Seven Commandos Beach, located on the main island of El Nido, Palawan, is one of the most popular destinations for tourists exploring Bacuit Bay. Known for its pristine white sand, turquoise waters, and laid-back atmosphere, the beach offers both natural beauty and a touch of convenience, making it a must-visit spot. Coconut trees. Coconut trees line the beach behind the white sand and you can choose to snorkel, explore or sip on a coconut in the sun.
The name “Seven Commandos” is said to come from a group of seven Japanese soldiers who reportedly stayed on the island after World War II. While much of this history remains anecdotal, the name has become a unique identifier for the beach.
SEVEN COMMANDOS BEACH
Seven Commandos Beach is part of Island Hopping Tour A in El Nido, which is the most popular tour. Everyone wants to see the Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon. I don’t blame them they are both epic.
EL NIDO ISLAND HOPPING TOUR A: Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Miniloc Island, Shimizu Island, Snorkel with turtles at Seven Commando Beach, and aBBQ Lunch
MY EXPERIENCE AT SEVEN COMMANDOS BEACH
Seven Commandos Beach is usually the first stop on Tour A. There are always lots of boats here but it is quite a big stretch of beach. The snorkeling down the far end of the beach is quite nice and many people get straight into some underwater exploration on the first stop of Tour A.
On land, coconut trees lined Seven Commandos beach and we, of course, sipped on a few after a quick snorkel. Our boat docked here for a 45-minute chill/exploration session. Many people snorkeled but we just hung out on the beach and had a swim.
There is a really cool swing, or at least there was in 2018 that generates a bit of a line as people get their photos and have a play on. I also headed back inland and towards the end of the beach to explore. The rocks in El Nido are incredibly sharp, and Seven Commandos Beach was no exception. Wear shoes if you are planning on exploring in caves and on rocks like us.
On my second visit to Seven Commandos Beach, I also did a beach clean-up. El Nido is making great changes but trash on the islands still remains prevalent.
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
WHAT TO EXPECT AT SEVEN COMMANDOS BEACH
Seven Commandos Beach, located on the main island of El Nido, Palawan, is one of the most popular destinations for tourists exploring Bacuit Bay. Known for its pristine white sand, turquoise waters, and laid-back atmosphere, the beach offers both natural beauty and a touch of convenience, making it a must-visit spot.
- White Sand: The beach boasts fine, powdery white sand, perfect for lounging and beach activities.
- Crystal-Clear Waters: The turquoise waters are calm and shallow, making them ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
- Lush Greenery: The beach is lined with coconut palms and backed by towering limestone cliffs, creating a tropical paradise feel.
- Sunsets: If you end your island hopping here, you might be in luck. The west-facing beach offers stunning sunset views, with vibrant hues painting the sky as the day ends.
- Rustic Charm: Despite being a popular destination, Seven Commandos Beach maintains a serene atmosphere. It has basic amenities like beach huts, small bars, and a few shops offering snacks and refreshments.
- Convenience: It is closer to El Nido town than many other island-hopping stops, making it easily accessible.
TIPS FOR VISITING SEVEN COMMANDOS BEACH
- Best Time to Visit: The dry season (November to May) offers the clearest skies and calmest waters. Morning visits are quieter, as the beach can become crowded in the afternoon.
- What to Bring: Swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a waterproof bag. A small amount of cash is handy for buying refreshments or renting gear.
- Respect the Environment: Avoid leaving trash on the beach and refrain from disturbing marine life while snorkeling.
WHERE IS SEVEN COMMANDOS BEACH
Seven Commandos Beach is just around the corner from El Nido Proper Town and will likely be the first stop on your Tour A island hopping tour.
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.
