Expectation versus Reality Photo by Ehmir Bautista
Introduction to Kayaking in El Nido
El Nido’s 45 islands and islets are scattered all over Bacuit Bay. Some of these islands are as close as a half hour kayak ride from town or the beaches in Corong-Corong. This low-impact activity is great for all levels of kayakers, given the flat water during the summer season.
Once we get into rainy season and Amihan (north wind) season, water conditions will vary. Ask tour guides, locals, and travel agents about sea conditions before heading out. It’s likely you’ll be on and off your kayak so be sure to bring all the essentials: food, sunscreen, snorkels, lots of water, and any other gear you think you’ll need.
The routes below are the most common kayak trips taken in and around El Nido. This isn’t the most comprehensive as many kayak routes are likely in the east (Sibaltan area) and the north (San Fernando). If you’ve done any kayak trips not mentioned in this article feel free to shoot us a message and contribute! And as always keep safe!
Kayak in Cadlao Island
Kayaks are easily rented from town if you’re going to Cadlao Island. This large island comprises of 12 gorgeous beaches with tons of options to snorkel and peaks at 609 meters above sea level. An added treat is Cadlao Lagoon, which many locals claim as the most beautiful lagoon (and without the crowds of Small and Big Lagoons) in Bacuit Bay. You’re essentially doing Tour D on a budget and on your own time! Extension- add in an extra island an visit Bukal or Dimulacad Island
Cadlao Island- Photo by Joshua Berida
🏁Starts in El Nido
⏱ To Cadlao Lagoon allow about 1 hour, the first beach should take about 20-30 minutes from town.
⚠ If Tour C is cancelled, you will experience rough water on the western part of Cadlao which opens up to open sea.
Seven Commandos is the final destination of Tour A and can get crowded but mornings and earlier in the day it’s quieter. Adjacent sits Papaya Beach, our recommendation between the two. It’s an empty beach with a coconut stand and an option for overnight camping. Turtles abound in the area so bring snorkels. Rent kayaks from Maremegmeg Beach Bar or The Beach Shack.
🏁Start in El Nido town or Corong-Corong (closer)
⏱ From town it can take about 45 minutes to Seven Commandos, Papaya will be right after
⏱ From Corong-Corong it can take about 20-40 minutes depending on what part of Corong-Corong. You’ll hit Papaya Beach first and then Seven Commandoes
⏱ From Las Cabanas/Maremegmeg Beach it can take about 45-60 minutes to either beach
⚠ During the rainy season and Amihan it may be difficult to kayak from town. Between Cadlao Island and the mainland it will feel like a channel with a current
Kayaking in Miniloc Island
Big and Small Lagoon- During Tour A….. This is the easiest and most popular choice for kayaking. Tour A takes you two El Nido’s most crowded spots and you can expect a bit of boat and kayak traffic going in and out of Small Lagoon. Kayak rentals in each spot run 450 PHP for two-person kayaks.
Photo by: Terence Ver Angsioco of JaggedPerspective.com
🏁Done while on Tour A
⏱ 20-30 minute activity depending on how long you’d like to kayak.
⚠ Be careful of the kayak traffic going in and out of small lagoon. There are no other concerns here other than the sharp limestone (this is a general advisory for the tours)
This is one of Bacuit Bay’s most dramatic-looking islands and can be seen on Tour B. However, this spot deserves more time than a tour stop. Pack a lunch (no establishments exist there) and kayak to this island from the Las Cabanas/Maremegmeg Beach area. Great snorkeling, beautiful sunset views, less crowded, and white powder sand.
🏁Start from Las Cabanas/Maremegmeg Beach area
⏱ 45 minutes from Las Cabanas
⚠ During Amihan season this is a difficult route as between the mainland and the island feel like a channel with a current
