El Nido is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines. With turquoise lagoons, limestone cliffs, and pristine beaches, it’s easy to see why! However, there are several different neighborhoods in town, and it can be difficult to know where to stay in El Nido for your personal travel needs. Hopefully, you’ll be able to find the best places to stay in El Nido using the guide below!
My favorite places to stay in El Nido are Piece Lio for its gorgeous lofted rooms and Morgan Villas for its incredible sunset views.
Where to Stay in El Nido: 20 Best Hotels
If you’re wondering where to stay in El Nido, I’ve explained the different areas below. I’ve included a breakdown of the pros and cons of staying in each region, followed by the best luxury, value, and budget accommodations in each area. Regardless of where you stay, you’ll be sure to enjoy the gorgeous landscapes and warm hospitality of El Nido!
QUICK PICKS: 3 BEST PLACES TO STAY IN EL NIDO
Don’t have time to read the whole guide? No worries! These are my top three picks for where to stay in El Nido.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN EL NIDO COMPARISON TABLE
I’ve listed the 20 best places to stay in El Nido below by their nightly rates, high to low. These rates reflect the price for a room during the high season (January – April). Some of these prices are on an all-inclusive basis. Rates are subject to change.
Where to Stay in El Nido: Which Region is Best for You
El Nido has many accommodation options spread across its different neighborhoods. To help you choose where to stay in El Nido, I’ve outlined the distinct areas below, along with the best budget, luxury, and value accommodations in each region.
Here’s a quick summary:
- El Nido Town: If you want to be in the middle of the action or are seeking budget accommodations, the best place to stay in El Nido is in El Nido Town. My favorite budget hotel in town is Cuna Hotel.
- Corong Corong Beach: If you want to watch incredible sunsets right from your hotel, the best place to stay in El Nido is on Corong Corong Beach. From here to Las Cabanas Beach, you can enjoy beautiful sunsets, chill nightlife, and a fun vibe. I recommend Panorama and its great beach club.
- Lio Beach: If you’re looking for a peaceful beach getaway with some upscale accommodations, the best place to stay in El Nido is Lio Beach. I love Piece Lio for its gorgeous lofted rooms and quiet setting.
- Nacpan Beach: If you want an even more remote setting for your beach holiday, the best place to stay in El Nido is Nacpan Beach. ANGKLA Boutique Resort is the most Insta-worthy new resort in Nacpan, 40 minutes north of El Nido Town.
- Private Islands: If you’re wondering where to stay in El Nido for a truly luxurious beach holiday, the private islands of El Nido are the best places to stay in El Nido. Cauayan Island Resort is a great boutique option in El Nido Bay.
Where to Stay in El Nido: Town Proper
El Nido Town proper is the main hub of the region. This is where the island hopping tours and local ferries depart from, with El Nido airport just 15 minutes away. Town proper also offers a great selection of shops, restaurants, tour desks, accommodations, and laid-back nightlife.
Pros:
- Convenient for island hopping, local ferries, and shared van transfers from Puerto Princesa
- Many shops, restaurants, tour operators, and bars
- Greatest variety of mid-range and budget accommodations
- Close to Lio Airport (15 minutes)
Cons:
- Can be very noisy/ busy
- Not the cleanest part of El Nido
- The beach is okay
If this sounds like what you’re looking for, the following are my top picks for where to stay in El Nido Town proper, ranging from upscale to budget accommodations.
Morgan Villas
Morgan Villas is a boutique 4-star hotel just 5 minutes from El Nido Beach. Located on the tip of Caalan Beach, the hotel enjoys panoramic views of El Nido Bay and Cadlao Island. With only 7 spacious, elegantly designed rooms, guests can be assured of a relaxing getaway just a stone’s throw from town. For the ultimate indulgence, I recommend booking a Villa with Private Pool.
Amenities at Morgan Villas include a great sunset bar, a delicious complimentary breakfast, and complimentary activities like paddleboarding and fishing. Guests love the beachfront swings, the dedicated service, and the cute beach buggy. With a world-class location and exquisite suites, Morgan Villas is one of the best places to stay in El Nido Town proper.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Morgan Villas
The Funny Lion – El Nido
If you’re wondering where to stay in El Nido for comfort and convenience, The Funny Lion El Nido is the answer. This centrally located 4-star hotel is in a quiet corner of El Nido Town. With 50 well-designed rooms and a great vibe, it’s the ideal place to unwind in between island hopping tours and days in the sun. Each room features comfortable furnishings and a private terrace with pool views. Coffee and tea is also available in each room.
Amenities at the Funny Lion include a resort pool, a fun bar and restaurant, and a private beach area for use by hotel guests. A paid shuttle service is available, as well as a 24-hour front desk to assist with any needs. The hotel is also within walking distance to El Nido Town’s many shops and restaurants. Given its plush rooms and central location, The Funny Lion is one of the best places to stay in El Nido Town for a mix of luxury and convenience.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for The Funny Lion
Cadlao Resort and Restaurant
Cadlao Resort and Restaurant is a 3-star hotel just outside of El Nido Town proper. This beachfront resort offers 37 rooms, some with incredible views of Cadlao Island and El Nido Bay. I loved staying here and feel it’s one of the best value resorts in town. I recommend the Seafront Cottage or Poolside Family Cottage for the best mix of spacious interiors and incredible views.
The property features 3 swimming pools, a spa, a boutique shop, and one of the best restaurants in town. They also offer free tricycle rides into town, although you can easily walk. My favorite feature of this resort is the infinity pool with stunning views of Cadlao Island. All that paired with genuine hospitality makes Cadlao Resort one of the best places to stay in El Nido.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Cadlao Resort
Sea Cocoon Hotel
Sea Cocoon Hotel is my favorite mid-range 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 wondering where to stay in El Nido for the best value, you can’t go wrong with the Sea Cocoon Hotel!
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Sea Cocoon Hotel
Angel Nido Resort
Angel Nido Resort is a great value pick right in front of Caalan Beach in El Nido. 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 places to stay in El Nido Town for those seeking great value.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Angel Nido Resort
Frendz Hostel
If you’re wondering where to stay in El Nido on a budget, Frendz Hostel is the top-rated budget accommodation in El Nido. 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 places to stay in El Nido on a budget.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Frendz Hostel
Spin Designer Hotel
Spin Designer Hostel is another one of the best budget accommodations in El Nido. It’s located close to the hub 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 places to stay in El Nido for solo travelers.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Spin Designer Hostel
Where to Stay in El Nido: Corong Corong Beach
For this article, I’ve lumped together the sandy stretch from Corong Corong Beach to Las Cabanas Beach (it’s only a 10-minute tricycle ride from one end to the other). Located just a few minutes south of town proper, this strip makes up one of the best places to stay in El Nido. These beaches are known for their incredible sunsets, boutique hotels, and fun nightlife. Personally, this is my favorite place to stay in El Nido when I visit.
Pros:
- Best sunsets in El Nido
- Many beach bars with a good atmosphere
- Variety of accommodations and restaurants
- 10 – 15 minutes from town proper
- Less crowded/ busy than town proper
Cons:
- Not all hotels have road access
- Some beaches aren’t swimmable
- Further from main island hopping departure point
If this sounds like what you’re looking for, the following are the best places to stay in El Nido’s Corong Corong Beach.
Vellago Resort
Wondering where to stay in El Nido for a romantic beach getaway? Vellago Resort is the perfect answer. This luxurious boutique hotel is nestled at the end of Seven Commando Beach, one of the most picturesque spots in El Nido. Boasting fine, powdery sand, turquoise waters, and countless coconut trees, Vellago is one of the best places to stay in El Nido for an idyllic beach holiday.
This romantic retreat offers 6 unique rooms, each offering a private patio with seating. I love the Deluxe Suite with Sea View for its open-air living and incredible sunset views. Amenities at Vellago include romantic dinners, complimentary kayaks, snorkeling gear, and an on-site bar. For a truly romantic getaway, Vellago Resort is the perfect choice.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Vellago Resort
Panorama Beach Club & Resort
Panorama is a boutique resort set between Corong Corong and Maremigmeg Beach. This aesthetic property features thatched roof cottages and lush tropical gardens. I love the floor-to-ceiling windows and hand-crafted furnishings in their deluxe suites.
This Insta-worthy resort features amenities like a private beach area, a resort pool, and a great restaurant and beach club. Its recent refresh only adds to the great atmosphere, and it’s an ideal place for couples and groups of friends to enjoy a laid-back beach holiday in style. With all this and more, it’s one of the best places to stay in El Nido for a tropical beach vibe.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Panorama Resort
Last Frontier Beach Resort
For adults wondering where to stay in El Nido for a kids-free getaway, the Last Frontier Beach Resort is the ideal choice. 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 places to stay in El Nido!
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Last Frontier
Corong Beach Resort
Corong Beach Resort is the best place to stay in El Nido’s Corong Corong Beach for great value. This 2-star resort 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. Given its great value offerings and peaceful setting, it’s one of the best places to stay in El Nido on a budget.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Corong Beach Resort
Outpost Beach Hostel
For those wondering where to stay in El Nido for great sunsets at a good price, 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 places to stay in El Nido for epic sunset drinks.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Outpost
Where to Stay in El Nido: Lio Beach
If you’re wondering where to stay in El Nido for both convenience and quiet, Lio Beach is your best bet. Lio Tourism Estate is home to upscale hotels with a variety of dining options along the beach. It’s located just 15 minutes north of El Nido town proper, next to Lio Airport. Imagine having a 3-minute transit from the airport to your beachfront hotel! I can also vouch for Lio Beach as I got married here!
