Palawan, Philippines is famous for its amazing islands, and island hopping is the best way to see them. But with so many tours to choose from, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. This guide breaks down the most popular island hopping tours in El Nido and Coron, highlighting the pros and cons of each, so you can make the best decision for your Palawan adventure.
El Nido Island Hopping: Choosing Your Adventure
El Nido offers four main island hopping tours: Tour A, Tour B, Tour C, and Tour D. Each tour focuses on different areas of Bacuit Bay, offering a unique mix of lagoons, beaches, and snorkeling spots. Let’s dive into each one.
El Nido Tour A: Lagoons and Hidden Beaches
Tour A is arguably the most popular tour, and for good reason. It features some of El Nido’s most iconic locations, including the Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and 7 Commandos Beach.
Pros:
- Iconic Locations: You get to see the “must-see” spots in El Nido.
- Lagoon Exploration: Kayaking in the Small and Big Lagoons is a highlight.
- Good Variety: A mix of swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on beaches.
- Suitable for Most: It’s a good all-around tour for families and solo travelers.
Cons:
- Crowds: Because it’s the most popular, expect more people at each stop.
- Potential for Overcrowding: The lagoons, particularly, can get very crowded during peak season, impacting the experience.
- Snorkeling Quality: While Shimizu Island offers snorkeling, it’s not necessarily the highlight of the tour compared to other snorkeling spots in El Nido.
What to Expect:
Tour A usually starts around 9:00 AM and returns around 4:00 PM. Lunch is included, and it’s typically a simple Filipino-style meal served on one of the beaches or islands. Remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a waterproof bag for your belongings. You might want to rent a kayak at the Small or Big Lagoon; this incurs an additional fee payable on the spot. The Department of Tourism (DOT) in El Nido maintains guidelines for the tours, though enforcement can vary. It’s always a good idea to book in advance, especially during peak season (November to May).
El Nido Tour B: Caves and Island Escapes
Tour B focuses on the islands and caves around Bacuit Bay. Key destinations often include Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, Entalula Island, Cudugnon Cave, and sometimes Papaya Beach.
Pros:
- Less Crowded: Generally less crowded than Tour A.
- Unique Scenery: Offers a chance to explore caves and unique rock formations.
- Beautiful Beaches: Pinagbuyutan and Entalula Islands have stunning beaches.
- Good for Relaxation: More time spent relaxing on beaches.
Cons:
- Less Snorkeling: Not as focused on snorkeling as Tours A or C.
- Cave Exploration: Cudugnon Cave is interesting, but may not appeal to everyone.
- Limited Lagoon Access: Doesn’t feature the iconic lagoons of Tour A.
What to Expect:
Tour B offers a slower pace than Tour A. Snake Island’s sandbar is a highlight and offers stunning photo opportunities. Pinagbuyutan Island is known for its towering rock formations and pristine beach. Prepare for a bit of climbing and exploration if you visit Cudugnon Cave. Lunch is included, and similar to Tour A, it is usually a Filipino-style buffet. Consider bringing a dry bag to protect electronics, especially if you plan to take photos inside the caves.
El Nido Tour C: Hidden Beaches and Snorkeling Hotspots
Tour C is the snorkeling and beach-lover’s dream. This tour visits Helicopter Island, Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Star Beach, and Matinloc Shrine.
Pros:
- Excellent Snorkeling: Some of the best snorkeling spots in El Nido.
- Beautiful Beaches: Pristine and less crowded beaches.
- Matinloc Shrine: Offers a unique cultural and historical perspective.
- Diversified Marine Life: Great opportunities to see a variety of fish and coral.
Cons:
- Strong Currents: Some snorkeling spots may have strong currents, requiring caution.
- Longer Boat Rides: Often involves longer boat rides between islands.
- Seasickness: The longer boat rides can be problematic for those prone to seasickness.
What to Expect:
Tour C usually involves a bit more travel time between destinations due to the distance to Matinloc Island and the surrounding areas. Helicopter Island, named for its shape, is a popular photo spot. Hidden Beach and Secret Beach require swimming through small openings in rock formations to access, adding a sense of adventure. Matinloc Shrine offers panoramic views of the surrounding islands. Lunch is – you guessed it– a Filipino-style buffet. If you are an enthusiastic snorkeler, consider bringing your own snorkeling gear to ensure a comfortable fit.
El Nido Tour D: Island Beaches
Tour D is the least popular tour, but it offers a more secluded and relaxing experience. The standard itinerary often includes Cadlao Lagoon, Pasandingan Beach (also known as Paradise Beach), Bukal Island, and Natnat Beach.
Pros:
- Least Crowded: You’ll encounter fewer tourists compared to the other tours.
- Relaxing Beaches: Perfect for those who want to unwind and enjoy the scenery.
- Cadlao Lagoon: Offers a unique alternative to the lagoons of Tour A.
- Authentic Experience: A chance to see a less commercialized side of El Nido.
Cons:
- Less Snorkeling: Not a primary snorkeling tour.
- Fewer “Must-See” Spots: Doesn’t include some of the iconic locations.
- Limited Activities: Fewer activities compared to the other tours, focused mainly on relaxation.
What to Expect:
Tour D offers a more laid-back atmosphere. Cadlao Lagoon is a beautiful, tranquil spot for swimming and kayaking. Pasandingan Beach is known for its calm waters and pristine sands. Be aware that some parts of Cadlao Lagoon may have jellyfish depending on the season. Lunch, once again, is generally a Filipino-style meal. If you appreciate peace and quiet and want to avoid the crowds, Tour D is an excellent choice.
Coron Island Hopping: A Different Kind of Paradise
Coron offers a different kind of island hopping experience compared to El Nido. Instead of lagoons and beaches, Coron is known for its stunning lakes, WWII shipwrecks, and dramatic limestone cliffs. Unlike El Nido’s labelled tours, Coron often has tours named after their destinations, but the core experiences revolve around a few popular spots.
Coron Ultimate Tour (or Tour A): The Lake and Lagoon Experience
This is the most popular tour in Coron, and what most people picture when they think about visiting. It typically includes Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake, Twin Lagoons, Skeleton Wreck, and sometimes CYC Beach.
Pros:
- Iconic Locations: Includes the postcard-perfect Kayangan Lake and Barracuda Lake.
- Unique Swimming: Swimming in both freshwater and saltwater in the Twin Lagoons is an incredible experience.
- Wreck Snorkeling: Opportunity to snorkel at Skeleton Wreck, a shallow WWII shipwreck.
- Relatively Easy Access: Destinations are generally easier to access than some of the spots on other tours.
Cons:
- Very Crowded: Expect large crowds, especially at Kayangan Lake.
- Limited Beach Time: Focuses more on lakes and snorkeling than relaxing on beaches.
- Water Temperature Differences: The temperature change between the fresh and saltwater in Twin Lagoons can be surprising.
What to Expect:
The Ultimate Tour showcases some of Coron’s most iconic sites. Kayangan Lake requires a short climb up some steps, but the view from the top is worth it. Barracuda Lake is known for its thermoclines (layers of water with different temperatures), which create a unique swimming experience. Twin Lagoons are connected by a small opening that you can swim through (or cross via a ladder at low tide). The tour usually includes lunch, often served onboard the boat. Be aware of the crowds and try to visit Kayangan Lake early in the morning to avoid the worst of it. You can find more information about responsible tourism practices in Coron on the local tourism board website (though a specific link cannot be provided here without knowing the current official URL).
Coron Island Escapade Tour (or Tour B): Beaches and Islands
This tour focuses on the beautiful beaches and islands surrounding Coron. The usual stops include Malcapuya Island, Banana Island, and Bulog Dos Island.
Pros:
- Stunning Beaches: Malcapuya Island boasts powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters.
- Good Snorkeling: Decent snorkeling opportunities around Banana Island and Bulog Dos Island.
- Relaxing Atmosphere: Perfect for spending time swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing.
- Less Crowded than Ultimate Tour: While still popular, these islands tend to be less crowded than Kayangan Lake and Barracuda Lake.
Cons:
- Further Boat Ride: Located further from Coron town, resulting in longer boat rides.
- Less Unique: Doesn’t feature the unique lake experiences of the Ultimate Tour.
- Can Be Windy: Exposed to the open sea, so can get windy and choppy.
What to Expect:
The Island Escapade Tour focuses on relaxation and beach enjoyment. Malcapuya Island is the highlight, with its pristine beach and turquoise waters. Banana Island and Bulog Dos Island offer decent snorkeling opportunities and a more laid-back atmosphere. The longer boat ride can be uncomfortable if the sea is rough, so consider taking seasickness medication if you are prone to motion sickness. Lunch is typically provided on one of the islands. Make sure to bring a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen.
Coron Reefs and Wrecks Tour (or Tour C): Diving and Snorkeling
Geared towards diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, this tour takes you to some of Coron’s best underwater sites. Popular stops may include Lusong Gunboat, Lusong Coral Garden, Pass Island, and East Tangat Gunboat.
