El Nido in Palawan is one of the most diverse ecosystems in the country therefore protected by the major institutions in the Philippines. Its unique attractions and hidden adventures will make you come back and travel there all over again. Being a unique Philippines destination, El Nido is renowned for its towering limestone cliffs which are inhabited by the swiflets, a kind of bird that lives in caves with the ability to navigate in total darkness. Their nests are entirely built with their saliva, which is used as a main ingredient for the famous Chinese delicacy, Bird’s nest soup. These nests are being sold for approximately US$ 3,000 per kilogram.
Cadlao Island is the largest island in El Nido allocating a land area of 10.06 km2. It is the closest island to the town proper and has the highest peak soaring up to 640 meters above sea level. It is recognized for its white sand beaches, hidden lagoons and nature trails good for trekking experience toward its lush thick forest. One of its nature trails leads to the saltwater of Makaamo Lagoon. This Lagoon is surrounded by Mangroves where different kinds of birds can be seen. Beaches in Cadlao are Bocal Point, Natnat and Paradise Beach which is located at the Southern part while Sabang Beach in the North.
Also called as the Helicopter Island, Dilumacad Island’s limestone cliffs resembles like that of a helicopter when it is viewed from a distance. It has beautiful 300 meters white sand which is a best place for lunch picnic and island hopping. There is also an underwater tunnel to its northern end and fringing reefs on the south.
El Nido Resorts are composed of the Miniloc Island Resort and Lagen Island Resort. These are world-renowned island resorts known for the impeccable service and magnificent views.
Miniloc Island is where the first resort in El Nido was built. It first started as a diving station for Japanese and European tourists. The Big and Small Lagoons can be found there which scientists believed were caves that eventually became a lagoon because of the collision of the said caves. The Miniloc Island Resort is situated at the coastal village with the background of vertical limestone cliffs giving it an extra-ordinary scenery.
Lagen Island is where the Leta-Leta Cave, burial site of the Late Neolithic Age can be found. Important collections of stone, adzes, axes, shell beads and shell artifacts had been recovered here by Dr. Robert Fox in 1965 giving way to the discovery of its archeological contribution to the country. Lagen Island Resort is the sister resort of Miniloc Island Resort which are both managed by Ten Knots Development Corporation.
Pangalusian Island’s wide stretches of powdery white sand is very ideal in beach activities. Some of those are sun bathing, sunset viewing and many more. Its front waters are clustered with various coral reefs making it ideal for snorkeling and diving activities as well. It also has a trail to its middle where forest activities like bird-watching can be done. The trail ends at the highest peak of the island where Bacuit Island can be viewed at its most perspective scene and also the other nearby islands.
Cudugnon Point, like the Lagen Island, has an important contribution in archeological science. This is where jewelry and some potteries dating back to the Sung Dynasty (960-1279 BC) were found. Anthropologists believed that the inhabitants of the cave were from Borneo who travelled across the bridge that connected Palawan and Borneo. The roofs of the caves are inhabited by insectivorous bats.
Matinloc Island is the longest thin island in El Nido. It has a secret beach of which is not accessible by boats because it is surrounded by sheer rock walls. You have to dive and swim underwater where there is the only way to pass through it like swimming inside a cave. It is also famous for the Kulasa Beach stretching a hundred meters of fine white sand. There are four dive sites in the island where the deepest one is about 39 meters deep, located at the South.
Ille Cave was one of the ancient homes of the early people in El Nido dating 12,000 years ago. Archeologists found human fossils, potteries and traces of an 8,000 year old cremation inside. It is frequently visited by tourists because of its archeological importance. Located at New Ibajay, it is a 45-minute drive from the town center.
Entalula Island is a perfect example of a tropical island because of its fine white sand lined with palm trees on the side. It is a good place for picnics, swimming or just for pure relaxation. Recently, it is turned into a rock climbing site so you can never get bored if you want a more adventurous activity.