El Nido: Private/Exclusive Island Hopping Tour A BEST PRICE!

If you’re planning a trip to the Philippines’ El Nido and want to see some of its most breathtaking sights without the crush of crowds, a private island hopping tour might just be your best bet.

Among the many options, Poseidon Tours’ Private Tour A consistently earns high praise for its exclusivity, flexibility, and beautiful destinations. This review offers a detailed look at what you can expect, based on real traveler feedback and the tour’s features.

What we love about this experience? First, the privacy and personalized attention that come with a private group make the day feel relaxed and special. Second, the stunning natural sights—like the renowned Big Lagoon and secret lagoons—are truly picture-perfect. The one thing to consider? This tour comes at a slightly higher price point than group tours, but many feel the value of a private experience justifies it.

Perfect for couples, families, or friends looking for an intimate adventure, this tour suits those seeking more control over their day while soaking in El Nido’s finest.

Key Points

• Private & Exclusive: Enjoy a personalized, crowd-free experience with your own boat and guide.
• Iconic Sights: Visit the Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, and other breathtaking spots.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Multiple opportunities to swim with turtles and explore coral reefs.
• Delicious Filipino Buffet: Indulge in a freshly prepared, local-style lunch.
• Flexible Timing & Duration: Around 8 hours, with starting times to check in advance.
• All-Inclusive Value: Water, soft drinks, kayak use, life vests, and entrance fees included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose a Private Tour in El Nido?

El Nido’s natural beauty is best appreciated without the crowds. This private tour offers the chance to carve your own path among the famous lagoons and beaches, with the flexibility to linger where you like or skip a stop if you prefer. The licensed guides and crew are well-trained and knowledgeable, often going above and beyond to ensure your comfort. Reviewers consistently mention the crew’s attentiveness, with one even noting how they stayed with a sick traveler to make sure she was okay.

With a 4.5-star rating based on 41 reviews, most travelers agree this is a solid choice for quality and value. The trip is especially praised for its well-organized itinerary, delicious food, and the personalized attention that comes with a private group. Travelers also appreciate the small group feel that enhances the overall experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price of $140 per person offers excellent value when you consider what’s included. You get free pickup within 1 km of Corong-corong Beach, a buffet lunch, water and soft drinks, mask and snorkel gear, life vests, and entrance fees for the lagoons. The licensed boat, guide, and crew ensure a safe and smooth ride.

However, extras like fin or aquashoe rentals or additional kayak time beyond what’s provided aren’t included. Also, hotel drop-off isn’t part of the package, so plan your transportation accordingly.

The Itinerary and Destinations

The tour typically lasts around 8 hours, starting with an early pickup. Here’s what you can expect at each stop:

Seven Commandos Beach

Our journey begins with a 5-minute tuk-tuk ride from El Nido town. This beach has a dramatic limestone backdrop and is perfect for a quick photo stop or a swim. Reviewers mention relaxing here while enjoying the scenery, making it a gentle start to the day.

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Big Lagoon

The highlight for many is the famous Big Lagoon. Encircled by towering black limestone cliffs, this spot is postcard-perfect. You might spend 45 minutes here kayaking, swimming, or simply taking in the views. One review highlights how spectacular the blue waters are, calling it an “amazing sight” that’s worth the trip alone. The lagoon’s calm waters and striking scenery are ideal for a peaceful paddle or a swim.

Shimizu Island

Next is Shimizu Island, where you can snorkel with sea turtles and explore coral reefs. The hour-long stop offers a chance to relax, swim, and enjoy the delicious Filipino-style buffet lunch prepared on board. Reviewers rave about the quality of the food, describing it as “mouthwatering” and highlighting the local dishes as a true taste of the Philippines.

Secret Lagoon

One of the tour’s most magical stops is the Secret Lagoon. Hidden behind limestone cliffs, accessing it involves passing through a narrow opening into a serene, secluded grotto. Many travelers find this spot enchanting and peaceful, with one reviewer calling it “sacred and enchanting.” The 45-minute stay allows plenty of time for swimming and exploring the grotto’s quiet beauty.

Payong-Payong Beach

The last stop is Payong-Payong Beach, a charming stretch of sand with gorgeous rock formations and gentle waves. It’s a perfect place to relax, swim, or paddleboard. One traveler described it as “a peaceful retreat,” with gorgeous scenery and modest waves, ideal for casual swimming.

Highlights that Make This Tour Special

Beyond just ticking off destinations, the tour’s true value lies in the personalized experience. You’ll love the way your own guide helps tailor the day, often taking photos or finding secluded spots. One reviewer mentioned how their guide, Cyron, found a quiet beach for lunch, making it a truly private moment. The kayaking included allows you to get close to the lagoons’ stunning scenery—many find it a memorable highlight.

