5-$15] – A simple, beachfront diner offering fresh, affordable, dampa-style seafood where you pick your catch to be cooked as you like.
Happy Home Restaurant [$5-$15] – A favorite for affordable and delicious local meals, including fish curry and fresh mango smoothies, though food service can be slow.
Bulalo Plaza [$5-$15] – A simple, roadside local restaurant known for serving traditional, hearty Filipino Bulalo (beef shank soup).
Sausage With Benefits [$5-$10] – An affordable spot for breakfast or a quick meal, known for its tasty sausages and burgers served with homemade baguette and sauces.
Kusina ni Maya [$12-$25] – Often considered a higher-end Filipino dining experience in town, offering delicious, well-prepared local dishes and great service.
Karenderya Stalls (Town Proper) [$2-$5] – Though not a single restaurant, exploring the various karenderyas (small, local food stalls) offers the cheapest and most authentic daily Filipino home-cooked meals.
Trattoria Altrove [$15-$30] – Widely considered to have the best wood-fired brick-oven pizza in El Nido, also serving authentic Italian pasta; expect a queue, but it’s worth the wait.
Big Bad Thai Restaurant [$10-$25] – Extremely popular for its authentic and flavorful Thai cuisine, including must-try Pad Thai, Tom Yum, and Massaman Curry, in a lively setting.
Happiness Beach Bar [$10-$25] – A laid-back, “hipster” beachfront bar specializing in authentic Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine like pita falafel, hummus, and a happiness salad.
Bella Vita El Nido [$15-$35] – Located on Corong-Corong Beach, it’s a perfect sunset spot for enjoying quality Italian food, especially their brick-oven pizzas and creamy pasta.
Osaka Castle El Nido [$15-$30] – A surprisingly great Japanese spot serving delicious ramen, fresh and premium-quality sushi/sashimi, and various noodle and katsu dishes.
No Mames [$12-$25] – Serves excellent Mexican-style cuisine including burritos, tacos, and chili con carne in a laid-back, playful setting in the Corong-Corong area.
Gandhi’s Revenge [$10-$25] – A roadside restaurant near Corong-Corong serving authentic, homemade Indian food with a variety of rich and flavorful curry dishes.
La Plage Restaurant [$20-$40] – Located in Corong-Corong, this sunset bar and restaurant offers a unique fusion of French and Asian flavors with stunning vistas.
Gorgonzola Pizza & Pasta [$15-$30] – A well-regarded spot for handcrafted Italian culinary masterpieces beyond just pizza, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Biryani Kitchen [$10-$20] – A delightful and hidden gem specializing in authentic Indian biryani, offering flavorful chicken and mutton options.
Odessa Mama Cafe and Boodmo Bakery [$8-$18] – A Ukrainian-inspired spot that provides a unique global flavor, serving hearty, comforting dishes like pierogies and other baked goods.
Ver De [$8-$18] – A fantastic option for those seeking something fresh and healthy, specializing in healthy, vibrant, and flavor-packed vegan and plant-based cuisine.
The Pangolin [$15-$30] – Known for its artfully crafted cocktails and daily DJ sets, this spot in Town Square also offers a selection of delicious food to pair with the nightlife.
El Nido Boutique Artcafe [$12-$25] – An institution in El Nido, known for its eco-friendly approach, homemade comfort food, and a mix of Filipino and international dishes, often with live music.
Fuego Burgers [$8-$18] – Located in Town Square, known for its juicy, flavorful signature burgers and a cozy ambiance.
Hama Coffee El Nido [$5-$15] – Considered one of the best cafes, offering exceptional brews and a relaxed lounge environment, often praised for being a peaceful spot.
Gusto Gelato & Bistro [$5-$15] – The go-to spot for homemade Italian gelato, crepes, waffles, and a great place to start your day with a delicious breakfast.
Republica Sunset Bar [$15-$30] – Perched on a hillside near Lugadia Beach, offering unobstructed, panoramic sunset views over Bacuit Bay with traditional Spanish tapas and paellas.
AP Kala Beach Bar [$20-$40] – Tucked along the water in Town Square, considered one of the nicer restaurants for enjoying sunset views and a varied menu.
Scape Skydeck El Nido [$25-$50] – A rooftop bar and restaurant atop Cuna Hotel, offering cool balcony-side tables with majestic sunset views and specialty dishes like Peppered Chops.
The Nesting Table (The Birdhouse) [$15-$30] – Requires a 10-15 minute trek, but the reward is gorgeous views, a homey ambiance, and a menu of international and Asian dishes.
Cadlao Restaurant [$25-$45] – Located at Cadlao Resort on Caalan Beach, offering a tranquil seaside setting with great sea views and a menu of traditional Filipino, seafood, and international dishes.
Jinjer Restaurant (by Cadlao Resort) [$20-$40] – Offers a fusion of local and international cuisine with the tranquil backdrop of the ocean waves at Caalan Beach.
Henri’s El Nido [$25-$50] – Perched on a hill with panoramic views of the water and sunsets, this multi-level property offers a fresh perspective on fine-casual dining.
Angkla Beach Club [$25-$50] – A more luxurious touch, perfect for lounging by the water with a drink and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and quality dining.
Piece Of Sky El Nido [$15-$35] – Known as the restaurant with the “Best View in El Nido,” serving Filipino and international dishes alongside handcrafted cocktails.
Lihim Resorts – The Restaurant [$30-$60] – Located in a luxury resort, this fine-dining spot offers farm-to-table specials and heritage recipes, with main dishes like Flank Steak and Crispy Skin Chicken.
The Nest at El Nido Resorts [$50-$80] – The premier fine dining option within the resorts (e.g., El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island), offering exquisite dining experiences with curated menus and unparalleled bay views.
Romantic Beach Dinner (various providers) [$100-$300/couple] – Many local operators and resorts offer a high-end, bespoke romantic dinner experience on a secluded beach with a menu prepared by a gourmet chef.
Mi Corazon El Nido (at Lihim Resorts) [$30-$50] – Another culinary experience within Lihim Resorts, often specializing in unique, high-quality offerings like curated wine pairings and tasting menus.
The Town Square Area Restaurants [$20-$40] – While not strictly “fine dining,” several restaurants in the Town Square district offer a more upscale ambiance, service, and modern presentation of dishes.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Republica Sunset Bar: Located on a cliffside in Corong-Corong Beach, this intimate resto-bar is considered one of the prime locations for watching the stunning sunset over Bacuit Bay while sipping on a cocktail or cold drink.
SIP Sunset Lounge: A top-rated bar in Corong-Corong, popular for its delicious, well-crafted cocktails and chill-out ambiance, making it a favorite for travelers looking to relax after a day of island hopping.
The Pangolin Cocktail Bar: A small, wooden tiki-style bar with a lively atmosphere, often packed with travelers. Located on the first floor overlooking the main street of El Nido Town, it’s known for its panoramic street view and strong cocktails.
Happiness Beach Bar: Found right on the beachfront of El Nido Town, this spot offers a unique blend of Middle Eastern-influenced food and a relaxed atmosphere that turns into a vibrant nightlife hub once the sun goes down.
Cloud 9 Rooftop Bar: Situated above a diving center in El Nido Town, this spot offers some of the most breathtaking views of the town and Bacuit Bay, perfect for enjoying a classic cocktail with a stunning backdrop.
The Rooftop Bar: With its cool design and interior made from bamboo and wood, this unique three-story “treehouse” bar in El Nido Town offers a unique setting for drinks and a good atmosphere.
Maremegmeg Beach Bar: Located directly on the sand of Maremegmeg Beach (sometimes called Las Cabañas Beach), this tiki-style bar is an ideal spot for sunset cocktails and has a friendly staff and top-notch drinks.
El Nido Boutique & Artcafé: More than just a café and art gallery in the heart of El Nido Town, its open-air setting provides a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere for enjoying a selection of drinks and socializing in the evening.
La Plage Restaurant & Beach Bar: A charming European-inspired restaurant and bar located right on Corong-Corong Beach, providing a sophisticated, tranquil ambiance for a beachside cocktail.
Lion’s Sunset Lounge: Located at the end of the POPS District in Corong-Corong, this restobar offers fantastic views of Bacuit Bay and is a great option for a sunset drink in a relaxed setting.
Coco Beach Bar: A classic beachfront spot in El Nido Town for cocktails and beer, complete with games like darts and ping-pong, making it a fun and social destination.
Manille Beach Bar (Lio Beach): Located in the slightly more upscale Lio Beach development outside of the main town, this spot is run by a skilled mixologist and is excellent for day drinking and enjoying the swimmable beach.
The Beach Shack: Nestled along the beautiful Las Cabañas Beach (part of Maremegmeg), this is a perfect spot for pre-sunset beers and cocktails, known for its astounding seascape view.
SAVA Beach Bar: A highly popular and vibrant beachfront bar in El Nido Town known for its great cocktails and transforming into a lively club with live DJs and dance music later at night. It often features electronic and house music.
Pukka Bar (Pronunciation: Poo-kah): Located on Hama Street right on the beach in El Nido Town, this is the quintessential late-night spot. It starts the evening with reggae but transitions to EDM and dance music, boasting a big dance floor and a lively, social atmosphere.
Panorama Beach Club & Resort: Located along Corong-Corong Beach, this spot frequently hosts DJs over sunset and into the night, offering a vibrant beach club feel with a renovated and classic El Nido setting.
Mad Monkey Nacpan Beach Hostel: While located a distance away on Nacpan Beach, this well-known hostel hosts nightly parties, BBQs, and a lively social scene that acts as one of the area’s key party destinations for travelers willing to make the trip.
Amigos Bar: A popular beachfront party spot in El Nido Town known for its cheap drinks, free shots, and energetic atmosphere that encourages “drunk dancing into the morning.”
Tribu Kuridas Bar & Tattoo: A lively spot in El Nido Town that offers drinks and features a tattoo studio, adding a unique, edgy element to the nightlife scene.
Subasko Music Bar and Restaurant: Situated at the end of the main street in El Nido Town, this colorful, casual spot functions as both a restaurant and a lively bar with a buzzing atmosphere, perfect for starting a night out.
Taboo Bar & Lounge: Found in El Nido Town, this spot is known for being a chill place to relax, often offering a good selection of shisha alongside its drinks menu.
The Treehouse Beach Club: One of the newer beach clubs located in the Town Square Heritage District, offering a modern, open-air space for drinks and dancing in a central location.
Ap Kala: Another new beach club in the Town Square Heritage District, it adds to the lively atmosphere of the district with music and an open, social vibe.
Balay Tubay Bistro asta Galeri (Pronunciation: Bah-lie Too-bay): A cultural highlight in El Nido Town, this bar and gallery is known for its live music, often featuring reggae and acoustic sets, providing a lively and artistic ambiance.
OZ El Nido: A unique installation in El Nido Town featuring a pool-top bar, which offers a different setting for cocktails and mingling.