Alexandra McFarlane Alexandra McFarlane

El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

Travel Guide to El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

Paradise is a place called Palawan

  • Philippine Pesos (PHP)

    Majority of your spending will be consumed by transportation and accommodation. The Philippines is affordable depending on what kind of traveler you are. You can find a range of accommodation options in El Nido, from budget hostels to luxury resorts. On average, budgeting around $30 to $100. For a week-long stay, this would amount to $210 to $700.

  • You should visit El Nido, Palawan is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to May. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions with minimal rainfall and sunny days. The wet season in El Nido, from June to October, is characterized by increased rainfall and occasional typhoons. While the rain can disrupt some outdoor activities, the landscape becomes greener and more vibrant during this time. If you plan to visit during the wet season, it's advisable to check the weather forecast and be prepared for potential changes to your itinerary.

  • Unlike what you often find on the internet, El Nido is easier to get to by Lio Airport. Contrary to the advice to land in Puerta Princessa which takes about 6 hours on a bus to get the the northern part of the island. From your departure destination my recommendation is to fly directly with Philippine Airlines and then once landing in Manila at Ninoy Aquino Airport. Transfer to Airswift, which is a direct flight to Lio Airport in El Nido.

  • Filipino (based on Tagalog) and English.

    Filipino, based on Tagalog, is the national language of the Philippines. It is widely spoken throughout the country and serves as a lingua franca for communication among the diverse regions and ethnic groups. Filipino is taught in schools and used in government, media, and official documents.

    Salamat Po: Thank you

  • 1 Week

  • Philippine Pesos (PHP)

  • El Nido is very safe.

  • 4 out of 5

    Make sure you find a hotel with reliable internet. Most cafes offer free Wi-Fi. Be aware that El Nido may experience “Black outs” so booking a hotel with their own generator is important!

 

Accommodations

Ranked from $-$$$$

Frendz Hostel

Perfect stay for those on a budget. Meet new people, stay in the heart of town with incredible views from the pool. Social vibe and good food and drinks.

Isla Amara

Prime location on Lio Beach. Close proximity to the airport, local shops, hip bars and restaurants.

Seda

Located on LIO beach. Just a little further down the beach from Isla Amara. This is the ideal place to stay with your family as the rooms are comfortable and large. The swim up bar in the pool is a highlight for me and. Not to mention the spa.

sunset

Angkla Beach Club

The ultimate vacation destination. Angkla is the only place I would go to for some much needed r&r. Located on Nacpan beach, voted the #1 BEACH in the Philippines. Once you are there you can see why. The path to get there is a trek, however its 1000% worth it. Most days I found myself and a handful of people on the entire beach. It is the most scenic, relaxing place on the planet and you can’t tell me otherwise. The sunsets are breathtaking. The staff and resort itself is a 15/10.

Things to do

Popular activities in El Nido include island-hopping tours, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and beach bumming.

  • Taraw Peak

  • El Nido Ziplining

  • Surfing in Duli Beach

  • Grab a cocktail at Panorama

  • Visit downtown El Nido

  • Get a massage at A Spa

  • Go ATVing on Nacpan Beach

  • Scuba diving

  • Yoga at Yoga Tayo

  • Nacpan Beach

  • Lio Beach

  • Las Cabanas Beach

  • Duli Beach

  • Marimegmeg Beach

Restaurants

  • El Nido Grill: Located on Lio Beach

  • Cusina Maya: Located 10 min walk from Lio Beach: Authentic Philippino cusine.

  • Panorama: My favorite place on the island to watch sunset and enjoy cocktails

  • Yoga Tayo (Healthy options): Located on Lio Beach

  • Hot Gossip: Located in Downtown El Nido

  • Air bowls (Airport terminal)

Tips

  • Wear coconut oil or lemongrass oil to avoid being bitten by Sand flies!

  • On LIO beach there is 4 ATMs (sometimes they do run out of cash, $5 flat fee)

  • Always negotiate with street vendors. Don’t be afraid to walk away because many other vendors often sell the same thing.

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