El Nido 4-Day Trip Review 2025: Your Simple Guide

So you’re thinking about a quick escape to El Nido for four days and three nights. Honestly, it’s a brilliant idea. We recently mapped out what this kind of trip feels like for 2025, and seriously, it’s just about the perfect amount of time to get a real sense of the place. You know, you get enough sun, see those unbelievable lagoons, and still leave wanting to come back for more. This isn’t just a list of things to do; actually, it’s a look at the actual experience. Basically, think of me as a friend who just got back, spilling all the details over coffee. We will talk about what really works, what you might want to skip, and how to get that feeling of true paradise, at least for a little while. At the end of the day, that’s what a trip to a place like El Nido is all about.

Day 1: Arriving and Soaking It All In

Alright, your first day is more or less about getting there and getting settled. You’ll probably fly into Puerto Princesa and then take a van, which, to be honest, is a bit of a long ride, usually around five to six hours. Anyway, you could see a lot of the countryside this way. Alternatively, you might fly directly to Lio Airport, which is frankly much closer to El Nido town and saves a lot of travel time. Once you arrive, you’ll just feel the shift in the air. The atmosphere is kind of laid-back and full of the sound of tricycles and waves. For your stay, I mean, you can find anything from simple guesthouses to more up-market spots right on the water. We suggest finding a place near Corong-Corong Beach for some really great sunset views. On your first evening, you should just take it easy. As a matter of fact, you could just walk along the main beach in El Nido town. Many little places set up tables right on the sand for dinner, and honestly, eating freshly grilled seafood with your feet in the sand is a perfect start.

Finding Your Bearings

The town itself is pretty walkable, which is great. Basically, everything you need for the first night is within a few blocks. You’ll find tour operators on every corner, but I mean, there’s no need to book your island-hopping tour the second you arrive. You know, you can take some time to check out the prices and the different tour combinations available. Some operators, for example, offer private tours which could be a good choice if you’re with a small group. We just spent the first few hours getting lost in the little side streets. You’ll pretty much find small bakeries, fruit stands, and souvenir shops. Just buying a cold coconut and sitting on the seawall is, seriously, a wonderful way to begin your holiday. At the end of the day, it’s about slowing down to the island’s pace.

Day 2: The Famous Lagoons and Beaches

Okay, day two is almost always island-hopping day. This is really what you came for. Tour A is usually the most popular choice for first-timers, and frankly, for good reason. It typically takes you to the Big Lagoon, the Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Seven Commandos Beach. Getting on that traditional outrigger boat, a bangka, in the morning is a very special feeling. The Big Lagoon is just breathtaking; you’ll likely rent a kayak to paddle through its calm, stunningly clear waters, flanked by towering limestone cliffs. Honestly, you’ll be taking photos every two seconds. The Secret Lagoon is a little more adventurous, as you literally have to climb through a small hole in the rock face to get into a hidden pool. It’s sort of a unique experience. Lunch is often included and, I mean, it’s usually a feast of grilled fish, chicken, rice, and fresh fruit served on a quiet beach. It is absolutely a highlight.

Frankly, the moment our boat captain started grilling fish on the back of the boat near Shimizu Island, with the smell mixing with the salty air—that’s a memory that sort of sticks with you. It’s pretty much the simple things that make it so special.

You’ll likely spend the afternoon swimming and relaxing at Seven Commandos Beach, which has a very chilled vibe with a beach bar and coconut trees. By the time you get back to town, you’ll be tired in the best way possible. You know, a bit salty, very sun-kissed, and full of amazing sights. A simple dinner and an early night is probably what you’ll want, because, at the end of the day, you’ll have a lot of good memories to process.

Day 3: Choose Your Own Adventure

So for your third day, you have a few really good options. You could, for instance, do another island hopping tour, like Tour C, which is known for its incredible snorkeling spots like Matinloc Shrine and Hidden Beach. On the other hand, you could do something a little different. We think taking a break from the boat tours is actually a great idea. You could, for example, rent a motorbike and head north to Nacpan Beach. The ride itself is kind of an adventure, passing through small villages and green landscapes. Nacpan Beach is this huge, four-kilometer stretch of cream-colored sand, and it’s honestly one of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines. It’s much less crowded than the tour spots, so you can really find your own little piece of quiet there. There are a few small restaurants where you can get a simple lunch and just spend hours swimming and walking the shoreline. Basically, it feels like a totally different El Nido.

Alternatively, you could try something like a private tour. This is a bit more of an investment, but you know, it gives you complete freedom. You can tell your boat crew what you like—maybe more snorkeling, fewer crowded places, or just more time relaxing on a secluded beach. Seriously, you can combine spots from different tours or ask them to take you to some lesser-known spots. For example, you might want to visit Cadlao Lagoon, which is often overlooked but just as beautiful as the more famous lagoons. This way, you really get to create a day that’s perfect for you. At the end of the day, having that choice makes the trip feel more personal.

Day 4: One Last Morning in Paradise

On your final morning, you’ll probably feel a little sad to leave. We suggest you wake up a bit early to make the most of it. First, find a nice local spot for breakfast. I mean, a place that serves good Filipino coffee and maybe some silog, which is a traditional breakfast with garlic rice and egg. It’s honestly a delicious way to start the day. This is also your last chance to do some souvenir shopping. You’ll find lots of small shops selling pearl jewelry, woven bags, and other local handicrafts. Just be mindful and shop from local artisans if you can. Instead of rushing, you should just take a final, slow walk along the beach. You know, watch the boats getting ready for the day’s tours and just take a few final mental snapshots. It’s a slightly quiet and reflective time.

Then, of course, it’s time to head back. Whether you’re taking the van back to Puerto Princesa or a short tricycle ride to Lio Airport, give yourself plenty of time. You know, island time can be a little unpredictable. As you travel away from El Nido town, you’ll likely find yourself already planning your next visit. A four-day, three-night trip is, pretty much, a perfect introduction. It’s just enough time to fall in love with the place. To be honest, you’ll leave feeling refreshed and carrying a little piece of its serene beauty with you. And at the end of the day, that’s a pretty great takeaway from any short trip.

Read our full review: [El Nido 4 Days 3 Nights review 2025 Full Review and Details]
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