El Nido: Tour D with Cadlao Lagoon, Paradise Beach & More

If you’re considering a day trip to the stunning islands of El Nido, the Tour D offered by Akingventures Travel & Tours might catch your eye. This guided boat excursion promises a peaceful adventure away from the crowds, showcasing some of the area’s lesser-visited spots like Cadlao Lagoon and Paradise Beach. While it has its charms, a closer look suggests it’s best suited for travelers with a flexible schedule and a desire for quieter, more serene beaches.

What we really like about this tour is the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters and unwind on quiet sandy shores, away from the busier tourist spots. The inclusion of a picnic lunch on the beach and the professional guide ensure a comfortable experience. On the flip side, some reviews point out organizational hiccups—particularly the early start time and overcrowding at popular sites—that could impact your overall enjoyment. This tour would suit folks who prioritize tranquil scenery and are willing to accept a few logistical trade-offs.

If you’re after an authentic, laid-back day on the water with a focus on natural beauty rather than crowds, this tour could be a good fit. But if punctuality and perfect organization are your top priorities, you might want to compare alternatives or consider a private tour option.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $22 per person, this tour offers a budget-friendly way to see some of El Nido’s quieter spots.
• Focus on Serenity: It’s ideal for travelers seeking peaceful beaches and less crowded snorkeling sites.
• Potential Scheduling Flaws: Early start times and organization issues may lead to missing the best weather or overcrowding.
• Includes Essentials: Comfortable boat transfers, a guide, life jackets, a picnic lunch, and water come standard.
• Additional Fees: Expect to pay extra for the environment fee, lagoon entrance, and optional rentals like kayaks or snorkeling gear.
• Weather-Dependent: Tours are subject to cancellation if weather conditions turn unfavorable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Departure

We begin at Grounded 100% Arabica Coffee in El Nido, where you’ll meet your guide and crew. The meeting time is typically around 9:00 AM, with departure scheduled for 8:30 AM—a small inconsistency that travelers should note. Early mornings in El Nido are usually peaceful, but the actual start time can be tight, especially if the staff is behind schedule.

The boat itself is a standard, shared vessel with other adventurers, so expect a group setting unless you opt for a private tour. The boat transfer is straightforward, with all destinations covered, and safety gear like life jackets provided.

Itinerary Breakdown

Nat Nat Beach and Lunch

The tour includes a stop at Nat Nat Beach, where you’ll have 1.5 hours to relax, explore the shoreline, or do some snorkeling. The reviews suggest this is a favorite stop for its marine life—“vibrant” is how some describe the underwater scene—so bringing your own snorkel gear could be worthwhile since rentals are not included.

Eating a picnic-style lunch on the beach provides a simple but satisfying meal, allowing travelers to refuel amid natural surroundings. Many appreciate the opportunity to enjoy fresh air and scenic views without the crowds of more popular sites.

Cadlao Lagoon & Paradise Beach

One of the biggest draws is Cadlao Lagoon, a less-visited gem known for its calm waters and impressive limestone formations. Snorkeling here offers a chance to see marine life in a peaceful setting, though some reviews hint at logistical issues—“you arrive at the first location at 11:00 when every spot is already crowded,” which is a common complaint in tours that start late or focus on packing as many people as possible.

Next, you’ll visit Paradise Beach, with its inviting white sands and gentle surf, perfect for unwinding after snorkeling. While some travelers rave about its tranquility, others mention that the tour’s busy schedule might diminish the feeling of true relaxation.

Bukal Island and Other Spots

The itinerary mentions exploring Bukal Island and the vibrant marine environment around Nat Nat Beach, but specifics are scarce. The focus seems to be on providing a peaceful experience, although overcrowding and timing might compromise that goal.

The Realities of the Experience

More Great Tours Nearby

Pros

• Affordable Price: At $22, this tour is a wallet-friendly way to see a handful of El Nido’s less-crowded beaches.
• Peaceful Locations: If you’re tired of the crowds at popular spots, the quieter beaches and lagoons here are a major plus.
• Snorkeling Opportunities: With clear waters and diverse marine life, you’ll likely enjoy the underwater scenes.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: The picnic lunch and scenic stops promote a more laid-back experience.

Cons

• Timing and Organization: Feedback indicates that the tour often starts late and arrives at key sites when they are already crowded. “You miss 3 hours with the best weather of the day,” one reviewer laments.
• Crowding and Overloading: To maximize profit, the boat packs in quite a few travelers, which can make boarding, disembarking, and moving around less comfortable.
• Additional Costs: Entrance fees—like the small lagoon fee of P200—and optional kayak rentals are extra, adding to your overall costs.
• Weather Dependency: Like all outdoor activities, this tour hinges on good weather; cancellations are possible if conditions are rough.

Value and Suitability

At $22, the value proposition is attractive, especially considering the included guide, boat transfers, and lunch. However, the actual experience will depend heavily on how well the logistics are managed on the day. If punctuality and avoiding crowds are important to you, this tour might fall short. It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize scenic, quiet spots and are flexible with timing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for budget-conscious travelers eager for a peaceful day on the water, with a focus on natural beauty rather than crowded tourist hotspots. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with a slightly rushed schedule and open to potentially crowded stops. If you’re traveling with family or friends looking for an affordable, relaxed day without the fuss of organization, this could fit well.

Conversely, if you value punctuality, a small group experience, or pristine solitude, you might prefer a private tour or one with more flexible timing. Always check the weather forecast and be prepared for possible changes or delays.

Final Thoughts

El Nido’s Tour D with Cadlao Lagoon and Paradise Beach offers a decent snapshot of the area’s quieter spots, especially if you’re willing to accept some logistical imperfections. It’s budget-friendly, with the chance to snorkel in clear waters and unwind on some lovely beaches. Yet, the early start times and reports of overcrowding at certain stops mean you should approach with flexible expectations.

For travelers seeking a laid-back day amidst nature’s calm, this tour provides a good starting point. If your priority is punctuality, exclusivity, or avoiding crowds altogether, exploring other options or even a private tour might be worth considering. Regardless, the beaches and lagoons you’ll visit are undeniably beautiful, making this a worthwhile experience for those who can navigate its quirks.

FAQs

What is the starting point for the tour?
You meet at Grounded 100% Arabica Coffee, El Nido Branch, usually around 9:00 AM, with the tour departing at 8:30 AM. Be sure to arrive early to avoid missing the boat.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, usually returning around 4:30 PM. The schedule includes several stops with time allocated for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beaches.

Are meals included?
Yes, a picnic-style lunch is provided on the beach. It’s simple but offers a break from the water, with plenty of water to stay hydrated.

What are the extra costs?
You’ll need to pay additional fees like the P400 environmental fee, P200 lagoon entrance fee, and any kayak or snorkeling gear rentals. If you’ve paid these earlier, they’re valid for five days upon presentation.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially for those wanting a relaxed day with natural scenery. Just remember that the boat can get crowded, and timing might be tight.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

In summary, the El Nido Tour D with Cadlao Lagoon and Paradise Beach offers a budget-friendly way to see some of the area’s quieter spots, but it comes with caveats around timing and crowding. If you’re flexible and eager to enjoy peaceful beaches and snorkeling, this could be a solid choice. If you’re seeking a perfectly organized, crowd-free experience, you might want to explore other options—possibly private tours or different island-hopping packages. Either way, the natural beauty of El Nido’s lagoons and beaches remains a highlight worth experiencing.

You can check availability for your dates here: