One of the best ways to explore the dramatic limestone cliffs, white sand beaches, and hidden coves of El Nido town in Palawan island is by joining island hopping Tour C. This activity features some of the most awe-inspiring and remote attractions in the area, including Hidden Beach, Secret Beach, Matinloc Shrine, and Helicopter Island, making it a must for travelers looking for adventure and stunning scenery.
El Nido town is one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines, known for its crystal-clear waters, towering limestone formations, and vibrant marine life. Island hopping in El Nido town is the best way to experience these natural wonders, with four main tours—A, B, C, and D—each offering a unique set of stops and activities.
Tour A is the most popular, taking visitors to iconic lagoons like Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon. Tour B explores enchanting caves and secluded coves, while Tour D focuses on tranquil beaches. Tour C, however, stands out for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path adventure with snorkeling and sightseeing at breathtaking, less-crowded spots.
In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about Tour C—from its top attractions and what to expect during the experience, to the best time to go and what to bring—so you can make the most of your El Nido island hopping adventure.
Key Takeaways
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El Nido Tour C is one of the top-rated island hopping experiences in Palawan, featuring dramatic limestone cliffs, remote beaches, and snorkeling spots in the town.
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Highlights of Tour C include Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Talisay Beach, and Helicopter Island—ideal for travelers looking for off-the-beaten-path adventures.
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You can choose between shared, private, or luxury boat tours depending on your budget and travel style. Vacation packages also include Tour C alongside accommodations and transfers.
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Tour C typically lasts 6–8 hours, with each stop offering 45 minutes to an hour for swimming, snorkeling, or sightseeing. Packed lunches are served picnic-style at designated beach stops.
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The tour is best taken during the dry season (November to May), as weather may affect sea conditions and cause cancellations during the rainy months.
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Tour C is a great complement to Tour A for those staying longer in El Nido, offering a more remote and adventurous look at the town’s island treasures.
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Essentials to bring include reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, a dry bag, a waterproof phone pouch, and snorkeling gear. Aqua shoes and reusable water bottles are also recommended.
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To ensure safety and convenience, book with DOT-accredited operators like Guide to the Philippines, which offer licensed guides, hotel pick-up, and safety gear.
How to Book an El Nido Island Hopping Tour C
Booking El Nido Island Hopping Tour C is a great way to explore some of the most scenic and secluded spots in El Nido town on Palawan island. Whether you're drawn to its remote beaches, vibrant snorkeling spots, or dramatic limestone landscapes, securing your slot in advance ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience.
You can pre-book Tour C online through accredited travel operators like Guide to the Philippines, which offers convenient island hopping packages with hotel pick-up, lunch, and a licensed tour guide included. This is ideal for travelers who want peace of mind before arriving in town, especially during peak season when slots sell out quickly.
Alternatively, you may also find local guides or vendors offering Tour C around town, or book through your hotel. However, to avoid travel scams and ensure safety, it’s best to go with DOT-accredited providers who follow safety and environmental protocols.
To help you choose the best option for your travel style and group size, here are the experiences available:
Shared/Joiner El Nido Island Hopping Tour C
Joining a shared Tour C is a budget-friendly way to experience El Nido’s most iconic remote beaches. It’s perfect for solo travelers or small groups who want to enjoy a full-day tour that includes hotel transfers, a local guide, and lunch on the beach, all while meeting fellow adventurers.
Private El Nido Island Hopping Tour C
If you prefer a more exclusive and flexible experience, a private Tour C lets you explore the islands at your own pace. This is ideal for families, couples, or friends traveling in a group who want privacy, personalized service, and the option to customize their stops.
El Nido Luxury Boat Tours
For a premium experience, book a private El Nido luxury yacht or speedboat tour, which often includes Tour C stops like Hidden Beach and Matinloc Shrine. These deluxe tours offer upscale amenities, onboard dining, and enhanced comfort for those looking to explore Bacuit Bay in style.
El Nido Vacation Packages with Tour C
If you want everything taken care of—from tours to transfers and hotel stays—look into El Nido vacation packages that include Tour C. Some packages even combine stays in El Nido with other top Palawan island destinations like Coron town or Puerto Princesa City, making them perfect for multi-destination itineraries.
No matter which option you choose, Tour C is a must for travelers seeking adventure, snorkel spots, and breathtaking views of El Nido town’s hidden side. It’s the perfect complement to Tour A for those with more than one day to explore the islands of Palawan.
El Nido Island Hopping Tour C Itinerary & Attractions
El Nido Island Hopping Tour C offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience compared to the other tours in the area. It highlights remote beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs, and hidden coves, making it perfect for adventurous travelers looking to explore the wilder side of Palawan island.
Since 2023, lunch on island hopping tours in El Nido has shifted from traditional buffet or boodle-style meals to packed lunches prepared in town. These are typically enjoyed picnic-style at one of the beach stops. The tour usually starts around 8:00 AM and runs for about 6 to 8 hours, depending on the weather and sea conditions.
Here’s a closer look at each stop on Tour C—and why it’s the second most popular El Nido island hopping route:
Secret Beach
Tucked behind a jagged limestone wall on Matinloc Island, Secret Beach is one of the most elusive and stunning attractions in El Nido town. This pocket of paradise is accessible only by swimming through a small opening in the cliffs that’s barely visible from the boat—like entering through a keyhole.
Interesting Fact: You won’t see the actual beach from your boat; you’ll need to jump into the sea and swim through a crevice to find it, revealing a hidden cove with powdery sand, turquoise waters, and coral reefs.
What to do: Swim into the cove, snorkel to spot colorful marine life, and relax on the small beach surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.
Hidden Beach
Located on Tapiutan Island, Hidden Beach lives up to its name. Shielded from view by sharp karst formations, this gem was ranked the third best beach in the world in the 2023 World's 50 Best Beaches list by Banana Boat.
Interesting Fact: This beach is only accessible by boat and a short swim through a narrow opening. It's often compared to a natural lagoon thanks to its calm, shallow waters and serene atmosphere.
What to do: Wade or swim through the passage, snorkel in the crystal-clear water, and enjoy the peaceful scenery away from the crowds.
Matinloc Shrine
A unique mix of history and scenery, Matinloc Shrine is a spiritual site perched on a cliffside on Matinloc Island. It’s one of the few cultural stops in any El Nido island hopping tour.
Interesting Fact: The abandoned shrine was once part of a Catholic religious complex. Today, its main draw is a short climb up the limestone rocks that rewards you with a stunning panoramic view of Bacuit Bay.
What to do: Explore the remnants of the shrine, take photos of the epic coastal views, and snorkel off the nearby shore.
Talisay Beach
Talisay Beach is a quiet, less-commercialized beach stop often used as the lunch site for Tour C. Set on Tapiutan Island, this beach features a long stretch of powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and shady trees.
Interesting Fact: Although more low-key than other beaches, it’s a great snorkeling spot, with coral gardens just a few meters from shore.
What to do: Enjoy your packed lunch under the trees, snorkel to spot tropical fish like parrotfish and clownfish, or take a leisurely swim.
Helicopter Island
Officially named Dilumacad Island, this stop is nicknamed “Helicopter Island” because of its shape when seen from afar. Its long beach, steep cliffs, and coral reefs make it one of the most photogenic and versatile stops in El Nido town.
Interesting Fact: The island is a nesting ground for marine birds and sea turtles, and is often one of the first or last stops on the Tour C itinerary.
What to do: Swim, snorkel along the coral reefs, sunbathe on the creamy sand, and take landscape photos with the island’s distinctive silhouette.
El Nido Island Hopping Tips
Exploring the hidden beaches and limestone wonders of El Nido town is one of the most unforgettable experiences on Palawan Island. Whether you're joining a shared or private island hopping tour, these essential tips will help you stay safe, prepared, and ready to make the most of your Tour C adventure.
What to Bring
Pack light but come prepared. For a comfortable day at sea, bring the following essentials:
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Reef-safe sunscreen – to protect your skin and marine life
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Towel and extra clothes – for drying off and changing after the tour
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Reusable water bottle – to stay hydrated
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Aqua shoes – helpful when walking on rocky areas or entering lagoons
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Dry bag – for storing valuables like your phone, wallet, or camera
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Waterproof phone pouch – if you plan to take photos while swimming
Optional but useful items include sunglasses, hats, and light snacks. Some island stops have no shade or shops, so it's best to be self-sufficient.
Life Vests & Safety
All accredited boats provide life vests, which are mandatory while sailing. Your guide will also give a quick safety briefing before departure. Make sure to wear your vest, especially when waters are rough or when jumping off the boat into the sea.
Snorkeling Gear
Snorkeling is a key activity during Tour C, especially at Secret Beach and Talisay Beach.
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Check your tour package ahead of time to confirm whether masks and snorkels are included.
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On shared tours, gear may be rented for an additional fee and is usually sanitized between uses.
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Bringing your own gear is recommended for a better fit and personal hygiene.
Kayak Rentals
Some El Nido island hopping packages offer kayak rentals as add-ons, especially at calm snorkeling sites like Hidden Beach.
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Ask your tour operator in advance if kayaks are available and included.
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You can also rent a kayak onsite during your island stop, if permitted. Paddling through the crystal-clear waters of El Nido adds a unique perspective to your tour experience.
How Long Is Each Stop?
Each destination on Tour C typically allows around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on weather, sea conditions, and how many other groups are visiting.
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On shared tours, the itinerary follows a set schedule, so keep track of time at each stop.
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If you prefer more flexibility or longer stays at specific sites, a private tour is your best option.
Weather & Tour Cancellations
Island hopping tours in El Nido Town are weather-dependent. From June to October, the rainy season may cause rough seas, and the Philippine Coast Guard may cancel or postpone tours for safety.
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Always check the forecast before your scheduled tour.
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Confirm your tour operator’s cancellation or refund policy in case of weather disruptions.
Environmental Responsibility
El Nido town’s islands are protected by local and national environmental regulations. Help preserve their beauty by being a responsible traveler:
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Bring back any trash you generate
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Never step on corals or feed marine life
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Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the ocean
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Don’t take shells, sand, or marine animals as souvenirs
Frequently Asked Questions About El Nido Island Hopping Tour C
What is included in El Nido Tour C?
El Nido Tour C typically includes visits to five scenic spots: Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Talisay Beach, and Helicopter Island. The tour package often comes with hotel pick-up, a licensed tour guide, life vests, a packed lunch, and optional snorkeling gear depending on the provider.
How long does El Nido Tour C last?
Tour C usually starts around 8:00 AM and runs for 6 to 8 hours. Each stop lasts about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on sea conditions and the number of tour groups in the area.
Can I choose between shared or private Tour C experiences?
Yes. Shared tours are great for budget-conscious travelers or solo explorers who want to join others. Private tours offer more flexibility, privacy, and personalized itineraries—ideal for families, couples, or groups. Luxury boats and vacation packages are also available.
Is snorkeling gear included in El Nido Tour C?
Some tour operators include snorkeling gear, while others charge a rental fee. It’s best to confirm with your provider before the trip. Bringing your own mask and snorkel is recommended for comfort and hygiene.
When is the best time to join Tour C in El Nido?
The best time to join Tour C is during the dry season, from November to May, when sea conditions are calmer and visibility is ideal for snorkeling. During the rainy season (June to October), tours may be canceled or postponed due to safety concerns.
What should I bring for the island hopping tour?
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, extra clothes, a dry bag, a waterproof phone pouch, aqua shoes, and a reusable water bottle. Light snacks, hats, and sunglasses can also make your tour more comfortable.
Can cruise passengers join El Nido island hopping tours like Tour C?
Some cruise ships dock in El Nido Town so travelers can book shore excursions that include island hopping like Tour C as part of their extended itinerary.
Are there vacation packages that include El Nido Tour C?
Yes. You can book El Nido vacation packages through trusted operators like Guide to the Philippines, which bundle Tour C with accommodations, transfers, and even multi-day trips to other destinations like Coron and Puerto Princesa City.
How do I get to El Nido for the tour?
You can fly directly to El Nido Town via Lio Airport or fly into Puerto Princesa City and take a 5–6 hour land transfer. Many tour packages offer airport pickup and land transfers for added convenience.
Spend a Day Discovering El Nido’s Hidden Gems with Island Hopping Tour C
Island hopping is one of the top experiences in El Nido town on Palawan island, and El Nido Tour C is the perfect choice for uncovering its more secluded and breathtaking attractions. From swimming through narrow limestone passages to snorkeling vibrant coral reefs and visiting the cliffside Matinloc Shrine, Tour C offers a full-day escape into El Nido’s wilder side.
For a hassle-free trip, you can book Palawan tour packages that already include island hopping tours, El Nido hotels, airport transfers, and even multi-day itineraries covering other destinations like Coron Town and Puerto Princesa City.
You can reach the town via direct flights to El Nido or by taking flights to Puerto Princesa City, followed by a scenic land transfer. Once you’re in town, a wide selection of Palawan tours is available to help you explore more of the island’s natural wonders.
Book your Tour C experience today and discover why El Nido Town in Palawan continues to rank among the best island destinations in the world.