Pros:
- Excellent Snorkeling and Diving: Opportunity to see well-preserved WWII shipwrecks and vibrant coral reefs.
- Historical Significance: Learn about the naval battles that took place in Coron Bay.
- Clear Waters: Generally good visibility for underwater exploration.
- Varied Marine Life: Chance to see a wide variety of fish and other marine creatures.
Cons:
- Not for Non-Swimmers: Requires strong swimming abilities or a willingness to try snorkeling.
- Can Be Challenging Conditions: Strong currents are sometimes present, particularly around the wrecks.
- Less Beach Time: Dedicated mostly to underwater activities, offering less time for relaxing on the beach.
What to Expect:
The Reefs and Wrecks Tour allows you to explore Coron’s underwater treasures. Lusong Gunboat is a shallow shipwreck that’s perfect for snorkeling. Lusong Coral Garden boasts a vibrant coral reef teeming with marine life. Pass Island offers a beautiful beach for relaxing between snorkeling sessions. If you are a certified diver, you can also arrange to scuba dive at some of the wrecks. It is highly recommended to bring your own snorkeling gear and/or rent fins. Lunch is, as usual, included. Assess your swimming capabilities before going on this tour.
Important Considerations for All Tours
No matter which tour you choose in El Nido or Coron (or anywhere in Palawan, really), there are a few things to keep in mind.
- Book in Advance: Especially during peak season (November to May), it’s best to book your tour in advance to secure your spot.
- Check the Weather: The weather can affect the itinerary. Tours may be cancelled or modified due to inclement weather.
- Bring Essentials: Sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, swimwear, a waterproof bag, and a towel are essential.
- Respect the Environment: Do not litter, touch the coral, or disturb the marine life. Support sustainable tourism practices.
- Safety First: Listen to the instructions of your boat crew and wear a life jacket when necessary.
- Lunch is Included: Almost all tours include lunch, usually a simple Filipino-style meal. However, if you have specific dietary requirements, it’s best to inform the tour operator in advance.
- Environmental Fees: There’s often an environmental fee to pay when entering protected areas.
FAQ – Your Island Hopping Questions Answered
Here are some of the most common questions travelers have about island hopping in Palawan.
What is the best time to visit Palawan for island hopping?
The best time to visit Palawan is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and the seas are calm, making it ideal for island hopping. However, this is also peak season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
How much does island hopping in Palawan cost?
Prices vary depending on the tour, tour operator, and season. In El Nido, expect to pay around 1,200 to 1,400 PHP per person for a standard island hopping tour. In Coron, prices are similar, ranging from 1,500 to 2,000 PHP per person. These prices usually include lunch and snorkeling gear, but may not include environmental fees or kayak rentals.
Are island hopping tours in Palawan safe?
Island hopping tours in Palawan are generally safe, but it’s important to choose a reputable tour operator and follow their instructions. Check that the boat has life vests and other safety equipment. Also, be aware of your surroundings and swim responsibly. If you are unsure ask the crew.
What should I wear for island hopping in Palawan?
Wear comfortable swimwear, light clothing, and footwear that can get wet. A rash guard or wetsuit top can protect you from the sun and jellyfish stings. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen. Water shoes can also be helpful for walking on rocky beaches or coral reefs.
Can I book island hopping tours online?
Yes, there are many online travel agencies that offer island hopping tours in Palawan. Booking online can be convenient, especially during peak season. However, it’s also possible to book tours directly with tour operators in El Nido or Coron. Booking in person may allow you to negotiate a better price. Read reviews from previous customers. Many travel forums, such as TripAdvisor, can provide such information.
Are children allowed on island hopping tours?
Yes, children are generally allowed on island hopping tours, but it’s important to choose a tour that is appropriate for their age and abilities. Some tours may involve long boat rides or challenging snorkeling conditions. Make sure to inform the tour operator that you are traveling with children and ask about any restrictions or safety precautions.
Is it possible to do private island hopping tours in Palawan?
Yes, private island hopping tours are available in both El Nido and Coron. A private tour allows you to customize your itinerary and avoid the crowds. However, private tours are more expensive than group tours. This allows you to go at your own pace.
References
Department of Tourism, Philippines
TripAdvisor Forums
Ready to experience the magic of Palawan for yourself? Don’t leave your island hopping adventure to chance! Research further, compare tour operators, and book that dream trip today. Palawan’s breathtaking landscapes are waiting!
