Have you ever scrolled through those travel magazines and wondered if places that beautiful actually exist in real life? We certainly did—until we finally packed our bags and headed to El Nido, Palawan in the Philippines. Often ranked as one of the most stunning beach destinations in the entire world, El Nido had been on our family bucket list for years.
When we finally touched down, we realized the photos don’t even do it justice. There is a specific kind of magic in the air here—a mix of salty ocean breeze, towering limestone cliffs, and the kind of peace you can only find when you’re miles away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. We spent our days island hopping, kayaking through emerald waters, and bonding over fresh seafood on white sandy shores.
If you’re planning a family trip to the Philippines, or just dreaming of your next tropical getaway, grab a mango shake and join us as we look back on our incredible adventure in El Nido.
Getting There: The Journey to Paradise
Our journey began with a flight from Manila to Palawan via Cebu Pacific. There’s always that buzz of excitement when you’re at the airport with the family, bags packed and spirits high. We landed in Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan, which serves as a common gateway for many travelers heading north to El Nido.
Upon arrival, we had a private car waiting for us. While there are shared vans available, we highly recommend booking a private car for a family trip. It gives you the flexibility to stop when you need to, stretch your legs, and just enjoy the scenery at your own pace. The drive from Puerto Princesa to El Nido is about 5 to 6 hours, but the views of the lush countryside are beautiful.
Family Tip: About halfway through the drive, we made a stop for lunch. It was the perfect moment to share a meal, have some laughs, and recharge before the final leg of the journey. Don’t rush the drive—treat it as part of the adventure!
Finding Our Home Away From Home: El Nido Garden Resort
When we finally rolled into El Nido, we checked into the El Nido Garden Resort, and honestly, we couldn’t have picked a better spot. We stayed in cottage-style rooms that felt cozy and authentic, perfectly suited for our group.
One of our favorite things about the resort was the layout. Our room faced the swimming pool, which then overlooked the vast, blue ocean. There’s something so soothing about waking up, stepping out onto your porch, and seeing the water sparkling in the sun. It truly felt like our own private paradise. After the long travel day, we spent some time just soaking in the views and getting ready for the island adventures ahead.
Island Hopping: Discovering Hidden Gems
The highlight of any trip to El Nido is, without a doubt, the island hopping. There are several different tours available (usually labeled Tour A, B, C, and D), each taking you to different lagoons and beaches. We set off early the next morning, fueled by excitement and a lot of sunscreen!
Our Private Oasis at Pasandigan Beach
Our first stop was Pasandigan Beach, and we couldn’t believe our luck—we had the entire island to ourselves! It was just our family and the boat crew. The water was crystal clear, and the sand was like powdered sugar. We spent the morning swimming and snorkeling, exploring the vibrant underwater world. Having a beach all to yourself is a rare luxury, and it made us feel like we were in a movie.
Finding Peace at Ugan Cove
Next, we headed to Ugan Cove. This spot is a haven for sightseeing and photography. To truly experience the cove, we rented kayaks. Paddling through the calm, turquoise waters allowed us to see the intricate details of the limestone formations up close. We all agreed that Ugan Cove was one of the most tranquil places we’ve ever visited. It’s a great spot for the kids to kayak too, as the water is very still and manageable.
A Feast on the Sand: Lunch at Shimo Island
By midday, we had worked up quite an appetite. Our boat crew took us to Shimo Island for a traditional Filipino barbecue lunch right on the beach.
The spread was incredible! We feasted on:
- Freshly grilled shrimp and fish
- Succulent barbecue pork and chicken
- Plenty of steamed rice
- A refreshing fruit platter with yellow watermelon, pineapple, and bananas
There is nothing quite like eating with your hands (boodle fight style!) while sitting on the sand, surrounded by the ocean. The yellow watermelon was a huge hit with the kids—sweet, juicy, and the perfect cool-down treat.
Gliding Through the Iconic Big Lagoon
After lunch, we made our way to the Big Lagoon, perhaps the most iconic and photographed spot in all of El Nido. As you approach, you’re greeted by towering limestone cliffs that create a narrow entrance into a vast, emerald-green lagoon.
We rented kayaks again here, which is the best way to explore. Gliding through the water, looking up at the massive cliffs, felt like we were entering another world. We even took the time to do a “360-degree” view from the kayaks just to soak it all in. At one point, we found a spot where the water was surprisingly cold and refreshing—a natural “leach” of cool water amidst the tropical heat. It was an experience none of us will ever forget.
Winding Down at Papaya Island
Our final stop of the day was Papaya Island. You might wonder why it’s called Papaya Island when it’s covered in coconut trees! Regardless of the name, the white sand is fine and soft, and the water is shallow and warm.
After a full day of paddling and exploring, this was the perfect place to simply unwind. We spent our time relaxing on the shore, taking slow swims, and reflecting on everything we had seen. It was the “quiet” end to an unforgettable day of family bonding.
As the sun began to dip, our boat dropped us off at a dock close to our hotel. We walked back with salty skin and big smiles, already talking about our favorite parts of the day.
A Perfect Final Morning at Lio Beach
On our last day in El Nido, we decided to take it easy. We headed over to Lio Beach for a relaxing morning. If you’re traveling with family, Lio Beach is a must-visit. The water is incredibly clear and calm—it actually feels like swimming in a giant, natural swimming pool.
We spent the hours between 9:00 AM and noon just floating in the water and enjoying the sunshine before we had to start the journey back to Puerto Princesa. It was the perfect “final soak” to wrap up our trip.
Final Thoughts: Why El Nido is a Family Must-Visit
Our time in El Nido was nothing short of extraordinary. From the thrill of discovering hidden coves to the simple joy of sharing a meal on a remote island, every moment felt like a treasure.
If you are looking for a destination that combines adventure with relaxation, and stunning natural beauty with warm hospitality, El Nido should be at the top of your list. We left with our hearts full and a promise to ourselves that we would keep exploring this beautiful world together.
Thanks for following along on our adventure! Until next time, keep exploring and making memories with the ones you love.
