Approximate reading time: 15-20 minutes

Introduction

Ever since I could remember, I’ve always loved gifting life experiences to my friends and family. Material gifts are great too of course, but it always feels really special to me to be able to experience something with my loved ones, or even have them experience something they always wanted to do even if i’m not with them.

Watch this and explore with us in El Nido, Philippines

El Nido is one of my favorite places ever, it’s one that I keep finding myself coming back to. And it seems like I always come back bringing the people I love with me. I’ve brought my family here for Father’s Day, I’ve brought my bestie for more than 20 years here for Valentine’s Day, and Martin and I spent our first Valentine’s Day together here, and I’ve even brought little Tokyo here before she was born!

Watch this and head over with your bestie now!

El Nido has a quiet charm about it but the natural beauty it holds is nothing short of amazing! Since El Nido has become a place I love to share with my loved ones, I wanted to share a 5 day itinerary so that you and your loved ones can experience the same wondrous beauty too! This itinerary is great for some quality time with bestie/the besties, but it should also be perfect if you want to do it with someone who is… more than just your bestie, if you know what I mean. ;)

Watch our first Valentine’s Day together here and be inspired

Watch this vlog and explore with us!

Why 5 Days?

But before we go any further, you might be thinking, why 5 days? Well, thank you for asking that question! Whether or not it is your first time coming to El Nido, 5 days is just enough time to get a mix of exploring and relaxing.

5 days lets you catch all the must-see spots while still giving you time to just lounge around the beach all day. Anything less than this might feel too rushed. El Nido is a spot with so much to offer, and you want to have enough time to really appreciate it and take it all in.

Want Me and My Team to Plan Your Dream El Nido Vacation?

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Disclaimer

The information presented in this article may be subject to change at the venue or service provider’s discretion. You may check their respective websites or social media accounts for any updates on the price, location, and other details. Additionally, this article may contain affiliate links from which we get a portion of profit, at no added cost to you. These links are safe to click.

With that, I hope you enjoy reading!

Itinerary

DAY 1: Welcome to El Nido

To get to El Nido you can either take a plane from Manila or you can book a side trip to Puerto Princesa and take a van from there. The van ride to El Nido is around 5 or more hours and can be quite bumpy as compared to taking a plane from Manila which would take around an hour and a half.

*Island hopping in El Nido Palawan, Philippines*

If you are coming from Coron, another one of Palawan’s most spectacular wonders, you could take a boat. If you opt for this option, make sure you don’t get seasick (or to pack your motion sickness medication) because the boat ride is around 3 and a half hours to get to El Nido.

After you’re traveling, you might want to take some time to settle down in your accommodation, maybe take a nap.

Explore El Nido Town Proper

When you are fully settled and ready to begin your El Nido adventure, you can take a walk around the El Nido Town Proper and see all the different colorful shops and street art lining the streets. Take a peek into the different stores and maybe grab a snack to nibble on before dinner.

Sunset Dinner at Bella Vita

When I came here with my bestie, we made our way down to Corong Corong Beach to have dinner at one of my favorite restaurants in El Nido: Bella Vita. This is one of my favorite restaurants on the island because it has such a great calming energy and a gorgeous view that you can appreciate as you eat some delicious Italian food.

If you need more time to recover from your traveling for the day, you could also choose to have a cozy night in and dine at your accommodation’s own restaurant if they have one!

DAY 2: Island Hopping (Tour C)

There are different island hopping tours that are available in El Nido, most tour services usually offer different variations of the same routes. There are 4 most common tours in El Nido which are Tour A, Tour B, Tour C, and Tour D.

For my bestie bonding trip, I thought that Tour C might be the best option for us.

Helicopter Island

Our first stop of the day was Helicopter Island. It was named this because the island resembles, you guessed it, a helicopter, when viewed from the side. We had a great time enjoying the quiet beach and made sure to have a bestie photoshoot session! We also explored the island and made our way to the other side of the island. Our guide told us that that side is a great spot for snorkeling because of the thriving aquatic life.

Hidden Beach

Next stop was Hidden Beach. Another picturesque place perfect for all your posts and stories about El Nido. It was so peaceful here, we couldn’t help but dive into the inviting clear blue water (and of course, take more photos). This beach is called the Hidden Beach, because you actually cannot see it during the rainy season. The tide gets so high that it covers the entire shoreline. The Hidden Beach feels very magical with the small opening welcoming you into that secret piece of land that is encompassed by such looming limestone rock formations. It almost feels like you’re on a movie set!

