El Nido is the gateway to incredible island tours around Palawan, but with so many options, it can be overwhelming to find the best and most budget-friendly tour operator. To find the tour that suits you best, check out the El Nido Paradise website—it has a great breakdown of all the stops!

We booked all our tours with The COUCH El Nido and we couldn’t recommend them more. Bryan and his team were friendly, accommodating, hilarious, and super affordable—making the experience even more memorable!

El Nido offers a wide variety of dining options, from cafes and bars to restaurants, gelato shops, and local eateries.

For a relaxing sunset meal and drinks, head to any of the sunset bars around Las Cabañas Beach. Sunset at Las Cabañas is a great choice for Mexican food and cocktails, but it’s on the pricier side and gets very busy—so arrive early to grab a table!

Other great spots include J83 Lounge, which offers good meals and cold beer, plus a range of daily specials.

If you’re looking for a cheaper, quieter alternative, check out Piggy’s Sunset Bar on Corong Corong Beach for a more laid-back vibe.

Getting around El Nido is easiest by hiring a motorbike or scooter, but if you’re new to riding, it’s best to practice on quieter streets in Palawan before venturing onto the main roads—it can be challenging and overwhelming at first.

If scooters aren’t your thing, you’ll be relying on tricycles for transport. Luckily, locals are always available at major hotspots—outside hotels, the airport, and tourist areas—ready to pick you up. Always negotiate your fare beforehand to avoid overpaying, as some drivers may try to overcharge tourists. TIP: You can ask to add a local tricycle driver on WhatsApp, and arrange for them to collect you in advance.

In El Nido, like most of the Philippines, cash is KING! Very few places accept card, so it’s essential to carry cash at all times. The best way to get Philippine Pesos (PHP) is by withdrawing from a reputable ATM, but only carry small amounts with you for safety.

For mobile data, local SIM cards with various plans are available at the airport and select local stores. Alternatively, you can opt for an eSIM through providers like Airalo which offers affordable regional plans—a great option for staying connected hassle-free!