The limestone cliffs here make you stop talking fast. I love the private pace and the way the crew builds the day around your comfort, with guides like Julius and captains such as Cyron showing up in the best kind of hands-on way. I also love that the day includes real time in the water: kayaking at Big Lagoon plus snorkeling gear included. One thing to consider: your schedule can shift with weather, and one unlucky situation in a prior outing involved a late start and a rough moment on a kayak, so pay close attention to safety briefings and ask about timing if you’re traveling with kids.

You’re moving through El Nido’s best-known bays in a single, full 8-hour run. That makes the tour a smart value if you want variety without living on a boat all day. And because it’s a private group with a licensed boat, captain, and guide/crew, you should feel more “looked after” than on the big group chaos.

Quick hits on El Nido Private Island Hopping Tour A

• 7 Commandos Beach: white sand, turquoise water, and that World War II legend name
• Big Lagoon kayaking: a narrow entrance, towering limestone cliffs, and clear water you can actually see through
• Secret Lagoon access: it’s reached through a small hole in the limestone wall, which changes the whole mood
• Shimizu Island snorkeling: coral reef snorkeling with provided mask and snorkel
• Lunch plus drinks: buffet lunch, water, soft drinks, and fruits are part of the package
• One big reality check: lagoon entrance and environmental fees are not included

Private pace, real care: what this tour is like

This is the kind of El Nido day you can do without overthinking. You get picked up within El Nido Town and Corong-corong, then you’re out on a licensed tourist boat with a licensed captain and guide/crew. In plain terms, it’s structured, and it’s meant to feel organized, not random.

What really matters is the rhythm. You’ll have time for photos, guided stops, swimming breaks, and then snorkeling at the two reef-focused islands/beaches. On top of that, you get a free 1 kayak, which is a rare win in island-hopping tours that often charge extra for the paddling part.

The other big plus is that you’re not stuck on one scene all day. You’ll go from long white sand and calm swim water to lagoons framed by cliffs, then to reef snorkeling spots, then back to quieter shoreline time. That mix is why this tour tends to land well with couples and small groups who want variety.

Your 8-hour route: 7 Commandos → Big Lagoon → Shimizu → Secret Lagoon → Payong-Payong

The day is built around a set sequence of stops, but the lunch stop and sometimes exact timing can change with weather. That’s not a deal-breaker in El Nido; weather is part of the equation. What I’d do is set your expectations that the tour is flexible, but the core highlights stay in the plan.

Here’s what each part is really for.

7 Commandos Beach: swim-first white sand and easy photos

This is your first big “wow” moment. 7 Commandos Beach is known for powdery white sand, coconut trees along the edge, and limestone cliffs that frame the bay. The water is described as clear and turquoise, which is exactly what you want when you’re starting the day fresh.

You’ll get a photo stop, a guided visit, sightseeing, and about an hour to swim and relax. There are also rustic bars and small shops nearby, so if you want a cold drink or a snack without breaking the tour flow, it’s often there.

Practical tip: plan to get your swim in early. Once you move on, you rarely return to the same beach feel, and this stop is a great one for a quick reset.

Big Lagoon: the cliffs close in, and the water turns hypnotic

Big Lagoon is the centerpiece feel of Tour A. You enter through a narrow passage, then suddenly the lagoon opens like a natural amphitheater—limestone cliffs towering around you and the water showing a strong blue-green tint.

On the schedule, you’ll get photo stop, guided visit, sightseeing, swimming, and then kayaking with a free kayak. That’s your time to slow down and explore the lagoon’s quieter corners, not just float along the edge.

What to watch: kayaking here can feel different from ocean paddling. You’re moving in a confined area under cliffs, so it’s easier to get disoriented if you don’t follow the guide’s pacing. Wear your life vest snugly, keep your balance, and listen when they explain entry/exit.

Shimizu Island: snorkeling-focused water with lunch in the mix

Shimizu Island is named after a Japanese diver, and the main point is simple: it’s a snorkeling stop. The reefs around the island can be full of colorful fish, and the tour includes mask and snorkel so you’re not scrambling for gear.

You’ll also get break time plus lunch here. The tour description says the guide will choose the lunch stop, and Shimizu is one of the places where lunch can happen depending on the day’s plan and conditions. Either way, you’re typically getting a proper buffet meal during your reef time rather than eating back on shore.

What you get on the schedule: guided tour, free time, sightseeing, swimming, and snorkeling (about an hour total allocated). It’s not a slow day, but it’s paced so you can enjoy the reef without feeling rushed nonstop.

One caution: snorkeling quality can vary. In at least one account, snorkeling wasn’t as exciting as expected compared with other reef spots—so if reef is your top priority, don’t treat this as a guaranteed “best snorkeling ever” situation. Still, it’s a very reasonable use of time in El Nido.

Secret Lagoon: the limestone hole makes this feel special

Secret Lagoon is the stop where the day gets quieter and more cinematic. You access it through a small hole in a limestone wall, which means you’re not just walking into a pretty bay—you’re squeezing through a natural opening.

On the schedule: photo stop, guided tour, free time, sightseeing, swimming, plus scenic views on the way. That “on the way” part matters because you’re traveling through rock formations that frame the route, not just reaching one set location.

Practical tip: move carefully through the entry. The entrance is narrow by design, so slow down, keep your gear managed, and listen to the guide on how to pass through. This is a moment where good instructions can make it more comfortable and safer.

Payong-Payong Beach: quiet shoreline time and a second reef chance

Payong-Payong Beach is described as secluded and tranquil compared with the more famous crowd magnets. The sand is soft and the water is clear, which makes it a strong swimming break.

The schedule gives you a break, photo stop, guided visit, sightseeing, and swimming. Snorkeling is also part of this stop, plus scenic views on the way. It’s another chance to see fish and reef life, with the tour gear provided again.

If you like beaches where you can breathe—less sprinting, more settling in—this is the one. It’s also a nice place to recover if the day feels busy.

Kayaking in Big Lagoon: how to make it fun, not stressful

The free kayak is one of the most valuable inclusions because it turns the lagoon from a photo stop into an activity. Big Lagoon’s tight entrance and high cliffs are part of the thrill, and the clearness of the water helps you feel connected to what’s beneath you.

Here’s how to make the most of your kayak time:

• Keep your life vest comfortable from the start. Don’t leave it for the water.
• Take the guide’s instructions seriously at entry and exit. That’s where mistakes happen.
• If you’re traveling with kids or smaller paddlers, pick positions and hold on firmly. One past experience involved a kayak mishap where a child was injured, so it’s worth being extra cautious with balance and movement.

Kayaking here isn’t about speed. It’s about control and enjoying the enclosed lagoon feel. If you paddle like you’re trying to win a race, you’ll tire out faster and miss the best views.

Snorkeling at Shimizu and Payong-Payong: bring the right basics

This tour includes mask and snorkel, so you don’t need to rent gear separately. That alone makes the day easier. You also get guidance through each stop, which helps if you’re new to snorkeling.

Still, there are two realistic factors to plan for:

• Reef conditions and visibility can shift day to day.
• You get limited time at each water spot, so you’ll want to focus on efficient breathing and short swim loops rather than wandering for too long.

Practical tip: bring biodegradable sunscreen and keep it under control before you hit the water. Also use a waterproof bag so your phone isn’t living at risk of sand and spray. The tour specifically calls out no plastic bags, so use reusable fabric or proper waterproof containers.

If you get even one good reef moment at Shimizu and one calmer fish-filled look at Payong-Payong, the day feels worth it.

Lunch and drinks: why the buffet inclusion matters

A lot of island-hopping days fail at the food. Here, you’re getting a buffet lunch plus water and soft drinks, along with fruits. That’s not just comfort—it’s energy insurance.

In real terms, you’ll be in sun and water for hours. A filling lunch means you’re less likely to crash later at the final beach stop. And fruits help with that midday sugar + hydration rhythm that keeps you happy.

A nice detail: the tour guide chooses the lunch stop, and it can happen during the Shimizu portion depending on how the day is unfolding. So you’re not always waiting until the end, which keeps the pace from dragging.

Price and logistics: does $139 feel fair?

At $139 per person for 8 hours, this tour is priced like a serious “one-day highlights package.” The private group structure is the key value driver. You’re paying for fewer distractions and more direct attention from the guide and crew, plus included equipment (kayak, snorkeling gear, life vest).

Here’s what’s not included, and this is important:

• Lagoon entrance fee: 200 (government tax)
• Environmental fee: 400 (government tax)
• Drop off back to your hotel

That totals extra government taxes of 600, plus you’ll need to handle your own way back if the tour doesn’t include hotel drop-off. The pack list also says to bring cash, which is a strong clue you should have your fees ready on hand.

So the “true” budgeting mindset is:

1) Plan for the base $139.

2) Add the lagoon/environment fees (600).

3) Arrange your return transport separately.

For couples and families who want a structured day without negotiating everything on the fly, the pricing can make sense. If you’re traveling with a crew that’s happy to do your own transfers and hunt for deals, you might compare options—but if you want a guided, licensed, equipment-included day, this is a solid fit.

The crew and guides: why names matter for trust

What you remember from a tour isn’t the brochure. It’s how people handle you when conditions change.

In multiple experiences, the organization and attentiveness stood out. People referenced captain Cyron and guides like Julius and Leonard. The vibe described is that the crew helps with boarding, supports you around kayaks, and watches out for comfort and safety all day.

One detail I’d file under “smart bonus”: one guide (Julius) was noted for taking professional videos and photos during the Secret Lagoon moment and kayaking time. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything later, having someone actively capturing your day usually means you’re not stuck doing constant self-recording while you’re trying to enjoy the views.

The one negative experience in the data involved a late start that led to crowded conditions at the sites and an incident during kayak handling. That doesn’t automatically mean every day is like that, but it does mean you should treat safety seriously: ask questions early, confirm what the plan is for timing, and don’t hesitate to request extra help if you feel unsteady.

What to pack so the day feels easy

You’ll be in and out of the water, so pack like you’re expecting wet sand and sun. The tour requests:

• Change of clothes
• Towel
• Beachwear
• Closed-toe shoes
• Waterproof bag
• Waterproof shoes (if you have them)
• Camera
• Cash
• Biodegradable sunscreen

Also: bring something for your comfort on the move. The day’s total time is 8 hours, and there are several boat transitions plus walking at certain stops.

And keep it clean and simple: smoking, plastic bags, alcohol/drugs, and littering are not allowed. I’d also avoid bulky plastic that you might need to stow.

Who should book this tour A—and who might want to rethink it

This tour is a great match if you:

• Want multiple El Nido highlights in one day without planning each stop
• Like water time: swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking
• Prefer private-group service and a licensed crew
• Are traveling as a couple or small group who wants a calmer feel than the biggest boat crowds

It might be less ideal if:

• You’re chasing only the best snorkeling possible and want maximum time in reef zones.
• You’re traveling with very young kids who may struggle with kayaking balance, even with life vests and guidance.
• You strongly depend on a hotel drop-off at the end, because drop off back is not included.

If you fall into the first group, this tour is one of the more straightforward ways to experience El Nido’s signature bays.

Should you book El Nido Private Island Hopping Tour A?

If your goal is a full, highlights-packed 8-hour El Nido day—7 Commandos beach, Big Lagoon kayaking, Secret Lagoon through the limestone hole, plus snorkeling and a buffet meal—then yes, it’s worth strong consideration.

Just go in with two smart expectations:

1) Budget for the lagoon entrance and environmental fees (200 + 400) and have cash ready.

2) Respect safety and timing. If you want an early start, ask about your pickup and first departure timing so you don’t end up with crowded conditions at the popular spots.

Book this if you want variety and care, and you’re happy to let the guide handle the flow. With the right mindset, it’s the kind of day that turns El Nido from “photos online” into something you can actually feel.

FAQ

What’s the duration of El Nido Island Hopping Tour A?

It runs for 8 hours. Starting times depend on availability.

What’s included in the $139 per person price?

The tour includes free pickup within El Nido Town and Corong-corong, buffet lunch, water and soft drinks, fruits, free 1 kayak, life vest/jacket, mask and snorkel, and a licensed boat captain/guide/crew.

What fees are not included?

Lagoon entrance fee is 200 (government tax) and an environmental fee is 400 (government tax). Drop off back to your hotel is also not included, and additional kayak rental isn’t included.

Is this tour private?

Yes. It’s listed as a private group.

What languages is the guide?

The live tour guide provides English and Tagalog.

Is cancellation free?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.