Traveling to El Nido? Lucky you! It’s a beautiful part of the world. Now you’ve decided to go, you need to find where to stay in El Nido for your budget and travel style. And that’s what we will help you with here!
El Nido is your gateway to the sun-kissed 45 islands of the Bacuit Archipelago which have some of the most stunning pristine white beaches in the world. With vibrant coral reefs and limestone karst cliffs – similar to those found at Ha Long Bay, Vietnam or Krabi, Thailand – secret lagoons, caves, waterfalls, 30+ dive sites and an abundance of marine life, it’s not a surprise that El Nido is constantly ranked as one of the top island destinations in the Philippines.
Located at the northern tip of Palawan island, reachable by a short flight from either Manila or Cebu, El Nido offers visitors a plethora of accommodation options. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels, beach hotels or budget accommodation, you won’t be disappointed.
In this article, I’ll help you find the best hotel in El Nido no matter what your budget or what exactly you are looking for.
Here is our list of the best resorts in El Nido as well as some information about where to stay in El Nido.
Best Places To Stay In El Nido:Comparison
| Name | Star Rating | Price (USD) | Book |
| Cauayan Boutique Private Island | ★★★★★ | $$$$ | Click here |
| El Nido Resorts Lagen Island | ★★★★★ | $$$$ | Click here |
| Matinloc Island Resort | ★★★★☆ | $$$$ | Click here |
| Frangipani El Nido | ★★★★ | $$$ | Click here |
| Mahogany Resort and Spa | ★★★★☆ | $$$ | Click here |
| Cuna Hotel | ★★★☆ | $$ | Click here |
| S Resort El Nido | ★★★ | $$ | Click here |
| Anang Balay Turista | ★★ | $ | Click here |
| Spin Designer Hostel | ★★ | $ | Click here |
Where To Stay In El Nido
Our selection for the best area to stay in El Nido ranges from the rustic, busy, small beach town of El Nido Town Proper to the luxurious exotic Islands for the ultimate get-away-from-it-all experience.
Alternatively, choose to relax at one of the quieter nearby bays such as Corong Corong or Caalan, where the slow pace of daily life, empty beaches and spectacular sunsets will quickly have you planning a return visit!
Town Proper
Scattered with 3-4 star accommodation options, and the nearest location to the main beach of El Nido, Town Proper is where you’ll enjoy a range of local restaurants and bars, and find island-hopping agencies offering tours and diving, and a handful of souvenir shops.
The beach is protected by a sweeping bay, sheltering the many dive and tourist banca boats which give the beach a busy vibe. Speed boats whiz guests off to luxury island resorts and local fishermen tend to nets.
This is not a beach for swimming or sunbathing, and a stay here is usually used as a base for daily tours around the Bacuit Archipelago or to nearby quieter beaches. At night, you’ll find a relaxed local feel with live music or karaoke filling the warm air.
This is the best area to stay in El Nido if you want to be close to the action. You’ll find Town Proper offers a mixture of some of the most affordable hotels in El Nido including many budget hotels/hostels.
The Islands
Stunning private-island resorts are only a short speed boat ride from El Nido Town Proper. These luxury resorts offer exclusivity and seclusion, usually with a mixture of beach and water villa accommodation. Splurge and enjoy luxury amenities, beautiful pools, fine dining, and endless views of turquoise waters.
Corong Corong/Marimegmeg Beach
15 minutes walk south of Town Proper, and stretching for more than 3 kilometres, Corong Corong’s sweeping bay is enclosed to the east by lush green hills and tall palm trees, and to the west a splendid unobstructed sunset view of Bacuit Bay.
At the southern end of the bay is Marimegmeg Beach, home to the famous Las Cabanas zipline spanning across two islands. With its wonderful fine white sand, a handful of resorts and stores, snorkeling and kayak rentals, this is paradise found! Sit back, sip your sundowner, and enjoy the dramatic sunsets.
Here you’ll find some of the newest and smaller beachfront accommodation with modern interiors. They are often positioned to watch the fireball sun disappear over the horizon.
Caalan
A short tricycle ride north from Town Proper, Caalan is another peaceful location to base yourself. Yet again, a stretch of west-facing beach awaits with soft powdery sand, gentle waves and jaw-dropping sunsets. Enjoy an excellent snorkeling area at the northern tip of the beach.
Slightly off the main tourist path, Caalan offers views of nearby Cadlao Island and is an area that is slowly growing with restaurants and beach bars. Home to some of the cheaper hotels and nearest to Nacpan Beach, 35 minutes further north.
Nacpan is a spectacular 4 kilometer-long beach often mentioned as one of the world’s top beaches. Make it a full day trip by combining with a visit to nearby Makinit Hot Springs.
Island Hopping…
As an alternative, why not island hop in this beautiful part of the world and move between different resorts instead of picking just one place to stay?
Top 9 Best Resorts & Hotels In El Nido
Cauayan Boutique Private Island Resort Review
Address: Cauayan Island Bacuit Bay, El Nido, Palawan
After a breezy 25 minute speed boat ride, a tropical ambiance welcomes you to Cauayan Island with colorful flowers, lush palm trees and beautiful wooden thatched villas. Attentive staff, sleek speed boats for diving and excursions, and a diverse restaurant menu. Does it get much better than this?
This resort has top-rated amenities, services and activities. The outdoor infinity pool is a focal point, with the restaurant decking wrapped alongside. Dine under the stars and feel the lure of the twinkling pool.
Rooms are rustic villas with modern interiors – the majority have outdoor showers and some come with private pools – located either up in the green hill spanning the middle of the island, directly on the white sand beach with lagoon views, or on stilts over the water.
Relax, enjoy fine dining, or massage away the stress of travel whilst watching through the glass panels in the Spa’s floorboards as playful young sharks dart in and out of corals.
Feeling active? Cauayan Diving Center offers up to 15 dive sites, or try your hand at kayaking around the island, hit the gym or join staff for a trek in search of endemic flora and fauna. Yoga, snorkeling, island-hopping and sunset cruises will help fill up your day. Or, simply chill on your villa’s balcony.
Click here for more information.
Best Parts?
One of the top 5 star resorts with beautiful villas, stunning views and private beach.
Worst Parts?
An expensive resort, with European prices for dining, spa and tours. The lagoon has many rocks which, especially in low tide, can make swimming difficult. Limited/no wifi connection.
Summary
A stay at Cauayan is a luxurious treat. Ideal for romantic couples and honeymooners, guests celebrating special anniversaries or anyone looking for a pampered private island stay.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
El Nido Resorts Lagen Island Review
Address: Lagen Island, El Nido, Palawan
A nature lover’s dream of a resort on Lagen Island, El Nido Resorts’ Eco-Sanctuary Island Resort is one of the leading resorts in this area. A four-hectare forest covers the island, with endemic species thriving in their natural habitat, and dramatic limestone cliffs dropping into the crystal-clear waters.
A 45 minute boat ride brings guests from El Nido Town Proper to the island, where they are met with the stunning view of a calm cove speckled with water villas and a handful of beach villas, enveloped by the dense forest.
The resort has a total of 51 rooms with a mixture of cottages, rooms and suites. All have a private veranda and feature antique wood floors, bamboo or rattan furniture, modern interiors and a focus on an indoor-outdoor design.
Enjoy free non-motorized sports, a large swimming pool with panoramic bay views, a diving center and a serene spa. Children are spoilt for choice with a kids club and game room.
Birdwatching, mangrove exploration, hiking and cave tours are on offer alongside complimentary activities such as volleyball, table tennis, badminton and soccer. Sunset dinners, remote sandbar visits, boat cruises, snorkeling… never a dull moment at Lagen Island!
Click here for more information.
Best Parts?
The natural habitat, filled with monkeys, monitor lizards, hornbills and more. Private use of the island and the facilities. Many complimentary activities. It’s noted for its friendly, helpful staff. The resort is founded on principles of sustainable tourism.
Worst Parts?
For a luxury resort, the Clubhouse Restaurant gains mixed reviews.
Summary
A laidback luxury atmosphere, focusing on the environment and nature, Lagen Island is one of the top choices in this list. Guests are mainly outdoor enthusiasts or honeymooners, but the resort also attracts families due to their child-friendly activities.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Matinloc Island Resort Review
Address: Matinloc Island, Brgy, El Nido, Palawan
Promoted as “family friendly”, Matinloc Island Resort is built around a small strip of beach, tucked away between high karst limestone cliffs on Matinloc Island. This resort is approximately 40 minutes by boat from El Nido Town Proper. Remote and tranquil, guests spend their days relaxing poolside or on the private white sand beach.
The resort’s 29 villas are a mixture of beach, mountain, VIP and family suites, most with terrace and ocean views. Dark wooden floors, crisp white walls and linen and floor to ceiling glass doors emit an almost colonial feel.
All the usual activities and tours are available, with rental of kayak and snorkeling equipment complimentary. Spend your day visiting the nearby Matinloc Sandbar or take the nature trail in search of tropical plants, birds and animals. Join staff for bottom-fishing in the deep clear waters of the Palio Sea. Finish your day at the onsite Spa.
Click here for more information.
Best Parts?
Secluded location with a laid back, private vibe feel. The beautiful shorefront and oceanfront infinity pool are highlights. Good onsite dive school and snorkeling available straight off from the beach.
Worst Parts?
The restaurant menu can become repetitive over a long stay. Sun sets are on the opposite side of the island, and there is mostly no evening entertainment. Transfers to the resort can be affected by the weather.
Summary
A remote private small resort, with a laid back atmosphere. It is ideal for those looking to escape and unwind for a few days, without expecting 5-star amenities or service. This is an attractive choice for families with children that are happy to spend their time outdoors or swimming.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Frangipani El Nido Review
Address: Sitio Lugadia Corong Corong, El Nido, Palawan
An Adult only hotel, located midway along the Corong Corong bay, Frangipani El Nido is an easy 15 minutes drive from Lio Airport.
This beachfront hotel is set amidst a backdrop of the famous karst limestone cliffs, and boasts a small swimming pool and bar surrounded by tropical plants directly overlooking the beach and ocean.
With only 7 rooms, this boutique hotel offers a choice of a suite room or a one-bedroom suite. They are all housed within one building on the ground or first floor, all with amazing sunset views. Rooms are ocean-facing, super modern with private balcony.
There are two restaurants to choose from – Cala offering beach side dining and the splendid Rubra Lounge & Bar with its glass windows showcasing the beach and ocean backdrop. Grab your seat, order a cocktail and settle down for the dramatic sunset.
Non-motorized water sports are on offer, such as paddle boarding, snorkeling and beach games. There are bicycles for rent.
Click here for more information.
Best Parts?
The beachfront views are a highlight. You will find modern rooms with world-class views and friendly, helpful staff.
Worst Parts?
15 minutes drive to El Nido Town Proper.
Summary
This is a boutique hotel for adults looking to chill out for a few nights – couples or solo travelers. There are excellent rooms, with spectacular views and a long beach waiting to be explored.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Mahogany Resort And Spa Review
Address: Barangay Corong Corong, El Nido, Palawan
Located at Corong Corong, inside a 5000-squared-meter coconut grove and surrounded by tropical gardens, you can relax and unwind at this traditional Philippine resort.
Deluxe rooms and garden villas (simple thatched villas) dot the landscape. Wood, rattan and wicker furniture feature heavily, blended with modern comforts and elegant bathrooms. You can laze on your spacious terrace or take a snooze in your Palawan traditional wicker hammock.
Spend your day touring or island hopping before returning to the resort to enjoy the amazing sunset. You can take a swim in the outdoor pool or catch some rays poolside whilst enjoying a fruity cocktail.
Mahogany Beach Resort has a boutique feel, with friendly staff and personal attention. A cooked-to-order breakfast is delivered to your villa’s terrace or served at the small restaurant. In-room massages can be arranged via reception.
Click here for more information.
Best Parts?
Quiet and private location, a few hundred meters back from world class beach. Daily breakfast room delivery. There are beautiful gardens.
Worst Parts?
Beach hawkers often wait at the hotel’s boundary hoping to tempt guests with their wares.
Summary
This is a traditionally styled accommodation which opens onto Corong Corong beach, offering peace and quiet, but in easy reach of El Nido Town Proper. There are spacious terraces, friendly service and tasty cuisine.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Cuna Hotel El Nido Review
Address: Osmeña St, Barangay Buena Suerte, El Nido, Palawan
One of ,y top mmidrange picks, Cuna Hotel in El Nido Town Proper is a small, mid-standard town hotel with 87 rooms fitted with air conditioning and private bathrooms. Select from twin, triple or deluxe options. Rooms mostly face onto the bustling streets of Town Proper, but we recommend requesting those with a mountain view.
An American breakfast is available daily and complimentary snacks are offered at the lobby. In-room dining is also available. The rooftop swimming pool is a delight, with terrace seating offering dramatic ocean views and a romantic spot for a nightcap.
Cuna Hotel is walking distance to the beach for meeting tour boats, and located in the middle of shops and restaurants.
Click here for more information.
Best Parts?
This is a secure and modern Town Proper hotel with a picturesque rooftop pool setting. It’s in a handy location for island hopping tours.
Worst Parts?
Good beaches are a tricycle ride away.
Summary
This hotel is great for anyone looking for safe Town Proper accommodation and planning to arrange island hopping tours. There are many dining options in the nearby vicinity and lively local bars.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
S Resort El Nido Review
Address: Rizal St, El Nido, Palawan
This is a simple 3-star hotel with comfortable, basic clean rooms with showers. Deluxe twin/double and king rooms are on offer with complimentary wifi. S Resort is centrally located. It’s convenient for shopping, booking island tours and nightlife. Major beaches are a short walk away.
There is a rooftop BBQ and the property also serves a buffet breakfast.
Click here for more information.
Best Parts?
This hotel has a convenient location. It is right in the middle of town and a step away from everything. There is also a lovely rooftop BBQ.
Worst Parts?
Street noise can sometimes be heard from the room.
Summary
This accommodation is ideal for travelers looking for comfortable touches and wanting private facilities and a convenient location.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Anang Balay Turista Review
Address: Serena St, Buena Suerte Pob. (Barangay 2), El Nido, Palawan
Anang Balay Turista is located at the waterfront right in the heart of El Nido Town Proper. It’s hard to beat this location! Staying here surrounds you with local restaurants, shops, and tour agencies.
The guest house offers standard double rooms, twin rooms, triple rooms and spacious quadruple rooms. All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, private bathrooms with hot and cold showers, and complimentary Wi-Fi. There is a shared terrace area with amazing sea views.
On-site is a travel agency where you can book all your local tours as well as travel further afield.
Click here for more information.
Best Parts?
An unbeatable central location in El Nido Town Proper that puts views, restaurants, shops, and tour departures right at your doorstep. Super clean and budget-friendly rates make it an excellent value for families and group travelers.
Worst Parts?
The water pressure is bad in the showers. The “sea view” rooms do not have a sea view. The stairs are very steep so this is not a good choice if you struggle physically or have young kids.
Summary
If you are looking for an affordable, and conveniently located guest house in El Nido Town Proper, Anang Balay Turista is a fantastic pick. With its authentic local charm, amazing views and clean rooms, it provides a hassle-free base for your Palawan adventures.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Spin Designer Hostel Review
Address: Balinsasayaw Road cor. Calle Real, El Nido, Palawan
Looking for a trendy hostel stay? Want to meet fellow travelers, swap stories and enjoy some shared island-hopping adventures? Spin Designer Hostel is our pick for you!
24-hour security, daily housekeeping, laundromat, ticket service and thoughtful amenities ensure your comfort and safety. There is nightly bar entertainment and free wifi in public areas. Children are welcome.
Spin Designer Hostel is spread across two floors with 30 rooms. Private single rooms, twin rooms with bunk beds, 4-bed female dormitory, 4-bed mixed dormitory are just a few of their varied sleeping options.
All guests enjoy the use of the shared kitchen with BBQ facility, a game room and a common terrace with views surrounded by a lush forest.
Spin Designer Hostel is located an easy 5 minute walk outside of Town Proper.
Click here for more information.
Best Parts?
This hostel is clean, with free laundry service, helpful staff and freshly cooked breakfast. There is fun evening entertainment and you can meet fellow travelers from all corners of the globe. The all-you-can-eat-BBQ is popular.
Worst Parts?
It’s a 5 minute walk to El Nido Town Proper and a 15 minute walk to El Nido Town Proper beach or a 20 minute walk to Corong Corong.
Summary
Traveling solo or enjoy meeting people? Happy to share facilities? This hostel is a fantastic budget option on the outskirts of El Nido Town Proper. It receives top reviews on Tripadvisor.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Map Of The Best Hotels In El Nido
Find all our top hotels on the map below.
I hope you found this guide to the best places to stay in El Nido useful. You can find our full guide to El Nido here including our perfect El Nido itinerary. We also have a guide on getting to El Nido from Coron.
