Snake Island is one of the most unique spots in El Nido as it connects the mainland to an island at low tide while at low tide it is a sandbar two feet under water. Officially known as Vigan Island, Snake Island has become one of the top locations to visit in El Nido. The island’s name was unofficially changed from Vigan Island to Snake Island due to the unique ‘S’ shape of the sandbar. It’s best to visit at low tide when the sandbar is most exposed and can be explored by foot.
Snake Island is part of the Tour B itinerary, 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 Tour C.
To book the El Nido Island Hopping Tour B you can click that previous link to check the availability and book online in advance. That link is to a local Philippines booking agency that has a great reputation. The Tour B itinerary includes Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, Cudugnon Cave, and a BBQ Lunch. If you want more information about the entire itinerary you can read my personal review about My personal review of El Nido Island Hopping Tour B.
SNAKE ISLAND IN EL NIDO
Snake Island is an epic spot, one I didn’t even know about until we arrived. So often in El Nido, all of the focus is on lagoons and secret beaches of Island Hopping Tour A & Island Hopping Tour C that anything else is almost pushed to the side. Anywhere else in the world and Snake Island would be the number one attraction.
This beautiful island arcs out into a sandbar that connects to the mainland at low tide. This area reminded me of a mini French Polynesia with the steep, green hills as a backdrop to the cerulean blue water.
Don’t worry there are no snakes here. The island used to be called Vigan Island but because of the shape of the tail and well ‘marketability’, it received a new name. Now it is one of the popular attractions in El Nido and one of the reasons people choose Tour B.
I really enjoyed this spot and flying the drone here was so much fun with something to look at in all directions. Snake Island was a great surprise and not a spot I had seen before so it was great to be exploring something a little different in El Nido on Tour B.
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
ACTIVITIES AT SNAKE ISLAND
- Snorkeling: The shallow reefs around the sandbar are great for spotting marine life.
- Kayaking: Exploring the nearby waters and mangroves.
- Photography: The S-shaped sandbar, especially during low tide, is incredibly photogenic.
- Hiking: Ascend the hill for a panoramic view of the island and surrounding waters.
WHERE IS SNAKE ISLAND ISLAND
Snake Island isn’t too far from El Nido Proper and is part of Tour B. It takes about 30-40 minutes in the outrigger boat to reach Snake Island. It is one of the furthest attractions on the island hopping tours but still not too far at all and it means you are far, far away from the crowds of the lagoons and regular attractions on Island Hopping Tour A and Island Hopping Tour C.
If you want to check out the full review of my Tour B Experience you can click here. I’ve pinned the location for Snake Island below in case you are interested in how far it is from the other island destinations or El Nido Town Proper.
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.
