Spend a full day island-hopping El Nido’s iconic Bacuit Archipelago: paddle into Big Lagoon, slip through the Secret Lagoon, snorkel at Shimizu, and unwind on 7 Commandos Beach. This practical guide tells you what to expect, what to pack, and how to make the most of the day trip.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning light slices between limestone karsts as the banca slides out of El Nido town harbor. Salt tang and motor oil mix with the hush of open water; within 30–40 minutes the cliffs rise like doors, and Big Lagoon’s glassy pool waits, framed by sheer limestone and mangrove roots. The tour threads through tight passes — a dim slit into the Secret Lagoon, then out to powder-white Payong-Payong Beach, the snorkeling shallows at Shimizu, and the broad sands of 7 Commandos where volleyball and shaded huts punctuate the shore.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; be able to climb in/out of a small boat and swim or float for short snorkel sessions.
Wildlife
History
El Nido’s name derives from Spanish-era coastal settlements; the Bacuit Archipelago has long been fished by indigenous communities and later became a conservation and tourism focus in Palawan.
Conservation
Local operators work with municipal authorities to limit visitor impact through boat permits and designated drop zones; use reef‑safe products and avoid touching coral to help preserve the reef.
Reserve your spot on the El Nido Island Tour A today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Book an early departure
Morning trips usually find calmer seas and smaller crowds at Big Lagoon and the Secret Lagoon; arrive at the meeting point by 8:15–8:30 AM.
Use reef‑safe sunscreen
Apply biodegradable sunscreen before boarding and reapply from a small bottle on the beach to protect corals and marine life.
Bring water shoes
Limestone edges and lagoon entrances can be sharp and slippery—water shoes protect feet and improve traction when scrambling over rocks.
Carry small cash
Vendors on 7 Commandos and boat crews accept cash for snacks, tips, and basic rentals—ATMs in El Nido town can be limited.
Snorkel mask and fins
Personal gear fits better and improves snorkeling at Shimizu and near Payong‑Payong Beach.
Waterproof dry bag
Keeps phone, camera, and spare clothes dry during boat transfers and inside lagoons.
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Protects your skin and the marine environment during midday sun exposure.
summer
Light quick‑dry shirt and water shoes
Shields from sun and provides traction on limestone and wet surfaces.
summer