Exploring El Nido: Big Lagoon Kayaking & Island Adventure

Getting a glimpse of El Nido’s famed limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters is a must for anyone visiting Palawan. This 6-hour tour offers a well-rounded taste of the archipelago’s best, blending adventure and relaxation seamlessly. While it’s a popular choice—meaning some spots can get crowded—you’ll find that the stunning scenery and friendly guides make every moment worthwhile.

We love that this tour combines kayaking through the Big Lagoon, snorkeling over colorful reefs, and lounging on pristine beaches. The delicious Filipino-style lunch at Shimizu Island is a bonus, offering a true taste of local flavors. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the schedule can be quite packed, so bringing plenty of energy and patience is key. Perfect for first-timers and seasoned travelers craving a taste of paradise, especially if you’re after a balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and local charm.

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Key Points

Iconic spots like Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon are included, offering unforgettable photo opportunities.
Professional guides keep the trip fun, safe, and informative, often adding humor and local insights.
Snorkeling at vibrant reefs promises encounters with tropical fish and colorful corals.
The beach lunch at Shimizu Island is hearty, flavorful, and served in a picture-perfect setting.
The tour offers value for money, with plenty of activities packed into six hours at just $22.
Crowds can be an issue at popular spots, so be prepared for some busy moments.

Looking for more options in El Nido? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Experience Breakdown

Starting Point: Marbers Restobar

The adventure kicks off at Marbers, a casual spot on Calle Hama Beach Front. The instructions are straightforward—look for Annabelle or any staff of Alexzus Travel. The proximity to the water means you’re quickly immersed in the island vibe, and the meeting point’s central location makes it easy for most travelers to access.

Seven Commandos Beach: A Relaxing First Stop

The tour begins with a visit to Seven Commandos Beach, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour, sightseeing, and safety briefing. The drive along the way offers scenic views of the surrounding islands. Reviewers mention that it takes about an hour here, which is enough time to soak in the white sand, play some volleyball, or just lounge with a coconut in hand.

Pro tip: Bring sun protection and a hat—shade is limited, and the Filipino sun is strong. It’s a great spot to start unwinding and snapping some photos.

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Big Lagoon: Kayaking Through a Natural Masterpiece

Next, the highlight for many is paddling across the Big Lagoon. Gliding on calm, mirror-like waters framed by towering limestone cliffs feels like being in a postcard. Reviewers mention this is a photographers’ dream, and the peaceful vibe makes it perfect for a relaxing paddle.

Worth noting: During busy times, kayak availability can be limited, requiring patience. One reviewer shared they had to return to the lagoon multiple times because kayaks were booked out initially, but the crew was flexible, and the wait was worth it.

There's plenty more to explore in El Nido

Snorkeling at Shimizu Island: A Vibrant Underwater World

Midday is spent at Shimizu Island, which turns out to be a snorkeling paradise. The reefs are teeming with tropical fish and coral, offering lively underwater sights. Reviewers describe it as “a lot of beautiful fish and coral,” and the shallow waters make it accessible even for less confident swimmers.

The lunch served on the beach is a real treat—grilled seafood, Filipino favorites, and tropical fruits in a stunning setting. One reviewer noted the variety was excellent, with plenty of options, although vegetarians might find the menu somewhat limited.

Secret Lagoon: Discovering Hidden Natural Pools

Following lunch, the tour takes you to the Secret Lagoon, accessible through a narrow rock opening. It’s like stepping into a secluded world, with sheer limestone cliffs surrounding a tranquil pool. For those who can’t swim, the crew is attentive and helps guide you toward the entrance, which adds peace of mind.

Some guests mention that reaching the lagoon involves walking over rocks, so wearing water shoes or sandals with straps is advised. Bring footwear to avoid slipping or losing slippers in the water.

7 Commandos Beach: A Tranquil Wrap-up

The day ends back at 7 Commandos Beach, where you can relax, sunbathe, or play beach games. It’s the perfect place to unwind, enjoy a cold drink, and reflect on the day’s highlights. Reviewers appreciated the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to soak in those last rays of sun.

What to Expect and Practical Tips

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts about six hours, beginning in the morning and finishing in the early afternoon. It’s generally suitable for most fitness levels, but because of the activities involved—kayaking, snorkeling, walking on rocks—it’s best to be reasonably mobile. Private groups are available, which might offer a more personalized experience and flexibility.

Transportation & Logistics

Transport is provided from the meeting point at Marbers Restobar near Calle Hama Beach. The boat crew is described as professional, attentive, and friendly, with many reviewers noting the crew’s helpfulness and safe handling during transfers and activities.

Cost & Value

At $22 per person, this tour offers considerable value. It includes all the essentials—mask and snorkel gear, life vests, water, and a filling lunch—making the cost quite reasonable. With the amount of time spent exploring lagoons, beaches, and reefs, it’s a cost-effective way to see the highlights of El Nido without breaking the bank.

What to Bring

Travelers should pack essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, change of clothes, snacks, water, waterproof camera, and beachwear. Insect repellent and cash are also recommended. Bringing water shoes or sandals with straps is advised for rocky areas, particularly when visiting the Secret Lagoon.

Important Notes

The tour involves a lot of activities, so energy and stamina matter.
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to walking on rocks and boat transfers.
Expect some busy moments, especially at popular sites like the Big Lagoon.
Strictly no touching marine life, animals, or plants—respect for nature is emphasized.

Authentic Insights From Reviewers

A guest from the UK mentioned that “the crew helped everyone on and off the boat every time”, which contributed to a feeling of safety and care amid the busy schedule. Others highlighted the guides’ humor and local knowledge—“Arnold was funny and kept us entertained,” one reviewer shared—a sign that this tour isn’t just about scenery but also about enjoying the company and stories.

Many appreciated the delicious food, with several describing the lunch as hearty and flavorful. One reviewer noted the variety of options—prawns, grilled fish, chicken, fruits—that kept everyone satisfied in a stunning outdoor setting.

However, some pointed out that spots can be crowded, especially the lagoons, which is typical for such popular destinations. Arriving early or being flexible with timing can mitigate this.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a well-rounded day of adventure and relaxation. If you enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, and lounging on white-sand beaches, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s especially good for first-time visitors to El Nido wanting a comprehensive taste of the area’s top sights without the hassle of organizing separate excursions.

Those who value authentic local flavors, friendly guides, and scenic views will find this tour rewarding. It’s suitable for most ages, provided you’re comfortable with some walking and water activities, but not recommended for wheelchair users.

Final Thoughts

The Big Lagoon Kayaking & Island Adventure in El Nido offers a fantastic snapshot of Palawan’s natural beauty. It balances active pursuits like kayaking and snorkeling with relaxing beach time and a delicious local lunch. At an affordable price point, it provides excellent value, especially with knowledgeable guides who keep the atmosphere lively and safe.

While it’s a busy tour—inevitable given the popularity of these spots—you’ll leave with memories of stunning landscapes, vibrant marine life, and plenty of fun stories. This experience suits travelers eager to see the highlights without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

If you’re after a comprehensive, fun-filled day in El Nido that captures the essence of the Philippines’ natural charm, this tour should be on your list.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a professional boat crew, fun and energetic local guides, mask and snorkel gear, life vests, a beach lunch at Shimizu Island, and drinking water.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, starting from the meeting point in the morning and finishing in the early afternoon.

Is this tour suitable for children or less confident swimmers?
Most activities are manageable for a range of ages, but children should be comfortable with water activities and walking on rocks. The crew is attentive and offers assistance, especially at the Secret Lagoon.

What should I bring?
Pack sunglasses, a sun hat, change of clothes, snacks, water, waterproof camera, beachwear, insect repellent, and cash. Water shoes or sandals with straps are also recommended.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to walking on rocks and boat transfers. Touching marine life, animals, or plants is prohibited to protect the environment.

What if the lagoons are crowded?
Crowding can occur at popular sites like Big Lagoon. Arriving early or being flexible with timing may help avoid the busiest periods.

Is vegetarian food available?
The lunch menu is mostly Filipino favorites with grilled seafood and chicken. Vegetarians might find limited options, so consider bringing a snack just in case.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Is there an option for private groups?
Yes, private groups can be accommodated, offering a more personalized experience tailored to your pace and interests.

In the end, this tour offers a lively, scenic, and tasty introduction to El Nido’s top sights. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting a full day of island magic without overcomplicating plans.