El Nido Tour A is the most iconic island hopping experience in the Philippines — and arguably in all of Southeast Asia. Famous for the jade-green Big Lagoon, the mysterious Small Lagoon, and the hidden Secret Lagoon, Tour A consistently tops traveller rankings as the must-do activity in El Nido, Palawan.
In this complete 2026 guide, we cover every stop on Tour A, updated entrance fees, what to expect at each site, practical tips, and whether it’s worth it for first-time visitors.
Table of Contents
What Is El Nido Tour A?
Tour A is a full-day boat tour (approximately 6–7 hours) that departs from El Nido town and visits 4–5 sites across the Bacuit Archipelago. The tour departs around 9:00 AM and returns around 4:00–5:00 PM. It’s operated by licensed tour operators in El Nido town and includes lunch on a beach.
Tour A at a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Duration | ~6–7 hours (full day) |
| Departure | ~9:00 AM from El Nido town beach |
| Return | ~4:00–5:00 PM |
| Group size | Up to 15 per shared boat |
| Shared boat price (2026) | ₱1,200–₱1,500 per person |
| Private boat price (2026) | ₱6,000–₱10,000 for the boat |
| Entrance fees | ₱200 + ₱500 environmental fee (first-time visitors) |
| Included | Boat, guide, lunch, snorkelling gear |
| Best for | First-timers, photography, kayaking, snorkelling |
El Nido Tour A Stops: Complete Breakdown
Tour A typically visits the following stops, though the exact order may vary depending on your operator and sea conditions:
1. Big Lagoon
The Big Lagoon is the highlight of Tour A and one of the most photographed spots in the Philippines. A narrow channel cuts through towering limestone karst cliffs, opening into a calm, shallow lagoon of vivid emerald-green water.
What to do: Kayak through the channel and explore the inner lagoon. Kayaks are included in the tour price. Swimming is permitted in designated areas. The water is crystal clear — visibility can reach 10–15 metres on a calm day.
Tips: Go early in your tour rotation if possible — Big Lagoon gets crowded by mid-morning. Bring a waterproof bag or drybag for your phone. The channel entrance is shallow; you’ll need to duck low in the kayak.
2. Small Lagoon
The Small Lagoon is accessed through an even narrower channel in the limestone cliff — so tight you’ll need to duck and squeeze through on your kayak. Inside, you’re rewarded with a completely enclosed lagoon surrounded by sheer rock walls, with electric-blue water and a cathedral-like atmosphere.
What to do: Kayak through the entrance passage and explore the enclosed lagoon. Swimming is popular here. The cliffs trap sound and light in a unique way — it feels otherworldly at midday when the sun is directly overhead.
Tips: The channel is very narrow and can be slippery. Follow your guide’s instructions. The Small Lagoon is slightly less crowded than the Big Lagoon, so this is a good place to linger.
3. Secret Lagoon
The Secret Lagoon lives up to its name: access is through a small hole in the limestone rock face at beach level, which you pass through on foot (not by kayak). Inside is a shallow tidal lagoon surrounded by towering cliffs and dense vegetation — a truly secluded spot.
What to do: Enter through the rock passage and explore the lagoon on foot. The water level varies with the tide. Look out for small reef fish, starfish, and sea urchins in the shallows. Photography is exceptional here — the contrast between the dark rock passage and the bright lagoon is stunning.
Tips: Wear water shoes or reef shoes — the rocks inside are sharp and slippery. The passage can be waist-deep at high tide. Visit during mid-to-low tide for the easiest access and most scenic interior.
4. Shimizu Island
Shimizu Island is a small, uninhabited island with one of the best snorkelling reefs on Tour A. The island itself has a white sand beach surrounded by pristine coral gardens and abundant marine life. Most Tour A itineraries include a snorkelling stop here.
What to do: Snorkel over the reef (gear is included in the tour). Look for sea turtles, clownfish, parrotfish, and large schools of reef fish. The beach is narrow but beautiful for a short swim or rest.
Tips: Shimizu has the best coral coverage of the Tour A stops. Don’t touch or stand on the coral. Snorkelling fins give a significant advantage here — ask your guide if they’re available.
5. 7 Commandos Beach (Lunch Stop)
Most Tour A boats stop at 7 Commandos Beach (or a similar beach) for a BBQ lunch. The beach is long, white-sand, and lined with palm trees — a classic tropical paradise setting. Named after seven WWII soldiers who used it as a hideout, it’s now one of the most popular lunch beaches in El Nido.
What to do: Enjoy your included lunch (usually grilled fish, rice, fresh fruit, and seasonal vegetables). Swim, relax on the beach, and explore the shoreline. Beach volleyball and beach games are sometimes available.
Tips: Food stalls and drinks are available on the beach if you want extras. Don’t leave your valuables unattended in the boat. The beach can get crowded during peak season (December–May) — aim to eat early if your group is large.
