El Nido Water Activities Guide – 2026 Ultimate Guide
Summer is here – of course you need to play in the water! El Nido is a paradise for water activities, from relaxed rowing to exciting surfing. This article introduces all kinds of water activity recommendations and precautions.
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Table of Contents
Island Hopping
This is the most classic water activity in El Nido! Ride outrigger boats to explore various islands, hidden lagoons, beaches, and coral reefs.
Tour Options
| Tour | Features | Cost |
|——|———-|——|
| Tour A | Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon | 1,200-1,500 |
| Tour B | Cave exploration | 1,200-1,500 |
| Tour C | Remote islands | 1,300-1,600 |
| Tour D | Half-day tour | 800-1,000 |
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Snorkeling
Recommended Spots
– Shimizu Island: Richest coral reefs
– Seven Commendo: Close and convenient
– Big Lagoon: Beautiful scenery
Snorkeling Tips
– Wear water shoes
– Don’t touch coral
– Use Reef Safe sunscreen
– Pay attention to current direction
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Scuba Diving
Experience Diving
No certification? No problem! Experience diving lets you explore beautiful underwater world with instructor accompaniment. Cost about 3,500-4,500 PHP.
Certification Courses
– OW Course: 18,000-25,000 PHP
– AOW Course: 8,000-15,000 PHP
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Kayaking
Recommended Spots
– Big Lagoon: Must-visit!
– Small Lagoon: Hidden paradise experience
– Town coastline
Cost
– Single: 300-500 PHP/hour
– Double: 500-800 PHP/hour
Tips
– Paddle gently to avoid splashing
– Watch for passing boats
– Wear life jacket properly
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Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Popular water sport in recent years – stand on surfboard and paddle. Great for core muscle training!
Recommended Spots
– Corong-Corong Beach
– Maremegmeg Beach
Cost
500-1,000 PHP/hour
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Surfing
Suitable Spots
Duli Beach is the only surfing spot in El Nido, suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers. Wave conditions depend on monsoon – better in winter (November-February)!
Surfing Tips
– Need some foundation
– Local surf schools available
– Watch out for rocks and coral
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Banana Boat
Exciting water activity! Sit in banana-shaped inflatable boat, towed by speedboat across the sea!
Cost
About 300-500 PHP/person
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Paragliding
With instructor, glide from hilltop over the sea and overlook El Nido panorama!
Cost
About 2,000-3,000 PHP/person
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Glass Bottom Boat
Don’t want to get wet but want to see underwater? Glass bottom boat lets you sit in cabin and admire coral reefs and tropical fish!
Cost
About 500-1,000 PHP/person
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Water Activity Safety Guidelines
General Safety
1. Always wear life jacket
2. Pay attention to weather and sea conditions
3. Know your physical limits
4. Follow instructor guidance
5. Don’t act alone
Environmental Protection
1. Don’t touch or step on coral
2. Use Reef Safe sunscreen
3. Don’t feed fish
4. Take all trash with you
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Cost Summary
| Activity | Cost (PHP) |
|———-|————|
| Island hopping | 1,200-1,600 |
| Snorkeling (own gear) | Free-200 |
| Experience diving | 3,500-4,500 |
| Kayak | 300-800/hour |
| SUP | 500-1,000/hour |
| Banana boat | 300-500 |
| Paragliding | 2,000-3,000 |
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Conclusion
El Nido is a water activity paradise! Whether you prefer static rowing or exciting water sports, this place can satisfy you. Remember to pay attention to safety and protect the environment – enjoy the embrace of sunshine and sea!
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Tags: El Nido Water Activities, Island Hopping, Snorkeling, Kayaking
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