El Nido is one of the most popular travel destinations in the Philippines. With its world-class beaches and incredible island hopping, it’s easy to see why. Despite being known as one of the premier island destinations in the world, there are plenty of cheap hotels in El Nido offering a comfortable and affordable stay.
My personal favorites are Sea Cocoon for its great rooftop views and El Nido Bayview Hotel for its incredible rooftop infinity pool.
Best Cheap Hotels in El Nido
In this blog, I’ve listed the best cheap hotels in El Nido, along with my favorite hostels that offer private rooms. Whether you’re seeking a local homestay or a budget hotel, El Nido has plenty of value accommodations to make the most of your stay. Below, I’ve listed the best cheap hotels in El Nido by location and price.
QUICK PICKS: MY 3 FAVORITE CHEAP HOTELS IN EL NIDO
Don’t have time to read the whole guide? No worries! These are my three favorite cheap hotels in El Nido.
BEST CHEAP HOTELS IN EL NIDO COMPARISON TABLE
I’ve listed the 22 best cheap hotels and hostels in El Nido below by their nightly rates, high to low. These rates reflect the price for a private room during the high season (January – April). Rates are subject to change.
| ACCOMMODATION | RATES |
| Top Cheap Resorts | |
| El Nido Bayview Hotel | $205 |
| El Nido Moringa Resort | $170 |
| Isla Amara Resort | $150 |
| Last Frontier Beach Resort | $135 |
| Angel Nido Resort | $80 |
| RC Villas and Resorts | $70 |
| Corong Beach Resort | $65 |
| Top Cheap Hotels | |
| Sea Cocoon Hotel | $100 |
| One El Nido Suite | $100 |
| Bill Tourist Inn | $80 |
| South Anchorage Inn | $80 |
| Cuna Hotel | $75 |
| J Boutique Hotel El Nido | $75 |
| Bayview Country Inn El Nido | $75 |
| Chislyk Inn | $65 |
| Aqua Travel Lodge | $50 |
| Bale Cabugao Cottages Rental | $35 |
| Top Hostels | |
| Frendz Hostel El Nido | $115 |
| Outpost Beach Hostel | $65 |
| Mad Monkey Hostel Nacpan Beach | $60 |
| Spin Designer Hostel | $50 |
| Kame House Hostel | $45 |
Best Cheap Hotels in El Nido: Which Area to Choose
Before we get to individual hotels and resorts, I’ll explain the distinct neighborhoods in El Nido in which tourists usually stay. There’s El Nido Town proper, the stretch of beach encompassing Corong-Corong, Marimegmeg, and Las Cabanas to the south, and Lio Beach to the north. Even further north, is Nacpan Beach, a 40-minute drive from town. To help you choose which area to base in, here’s a quick round-up:
- El Nido Town: If you want to be in the middle of the action and want the best value, you should choose a budget hotel in El Nido Town. My favorites are Cuna Hotel and Sea Cocoon Hotel. The island hopping tours, ferries, and shared transfers all arrive and depart in town, and El Nido Airport is 15 minutes away, next to Lio Beach.
- Corong Corong Beach: If you want to watch incredible sunsets right from your hotel, you should choose a cheap hotel in El Nido’s Corong Corong Beach region. From here to Las Cabanas Beach, you can enjoy beautiful sunsets, chill nightlife, and a fun vibe. I recommend Corong Beach Resort for its great value and good location, 10 minutes south of El Nido Town.
- Lio Beach: If you’re looking for a peaceful beach getaway with some upscale accommodations, you should choose a hotel in El Nido’s Lio Beach area. However, the Lio Tourism Estate isn’t known for its budget accommodations. You’ll find the best prices in Lio at Lakwa Motel, 15 minutes north of El Nido Town, and 5 minutes from the airport.
- Nacpan Beach: If you want an even more remote setting for your beach holiday, you should choose a budget hotel in El Nido’s Nacpan Beach. Mad Monkey Hostel Nacpan Beach has some private room offerings at a great price, at the best beach in El Nido. However, it’s 40 minutes from downtown El Nido.
If you’d like to read a complete guide on where to stay in El Nido, you can read my complete guide.
