El Nido Big Lagoon and Tropical Island Private Tour with Transfer

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, and pristine beaches, chances are you’ve already heard about El Nido in Palawan, Philippines. This private tour promises a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and lounging in some of El Nido’s most famous spots. While it’s designed for those seeking a personalized experience, it’s worth knowing what you’re getting—and what you might not.

What we like about this tour:
First, the private transfer from your hotel ensures a hassle-free start. Second, the expert English-speaking guide makes navigation and storytelling engaging and informative. Third, the all-included approach—lunch, entrance fees, and water—means fewer surprises on the day.

However, a potential drawback is the price point—at $179 per person, it’s on the higher side compared to group tours. For travelers seeking a more budget-friendly experience, this might feel steep, especially considering some reviews mention it as “extremely overpriced” when booked online. That said, for those craving exclusivity and comfort, the personal touch may justify the cost.

This tour is ideal for travelers who value convenience, personalized service, and want a curated experience of El Nido’s top spots without the hassle of arranging each element themselves.

• Private transportation ensures hassle-free transfers from your hotel.
• The guided experience provides local insights and ease of navigation.
• All entrance fees, lunch, and water are included for convenience.
• The itinerary covers major highlights: Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Seven Commandos Beach, and Payong-Payong Beach.
• Timing totals around 9 hours, perfect for a full day of exploring.
• The experience is best suited for those comfortable with moderate physical activity and looking for a private, curated tour.

This private adventure offers a well-rounded taste of El Nido’s most photogenic spots, blending natural beauty with relaxing downtime. Let’s break down each stop and what makes it special.

Big Lagoon: The Iconic Gateway

The tour kicks off with a visit to the Big Lagoon, arguably El Nido’s most recognizable feature. The calm waters, framed by towering limestone cliffs, create a scene straight out of a postcard. You’ll sail in a traditional outrigger boat—an authentic touch—and get plenty of chances to snap photos of the dramatic scenery.

Authentic tip: The journey through the lagoon is peaceful, and the clear waters are perfect for a quick swim. From reviews, we know that guides like Jake excel at making sure everyone gets good angles and feels comfortable during the boat rides.

Shimizu Island: Lunch with a View

Next, the tour stops at Shimizu Island for a delicious, included lunch. It’s a prime chance to relax on the white sandy beach and enjoy the vibrant marine life snorkeling just offshore. Reviewers mention that the lunch quality is good, and the island’s scenery provides a stunning backdrop for a meal.

Note: Shimizu Island is also the site for snorkeling, so bring your gear if you’re keen to see coral reefs and colorful fish. The all-inclusive nature means you don’t need to worry about extra costs or arrangements.

Secret Lagoon: A Hidden Gem

One of the tour’s highlights is the Secret Lagoon, accessed through a small limestone opening. Once inside, you find a tiny, enclosed pool surrounded by cliffs—an intimate spot for a quick dip or photos. The small opening can be tricky for some, so a moderate level of agility helps.

Insight from reviews: Guides like Jake are experienced in helping guests navigate these openings, and visitors appreciate the “hidden” aspect that makes this lagoon feel like a secret discovery.

Seven Commandos Beach: Fun and Relaxation

As the afternoon unfolds, the group heads to Seven Commandos Beach, a stretch of sand perfect for unwinding or engaging in light activities like volleyball. Many visitors enjoy the laid-back vibe, the sound of waves, and the opportunity to grab a fresh coconut.

Travel tip: This stop offers a welcome break from boat rides and snorkeling, giving you a chance to stretch and soak up the tropical atmosphere.

Payong-Payong Beach: A Peaceful Finish

The last stop is Payong-Payong Beach, where you can relax on the soft sands, take a dip, or just enjoy the scenery. It’s an ideal place to wind down after a busy day and reflect on the incredible sights.

Transportation and Duration: The round-trip private transfer from your hotel means no waiting or crowded vans, which enhances comfort, especially after long boat rides. The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, giving enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Guides and Service: The guide’s knowledge can significantly impact your experience. Based on a review, Jake was praised as an “excellent guide,” who made the tour engaging and smooth. Having an English-speaking guide ensures you understand the significance of each site and can ask questions freely.

Pricing and Value: At $179, this tour is priced higher than some group options, but the private setup offers exclusivity and personalized attention. Reviewers like Shawn noted the service was “great”, but also “extremely overpriced” when booked online. The value is therefore dependent on your preference for comfort and exclusivity versus budget.

Itinerary Highlights: The stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase El Nido’s most iconic sights. The Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon provide a sense of wonder; Shimizu Island offers both relaxation and snorkeling; Seven Commandos and Payong-Payong beaches deliver downtime and scenic beauty.

What to Bring: Comfortable clothing, swim gear, sun protection, and a waterproof camera are essential. The tour includes bottled water, but bringing extra snacks or floatation devices can enhance your experience.

Reviews reveal that guides like Jake are skilled and knowledgeable, making the experience more enjoyable. However, travelers should be aware of the cost—some feel that the online price is high compared to local offerings. Booking in advance guarantees availability but compare prices if you’re looking for a better deal.

Timing is key: the tour begins early to maximize time at each stop, so be prepared for a full day of activity. Moderate physical fitness is recommended since some spots, like the Secret Lagoon opening, require a bit of agility.

Finally, since this is a private tour, it’s tailored to your group’s pace and preferences—ideal for families, romantic getaways, or small groups of friends seeking exclusivity.

This private tour suits those who prioritize comfort, personalized service, and hassle-free planning. If you value expert guidance and a curated route of El Nido’s highlights without the crowds, this experience is for you. It’s also a good choice for travelers who enjoy a mix of relaxation, adventure, and striking scenery.

That said, budget-conscious travelers might find it a bit steep, especially considering some reviews mention the high online price. For independent backpackers or those on a tight budget, group tours or local arrangements might offer comparable sights at a lower cost.

This private El Nido tour offers an impressive lineup of the area’s most photogenic and memorable spots. The combination of luxury, expert guiding, and all-inclusive convenience makes it a solid choice for those seeking a stress-free, picturesque day in Palawan.

It’s particularly appealing if you’re after a more intimate experience and don’t mind paying a little extra for that privacy and comfort. However, if you’re a budget traveler willing to sacrifice some extras, there are likely more economical options that still hit the main highlights.

This tour balances the stunning scenery of El Nido with attentive service, making it a worthwhile option for travelers who want a thoughtfully curated, scenic adventure.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended, especially since some spots like the Secret Lagoon opening may require some agility. The boat rides are comfortable, but be prepared for some walking and swimming.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers private round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, all entrance fees, lunch, and bottled water. Extra expenses like souvenirs or additional snacks are not included.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, from pickup to drop-off, allowing plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour booked directly through ForeverVacation, there’s potential for some customization based on your preferences—discuss this with your guide.

Do I need to bring my snorkeling gear?
While snorkeling equipment is not provided, many stops, especially Shimizu Island, are ideal for snorkeling. Bringing your own gear can enhance your experience.

What should I wear and bring?
Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing, swimwear, and sun protection. Bring a waterproof camera, hat, sunglasses, and extra water or snacks if desired.

In summary, the El Nido Big Lagoon and Tropical Island Private Tour offers a well-rounded day of natural beauty, personalized service, and relaxed exploration. It’s best suited for travelers craving a private, guided experience with comfort and convenience at the forefront.