El Nido Island Hopping Tour A with Lunch

An In-Depth Look at El Nido Island Hopping Tour A with Lunch

Travelers dreaming of white-sand beaches, shimmering lagoons, and dramatic limestone formations will find this El Nido Island Hopping Tour A a promising way to experience some of Palawan’s most iconic sights. While not a private experience, this group tour offers a well-rounded day of exploration, natural beauty, and local flavor.

From what we gather, this tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of scenic cruising, light adventure, and good local food — all at an accessible price point. We love the fact that it includes lunch, free snorkel gear, and round-trip transport, making it a convenient, hassle-free way to tick off multiple highlights in one day.

A potential consideration? It’s a busy tour, often booked 23 days ahead, which means you’ll want to plan your schedule accordingly. But if you’re after a comprehensive introduction to El Nido’s stunning islands, this tour hits the right notes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a traveler eager for a value-packed day with plenty of photo-worthy moments, this trip offers a good balance of activity and relaxation. It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors to Palawan who want to see the highlights without the hassle of arranging multiple transfers or guides on your own.

Key Points

• Ideal for first-timers wanting an overview of El Nido’s best spots.
• Includes lunch and free snorkel equipment — great for budget-conscious travelers.
• Three themed tour options allow for personalized island experiences.
• Round-trip transport simplifies logistics with pickup from downtown El Nido.
• Group size limited to 30 ensures a more intimate experience.
• Booking well in advance (around 23 days) underscores its popularity.

The Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Out: Ease of Access and Timing

The tour kicks off at 9:00 am from Jarace Grill on Rizal Street, a central and convenient location in El Nido. Expect to be picked up and transferred by boat, setting the tone for a day of island-hopping adventure. The duration ranges from 6 to 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the sights at each stop while allowing for some flexibility depending on weather and group pace.

Secret Lagoon: Hidden Serenity

Your first stop is the Secret Lagoon, a small paradise tucked inside a tiny island. It’s a quiet spot to enjoy pristine white beaches and crystal-clear water, perfect for snapping photos and relaxing. The lagoon is a favorite for many travelers, with admission included in the tour fee.

Reviews highlight the beauty of this spot: “The view from the beach and exploring the lagoon was spectacular,” shared a traveler. This stop is ideal for anyone wanting a peaceful moment before the day’s more active pursuits.

Shimizu Island: A Green Oasis

Next, you’ll visit Shimizu Island, featuring a white-sand beach fringed with lush green trees. It’s a natural shelter for swimming and relaxing, with the added bonus of incredible viewpoints of surrounding limestone karsts.

Reviewers loved the clarity of the water here: “Swimming in the blue water with the karsts in the background was an unforgettable experience.” It’s a classic El Nido postcard moment, with plenty of space to splash around or laze on the sand.

Seven Commandos Beach: Rejuvenating Rest Spot

Your afternoon includes a visit to Seven Commandos Beach, a spot that travelers find both beautiful and peaceful. Its limestone cliffs and verdant surroundings make it a hit for relaxing, taking photos, or grabbing a quick snack.

The hour-long stop allows enough time to unwind, swim, and enjoy the scenery. One reviewer described it as a “refreshing break to rejuvenate both mind and body,” echoing the overall calming vibe of the island.

Optional Premium Stop: Big Lagoon

While included in the tour, access to the Big Lagoon requires an extra fee—PHP 200 for the lagoon user fee, not included in the main price. Not all tour operators include this in their standard package, so travelers should be aware. The lagoon is famed for its stunning, calm waters, lined with towering limestone formations, perfect for kayaking or swimming.

Extra Activities and Amenities

The tour includes lunch, which many reviews praise as generous and delicious. A typical meal features fruits, vegetables, fish, chicken, pork, plus rice — a hearty Filipino-style spread that fuels your explorations.

Snorkel equipment is free, allowing you to explore underwater life. Kayaks and aqua shoes are available for rent if you want to venture further or explore in different ways.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Perspectives

Many reviews commend the friendly guides and the well-organized nature of the tour. “A great day out with really helpful guides,” said ajay_c. The guides are praised for their knowledge and attentiveness, making the experience smoother and more enjoyable.

The lunch gets high marks for being tasty and plentiful. One reviewer said, “The crew takes great care of you and puts together a huge lunch full of fruits, veggies, fish, chicken, pork, and rice.” This makes a big difference in a full-day trip, preventing hunger from distracting from the views.

Some travelers, however, mention minor issues like disorganization or hidden fees. For example, Natalie W. pointed out that the environmental fee (PHP 400) was not included in the original price, which can be confusing if unanticipated. But overall, most find the extra costs understandable and transparent with prior knowledge.

Caveats and Considerations

• Booking in advance is recommended due to the tour’s popularity (average booking is 23 days ahead).
• The tour can be crowded, especially during peak season, which might affect the tranquility at some stops.
• The Big Lagoon entrance fee is extra, so budget accordingly.
• The tour does not include personal kayak or snorkel gear unless rented.
• Weather dependence means the tour can be canceled or rescheduled in bad weather, with full refunds offered if canceled.

The Value Proposition

At $24 per person, this tour offers remarkable value considering the access to five islands, a hearty lunch, and guided service. The price reflects a comprehensive experience, with many travelers commenting on the quality of the guides and food relative to the cost.

The inclusion of round-trip transportation from El Nido’s center simplifies logistics, ensuring you spend less time worrying about how to get around and more time enjoying the scenery.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting an approachable, all-in-one introduction to the highlights of El Nido. It’s perfect for budget travelers who appreciate good food and scenic boat rides without the need for private or exclusive experiences.

Those who love snorkeling and beach lounging will find plenty to enjoy. It’s also a good pick for families or groups who want a safe, organized day out in some of the Philippines’ most photogenic spots.

Final Thoughts

El Nido Island Hopping Tour A with Lunch checks many boxes for travelers seeking a convenient, scenic, and affordable way to see Palawan’s standout islands. The mix of delicious food, friendly guides, and stunning landscapes makes it a memorable experience.

While it’s not perfect — crowded at peak times and with some extra fees to keep in mind — it remains a highly recommended way to get a taste of the natural beauty that makes El Nido famous. For those who want a well-rounded, enjoyable day without excessive fuss, this tour offers excellent value and authentic charm.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes boat transfers, a guided experience, lunch, and free snorkel equipment rental. Entrance fees to the islands are included except for the Big Lagoon, which has an additional fee.

What is the start time?
The tour begins at 9:00 am from Jarace Grill on Rizal Street in El Nido.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, allowing plenty of time for each stop and some flexibility.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transport from downtown El Nido is provided as part of the package.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund.

Are there options to customize the tour?
The tour offers three different themes (hidden beaches/shrines, lagoons and beaches, caves and coves), allowing you to choose based on your interests.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a towel, waterproof camera, some cash for optional extras, and a sense of adventure.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers including families have enjoyed it, provided children are comfortable with boat rides and swimming.

How crowded is the tour?
It can be busy, especially in peak season, but the guided nature and group size limit help maintain a manageable experience.

Is it worth the price?
Absolutely — considering the stops, meals, and guided service, most travelers find it good value for money in a truly spectacular setting.