El Nido

About city El Nido

Travel Guide to El Nido, Phillipines

El Nido, in the Philippines' Palawan province, is a stunning area known for its natural beauty and vibrant culture. This town is famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs and clear blue waters, as well as its variety of wildlife. Places like Bacuit Bay are not only gorgeous but also protected marine reserves. If you're interested in cultural experiences, check out the local customs. You can join in community celebrations and festivals, try your hand at making native crafts, and listen to traditional music. El Nido has a long history shaped by years of trade and colonization but manages to keep a good balance between preserving nature and welcoming tourists. For adventure seekers, kayaking through the Small Lagoon or snorkeling in Big Lagoon are must-dos. If you're up for a challenge, climbing Taraw Cliff provides spectacular views. Make sure to taste the local food at beachside eateries or join an eco-tour to see how El Nido works on being sustainable. El Nido is perfect for lying on untouched beaches or embarking on thrilling exploits. It caters to those looking to unwind as well as thrill-seekers—making it an appealing place for all kinds of visitors. Why wait? Discover what makes El Nido a captivating blend of nature and culture.

History and Culture of El Nido

El Nido, once known as Bacuit during the time of Spanish rule, has grown from a tiny fishing village to a favorite spot for lovers of nature and history. The influence of Spanish colonizers brought Christianity and new cultural aspects to the city. Additionally, Japanese forces during World War II left behind underwater shipwrecks that now draw scuba divers. In El Nido, local traditions are vibrant with various festivals. A key event is the Pagdiwata Ritual Festival which features dance and music performances in honor of local deities called "diwata." This festival plays a big role in keeping the community together. Don’t miss out on the Palay Festival either; it celebrates rice planting and highlights the region’s deep farming heritage. But there's more to El Nido than just stunning landscapes; it’s also rich with historical sites. Make sure to visit Cudugnon Cave, used as a shelter during World War II and thought to be an old burial site. A guided tour there can teach you about how these caves have supported local survival through many generations.

Cuisine and Dining in the City

El Nido is a wonderful place for people who love food, featuring local Filipino meals and lots of fresh seafood. You can enjoy delicious flavors like lobster, squid, and different kinds of fish that are usually the stars of the menu here. Make sure to taste "Adobo," which is meat marinated in vinegar and soy sauce, and "Sinigang," a sour soup that both locals and visitors love. As you explore El Nido, try some street food like "isaw" (grilled skewers) or sweet "turon" (banana fritters). If you prefer sitting down for a meal, Altrove Trattoria offers great Italian dishes in a comfortable setting with prices ranging from PHP 300-500 per person. Another nice option is Habibi Restaurant & Shisha Cafe where Middle Eastern cuisine can be enjoyed along with beach views. You'll also find cozy cafés tucked away from the main roads serving delicious local coffee at good prices. The Lonesome Carabao Lounge is a good spot to unwind with tacos and cocktails. Eating by the sea during boat tours makes dining in El Nido truly memorable. Meals prepared on your boat often include fresh seafood, making both eating and traveling more enjoyable. If you're into cooking or want fresh ingredients, head to the public market near the town center open every morning. It's affordable and gives a peek into daily life while offering local produce.

El Nido Shopping and Markets

The town features markets and small shops that sell local products ideal for souvenirs and gifts. Look out for special handmade items like woven bags and hats made from local materials at places like El Nido Boutique & Artcafe. This store also offers a good variety of local art, crafts, and eco-friendly items. If you want practical souvenirs, check out the Lio Tourism Estate. There are several shops there selling high-quality beachwear to handmade jewelry in a cozy environment. Haggling is common at local markets but not as much in fixed-price boutiques and specialty stores. For a truly local experience with some lively haggling, visit the El Nido Public Market. Here you can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood that are staples in El Nido’s cuisine. Be aware that shop hours might be shorter than what you're used to in big cities, so plan your visits well. Also, remember that many smaller shops only take cash while larger ones may accept various payment methods. 

Outdoor and Recreational Activities in and near El Nido

El Nido is a great place for both fun adventures and chilling out, all set in a beautiful natural area. If you like exploring, you should try the guided tours to the Big Lagoon on Miniloc Island. These tours are easy for everyone and really good for families. You can kayak and swim while boats from El Nido town take you there. For those who want a bit more excitement, climbing Taraw Cliff is a good option. It's a thrilling but steep climb, so it might not be best for small kids or pets. But the views of Bacuit Bay and El Nido from the top are amazing. Getting to the start of the climb is easy in El Nido. If you just want to relax, head over to Las Cabanas Beach. It’s calm and ideal for lying in the sun or watching stunning sunsets. A short tricycle ride from El Nido town center will get you there. Also, make sure to go to Nacpan Beach. You can play beach volleyball or just hang out by the water—it’s about 45 minutes away by car from El Nido town and you can get there using local transport. Finally, check out Mangrove Eco Park for simple walks that anyone can do. This park helps keep local mangroves safe and it's only a quick drive from downtown El Nido.

El Nido Nightlife and Entertainment

El Nido's nightlife is exciting and open to everyone, locals and tourists alike. The town feels laid-back, with bars and places that have live music, great for relaxing after a day of seeing beautiful views. If you like having drinks while watching the sunset, go to Sava Beach Bar for some cocktails by the ocean. If you're into reggae music, don't miss Pukka Bar which is famous for its reggae nights. For those interested in cultural activities, El Nido has various festivals throughout the year that show off local arts and traditions. Make sure to experience the El Nido Festival in December with its music, traditional dances, and parades that celebrate the local culture. Try planning your visit during these festivals or spend an evening enjoying live music at a bar to really get a feel for what El Nido has to offer. It's smart to stay somewhere central as it makes getting back to your place easier after an evening out.

Transportation and Getting Around the City

The tricycle is the best way for short trips in town because it's affordable and handy. If you're traveling with others or going farther, you might want to rent a van. You can do this through your hotel or local tour companies. For those who prefer exploring by themselves, renting a motorbike lets you travel freely. You'll also find jeepneys running set routes in El Nido and nearby areas. This choice is budget-friendly if you want to see more places. Just make sure to check their schedule as it may vary. To reach quieter spots like Nacpan Beach directly, think about hiring a private tricycle or joining a small group tour to make things easier. For longer journeys, taxi services are available via apps like Grab, but they aren't as common as in big cities. Always agree on the price before starting your ride to avoid surprises. For great views, consider biking along Corong-Corong Bay at sunset. Also, don’t miss out on the boat tours; they are crucial for visiting El Nido’s famous lagoons and islands and lots of local outfits offer these tours.

Accommodation Options in El Nido

El Nido has a variety of accommodation options suitable for any budget, making it ideal for backpackers who want both fun and affordability. You can pick from basic hostels to more upscale hotels. For those looking to save money, many hostels offer clean rooms with shared bathrooms at low prices. It's smart to find a place to stay that is affordable and close to beaches and places where tours begin. Many inexpensive accommodations are located downtown, near local eateries, shops, and transportation services. These places often provide free Wi-Fi, kitchens for guest use, and common areas where you can meet other travelers without spending too much. Booking early is important in El Nido, especially during peak seasons. Websites like Booking.com or Hostelworld display reviews, availability, and pricing which help you choose the best option. It’s also useful to read what others have said about the cleanliness and service on these websites.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

El Nido has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season, from December to May, is great for those who like sunny weather and is perfect for visiting islands and beaches. This time is also the most crowded, especially from December to February when it's cooler with temperatures between 25°C and 31°C. But if you don't mind some rain and prefer fewer people around, with the chance of finding cheaper hotels and tours, consider visiting between June and November. Keep in mind that from July to September, there can be heavy rain which might affect your plans. December is a special month in El Nido as they celebrate their foundation day with cultural shows and local food. When you choose to visit El Nido really depends on what you prefer in terms of weather or how many people are around. For good weather suited for outdoor activities, late December to early May is ideal. If you like less crowded times but still want okay weather for activities, think about visiting in November or late May.

Local Tips and Advice

Show respect for the environment, especially in protected areas. Make sure not to harm sea creatures when you're snorkeling or diving. Always use certified tour companies and boats when going on island trips. To get a real feel for local life, consider joining tours run by the community. You might get to fish in a traditional way or cook with local ingredients. This lets you see how locals live every day and also supports their economy. If you’re curious about less-known places in El Nido, ask local guides for advice. Websites like ChoosePhilippines.com can point out secret spots and tell you how to visit them responsibly. Apps like “Visit Philippines” offer up-to-date travel tips and recommendations from locals. For those who like using social media, early mornings or late afternoons are perfect times to take photos with great natural lighting at quiet beaches or lagoons without many people around. Being active on platforms like Instagram can enhance your experience and help you meet other travelers who might share some undiscovered spots.