El Nido Tour C – Island Hopping Tour in El Nido Palawan

Discover hidden beaches, towering cliffs, and dramatic limestone scenery
on one of the most iconic El Nido island hopping routes.

Tour C Overview

Compared with other tours, Tour C focuses on hidden beach access, Secret Beach entry, and cliffs around Matinloc Island and Tapiutan Island. If you are looking for a unique tour in El Nido island hopping, this route combines natural beauty, amazing views, and beautiful islands in one day trip.
This route is also commonly searched as Nido Tour C, Nido Tour, Nido Island Hopping Tour, and Island Hopping Tour C.
Tour C is often considered one of the strongest snorkeling routes in El Nido, especially around Matinloc Shrine and Secret Beach, and is frequently described as one of the most popular El Nido tours.

Who This Tour is Best For

Tour C is perfect for travelers seeking hidden beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs, and scenic island hopping. It offers swimming through rock openings, snorkeling, beach time, and stunning views, making it one of El Nido’s most popular tours. Some stops require light physical effort, so guests should consider access conditions before booking.

Tour C may be less suitable for very young children, some seniors, or non-swimmers who are not comfortable with short swims through narrow rock openings.

SCHEDULE: Group / Public Tour

Start Time
9:30–10:30 AM
Return to the Port
3:30–4:30 PM

SCHEDULE: Private Tour

Pickup Time
8:00–8:30 AM
Start Time
9:00–10:00 AM
Return to the Port
3:00–4:00 PM

*Private tours can be flexible in terms of time

The day begins with port coordination, safety briefing, and boarding by boat. In many operations, the practical full-day window is around 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM depending on dispatch timing and conditions. Arriving 30 minutes before scheduled departure is recommended.

Why Choose Tour C

Visit Secret Beach and Hidden Beach in one route
Explore towering cliffs and unique rock formations
See beautiful beaches and dramatic island scenery
Strong balance of swim, explore, and photo stops
Great option if Tour B or other tours are not your priority
One of the strongest snorkeling-focused routes in El Nido
Often less crowded than Tour A in many departures

Destinations in El Nido Tour C

01 Helicopter Island (Dilumacad Island)

Helicopter Island is often the first stop, depending on sea conditions. Its traditional name is Dilumacad Island, while “Helicopter Island” comes from its profile shape from a distance. This island is known for white sand, clear water, and snorkeling areas near coral reefs.

02 Hidden Beach

Hidden Beach is enclosed by limestone walls and reached by swimming through a narrow opening. This small beach has calmer water and a more protected setting, giving a private paradise feel during off-peak timing.

03 Secret Beach

Secret Beach is accessed through a small hole in the rock wall. Inside, the cove is surrounded by cliffs and feels separate from open sea traffic. It is one of the world famous beaches in El Nido and a core reason many travelers book El Nido Tour C.

04 Talisay Beach

Talisay Beach is a regular lunch stop with shade, white sand, and room to rest between active stops. It is a practical break point for lunch, swim time, and recovery before the next island transfer.Talisay Beach is also associated with clear water and coral areas near Tapiutan Island. Some references call this nearby snorkeling zone “Star Beach.” Note: Star Beach access may be restricted/private under current local rules.

05 Star Beach

Star Beach is a stunning tropical getaway with clear blue waters, golden sands, palm trees, and beautiful sunsets. Perfect for relaxation or adventure, visitors can enjoy swimming, beach walks, water sports, and fresh seaside cuisine in a peaceful natural setting.

Tour Boat

El Nido group tour boat cruising through Bacuit Bay during island hopping tour

Boat

Group Boat

₱2,100
per person
The most affordable option, ideal for solo travelers or small groups who want to join others and share the experience.

Included

  • Lunch
  • Drinking water
  • Lagoon fee
  • Environmental fee
Exclusions:
Optional equipment rental: snorkeling mask ₱100, fins ₱100, aqua shoes ₱100, kayak ₱150. Boat capacity: 18–22 guests.
A blue and white traditional Filipino outrigger boat anchored on a white sand beach next to clear turquoise water and dark limestone cliffs.

Boat

Private Boat

₱12,000
2 Pax
Extra
₱1,500
/per guest
A traditional bangka-style boat designed for guests who want a private and authentic island hopping experience at the best value.

Included

  • Transfer to port / Hotel town pickup
  • Lunch
  • Drinking water
  • Guide
  • Lagoon fee
  • Environmental fee
  • Snorkeling mask
  • Kayaks (in lagoon)
Exclusions:
Transfer from harbor to town, fins ₱100, aqua shoes ₱100.
High-angle shot of a large white and green traditional wooden outrigger boat anchored in clear turquoise ocean water next to towering, tree-covered limestone cliffs.

Boat

Premium 2D X Outrigger Boat

₱20,000
2 Pax
Extra
₱2,000
/per guest
Enjoy El Nido from a larger boat with a second deck, outdoor terraces, and more space for families, friends, and private groups.

Included

  • Transfer to port / Hotel town pickup
  • Lunch
  • Drinking water
  • Guide
  • Lagoon fee
  • Environmental fee
  • Snorkeling mask
  • Kayaks (in lagoon)
Exclusions:
Transfer from harbor to town, fins ₱100, aqua shoes ₱100.
High-angle shot of a long white speedboat named Azure with a white canopy anchored in turquoise water near an island beach in El Nido.
Recommended Choice

Boat

Speed Boat

₱26,000
2 Pax
Extra
₱2,000
/per guest
Perfect for guests who want to minimize transfer time and maximize time spent swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the islands.

Included

  • Transfer to port / Hotel town pickup
  • Lunch
  • Drinking water
  • Guide
  • Lagoon fee
  • Environmental fee
  • Snorkeling mask
  • Kayaks (in lagoon)
Exclusions:
Transfer from harbor to town, fins ₱100, aqua shoes ₱100.
High-angle view of a large white sailing catamaran named Marta anchored in calm, deep blue ocean waters near a lush green tropical coastline.

Boat

Catamaran

₱50,000
Tour
Extra
₱5,000
/per guest
A leisurely sailing experience focused on relaxation, open space, and beautiful island scenery.

Included

  • Transfer to port
  • Lunch
  • Water & Drinks
  • Snorkeling mask
  • Kayak (on board)
  • Captain & Fuel
Exclusions:
Transfer from harbor to town.

Practical Facts Before You Book

Everything you need to know before planning your
island expedition experience.

Pricing, Fees, and Policy Notes

To book El Nido tour packages, contact your chosen tour companies via WhatsApp, email, or booking form. Best prices depend on boat class, group size, and seasonal demand. Before payment, confirm:

  • Total price
  • Inclusions and exclusions
  • Environmental fee status
  • Entrance fee coverage
  • Cancellation rules and full refund conditions (if applicable)

Private formats can feel like your own private paradise, but they are usually a more expensive tour than group options.

Typical pricing for Tour C is around ₱2,100 per person, making it one of the higher-priced standard group routes in El Nido. Many packages at this level include lunch and snorkeling gear, but always confirm with the operator.

Additional fees may apply, including the El Nido environmental fee and entrance fee (commonly around ₱200).

Route Context and Nearby Places

Tour C is different from Tour B, and it is also different from routes centered on Big Lagoon. If you are comparing routes:

  • Big Lagoon is typically part of Tour A, not Tour C
  • Tour B focuses more on caves and sandbar features
  • Cadlao Island is commonly viewed from open-water transit, not a standard Tour C landing stop
  • Star Beach appears in some online listings, but it is not always a fixed official stop
  • Tapiutan Island cliffs can be seen during parts of the route depending on sea line and timing

Booking Process

All bookings are handled through customer support.

  • Contact us via request form, WhatsApp, or email.
  • Our team checks availability and shares full details (timing, boat type, inclusions, fees).
  • A deposit is required to secure your reservation.
  • Final booking confirmation is sent after deposit receipt.
Duration and Stop Timing:

Total duration is usually about 5 to 8 hours depending on itinerary flow, weather, and sea conditions. Most major stops are commonly around 45 to 60 minutes each.

TOUR C — Important Notices

  • All entrance fees and permits are included in standard packages
  • Environmental fee may be charged separately if your ETDF is not yet active
  • Some access points require swimming through narrow entries
  • Life jacket use is required during transfers and advised during swims
  • Conditions at Secret Beach and Hidden Beach depend on tide and swell
  • Boarding may include shallow-water wading or kayak transfer in some cases
  • Sea turtles and reef life are possible sightings, not guaranteed
  • Route order may change for safety and operational flow
  • Tour C faces more open-sea exposure than some routes, so high waves can cause cancellations on some days

Best season guidance: dry season (November to May) is generally preferred to reduce cancellation risk.

Booking and Payment Tips

You can book El Nido Tour C online to save time and often secure better rates in advance. Booking online can also reduce how much cash you need to carry on tour day.

El Nido is largely cash-based, so bringing sufficient cash is recommended for add-ons and local payments.

If booking in person, booking at least one day in advance is advised. If transfer is not included, you can arrange a tricycle ride to the meetup point.

Private tours are available for guests who want a more comfortable experience with better pace control and flexible stop timing within the approved route framework.

Final Thoughts: El Nido Tour C is an amazing tour for travelers who prioritize hidden coastal locations, amazing views, and natural beauty over crowded main-route traffic. This trip is one of the most visually rewarding ways to explore El Nido Palawan in one day.

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