El Nido Tour A Complete Guide 2026: Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon & Hidden Beach
If there is one tour you absolutely cannot miss in El Nido, it is Tour A. Widely considered the crown jewel of El Nido island hopping, Tour A takes you to the Big Lagoon, the Small Lagoon, Secret Beach, Shimizu Island, and more — all within a single day on the emerald waters of Bacuit Bay. This complete 2026 guide covers everything you need to know before you book.
What Is El Nido Tour A?
Tour A is the most popular of the four official El Nido island hopping routes (A, B, C, D). It focuses on the lagoons — spectacular turquoise pools carved into towering limestone karst formations — and is best suited for swimmers and snorkelers who want stunning scenery. It typically runs from around 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Tour A Stops: Complete List
- Big Lagoon (Miniloc) — The iconic turquoise lagoon you have seen in every El Nido photo. Kayak or swim through the opening for a jaw-dropping view surrounded by limestone cliffs.
- Small Lagoon — More intimate than the Big Lagoon, accessible by swimming through a narrow opening or by kayak. Crystal-clear water perfect for snorkeling.
- Secret Beach — A hidden white-sand beach completely enclosed by rocks. You swim through a small opening to reach it.
- Shimizu Island — Top snorkeling spot on Tour A with an impressive house reef full of colorful fish and corals.
- 7 Commandos Beach — A long white-sand beach great for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying a freshly cooked lunch.
Tour A Price 2026: How Much Does It Cost?
- Group tour (shared boat): ₱1,200–₱1,500 per person including lunch, snorkeling gear, and entrance fees
- Private Tour A: ₱4,000–₱8,000 per boat (for up to 8–10 people)
- Environmental fee: ₱200 (required, usually bundled in group tours)
- Lagoon entrance fees: ₱800 Big Lagoon + ₱400 Small Lagoon (sometimes included, sometimes paid separately)
What Is Included in Tour A?
- Boat transfer between all stops
- Buffet lunch on the beach (grilled fish, vegetables, rice, fruit)
- Basic snorkeling gear (mask, fins)
- Life jackets
- Environmental fee
Big Lagoon: What to Expect
- Entry fee collected at a booth as you approach by boat
- Swim or kayak inside the lagoon (kayak rental available on-site)
- Best time: early morning before 10 AM when lagoon is less crowded
- Wear a life jacket if you are not a confident swimmer — the lagoon is deep
Secret Beach: How to Get In
You anchor off a rocky cliff face and swim through a small gap at the base of the rocks — about 10–15 meters — to emerge onto a hidden white sand beach. Bring a waterproof case for your phone and water shoes for the rocky entry point.
What to Bring on Tour A
- Reef-safe sunscreen (required in the lagoons)
- Waterproof phone case or dry bag
- Extra cash (₱1,000–₱2,000) for entrance fees, kayak rental, and tips
- Seasickness tablets if needed
- Rash guard for sun protection
- GoPro or underwater camera
Tour A vs Tour B vs Tour C vs Tour D
- Tour A: Lagoons and hidden beaches — the most iconic, best for swimmers and photographers
- Tour B: Caves, Secret Beach, and Entalula Beach — adventurous crowd
- Tour C: Best snorkeling on pristine house reefs — marine life enthusiasts
- Tour D: North El Nido, Cadlao Lagoon — less crowded, off the beaten path
How to Book Tour A
- At the pier: Walk to El Nido pier early morning and book directly with tour operators
- Online via Klook or KKday: Convenient but slightly more expensive
- Through your hotel: Easy but usually the priciest option
Final Verdict: Is Tour A Worth It?
Absolutely — Tour A is worth every peso. The Big Lagoon alone is one of the world’s most beautiful places, and the combination of stops delivers a full-day experience hard to match anywhere in Southeast Asia. Planning your full trip? Read our El Nido 3-Day Itinerary and Island Hopping Tips.
