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 Tour 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 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!
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
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.
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
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.
Dii
Friday 13th of September 2024
Thank you for this guide, Jackson! Excited to visit El Nido.