Big Lagoon
Bacuit Bay, El Nido
A wide channel of shallow emerald water walled by towering karst cliffs; paddle in by kayak for the classic view.
All destinations
Luzon
El Nido
Palawan · Philippines
The gateway to the Bacuit Archipelago in northern Palawan, a maze of limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and white-sand beaches best explored by boat.
Places to visit
Small Lagoon
Bacuit Bay, El Nido
Reached through a narrow gap in the rock, a quiet enclosed lagoon ideal for kayaking and swimming.
Nacpan Beach
North of El Nido town
A four-kilometre stretch of golden sand about an hour north of town, far quieter than the island-hopping stops.
Things to do
Island Hopping Tour A
The most popular boat route: the Big and Small Lagoons, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Seven Commandos Beach.
Island Hopping Tour C
The dramatic-scenery route: Helicopter Island, Matinloc Shrine, Secret Beach, and Hidden Beach.
Local tips
Best time to visit
The dry season runs roughly December to May; tours are often cancelled in rough weather during the July-to-September wet peak.
Getting here
Most travelers fly into Puerto Princesa and take a 5-to-6-hour van north, or fly into the small Lio Airport just outside town.