El Nido: Private/Exclusive Island Hopping Tour A BEST PRICE!

What makes this experience so interesting is that Tour A is El Nido’s greatest-hits circuit, but you do it with exclusive boat time and a schedule you can slow down or reshuffle. I love the chance to hit the BIG LAGOON when the light is right, and I also love that the route strings together multiple iconic lagoons instead of only one big stop. The one consideration is weather, because stops and the lunch area can shift when conditions change.

I also like the water focus, since you are not just looking at scenery. You get to swim and snorkel in calm bays, and the big draw for many people is the turtle chance at Shimizu Island. One drawback to plan around: some key fees and gear are not included, like the environmental fee, lagoon entrance fee, and rentals for things like masks, snorkel, and kayak use.

Key points at a glance

• Exclusive-use private boat: you sail with your group only, with your own pacing.
• BIG LAGOON plus Secret Lagoon in one day: two lagoon styles, both photo and swim-worthy.
• Shimizu Island turtle snorkeling: a very specific highlight that many tours skip.
• Covers Seven Commandos, Payong-Payong, and more: you get several settings, not one.
• Guides help with timing and photos: names you may see include Gabi, Jason, Renz, Joshua, Edward, and Cyron.

Private Tour A: Why the Boat Matters More Than the Name

Tour A is popular for a reason. Big limestone cliffs, glassy water, and those iconic lagoon views have turned this route into the must-do for first-timers. What makes this version worth a serious look is that private means your boat is for your group, not a revolving cast of strangers. That changes everything about how the day feels.

I like the practical result: you can spend a little longer where you are actually having fun, then move on without feeling rushed. You also get a little more control over the flow, which matters when you are trying to keep the day calm and scenic.

For couples and small families, it is one of the easiest ways to make El Nido feel less chaotic. You are still going to be on a boat for a chunk of the day, but you are not trapped in a loud, fixed rhythm.

Getting There From Corong-corong: The Tuk-Tuk Start

The day starts with pickup within 1 km of Corong-corong Beach. From there, a short tuk-tuk transfer gets you to the boat jump-off point. This is the kind of detail that sounds small, but it helps you avoid that awkward scramble between your hotel and the tour base.

The tour is listed as 8 hours total, so you should plan your morning with some buffer. Realistically, you will spend the day bouncing between beaches, lagoons, and swim stops, not just sitting on the boat.

One smart tip: bring cash. Even though some items are included, the day also has government-mandated fees and gear options that are not. If you come prepared, you avoid that last-minute stop-and-go.

Seven Commandos Beach: WWII Stories, Instant Scenic Reward

Seven Commandos Beach is a quick hit that gets you into the mood fast. You are in for a photo stop, sightseeing, a boat cruise, and time to swim. The total time here is about 45 minutes, which is enough for a dip and a few photos without feeling like you are stuck.

What I like about this stop is the mix of history and beauty. The beach is named after troops who were stranded there during World War II, and the limestone cliffs framing the cove make it feel dramatic even when the pace is relaxed. Coconut water is often part of the vibe here, and it is the kind of place where your camera will earn its keep.

Possible drawback: depending on conditions, the stop order can change. That usually helps the day run smoother, but it can also mean you might spend less time at a specific beach if adjustments are needed.

Big Lagoon: The Instagram Moment That Still Feels Real

Yes, Big Lagoon is famous. But when it hits, it does not feel like a staged set. You cruise in with black limestone cliffs towering around you, and the lagoon water looks startlingly blue in spots. This is one of the rare places where you can both admire and get into the action.

You typically get about 45 minutes here, including time for photos, sightseeing, swimming, and kayaking. Kayak time is a big deal because it gives you a different angle on the cliffs and lets you glide into calmer pockets of water. Even if you skip kayaking, the swim time is often the best way to actually experience the lagoon.

What I love most is the timing control that private touring offers. Guides can steer you toward the best moments to enjoy the area. In practice, people often choose this private setup specifically to avoid the dense feel of group boat crowds.

Shimizu Island: Turtle Swim and Snorkel Time Without the Rush

Shimizu Island is where the day gets extra memorable. This is the stop built around swimming and snorkeling, and it is also the highlight for spotting majestic turtles. The schedule usually gives you about 1 hour total, with a break, lunch, and water time.

I like that Shimizu is not just a one-shot viewing stop. It is designed for getting in and staying in, and it is the kind of place where you can linger when the water is clear and the current is gentle.

Practical advice from the field: wear water shoes. There can be lots of stone and coral in the water, and getting your footing matters before you even reach the boat. A dry bag is also a smart move because you may end up getting your clothes wet on the way to the boat, even before you think about snorkeling gear.

One more thing: mask and snorkel are not listed as included, though they can be rented. If you already own your gear, bring it. If not, plan a quick rental decision so you are not delayed mid-day.

Secret Lagoon Through the Grotto: Small Entrance, Big Atmosphere

Secret Lagoon is one of those spots that feels like you are entering another world. You go for a photo stop, sightseeing, and swimming, and it takes about 45 minutes. The defining feature is that the lagoon sits hidden between steep limestone cliffs, reached through a narrow grotto-like entrance.

I love the feel here because the setting is naturally dramatic. It is serene, almost dreamlike, and the cliff walls make the water feel calmer and more sheltered than the open sea.

The one consideration is that the experience is more about the atmosphere than about having tons of space. If you like swimming in wider, open water, this stop might feel tighter. That said, it is still a must-do for most people because the views are distinctive and the water looks great in shaded light.

Payong-Payong Beach: Gentle Water and Easy Time in the Sun

Payong-Payong Beach is a different kind of stop. It is about 45 minutes total, with photos, sightseeing, boat cruise time, swimming, and snorkeling. The cliffs and rock formations give it character, and the water is described as gentle and modest, which makes it friendly for casual paddling.

I like this place because it often works as a breather after the more iconic lagoon moments. If you want a relaxed beach feel, with time to swim without feeling constantly rushed, this stop usually delivers.

Possible drawback: snorkeling quality depends on conditions. You will still have a chance to swim and enjoy the scenery, but if the sea gets a bit rough or visibility dips, your focus should shift toward enjoying the beach and the cliffs rather than chasing perfect underwater clarity.

Lunch at Shimizu Island: Local Filipino Buffet, Real Fuel for the Day

Lunch is a buffet made with local Filipino dishes. It is included, and it is served during the Shimizu Island portion of the day. You also get bottled water included, which helps you stay comfortable while you are in and out of the boat.

One practical insight from real experiences: ask how dietary needs are handled. There was at least one case where lunch was adjusted for a seafood allergy, so it is not just about swallowing what is offered. If you have a specific limitation, tell your guide early so they can plan with the crew.

The only consistent warning I will give you is to not assume the drink situation will match your expectations unless you ask. One person had questions about soft drinks versus bottled water cups. The tour data clearly includes bottled water, so you can rely on that, but if beverages matter to you, check what is available.

Crew and Guide Energy: Safety, Timing, and Photo Help

This is where private tours often win. The licensed guide and crew are part of the included package, and safety equipment like life vests are provided. The day is built for you to enjoy the water, not just sit at the front and hope for the best.

I also love how much photo help can happen on this kind of tour. People mention guides taking photos and videos, and some guides are known for getting you to good angles without wasting time. Names that show up in real experiences include Gabi, Jason, Renz, Joshua, Edward, and Cyron, and captains like Jerry also get mentioned.

One more human detail: when weather turns, the crew tends to keep the mood up and work around the situation. That matters because a rough patch can happen in the tropics, and you want the day to stay enjoyable even if conditions are not perfect.

What to Bring: The Stuff That Makes or Breaks Water Days

Here is what you should bring so the day feels smooth from start to finish:

• Sun hat and camera, because you will be stopping often
• Swimwear, a towel, and a change of clothes for after
• Cash, for fees and any rentals
• Beachwear and a dry layer if you get wet during boarding

Snorkeling gear is not included as a standard item, but masks and snorkels can be rented. Fins or aqua shoes are also not included, so if you are sensitive on coral or slippery rocks, bring your own. Kayak rental is not included at the lagoon, even though kayaking is listed as part of Big Lagoon activities. If you want to kayak, confirm what you will pay for once you are there.

Also note what is not allowed: intoxication, smoking in the vehicle, plastic bottles, and littering. If you are the kind of person who wants to bring a reusable bottle, do it, but skip plastic bottles.

Weather and Stop Changes: How to Keep Control of the Day

The tour is designed with real-world flexibility. Destinations can change due to weather conditions, and the lunch stop is determined by the guide. That means you should not treat every stop as guaranteed, even though the plan is clear.

The upside is that a good guide will adjust to protect the best water time. Many people book private for exactly this reason: if you are adaptable and communicate, you can often reduce stress and maximize what you actually get to experience.

If you really care about a specific stop, like Big Lagoon or Secret Lagoon, tell your guide early in the day. Your priorities can affect how the crew sequences the plan, especially if there is rain, wind, or waves.

Price and Value: Is $135 Worth It for a Private Boat?

At $135 per person for an 8-hour private Tour A, you are paying for time plus access. You are not just buying tickets to famous places. You are buying the chance to control pacing and reduce crowd pressure.

That value gets stronger if:

• You are traveling as a couple or small group who would otherwise sit in crowded boats
• You want more personal guide attention and photo help
• You care about spending extra minutes in water rather than waiting for everyone else

The main “hidden” value check is what is not included. Environmental fees and lagoon entrance fees are not included, and you may also pay for rentals like mask and snorkel, and kayak use at the lagoon. Those costs are normal for protected areas, but they matter for your total budget.

My honest math: if you compare this to group Tour A options, the private boat premium often buys you comfort, less hassle, and better timing. If you are flexible and you really want the lagoon experience at your own pace, that premium can feel justified quickly.

Who This Tour Suits Best, and Who Should Skip

This private island hopping tour is ideal for:

• Couples who want a quieter day with more time in the water
• Friends or small groups who want your own boat rhythm
• Snorkel lovers who want multiple swim stops, not just one

It may be less suitable if you need wheelchair access. The tour is not listed as suitable for wheelchair users, and water entry conditions can be part of the experience.

If you are someone who hates uncertainty, keep in mind that weather can reorder or swap stops. But if you are the type who can appreciate a slightly different plan as long as the lagoons and swim time deliver, you will probably enjoy this a lot.

Should You Book This Private Tour A? My Call

Book it if your top priority is iconic El Nido lagoon scenery plus real water time, without the crowded, conveyor-belt feel. The itinerary is built around the places most people dream about: Seven Commandos, Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Secret Lagoon, and Payong-Payong Beach.

I would especially book if you value guide attention and timing. People highlight how guides like Gabi and Cyron help with pacing, photos, and staying safe, and that tends to make the whole day feel smoother.

Skip or reconsider if you are budget-strapped and cannot handle extra fees and potential rentals, or if you dislike any chance of stop changes due to weather. In El Nido, conditions can shift, but a private setup gives you the best chance to keep the day enjoyable anyway.

FAQ

How long is the private island hopping Tour A in El Nido?

The tour duration is listed as 8 hours.

Is this tour truly private with an exclusive boat?

Yes. It is described as a private tour with exclusive use of the boat for your group.

Where is pickup included?

Pickup is included within 1 km of Corong-corong Beach, using a tuk-tuk.

What is included in the price?

Included items are a buffet lunch, bottled water, life vests, a licensed tourist boat, and a licensed guide and crew.

Do I need to bring snorkeling gear or can I rent it?

Mask and snorkel are not included, but they can be rented if you do not have them. Fins or aqua shoes are also not included.

Are lagoon entrance fees and environmental fees included?

No. The environmental fee and lagoon entrance fee are government-mandated and not included.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?

No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users.