El Nido: Hidden Beaches and Lagoons Boat Hopping Tour D

This tour is interesting because it mixes the famous El Nido highlights with a quieter pace, so you spend more time in the water and less time sitting around. You get a full day at sea, with stops that range from calm, shallow beach water to lagoon swimming with those emerald tones people dream about.

I love the mix of beaches and lagoons in one 7-hour loop, especially the Small Lagoon and Cadlao Island moments. I also like how the crew and guides keep things moving, with guides known for being attentive and even playful, plus some of them are happy to take photos for you.

The main drawback to consider is that the experience can cost a bit more once you’re on the water, due to the eco-tourism fees and optional kayak or water gear rentals. Also, the first meeting stage can feel chaotic even when the tour itself runs smoothly.

Key things to know before you go

• Small Lagoon first sets the tone fast, with clear water and a rock-and-water setting that feels special even without a crowd
• Nat Nat and Paradise Beach are geared for swimming, with shallow, calmer water that suits beginners
• Cadlao Island time gives you lagoon-style swimming, not just a quick photo stop
• Tour D often feels less crowded than busier El Nido routes, and you may get stretches where your boat is one of the only ones there
• Extra fees are real: EDTF (400 PHP), Small Lagoon entry (200 PHP), and kayak rentals if you want to use them

Why Tour D Feels Like the Better-Paced Day on the Water

Tour D is built for people who want a day that feels like island time, not a checklist. The schedule has a relaxed rhythm: you arrive, you swim, you snorkel, you kayak, you eat, and then you repeat in different scenery. Even when the sea is calm, the day still feels active because you’re not stuck waiting for the next stop every five minutes.

What makes this tour stand out is the balance between the known hits and the quieter-feeling stops. Small Lagoon and Cadlao Island are the headline acts, but the other beach stops bring variety, from soft-sand swimming areas to spots where the water is calm enough to take it easy. And because Tour D is often less crowded, you’re more likely to enjoy parts of the day without fighting for space in the same tiny cove.

The guides can make a noticeable difference here. Names you’ll hear associated with the operation include Jordan, Mark, Arnold, and TJ. People describe them as helpful, funny, and focused on keeping everyone comfortable, plus some act like a mini photographer for the group so you’re not constantly handing your phone to strangers.

Price, Fees, and What You Should Expect to Pay Total

The listed price is $23 per person for a 7-hour boat hopping tour. That’s a solid value for Palawan because the package includes the licensed tour guide, the boat tour itself, entry fees (as stated), life vests, and a packed lunch.

Now the part to plan around: not everything is included. You’ll need to pay the El Nido eco-tourism development fee (EDTF or Environmental Fee), 400 PHP, before you board the boat. You also likely need the Small Lagoon entry fee, 200 PHP. If you already paid the EDTF earlier, bring a copy of your receipt so you don’t get asked to pay again.

Then there are water gear upgrades. Aqua shoes and fins are available to rent, and kayaks are available at Small Lagoon and Cadlao Lagoon. The listed kayak rental cost is about Php 350 per person per kayak, and some participants report about Php 200 each location. Either way, assume you may add extra money if you want maximum lagoon access and an easier time getting around the water.

Here’s how I think about value for this day:

• If you’re happy swimming and snorkeling with minimal extra rentals, the package price can feel very fair.
• If you want to fully use the kayak time at the lagoon stops, you should budget for the add-ons so you’re not stressed mid-day.

Getting to Marber’s Beach Club Without Stressing Out

Your meeting point is Marber’s Beach Club. The tour includes pickup and a short safety briefing after you get sorted, and then you head out into the crystal-clear water.

One practical note: the meeting stage can be hectic. People describe it as a bit chaotic before boarding, even when the actual tour operation is organized. My advice is simple: show up early, keep your cash ready, and don’t wait until the last minute to check you have your essentials. A calm start makes the rest of the day feel smoother.

Also, follow the basic rules. The tour does not allow smoking, and it asks you not to bring luggage or large bags. You’ll be in and out of water, so bring the things you need, then keep the rest minimal.

Your Route Explained, Small Lagoon to Cadlao Island

This tour runs as a full-day loop, visiting up to three sandy beaches and two lagoons. After pickup and the briefing, the first stop is Small Lagoon.

Stop 1: Small Lagoon, where rocks meet emerald water

Small Lagoon is all about clarity and that rock-and-water look. People love it because it feels quiet and special compared to busier stops, and the water invites you to swim right in. The lagoon setting also creates that “you’re in the middle of a natural sculpture” feeling.

Practical consideration: lagoon access can be easier with the kayak setup. Kayak rental is available at Small Lagoon, and some people say you cannot access the lagoon in the same way without one. Even if you don’t kayak, expect that you’ll spend most of your time in the water, so plan for sun and water comfort.

Stop 2: Cadlao Island, lagoon swimming time

Next comes Cadlao Island, where you get time to swim in and around the lagoon area. This is the sort of stop where you can focus on being in the water rather than rushing for photos. The lagoon setting tends to feel calmer than more open beach zones, so it’s a good match if you want a comfortable swim without constantly worrying about waves.

The kayak option shows up again here with kayak rentals at Cadlao Lagoon. If you like exploring at your own pace, renting a kayak is often how people make this stop feel extra complete.

Nat Nat Beach and Paradise Beach, the Swim-Friendly Duo

After the lagoon time, the tour shifts toward beach days that are easy to enjoy.

Nat Nat Beach: swim alongside marine life

Nat Nat Beach is highlighted for swimming alongside marine life. Expect to see fish while you’re in the water, and the experience is especially rewarding if you like snorkeling but you’re not trying to do anything too intense. It’s the kind of stop where even a casual snorkeler can enjoy the sea.

Paradise Beach: calm water for beginners and fast cooling off

Then you’ll hit Paradise Beach, described as a hidden beach with shallow, calm water. It’s a great place to relax, swim more than once, and cool down. If your group includes people who are newer to snorkeling or who just want a comfortable swim, this is often the stop that wins.

A small drawback to keep in mind: snorkeling quality can vary from day to day. Some people report the snorkel stop was okay rather than mind-blowing. Still, the overall day benefits from having multiple water moments, so you’re not stuck with one “only decent” section.

Bukal Island and the Sweet Spot for Not-Rushing

Tour D also includes Bukal Island as one of the island-hopping stops. This is where the day continues to rotate through different water moods and scenery.

One reason people like Tour D is that the schedule tends to feel like you get enough time at each stop. Many descriptions say you’re not rushed, and that you’re allowed to enjoy each beach or activity without a constant timer shadow.

That said, there’s a timing rhythm that can feel uneven for a minority of guests. One person found the first stop less worth it, and another felt some stops had more time than needed, which made them wait around after exploring. If you’re the type who hates “dead time,” you may want to bring a little patience, plus a plan for how you’ll use the time you have, like snorkeling a second round or simply relaxing with sunscreen on.

Kayaking and Snorkeling: How to Maximize the Water Time

Your day includes free time for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, and life vests are provided. That matters because you’ll move between calm water and snorkeling-friendly spots, and having the right buoyancy setup makes the whole day feel safer and easier.

Here’s how I’d approach it if I were packing for Tour D:

• If you’re confident in the water, prioritize snorkeling at the beach stops like Nat Nat.
• If you want more exploration in the lagoons, consider renting a kayak for Small Lagoon and Cadlao Lagoon.
• If you’re traveling with mixed comfort levels, let the calmer swim areas like Paradise Beach serve as the “everyone can enjoy this” anchor.

Water comfort also matters. Rent or bring a sun hat and sunscreen, and if you hate hot sand, aqua shoes can help. Fins can also make snorkeling feel more effortless if you’re going to spend time in the water.

One other tip based on how people describe the day: bring extra cash for add-ons. It keeps you from feeling stuck when you realize you want a kayak or extra gear after you’re already out at sea.

Lunch, Crew Energy, and Why the Whole Day Feels Smooth

A big part of this tour’s appeal is not just the sea, it’s how the day is run. The crew is described as friendly, helpful, and focused on keeping the vibe relaxed. Guides like Jordan, Mark, Arnold, and TJ show up in different experiences, and the consistent thread is attention and good humor.

Lunch is a real plus here, not a sad sandwich. People describe it as delicious and filling, including combinations like chicken and seafood. When a boat day includes a decent meal, it changes how you feel during the afternoon stops because you’re not hungry, and you’re not running on pure snacks.

One thing to know about timing: sometimes the boat can have a technical issue, which may delay departure by about an hour. When that happens, you may still get an excellent day, but the stop timing can shift relative to other boats. Some people even like the effect because it can mean fewer crowds at certain moments.

What This Tour Is Best For (And Who Should Skip It)

Tour D is a great fit if you want:

• a 7-hour boat day with multiple water activities
• a mix of beaches plus lagoon swimming
• a route that tends to feel less crowded than other El Nido options

People also describe the boat time as flexible enough to choose your own version of the day. If you enjoy being active, you can snorkel and kayak. If you just want to swim, relax, and take in the scenery without pushing your limits, you can do that too.

Who should skip it:

• The tour is listed as not suitable for pregnant women
• It is also not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users

If you’re unsure about your own ability level, think about the reality of getting on and off a boat and being in and out of the water with equipment and sun overhead.

Practical Packing List That Actually Makes a Difference

Here’s what you should bring for Tour D:

• Sunglasses
• A sun hat
• Swimwear
• Sunscreen
• Cash

Also, remember what not to bring:

• no plastic bottles
• no luggage or large bags

This is a water-forward day, so I’d treat your bag like a beach day plus a snorkel day. Keep your essentials easy to grab at the meeting point. Once you’re on the boat, you’ll want quick access to sun protection and whatever you need for water time.

If you’re sensitive to sun, consider extra sunscreen. The day runs most of the day, and even when the water looks inviting, the heat can sneak up on you.

Common Snags and How to Handle Them Like a Pro

I’m going to be honest here. Two things can affect your mood on day one, even if the tour is solid.

First, boarding can be chaotic at the start. If you arrive late or without your cash, it can feel more stressful than it needs to be. Get there with a calm mindset and everything ready.

Second, the itinerary pace is usually good, but one stop might not be your favorite. Some people say the first stop wasn’t worth the time, while others love it. If that happens, don’t let it spoil the whole day. The later lagoon and beach moments are where many people feel the biggest payoff.

Finally, occasional delays happen if the boat needs attention. If you hit an unexpected wait, take a breath, hydrate, and focus on the big picture. The rest of the day often compensates.

Should You Book El Nido Tour D?

Book it if you want a balanced day of beaches and lagoons with time to swim and snorkel, and you like the idea of fewer crowds compared to busier El Nido routes. The Small Lagoon and Cadlao Island moments are the core reason to go, and Nat Nat plus Paradise Beach give you swim-friendly breaks that work even if your group has mixed comfort levels.

Skip it or be cautious if you need a fully accessible format, or if you know you hate extra on-the-spot fees. Plan for EDTF and Small Lagoon entry, and decide ahead of time whether kayaking is worth the extra budget for you.

If you go in prepared with cash, sun protection, and a flexible attitude about meeting point energy, this tour can be exactly the kind of El Nido day that feels like it belongs in a movie, but still runs like a real, practical tour.

FAQ

What’s the duration of El Nido Tour D?

The tour duration is 7 hours.

Where is the meeting point?

The meeting place is at Marber’s Beach Club.

How much does this tour cost?

The price is $23 per person.

What’s included in the tour price?

Included items are a licensed tour guide, boat tour, entry fees (as listed), life vests, and a packed lunch.

What fees are not included?

You should budget for the El Nido eco-tourism development fee (EDTF) of 400 PHP and the Small Lagoon entry fee of 200 PHP. Kayak rentals and some water gear rentals are also not included.

Do I need to pay the EDTF before boarding?

Yes, the EDTF is required before boarding. If you have already paid, bring a copy of your receipt to show the guide.

What activities do you do on Tour D?

You get time for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking at the stops, plus island hopping to the listed beaches and lagoons.

What should I bring?

Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and cash.

What is not allowed during the tour?

Smoking is not allowed. You also should not bring luggage or large bags, and plastic bottles are not allowed.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?

No. It is not suitable for pregnant women, and it is also listed as not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.