El Nido travel guide

Welcome to El Nido

El Nido is on every traveller's Palawan itinerary – with limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons and hidden beaches, it's one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines.

These days it can get busy, but with a little local knowledge, you can still find your own quiet corner of paradise. El Nido means the Nest in Spanish. The name comes from the tiny swiftlets that build nests inside Bacuit Bay's limestone cliffs, once harvested for bird's-nest soup. El Nido Airport (ENI) now operates direct flights with Cebu Pacific from Manila and Cebu. Seats fill fast during holidays, so book early. If flights are full, fly instead to Puerto Princesa or San Vicente, just two hours away.

Where to stay

El Nido has two main areas. The town proper is lively and central, with the port, bars and budget stays. Corong Corong is 10 minutes away and quieter, with sunset views across Bacuit Bay. Tao's El Nido office and expedition departure point are here. Head to Lio Beach – a relaxed stretch with cafés, shops and calm swimming, or book a stay at Taran Beach Club at Duli Beach.

Eat, relax and enjoy the sunset

Catch the sunset with tapas and music at Panorama Beach Club, or sip a cocktail at La Place, just opposite the Tao office, before your evening briefing. For a lazy afternoon, head to Marimegmeg Beach – perfect for swimming and people-watching.

Island-hopping

Bacuit Bay's lagoons and hidden beaches are world famous. Tao Expeditions sails beyond the usual routes exploring remote islands between El Nido and Coron. If you'd like to see the highlights of Bacuit, take a local tour before or after your trip – and head out early to beat the crowds.

Kayak to Cadlao Island

Paddle across the bay from town to Cadlao Island for quiet beaches and a small lagoon. Kayaks are available from Artcafe. Bring lunch, water and plenty of sun protection.

Motorbike to Nacpan and Bulalacao

Rent a motorbike and explore north of town. Trek through the forest to Bulalacao Falls for a cool dip, then ride on to Nacpan Beach, a long golden stretch perfect for swimming or surfing when the waves are calm.

Visit Taran Beach Club at Duli Beach

Continue north to Duli Beach, an unspoiled surf spot with laid-back beach shacks and outstanding sunsets. And it's where our beach club is located.

Dive in Sibaltan

On the east coast, Dive Sibaltan – run by friends of Tao – offers access to pristine reefs and a manta-ray cleaning station. Stay overnight in its simple beach huts.

Visit Darocotan Bay with Tao

Get a taste of Tao without joining a full expedition. Drive to San Fernando for a Tao Farm Day Pass. Enjoy lunch at Kantina, cocktails at the Beach Club and a boat ride to Darocotan Island, the jewel of the bay. Visits are by reservation only.