El Nido Things to Do
As the inspiration behind the novel, The Beach (yep, though the movie was later shot in Thailand), El Nido is undoubtedly a dreamy playground for aqua babies. Once you've scratched off island hopping tours off your list however, it's time to try the equally exceptional inland activities.
Climbing up the Taraw Cliff
Going up the peak of Taraw Cliff has to be the most challenging but rewarding adventure that we've had here. It's not for the faint-hearted as you will be traversing across nearly vertical and jagged limestone with sharp rocks in every turn. We must warn you though that because of recent accidents, tour operators will discourage you from doing this difficult climb. If you're physically fit and are an experienced climber then by all means, do it. You just have to find a guide willing to take you to the hanging bridge and the viewpoint for 400PHP. Once there, the view is phenomenal and worth every drop of sweat.
Marimegmeg Beach
About 10 minutes from town is our favourite beach ever, Marimegmeg. We came here after Nacpan and decided to stay until the sunset, best decision ever. The place is so chilled out and not overrun with sun worshippers. We enjoyed swimming and in between dips, had delicious meals at the only restaurant open at the time. We don't know if it's because we arrived a few hours before dinner but there weren't that many option when we were there. However, The Beach Shack was open and it was more than enough.
By sundown, we plopped down on one of the loungers in front of the restaurant and had beers and fries. It was easily the best sunset ever and it was really sublime sitting there for hours enjoying the night breeze, the hushed murmur of other beach goers, and the almost imperceptible sound of the waves crashing at the shore. At the end of the beach, there is a bar that plays some club music but it wasn't our thing so we didn't hang around. This place is really accessible so we were surprised by how underrated it was. You can hire a tricycle for about 150PHP each way.
Zip-lining to the Snake Island
At the same beach (Marimegmeg, also known as Las Cabanas) is one of the longest zip-lines in the country at 750m that connects it with Snake Island. It costs 500PHP one way and an additional 400PHP for your return run. Otherwise, you can swim back or walk when it's low tide. The walk up the hill is a bit hard but the view from the top is superb.
Ille Cave
If you like pre-history, you'll be surprised to know that there is a significant archaeological site in El Nido, Ille Cave (New Ibajay, El Nido) located about 22 km from town proper. It takes about 45 minutes to get there by either motorbikes or tricycle and you can get by without a guide, just pay 75PHP for registration fee. We recommend getting a guide though as it would cost you only 150PHP. There are no displays of potteries and whatnot but there are signboards telling you of the thousand-year old artifacts found there. Please be cautious in your explorations, as it's dark and slippery inside.
Full Moon parties
If by some lucky stroke of cosmic fate, you happen to be there on a full moon - do not miss the Full Moon party held at The Beach Shack in Merimegmeg from 9 pm to 4 am (Corong Corong, Bacuit Bay, El Nido). Entrance is free but they don't allow outside drinks so you know where they get their money. Unlike some full moon parties where it's a contest of who gets wasted first, this is pretty laid back and is a good chance to meet other like-minded people. Booze, full moon, bonfire, beach, and live music? Say no more.
Exploring on your own
Spending a few weeks in El Nido? We suggest renting motorbikes or mountain bikes to explore at your own pace and get to know the locals. You can rent a scooter for as low as 500PHP or a mountain bike for 600PHP. You may check out El Nido Paradise's website for details.
Dining on the beach
End your day by dining on the beach. Aside from another fantastic sunset, there are plenty of restaurants serving freshly caught seafood, pasta, pizza, traditional cuisine, ice old beer, and wine.