The Big Lagoon

The iconic spot often cited as the trip’s high point. Its picturesque limestone cliffs and the startlingly blue water make it an Instagram favorite. But the appeal goes beyond social media. The calm waters are perfect for snorkeling and kayaking, and the seclusion keeps the feeling intimate.

Secret Lagoon

This hidden grotto is a must-see for those craving something more private and magical. The narrow entrance and tranquil waters make it a unique experience that many repeat visitors cherish.

Shimizu Island

Known for its snorkeling and turtle sightings, Shimizu Island offers a lively underwater scene. The delicious buffet served there is another bonus, giving you fuel for the rest of the day.

Practical Details & Travel Tips

Transport & Timing: The tour is around 8 hours long, with starting times you should check beforehand. The pick-up within 1 km of Corong-corong helps streamline your day, but be sure to confirm your pickup location.

Group Size & Atmosphere: As a private tour, you’ll enjoy a small, intimate group—perfect for couples or families who value privacy and personalized service.

Cost & Value: For $140, you get a full day of sightseeing, lunch, snorkel gear, and entrance fees. Many reviewers feel this is worth the price, especially considering the exclusivity and quality of the experience. Still, it’s more than a group tour, but the peace of mind and personal attention often justify the extra spend.

What to Bring: Pack a sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and cash. The tour advises bringing change of clothes and beachwear for flexibility. Fins and aquashoes aren’t included, but you might want them for snorkeling.

Restrictions: The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and no alcohol or smoking in the vehicle is allowed.

Authentic Traveler Experiences & What They Reveal

Reviewers consistently praise the friendly, attentive guides like Renz and Cyron, who go out of their way to make the trip memorable. One traveler appreciated how the crew took photos for them and found quieter spots for lunch, demonstrating the tour’s flexibility.

Many mention the quality of the food, describing it as “delicious Filipino dishes,” and note how the small group setting improves the overall experience. Several travelers highlight how the secluded lagoons and quiet beaches made for a truly peaceful escape.

The snorkeling is described as spectacular, with opportunities to see turtles and coral reefs. The inclusion of kayak use and mask/snorkel gear adds to the value, allowing for immersive exploration.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private tour is ideal for those who want to escape the crowds and have some control over their itinerary. If you’re traveling with friends or family and craving a more intimate experience, you’ll appreciate the personalized attention. The beautiful scenery, combined with the delicious lunch and laid-back pace, makes it perfect for relaxing and soaking up El Nido’s natural splendor.

If you’re more of a snorkeling enthusiast or want to capture stunning photos without throngs of travelers, this tour offers a rare chance. It’s also a good choice for romantic getaways or family groups seeking a private, memorable day out.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a high-quality, private way to explore El Nido’s most famous lagoons and beaches, this tour provides excellent value. The exclusive boat, delicious local lunch, and expert guides ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience — all wrapped into an 8-hour adventure.

While it costs a bit more than group options, many reviews confirm that the intimacy, flexibility, and personalized service make it worth every peso. The chance to snorkel with turtles, visit the secret lagoon, and kayak in the Big Lagoon makes it a truly memorable day in paradise.

This tour suits travelers who want a more private, relaxed, and tailored experience — perfect for honeymooners, families, or small groups looking to enjoy El Nido’s most stunning spots without the crowds.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
It’s designed for private groups, so solo travelers can book and enjoy the same personalized experience, but it will be priced as a private tour.

How long does the tour last?
Expect around 8 hours, with the start time depending on the day’s schedule. Check availability beforehand.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet Filipino lunch is part of the package, with many reviewers praising its quality.

Are snorkel masks and kayaks included?
Yes, mask and snorkel gear are provided, and you can use one kayak during the trip at no extra cost.

Can I customize the stops?
While the itinerary is fixed, the private nature allows your guide some flexibility, such as spending more time at your favorite spots.

Is there a pickup service?
Yes, free pickup within 1 km of Corong-corong Beach is included; confirm your location when booking.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towel, sun hat, camera, cash, and perhaps fins or aquashoes if desired for snorkeling.

Are there any restrictions?
This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and no smoking or alcohol in the boat is permitted.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Touring is weather-dependent, and cancellations are possible if conditions are unsafe. Always check with your provider ahead of time.

To sum it up, if you’re after a beautiful, peaceful, private day in El Nido’s lagoons with excellent guides and delicious local food, this Private Island Hopping Tour A offers a wonderful way to experience the best of this tropical paradise.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby