🚐 Morning Pick-Up
Your day starts with a hotel or designated meet-up point pick-up in El Nido town or nearby areas. You’ll be taken to the tour operator's office or the beachfront for registration. Here, you’ll settle the environmental fee (if not already paid), pick up your snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins, life vest), and receive a short safety briefing.
Stop 1: Big Lagoon
Your first stop is the majestic Big Lagoon, one of El Nido’s most iconic attractions. You’ll either kayak (available for rent) or boat into the lagoon through a narrow entrance. Inside, you’ll find clear, calm waters perfect for paddling or swimming, with towering cliffs rising dramatically on both sides. It’s a peaceful and breathtaking experience—ideal for photos and nature appreciation.
Stop 2: Secret Lagoon
Next is Secret Lagoon, hidden behind a limestone wall. To enter, you’ll crawl or walk through a small hole in the rock, leading to a quiet inner lagoon surrounded by high cliffs. It feels like discovering a hidden world. This spot is best explored during low tide and involves some walking on rocks, so water shoes are helpful.
Stop 3: Payong-Payong Beach
After the lagoons, you'll visit Payong-Payong Beach, a small, scenic strip of white sand tucked beside limestone cliffs. It’s a great place for a short rest, a swim, and sunbathing. This beach is less crowded than others and offers a peaceful vibe, perfect for relaxing or snapping photos.
Lunch Stop: Shimizu Island
Then, you’ll head to Shimizu Island, known for its beautiful coral reefs and snorkeling spots. While you explore the underwater life, the boat crew prepares a freshly grilled lunch. The typical island lunch includes grilled fish, chicken, pork, rice, vegetables, and fresh fruit. After lunch, you can snorkel more or relax on the beach under the trees.
Final Stop: Papaya Beach or Seven Commandos Beach
To wrap up the day, you’ll visit either Papaya Beach or Seven Commandos Beach, depending on conditions and tour scheduling.
- Papaya Beach: Quieter and more secluded, with excellent snorkeling right from the shore.
- Seven Commandos Beach: More popular, with a long sandy shore, volleyball, palm trees, and a beach bar selling fresh coconuts and drinks.
This is your last chance to swim, lounge, or play beach games before heading back.
Return to El Nido
In the late afternoon, the boat returns to El Nido town. You’ll be dropped off at the beach or the tour operator’s base. From there, transfers back to your hotel are usually available, or you can stroll around town for a post-tour snack or massage.
