El Nido Island Hopping Guide: Tour A, B, C, or D?

Confused by the letters? We compare El Nido Tour A, B, C, and D to help you decide which island hopping tour is best for your 2026 trip.

Which Tour is Best? El Nido Island Hopping Guide

Breaking Down the 4 Iconic Routes

The magic of El Nido island hopping lies in its variety. With 45 islands and 4 standardized routes, choosing the right one can be tricky. We have ranked them based on popularity, scenery, and uniqueness to answer the ultimate question: Tour A, B, C, or D?

4-1 The Must-Do

Tour A (Lagoons & Beaches)
If you only have one day, pick this one. It features the world-famous Big Lagoon.

• Best For First Timers
  El Nido Tour A is the quintessential Palawan experience. It combines the thrill of kayaking through the towering walls of the Big Lagoon with relaxing beach time at Seven Commandos Beach. It offers the classic limestone karst scenery that El Nido is famous for.
  – Key Stops: Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Secret Lagoon, Seven Commandos Beach.
  – Vibe: majestic, popular, scenic.

4-2 The Explorer

Tour C (Hidden Gems & Shrines)
The best route for snorkeling and discovering secret spots.

• Best For Snorkelers
  El Nido Tour C is often voted as the most beautiful by repeat visitors. The water clarity at Matinloc Shrine and Helicopter Island is unmatched. The adventure of swimming through a hole to get to Secret Beach is a highlight you won’t forget.
  – Key Stops: Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Helicopter Island, Secret Beach.
  – Vibe: adventurous, underwater-focused, mysterious.

4-3 The Relaxed

Tour B (Caves & Sandbars)

4-4 The Quiet

Tour D (Beaches & Cadlao)