If you’re headed to El Nido and looking for a way to see its most iconic sights without breaking the bank, Tour A offers a fantastic option. While we haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, reviews and descriptions paint a pretty clear picture: it’s a day packed with picture-perfect lagoons, pristine beaches, and lively snorkeling spots, all delivered with friendly guides and good value.
What we love about this experience is the chance to visit Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, and Seven Commandos Beach, among others—each offering a unique flavor of what makes El Nido so special. Plus, the inclusion of lunch, guides, and life vests makes it easier to just relax and enjoy. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the entry fees and crowds, which can add up if you’re not prepared.
Still, if you’re after authentic scenery, some fun water activities, and a taste of local beauty, this tour hits the right notes.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a well-organized day of exploring without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s also perfect if you’re on a budget but still crave a comprehensive experience. Families, groups, or solo travelers who enjoy moderate physical activity—like swimming or kayaking—will find plenty to love here.
Key Points
- Affordable Price: At $23 per person, you get a lot of bang for your buck, especially considering lunch and guides are included.
- Multiple Scenic Spots: Visit up to four key locations, including lagoons, beaches, and snorkeling sites.
- Guided Experience: Licensed guides help you navigate the stops and add local insights.
- Flexible Options: Shared or private tours available, catering to different comfort levels.
- Additional Fees: Be aware of extra costs like the El Nido eco-tourism fee and Big Lagoon entry fee.
- Active and Relaxing: Combines snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, and time on sandy beaches for a well-rounded day.
A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience
El Nido is a place where the landscape seems to have been carved by a master artist, and Tour A is a great way to see some of the most striking parts without sitting on a crowded boat with strangers. The tour lasts around 8 hours, leaving you plenty of time to soak in the views, snap photos, and enjoy some downtime in the sun.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in El Nido.
The Itinerary Breakdown
The day typically begins with a pickup (note that hotel transfers are not included, so you’ll need to meet at a designated point or arrange your own transport). Once on your boat—either shared with other travelers or private if you prefer—you’ll head out into Bacuit Bay, where several highlights await.
The Secret Lagoon is often the first stop. Hidden behind jagged rocks, this tiny pool offers a chance to feel like you’ve discovered something private and special. One reviewer points out that, “This was a secret world hidden in the jagged rock walls,” highlighting how unique this spot feels—although, be prepared for potential crowds, as others love it too.
Shimizu Island is next—a gorgeous stretch of white sand and clear waters, ideal for relaxing or snorkeling. Travelers frequently mention how perfect the water is for swimming, with reviews like, “The beaches and water were amazing in all the stops.” Bring your snorkel gear if you have it, or rent some on-site to get the full experience of Bacuit Bay’s colorful marine life.
Seven Commandos Beach is renowned for its idyllic setting—palm trees, soft sand, and calm waters. It’s a great place for a picnic lunch or just lounging under the shade of coconut trees. Lunch is included and generally praised for its quality, with many reviewers mentioning how well the guides prepare and serve local food “delicious and plentiful.”
Big Lagoon often stands out as the tour’s highlight. Its stunning, mirror-like waters and towering limestone walls make it one of the most photographed spots in El Nido. You can rent a kayak for an extra fee, allowing you to explore at your own pace—just be aware that entry to the lagoon requires paying a 200 PHP fee, which is worth the expense for the experience. Several reviews mention how magical the lagoon looks, with some even spotting sea turtles during their visit.
Water Activities and the Overall Atmosphere
The tour offers optional rentals like aqua shoes, fins, and kayaks, which many travelers find worth the extra cost. The guides often help with taking pictures too, making it easier to capture your memories. One guest described the experience as “a fantastic day out, snorkeling and kayaking, caves, and secret lagoons,” emphasizing how diverse and engaging the activities are.
The boat crew, frequently praised for their friendliness and professionalism, work hard to make everything smooth. Multiple reviews cite guides like Arnold or Leo as being “funny,” “courteous,” and attentive to safety. This attentiveness helps create a relaxing environment—you’re encouraged to enjoy yourself without worry.
Practical Details and Considerations
The price of $23 per person is quite reasonable when you consider the included guide, boat transportation, lunch, and life vests. However, keep in mind that you’ll need to budget for additional fees—the El Nido eco-tourism fee (400 PHP) and the Big Lagoon entry fee (200 PHP)—which you pay upon arrival or at the transport terminal.
Transportation to the meeting point is not included, so you’ll want to plan how to get there—whether walking or arranging a quick ride. The tour duration is 8 hours, so pack sunscreen, a swimwear, change of clothes, and some cash for souvenirs or snacks.
If you’re considering a private group, the option is available, which could be more flexible but will cost more. For most travelers, the shared tour strikes a good balance of cost and experience.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Crowd Factor
A common theme in reviews is that the locations can get crowded, especially during peak seasons like Easter or summer. One traveler mentioned that “the tour groups being there didn’t bother us—the locations were all so nice, we were just happy to be there.” The guides often do their best to amend the itinerary based on crowd levels, which can improve the experience.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you enjoy easy water activities like snorkeling and kayaking, appreciate well-organized tours with friendly guides, and want to see the most iconic sights of Bacuit Bay without the hassle of planning, this tour is a solid choice. It’s particularly great for those on a budget who still want a comprehensive experience. Families and solo travelers alike find value here, especially since the day offers plenty of opportunities to relax and take in nature’s beauty.
Those who prefer more secluded experiences or have mobility issues might find some spots crowded or challenging, but for most, the balance of adventure and relaxation works well. Remember, if you opt for a private tour, you’ll have more flexibility to tailor the stops and timing.
The Sum Up
For those venturing to El Nido, Island Hopping Tour A provides a well-priced, scenic, and fun way to experience some of Bacuit Bay’s most stunning sights. The combination of beautiful lagoons, inviting beaches, and lively snorkeling spots—paired with guides who know their stuff—makes it a worthwhile option for a full day of exploration.
While crowds and additional fees are considerations, they shouldn’t detract too much from the overall enjoyment when you’re surrounded by some of the most breathtaking scenery the Philippines has to offer. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation that captures the essence of El Nido’s natural beauty.
If you’re craving an authentic, picture-perfect day on the water, it’s hard to go wrong with this tour. Just remember to bring your camera, a change of clothes, and an appetite for stunning landscapes.
El Nido: Island Hopping Tour A Lagoons and Beaches
FAQ
Are hotel pickups included in this tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the starting point.
What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport or ID, swimwear, a change of clothes, sunscreen, and some cash for additional fees or souvenirs.
Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Yes. You need to pay the El Nido eco-tourism fee (400 PHP) and the Big Lagoon entry fee (200 PHP), which are paid separately.
Can I rent water gear like fins or kayaks?
Yes, you can rent aqua shoes, fins, or kayaks on-site for an extra fee.
What if I don’t want to kayak?
You can opt to enjoy the lagoon and beaches without kayaking, though renting a kayak is recommended if you want to explore Big Lagoon more fully.
Is this suitable for children or less mobile travelers?
While most stops involve some walking or swimming, the tour isn’t ideal for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the nature of the locations and boat transfers.
How flexible is the itinerary?
Guides can amend the stops based on crowd levels or weather, which helps improve the experience, especially during busy times.
In all, this tour offers a reliable, scenic, and great-value way to explore El Nido’s top sights, making it a smart choice for travelers eager to see the best without overcomplicating their day.
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