15 best things to do in El Nido

Located at the northern tip of Palawan, an island province in the western Philippines, El Nido has a habit of being rated among the world’s most beautiful tropical destinations in the world, as a result of its limestone cliffs, crystal-clear lagoons, and rich marine life. Part of the Bacuit Archipelago, it boasts over 40 islands and islets, each offering a bounty of beautiful beaches, hidden coves, and turquoise waters. Inspired? Read on to discover the best things to do in El Nido. Spoiler alert: you’re spoiled for choice!

1. Bliss out on Nacpan beach

One of the best beaches in the Philippines, Nacpan is a stunning 4-kilometer stretch of golden sand fringed by palm trees and calm turquoise waters, about 45 minutes north of El Nido town. 

Despite its increasing popularity, Nacpan retains a peaceful, off-the-grid feel — there are a few beach bars, sunbeds, and local vendors, but no high-rise resorts. 

Activities around these parts include volleyball, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing with a fresh coconut in hand. 

If you're looking to stay overnight, a few beachside cottages and glamping tents are vailable for a rustic yet comfortable experience under the stars.

2. Kayak to Cadlao Lagoon

Located just off the coast from town, Cadlao Lagoon is one of El Nido’s most serene and underrated spots.

Unlike the more famous lagoons reached by boat tours, Cadlao can be visited by kayak directly from El Nido town or Caalan Beach. 

The paddle takes 30–45 minutes, and offers stunning views of Cadlao Island — the largest in Bacuit Bay. The lagoon itself features tranquil green water surrounded by limestone cliffs and mangroves. It’s perfect for peaceful paddling, snorkeling, or simply floating in the calm shallows. 

Into island life? Discover the best islands in the Philippines — Palawan and El Nido are among them. 

3. Hike to Taraw Cliff viewpoint

For the most breathtaking view in El Nido, climb Taraw Cliff, the jagged limestone peak that looms over the town. 

Though it's a pretty physically demanding hike, it’ll reward you with panoramic views of Bacuit Bay and the surrounding karst islands. 

There are two routes. First, the classic trail, a steep and rocky climb requiring gloves and a guide due to sharp rocks and exposure.

Meanwhile, the Canopy Walk is a safer, guided route with a suspension bridge and metal stairways, suitable for most travelers. 

For both options, wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water. 

4. Go rock climbing

El Nido’s dramatic limestone cliffs aren’t just pretty — they’re also excellent for rock climbing, with several established routes catering to beginners and experienced climbers, including options for bouldering, top-rope and lead climbing. 

The most popular climbing area is near Bacuit Bay and Taraw Cliff, where you’ll find bolted routes.

Most routes range from 5a to 6c in difficulty, making them accessible for climbers with varying levels of experience. 

Morning climbs are best to avoid the midday heat, and the dry season (November to May) offers more ideal conditions. 

Want more context on the weather? Read up on the best time to visit the Philippines.

5. Dive Bacuit Bay

Offering clear waters, diverse marine ecosystems, and excellent visibility, El Nido’s Bacuit Bay is home to over 30 dive sites boasting coral gardens, reef walls, tunnels and drop-offs. 

Popular dive spots include South Miniloc, known for sea turtles and schooling jacks, and Dilumacad Tunnel, an underwater cave for more advanced divers. 

The best season to dive around these parts is October to May — the sea is clearer and calmer through this period.

6. Snorkel off Las Cabanas Beach

While island-hopping tours are great for snorkeling, you can also enjoy great shore snorkeling at Las Cabanas Beach (AKA Marimegmeg Beach), just 15 minutes south of El Nido town. 

Bring your own gear or rent from beachfront vendors for a few hundred pesos. The water is typically calmer in the morning, and offers better visibility. 

After snorkeling, unwind at one of the beach bars or restaurants.

7. Take a hands-on cooking class

Doing a deep dive into Filipino food is one of the best things to do in the Philippines, with local cooking classes in El Nido coming highly recommended for foodies.

They typically take place in family homes or boutique kitchens, and kick off with a visit to the market, where you'll learn about regional ingredients like pandan, calamansi, and fresh seafood. 

Back in the kitchen, you’ll prepare traditional dishes like chicken adobo, sinigang (a sour tamarind soup), or kinilaw (Filipino-style ceviche), learning about local techniques.

