9 El Nido Palawan Alternatives in the Philippines: Underrated and Hidden Beaches to Avoid Crowds

El Nido is a destination known globally that has consistently been featured in lists of the world's best beaches and island destinations. One example is Hidden Beach, one of the best beaches in El Nido. Banana Boat, a sun care brand and pharmaceutical company, named it the third-best beach in the world in “The World's 50 Best Beaches” list in 2023. However, due to its worldwide popularity, El Nido can experience an influx of tourists, especially during summer and peak travel seasons in the Philippines, from April to June. 

If you love El Nido but want to avoid the crowds and explore more places, the Philippines has many other beautiful destinations that are waiting to be visited. Here are some destinations to add to your travel bucket list for more island adventures and hidden beaches in the Philippines, like El Nido, Palawan.

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1. Coron, Palawan

Just a short distance from El Nido, Coron is located in the northern part of Palawan. Coron is much like El Nido, and it offers a wide range of unique attractions and fun activities that make it a top destination. It is known for its World War II wreck diving sites, dramatic limestone cliffs, and vibrant marine life. You can also enjoy Coron island-hopping, diving, and snorkeling.

Like in El Nido, island-hopping in Coron is the best way to explore its breathtaking beauty. Popular Coron tours include visits to Kayangan Lake, the cleanest lake in the Philippines, and the Twin Lagoon, where you can swim in crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering limestone formations. 

Coron's beaches and islands, such as Malcapuya Island and Banana Island, offer powdery white sand and turquoise waters, perfect for relaxing and snorkeling. Other than beaches, you can also visit Maquinit Hot Springs for a relaxing experience of naturally heated saltwater pools or hike up Mount Tapyas for the perfect panoramic view of Coron and its surrounding islands.

Check out this article on Coron vs El Nido for a more detailed comparison between these two top destinations for your Palawan itinerary.

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2. Islas de Gigantes, Iloilo

Islas de Gigantes is an enchanting group of islands located off the coast of Carles in Iloilo province. This island is one of the well-known Iloilo tourist spots, featuring pristine beaches and rock formations, similar to those in El Nido. This underrated tourist spot in the Philippines offers an unspoiled alternative to the more famous El Nido, making it a must-visit spot for those who want to avoid the crowds.

The best way to explore this beautiful island is through Islas de Gigantes tours. Island-hopping in Islas de Gigantes will take you to popular tourist spots like Cabugao Gamay, known for its picturesque sandbar and iconic rock formations; Antonia Beach, ideal for snorkeling; and Bantigue Sandbar, which features a long stretch of white sand that emerges during low tide.

The two main islands of Islas de Gigantes, Gigantes Norte, and Gigantes Sur, offer more than just beaches. You can explore local fishing villages, enjoy fresh seafood like scallops, and visit the historic lighthouse in Gigantes Norte. You can also visit other tourist spots to include in your trip or book Iloilo tours for convenience.

3. Balabac, Palawan

Another must-visit destination in Palawan is Balabac. It is located at the southernmost tip of Palawan. This off-the-beaten-path destination is known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, which offer a serene escape from the more crowded tourist destinations like El Nido. 

Similar to El Nido, you can join Palawan island-hopping tours to explore its islands, such as Onok Island, Candaraman Island, and Patawan Island. You can relax under the trees, snorkel underwater, or swim in its clear waters. You can book a 4-day Balabac vacation package to enjoy all these activities and beautiful tourist spots hassle-free. Aside from its stunning islands, you can also visit the historic lighthouse on Balabac Island, Cape Melville Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding seas and islands. 

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4. Dinagat Islands

Dinagat Islands may not be as popular as other tourist destinations in the Philippines, but it should be on your radar if you want to visit unspoiled islands and beaches. Like El Nido, Dinagat Islands is home to pristine islands, palm tree-lined beaches, stunning rock formations, serene lagoons, and majestic caves.

Although it’s not as easily accessible as other tourist spots in Mindanao, it’s worth the trip as you will enjoy spectacular natural attractions without the crowds. Some of the must-visit attractions in Dinagat Islands are Lake Bababu, a meromictic lake with saltwater and freshwater layers; Bitaog Beach, an unspoiled beach with white sand and turquoise waters; and Pagkawasan Beach, where you can enjoy fine sand on your toes and a meal at the nearby resort.

Similar to El Nido, Dinagat Islands can be explored via island-hopping tours. Booking Dinagat Island tours will allow you to visit several attractions in the province hassle-free.

5. Caramoan, Camarines Sur

Caramoan, located in Camarines Sur in the Bicol Region, is a destination known for its numerous powdery beaches, caves, and limestone cliffs similar to those in El Nido but less crowded. Caramoan Island is one of the best Bicol tourist spots to visit in the Philippines. It is also perfect for island-hopping, with over ten islands just off the north and east shore of the peninsula. 

There are many tourist spots that you should visit in Caramoan when you're joining Bicol tours or an island-hopping adventure. You can visit Matukad Island, known for its powdery white sand, clear waters, and hidden lagoon, and then visit Hunongan Cove, a secluded beach with calm waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing.

Since Caramoan is also known for its limestone cliffs and caves, you can also go caving and rock climbing. The challenging climbs and spelunking adventures are perfect for thrill-seekers. 

6. Siquijor

Siquijor is an island province in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. It is often referred to as the "Island of Fire" due to its historical association with mystical traditions and healing practices. Siquijor offers a unique and serene alternative to the more well-known El Nido, and is famous for its mystical charm, pristine beaches, and lush landscapes. 

What makes it different from El Nido is that Siquijor itself is a single island, and island-hopping tours are not a popular activity unless you are going to visit nearby islands like Apo Island or other tourist spots in Dumaguete. But Siquijor's beaches are less crowded, featuring clear blue waters and powdery white sand. Some tours in Siquijor will take you to popular beaches including Salagdoong Beach, Paliton Beach, and Tubod Beach. 

Siquijor not only boasts beaches but is also popular for caves and waterfalls. Cambugahay Falls, one of the best Siquijor tourist spots, featuring a series of cascading waterfalls with turquoise pools. For caving and trekking, you can go spelunking through a limestone cave with impressive formations in Cantabon Cave.

7. Port Barton, Palawan

Port Barton offers a serene and unspoiled alternative to El Nido, with equally beautiful natural attractions but fewer tourists. It is located in San Vicente, on the northwestern coast of Palawan. It is known for its beaches and relaxed atmosphere. It is one of the most popular tourist spots in San Vicente that you shouldn’t miss in Palawan.

Island-hopping is a must-try activity in Port Barton to explore its beautiful tourist attractions, . You'll find different San Vicente tours, from Tour A, Tour B, Tour C, and Tour D, that will take you to reefs, islands, and falls. 

One popular attraction is the Twin Reefs, which is known for its rich coral gardens and is a top snorkeling spot. Bigaho Waterfalls is also known in Port Barton. It is a waterfall that can be reached by boat and a short trek, ideal for a refreshing dip in nature. The area around Port Barton also features extensive mangrove forests, providing opportunities for eco-tours and wildlife spotting. 

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8. Romblon 

Romblon is an archipelagic province located in the heart of the Philippines, between Luzon and the Visayan Islands. It is known as the "Marble Capital of the Philippines" because of the island's high-quality marble, which is mined and crafted into various products. Romblon offers stunning tourist attractions, with natural beauty and pristine beaches that are less crowded, making it an ideal destination for those looking for an El Nido, Palawan alternative.

Romblon is perfect for island-hopping, with numerous beautiful islands and beaches to explore. Some popular Romblon tourist spots are Cresta de Gallo and Sibuyan Island. Aside from these islands, Romblon also boasts some must-visit beautiful and less crowded beaches you can visit on Romblon tours, like Bonbon Beach, Tiamban Beach, and Margie's Beach. For adventure seekers, you can also explore Romblon's caves and rock formations of Tinagong Dagat or discover Libtong Falls and Inuquit Falls.

9. Bantayan Island, Cebu

Bantayan Island is located off the northern coast of Cebu, which is perfect for those who want to avoid crowded places. While Bantayan Island may not have the towering limestone cliffs of El Nido, it is generally less crowded, and it boasts equally stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Bantayan Island features some popular tourist attractions to explore, such as several islands, lagoons, and beaches like Virgin Island, Hilantagaan Island, and Baigad Lagoon, which are accessible through island-hopping tours and are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Top beaches in Cebu like Kota Beach Sandbar and Paradise Beach are also some must-visit attractions in Bantayan Island.

Beyond islands and beaches, you can also visit other Bantayan Island tourist spots like Ogtong Cave, a natural cave with a freshwater pool inside, offering a unique swimming experience in a cool, underground setting. The main tourist area on Bantayan Island, Santa Fe town, is known for its local markets and vibrant nightlife with beachfront bars and restaurants that you can visit.

Discover the best places like El Nido in the Philippines

While El Nido remains a top destination known for its breathtaking beauty and island adventures, it's worth exploring other destinations in the Philippines that offer similar charms and experiences. From the tranquil shores of Bantayan Island to the mystical allure of Siquijor, each destination presents its unique natural wonders and experiences. 

These 8 destinations, much like El Nido, offer captivating scenery, adventure-filled activities, and a chance to explore the natural beauty of the Philippines. Whether you're seeking pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, or tranquil escapes, the Philippines offers a number of El Nido alternatives waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers.