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

Big Lagoon is the star here, but the real advantage is having a private boat to adjust the order of your stops. Guides such as Gabi, Jason, Renz, and Cyron have been praised for timing visits around the crowds, taking photos, and keeping the day relaxed. You get the classic El Nido scenery without being tied to a large group’s schedule.

I like the mix of lagoons, beaches, and snorkeling, and I like that lunch is served on the islands rather than treated as an afterthought. The main catch is cost: at $135 per person, this makes the most sense for a small group that values space and flexibility. Environmental and lagoon fees, kayak hire, and some snorkeling equipment are extra.

Key points at a glance

• Big Lagoon is the main event: Black limestone cliffs and bright blue water create El Nido’s most recognizable view.
• A private boat gives you room to adjust: Your guide can sometimes change the order of stops to reduce crowding.
• Five scenic stops fill the day: Expect beaches, two lagoons, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and a Filipino buffet lunch.
• The crew earns strong marks for care: Guides have helped with photos, allergies, safety, and even an urgent hospital trip.
• Budget for extras: Environmental charges, lagoon entry, kayak rental, and masks or fins are not included.
• Bring water shoes and a dry bag: You may need to walk through shallow water to reach the boat, and coral or stones can make bare feet unhappy.

Why Tour A remains El Nido’s classic day on the water

El Nido’s Tour A is popular for a good reason. It brings together the area’s most famous sights in one full day, with the black limestone walls of Miniloc Island providing the backdrop for nearly every stop.

This is not just a beach-hopping trip. You move between enclosed lagoons, open beaches, rock formations, and coral-rich water. That variety matters. If the sea is too choppy for a long snorkel, you still have a lagoon or beach to enjoy. If one stop is crowded, a private crew may be able to change the sequence.

The boat is reserved for your group, so you are not sharing the day with a large party of strangers. That can mean a quieter lunch, more help getting in and out of the water, and extra time for photographs. It does not mean every stop will be empty. Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon are major attractions, and conditions vary by date and weather.

The tour lasts about eight hours. Pickup is available by tuk-tuk within one kilometer of Corong-Corong Beach, with the ride to the departure area taking about five minutes. Hotel drop-off is not included, so plan your return to your accommodation after the boat trip.

Seven Commandos Beach starts the day gently

Seven Commandos Beach is scheduled as the first main stop, with about 45 minutes for photographs, swimming, and looking around. The beach is framed by limestone cliffs and has a relaxed, tropical feel.

The name comes from a group of troops who were stranded there during World War II. You do not come here for a museum or a formal history talk. The appeal is the setting: pale sand, clear water, and cliffs that give the beach a sheltered character.

Forty-five minutes is enough for a swim and a few photographs, though it can feel short if you want a long stretch of sunbathing. The water and sand may also be busier than you hope, especially when several boats arrive close together. Ask your guide if the timing can be adjusted. One advantage of the private format is that the crew may be able to put this stop earlier or later.

Big Lagoon delivers the signature view

Big Lagoon is the reason many people choose Tour A. The lagoon sits among tall black limestone cliffs, with striking blue water running through a narrow, scenic entrance. The contrast between the dark rock and the bright water makes this the most photogenic part of the day.

You have around 45 minutes here for sightseeing, swimming, photographs, and possibly kayaking. Kayak rental is not included, so check the current charge before you set off. One past booking also led to confusion over whether a kayak was included in the price, so confirm exactly what you are paying for at the lagoon.

The water inside the lagoon is the focus, not a long beach stop. You may spend part of the visit in a kayak and part in the water, depending on the conditions and local rules. A guide can help you find good photo angles and manage the transfer from the boat.

This is also where crowd management matters most. The private boat does not provide a private lagoon, but the guide may be able to visit at a quieter time. Several people specifically valued having the order changed to avoid the thickest crowds. If Big Lagoon is your top priority, tell the guide at the start of the day.

The government-mandated lagoon entrance fee is not included. Add it to your budget before comparing this tour with a cheaper group boat.

Shimizu Island combines lunch and snorkeling

Shimizu Island is scheduled for about an hour and serves as the main lunch and snorkeling stop. The island has calm water beneath large limestone cliffs, making it a pleasant place to pause after the first two attractions.

Lunch is a Filipino buffet with local dishes. Portions are generally intended for sharing, and the amount can be more than two people need. That is useful for a larger group, but couples may find there is a great deal of food. One visitor also noted that the food was the only weak point of an otherwise excellent day, while another found the lunch delicious. Set your expectations at simple island catering, not restaurant dining.

If anyone in your group has a seafood allergy, tell the operator before departure. A seafood-free lunch was arranged for one couple, which shows that dietary communication can make a real difference. Do not wait until food is already being served.

The water around Shimizu is used for swimming and snorkeling. The tour description also highlights the chance to see majestic turtles here, but wildlife is never guaranteed. Bring your own mask, snorkel, fins, and water shoes if possible. Masks and snorkels can be rented, but they are not included, and fins or aqua shoes are also excluded.

Secret Lagoon is small, dramatic, and physical

Secret Lagoon is reached through a narrow opening in the limestone, leading into a sheltered space that once formed part of a cave. The entrance is part of the experience, but it also means this stop is not suitable for everyone.

You get around 45 minutes for photographs, sightseeing, and swimming. The enclosed setting can feel quiet and striking, especially when the light catches the rock. It is a very different experience from the open beach at Seven Commandos.

Take care on the approach. Stones and coral can make the water entry awkward, and water shoes are useful. If the sea is rough, the transfer may feel less comfortable. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and the narrow access confirms why this is a physically demanding outing.

Secret Lagoon is not a place to expect a long swim. The attraction is the passage through the rock and the unusual enclosed pool beyond it. Keep your belongings in a dry bag and avoid carrying anything you cannot afford to get wet.

Payong-Payong Beach offers the slowest pause

Payong-Payong Beach is a small, attractive stop with rock formations, cliffs, and gentle waves. It is well suited to a beach picnic, casual swimming, or a few quiet photographs.

The scheduled visit lasts about 45 minutes. That is enough time to paddle and enjoy the setting, though you may wish you had longer if the beach is calm and uncrowded. The private format can help here because you may be able to ask for a little more time, subject to the guide’s schedule and local conditions.

This stop gives the day some breathing room. Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon are about rock and enclosed water, while Payong-Payong is simply a small beach with a calm feel. I would not choose the tour for this stop alone, but it helps balance the busier headline attractions.

The destination list can change if weather or sea conditions require it. Lunch location can also be decided by the guide. That flexibility is practical, not a flaw, but you should accept that the advertised order is not a promise.

What the private format is really worth

At $135 per person, this is a premium day trip. The price includes a private licensed tourist boat, licensed guide and crew, buffet lunch, bottled water, life vests, and tuk-tuk pickup within one kilometer of Corong-Corong Beach.

The value improves as your group grows, since the boat cost is shared among more people. For two people, it is a splurge. For a family or group of friends, the price can feel more reasonable because you are buying control of the boat, personal attention, and space to change the schedule.

I would choose private over group if you care about photographs, dislike waiting for strangers, have a special food need, or want the chance to avoid the busiest arrival times. The crew has been especially well regarded for taking photos and videos, helping with safety, and making people feel looked after. One solo participant was made comfortable throughout the day, while another guide and crew stayed with a sick passenger during an urgent hospital visit.

Still, private does not mean every service is included. You pay separately for the environmental fee and lagoon entrance fee. Masks and snorkels may be rented, but fins and aqua shoes are not included. Kayaking at Big Lagoon also costs extra.

There was one complaint about soft drinks being expected but not supplied, along with confusion about kayak inclusion. The safest approach is to confirm every extra before departure and keep cash with you. Do not rely on a vague assumption that drinks or a lagoon kayak are part of the package.

The crew is a major part of the experience

The strongest pattern from the feedback is the crew’s attitude. Guides named Gabi, Jason, Renz, Cyron, Edward, Joshua, and Jayson were singled out for friendliness, attention, safe handling, good photographs, and crowd-aware timing.

That matters on an island day. You need help stepping from the boat, locating a good swim area, carrying lunch, and keeping track of belongings. A guide who pays attention can also adjust the pace if you are tired or if the water becomes rough.

Do not expect the same guide every time. The booking includes English and Tagalog, but the specific guide depends on the day. You can expect a live guide and crew, not a self-guided rental.

Bad weather can affect the outing. Rain may dull the water color and reduce the appeal of the photographs, and rougher water can make boarding less pleasant. One rainy-day trip still worked hard to keep the mood upbeat, but even a helpful crew cannot control the sky. If the forecast is poor, use the free cancellation option and cancel at least 24 hours ahead if you decide not to go.

Practical packing for an easier boat day

Bring a sun hat, swimwear, beach clothes, a change of clothes, a towel, a camera, and cash. A dry bag is one of the most useful additions, since you may get wet before reaching the boat and spray can reach your belongings during transfers.

Water shoes or aqua shoes are strongly worth bringing. The entry points can contain stones and coral, and bare feet are not ideal for walking from shore to boat. Bring your own snorkeling equipment if fit and cleanliness matter to you, though masks and snorkels can be rented.

Single-use plastic bottles are not allowed, and littering is prohibited. Bottled water is supplied, so follow the crew’s instructions rather than bringing extra plastic containers.

Smoking in the vehicle and intoxication are not allowed. These rules are sensible on a small boat and during tuk-tuk transfers, where space and safety are limited.

You may need to wade through water to board. Wear clothes that can get wet, or keep your change of clothes in the dry bag rather than in an exposed beach tote.

Who will enjoy this private Tour A most

This tour suits couples, families, and groups of friends who want El Nido’s main sights without sharing the boat with a large party. It is also a good fit if you want help with photographs or if you value a guide who can spend more time with your group.

Snorkelers will appreciate the stops at Shimizu Island and Payong-Payong Beach, while beach lovers get several chances to swim and sit on white sand. Photographers will benefit from the limestone cliffs, lagoon entrances, and the crew’s willingness to take pictures.

It is less suitable if you need wheelchair access, want a low-cost day, or dislike getting wet during boat transfers. It is also not ideal for anyone expecting guaranteed turtles, empty beaches, or a fully inclusive price.

Should you book it?

I would book this tour if Big Lagoon is high on your El Nido list and you can share the $135 cost with a group. The private boat, flexible timing, attentive crew, and mix of stops give it more value than a simple transport service.

For two people on a tight budget, compare the total cost after environmental, lagoon, kayak, and equipment fees. For a small group that wants photos, personal service, and a less rushed day, Poseidon Tours and Expeditions offers a strong version of El Nido’s classic Tour A. Pack water shoes, protect your camera, confirm the extras, and tell the guide early if you need a special lunch.

FAQ

How long does the El Nido private Tour A last?

The tour lasts about eight hours, including the boat trip and visits to the beaches, lagoons, and snorkeling areas.

What locations are included?

The planned stops are Seven Commandos Beach, Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Secret Lagoon, and Payong-Payong Beach. The guide may change the destinations or order because of weather conditions.

Is this a private boat tour?

Yes. The boat is for private use by your group, with a licensed guide and crew.

Is pickup included?

Free tuk-tuk pickup is included within one kilometer of Corong-Corong Beach in El Nido. Hotel drop-off is not included.

Is lunch provided?

Yes. A buffet lunch with local Filipino dishes is included. Tell the operator ahead of time about food allergies or special dietary needs.

Are snorkeling masks and fins included?

No. Masks and snorkels can be rented if needed, while fins and aqua shoes are not included.

Is kayaking at Big Lagoon included?

No. Kayak rental at the lagoon is an extra charge. Confirm the current fee before using one.

Are entrance and environmental fees included?

No. The government-mandated environmental fee and lagoon entrance fee are separate from the tour price.

Can I cancel the booking?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The reservation option also allows you to book now and pay later.