Palawan is known to be a paradise to many and a dream trip for most. El Nido, specifically located at the northern part of Palawan and a 4-6 hour drive from Puerto Princesa, is known for a breathtaking view, lovely beaches and a dwelling place for many tourist.
I was just one of the many people that dreamt to set foot in this place. And I am truly blessed when my cousin been suddenly not available on the dates of the trip going to El Nido. I replaced her and packed my bag and ready to be overwhelmed!
Very early of December 1st 2013, I woke up very excited. Aside from the fact that I’ll be in Palawan any time at that day, it also happens to be my first experience to ride an airplane.
It was raining when we arrived at the Puerto Princesa Airport. I was praying hard that the rain will not hinder us with our planned tour to the place. We were told that we have another 4-5 hour van ride going to El Nido. As they say, nothing great comes easy.
We have arrived at the El Nido Proper late afternoon and directly went to Anang Balay Turist. Our accommodation was arranged months ahead. Our boat trip was arranged by Anang Balay and also includes our food, snorkeling gear, life vest and guides for the tour.
My sister and I walked around the area as we were informed that our tour will start the next day. We have tons of time to rest that day.
The shore near our inn
Souvenir Shop
The church at the town
The next morning, we started our day by taking a heavy breakfast.
The boat cannot go as near to the shore as there were rocks that may damage the boat. So you need to ride a kayak going to the boat.
Our first stop was in Helicopter Island. The island looks like a helicopter if you see it from afar.
Helicopter Island
It was low tide when we went to the Hidden Beach. So we just walked through the low water and explore the hidden beach through the huge rocks.
Hidden Beach
Exit to the Hidden Beach
As it was almost lunch time, we head our way to Matinloc Shrine. Our guides prepared our food while we are exploring the place.
Our Kind boatmen/guides preparing our lunch
The foods prepared by our chefs/guides!
Matinloc Shrine
Standing at the limestone cliff viewing the nearby islands
At the peak of Matinloc Shrine
As to my most favorite of the day, we went to the Secret Beach. Yes, the Hidden and Secret Beach are two different place. I supposed that they called it that way because you will not be thinking of a beach somewhere in the middle of the ocean. Needing to pass a small hole and walk through the uneven path going to the white sand of this place.
You need to swim and go through the small hole to see the Secret Beach
Amazing rock formation inside the Secret Beach
Secret Beach
Our last destination for the day was at the Star Beach. Why did they call it that way? It is because there are lots of Star fishes near the shore. I have discovered that not just the star fishes exist in this place but even Sea Urchins and Territorial Fishes. Haha Good thing that I was wearing water shoes to protect my feet against their bites.
Star Beach
The next day, the first stop was in Pinagbuyutan Island. Our guides said that the place was the usual hidden beach for couples. They also said that this is the place for honeymooners.
Pinagbuyutan Island
I was a bit disappointed that there is no activity to be done in this spot. Cathedral Cave is only for picture taking.
My sister posing in front of the Cathedral Cave
Our third destination for that day was at Cudugnon Cave. In this place, there is just a minimal technical way of going inside. There is a small hole to get inside of the cave. This wasn’t really the kind of cave for cavers or spelunkers. It is a big cave where people can stand. There also awesome rock formations inside.
Cudugnon Cave
We had our lunch at Snake Island or also called as Vigan Island which I may consider as one of my favorites. This island will offer a very short trekking to have an overlooking of the sand bar aside from the swimming activities to the beach.
Sand bar during low tide in Snake Island
Overlooking of Snake Island
The trail going to the top of Snake Island
Clear water at the Sandbar of Snake Island
We were supposed to wrap our day at the Entalula Island but because of the unpredictable waves of the water, our guides decided to take us to 7 Commandos Beach instead.
My Sister and I
7 Commandos Beach
We have immediately returned to the proper to pack our things. We have decided to get back to Puerto Princesa that same day to make sure not to be late to our flight the next morning.
We have stayed in Pinoy Big Brother Inn which is 10-15 minutes away from Puerto Princesa Airport.
Our last day in Palawan. 😦
I wanted to thank the staff of Anang Balay and the boatmen for taking good care of us. We had a very relaxing trip to this place. This is one of my enchanting and captivating trip I’ve done and I can’t get enough. The water, the shore, the rocks, the species under the sea and the people will make you want to go back to this place. No wonder that El Nido is considered by many to be their paradise. It is indeed one.
FYI’s
- It is best if you bring your waterproof camera for photos as the usual view will be taken during water activities.
- Make sure to bring extra SD card too.
- Kayaks are available for rental for the whole day for P200/day
- For every tour, they serve generous amount of food as your lunch.
- There are no ATM nor banks. Make sure that you have planned your cash spending at the place. The only place that you can make cash withdrawals is at Puerto Princesa, which means 4-5 hour drive from El Nido.
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Joey in Wanderland 