Pinagbuyutan Island is probably my favorite island in El Nido. It has huge towering cliffs that shoot straight down dramatically over the small stretches of the beach below. There’s nothing more than a shack and coconut trees on this desolate island. When we rolled in there was just one local selling coconuts and no other tourists. It stayed that way for most of our visit.
It’s a small, uninhabited island located in the Bacuit Archipelago of El Nido, Palawan, Philippines. The island is known for its striking limestone karst formations, which rise dramatically from the sea, making it incredibly picturesque and popular spot for photography. The island’s white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters make it ideal for various water activities, such as snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking. The surrounding coral reefs are rich in marine biodiversity, attracting divers and snorkelers. Pinagbuyutan is part of the protected area of the El Nido-Taytay Managed Resource Protected Area, ensuring its natural beauty remains preserved.
Tour B, in El Nido 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.
TOUR B EL NIDO ISLAND HOPPING ITINERARY
I was lucky enough to experience Tour A, Tour B and Tour C. 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.
The El Nido Tour B itinerary is designed for adventurers who love exploring hidden gems and unique coastal features. Here’s what you can typically expect:
- Snake Island – Famous for its long, curving sandbar that connects the island to the mainland at low tide. It’s a perfect spot for walking, taking photos, and enjoying panoramic views.
- Cudugnon Cave – A historical and cultural site where you can explore a fascinating cave once used as a hideout by locals during World War II.
- Cathedral Cave – A majestic limestone cave with towering ceilings, resembling a cathedral. It’s often viewed from the boat due to the narrow entrance.
- Pinagbuyutan Island – A peaceful island with white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning limestone formations, perfect for relaxing or snorkeling.
- Pangalusian or Lagen Beach (depending on the tour operator) – A serene beach stop to end the day with some quiet time and breathtaking scenery.
WHERE IS PINAGBUYUTAN ISLAND
Pinagbuyutan Island isn’t too far from El Nido Proper and is part of Tour B. It takes about 30-minutes in the outrigger boat to reach Pinagbuyutan Island. You can also get a great view of Pinagbuyutan Island from Dolarob Beach. In fact, from Dolarog Beach you could be close enough to take photos and fly your drone over Pinagbuyutan if you own one.
If you want to check out the full review of my Tour B Experience you can click here. I’ve pinned the location for Pinagbuyutan Island below in case you are interested in how far it is from the other island destinations or El Nido Town Proper.
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
PINAGBUYUTAN ISLAND
Pinagbuyutan Island is probably my favorite island in El Nido. It has huge towering cliffs that shoot straight down dramatically over the small stretches of the beach below. There’s nothing more than a shack and coconut trees on this desolate island.
We walked around the edges of the island in between the tall grass and scattered palms. This is how island hopping is supposed to be. Quiet, relaxing and away from the crowds. Luckily for us, we were in no rush and actually spent several hours at Pinagbuyutan Island. There are also some great snorkeling spots just off the shore with beautiful reefs waiting to be discovered below the surface. Pinagbuyutan is the highlight of Tour B in my opinion.
On the left-hand side of the island, there are so many palms we actually started to get nervous sitting under them. After all more people die from coconuts each year than sharks. Fact! This part of the island is called Ipil Beach and is just pristine.
There are also some great snorkeling spots just off the shore with beautiful reefs waiting to be discovered below the surface.
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 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.