*Images courtesy of "Guide to the Philippines " All rights reserved to the original owners.*

Next, we had lunch on our boat – which was just in time because all the sightseeing, while beautiful, can also make you really hungry! The lunch was part of our tour package and prepared by our very talented tour guides. We feasted on grilled fish, pork, and chicken. We also had steamed mussels, squid, and shrimp. There was also a wide array of fruits and an eggplant salad to accompany our meal. But we can never forget the power of the Philippines – the white rice!

Secret Beach

After resting our tummies, we made our way to the 3rd stop of the day which was the Secret Beach.

Just a heads up that to get here, you have to go through a small tunnel to reach this beautiful place. Be careful when going inside especially if you go during high tide, watch your feet and make sure you don’t bump your head.

When we went, we were lucky enough to have it all to ourselves so we could really take our time floating in the gorgeous water. It felt like our tour guide reserved the whole area just for us. It was almost like it was our own little secret between us besties!

Matinloc Shrine

The Matinloc Shrine was our last stop for the day. This island is the home of a church that was established in 1986 but has now since become abandoned. It’s not your usual stop on an island hopping tour, definitely one you wouldn’t expect. But our tour guide took us to a great lookout spot which proved to be the perfect photo op! From here you could see the jagged limestone rocks and different formations that are scattered across the great blue sea.

Our tour guide also took us to the other side of the island where there is a small beach cove with the finest sand if I’ve ever seen in El Nido, which is really saying something since Palawan, and El Nido specifically, is quite known for its powder white sand beaches.

Dinner at Art Cafe

We capped off this day with a well deserved dinner at Art Cafe. Art Cafe has a very wide selection of food and cuisines on their menu. They are also more than just food and drinks. You can also buy your pasalubong here or any other beach gear that you might need. My bestie and I were looking for a hefty dinner after all our exploring, so here I got porkchop with rice and my friend got sausage with potatoes. They were delicious and it felt like the perfect way to end a great day.

DAY 3: Choose Your Own Adventure

Work From Beach Day

When I went with my bestie to El Nido, we actually dedicated our 3rd day to working. If you’re a digital nomad, you know how important it is to balance your work and play so you should always be responsible and make time for both. Traveling as a digital nomad, while exciting, can also be a bit daunting since there are different factors that you need to consider like will there be strong wifi where I go, while I have time to work and enjoy my stay?

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Using the third day to take some time for work is perfect if you are a digital nomad or if you are with one. But if you are in the mood to keep the energetic island vibe going then you can try booking another island hopping tour.

Island Hopping Day 2

If you want to learn more about Tours A-D and what they offer, check out this extensive El Nido tour guide that we created to help you better choose which is the perfect tour for you. You could also check out the Big Lagoon tour that Martin and I did which basically brought us to Entalula Island and the Big Lagoon – which is definitely a must-see attraction in El Nido. It was a very short and sweet island hopping experience. We were even able to have a romantic lunch on the beach before the resident lizards of the island started peeking out of the trees for a sniff of our lunch.

Watch our big Lagoon tour

Chill at Marimegmeg Beach

If you don’t want/need to work, and you aren’t in the mood for another island hopping tour, then you can make your way over to Marimegmeg Beach and just have a full island lazy day. There are also restaurants lining this beach so you can stay there the whole day without going hungry. Lay down on the white sand and tan or read a book, take a dip in the refreshing water, then watch the sun as it sets! El Nido has one of the best sunsets in the world, you just can’t miss out on this! You have to try to catch at least one sunset in El Nido, if not all of them for every night of your trip.

Speaking of sunsets…

DAY 4: Would You Rather - Chill at the Beach or Explore Some More?

Since this is the last full day at El Nido, some people might want to spend it differently. If you want to wind down as your trip comes to a close and just do something chill before your day of traveling tomorrow then a laid back day at Las Cabanas Beach might be the best option for you.

Catch the Sunset at Las Cabanas Beach

Like I said, El Nido has one of the best sunsets in the world, everyday is another treat for the senses. Las Cabanas Beach is probably the go to spot to experience this daily breathtaking spectacle. The colors of each sunset seem to be different everyday, and the water just triples its beauty. You end up feeling like you’re in a painting or a movie with CGI but there are no special effects, this is real life!

If you and your bestie (or more than bestie) love to seek out adventure, then maybe exploring the island with a land tour might be the better choice for you!

More Exploring with a Land Tour

If you really want to milk your trip then why not try this land tour that Martin and I went on the last time we were in El Nido in 2024, before Tokyo was born. We were able to make it to Bulalacao Waterfalls, Nacpan Beach, the Bucana fishing village, and Lio Beach. Martin loves when the tour guides are local Filipinas, it’s always a good time!

