El Nido and Coron: 3-Day 2-Night Island-Hopping Tour

Traveling through Palawan’s stunning waters is often considered one of the best ways to see the archipelago’s natural beauty. This 3-day, 2-night island-hopping tour by We Are Juan offers a unique opportunity to explore the less-traveled side of Palawan’s northern islands. Instead of sticking to pre-set itineraries, this trip emphasizes spontaneity, local immersion, and authentic experiences, making it perfect for adventurous souls craving more than just typical tourist sights.

What we love most about this experience is the focus on local guides who know the area inside out, the chance to sleep in traditional Nipa Huts under the stars, and the freedom to decide how you spend your days—whether snorkeling with sea turtles, kayaking in quiet lagoons, or lounging on deserted beaches. The mix of adventure, culture, and stunning scenery is compelling. However, one thing to consider is that the trip involves basic accommodations and a somewhat rustic vibe, which might not suit everyone’s comfort expectations.

This tour will appeal most to travelers who value authenticity, flexibility, and meaningful encounters with nature and local life. If you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group craving a social adventure with a personal touch, this is a fantastic choice. Those seeking a rigid itinerary or luxury amenities might want to look elsewhere, but for those looking for a genuine, off-the-beaten-path journey, this promises a memorable escape.

Key Points

• Authentic, flexible island-hopping designed around the group’s mood and conditions
• Knowledgeable local guides who prioritize safety and personalized experiences
• Living in the moment with no fixed schedule, allowing spontaneous adventures
• Comfortable Nipa Huts for overnight stays, offering a traditional yet cozy sleeping option
• Diverse activities including snorkeling, kayaking, and beach lounging
• Delicious Filipino cuisine served on board, often highlighted as a tour highlight

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: Why This Tour Stands Out

This 3-day, 2-night adventure isn’t your typical island-hopping trip. Instead of a rigid schedule, it invites you to trust the crew’s expertise and follow your instincts. You’ll depart from either El Nido or Coron, two of Palawan’s most renowned gateways, and head into the less accessible parts of northern Palawan’s islands. Expect to find secluded beaches, thriving coral reefs, and quiet lagoons that are often missed by travelers rushing through the region.

What makes this tour special is the genuine focus on local culture and natural beauty. The guides, like JJ, Madock, and Juan, are praised for their friendliness, enthusiasm, and ability to make everyone feel like part of a family. The opportunity to sleep on traditional Nipa huts, enjoy freshly prepared Filipino meals, and wake up on a remote island encapsulates the sense of raw adventure many travelers seek.

While the experience is highly praised for its authenticity and value, it’s worth noting that accommodations are rustic, with tents or simple huts, and amenities are basic. If you’re after a luxury getaway, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re open to living simply and embracing island life, this trip offers a genuine taste of Palawan’s true character.

A Detailed Breakdown of the 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Departure and Island Discovery

You’ll start with a pre-departure briefing where your guides explain the plan and safety measures. Once on board, the boat is a well-equipped, licensed vessel with a knowledgeable captain and crew. This isn’t just about getting from point A to B; it’s about the journey and the stops along the way.

Expect the first day to be filled with snorkeling at vibrant reefs and exploring uninhabited islands. Several reviewers mentioned incredible stops—one described the snorkeling as “out of this world,” with the chance to see turtles and coral gardens. Guides like JJ go out of their way to involve the group, climbing coconut trees for fresh coconuts or diving for memorable underwater shots for guests’ GoPros.

Day 2: Remote Beaches and Cultural Encounters

The second day is about living the island life. You’ll wake up on a remote island, sleeping in traditional Nipa Huts with views of the ocean. The experience is described as “incredible,” with the crew preparing delicious Filipino dishes under the stars. The flexibility means you might spend extra time snorkeling, playing volleyball, or simply relaxing on a quiet beach.

This part of the tour highlights the authentic Filipino hospitality—reviewers mention how guides like Madock and Juan go beyond expectations to ensure everyone’s comfort and fun. Many enjoyed the bonfire nights, sharing stories and enjoying local rum and coke, adding a cozy, communal feel to the trip.

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Day 3: Concluding the Journey and Returning

On the final day, you’ll visit more hidden beaches or reefs, making the most of your last hours in this untouched part of Palawan. The route is carefully chosen based on weather, tides, and sea conditions, ensuring safety and the best possible experience. Many guests comment on how the route is tailored daily, allowing for spontaneous stops that turn into unforgettable moments.

By late afternoon, it’s time to head back to the starting point, with plenty of new memories and photos. As one reviewer put it, “the journey flies by way too fast,” but that’s often the sign of a truly engaging adventure.

What to Expect on the Boat and from Accommodation

The boat itself is described as comfortable and well-equipped, with life jackets, snorkeling gear, kayaks, and paddleboards included. The onboard chef prepares Filipino meals, which guests rave about as “delicious” and plentiful—perfect fuel for days full of activity.

Overnight stays are in Nipa Huts, traditional Filipino structures made from bamboo and palm thatched roofs. These huts come with mattresses, pillows, sheets, and mosquito nets—providing a rustic but comfortable base. Some reviews mention minor issues like leaks during stormy weather, but most guests found the experience charming rather than uncomfortable.

Activities and Flexibility

What sets this tour apart is its spontaneous nature—you’re encouraged to snorkel, kayak, lounge, or even play volleyball as you feel. The crew adapts routes based on weather, sea conditions, and group preferences. This offers a personalized feel that many guests appreciate, making each trip unique.

Food and Drink

Meals are a standout feature, often described as “fantastic,” with Filipino cuisine served fresh on board. Snacks, purified water, and drinks like rum and coke are included, ensuring you’re well-fed and refreshed throughout the journey.

Value for Money

At $335 per person, the tour offers an impressive combination of activities, accommodation, meals, and expert guides. The reviews highlight the great value given the personalized experiences, quality of guides, and access to remote locations that are hard to reach independently.

While some mention the basic amenities and the rustic nature of the huts, many guests see this as part of the charm—an authentic island experience rather than a luxury resort. The cost also covers all entrance fees, boat licensing, and safety equipment, streamlining the planning process.

Price vs. Experience

Considering the number of activities, quality of food, and the chance to sleep overnight on unspoiled islands, this tour delivers more than just a transit—it’s an adventure that creates genuine memories. The flexible, spontaneous approach offers a level of intimacy and discovery that many structured tours can’t match.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip caters best to adventurous travelers who crave a more authentic, unstructured escape. It’s ideal for solo travelers looking to meet like-minded explorers, couples seeking a romantic yet rustic getaway, or groups of friends wanting to share a unique experience.

Those who value local guides, culture, and living in the moment will find this tour particularly rewarding. On the flip side, if you prefer luxury accommodations or a fixed schedule, you might find the rustic conditions and spontaneous itinerary less appealing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $335 fee covers boat transportation, licensed guides and captains, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), snacks, drinks (including rum and coke), snorkeling gear, kayaks, paddleboards, overnight stays in Nipa Huts, and all entrance fees.

What should I bring?
Pack essentials like sunglasses, a hat, towel, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and cash. Since the huts are rustic, bring any personal items you might need for comfort, but keep your big bags stored safely under the boat.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 16, pregnant women, or wheelchair users due to the basic accommodation and the nature of the activities.

Can I pay later or book flexibly?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later. Cancellations are refundable if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Guests praise guides like JJ, Madock, and Juan for their friendliness, safety focus, and willingness to go above and beyond—climbing trees for coconuts, diving for underwater content, or creating a fun, inclusive atmosphere.

What kind of accommodation is provided?
You’ll sleep in traditional Nipa huts, which are simple and rustic but equipped with mattresses, pillows, sheets, and mosquito nets. Some reviews mention minor leaks during storms but generally find them cozy and a key part of the adventure.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Very. Routes are chosen daily based on weather and group preferences, allowing for spontaneous stops, extra snorkeling, beach lounging, or playing games.

What activities are included?
Snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, beach lounging, volleyball, bonfires, and possibly cliff jumping or turtle watching, depending on conditions and group wishes.

What’s the food like?
Guests consistently mention the Filipino cuisine as a highlight—fresh, tasty, and plentiful, often cooked by the onboard chef. Meals are served under the stars or in scenic locations, adding to the experience.

Is this tour worth the price?
Most guests agree it’s excellent value for the experience, activities, and authentic immersion. While accommodations are basic, the memories, scenery, and personal touches make it well worth the cost.

This El Nido to Coron island-hopping tour by We Are Juan offers an unfiltered, adventure-filled way to see Palawan. The focus on flexibility, local guides, and authentic living turns a simple boat trip into a memorable journey. It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize experiences over luxury, appreciate spontaneous adventures, and want to connect more deeply with Palawan’s natural beauty and local culture.

While the rustic accommodations and unpredictable weather might not appeal to everyone, those open to a genuine and personal island experience will find this tour rewarding. With stunning scenery, engaging guides, and delicious food, it’s a chance to create stories that last long after your trip ends.

Embark on this journey if you’re ready to chase the horizon, live in the moment, and discover Palawan’s hidden islands in the most authentic way possible.

You can check availability for your dates here: