El Nido Island Tour C

Travelers dreaming of turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, and pristine beaches will find this El Nido Island Tour C a compelling option. Operated by Cliffside Travel and Tours, this eight-hour excursion promises a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural charm, and fun activities—at a price that’s tough to beat at just $28 per person. Many visitors have been charmed by the stunning scenery and professional guides, making it a popular choice for those eager to experience El Nido’s highlights without breaking the bank.

Two things we love about this tour are its well-organized itinerary and the knowledgeable, friendly guides who really seem to enhance the experience. The tour’s focus on five distinct destinations ensures a varied day—whether you’re snorkeling, lounging on the beach, or exploring hidden spots—there’s plenty to keep everyone engaged. One consideration to keep in mind is the timing and group size, which might impact how much time you get at each stop or how crowded the spots feel.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers on a budget, families, and anyone who appreciates the convenience of having transportation and lunch taken care of. If you’re short on time but want a taste of El Nido’s natural wonders, this trip offers a solid balance of value and memorable sights.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $28, this tour offers excellent value for a full day of island hopping.
• Balanced Itinerary: Visits to five destinations including Helicopter Island, Matinloc Shrine, and Hidden Beach.
• Expert Guidance: The licensed tour guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Flexible Activities: Snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing—your choice.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Picnic lunch, boat permit, life vests, and hotel pickup included.
• Limited Disadvantages: Environmental fee and optional snorkeling mask rental are extra; timing may vary slightly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Meeting Point and Departure

Starting your adventure at the Cliffside Travel and Tours booking office beside El Nido Cliffside Cottages, you’ll want to arrive before 8:30 AM. This gives you enough time to settle in, meet your guide, and get any last-minute questions answered before the boat departs between 9:00 and 10:00 AM. The exact departure time depends on Coast Guard clearance, so some flexibility is wise.

This early start means you’ll be on the water just as the day begins to warm up—perfect for those who love avoiding the hottest part of the day. The tour provides hotel pickup in El Nido Town, adding to the convenience, especially after a day spent in sun and sand.

The Destinations: What You’ll See and Do

The tour visits five key spots, each offering a unique glimpse into El Nido’s natural and cultural landscape:

• Helicopter Island: Known for its distinctive shape and beautiful beaches, this spot is a great place to start. You can snorkel, take photos, or just relax on the sand. Many reviews highlight the stunning views and the fun of the boat ride itself.

• Matinloc Shrine: An interesting mix of history and scenic views. The shrine sits atop a hill, offering panoramic vistas of limestone formations and the sea. The site provides a cultural touchpoint amid natural beauty.

• Hidden Beach: Tucked away behind limestone cliffs, this beach feels like a secret. It’s an ideal spot for swimming and soaking in the solitude—though it can get crowded, the guides try to keep the experience relaxed.

• Secret Beach: True to its name, it’s a bit tricky to find, but that adds to its allure. The small cove offers calm waters perfect for swimming, and the atmosphere is more intimate than the other spots.

• Talisay Beach: The final stop offers a chance to unwind. You can sunbathe, play volleyball, or enjoy the restaurant facilities. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to relax after a busy day of sightseeing.

The Experience on the Water

The boat ride between each spot takes approximately 20-30 minutes, giving you time to enjoy the views and chat with fellow travelers. The 40 to 50-minute stays at each destination allow enough time to explore, swim, or just lounge.

More Great Tours Nearby

Activities and Amenities

During the day, you have the freedom to snorkel, swim, or sunbathe. You can rent snorkeling masks from the office or on the boat if you want to explore underwater life—many reviews mention how spectacular the snorkeling spots are. The picnic lunch served on one of the islands offers a break and a chance to refuel; the reviews consistently praise the delicious food and the scenic picnic setting.

The tour includes life vests, which are essential for safety, especially if you plan to snorkel or swim. The tour guide is always available to assist, answer questions, or point out interesting features along the way, adding educational value to the trip.