Best Cheap Resorts in El Nido
Below, you’ll find the 6 best cheap resorts in El Nido. These properties offer the ideal blend of comfortable rooms, good amenities, convenient location, and great value. If you’re searching for a budget resort in El Nido that can tick all the boxes, these are the best options. If you want a complete guide, you can read my Best Resorts in El Nido article.
El Nido Bayview Hotel
El Nido Bayview Hotel is a gorgeous new resort in El Nido’s Corong Corong neighborhood. Featuring panoramic views of Bacuit Bay, the resort’s infinity pool is one of the best places in town to catch the sunset. Guests can choose from Forest View, Bayview, or Executive Suites with private pools. I recommend one of the ocean-facing rooms for sublime sunset views.
In terms of amenities, Bayview Hotel offers 2 swimming pools, a bar, a restaurant, and a complimentary breakfast. The pool sun loungers make for a great spot to unwind between island hopping tours, and the resort is aesthetic enough to be a destination of its own. It’s like a little slice of Mykonos in El Nido, and at an accessible price. If you’re looking for value accommodation in El Nido but are okay with spending a bit more, El Nido Bayview Hotel is a great choice.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Bayview Hotel
El Nido Moringa Resort
El Nido Moringa Resort is a boutique property within walking distance of Corong Corong Beach. The resort offers a large resort pool with lush tropical gardens and tall coconut trees. Guests can choose from luxury apartments that offer private terraces with outdoor seating and pool views. My favorite is the Jacuzzi Room for its large spa bath and spacious day bed.
The resort offers amenities including a large outdoor pool, a bar and restaurant, a spa, laundry services, and tour booking assistance. Past guests recommend Moringa’s Giovanni’s Pizza restaurant for its Italian dishes and the dreamy landscaping of the tropical gardens. If you don’t need to be right on the beach, Moringa Resort is one of the best value resorts in El Nido.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Moringa Resort
Isla Amara Resort
Isla Amara Resort is a great budget resort in El Nido’s Lio Tourism Estate. Set just steps from Lio Beach, Isla Amara offers a relaxing island getaway with comfortable rooms and an excellent location. Guests can choose from a variety of rooms, all offering garden views. I recommend booking the Celebrity Suite for an affordable and upscale stay.
Isla Amara features a pool, a bar and restaurant, airport transfers, and a very helpful front staff. The many restaurants and shops of Lio Beach are within a short walk, and El Nido airport and downtown are just a short tricycle ride away. With a peaceful atmosphere and a convenient location, Isla Amara is an ideal budget resort in El Nido.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Isla Amara Resort
Last Frontier Beach Resort
The Last Frontier Beach Resort is one of the top-rated cheap resorts in El Nido. This adults-only property features just 6 uniquely designed cottages with beautiful canopied beds and private gardens. I recommend booking a beachfront cottage for stunning sea views framed by swaying palms.
Amenities at the Last Frontier include a beachfront pool with sun loungers, and a great restaurant and bar. Massages, airport transfers, and tours can be arranged at an additional charge, and the staff can assist with recommendations for things to do and sights to see in the region. I visited the Last Frontier on my first trip to Palawan a decade ago and loved having sunset drinks at their bar. For me, it’s one of the best value resorts in El Nido!
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Last Frontier
Angel Nido Resort
Angel Nido Resort is one of the best cheap resorts in El Nido. Located right in front of Caalan Beach, the resort is a short walk from town, making it close enough to the action but far enough to ease into laid-back island life. Despite the great price, all rooms here have a private terrace with sea views, air-conditioning, and a private shower.
Guests at Angel Nido can book island hopping tours and excursions at the front desk, or even start a kayaking tour straight from the resort. A delicious breakfast is included with each stay, with lunch and dinner available at the Italian restaurant on-site. For guests seeking a romantic experience, private dinners can arranged on the beach. With all this on offer, Angel Nido Resort is one of the best cheap resorts in El Nido Town.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Angel Nido Resort
RC Villas and Resorts
RC Villas and Resorts is a secluded hilltop resort just above Marimegmeg Beach, 15 minutes south of El Nido Town. RC Villas is unique because it offers both dorm-style accommodations and private suites with stunning sea views. I recommend the premium dormitory room for groups of friends or the Top Villa for couples or solo travelers. Each room features an en-suite bath, mini-fridge, balcony, and a flat-screen TV.
Amenities at RC Villas include an outdoor infinity pool with amazing views, a restaurant and bar, and a shared lounge. There are also shaded sun loungers on the pool deck and an included breakfast. Guests rave about the great food, beautiful location, and excellent service. Considering all of the above, RC Villas is one of the best cheap resorts in El Nido.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for RC Villas
Corong Beach Resort
Corong Beach Resort is a 2-star resort on Corong Corong Beach. This cozy property features beachfront bungalows with beautiful views of Bacuit Bay. Each room offers a private patio, a desk, and a private bath. There’s a restaurant on-site serving Asian cuisine with a breakfast available to purchase.
The front desk can also assist with making tour bookings and recommendations. Guests can enjoy the nightlife of Corong Beach within a short walk, while also enjoying their quiet corner of the beach. With its beachfront location and accessible prices, it’s one of the best cheap resorts in El Nido.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Corong Beach Resort
Best Cheap Hotels in El Nido
The following are the 10 best cheap hotels in El Nido. These budget accommodations don’t compromise on quality or comfort and offer convenient access to the best that El Nido has to offer. I’ve stayed in several of these hotels during my visits to El Nido and can confirm they’re great value options!
Sea Cocoon Hotel
Sea Cocoon Hotel is my favorite cheap hotel in El Nido. I stayed here for the first time in 2015, and since then, the hotel has been renovated and continues to impress guests with its great value and service. The hotel features 44 cozy rooms, with some offering beautiful views of Bacuit Bay or the mountains. Guests can choose from standard twin rooms or family rooms with space to accommodate 4. Each room offers air conditioning, a private bathroom, and a complimentary breakfast.
Amenities at Sea Cocoon include a beautiful rooftop restaurant and an outdoor pool. A highlight is the delicious complimentary breakfast served with sea views. Guests also note the convenient location, warm hospitality, and great value that Sea Cocoon offers. For guests seeking great budget accommodation in El Nido, Sea Cocoon is a wonderful choice.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Sea Cocoon Hotel
One El Nido Suite
One El Nido Suite is an affordable hotel in El Nido conveniently located between El Nido Town and Corong Corong. This hotel offers clean rooms and modern facilities. Each room offers a flat-screen TV, desk, and toiletries. I love the Deluxe Premier Room for its gorgeous views.
Hotel amenities include a restaurant with breakfast service, an airport shuttle, and a lounge. The warm reception can facilitate tour bookings and motorbike rentals. With a convenient location and clean and comfortable rooms, One El Nido Suite is one of the most popular cheap hotels in El Nido.
Click here to check the current rates and availability for One El Nido Suite
Bill Tourist Inn
Bill Tourist Inn is one of the best budget hotels in El Nido. Located in El Nido Town, the inn features spacious, modern rooms, each with a balcony and seating area. I recommend the Deluxe Room with Private Balcony for its gorgeous mountain views.
Amenities at Bill’s include an outdoor pool, a restaurant with free breakfast, a 24-hour front desk, and a free airport shuttle. Guests rave about the outstanding service and hospitality, and the convenient location close to all the shops and restaurants in town. If you’re looking for great value, Bill Tourist Inn is one of the best cheap hotels in El Nido.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Bill Tourist Inn
South Anchorage Inn
South Anchorage Inn is among the top-rated cheap hotels in El Nido. This budget accommodation is located in the center of El Nido town, making it extremely convenient to the ferry port, island hopping tour pickup point, and all the bars and restaurants downtown. Guests can choose from standard, triple, or family rooms, with my favorite being the Queen Room with Balcony. With terrace views of the limestone cliffs, it’s easy to see why.
In terms of amenities, South Anchorage Inn provides a free breakfast, with continental and Asian options. The staff can also assist in making tour bookings, arranging transfers, and recommending great restaurants in town. For a peaceful stay in the center of the action, South Anchorage Inn is one of the best cheap hotels in El Nido.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for South Anchorage
Cuna Hotel
Cuna Hotel is one of the nicer cheap hotels in El Nido. Located in town proper, it’s conveniently located to the beach, shops, and restaurants, while far enough away to avoid noise. The hotel offers budget, standard, and deluxe rooms in double, triple, or queen configurations. I recommend paying a bit extra for the deluxe rooms given the additional space.
Cuna Hotel’s greatest amenity is its rooftop bar and restaurant. The rooftop features sweeping views of the Bay and Cadlao Island to one side, and the towering limestone cliffs of El Nido on the other. There’s also a rooftop infinity pool, a 24-hour front desk, and a breakfast available to add on. Given its great value and beautiful rooftop, I rank Cuna Hotel among the best cheap hotels in El Nido. A large group of my family friends stayed here during my wedding in El Nido and they loved their stay.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Cuna Hotel
J Boutique Hotel El Nido
J Boutique Hotel El Nido is one of the newer cheap hotels in El Nido. The budget hotel is located on the edge of El Nido town, on a less busy street. It’s still walkable to all the attractions in town though, and makes for an excellent base for your island-hopping adventures. The hotel is unique in that it offers several bunk-bed-style rooms for families and groups. With rooms that can sleep 6, its ideal for those traveling in groups.
Amenities at J Boutique include an airport shuttle and a 24-hour front desk. The hotel’s greatest amenity though, is its helpful staff and convenient location to everything El Nido Town has to offer. If you want great value and clean and comfortable rooms, J Boutique is one of the best cheap hotels in El Nido.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for J Boutique Hotel
Bayview Country Inn El Nido
Bayview Country Inn El Nido is a great choice for families in search of cheap hotels in El Nido. This laid-back Inn is located on the main road behind Corong Corong Beach. It’s a short walk from the beach, with plenty of tricycle traffic to provide transport back to town proper. Guests can choose from standard rooms, triple rooms, or my favorite, the Family Suite. Three of my friends booked this spacious lofted suite for my wedding in El Nido and loved it.
Amenities at the Inn include a restaurant with a nice breakfast, an airport shuttle, room service, and free parking onsite. The staff are extremely accommodating and friendly and can assist with tour bookings. The Inn’s close location to the best sunset beach in town is another bonus. For a cost-effective stay, Bayview Country Inn is one of the best cheap hotels in El Nido.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Bayview Country Inn
Chislyk Inn
Chislyk Inn is one of the most popular cheap hotels in El Nido. Located on a gorgeous stretch of beach right next to town, Chisylyk offers cozy accommodations and warm hospitality. Guests can choose from a variety of rooms in modern and native styles. Some rooms offer private balconies, but I prefer the ground-floor rooms for their direct beach access.
The amenities at Chisylk are simple, but its location is world-class. Guests also rave about the great service and hospitality from the family who run the inn. If you’re looking for a convenient base in El Nido with a sensational view, this is one of the best cheap hotels in El Nido.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Chislyk Inn
Aqua Travel Lodge
Aqua Travel Lodge is a great cheap hotel in El Nido that’s conveniently placed on the main beach in town. Everything is within reach, be it a great bar, restaurant, or tour desk. The hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms at a great rate, making it one of the best value accommodations in El Nido. I recommend booking a Double or Queen Room with Sea View.
Amenities at the lodge include its beachfront location, a restaurant with breakfast service, an airport shuttle, and a 24-hour front desk. The in-house restaurant features panoramic views of the waterfront. Not bad, if you ask me. Considering its solid value and beachfront location, Aqua Travel Lodge is one of the most booked cheap hotels in El Nido.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Aqua Travel Lodge
Bale Cabugao Cottages Rental
Bale Cabugao Cottages is a charming and rustic budget accommodation in El Nido. The property is perched on a hill overlooking El Nido Town proper and the Bay, providing sweeping sea and mountain views. Guests can choose between budget rooms and double rooms with private terraces. I recommend upgrading to the terraced rooms for beautiful indoor/outdoor living.
This rustic accommodation offers a lovely breakfast and WiFi in common areas. The staff are extremely friendly and helpful and can assist with arranging transfers and tour bookings. One thing to note is that the cottages are reached via a steep flight of stairs, so this may not be suitable for some travelers.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for BaleCabugao
Best Cheap Accommodations in El Nido: Hostels
The following are the best cheap hostels in El Nido that offer private rooms. These can be a great way to meet new people while traveling without staying in dorms. I recommend this to solo travelers or couples who want a great vibe while still maintaining their privacy.
Frendz Hostel
If you’re traveling to El Nido on a budget, Frendz Hostel offers beautiful rooms in El Nido town. Boasting a rooftop pool with sea views, this hostel is known for being a great place to meet new people while enjoying a comfortable and affordable stay. Guests can book dormitory rooms or private rooms with two full beds and a private bathroom. The hostel features a clean, modern aesthetic, with a trendy lounge and multi-story foyer.
Guests at Frendz can enjoy access to the beautiful rooftop pool, a restaurant & bar, in-house tours, and games facilities. Best of all, the hostel has a convenient, central location, and an exceptional staff. For a great vibe at a friendly price, Frendz is one of the best budget accommodations in El Nido.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Frendz Hostel
Outpost Beach Hostel
If you’re looking for a cheap hotel in El Nido, but also down to make new friends and enjoy a fun vibe, Outpost Beach Hostel is your best bet. This fun and social hostel offers both private rooms and dormitory-style accommodations equipped with air-conditioning units and fans. They make for a comfortable base for your island-hopping adventures.
Outpost features amenities like a lively restaurant and beach bar, as well as a cozy second-floor lounge for a more chill vibe. The bar shuts by 11:00 pm every night, so getting a good night’s rest isn’t an issue. Another highlight is the location. Outpost enjoys some of the best sunsets in town, and it’s one of the best cheap accommodations in El Nido.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Outpost
Mad Monkey Hostel
Mad Monkey Hostel is the best budget accommodation in El Nido’s Nacpan Beach. At 45 minutes away from downtown El Nido, Mad Monkey offers a much more relaxed pace of life. Travelers can enjoy free welcome drinks, and sunset sessions can always be expected. As for rooms, guests can choose from standard 6-bed dorms to private lofted rooms.
Mad Monkey features all the amenities you’d expect at a great hostel. There are tours available to visit all the sights in El Nido, great casual dining, and a schedule of activities to get to know fellow travelers. A funny highlight is their Thursday night Bar Olympics… do you have what it takes? For all these reasons, Mad Monkey is a great alternative to a cheap hotel in El Nido.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Mad Monkey Hostel
Spin Designer Hotel
Spin Designer Hostel is another great alternative to a cheap hotel in El Nido. This upscale hostel is located close enough to the center of town proper, yet far enough away to escape the noise. This trendy property offers both private rooms and mixed and female dormitories. Guests are provided with free toiletries and towels.
The main draw of Spin is its community-focused offerings. The hostel provides nightly entertainment perfect for connecting with other guests. Examples include movie nights, margarita nights, and pub crawls. The hostel also offers a delicious breakfast and clean facilities. With all this on offer at an affordable rate, it’s one of the best budget hotels in El Nido.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Spin Designer Hostel
Kame House Hostel
Kame House Hostel is another affordable accommodation in El Nido. This Japanese anime-inspired hostel is set in the Corong Corong neighborhood. At just a one-minute walk from the beach, it’s a great spot to catch tricycles on the main road as well as sunsets on the beach. The hostel is small, but well-maintained, featuring both private rooms and dormitories. Each room offers air conditioning and a patio.
As for amenities, Kame House has a great outdoor pool, garden, and bar. There’s also a shared lounge for guests to hang out and play board games and cards. Scooter rentals are also available for a reasonable price. With its nice outdoor hangout area and clean rooms, Kame House is a great alternative to cheap hotels in El Nido.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Kame House Hostel
Conclusion: Best Cheap Hotels in El Nido
That’s it for my complete guide to the best cheap hotels in El Nido! I hope you were able to find the best value accommodation for your upcoming trip! And if you weren’t, you can try my Best Hostels in El Nido guide to find more great value options. As always, safe travels!
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.
