El Nido: Island Hopping TOUR A with Lunch, Transfer & EDTF

Five stops, one long day on Bacuit Bay. El Nido Tour A packs Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Payong-Payong Beach, and Seven Commandos Beach into an eight-hour boat trip. I like the mix of calm swimming, snorkeling, limestone cliffs, and sandy beaches, rather than spending the whole day at one crowded stop.

I also like that the $50 price includes lunch, drinking water, boat transport, the lagoon fee, environmental fee, life vests, a guide, and pickup within El Nido Town Proper. The main concern is unclear transport outside the town center, along with extra charges for snorkeling equipment and kayaks.

The guides are described as friendly and entertaining, which matters on a long day at sea. Still, I would confirm your pickup in writing, check the condition of any rented kayak, and bring water shoes plus a waterproof bag.

Key points to know before booking

• Big Lagoon sets the tone: You get an hour among tall limestone walls and clear blue water on Miniloc Island.
• Secret Lagoon requires care: The entrance involves a rocky, cave-like passage, and you may need to watch your head and footing.
• Shimizu Island is the lunch stop: Expect time for eating, swimming, photographs, and snorkeling near shore.
• Payong-Payong is the quiet pause: There are no listed sports here, so this is your chance to swim, rest, and take photographs.
• Seven Commandos adds a classic beach finish: Its white sand, coconut trees, and cliffs make it a good final stop.
• The price is strongest inside El Nido Town Proper: Transfers from other areas, masks, fins, and kayaks are not included.

What the $50 tour really includes

At $50 per person, this is a reasonably complete day on the water. Your fare covers the motorized boat, a local guide, lunch on an island, drinking water, a life vest, the lagoon fee, and the environmental fee. Those included charges matter in El Nido, where a low advertised price can become less attractive once permits and port costs are added.

The tour also includes roundtrip pickup and return to hotels within El Nido Town Proper only. That boundary is important. Hotels in Lio, Nampac Beach, and the Meregmeg area are specifically excluded, so you may need to arrange and pay for your own transport to the port.

The practical problem is not simply the extra fare. Pickup instructions have caused confusion, especially for people staying outside the town center. One party expected a van but was met by a tuk-tuk and was asked for 250 pesos. Another had to sort out competing arrangements for the return journey after the boat came back.

I would send your exact hotel name and location before the tour. Ask clearly if pickup and return are included, what vehicle will come, and if there is any added charge. Do not assume that the general phrase pickup included covers every part of El Nido.

Leaving El Nido for Miniloc Island

The day begins with a hotel pickup, followed by a motorized boat ride toward the islands of Bacuit Bay. The total experience lasts about eight hours, so this is not a quick morning outing. You will spend much of the day in sun, salt water, and wet beachwear.

A life vest is provided on board. Bring a towel, sunscreen, swimwear, flip-flops, and a hat. I would add water shoes, a waterproof phone pouch, and a dry bag for clothes and electronics. Waterproof bags are easy to find around El Nido, and they are useful when boarding from the beach or moving between the boat and shallow water.

The provider describes the day as suitable for children, older people, and people with disabilities. That is helpful, but the actual conditions are not completely smooth. The Secret Lagoon has rocks and a narrow entry passage, and the boat-to-beach transfers may involve wading. Anyone needing firm, level access should confirm the arrangements before paying.

The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people over 95 years old. The activity is offered with an English-speaking guide.

Big Lagoon: the grand opening on Miniloc Island

Big Lagoon is usually the visual centerpiece of Tour A. It sits on Miniloc Island and is enclosed by high limestone cliffs. The water and rock walls create the postcard view many people associate with El Nido.

You get about one hour here for a visit and photographs. The scale is the point. Instead of a small cove, you enter a broad waterway framed by steep stone walls. The blue water, pale rock, and open sky give you plenty to look at even if you choose not to swim.

Kayaks may be available here, but kayaks are not included in the tour price. The same applies to snorkeling masks and fins. Ask about the cost before taking equipment, and inspect anything you rent. A damaged kayak can turn a relaxing paddle into a safety problem.

One rented kayak was reported to have a hole that allowed water into the cockpit and eventually caused it to sink. That does not mean every kayak is unsafe, but it is a good reason to check the hull, seat, and drainage area before leaving shore. If something looks damaged, ask for another one immediately.

Secret Lagoon: a short passage with a big payoff

Secret Lagoon sits behind limestone cliffs on Miniloc Island. The boat stops near a white sand beach on the southern side of the island, and you make your way toward the concealed pool.

The entrance is the memorable part. You pass through a rocky opening that feels like a natural doorway. At high tide, you need to pay close attention to your head. At low tide, you can wade more easily into the entrance, though rocks may still be slippery.

This is where water shoes earn their place in your bag. Flip-flops can shift on wet rock, while bare feet are not ideal around sharp or uneven surfaces. Keep your phone protected, too, since the approach may involve shallow water.

The stop allows swimming and kayaking, depending on conditions and availability. You have about an hour, which gives you time to see the lagoon without making this the only focus of the day. The setting is enclosed and unusual, but it may feel less restful than Payong-Payong because of the rocky entry and limited space.

If you have mobility concerns, ask for a clear description of the route before booking. The tour is presented as accessible to people with disabilities, but the passage itself can be challenging.

Shimizu Island: lunch, fish, and a little shade

Shimizu Island is the scheduled lunch stop and one of the more useful breaks in the day. It has a white sand beach, clear water, colorful fish, and shade from the surrounding limestone cliffs.

Lunch is included. You can eat on the island, then use the remaining time for swimming, photographs, or snorkeling near shore. The supplied gear does not include a mask or fins, so bring your own if you want to see the coral and fish properly.

The island’s name is linked to a local story about a scuba diver called Shimizu, whose remains were found after he disappeared while exploring underwater tunnels nearby. It is a small detail, but it gives the stop more character than a simple beach name.

Food service may not be perfectly smooth. One party reported running short of forks, with the replacement arriving after much of the meal had gone. I would bring a small travel utensil if you have one, or at least hand sanitizer and tissues. Drinking water is included, but you should still arrive with enough water for the full day.

The lunch stop works well because it breaks up the swimming and boat time. Just do not expect a restaurant-style meal or polished table service. This is an island picnic during a busy day at sea.

Payong-Payong Beach: the place to slow down

Payong-Payong Beach is on the southern side of Miniloc Island. It has clear water, pale sand, unusual rock formations, cliffs, and trees that provide shade.

This stop is less about organized activity and more about taking a breath. No sports or special activities are listed here. You can swim, sit on the beach, take pictures, or simply enjoy a quieter hour before the final stop.

The water is described as gentle and good for swimming. Snorkeling is also possible, with fish and coral in the clear shallows. Bring reef-safe, biodegradable sunscreen, since the tour visits sensitive marine areas and the water is part of the main attraction.

Payong-Payong is a good match for you if you prefer scenery and downtime over constant action. It is also a useful place to dry off, reapply sunscreen, and check your belongings. The sun in El Nido can be strong, and the day offers few chances to escape it completely.

Seven Commandos Beach: the sandy finale

Seven Commandos Beach is about 320 meters long and lined with coconut trees and limestone cliffs. Although it is technically connected to the El Nido mainland, you can reach it on this tour only by boat, which gives the beach a more remote feel.

The stop lasts about an hour and allows swimming, kayaking, photographs, and beach time. It is a classic finish: white sand, warm water, palms, and high rock walls. If you have been sitting in a boat for much of the day, the open beach gives you room to stretch out.

The beach name has several explanations. One story connects it with stranded soldiers. Other versions refer to a fishing vessel or a carved stone found by local people. You will not need to solve the mystery to enjoy the shore, but the competing stories are part of the island’s local character.

Kayaks are extra here as well. If you plan to use one, agree on the fee first and inspect it before setting off. A prior rental cost 500 pesos for three people, but that should not be treated as a guaranteed current rate.

Snorkeling, turtles, and what to pack

The main snorkeling areas are Shimizu Island and Payong-Payong Beach, where you may see fish and coral in clear water. The tour also highlights the chance of seeing sea turtles, though wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.

Bring your own mask and fins if you already have them. Rental gear is excluded, and a poor-fitting mask can waste much of your limited time in the water. If you do rent equipment, check the fit before the boat leaves.

Your basic packing list should include:

• Swimwear and a towel
• Reef-safe or biodegradable sunscreen
• Sun hat and sunglasses
• Water shoes for Secret Lagoon
• Flip-flops for the beach
• Waterproof bags for phones and dry clothes
• Hand sanitizer or tissues
• Snorkeling gear, if you have it

Alcohol and drugs are not allowed. Smoking on a small gasoline-powered boat is also a poor idea, and you should speak up if anyone attempts it.

The guide and crew can shape the whole day

A friendly crew makes a difference on an eight-hour trip. The guides are described as helpful and entertaining, and that light touch is valuable when the day includes boarding, swimming, lunch, gear, and several timed stops.

Still, good personalities do not replace clear communication. Confirm the environmental fee, because it is included in the stated price. One person was asked for an additional 400 pesos despite already having paid it. Keep your booking details available and politely ask for an explanation before paying anything extra.

The tour has a published rating of 4 out of 5 from seven reviews, which suggests a generally positive but not flawless experience. The strongest praise centers on the attractive stops, friendly crew, and enjoyable overall day. The weaker points concern transport confusion, equipment condition, and lunch service.

That is a fair picture of the tour. The scenery does most of the heavy lifting, but the practical details deserve attention.

Who will get the best value from this day?

I would recommend Tour A if you want El Nido’s major lagoon and beach sights in one organized outing. It suits first-time visitors who have only a short stay and want a broad introduction to Bacuit Bay without arranging separate boats, permits, lunch, and port transfers.

Families may appreciate the included life vests, English-speaking guide, and varied stops. Older people can enjoy the beaches and boat scenery, but anyone with mobility limitations should ask specifically about the rocky Secret Lagoon entrance and beach boarding.

This is less suitable for you if you want a quiet private boat, long uninterrupted snorkeling sessions, or complete control over the schedule. Five stops in eight hours means the day moves along. You will get a taste of each place, not hours at one reef.

It also may not be the best choice if your hotel is outside El Nido Town Proper and you dislike arranging local transport. The $50 value becomes less clear once you add transfers, masks, fins, or kayaks.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure, and you can reserve now while paying later. Check the available starting time before booking, since the activity lasts about eight hours.

Should you book El Nido Tour A?

Book it if you want the famous El Nido highlights in one full day, especially Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, and Seven Commandos Beach. The included lunch, environmental fee, boat, guide, and town pickup make $50 a sensible price for a first visit.

Before you commit, send the hotel address and get the pickup arrangement confirmed. Bring water shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, your own snorkeling gear if possible, and a waterproof bag. If you plan to kayak, inspect the boat and settle the price first.

I would choose this tour for convenience and variety, not for luxury or perfect organization. The islands are the real reward, while transport and equipment require a little attention from you.

FAQ

How long does El Nido Tour A last?

The tour lasts about eight hours, including the boat trip and stops at five island and beach destinations.

What locations does the tour visit?

The tour visits Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Payong-Payong Beach, and Seven Commandos Beach.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Island lunch and drinking water are included in the tour price.

Is hotel pickup included?

Roundtrip pickup and return are included only for hotels within El Nido Town Proper. Hotels in Lio, Nampac Beach, and the Meregmeg area are excluded.

Are snorkeling masks and fins included?

No. Snorkeling masks and fins are not included, so you need to bring your own or arrange rental equipment.

Is kayaking included?

No. Kayaks are not included in the price and require an additional payment if available.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, biodegradable sunscreen, a hat, flip-flops, beachwear, water shoes, snorkeling gear if you have it, and hand sanitizer or tissues.

Can pregnant women join the tour?

No. The tour is listed as unsuitable for pregnant women and people over 95 years old.