Duration and Timing

Starting around 8:30 AM, the tour wraps up by 3:00 to 5:00 PM, depending on conditions and group pace. This leaves plenty of time to relax afterward or explore El Nido town further.

What’s Included and What to Budget For

The $28 price covers most essentials: tour guide, five destinations, boat permit, life vests, picnic lunch, and hotel pickup in El Nido. This makes for excellent value, considering the full day of activities and transportation.

However, you’ll need to budget an additional 400 pesos for the environmental fee, paid at the booking office. If you want to snorkel, masks are available to rent from the office or on the boat—these are not included but are relatively inexpensive.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. One said, “The tour guide and crew were so nice and fun,” which highlights how much the personalities of the staff can enhance the experience. Others mention the stunning scenery—”The places were stunning,” as one guest put it—affirming that these destinations deliver on their reputation.

Many travelers also appreciate the organized nature of the trip, which allows them to maximize their short time in El Nido without feeling rushed. The balance of activities—snorkeling, swimming, relaxing—fits well for a wide range of travelers.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

• Arrive early at the meeting point to ensure smooth boarding.
• Bring cash for the environmental fee and optional snorkeling gear.
• Wear comfortable clothing and sun protection—hats, sunglasses, sunscreen.
• Consider renting snorkeling masks if you want to explore underwater.
• Pack a waterproof camera or phone case to capture the scenery.
• Be prepared for some crowds at popular spots—early or late in the day might be quieter.
• If you have dietary restrictions, check with your guide or bring snacks.
• Relax and enjoy the guides’ commentary—many reviews highlight their knowledgeable and friendly approach.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This El Nido Island Tour C is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a comprehensive experience without sacrificing quality. If you’re seeking beautiful beaches, limestone scenery, and snorkeling, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s also perfect for families or small groups who prefer an organized, hassle-free day with everything included.

Those with limited time in El Nido will appreciate how much of the region’s highlights are packed into one day. It’s a good choice for first-timers and travelers who value reliable guides and well-planned itineraries.

The Sum Up

The El Nido Island Tour C from Cliffside Travel offers an affordable, enjoyable, and well-organized way to see some of the most iconic spots around El Nido. For around $28, you get a full day of sightseeing, swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing—guided by friendly experts who enhance the experience with their knowledge.

While the tour’s schedule might be tight and dependent on weather or Coast Guard clearance, most travelers find the stunning scenery and professional service far outweigh any minor inconveniences. It’s a perfect option for those wanting a broad taste of El Nido’s natural wonders, especially if you’re visiting on a budget or short on time.

If you love breathtaking views, authentic beaches, and a safe, organized environment, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your trip to the Philippines. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure and your camera—those limestone cliffs and secret beaches are waiting to be captured!

FAQ

What is the starting point for this tour?
You meet at the Cliffside Travel and Tours booking office beside El Nido Cliffside Cottages before 8:30 AM.

When does the boat depart?
The boat leaves between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM, depending on Coast Guard clearance.

What destinations does this tour include?
It covers Helicopter Island, Matinloc Shrine, Hidden Beach, Secret Beach, and Talisay Beach.

Is food included?
Yes, a picnic lunch is provided on one of the islands, and many reviews praise its quality.

Are snorkeling masks included?
No, snorkeling masks are available for rent at the office or on the boat.

How long is the entire tour?
It lasts roughly 8 hours, ending between 3:00 and 5:00 PM.

What is the environmental fee?
It costs 400 pesos per person, payable at the booking office before the tour begins.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup in El Nido Town is included.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Travelers seeking a budget-friendly, organized day of sightseeing with excellent guides and beautiful scenery.

In short, whether you’re after Instagram-worthy beaches or a taste of El Nido’s limestone marvels, this tour offers real value and memorable sights. Prepare to see some of the Philippines’ finest natural treasures—all with friendly guides and a relaxed pace.

You can check availability for your dates here: