El Nido: Island Hopping Tour A with Kayaking on Big Lagoon

Embarking on an island-hopping tour in El Nido often feels like stepping into a postcard. This particular Tour A offers a well-rounded look at some of the most iconic spots, blending stunning scenery with fun activities like kayaking and snorkeling. For those seeking a taste of the Philippines’ tropical beauty, this trip provides a good mix of adventure and relaxation—all packed into around six hours.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it balances highlights like Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon with downtime at powdery beaches like Seven Commandos. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience all the more engaging. The value for the price — about $21 per person — feels fair considering the variety of activities and scenery on offer.

A potential drawback is that some stops can get crowded, especially during peak seasons, which might affect your sense of seclusion and tranquility. Also, the tour doesn’t include equipment rentals like kayaks or water shoes, so be prepared for extra costs if you want to fully enjoy everything.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate beautiful landscapes, enjoy water activities, and want a well-organized day with a knowledgeable guide. If you’re after a fun-filled, scenic adventure that showcases El Nido’s top sights without breaking the bank, this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery at Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon, ideal for photos and quiet exploration
• Kayaking opportunities that allow you to navigate turquoise waters and limestone cliffs firsthand
• Snorkeling in coral-rich areas teeming with marine life, perfect for underwater enthusiasts
• Relaxing beaches for sunbathing and unwinding after active parts of the day
• Well-organized itinerary with clear timing, guided tours, and a picnic lunch
• Additional costs for equipment rentals and environmental fees to consider

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

El Nido’s island-hopping tour promises a well-paced 6-hour journey through some of the most photogenic and memorable spots in the area. The day begins at Marber’s, the meeting point at Calle Hama Beach Front, where you’ll check in and meet your guide. The convenience of a centrally located start point means you’re immediately immersed in the tropical vibe, with friendly staff ready to help you gear up.

Stop 1: Seven Commandos Beach

Your first stop is Seven Commandos, a stretch of powdery white sand ideal for stretching your legs and enjoying the sea breeze. This is the spot to relax, swim, or soak up the sun. The reviews highlight the friendly guides, with one noting, “Anderson and Ken Kyle were very funny and made the whole trip unforgettable.” It’s a perfect gentle start that offers scenic views during the transfer. You get about an hour here, enough time for some photos and a quick swim before heading to the next highlight.

Stop 2: Big Lagoon

Arguably the star of the tour, Big Lagoon features towering limestone cliffs and calm, turquoise waters. Here, you’ll have a guided tour and the chance to kayak around the lagoon, exploring hidden corners and capturing those postcard-perfect shots. The experience of paddling amidst limestone formations is serene and fun. The scenic views are striking, and it’s a highlight that many reviews praise.

A reviewer mentioned, “This was a nice trip with great snorkeling opportunities and kayaking was fun!” which captures the overall enjoyment of this stop. The guided aspect ensures you get some local insights, making the experience richer.

Stop 3: Shimizu Island

After working up an appetite, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch at Shimizu Island. The island’s white sands and clear waters make it a pleasant spot to relax or snorkel. The lunch is included, offering a simple, tasty meal, although one reviewer noted the lack of vegetarian options. Still, the view and the chance to unwind in a beautiful setting make this a memorable break.

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Stop 4: Secret Lagoon

Hidden behind limestone formations, the Secret Lagoon offers a secluded escape that many travelers find enchanting. Guided tours here help you discover this secret spot, allowing for quiet exploration away from crowds.

One reviewer said, “It would be nice to get more information about each place,” reflecting that some travelers might wish for deeper insights, but the overall allure of discovering a hidden lagoon remains a big plus.

End Point: Dockyard

Your day concludes back at the Dockyard, completing a circuit that hits all the key sights. The organized flow means you’re rarely waiting around, and guides ensure safety and commentary throughout.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes a licensed tourist boat, licensed captain, local guide, snorkel gear, life jackets, a picnic lunch, and drinking water—a solid package considering the price.

Extra costs include kayak rentals (around PHP 300 for two-seaters), water shoes (PHP 100), fins (PHP 150), and the environmental fee (PHP 400). These are worth budgeting for if you want to paddle around or snorkel comfortably. Note that hotel transfers are not included, so you’ll need to get yourself to the meeting point.

The Practicalities

Timing is key: with a 6-hour duration and multiple stops, you’ll want to arrive energized and ready for a busy day. The tour operates on availability, so booking in advance is wise. The start times vary, so check what suits your schedule.

Group size can be private or in larger groups, depending on your preference. The guides speak English, and their local knowledge shines through, adding depth and humor to the trip.

What to bring includes sun protection, a waterproof camera, change of clothes, snacks, and cash for extras. The tour discourages smoking, touching marine life, and touching plants, aligning with eco-friendly practices.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Feedback

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, with one describing the guides as “very friendly and funny.” The views at Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon are consistently called “beautiful” and “enchanting,” confirming that these spots are worth the journey.

Some mention crowding at popular stops, which is typical during peak seasons, but most agree that the overall experience remains positive. As one reviewer put it, “the route is very popular so some stops can be very crowded,” but the scenery makes up for it.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy water activities like snorkeling and kayaking. The price point offers good value for the variety of stops and activities. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided experiences and want to see El Nido’s best-known sights with minimal hassle.

It’s worth noting that it’s not designed for people over 70 or those with mobility issues, given the active nature of the day. If you’re traveling with kids or family, the relatively short stops and manageable schedule make it a good choice.

The Sum Up

For travelers looking for a balanced day of exploration, water fun, and scenic beauty in El Nido, this Island Hopping Tour A hits the right notes. The combination of stunning lagoons, secluded secret spots, and beach relaxation makes it a well-rounded introduction to the area. The guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude enhance the experience, helping you feel both safe and engaged.

While some might find the crowds at popular stops a little overwhelming, the natural beauty and variety of activities outweigh this minor inconvenience. The tour’s affordability makes it accessible, and the included snorkeling gear, lunch, and safety equipment provide good value.

Ultimately, this tour appeals to water lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a fun, hassle-free way to see the highlights of El Nido’s breathtaking coastline. Pack your sunscreen, water, and sense of adventure—you’re about to enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery the Philippines has to offer.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is transportation included? No, hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to the meeting point.

What is the tour duration? The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, with multiple stops for sightseeing, activities, and lunch.

Are the guides bilingual? Yes, the guides speak English, which is helpful for understanding the sites and safety instructions.

Do I need to rent equipment? Yes, kayak, water shoes, and fins are available for rent at additional costs. The tour includes snorkel gear, but those rentals are not included.

Can I bring my own water or snacks? It’s recommended to bring your own water and snacks to stay energized throughout the day.

Is it suitable for children? The tour is generally suitable for most ages, but it involves active water activities and a full day out, so consider your children’s comfort and stamina.

What should I wear? Bring beachwear, a sun hat, sunglasses, and waterproof gear for your camera. Remember to wear or bring insect repellent and cash for extras.

Is the tour eco-friendly? The tour encourages responsible behavior, such as not touching marine life or plants, and has an environmental fee payable onboard.

How crowded are the stops? During peak season, some stops may be busy, especially popular lagoons. Guides do their best to manage the group, but expect some crowds at top sights.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if this El Nido island-hopping adventure fits your travel style. With its combination of natural beauty, engaging activities, and friendly guides, it offers a genuine taste of the Philippines’ tropical paradise—worth every peso.

You can check availability for your dates here: