El Nido Water Activities Guide – 2026 Summer Fun Guide

Summer is here, of course it’s time for water activities! El Nido is a paradise for water activities – from relaxing rowing to exciting surfing, everything is available. This article introduces various 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 a banca (local boat) between islands, exploring 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 Locations
-清水岛 (Coral Cay): Richest coral reefs
– Seven Commandos: Close distance
– Big Lagoon: Beautiful scenery
Snorkeling Tips
– Wear non-slip water shoes
– Don’t touch coral reefs
– Choose Reef Safe sunscreen
– Pay attention to current direction
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Diving
Discover Scuba Diving
No license? No problem! Discover Scuba Diving lets you explore the beautiful underwater world with an instructor. Cost is approximately 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 Locations
– Big Lagoon: Must-visit!
– Small Lagoon: Secret experience
– City coastline
Cost
– Single: 300-500 PHP/hour
– Double: 500-800 PHP/hour
Tips
– Paddle gently to avoid splashing
– Pay attention to passing boats
– Wear life jacket properly
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Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
A popular water sport in recent years – stand on a surfboard and paddle forward. Great for core muscle training!
Recommended Locations
– Corong-Corong Beach
– Maremegmeg Beach
Cost
500-1,000 PHP/hour
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Surfing
Suitable Location
Duli Beach is the only surfing spot in El Nido, suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers. Wave conditions depend on monsoon – winter (November-February) has better waves!
Surfing Tips
– Need some basic skills
– Local surf schools available for learning
– Watch out for rocks and coral
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Banana Boat
Thrilling sea activity! Sit on a banana-shaped inflatable tube and get pulled by a speedboat across the sea!
Cost
Approximately 300-500 PHP/person
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Paragliding
With an instructor, fly over the sea on a paraglider from a hillside, overlooking the entire El Nido!
Cost
Approximately 2,000-3,000 PHP/ride
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Glass Bottom Boat
Don’t want to get wet but want to see underwater? Glass bottom boat lets you sit at the bottom of the boat and enjoy coral reefs and tropical fish!
Cost
Approximately 500-1,000 PHP/person
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Water Activity Safety Notes
General Safety
1. Always wear life jacket
2. Pay attention to weather and sea conditions
3. Know your physical limits
4. Follow instructor’s instructions
5. Don’t act alone
Environmental Protection
1. Don’t touch or step on coral reefs
2. Use Reef Safe sunscreen
3. Don’t feed fish
4. Take away all garbage
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Cost Overview
| Activity | Cost (PHP) |
|———|————|
| Island Hopping | 1,200-1,600 |
| Snorkeling (bring own gear) | Free-200 |
| Discover Scuba Diving | 3,500-4,500 |
| Kayaking | 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 paradise for water activities! Whether you prefer static rowing or exciting water sports, this place has everything to satisfy you. Remember to stay safe, protect the environment, and enjoy the embrace of sunshine and sea!
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Tags: El Nido Water Activities, Island Hopping, Snorkeling, Kayaking, SUP
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