El Nido Beaches in Palawan
Part of the Palawan travel guide — see every topic in All Palawan Guides.
You do not need a boat to find a good beach in El Nido. Several long, quiet beaches are a short ride from town by tricycle, van or scooter. Some are best for swimming, some for sunsets and some for a full lazy day. This guide covers the main beaches you can reach by road, plus tips on getting there and staying safe.
Nacpan Beach
Nacpan is a long, curving beach of soft golden sand about 45 minutes to an hour north of El Nido town by road. It is often named one of the best beaches in the Philippines. Coconut palms line the shore, and the beach is so long that it rarely feels crowded. Next to it is Calitang Beach, and from a small hill between the two you can see both bays at once. There are a few simple restaurants and places to stay. The sea can have waves and currents, so swim carefully and stay close to the shore.
Las Cabanas and Marimegmeg
Las Cabanas, also called Marimegmeg, is a few kilometres south of town. It faces west across Bacuit Bay and is the most popular place in El Nido to watch the sunset. There are beach bars, restaurants and a few small resorts along the sand. A zipline runs from a hill to a small island just offshore, which is a fun and quick way to see the bay from above. The beach is easy to reach by tricycle. It gets busy in the late afternoon, so arrive a little early to find a good spot.
Corong-Corong
Corong-Corong is the beach area just south of El Nido town, on the way to Las Cabanas. It has a long stretch of sand with views of the islands, and many hotels, guesthouses and restaurants. The water is shallow, so it is better for walking and sunsets than for swimming at low tide. Many island-hopping boats can pick you up here instead of from the main town beach. Corong-Corong is quieter than the town centre but still close to shops and bars. It is a good base for a first visit.
Duli and the quieter north
North of Nacpan, the road continues to quieter beaches such as Duli Beach. Duli faces the open sea and has waves that are popular for surfing in the windy months, usually from about October to March. There is very little here except a few small places to stay and eat. The road can be rough, especially after rain. If you rent a scooter, ride slowly and carry water and cash. These beaches are good for travellers who want space and silence more than nightlife.
Getting to the beaches
Tricycles are the main local transport in El Nido. Agree on the price before you get in, and ask if the driver will wait or come back. For Nacpan, shared vans run from town in the morning and return in the afternoon. Many visitors rent a scooter for the day, but only do this if you have experience, as roads can be narrow and busy. Carry cash, since card payment is not common outside town. Bring your rubbish back with you, because small beaches have little or no waste collection.
El Nido Beaches at a glance
| Getting there | Tricycle, shared van or scooter from El Nido town |
|---|---|
| Hours | Beaches are open all day; most beach bars close by late evening |
| Cost | Free beach access in most places; some areas charge a small fee |
| Best time | December to May for sunny weather; late afternoon for sunsets at Las Cabanas |
| Tip | Agree on tricycle prices before the ride |