The Secret Lagoon In El Nido: A Complete Guide

The Secret Lagoon is one of the most iconic attractions in El Nido, Palawan. Nestled within the dramatic limestone cliffs of Miniloc Island, this lagoon has a magical atmosphere and stunning beaches nearby. It is typically included in El Nido’s Tour A, which highlights some of the best spots in Bacuit Bay.

SECRET LAGOON IN EL NIDO

Secret Lagoon is part of Tour A in El Nido. I was lucky enough to experience Tour A, Tour B and Tour C and Tour D. Tour A was incredible with a good mixture of epic limestone cliffs, snorkeling and of course the Secret Lagoon.

EL NIDO ISLAND HOPPING TOUR A: Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Miniloc Island, Shimizu Island, Snorkel with turtles at Seven Commando Beach, and a BBQ Lunch

MY EXPERIENCE AT SECRET LAGOON

Secret Lagoon was part of our Tour A package and is a place I’ve been lucky enough to visit several times. As the boat slowly pulls in to the cove, you will be blown away by the intense scale of the limestone cliffs, which tower over the beach. I mean absolutely tower.

The tiny patches of sand are completely dwarfed by the huge cliffs which must be hundreds of feet high. Trees are scattered throughout the incredibly sharp cliffs giving a great contrast to the greys of the karst limestone.

From the boat, you cannot see the Secret Lagoon, which is about the only part of this lagoon that is much of a secret. It’s a pretty popular spot and there is often a line to get inside. Your boat will dock and you will walk along the reef (kind of unfortunate parking spot and setup) towards the beach and then head over to the Secret Lagoon entrance. It’s just a small hole in the limestone wall and when you squeeze through it opens up into a small pool of water completely surrounded by the cliffs.

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Once inside, visitors are greeted by a tranquil pool of shallow, emerald-green water surrounded by towering limestone walls. The ambiance is serene and otherworldly, with the sunlight casting enchanting reflections on the rock walls and water.

While it is an amazing natural formation, there really isn’t much to do inside and often it is just a big group of strangers standing around in the knee-deep water looking at each other. Enjoy it, appreciate it, look around and then head out to the beach because it is a pretty cool strip of sand lined with coconut trees and spots to explore. I always spend more time on the beach than in the Secret Lagoon, making the most of my time at what is seriously one of the most epic beaches in El Nido.

From the air, you can really see how little the Secret Lagoon is and just how big these cliffs are. Flying my drone on my second visit to Secret Lagoon was incredible and one of my favorite spots I’ve ever flown. It really gives you a unique perspective of the beach and the entire collection of limestone cliffs.

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 SECRET LAGOON

Secret Lagoon is hidden next to a small beach on the south side of Miniloc Island. The cliffs behind the beach are truly remarkable and for me, even more, impressive than the lagoon. It isn’t too far from El Nido Town but you will need to be on a tour boat to get out there. I’ve pinned it on the map below in case you want to see what other attractions are nearby.

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.

H Hotel El Nido - Vegan Friendly Hotel Managed by H Hospitality Group

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.