El Nido: Big Lagoon Island Hopping with Lunch

El Nido in Palawan is often portrayed as a slice of tropical paradise, and for good reason. With its towering limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, it’s a destination that beckons travelers seeking natural beauty and adventure. This particular tour, offered by TravelExplr Travel and Tours, promises a full day of discovery, including visits to some of El Nido’s most iconic spots — Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Seven Commandos Beach — with a tasty picnic lunch thrown into the mix.

What we love about this experience is how it balances stunning scenery with well-organized logistics. The knowledgeable guide ensures you get a good overview of each site, while the boat transfers and included equipment make it both convenient and accessible. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that you’ll need to pay on-site for fees such as the environmental and lagoon entry charges, which can add to the overall cost.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights of El Nido without fuss. If you’re short on time but eager to experience a variety of lagoons, snorkeling spots, and beaches, this package will suit you well. It’s also a good choice for families or groups who prefer a guided, all-in-one day with meals taken care of.

Key Points

• Stunning natural beauty with limestone cliffs and turquoise waters.
• Includes a guided tour with boat transfers, making logistics straightforward.
• Snorkeling opportunities to explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
• Secluded spots like Secret Lagoon for quiet, peaceful moments.
• Tasty picnic lunch on a beach, saving time and hassle.
• Limited entry to Big Lagoon means early booking or flexible plans are advised.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Highlights of the Tour

Exploring Big Lagoon — The Iconic Landmark

The tour’s first major stop, Big Lagoon, is often what travelers picture when they think of El Nido. The guide takes you through its calm, clear waters, where you can paddleboard or kayak — or simply float and admire the towering limestone formations. Visitors mention the stunning scenery as a major draw, with one reviewer noting, “We loved the way the cliffs framed the water — like being on a postcard.” The two-hour guided visit gives enough time to soak in the views, take photos, and enjoy a refreshing swim.

Snorkeling at Shimizu Island — Marine Wonderland

Next, your boat will head to Shimizu Island, renowned for vibrant coral gardens and lively marine life. The shallow waters near the island make it ideal for snorkeling, and many travelers find it a highlight. The marine biodiversity here is impressive, with colorful fish and coral, and you might even spot sea turtles if you’re lucky. One reviewer describes the experience as “a true underwater spectacle,” emphasizing the clarity of the water and diversity of the fish.

Secret Lagoon — A Hidden Gem

The Secret Lagoon is less known but equally captivating. Accessed through a small opening in towering limestone cliffs, this spot offers a tranquil escape. It’s perfect for a peaceful swim away from the crowds. The guide’s description of this site as a “hidden gem” resonates with visitors who enjoy discovering quiet corners of paradise. Expect around two hours here, giving ample time for photos, swimming, and relaxing in nature’s quiet sanctuary.

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Seven Commandos Beach — Relax and Recharge

The tour concludes at Seven Commandos Beach, famous for its powdery white sand and coconut trees. This is where you get your lunch — a picnic of Filipino-inspired dishes that travelers find satisfying after a day of activity. Many comment that the beach provides a perfect setting to unwind, play volleyball, or just soak up the sun. The hour allocated for lunch allows enough time to refuel before returning to El Nido town.

The Practical Aspects: What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour are the boat transfers, a licensed guide, and a picnic lunch — all essential for a hassle-free day. The use of life vests is provided, which is reassuring for those new to water activities. The tour generally starts with two pickup options, either from Marber’s or Jarace Grill, which makes meeting up straightforward, especially if you’re staying in town.

However, some costs are not included in the base price of $36 per person. You’ll need to pay El Nido’s environmental fee (Php 400) and Big Lagoon’s entrance fee (Php 200) on-site. These fees are standard and help preserve the area but do add to your overall expense. Plus, extras like kayak rentals, water shoes, masks, and snorkels are not included, so if underwater exploration is high on your list, plan to bring or rent your gear separately.

Timing and Group Size

The tour lasts approximately six hours, with specific start times depending on your booking. Group sizes are generally manageable, with options for private tours if you prefer a more intimate experience. The guide’s explanations are in English, making it accessible for international visitors.

Logistics and Tips

Since the tour begins at a designated meeting point in downtown El Nido, arriving early or on time is important. Remember to bring essentials like swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, ID, and some cash for the fees and souvenirs. A change of clothes is also recommended after swimming.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

Many travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides, who provide helpful insights into each location’s history and natural features. One reviewer noted, “The guide was very friendly and gave us good tips for snorkeling and taking photos.”

Others mention how the stunning views and peaceful lagoons make for unforgettable moments. The tour’s balance of activity and relaxation seems to appeal to both adventure seekers and those simply wanting to enjoy a beautiful setting.

A common theme among reviews is the value for money. At $36, this tour offers a comprehensive experience with transportation, guided explanations, and lunch included, making it a worthwhile choice for budget-conscious travelers who still want high-quality sights.

Why This Tour Works for Different Travelers

This island-hopping tour is well-suited to those who want to tick off the major highlights of El Nido without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves. It’s a good fit for first-time visitors, families, and small groups who enjoy shared experiences with a knowledgeable guide enhancing the visits.

If you’re short on time but eager to see the key lagoons and beaches, this tour delivers a condensed but satisfying taste of Palawan’s natural beauty. It’s also flexible enough for those wanting to add their own touches, like bringing extra snorkeling gear or planning to relax more at Seven Commandos Beach.

However, if you’re after a more secluded, quiet experience, you might want to consider private options or explore less-visited spots. But for a well-rounded, engaging introduction to El Nido, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking an affordable, organized, and scenic introduction to El Nido’s most famous spots, this island-hopping tour offers real value. The combination of stunning vistas at Big Lagoon, the diversity of marine life at Shimizu Island, and the peaceful privacy of Secret Lagoon makes it a solid choice.

The included lunch and guided explanation add to the overall convenience, especially for first-time visitors. While you will need to handle on-site fees and bring your own snorkeling gear if desired, these are manageable considerations.

This tour provides a balanced, fun-packed day that showcases the very best of what Palawan has to offer, making it a worthwhile addition to your El Nido itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $36 per person, which includes boat transfers, a guided tour, and a picnic lunch. Additional fees for environmental and lagoon entry are paid on-site.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, with specific start times depending on your booking. This allows ample time to visit multiple sites without feeling rushed.

Are meals included?
Yes, a picnic lunch is provided, giving you the energy needed for a full day of exploration. The lunch typically features local Filipino dishes.

What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID, swimwear, change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, and cash for fees and extras. Water shoes, masks, and snorkels are not included but can be rented separately if you prefer.

Do I need to pay additional fees?
Yes, you’ll need to pay Php 400 for the El Nido Environmental Fee and Php 200 for Big Lagoon entry — both payable on-site before boarding.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Absolutely. The pace and activities are family-friendly, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, relaxing, and taking photos. Just be mindful of the time spent in the sun.

Can I book a private tour?
Yes, private groups are available, which can offer more flexibility and intimacy for your day in paradise.

In essence, if you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and culturally rich introduction to El Nido’s lagoons and beaches, this tour offers excellent value. With knowledgeable guides and a good balance of adventure and relaxation, it’s a reliable choice for many travelers eager to explore Palawan’s natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: