El Nido Tour D: Cadlao Lagoon, Nat Nat & Hidden Beaches — A Day on Bacuit Bay
Difficulty
easy
Duration
7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be comfortable swimming short distances and paddling a kayak for 10–30 minutes.
Overview
Spend a full day on Bacuit Bay exploring Cadlao’s crystal lagoon, cliff-ringed inlets, and quiet beaches like Nat Nat. This seven-hour boat tour mixes kayaking, snorkeling, and beach time—ideal for those who want varied marine experiences without heavy hiking.
El Nido Tour D: Cadlao Lagoon, Nat Nat & Hidden Beaches — A Day on Bacuit Bay
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It begins before the sun has climbed high: you step aboard a bangka at El Nido’s floating dock, salt on your skin and a motor’s steady thrum underfoot. The bay peels away in slices of turquoise and teal, while limestone towers—ancient reef turned cliff—rise like unfinished sculptures. Within an hour the boat slips into the quiet of a compact lagoon; the water hushes the engine and the world narrows to a circle of sky and limestone. Kayaks rattle as guests push off and paddle through water so clear you can read the coral gardens below.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Protect marine life and avoid fines—apply reef-safe sunscreen before boarding and reapply with a towel-dry method on the boat.
Bring water shoes
Many beach entries are rocky or shelly; water shoes make snorkeling entries and short walks far more comfortable.
Pack a dry bag and waterproof phone case
A small, secure dry bag keeps valuables safe during boat transfers and while kayaking—phones and wallets are easy to lose on a bangka.
Start early and pace your day
Tour departs in the morning; bring snacks and hydrate—each stop is about an hour, so plan photo and snorkel time accordingly.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Green sea turtles
- Colorful reef fish (parrotfish, butterflyfish)
History
The Bacuit archipelago formed from uplifted coral and limestone; local Tagbanwa communities and fishermen have interacted with these islands for generations.
Conservation
Parts of Bacuit are designated marine protected areas—avoid stepping on coral, use reef-safe products, and follow guide instructions to minimize impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in El Nido
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Dry bag (10L)
Keeps phone, passport, and small electronics dry during boat rides and in wet conditions.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin and the local coral reef—apply before boarding.
Water shoes
Protects feet on rocky shore entries and makes scrambling over limestone safer.
Light wind/rain jacket
Useful if weather shifts or for spray on open boat runs.