Pros:
- Expansive beach with a variety of bars and restaurants
- Higher-end accommodations
- 15 minutes from town proper & 5 minutes from the airport
- Less crowded/ busy than town proper
Cons:
- More expensive than El Nido town proper (few budget options)
- Further from the public island hopping departure point
- Can have issues with sandflies
If this sounds like what you’re looking for, the following are the best places to stay in El Nido’s Lio Beach.
Piece Lio
Piece Lio is the newest five-star resort in El Nido. Located just steps from Lio Beach, this boutique resort boasts elevated design and gorgeous interiors. The lofted rooms in particular are my favorite, with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over tropical gardens. The resort itself is located next to Lio Beach, within walking distance of the restaurants and shops along the beach.
The facilities at Piece Lio include a beautiful outdoor pool and garden, as well as a great restaurant on site. Transfers to and from the airport (a 5-minute drive) are included with your stay. Finally, this new resort has rave reviews, making it a solid contender for the best place to stay in El Nido.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Piece Lio
Lakwa Motel
Lakwa Motel is the best value accommodation near Lio Beach. Located within the tranquil gardens of Lio Tourism Estate, this motel is just 5 minutes from the airport and a 7-minute walk to the beach, making it one of the best places to stay in El Nido for both quiet and convenience. The property offers private double rooms with ensuite baths and toiletries. Guests can enjoy newly furnished rooms and comfortable, new beds.
Lakwa Motel offers a handful of thoughtful amenities. Guests can enjoy the best coffee in town at the onsite cafe, make use of the concierge and guest services, and stay within walking distance of the restaurants and entertainment of Lio Beach. Lakwa also offers several dirt bike tours to iconic sites in northern Palawan, a unique way to see the region outside of island hopping tours. Considering its clean and comfortable new rooms and convenient location, Lakwa Motel is one of the best places to stay in El Nido’s Lio Beach for great value.
Click Here to view the current rates and availability of Lakwa Motel
Where to Stay in El Nido: Nacpan Beach
If you’re wondering where to stay in El Nido for a secluded beach escape, Nacpan Beach is the best choice. This beautiful stretch of powdery white sand is 40 minutes north of downtown El Nido. Many people visit Nacpan Beach on day trips from El Nido, but the best way to experience this place is with an overnight stay.
Pros:
- Best beach in El Nido
- Fun restaurants and bars on the beach
- Variety of budget and mid-range accommodation
- Least crowded part of El Nido
Cons:
- 40 minutes north of El Nido town proper & the airport/ transfer van station
- Island hopping tours are more expensive from Nacpan
- Some restaurants close in the evening after day trippers leave
If this sounds like what you’re looking for, the following are my top picks for where to stay in El Nido’s Nacpan Beach, ranging from upscale to budget accommodations.
ANGKLA Beach Club & Boutique Resort
For those wondering where to stay in El Nido for a boutique luxury experience, ANGKLA Beach Club & Boutique Resort is the ideal escape. This beachfront resort boasts 30 elegantly designed rooms and suites tastefully decorated with a blend of modern and traditional Filipino elements. It’s among my favorite aesthetics of any of the hotels in El Nido.
As for amenities, the resort features a beachfront infinity pool, immaculate gardens, a fitness center, and massage treatments. The Beach Club and restaurant serve delicious Filipino and international cuisine, with bespoke cocktails. To add to this, guests can also enjoy various activities such as island hopping, snorkeling, and private sunset dinners. With its luxurious amenities, lovely Nacpan Beach location, and warm hospitality, ANGKLA Beach Club & Boutique Resort is one of the best places to stay in El Nido.
Click Here to view the current rates and availability of ANGKLA Beach Club
Nacpan Beach Glamping
Nacpan Beach Glamping is a unique way to experience the beauty of Nacpan Beach. Set 45 minutes north of El Nido Town, this exotic getaway is a great way to spend some time in nature. The tents are spacious and well-appointed, nestled between towering coconut trees and tropical gardens. Shared bathroom facilities are available on-site, as well as one of the best restaurants on Nacpan Beach. It’s among the best places to stay in El Nido for a unique experience.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Nacpan Beach Glamping
Mad Monkey Hostel
Mad Monkey Hostel is the best place to stay in El Nido’s Nacpan Beach if you’re on a budget and looking for a fun vibe. 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 the best place to stay in El Nido for a great party hostel experience.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Mad Monkey Hostel
Where to Stay in El Nido: Private Islands
If you’re wondering where to stay in El Nido for the best luxury resorts and overwater bungalows, the private islands of Bacuit Bay are the only answer. These private island resorts provide a secluded island escape, far from the crowds of El Nido Town. These resorts boast unspoiled hidden beaches, decadent bungalows, and unparalleled service.
