Picture yourself on a beautiful beach in Palawan, feeling the soft white sand under your toes, the warm breeze brushing against your skin, and the enchanting light of the full moon shining brightly. This is not just a fantasy; it’s the real experience of the Full Moon Party at La Plage. Situated in El Nido, Palawan, La Plage invites you to join an incredible celebration that mixed the stunning nature of the Philippines with the lively energy of a beach party. If you’re searching for an exciting adventure with a blend of fun, relaxation, and a hint of exotic flair, read on to learn all you need about attending a Full Moon Party at La Plage.
What Makes La Plage’s Full Moon Party Unique?
Full moon parties often remind people of the big, chaotic celebrations found in Thailand, but La Plage’s Full Moon Party offers a cozy and relaxed setting. Imagine a smaller crowd, which allows you to move and dance more comfortably. You’ll see vibrant fire dancers performing spectacular acts while listening to the beats from talented local and international DJs. Even with a stunning location, the ambiance at La Plage is more manageable than on larger beaches. It focuses more on creating a “chill” party vibe instead of a loud rave atmosphere.
The setting is just as compelling. La Plage showcases breathtaking views of Bacuit Bay and its surrounding islands from El Nido town. The party takes place right on the beach, with the soft waves nearby, creating a truly enchanting experience. While specific details might vary, the general vibe leans toward attendees who wish to relax, enjoy some drinks, and soak up music. The lighting is welcoming, and the volume is not too overpowering, allowing for enjoyable conversations and relaxation.
How to Get to La Plage and El Nido, Palawan
Your adventure to La Plage begins with your journey to El Nido. Fortunately, there are various options to reach El Nido. Airswift provides direct flights from Manila, Cebu, and other select locations to El Nido Airport (ENI). These flights may be on the pricier side, costing around PHP 7,000 – PHP 15,000 (USD 125 – USD 270) for a round trip, but they save significant travel time.
For those on a budget, flying to Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) might be the better route. Various airlines such as Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia operate flights to Puerto Princesa from major cities in the Philippines. Round-trip flights usually range from PHP 3,000 – PHP 8,000 (USD 55 – USD 145). Once you arrive in Puerto Princesa, you have several options to reach El Nido:
- Private Van: The most comfortable way to travel, you can book a private van through your hotel or a local tour operator. Prices typically range from PHP 5,000 – PHP 8,000 (USD 90 – USD 145) for the whole van, making it a good choice for groups.
- Shared Van: An affordable option, shared vans can be found right at the airport. Expect to pay PHP 500 – PHP 800 (USD 9 – USD 15) per person. The journey takes about 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way.
- Bus: This is the most cost-effective option but also the slowest. Buses depart from the Puerto Princesa Integrated Bus Terminal and take around 6-8 hours to arrive in El Nido. Fare ranges from PHP 400 – PHP 600 (USD 7 – USD 11).
Once you’ve arrived in El Nido, reaching La Plage is straightforward. It’s close to the beach, so you can easily walk there. Tricycles are also available, with fares generally around PHP 50 (USD 1) from most parts of town.
What to Anticipate at the Party
The Full Moon Party at La Plage is all about relaxed vibes, fantastic music, and wonderful views. Expect to hear a variety of music, beginning with mellow reggae or acoustic tunes during sunset, followed by house, electronic, and even some hip-hop as the night goes on. There will often be fire dancers performing, adding to the visual enjoyment of the evening, with cheers and clapping from the audience. Bars set up on the beach serve a wide range of drinks, from local beers and cocktails to international spirits. And remember, the dance floor is just the sand beneath your feet—leaving your shoes behind is highly encouraged!
The party usually kicks off around sunset (between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM) and continues until late (around 2:00 AM to 3:00 AM), sometimes longer depending on the crowd and weather conditions. There are plenty of chill-out areas for sitting and chatting with friends, alongside a dedicated dance area where DJs spin tracks. Food stalls might also be available for those needing a break to grab a bite.
What to Wear and Bring to the Party
Comfort is essential when dressing for the party! Since it’s on the beach, light and airy clothing is recommended. Think along the lines of shorts, tank tops, sundresses, and swimsuits. Bringing along a sarong or light cover-up can be a good idea if it gets a bit chilly later in the evening. And don’t forget your swimwear in case you decide to take a dip in the ocean! While swimming at night can be tricky, do take care if you choose to do this.
Here’s a handy checklist for what to bring:
- Cash: While some places in El Nido take credit cards, it’s good to carry cash for smaller purchases and tricycle rides.
- Insect repellent: Mosquitoes can be a concern in tropical areas, especially at night.
- Sunscreen: Even if it’s a night party, remember to protect your skin while outdoors during the day.
- Swimsuit (optional): If you want to swim in the ocean.
- Towel (optional): To dry off if you take a dip.
