El Nido is known to be one of the most traveled destinations in the Philippines because of its world-class beaches and island hopping. Despite being a world-class travel hotspot, it remains a quiet and peaceful town and there are plenty of cheap hotels in El Nido with affordable restaurants and bars nearby.
My personal favorites are One El Nido Suite for its affordability and excellent staff and El Nido Bayview Hotel for its excellent location and private swimming pool.
QUICK PICKS: MY 3 FAVORITE CHEAP HOTELS IN EL NIDO
Don’t have time to read my detailed breakdown of all the best cheap hotels in El Nido? No worries! These are my three top picks. If you book one of these three, you are guaranteed to have a great stay in a great location!
WHICH AREA TO LOOK FOR CHEAP HOTELS IN EL NIDO
El Nido has four popular areas (Buena Suerte, Masagana, Maligaya, Nacpan Beach, and Corong-Corong) where resorts, hostels, hotels, and other types of accommodations are stationed. Here’s a quick look at what each area is like.
Buena Suerte: Buena Suerte is the town proper that is just parallel to the beach giving easy access to the action with a bit of nightlife. Tucked in the southern beaches of the town proper, is another tropical paradise.
Corong Corong: Corong-Corong will give you isolated tropical heaven feel despite its distance to the bus terminal. The Calaan Beach area, where resorts have started to flourish, is your piece of the beautiful sanctuary, too. Like Corong-Corong the crowd is mostly not felt.
Nacpan Beach: This amazing beach is often a day trip for most of the people staying in El Nido Proper. However, staying at Nacpan is a pretty relaxing choice with a few nice restaurants and bars around. You’ll have 24/7 access to the beach and can catch sunrise and sunset on this beautiful stretch of sand.
BEST CHEAP PLACES TO STAY IN EL NIDO COMPARISON TABLE
Here’s the comparison table of the best cheap hotels in El Nido.
| ACCOMMODATION | RATES |
| Top Hostels | |
| Spin Designer Hostel | $20 |
| Frendz Hostel El Nido | $24 |
| Happiness Hostel | $21 |
| Mad Monkey Hostel Nacpan Beach | $16 |
| Kame House Hostel | $18 |
| Top Cheap Hotels | |
| Cuna Hotel | $62 |
| Aqua Travel Lodge | $44 |
| The Cavern Pod Hotel & Specialty Cafe | $38 |
| One El Nido Suite | $53 |
| Top Cheap Resorts | |
| Seaside Hue Resort | $62 |
| El Nido Moringa Resort | $79 |
| Angel Nido Resort | $69 |
| Garden Bay Beach Resort El Nido | $61 |
| El Nido Bayview Hotel | $88 |
BEST CHEAP HOTELS IN EL NIDO
In this blog, I’ve selected the best cheap hotels in El Nido as well as a number of hostels and resorts that are much more affordable than you might think. Whether you want to stay in a hostel, a hotel, or a resort, El Nido has a ton of options.
BEST CHEAP RESORTS IN EL NIDO, PALAWAN
SEASIDE HUE RESORT
Seaside Hue Resort (Beachfront): A vibrant greeting from Seaside Hue Resort! Situated right in front of Nacpan Beach and near other famous spots, this lovely property offers colorful private cottages. Rooms have basic necessities for a comfortable stay all for a fair price. Guests can keep their luggage in their luggage storage.
This is a beachfront property with a beautiful garden. Personally, I enjoyed the full view of Nacpan Beach while sitting on their cute and colorful bean bags on the sand. Free parking is offered on-site but needs reservation. Wifi is not available here but need not worry as they have board games and puzzles to kill the time.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Seaside Hue Resort
EL NIDO MORINGA RESORT
El Nido Moringa Resort (Cleanliness): A property that is within walking distance to Corong Corong invites wanderlusts, nature lovers, and beach bums alike to stay in their nice facility. This resort houses 19 spacious rooms built with unparalleled comfort. The facade perfectly blends with the beautiful garden and pool.
The resort has a sun terrace or a large balcony overlooking the pool. It is a bit outside of El Nido and some famous attractions but think of the serenity you’ll get to enjoy being away from the hustle and bustle.
Motorbike rental is not hard to find just in the neighborhood. They serve good coffee and breakfast here is wonderful, too. Wifi is available free of charge but can only be accessed in public areas.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for El Nido Moringa Resort
ANGEL NIDO RESORT
Angel Nido Resort (Beachfront): Situated just right in front of the Caalan Beach is Angel Nido Resort. It is a simple haven, perfect for a laid-back life on the island. It is a bit far from the town but you’ll get to enjoy the scenic view if you take a walk going to and from the town center. The rooms have hot and cold showers, decent beds, air conditioners, and WIFI is a plus factor.
Food is good, but if you are up to something different, there are restaurants and bars nearby. The price is fair considering the location of the property. Beach bums will find the place perfect for a suntan or that insta-worthy angle as it doesn’t really get crowded. After a long day of tours, relax and refresh while sitting on the benches or swinging on the hammock facing the sea.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Angel Nido Resort
GARDEN BAY BEACH RESORT EL NIDO
Garden Bay Beach Resort El Nido (Beachfront): If privacy is what you are seeking, then you come across the right place. Garden Bay Beach Resort offers a humble abode to budget-conscious travelers. Although guests need a little walk to reach it, come to think of the exclusivity you’ll get to enjoy. The property is a tropical garden setting with its own sandy beach.
The rooms are pretty decent and are very spacious with an air conditioner. Wifi is free and the staff is extremely friendly and accommodating. Rejuvenate yourself by watching the beautiful sunset and inhaling that sultry smell while swinging on the hammock. There are also plenty of activities on offer such as island hopping, diving, and snorkeling.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Garden Bay Beach Resort El Nido
EL NIDO BAYVIEW HOTEL
El Nido Bayview Hotel (Excellent Location): El Nido Bayview Hotel is a tastefully furnished property. It offers true convenience and the island vibe. What makes this hotel special is its excellent location boasting panoramic views of the water and the vegetation of the island. Also, this property is close to the town center, famous beaches, and the longest zipline in El Nido.
I’d say it’s cheap considering all amenities and services on offer. Rooms have ample natural lighting and are complete with basic needs. Refresh yourself in the private swimming pool and enjoy the picturesque view of the bay.
Dine-in their beautiful restaurant and pamper yourself with their delicious cuisines. This is one of the most unique cheap hotels in El Nido.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for El Nido Bayview Hotel
BEST CHEAP HOSTELS IN EL NIDO, PALAWAN
SPIN DESIGNER HOSTEL
Spin Designer Hostel (Good Breakfast): Spin Designer Hostel is by far the best hostel in El Nido and is perfect for solo travelers and couples. It is located close to the hub of the town proper yet far enough to escape the noise. This trendy property provides a communal kitchen, barbecue facility, and cheap bunk beds. Guests are provided with free toiletries and towels.
Different activities which will give opportunities to meet friends are also offered here. Enjoy their movie nights with free popcorn, margarita night, and beer pong. If you don’t mind spending extra, join their barbecue, pub crawl, and walking tours.
The highlight is the breakfast; it’s healthy and delicious. Spin Designer is consistently rated one of the top best cheap accommodation options in El Nido for a reason!
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Spin Designer Hostel
Spin Designer Hostel
- Good Breakfast
- Perfect for solo travelers and couples
- Movie nights with free popcorn
FRENDZ HOSTEL EL NIDO
Frendz Hostel El Nido (Rooftop Pool): Frendz Hostel is conveniently located close to popular attractions such as Big and Small Lagoon and Mantiloc Shrine. This place houses a few types of rooms from family rooms to dormitory rooms.
The services and facilities are amazing and the place is very laid-back. The entire place is well-maintained and the rooms are spacious with air conditioners and comfortable bunk beds. Fun activities are waiting in their rooftop pool where beautiful sunsets, delicious food, and cool people meet.
Guests can play billiards and enjoy live entertainment on-site. If you are looking for fun, relaxation, and a memorable experience in one of the best cheap places to stay in El Nido, stay at Frendz Hostel.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Frendz Hostel El Nido
HAPPINESS HOSTEL
Happiness Hostel (Perfect Location): Happiness Hostel is one of the leading hostels for price-conscious travelers. At Happiness, guests can enjoy the lovely sea views from the balcony which is cool and insta-worthy.
Each bunk bed is very comfortable for a reasonable price. It also features a shared lounge where everybody gets to hang out and chill. Guests can either read books, play board games, or simply chill on their comfy hanging pod.
The bar and restaurant are the best spots for guests at night. This is a pet-friendly hostel so you can tag your fur baby here on a special arrangement. Aside from the comfort it gives, the place is also near famous attractions such as the Small Lagoon and Matinloc Shrine.
This hostel has one of the best vibes out of all of the cheap places to stay in El Nido that you will find in this blog post. I just love the decor and atmosphere here.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Happiness Hostel
MAD MONKEY HOSTEL NACPAN BEACH
Mad Monkey Hostel Nacpan Beach (Party Pick): Set on Nacpan Beach, Mad Monkey is another popular hostel in El Nido where the action takes place from dusk until dawn. Rooms types include a mixed dormitory, loft, and glamping tent with electric fan.
The food is awesome, especially the healthy smoothie bowl. That’s not all of it, there are plenty of activities are available such as volleyball, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and more. In addition, plenty of diving centers and island tours vendors are easy to find right outside the property so this will cut-off that time-consuming search.
The hostel is perfect for chill during the day and partying at night. You’ll never go mad at Mad Monkey Hostel.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Mad Monkey Hostel Nacpan Beach
KAME HOUSE HOSTEL
Kame House Hostel (Excellent Location): From a Dragon Ball Z-inspired house comes to a cute hostel. Kame House Hostel is nestled slightly outside from the town center but has easy access to everything especially the beach. This hostel is equipped with a cute outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a shared lounge, a bar, and private parking.
Rooms have decent beds fitted with air conditioners and patios overlooking the pool and luscious green surroundings. This is one of the cheapest hostels in town with services that go beyond the price. Several noted attractions like Papaya Beach and Marimegmeg Beach are no more than 2 km away. Scooter rental is also available here.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Kame House Hostel
BEST CHEAP HOTELS IN EL NIDO, PALAWAN
CUNA HOTEL
Cuna Hotel (Rooftop Pool): Situated in the heart of the action, Cuna Hotel is a boutique property that represents pure comfort. Cuna which is a local term for a “Baby Crib” is equipped with modern facilities and plenty of seating areas.
Each room has very comfy beds with a private bathroom fitted with a shower and free toiletries. Lovely mountain and sea views worthy of a pose can be admired from the rooms as well as the rooftop infinity. Enjoy the sumptuous meal and a flavorful mix of cocktails in the on-site bar.
The rate is pretty decent knowing that the location is great and within walking distance to the beach, restaurants, and shops. Cuna hotel is by far the most popular cheap hotels in El Nido.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Cuna Hotel
AQUA TRAVEL LODGE
Aqua Travel Lodge (Lovely View/Location): Aqua Travel Lodge is a lovely accommodation in an excellent location. Everything you need is within reach if you are looking for a good place to eat or drink, restaurants and pubs are just nearby. If you feel lazy going out then dine into their restaurant overlooking the fantastic sea view.
The staff are very attentive to your needs and are mostly willing to help you even with the tour bookings. Bike rentals are available here, too. Each room is standard and equipped with a flat-screen TV, a desk, a cabinet, and a bathroom with toiletries and a bidet.
Everything is neatly pressed all to provide your needs while on the island. It’s budget but it has a pretty sweet view and you are right next to the action. This is why it is a top pick for cheap hotels in El Nido.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Aqua Travel Lodge
THE CAVERN POD HOTEL & SPECIALTY CAFE
The Cavern Pod Hotel & Specialty Cafe (Good Atmosphere): The Cavern Pod Hotel & Specialty Cafe does not only boast a unique, comfortable, and pleasurable stay but also their special coffee. This spot provides all guests a pod on their own with a comfortable mattress.
The layout of the pod is so good for privacy with luggage compartments inside the room to secure the belongings safely. All the necessary things for a modern-day traveler are built-in in each pod for easy access.
Large changing rooms and bathrooms with a rain shower are super clean and well-maintained all for a decent cost. Location wise, it’s perfect as some great restaurants are open at night. If you are planning for a Tao Experience, then the office is super handy, only a 5 min walk away.
What are you waiting for? Head to the Cavern Pod Hotel & Specialty Cafe!
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for The Cavern Pod Hotel & Specialty Cafe
ONE EL NIDO SUITE
One El Nido Suite (Excellent Staff): One El Nido Suite is another affordable hotel in El Nido and is strategically located between Brgy Maligaya and Corong-Corong. This hotel offers clean rooms and modern facilities. Each room is fitted with a flat-screen TV, desk, closet, and safety deposit box. Hotel amenities include an elevator, restaurant, and lounging area.
The hotel also provides free breakfast and airport shuttle service. The staff also happily assist their guests with booking tours and rental services. With a good breakfast, staff, and location, all this and more are possible in One El Nido Suite. I definitely recommend this hotel!
Click here to check the current rates and availability for One El Nido Suite
I hope this guide about the best cheap hotels in El Nido helped you figure out which is the best area for you to stay in El Nido.
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