On the northern tip of Palawan Island, the Harbour of El Nido Town is a dream destination that feels like a secret well-kept by Mother Nature herself!
Picture this: A quaint beachside town with boats gently bobbing in crystal-clear waters, surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs and lush greenery. Sounds like paradise, right? Well, it's real and more available than ever!
How to Get to El Nido
By Air: The quickest way is to fly directly to El Nido Airport (Lio Airport) from Manila or Cebu. Alternatively, you can fly to Puerto Princesa International Airport and take a 5-6 hour van or bus ride to El Nido.
By Sea: Ferries from Coron to El Nido are also available and take about 3-4 hours.
By Land: If you're coming from Puerto Princesa, you can take a van or bus to El Nido, which takes around 5-6 hours.
A Beach Lover's Haven
The first thing you'll notice about El Nido Harbour is its breathtaking beach. Fine, powdery white sand stretches out before you, inviting you to kick off your shoes and let your toes sink in. The water here is a mesmerizing shade of turquoise, so clear that you can see the vibrant marine life darting around even from the shore. It's the perfect spot for a leisurely swim or sunbathing while sipping on a fresh coconut! The beach at the Harbour of El Nido Town is centrally located along the shoreline so the address isn't specific since it's a public beach area, but you can find it easily at the heart of the town! If you are looking to enjoy some of the other amazing beaches, you need to hop on a traditional Filipino bangka tour!
The Bustling Harbour Life
The harbor itself is a lively hub, with traditional Filipino bangkas (outrigger boats) lining the shore. These colorful boats are more than just eye candy—they're your ticket to adventure. The friendly boat operators are ready to whisk you away to some of the most stunning spots in the Bacuit Archipelago to enjoy a day of island hopping, snorkeling, or scuba diving! Traditional Filipino bangka tours for island hopping in El Nido typically cost between PHP 1,200 to PHP 1,400 per person for a group tour. Private tours can range from PHP 4,000 to PHP 6,000 depending on the number of people and the specific destinations.
Local Flavors and Relaxed Vibes
After a day on the water, return to the harbor and indulge in the local cuisine. The beachfront is lined with cozy eateries where you can feast on fresh seafood, Filipino classics, and international favorites. Try some grilled squid or a plate of adobo paired with a refreshing tropical drink!
Why not try to enjoy a tour and dine at El Nido Boutique Artcafe, a complex that offers tour bookings & a handicrafts store? You can even enjoy an open-air cafe with all-day dining, just perfect to enjoy without being restricted by the time! A must-try is the seafood platter or their famous Artcafe pizza! Expect to pay from PHP 300 to PHP 600 per person.
Address: Serena St, Buena Suerte, El Nido, 5313 Palawan, Philippines.
Adventures at El Nido don't end in the front beach; you surely have to hop on a bangka tour and enjoy all the beaches this place has to offer you. Afterward, you can happily confirm that your holiday was as amazing and relaxing as you hoped for!
