Everyone dreams of a stunning island escape, a chance to unwind and recharge. It could be a peaceful spot with breathtaking views or a gorgeous island where you can hop from one island to another. Either way, El Nido,Palawan is definitely worth a visit, it has everything you could want including the towering limestone cliffs, secluded lagoons, hidden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of white-sand beaches to pick from. When visiting El Nido, similar to Coron, the highlight of the day is undoubtedly island hopping. This exciting and well-loved activity in Palawan offers a full day of exploring various islands and lagoons. Join me as I recount my wonderful island hopping tour in El Nido, Palawan. Perhaps one day you will visit this destination or in the near future, you will gain a deeper understanding of this place.
An island hopping adventure provides a day-long maritime journey to discover several islands and lagoons, with popular activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying leisure time on the beaches usually with buffet lunch and water provided by the tour. You can anticipate sharing ferry boats with your tourmates with also a knowledgeable local guide and opportunities for nature hikes and cave explorations among other things to expect.
During our visit to El Nido two weeks ago, We joined a group tour for this exciting island-hopping adventure. Our itinerary comprised visits to 10-12 different beaches and lagoons over the course of two days. Throughout these two days, we explored approximately twelve lagoons and beaches. Among all the beaches we explored during our day of island hopping, the Secret lagoon and Hidden beach definitely captivated my attention, both have a unique charm that draws you in and their locations are simply breathtaking.
Secret Lagoon
The Secret lagoon in El Nido is a stunning hidden cove that can only be accessed by swimming or kayaking through a narrow gap in a rock wall frequently requiring the assistance of a guide.
Upon your arrival before reaching the secret lagoon, the first sight to welcome you is the white sandy beach encircled by towering limestone cliffs perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming as well.
You will be astonished to witness the stunning beach, and the first thing you will want to do is capture its beauty.
The beach image is incredibly beautiful, featuring limestone cliffs and plants that add to its stunning appearance; however, the concern is that it’s a rocky beach, so wearing beach shoes is essential to protect your feet.
This lagoon is really just a hidden spot. You might not even realize there’s an emerald lagoon when you first go through the entrance. There’s a small hole, a rounded opening that is too narrow for your body to pass through but once you make it inside, you’ll discover a breathtaking secret lagoon beautifully framed by cliffs.
This is the access point leading to the lagoon, it is a tube-shaped opening.
The hole you came through is the only way out. It’s unique because the limestone cliffs around have small openings curve in an intriguing manner, highlighting beauty of nature.
Inside the Secret lagoon, what makes it unique is the journey through a hidden entrance.
The lagoon’s breathtaking natural limestone formation is another feature. Additionally, there are unique rock formations featuring tube-like circular openings that serve as entrances to other areas.
While traveling by boat, we also passed a towering limestone cliff with a hole resembling a cave showcasing the splendor of natural world.
The photo above shows a small hole of limestone cliff where water passes through when the current is strong. I’m curious about how limestone formations can produce such remarkable features.
This beach is distinctive as the dramatic limestone cliff formations showcase a unique and remarkable wonder of nature. Visitors can snorkel in the nearby seas to see colorful fish and coral reefs, which is included on El Nido island-hopping adventure.
A few important points to remember:
Important items to pack include sunscreen, a hat, water-friendly shoes, sunglasses, a towel, and a waterproof bag, with safety precautions like life jackets offered by the guide. Of course cellphone or camera is important. Do keep in mind that the planned schedule may vary due to weather conditions, which is part of the overall experience. Expect to share ferry boats with your fellow travelers.
Make sure to pack essentials like sunscreen, a hat, beach shoes, sunglasses, a towel and a waterproof bag. The guide will provide safety gear like life jackets. Don’t forget to protect your cellphone since water splashes from the boat can get it wet. And of course, having a cellphone or camera is key. Just remember that the schedule might change depending on the weather, which is all part of the adventure!
El Nido is a protected environmental area and local regulations forbid the collection of shells, corals, plants, and other items. This prohibition, which may lead to fines or legal consequences, aims to preserve marine life and protect the ecosystem. Tourists are encouraged to take photographs as souvenirs instead of taking any natural items from the beach.
Everything I have shared here is a valuable experience that you will soon come to enjoy as well. I highly recommend visiting El Nido, Palawan, it offers an unforgettable dream destination.
Thanks for taking the time to read my blog!