Photo by Maremegmeg Beach Club
El Nido in Palawan has been repeatedly hailed as one of the Best Islands in the World. As a top destination in the Philippines, El Nido is known for its white-sand unspoiled beaches, spectacular limestone formations, stunning landscape, and other stunning tourist spots and fun activities.
This Palawan destination is frequented by domestic and international tourists and has earned international acclaim as a must-visit destination for holiday seekers. Whether you’re looking for a laidback beach escapade or an adventure-filled island-hopping adventure, you can never go wrong with El Nido.
If you're looking for the best place to stay in this paradise-like destination in Palawan, we rounded up the best accommodations in El Nido in this article that you can choose from:
13. Panorama Resort
Photo by Panorama Resort
Located in Lugadia, Corong Corong, just around 11 kilometers away from the town center, Panorama Resort is a 3-star property boasting unique Filipino ambiance with its nipa hut-inspired architecture.
The resort is surrounded by lush green, giving guests a complete tropical feel at the heart of the island. Panorama Resort is two kilometers away from Papaya Beach and around 2.5 kilometers away from the famous Seven Commandos Beach.
It has eight rooms, each complete with air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen cable TV, and a heating system. Each room also has its own terrace with a pool view and is good for a maximum of two guests.
Outdoor amenities include a private beach area, a garden, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant for a gastronomic experience. The resort also broadcasts live sports events, features live music and performances from local bands and arranges snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and bicycle rental for additional fees.
12. Mad Monkey Hostel Nacpan Beach
Photo by Mad Monkey Hostel
Nacpan Beach is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in El Nido. It takes around a 90-minute tricycle ride from the town center to get there. This 4-kilometer beach stretches against a backdrop of swaying palm trees and a fishing village complete with crystal clear water perfect for those who want to lay still under the sun.
For those who want to stay near the secluded Nacpan Beach, there’s a famous hostel that almost feels like home: Mad Monkey Hostel. The hostel offers an authentic island experience with a taste of beachfront fun perfect for backpackers.
It has its own beachfront bar with live performances and night entertainment, and a restaurant that offers both local and international cuisines. Those who want a more affordable option for accommodation can opt for a dorm room with beachfront views.
For a little privacy, they have a nipa hut with a queen-sized mattress. The glamping tents are perfect for those traveling in groups or with their friends.
To complete the island experience, the rooms come with fans, mosquito nets, shared bathroom, and an endless view of the beach and the coconut trees.
11. Spin Designer Hostel
Photo by Spin Designer Hostel
One of the most awarded hostels in the Philippines, Spin Designer Hostel describes itself as an accommodation for wanderers and wonderers; a place where stories and experiences unfold. Some of its awards include Best Hotel in the Philippines in 2017 by HostelWorld and one of the Best Poshtels Worldwide by Poshpacker. Spin Designer Hostel is a favorite among backpackers because of its affordability and location.
The hostel offers four types of accommodation: private bunk for those traveling in pairs and in need of privacy; private single for those traveling solo; an all-female dorm; and a mixed dorm.
Community is also at the heart of Spin Designer with its shared spaces including Spin’s Central Hub, an Instagrammable spot that is also the best place to meet fellow travelers; the Deck, its outdoor space where guests can take their breakfast and end their day with music and some new friends; the Woods, a green outdoor workout space and garden; and the Table where you can start a conversation with a stranger.
The hostel also has a game room and free Wi-Fi in all rooms as well as events for its hip and adventurous crowd.
10. Frangipani El Nido Resort
Photo by Frangipani El Nido Resort
One of El Nido’s famous limestones is Karst Limestones and staying near it is made possible by Frangipani El Nido Resort.
The resort offers two types of rooms: the Suite Room which comes with a 50 square kilometer space with its own bathroom, private balcony, king-sized bed, air conditioning unit, a cable TV, mini bar, free Wi-Fi, and free breakfasts for two daily; and the One-bedroom Suite, a 100 square kilometer space with two bathrooms, a living room, a king-sized bed, air conditioning unit, two cable TVs, mini bar, free Wi-Fi, and free breakfasts for four daily.
Guests of the One-bedroom Suite also gets to enjoy its own private balcony with a view of the Bacuit Bay.
Guests of Frangipani El Nido Resort also have access to facilities such as an outdoor pool, direct beach access, bar and lounge, and water sports. Those who want to enjoy sumptuous dishes can do it at the in-house restaurant offering both Filipino and international menu, with dairy-free options too.
Getting to the resort from Lio Airport is also convenient as it is just around seven kilometers away while the famous tourist spot, Matinloc Shrine is just 14 kilometers from the property.
9. Maremegmeg Beach Club
Photo by Maremegmeg Beach Club
Maremegmeg Beach Club is a family-owned eco-luxury beach resort that offers both accessibility and tranquility. It is just five kilometers away from Matinloc Shrine. The resort’s design is accented with Filipino elements.
It is located in Taytay, El Nido and offers various facilities like a restaurant, an outdoor pool, water sports facilities, and a terrace. Due to its location on a cliff, the beach resort also offers stunning views whether it’s sea view, pool view, or mountain view.
Accommodations come with facilities such as air conditioning units, flat-screen TVs, a fridge, a private bathroom, a seating area, and a veranda with a spectacular view. The resort also has a wood laden resto-bar and breakfast options include Filipino and Continental dishes.
Those who want some enriching experience can look forward to Maremegmeg Beach Resort’s Happy Hours with live music performances and themed dinner nights.
The beach resort also offers access to water sports facilities such as paddleboards, speedboats, and kayaks and activities such as snorkeling. Another nearby tourist spot is Small Lagoon which is just five kilometers away from the resort.
8. The Birdhouse El Nido
Photo by the Birdhouse El Nido
Take glamping to the next level at The Birdhouse El Nido, a small boutique glamping hotel in Maremegmeg Beach, El Nido. With its five luxury suite tents, this hotel features a unique experience for travelers because of its location atop a mountain nestled in between trees.
Although getting to the hotel could be a challenge — one has to walk around Maremegmeg Beach and hike a little — a few sweat is all worth it when you finally reach The Birdhouse El Nido.
Its accommodation, also called, The Nests, feature locally crafted furniture and tropical views which exude a natural and earthy feel. The Nests offer either a garden or sea view and come with facilities such as eco-toiletries, a private bathroom, seating area, balcony, and outdoor furniture among others.
The Birdhouse El Nido also offers hiking and yoga classes for an additional fee. Its amenities include a yoga pavilion, a restaurant, and a common area for guests. There are also board games for anyone.
Its in-house restaurant, the Nesting Table offers Asian and international dishes that you can enjoy while overlooking the breathtaking views of Bacuit Bay or while enjoying a cocktail from the bar.
The Birdhouse El Nido is just eight kilometers away from Big Lagoon and nine kilometers from Small Lagoon too, making it an ideal base if you’re looking to do beach hopping.
7. Nacpan Beach Glamping
Photo by Nacpan Beach Glamping
This glamping site is located 22 kilometers north of the town of El Nido, just a stone's throw away from the famous Nacpan Beach. Also situated near Nacpan Beach Glamping is Calitang Beach. The site’s tents can accommodate up to two people and are decorated with native-style interiors.
The rooms come with a queen-sized bed, designer seats, Japanese paper pendant light, bedside lamps, fridge, and fans and guests can choose from either beachfront or mountain view. Relax with the cool sea breeze naturally entering your room because of the tents’ fitted zipped mesh windows and PVC windows.
The amenities cover all your needs too: every three tents have its own communal bathroom and shower room, each with its own wash area.
Nacpan Beach Glamping also offers several activities including sunset sailing, classes such as making origami using coconut leaves, and games around campfires. Those who want private sailing trips and private romantic dinners on the beach can have them arranged upon request.
6. Vellago Resort
Photo by Vellago Resort
This small boutique hotel resort is located Seven Commandos Beach, yet another pristine paradise island in El Nido. Vellago Resort offers several accommodation options including its most exclusive room, the Beach Villa which is situated just above the Beachview Suite; the Honeymoon Suite which is a two-floor cottage with its own spacious balcony and an awe-inspiring view of the Bacuit Bay; and the King Room and Queen Room, both deluxe rooms with queen beds.
Vellago Resort also has its own restaurant and beach bar with its menu ranging from small bites, salad, pasta, and seafood among others. Breakfasts are served on the guests’ balcony so you can enjoy breakfast with a view. Dinners come with lit-up torches, complete with a romantic ambiance especially for couples on their holiday getaways.
The resort can also arrange speedboat rides, kayaking, and snorkeling activities. Equipment for water activities are also available onsite. If you want to set up a romantic dinner with your loved one, Vellago Resort offers a romantic beach set-up complete with champagne, cakes, flowers, and more. Romantic dinners also come with a three-course dinner of your choice.
For those in need of a relaxing nightcap, they have an in-house masseuse who offers different types of massages including Swedish, Reflexology and Shiatsu.
5. Seda Lio
Photo by Seda Lio
This five-star contemporary hotel is located within the Lio Tourism Estate, an expansive 325-hectare complex tourism complex in El Nido. Seda Lio is a must-visit if you’re looking for an accommodation that offers tranquility, accessibility, and comfort in one. Getting to Seda Lio is so easy and convenient as it is just around three kilometers away from Lio Airport.
The resort has 150 rooms which can cater to solo travelers, groups of friends, families, and even corporate getaways. You can choose from its three main room types: Deluxe which comes with its own balcony and offers premium amenities; Suite with its own bath with a tub, living area, and balcony; and Seda Suite which has its separate living and dining room, kitchenette, and an extended balcony.
Because of its modern facilities, Seda Lio can host meetings and conventions too — a unique offering from neighboring hotels in El Nido. It has its Narra Room that can host up to 150 people and Ipil Rooms which can cater to a more intimate group of 15 to 40 people.
For outdoor events such as destination weddings, Seda Lio has a courtyard garden and a beachfront area for a more dramatic setting. Seda Lio also has its own restaurant, Misto, which offers local and international dishes and a pool bar that offers snacks and thirst-quenching beverages.
4. Cauayan Resort
Photo by Cauayan Resort
This luxury resort, located in Bacuit Bay and surrounded by lush greenery, is a private escape for those looking to get away from the city. It has different types of villas, all uniquely designed with native Philippine materials and give guests a truly Filipino experience.
Their Beach View Villas are equipped with twin beds or king-sized beds and a wooden terrace; the Lagoon Villas have views of a man-made lagoon and a waterfall; the Water Villas are tucked just right near the clear blue waters; the Beach Front Villas have a view of the beach; the Bayview Cauayan Pool Villas overlook the bay; and the Sunrise and Resort View Cauayan Pool Villas with a view of the El Nido sunrise and the limestone formations illuminated at night.
Cauayan Resort is home to Cauayan Diving Center which offers diving activities that will let you explore and experience the best diving sites in El Nido. The center has a professional team of instructors and divemasters and provides access to high-quality diving equipment.
If you want to take your diving experience to the next level, the center also offers programs with diving certifications. Other activities that the resort offers are yoga sessions, kayaking, snorkeling, baby sharks-watching, trekking, and board games.
Hotel amenities include a local crafts boutique, gym and fitness center, infinity pool, the Cauayan Pool Bar, the Cauayan Restaurant, and a spa center where you can have the relaxing Cauayan Signature Massage and Foot Reflex. If you want to set up a romantic or intimate dinner, Cauayan Resort can also do that for you.
3. Matinloc Resort
Photo by Matinloc Resort
Matinloc Resort prides itself as a family-friendly resort situated right in the heart of Matinloc Island. This exclusive enclave offers a luxurious treat for holiday-goers. From its premium guestrooms, private beach to its beachside restaurant and top-notch recreational facilities, one cannot help but feel like a VIP.
Accommodations can either be Luxury Villas and Specialty Suites with either a forest view or sea view. The villas are connected by garden paths and lush forests which even add up to the overall relaxing and comforting feel of being close to nature.
Luxury Villas have a separate living area and extra baths. Rooms come with Roman-style architecture adding to the elegant and classy feeling of staying in Matinloc Resort. Those who want to feel extra special, the VIP villas have an expansive view of the beauty of El Nido and a large, wraparound terrace for guests. Specialty Suites, on the other hand, have options a garden view, partial sea view, or sea view.
For your culinary experience, Matinloc Resort’s culinary team will not disappoint. Its restaurant offers island-inspired creations from both East and West. From a luxurious buffet or cook-to-order breakfast, enjoy your meal while basking in the tranquility of the ocean and taking in the beauty of nature around you. Sip your cocktail from its bar lounge or enjoy your own private dining by request.
2. El Nido Resorts Lagen Island
Photo by El Nido Resorts Lagen Island
Yet another sanctuary that is tucked right by the forest is El Nido Resorts’ Lagen Island. Not only is it a paradise for ocean lovers but for nature lovers too because of the variety of birds and mammals that can be found on the island.
The resort features 51 rooms, made impressively using materials recycled from old Filipino homes. Rooms are fully furnished with full-height sliding glass doors with options of a forest view, water view, or cove view. All room types can accommodate up to three people and come with convenient access to the clubhouse and the pool.
As an eco-sanctuary, guests can enjoy birdwatching and mangrove exploration, as well as on-site sports activities perfect for the whole family such as frisbee, volleyball, badminton, soccer, and table tennis. Kids also get access to the resort’s Kids Activity Center and traditional Filipino games upon request.
The resort also offers onsite marine sports such as diving, kayaking, and windsurfing. You can also hike through the forest trail to get to one of the coves on the island that offers a spectacular view.
1. El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island
Photo by El Nido Resorts Pangulasian
Another eco-sanctuary and paradise in one is Pangulasian Island of El Nido Resorts. Located in Bacuit Bay, this resort will leave you with jaw-dropping scenery of El Nido's turquoise waters. Like Lagen Island, Pangulasian Island is also set against a backdrop of a tropical forest with stunning sunrise and sunset views. This is why it's called the “Island of the Sun.”
Accommodations are designed elegantly with Filipino design elements. Pangulasian Island has 42 luxury rooms with eight Canopy Villas, these are treetop villas with a forest view, has its own bathtub, and equipped with one king bed and one day bed.
It has 24 Beach Villas which are conveniently located near the beach, the infinity pool, and the beach bar; six Pool Villas with views of the Bacuit Bay and are connected to the balcony, and the rest being Kalaw Villas which are more private and are located in a secluded cove with its own private sala for intimate gatherings.
All of the villas can accommodate up to three people and are equipped with amenities like their own private balcony, Wi-Fi access, satellite TV, and minibar among others.
For a more complete adventurous experience, make sure to check out the resort’s activities including its private sunset cruise, spa services, and dinner by the beach.
Find the Best Place to Stay in El Nido
Photo by El Nido Resorts Lagen Island
El Nido will not be known as one of the must-visit islands in the world for no reason. These hotels and resorts in El Nido have all found something to be proud of and to show off to travelers: from giving exclusive and VIP treatment to offering affordable, yet cozy tropical home away from home.
If you’re looking for one of the best places to do a beach getaway in the Philippines, look no further, as El Nido, Palawan has everything you might be looking for.