8. Zipline over the ocean 

For a fast adrenaline hit with unforgettable views, try the Las Cabanas Zipline.

Located on the cliffs above Las Cabanas Beach, it runs over the sea from the mainland to a small island and back, either as a one-way or round-trip ride. 

You’ll glide high above the turquoise water with panoramic views of Bacuit Bay, the jungle coastline, and beachgoers below. 

At 30–45 seconds, it’s thrilling without being extreme, making it accessible for most ages and fitness levels, and you can take you pick from sitting or using a Superman-style harness. 

9. Explore Nagkalit-kalit waterfalls

Nature lovers wondering what to do in El Nido simply must visit Nagkalit-kalit Waterfalls. 

Located between El Nido town and Nacpan Beach, the trail here winds through rice fields, coconut groves, and shallow streams.

The falls themselves boast two tiers, with natural swimming pools at the base.

Pretty easy, and taking around 45 minutes one way, it’s an easy and sublimely scenic way to while away a morning. 

Discover more options for fun adventure holidays in the Philippines.

10. Soak up sunset at Las Cabanas beach

Few places in the Philippines rival Las Cabanas Beach’s sunset views  

Located just a short tricycle ride (15 minutes) from El Nido town, this west-facing beach offers front-row seats to spectacular golden-hour displays as the sun dips behind the Bacuit Archipelago. 

The beach is wide and laid-back, with swaying palms and calm water, making it perfect for lounging until dusk, and beyond, with several beachfront bars and restaurants serving cocktails and live music in the evenings. 

For the full experience, arrive around 4pm, enjoy the beach, and linger through twilight. 

12. Visit the Ille Cave archaeological site

Reached in around an hour from El Nido town, New Ibajay’s Ille Cave offers a thrilling glimpse into Palawan’s prehistoric past. 

The site features a dramatic limestone cave complex that’s yielded significant archaeological discoveries through the years, including 12,000-year-old human remains, tools, pottery and animal bones. 

Guided tours take you through the main cave chambers, highlighting excavation areas and ancient burial grounds, and there’s also a short (but steep) hike to the viewpoint above the cave. 

12. Beachside yoga

Given its sublime, chilled tropical setting El Nido is the perfect place to devote time to wellness activities, and several beachfront and jungle studios offer daily drop-in yoga sessions that enable you to indulge in exactly that.

Take your pick from gentle Hatha and Vinyasa flows to meditation and breathwork, often with stunning views of the ocean or cliffs that make it easy to slow down.

Some resorts also offer spa treatments and massages.

On the subject of resorts, find out more about Philippines accommodation. 

13. Shop for local arts and crafts

Located near Lio Beach, Kalye Artisano is an artisan village that showcases Palawan’s creative soul.

There’s no better place to pick up unique souvenirs, and support local artisans, with boutiques and studios offering locally made art, textiles, pottery, jewellery and home décor. 

Everything is crafted by Filipino artists, which means you’ll also be supporting sustainable and ethical businesses. 

Also look out for workshops, including painting, weaving, and natural dyeing classes, so you can get hands on.

14. Tuck into local cuisine in local eateries

Experiencing the local food scene is a must-do in El Nido, and most places see Filipino flavors melded with international cuisine.

For a relaxed but authentic dining experience, try Artcafe, a long-standing favorite near the port offering locally sourced seafood, Palawan honey, tropical smoothies, and vegetarian options in a breezy bamboo setting. 

For something more upscale, Tambok’s El Nido stands out for its beautifully plated, locally inspired dishes like lechon kawali, kilawin, and buko pie in a chic, tropical space. 

15. Watch wildlife at Sibaltan

Located on the eastern coast of El Nido, Sibaltan is a peaceful fishing village that invites wildlife-lovers to explore mangrove forests and rice fields, with coastal wetlands boasting dozens of bird species.

Beyond taking a guided birdwatching tour, the area is also rich in traditional village life — it’s a place to see local fishing techniques, boat-building and community farming in action.

If that wasn’t enough, Sibaltan is a great base for day trips to Maosonon Island and Daracoton Island, and it’s especially beloved by travelers who enjoy slow, nature-based travel 

Inspired to visit? Ahead of your trip, read our Philippines travel tips, and wise up on getting around the Philippines so you can plan how to see more of the country during your vacation.

Not keen on planning? Contact our local Philippines travel experts. They can curate every last detail on your dream Philippines itinerary.