Tour A Stop Comparison Table
| Stop | Activity | Best For | Crowd Level | Time Spent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Big Lagoon | Kayaking, swimming | Photography, kayaking | High (peak season) | 45–60 min |
| Small Lagoon | Kayaking, swimming | Unique atmosphere, couples | Medium | 30–45 min |
| Secret Lagoon | Walking, photography | Hidden gem, tidal exploration | Low–Medium | 20–30 min |
| Shimizu Island | Snorkelling, beach | Marine life, snorkellers | Medium | 30–45 min |
| 7 Commandos Beach | Lunch, beach, swim | Relaxation, food | High | 60–90 min |
El Nido Tour A Prices 2026
Prices vary depending on whether you book through your hotel, a local tour operator, or an online platform. Here’s what to expect in 2026:
| Booking Type | Price (per person) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shared boat (operator) | ₱1,200–₱1,500 | Up to 15 pax; most common option |
| Shared boat (hotel booked) | ₱1,400–₱1,800 | Slight markup for convenience |
| Private boat | ₱6,000–₱10,000/boat | Split among 2–6 people; flexible schedule |
| Environmental fee | ₱500 | One-time fee, valid for all tours in El Nido |
| Tour entrance fees | ₱200 | Collected at the sites |
Pro tip: The ₱500 Environmental User Fee (EUF) is paid once and covers all tours during your stay. Keep your receipt — you’ll need to show it at checkpoints.
What to Bring on El Nido Tour A
- Waterproof bag or dry bag — essential for your phone and valuables
- Reef-safe sunscreen — regular sunscreen is banned in El Nido’s protected waters
- Water shoes or reef shoes — especially for Secret Lagoon
- Hat and sunglasses — the sun is intense on open water
- Extra cash — for drinks, tips, and any additional snacks at 7 Commandos
- Rash guard or UV shirt — protects against sunburn during long snorkelling sessions
- Underwater camera or GoPro — the underwater world at Shimizu is well worth capturing
- Motion sickness tablets — the boat ride can be choppy in afternoon swells
Tour A vs Other El Nido Tours
| Tour | Best Known For | Best For | Crowd Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tour A | Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon | First-timers, photography, kayaking | High |
| Tour B | Snake Island, Cathedral Cave, Pinagbuyutan | Second visit, sandbar lovers | Medium |
| Tour C | Helicopter Island, Star Beach, far-north islands | Off-the-beaten-path, snorkelling | Low–Medium |
| Tour D | Cadlao Island, Paradise Beach, Bukal Beach | Couples, relaxed pace | Low |
Our verdict: If this is your first time in El Nido, do Tour A. The Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon are unlike anything else in the Philippines. If you have 3+ days, combine Tour A with Tour C for a more complete experience of the archipelago.
How to Book El Nido Tour A
You can book Tour A in several ways:
- Walk-in at El Nido town operators — The most affordable option. Head to the tour operator offices along Real Street and Serena Street. Book the day before or on the morning of your tour. Prices are listed on boards outside.
- Book through your hotel — Convenient but typically 10–20% more expensive. Most hotels and guesthouses in El Nido can arrange tours on your behalf.
- Online booking platforms — GetYourGuide, Klook, and Airbnb Experiences list Tour A packages. Prices are higher but offer insurance coverage and guaranteed departure.
- Private boat charter — Ideal for couples, small families, or groups who want a flexible itinerary. Ask your hotel to recommend a trusted private boat operator.
Best Time for Tour A
Season matters: Tour A runs year-round, but conditions vary significantly.
| Season | Months | Conditions | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry season (peak) | November–May | Calm seas, clear skies, excellent visibility | Best time — book in advance |
| Shoulder season | October, June | Some rain, manageable seas | Good value, fewer crowds |
| Wet season | July–September | Frequent rain, rougher seas; some tours cancelled | Check operator cancellation policy |
Within the day: Depart as early as possible (9:00 AM sharp). Big Lagoon becomes extremely crowded by 11:00 AM–12:00 PM during peak season. Early departures get the best light for photography and calmer conditions at the lagoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is El Nido Tour A worth it?
Absolutely. The Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon are considered among the most beautiful natural attractions in Southeast Asia. Even if you’re not a water sports enthusiast, the scenery alone justifies the cost. For first-time visitors to El Nido, Tour A is non-negotiable.
Can I do Tour A without swimming?
Yes. Kayaking is included at the lagoons, so non-swimmers can still fully experience the Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon. However, you’ll miss the snorkelling at Shimizu Island. Life jackets are always available on board.
How crowded is Tour A?
Tour A is the most popular tour in El Nido and can feel crowded at the Big Lagoon during peak season (December–March). To avoid the worst crowds: book a private boat, depart at the first available time slot, or visit during the shoulder season (October–November or May–June).
What is the Environmental User Fee?
The ₱500 EUF (Environmental User Fee) is a one-time fee collected by El Nido municipality. It’s paid upon entering El Nido’s protected areas and covers all tours during your stay. Keep your receipt — it’s checked at each tour site entrance.
Can I do Tour A and Tour C on the same day?
No — both are full-day tours. If you want to do both, plan at least 2 days in El Nido. Many visitors recommend doing Tour A on day 1 and Tour C on day 2 for the best combination of the archipelago’s highlights.
Final Verdict
El Nido Tour A remains the defining island hopping experience in the Philippines. The Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, and Secret Lagoon deliver scenery that genuinely lives up to the hype — and the addition of Shimizu Island’s snorkelling and a relaxed lunch on 7 Commandos Beach makes for a near-perfect full day on the water.
Book early, depart early, and bring your best waterproof camera. Tour A will be one of the highlights of your entire trip to the Philippines.
| Platform | Best For | El Nido Deals |
|---|---|---|
| Booking.com | Hotels, resorts, free cancellation | View deals → |
| Agoda | Best Asia prices, loyalty rewards | View deals → |
| Klook | Tours & activities | Browse tours → |
