Island Hopping in El Nido is an absolute must-do in the Philippines. Take a boat tour along the stunning lagoons and paradise islands in Bacuit Bay. The protected bay hosts 45 islands that belong to the most beautiful destination in the world. There are four El Nido island hopping tours that all take you along different islands. Read everything you need to know about the El Nido Tours.
El Nido Island Hopping Tours A-D
All well-rated island hopping tours include drinking water, snorkel gear, a kayak, the new (2019) environmental tax, and a delicious lunch on the beach. The lunch usually consists of fish & chicken, rice, eggplant salad, and freshly cut fruits. You can sometimes request collection from your hotel, too.
El Nido Tour A
Island Hopping Tour A takes you around Miniloc Island. Discover Secret Lagoon, kayak in the stunning and popular Big Lagoon, lunch at Shimizu Island, and experience sunset at 7-Commando Beach.
Costs: 1200 – 2200 PHP/Pax. (~ 23 – 42 USD)
Please note: You can’t bring any plastic bottles on the El Nido island hopping tours with you. Read more tips on how to reduce plastic while traveling.
El Nido Tour B
Sail to the white sandbank called Snake Island, Entalula Island, movie-like Pinagbuyutan Island, and the Cathedral & Cudugnon Caves.
Costs: 1200 – 1600 PHP/Pax. (~ 23 – 31 USD)
Good to know: Due to a new environmental policy, all combination and party boat tours are banned.
El Nido Tour C
Discover Hidden and Secret Beach, snorkel at Matinloc Shrine, and explore stunning Tapiutan and Helicopter Island. There is a big chance to see turtles on this tour in the Philippines.
Costs: 1200 – 1700 PHP/Pax. (~ 23 – 33 USD)
Please note: Smoking on the El Nido island hopping tours is prohibited.
El Nido Tour D
Swim in the popular Small Lagoon, go beach hopping around Cadlao Island (for good snorkeling) and visit Pasandigan Cove, Nat Nat Beach, and Bukal island. Costs: 1200 – 1500 PHP/Pax. (~ 23 – 30 USD)
Private island hopping tours in El Nido
The absolute best way to experience El Nido’s Bacuit Bay is by private boat. This way, you can avoid all tourists, combine the above locations, and create your own tour. This does have a price tag, but will be 100% worth your money. Book a private tour at ArtCafe.
Best Island Hopping Tour in El Nido
Which of these El Nido tours should you book? A few years ago, tour A and tour C were the most popular. However, due to recent changes to put less pressure on the environment, all tours are equally very impressive. We personally would recommend adding tours A, B, or D to your Philippines Travel Guide.
Where to book an El Nido Island Hopping Tour?
Since the new regulations in 2019, there is a limited amount of people per day that may enter Bacuit Bay. We recommend you book at least two days ahead to be sure you have a spot. There are a few things to keep an eye on while booking an El Nido boat tour. Book a tour online or in town at ArtCafe.
- Don’t go for the lowest price! The lowest-priced tours will mix you with another group, so they get a full boat. The quality of these tours can’t be guaranteed.
- Make sure drinking water is included because you are not allowed to take plastic bottles.
- Check if the tour includes the environmental tax. (200PHP) – Feb 2019
- Check if snorkeling gear & kayak are included.
- Try checking the company’s reviews on TripAdvisor.
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- Find Hotels via Booking.com
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- Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
- Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
- Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go
Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.
My family of 5 decided to do tour A using a private speed boat. How much do you suggest we tip the workers?
Hey! We’d usually opt for 10% of the total price but try to pay the workers directly and not the operator. 😊