- Camera or smartphone: Capture those unforgettable moments!
- Small bag: To keep your personal belongings secure while you dance and mingle.
Essential Safety Tips
Even though the Full Moon Party at La Plage is typically safe, taking a few precautions is always a smart idea:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the night to avoid dehydration.
- Pace your drinking: Know your limits regarding alcohol and drink responsibly.
- Watch your belongings: Keep an eye on your purse, phone, and other valuables.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Stick close to friends and avoid wandering off alone.
- Avoid taking unnecessary risks: If you are heavily intoxicated or if the waves are dangerous, it’s best not to swim.
- Trust your instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, step away from the situation.
Other Fun Activities in El Nido
Don’t let the party be your only reason for visiting! El Nido is a paradise filled with amazing activities just waiting for you to explore:
- Island Hopping: A must-do in El Nido! This destination is renowned for its stunning lagoons, hidden beaches, and tall limestone cliffs. Various tours (A, B, C, D) provide different itineraries to showcase the beauty of Bacuit Bay. Expect to pay around PHP 1,200 – PHP 1,400 (USD 22 – USD 26) per tour, including a delicious lunch on the beach.
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline at your leisure. This is a fantastic way to uncover hidden coves and pristine shores. Rental shops are available near the beach where kayak rentals typically cost around PHP 500 (USD 9).
- Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Dive into the vibrant underwater world of El Nido. Many dive shops offer introductory dives and courses for certified divers. Plenty of snorkeling spots await you, even during island-hopping tours, where gear is usually included.
- Hiking and Climbing: For those seeking a challenge, try hiking Taraw Cliff for sweeping views of El Nido town and Bacuit Bay, or attempt rock climbing at designated climbing locations. There are various mountains nearby where you can hike to witness El Nido’s beauty.
- Beach Relaxation: Sometimes, the best thing to do is simply unwind on one of El Nido’s gorgeous beaches. Popular choices include Nacpan Beach and Las Cabanas Beach.
Where to Stay in El Nido
El Nido provides a variety of accommodations to match every budget and preference, from affordable backpacker hostels to luxurious resorts. If you want to stay close to the nightlife and fun, consider staying in El Nido town.
Here are a few options across various budgets:
- Budget: Spin Designer Hostel (a hostel) and Happiness Hostel (a hostel)
- Mid-Range: El Nido Coco Resort and Ipil Suites El Nido
- Luxury: El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island and Lagen Island Resort
Food and Drink in El Nido
El Nido is a melting pot of flavors, offering a tasty array of culinary delights. From traditional Filipino dishes to international options, there’s something to please everyone’s palate. Fresh seafood is a must-try, with many restaurants serving daily-caught fish, prawns, and lobster.
Here’s a list of some good restaurant recommendations:
- Artcafe: Known for delicious food and a cozy atmosphere, it also has a souvenir shop.
- Republica Sunset Bar: Offers Spanish cuisine and a stunning view of the sunset.
- Altrovè: An Italian restaurant famous for its great pizza.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When are the Full Moon Parties held at La Plage?
A: The parties usually happen on or around the date of the full moon each month. It’s a good idea to check La Plage’s social media pages (like Facebook or Instagram) or websites for specific dates.
Q: Is there an entrance fee for the Full Moon Party?
A: Sometimes there is a small entrance fee, depending on the season and number of attendees. This fee helps cover the cost of DJs and other party equipment and usually ranges from PHP 200 – PHP 600 (USD 4-11).
Q: Are food and drinks available during the party?
A: Yes, food stalls and bars are set up on the beach offering a variety of drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and food options.
Q: Is it safe to swim in the ocean at night?
A: It’s generally advised against swimming at night. The waters can be dark and the currents unpredictable, so it’s best to avoid swimming, especially if you’ve been drinking.
Q: Is there a dress code for the Full Moon Party?
A: There’s no formal dress code; comfortable, beach-appropriate clothing is what’s recommended.
Q: Are there ATMs available in El Nido?
A: Yes, there are ATMs in El Nido town, but they can sometimes run out of cash, especially during busy seasons. It’s a smart idea to carry enough cash with you or withdraw from larger cities with guaranteed cash availability.
Q: Can I book tours and activities in advance?
A: Yes, you can reserve El Nido island hopping tours, diving trips, and accommodations ahead of time before you arrive. Many reputable tour operators have websites or social media pages where you can make reservations. You can also book upon arrival, but some tours could be fully booked.
Q: What is the best time to visit El Nido?
A: The best time to visit El Nido is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. This is when the weather tends to be sunny and dry, perfect for island hopping and other outdoor activities.
If you are ready for an adventure filled with beauty, energy, and unforgettable memories, don’t hesitate to start planning your trip to the Full Moon Party at La Plage. Gather your friends, pack your bags, and embark on an incredible journey to experience the magic of the Philippines under the full moon!