First we did a little hike to Bulalacao Waterfalls, Ave was 7 months pregnant at this time so the tour guide was kind enough to assist her and Martin who was also helping out. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes when doing this because you’ll have to do some river crossings. The waterfall washed away all our tiredness and Martin was able to do a 5 meter dive, after doing a depth check to make sure that it was safe enough to dive of course! After the waterfalls we made our way to Nacpan Beach. After all the swimming and lounging was a different type of stop on our tour.

Little Hike going to Bulalacao Waterfalls

Stopping at the Bucana fishing village was quite a unique experience because we were able to see a colorful array of different boats which are almost like cars to them. Out of the 18 barangays on the island, Bucana is the biggest with the most people living in it. We saw their raised houses to make room for more storage and to avoid floods and insects. We were also lucky enough to meet someone who was seasoned in making hooks to catch squid while we also saw someone painting names on their boats. It was a lovely quaint little experience.

Our last stop was Lio Beach which is right by the airport. The sand here is not as fine as the powdery white sand of the other beaches in El Nido but it is still pretty great. What’s nice about this beach is that it’s a great spot for any beginner surfers. The waves here tend to roll, making it perfect for longboard surfing.

Lio Beach

This land tour will definitely make you feel like you’ve maximized your stay at El Nido with all the sights that you were able to see, but if you choose to just chill at the beach that is a great way to wrap up your trip as well! Both options will make you feel like you’ve experienced all you could at El Nido. If you’re feeling ambitious, and start early, then you could maybe actually get to do both.

DAY 5: So Long and Farewell, El Nido

Sadly, it is time for you to pack up your things once more and return home. Hopefully you are closing your trip with good vibes and happy memories!

Depending on what time your flight is, you might still be able to sneak in one last dip in the water or do any last minute pasalubong shopping for yourself or anyone waiting for you back home. If you felt like there were still some things you missed out on on this trip, check out our post about the 12 must-do things in El Nido and start planning your next trip!

Where to Stay

Has the itinerary piqued your interest? Here are some possible accommodation options for you! El Nido has accommodations for different budget types, here are just a few.

Budget

Spin Designer Hostel

This hostel has a cool youthful energy. It is a hostel smack in the center of the El Nido Town Proper. Its location is definitely worth considering since it is near many shops, restaurants, and bars. There is also a shared kitchen and many chances to meet like-minded travelers. There are also different room types like dorm or private rooms, depending on what you are more comfortable with.

Book here : Link to booking page.

Frendz Hostel

Just like the name suggests, it is a great place to meet some fellow travelers and make new friends. This and Spin are some of the most popular hostels chosen by people traveling on a budget. Also located in El Nido Town Proper, Frendz is known for its clean facilities and multiple areas for just hanging out and meeting new people.

Book here : Link to booking page.

Happiness Hostel

Another very popular hostel choice for those traveling on a budget. Happiness Hostel has a very energetic vibe in its decor and shared spaces. One thing to note with Happiness though is that they do not have any private rooms, every room type is a mixed dormitory room though some offer balcony and even sea views.

Images courtesy of "Happiness Hostel El Nido " All rights reserved to the original owners.

Book here : Link to booking page.

Mid-Range

Happiness Boutique Resort

If you like the energy of Happiness, but are willing to spend a bit more or you want a private room, check out the Happiness Boutique Resort. This is a great option for two besties, a group of besties, you and your significant other, and even for families. Despite having private rooms, they also have a shared lounge in case you and your group feel like socializing and meeting new people. This is a very refreshing and breezy environment that has a slick look.

Book here : Link to booking page.

Panorama Resort

If you’re looking for the most instagram worthy spot, then this might just be it. Not only do you get a view of the beach but you can see the mountains in the distance as well for that sea to summit viewing experience. They have a lot of amenities including an indoor and outdoor pool, plus their own private stretch of beach. Lay back and kick your feet up as you watch the gorgeous sunset from this resort.

Book here : Link to booking page.

Luxury

Las Cabanas Beach Resort

Which came first, the name of the beach or the resort? Either way, this resort is very iconic due to its perfect spot on Las Cabanas Beach. Get a front row view of the sunset everyday of your stay here and watch the colors dance on the waves. This resort offers beachfront cottages and rooms with both garden and beach views. The Las Cabanas Beach Resort can also help you book your tours.

Book here : Link to booking page.

Places to Eat

Now, I’ve already mentioned some of my favorite spots here but let me give you a few other options and recommendations. Eating on your vacation is just one of the many important factors to consider before booking. Sprinkle these in or swap them out with the other recommendations given above during your stay. Let us know if you find any other great spots!

Happiness Beach Bar

Located under the Happiness Hostel, at the Happiness Beach Bar there is something for everyone. You can’t miss it because of the wooden swings that they have hanging from the ceiling. The entire place gives off a very vibrant island vibe. You can get some Mediterranean food and tapas here. This cafe serves some great breakfast and coffee, but it’s also a great spot for happy hour.

Book here : Link to booking page.

Big Bad Thai

This is an incredibly popular restaurant right on the waterfront. Its fame is well deserved because of the delicious Thai food that they offer. They have a lot of traditional Thai dishes to choose from, and a great view for you to eat them with. They also serve some great original cocktails if you are in the mood for a night cap with a view.

El Nido Plaza

At night in the El Nido Plaza, many food stalls open for you to choose from. The stalls offer a variety of food like fresh seafood, ihaw-ihaw, and many more! The beauty of the Plaza is that all the stalls surround a general seating area. This means that you can buy from all the stalls your heart (and stomach) desires and feast in the middle, also keeping you close to the stalls in case you are in the mood for seconds, thirds, or more!

Quick Tips

Here are a few quick tips and other things you might need to know for your El Nido vacation, especially if it’s your first time traveling there.

First, I got some tips for you specifically about island hopping.

Tips for Island Hopping

Check if snorkeling gear is included in the tour packages that you avail of because you should definitely dive into the waters of El Nido to be able to check out another side of its beauty: the thriving aquatic life. If there is no snorkel gear included, you can definitely rent some equipment or even make sure to pack your own.
Don’t forget to pack the essentials like sunscreen and water. It is important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the beams of the sun. You may also want to pack/purchase a waterproof aqua bag to place all your valuables so that they will be safe from the water throughout your entire island hopping journey. Make sure to also pack any motion sickness medicine or any other medicines that you might need throughout the day. You might also want to consider bringing bug spray because some of the beaches in Palawan are notorious for sand flies.
Renting a kayak costs extra money but it’s usually worth the purchase, especially if it's your first time in El Nido. The kayaks allow you to really take in the view and explore all the stops at your own pace.
If you are willing to spend, you may want to consider booking a private island hopping tour. This means that it would just be you and your group alone in the boat instead of having to share it with other people. This costs extra money as well but a bonus of this is that you have a more flexible tour, you can take your time in certain spots that you end up loving or you can ask your tour guide if you can do the tour in the reverse order to beat the crowds. An alternative to this would be to find a boat that leaves much earlier than the rest of the tour boats.

When to go

Generally, December to March offers a good time to visit El Nido. The weather won’t be too hot but it will still allow for your outdoor activities. Of course, coming in the summer around April or May, could also be fine but the heat might be too much for some people. This would also mean that the summer vacationers would come and it may get quite crowded.

More than just coming when the summer crowds aren’t here, try booking your trip during the weekdays so that the crowds aren’t too big when you visit all the famous spots.

Spontaneous Travel Plans?

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CLAYGO [clean as you go]

Always make sure to clean up after yourself wherever you go. Let us keep these beautiful places beautiful and free from any trash and pollution. Preserving these places makes sure that other people and future generations can continue to enjoy them.

Please also remember to be kind and respectful to the local community. These people were generous enough to let us visit their home, let us show them the respect they deserve.

Ending Notes

There is something about El Nido that keeps me in awe every time I see it no matter how many times I visit it. It’s one of a kind view never fails to amaze me, making me appreciate the wonders of nature and reminding me to slow down from the fast paced motions of everyday life.

I have always enjoyed solo traveling, but sometimes there are places that you just want to share with those you love, and El Nido continues to be that place for me. Spending time with people I love in places that I love is one of the many ways that I take care of my mental health.
You don’t have to come to El Nido with a significant other of course, you can always bring your family or your whole barkada. It’s better to be patient and wait for that special person to come than to just be with someone for the sake of being with someone. If you think you aren’t meeting someone with what you are doing now then maybe you need to do something you haven’t done before! Book that solo trip! This itinerary will still work great even if you are on a solo trip… and who knows? Maybe next time you come back you’ll have a special someone island hopping with you too. Safe travels!

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Ave’s 5 Day El Nido Itinerary for Besties (and More than Besties)

Table of Contents

Introduction

Want Me and My Team to Plan Your Dream El Nido Vacation?

Itinerary

Want a simple way to stay covered while traveling?

Where to Stay

Budget

Mid-Range

Luxury

Places to Eat

Quick Tips

Spontaneous Travel Plans?

Ending Notes

Ave’s 5 Day El Nido Itinerary for Besties (and More than Besties)

Table of Contents

Introduction

Want Me and My Team to Plan Your Dream El Nido Vacation?

Itinerary

Want a simple way to stay covered while traveling?

Where to Stay

Budget

Mid-Range

Luxury

Places to Eat

Quick Tips

Spontaneous Travel Plans?

Ending Notes

The Top 12 Essential Things to Do in El Nido

Marve’s Ultimate El Nido Island Hopping Tour Guide