Nestled within the heart of El Nido’s breathtaking Bacuit Bay, the Big Lagoon is one of the most iconic destinations in the Philippines. Known for its emerald waters, towering limestone cliffs, and serene ambiance, this natural wonder is a must-visit for travelers seeking adventure and tranquility. Often featured in El Nido’s Tour A, the Big Lagoon is a spectacular showcase of Palawan’s pristine beauty and biodiversity.
BIG LAGOON ON TOUR A
Big Lagoon is part of Tour A in El Nido. I was lucky enough to experience Tour A, Tour B and Tour C and Tour D. Tour A was incredible with a good mixture of epic limestone cliffs, snorkeling and of course the Secret Lagoon.
EL NIDO ISLAND HOPPING TOUR A: Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Miniloc Island, Shimizu Island, Snorkel with turtles at Seven Commando Beach, and a BBQ Lunch
WHAT TO EXPECT AT BIG LAGOON
The Big Lagoon stands out for its vast, cathedral-like surroundings, where crystal-clear waters are encased by dramatic limestone formations. It offers a magical combination of adventure, discovery, and serenity that captivates visitors from the moment they arrive.
- Magnificent Limestone Cliffs: The lagoon is framed by towering limestone karsts, their rugged beauty contrasting vividly with the turquoise waters. These cliffs are millions of years old, formed from ancient coral reefs that were uplifted over millennia.
- Pristine Waters: The lagoon’s waters shift in color, ranging from deep emerald greens to light aquamarines depending on the depth, sunlight, and time of day. It’s a stunning visual experience and perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply marveling at the natural scenery.
- The adventure: The lagoon begins with a shallow, sandy area, accessible by boat. From there, visitors can explore deeper sections, either by kayak or swimming, as the lagoon opens into a vast and tranquil expanse.
ISLAND HOPPING ‘OPTIONS’ IN EL NIDO
I was lucky enough to experience Tour A, Tour B and Tour C and Tour D. However, don’t stress about which ‘letter tour’ will be the best. It’s El Nido, you are going to be visiting lagoons and beaches that will blow your mind no matter what tour you are on.
- BIG DREAM BOAT MAN TRIP: 3-NIGHT Island Hopping Expedition to all of the top spots on a crossing from El Nido to Coron! I did it and it’s my favorite Palawan experience BY FAR!
- EL NIDO ISLAND HOPPING TOUR A: Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Miniloc Island, Shimizu Island, Snorkel with turtles at Seven Commando Beach, BBQ Lunch
- EL NIDO ISLAND HOPPING TOUR B: Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, Cudugnon Cave, BBQ Lunch
- EL NIDO ISLAND HOPPING TOUR C: Helicopter Island, Secret Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Talisay Beach, BBQ Lunch
- EL NIDO ISLAND HOPPING TOUR D: Island, Pasandingan Beach, Small Lagoon, Natnat Beach, BBQ Lunch
MY EXPERIENCE AT THE BIG LAGOON (Multiple Trips)
I’ve had several experiences at the Big Lagoon and each one has been truly unique. On my first visit in 2016, we did a lap in the boat before moving on to the Small Lagoon. On my second visit, I swam into the Big Lagoon (not that easy in a lifejacket) and on my third and fourth visits, I was part of the Red Bull Cliff Diving organization when they held their private event in the Big Lagoon. It’s safe to say I’ve spent some time inside this epic lagoon.
After all of my visits, I can tell you there is no best way to enjoy the Big Lagoon but when I slowed down and just floated in the entrance channel, I did truly appreciate the natural beauty around me. As everyone was kayaking past and talking about how busy it was or where to grab their next selfie, I just floated in my lifejacket looking up at the limestone cliffs it was bliss.
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TOP 3 PLACES TO STAY IN EL NIDO
El Nido has a mix of luxury resorts, budget hotels and backpacker hostels. I’ve stayed in all three of those categories over the years and these are my favorite picks.
- My TOP Pick: Cadlao Resort: I simply love the sunset view from their infinity pool. Simple!
- Beachfront: Piece Lio: The perfect, peaceful beach setting for your vacation.
- Best Resort: Panorama Resort: – Best overall vibe with awesome design, restaurant and pool
So aside from highly suggesting just chilling in the entrance channel, you do need to know some information. Firstly, your tour boat isn’t going to take you inside. It will drop you at the entrance and then you will need to hire a kayak for $6 I think is the going rate and it will be an hour or less for the rental as that is all your tour boat will be staying for.
Without the kayak (unless you are mildly crazy and swim like me) you won’t be able to explore much of the lagoon as it is genuinely BIG. I do suggest paying for the kayak, which you can split between two people.
You will paddle down the narrow and shallow entrance channel for a few minutes in the crystal clear water. You will be above sand here so the water looks almost white or green compared to the dark blue of the lagoon.
After a few minutes, depending on your paddling intensity, you’ll emerge into the Big Lagoon. Now the adventure begins because there are lots of little coves and corners to explore and there can even be turtles hiding in the lagoon. Make the most of your time once you are in here as your tour boat will likely give you an hour limit.
On my final visits into the Big Lagoon with Red Bull cliff diving, it was quite a different scene. They had set up two diving boards on the cliffs, where the divers had to climb with ropes and clips to reach the boards. They jumped from 21m and 27m performing some incredible stunts in the final of the Philippines Red Bull Cliff Diving, which was part of the 7-stop world tour of 2019.
ACTIVITIES IN BIG LAGOON
- Kayaking: Kayaking is the most popular activity in the Big Lagoon. Paddle through narrow passages and explore the hidden corners of the lagoon at your own pace. Kayaks are often rented as part of the tour package.
- Swimming: The clear, calm waters of the lagoon are perfect for a refreshing swim. While parts of the lagoon are shallow, deeper sections allow for a more immersive experience.
- Photography: Big Lagoon is a paradise for photographers. The interplay of light on the water, the imposing limestone cliffs, and the lush greenery create endless photo opportunities. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best lighting.
- Snorkeling: While the Big Lagoon isn’t known for extensive coral reefs, snorkeling around the entrance reveals marine life such as fish, starfish, and small reef creatures.
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Some tours offer stand-up paddleboards for those who want a unique way to traverse the lagoon and enjoy the scenery.
BIG LAGOON DRONE VIDEO
El Nido is known as the drone graveyard. Many pilots lose connection amidst the limestone cliffs. On this day, I managed to get a nice flight through the Big Lagoon to show you what to expect.
WHERE IS THE BIG LAGOON
Big Lagoon on the east side of Miniloc Island. It isn’t too far from El Nido Town but you will need to be on a tour boat to get out there. I’ve pinned it on the map below in case you want to see what other attractions are nearby.
WHERE TO STAY IN EL NIDO
- (Value) Spin Designer Hostel: Let’s go for Spin! This rad hostel is located at the bustling town of El Nido. This property is highly recommended by many travelers as the service is superb. Spin Designer Hostel also provides a shared kitchen with a barbecue facility. It is value for money and very close to shops and beach. If you stay here you will make friends with like-minded strangers and be in the prime location for the nightlife, island hopping and hiking Taraw Peak. The beach literally steps away.
- (Most Insta-worthy) Panorama Resort: Panorama Resort is an exotic boutique resort tucked between Corong-Corong Beach and Maremigmeg Beach, is a 3-star property that features a panoramic view of the mountains in El Nido. The resort is very insta-worthy and has a lot of amenities including a private beach, outdoor and indoor swimming pool, and free WiFi. It offers an amazing sunset view and chill vibe to guests.
- (Luxury Resort) Las Cabanas Beach Resort: This incredible beach resort is situated perfectly on the shore of Las Cabanas beach in El Nido. It offers a peaceful sanctuary from the harsh realities of the outside world. The resort is picturesque and provides easy access to island hopping and other activities. It has rooms with sea and garden views, and the beachfront cottages are single standalone units.
ARE YOU KEEPING UP WITH MY EL NIDO SERIES?
You want to go island-hopping in El Nido but aren’t sure whether TOUR A,B,C or D will be better? Take a look at my El Nido Island Hopping Guide that compares all of the four tours to help you pick the best one for you. One of the best ways to explore Palawan is with Big Dream Boat Man on their 3-night Island-Hopping Tour to avoid the crowds and visit all the best spots between El Nido and Coron. I’ve done it and loved it!
Wondering what there is to do in El Nido? I’ve been twice and spent almost 30 days in El Nido so I’ve got some great recommendations for you in my Travel Guide to El Nido: 20 Awesome Things To Do
Which region will you choose for your accommodation in El Nido? I’ve broken each region down and given you suggestions for budget, value and luxury in El Nido Town, Lio Beach and Las Cabanas Beach in this guide: Where to stay in El Nido or check out my Guide to the 16 Best El Nido Resorts or for some luxury the 13 Best Overwater Bungalows in The Philippines.
Of course, everyone loves the island hopping in El Nido, but it can be hard to figure out which tour is best for you. I’ve done a full review about each tour.
- My review and photos of: Island Hopping Tour A
- My review and photos of: Island Hopping Tour B
- My review and photos of: Island Hopping Tour C
- My review and photos of: Island Hopping Tour D
If you are considering which island to visit in Palawan, here is a helpful Guide Comparing El Nido vs Coron or you can visit El Nido and then take the ferry to Coron.
