Cathedral Cave is a phenomenal spot, unlike any other in El Nido. It was one of the most incredible spots I’ve been to in El Nido with huge stalactites like pillars in the cave that goes back more than 40-meters. We swam through the luminescent water, eerily waiting for something to come out of the darkness.
You will find the Cathedral Cave on Tour B, in El Nido, which is a pretty underrated tour. Everyone flocks to Tour A and Tour C and then leaves El Nido but some of the spots on Tour B are incredible. There are hardly any crowds and you actually get that island vibe, deserted paradise feeling that you definitely don’t get on Tour A and C. The highlight for me was the beautiful Pinagbuyutan Island, which we had more or less to ourselves for several hours but Snake Island and Cathedral Cave were great also.
To book your EL NIDO ISLAND HOPPING B TOUR you can Click Here to check the availability and book online (It’s just $18 USD)
- It includes Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, Cathedral Cave, Cudugnon Cave, BBQ Lunch
CATHEDRAL CAVE ON PINASIL ISLAND
From the outside, the Cathedral Cave looks anything but impressive. In fact, I thought this might be one of those filler activities they throw in to pass some time. We had already been to Snake Island and Pinagbuyutan so that wouldn’t be surprising. However, when we started to edge closer it became more interesting.
Our boat ended up parking right outside the cave and we asked our guide if we could swim in. He was a bit reluctant and told us there were snakes in the cave. I’m pretty sure he was lying but he didn’t fill us with confidence. We jumped in anyway.
Once inside we discovered an incredible luminescent section of water within the cave. The roof was so high up with sharp stalactites pointing down at us. With such a high ceiling and natural chandeliers, it soon became clear why this cave was called the Cathedral.
We swam all the way to the back of the cave and climbed up the rocks. From the very back left corner, and only from there, the entire cave had a green glow. From anywhere else it was dull. Try it!
We filmed a few clips underwater and you can see the glow of the blue as the light shines out from outside the cave. It’s genuinely a beautiful place if you have a sense of adventure but no so much for half of our group who stayed on the boat. They just saw a big crack in the rock! Always stay curious.
WHERE IS CATHEDRAL CAVE
Cathedral Cave is located on the edge of Pinasil Island, which is quite an imposing limestone island. What seems like a small crack gets bigger as your boat arrives closer and then it becomes hard to miss the Cathedral Cave.
ISLAND HOPPING IN EL NIDO, PALAWAN
I was lucky enough to experience Tour A, Tour B and Tour C, but have not yet made it on 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.
To book your EL NIDO ISLAND HOPPING A TOUR you can Click Here to check the availability and book online (It’s just $18 USD)
- It includes Three Lagoons at Miniloc Island, Shimizu Island, Snorkel with turtles at Seven Commando Beach, BBQ Lunch
To book your EL NIDO ISLAND HOPPING B TOUR you can Click Here to check the availability and book online (It’s just $18 USD)
- It includes Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, Cudugnon Cave, BBQ Lunch
To book your EL NIDO ISLAND HOPPING C TOUR you can Click Here to check the availability and book online (It’s just $18 USD)
- It includes Helicopter Island, Secret Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Talisay Beach, BBQ Lunch
To book your EL NIDO ISLAND HOPPING D TOUR you can Click Here to check the availability and book online (It’s just $18 USD)
- It includes Cadlao Island, Pasandingan Beach, Small Lagoon, Natnat Beach, BBQ Lunch
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.
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
My Review and photos of: Tour A
My Review and photos of: Tour B
My Review and photos of: Tour C
The most epic activity you can do in El Nido on the land is to hike up Taraw Peak and I share the photos and tell you how you can use the same local guide as me in this blog post: Hiking up Taraw Peak – What You Need to Know