Pros:
- Most luxurious resorts in the Philippines
- Secluded private islands (no crowds)
- Most have in-house activities
- Best views of Bacuit Bay
Cons:
- $$$
- No boat transfers after dark
- Higher cost for in-house tours
- Some resorts need a refresh
If this sounds like what you’re looking for, the following are my top picks for where to stay in El Nido’s private Islands.
Pangulasian Island by El Nido Resorts
Pangulasian Island has long been El Nido’s most luxurious private island resort. This island hideaway is an eco-luxury haven, with only 42 villas spread across a pristine beachfront and jungle hilltop. Guests can choose from beachfront villas, pool villas, canopy villas with treetop views, or my favorite, the Kalaw Villas for a truly secluded escape. Each of the suites boasts modern amenities combined with traditional Filipino architecture, creating a best-in-class offering for discerning guests.
As one of the best places to stay in El Nido, Pangulasian provides a wealth of amenities. Naturally, the island offers incredible sunrises and sunsets, with its south-facing beach making for incredible panoramas of Bacuit Bay. As for facilities, it boasts a fitness center, multiple pools, island tours, and the Amianan restaurant serving international cuisine. Guests can also indulge in spa treatments, explore the island with water sports, or simply lounge in the comfort of their spacious villas. With its gorgeous natural setting and exquisite accommodations, Pangulasian is the best place to stay in El Nido for a luxurious getaway.
Click Here to view the current rates and availability of Pangulasian
Cauayan Island Resort and Spa
Not sure where to stay in El Nido for a boutique island experience? Cauayan Island Resort and Spa might be just what you’re looking for. This boutique resort features spacious villas spread across a private island, from beachfront bungalows to overwater villas, and two-bedroom pool villas with sweeping sea views. The villas offer well-appointed furnishings, comfortable amenities, and floor-to-ceiling views of the lagoon, island, and limestone cliffs.
In addition to its chic island villas, Cauayan provides a full range of amenities. Guests can make use of the fitness center and resort infinity pool, try their hand at diving or snorkeling, or hike along the island’s natural trails. There’s also a spa, boutique, and restaurant serving international cuisine and authentic Filipino specialties, all in a gorgeous paradise setting. For a serene getaway with a touch of opulence, Cauayan Island is one of the best places to stay in El Nido.
Click Here to view the current rates and availability of Cauayan Island
Kudugman Beach Cottages
Kudugman Beach Cottages is an idyllic beach resort just around the corner from Snake Island (a popular stop on Island Hopping Tour B). With its incredible vantage point between the private island resorts of Pangulasian and Lagen, Kudagman offers an otherworldly escape. The boutique property features 5 thoughtfully designed cottages set atop a powdery white sand beach. With the resort only reachable by sea, guests can enjoy a truly secluded getaway in nature.
All accommodations feature an outdoor terrace with seating. I recommend the Deluxe Family Room for its picture-perfect setting on the beach. As for amenities, Kudugman operates on an all-inclusive basis, with full-board meals and complimentary snorkeling and kayaking on offer. Guests can also book customized island hopping tours, or enjoy a sunset cruise in the Bay. The best amenity at Kudugman though, is its unmatched setting on a secluded beach. Considering a full-board stay here comes in at a fraction of the cost of the other private island resorts in the Bay, Kudugman is one of the best places to stay in El Nido for a secluded island escape.
Click Here to view the current rates and availability of Kudugman Beach Cottages
Conclusion: Where to Stay in El Nido
That’s it for my complete guide to where to stay in El Nido! Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach getaway in Nacpan, or a fun party hostel in Corong Corong Beach, I hope found the best place to stay in El Nido for your upcoming trip. And 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.
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
My Review and photos of: Tour A
My Review and photos of: Tour B
My Review and photos of: Tour C
The most epic activity you can do in El Nido on the land is to hike up Taraw Peak and I share the photos and tell you how you can use the same local guide as me in this blog post: Hiking up Taraw Peak – What You Need to Know
Thursday 7th of September 2023
This is exactly what I needed - so clear and helpful :) thank you
HEZEL
Thursday 1st of June 2023
THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR IDEAS.:)
Jackson
Sunday 18th of June 2023
Thanks :)