El Nido in 1 Day for Friends - Hidden Beach (Matinloc Island)
In Collaboration with Lagum Adventure Tour. Updated on February 13, 2026.
This Tour is one of the most popular tours in El Nido, highlight stops are Hidden Beach and Helicopter Island - Secret beach and Talisay Beach share their unique beauty as well, explore and swim your way to the most visited secret beach in the Philippines - Secret Beach, with karst limestone backdrop, it will surely leave an impression to last a lifetime.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Lagum Adventure Tour, inspired by the tour El Nido Full Day Tour C with Buffet Lunch . Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Hidden Beach (Matinloc Island)
- Secret Beach
- Talisay Beach (Tapiutan Strait)
- Helicopter Island (Dilumacad)
- Buffet lunch on the beach
- Snorkeling and swimming in clear waters
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day island-hopping tour from El Nido town. Free pickup within El Nido town is included. The schedule below follows the activity backbone in the listed order and provides realistic transit buffers between stops.
Hotel pickup (El Nido Town)
Pickup from accommodations inside El Nido town and transfer to the municipal port to board the tour boat. Please be ready at the agreed pickup time at your accommodation's main entrance.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your pickup location with the local contact the evening before; pickup covers addresses inside El Nido town only.
- Have a small day bag ready (waterproof phone pouch, sunscreen, hat); luggage should stay at your hotel.
- Arrive at the accommodation lobby 5 minutes before the scheduled pickup to avoid delays for the full group.
Boarding & boat departure (El Nido Port)
Short transfer to the municipal port, boarding, safety briefing, and transit to the first island stop.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring any needed seasickness medication before boarding; the boat will depart shortly after everyone boards.
- Keep valuables in a waterproof bag and follow crew instructions for seating and lifejackets.
- Use the restroom at the port before departure—island facilities are minimal.
Secluded limestone cove & swim
Secluded locale with towering rock formations, abundant coral & a peaceful, sandy beach — time for swimming and snorkeling.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect local coral and reduce glare when snorkeling.
- Wear water shoes for rocky entry points; some coves have uneven seabeds near shore.
- Ask the boat crew where the best snorkel spots are; they know local currents and coral areas to avoid.
Hidden Beach (Matinloc Island)
Hidden Beach is one of must-see beaches in El Nido, with its karst limestone background and a stunning view.
Tips from local experts:
- Hidden Beach may require a short swim or wade from the boat—carry gear in a dry bag and secure items on the boat.
- The beach is sheltered but shade is limited; bring a hat and drink water between swims.
- Follow local signage and crew guidance to protect nesting areas and coral; avoid walking on reef.
Secret Beach & Buffet Lunch on the beach
Visit the iconic Secret Beach — enjoy swimming, snorkeling, then a buffet-style lunch served on the beach (included).
Tips from local experts:
- Lunch is served on the beach; carry cash if you need extras (drinks are excluded).
- Keep a dry change of clothes and a towel in a sealed bag for after lunch.
- Store any trash with the crew's collection to help keep the beach clean; bring a reusable bottle to refill.
Talisay Beach (Tapiutan Strait)
Talisay Beach is located in Tapiutan Strait, offering one of the most stunning views in El Nido with white sand and limestone backdrops.
Tips from local experts:
- This beach is great for photos—arrive early in the stop window for softer light and fewer people.
- Shallow, clear water makes it family-friendly for supervised children; always keep an eye on tides.
- If you plan to snorkel, avoid areas with sea urchins and check with the crew about safe entry points.
Helicopter Island (Dilumacad Island)
Also known as the helicopter-shaped island with lush limestone hills & virgin beaches — time for a final swim or short walk on the sand.
Tips from local experts:
- Helicopter Island may have brief shore access; follow the crew's guidance when landing the boat.
- Carry your mask/snorkel if you want to explore coral; rental options are available but often limited.
- Watch sunrise/sunset colors reflect on the limestone cliffs if you time future visits—on this tour, enjoy the midday light for clear water.
Return cruise to El Nido & drop-off
Cruise back to the municipal port and transfer guests back to their El Nido town accommodation. Tour concludes on return drop-off.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect a 60–90 minute return ride depending on sea conditions; secure all belongings before cruising back.
- Crew will advise on estimated arrival time; plan any onward travel (ferries/air) with sufficient buffer.
- If you rented snorkeling gear or kayaks earlier, confirm return of equipment to the crew before disembarking.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 6 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 3 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 5 |
| Total Places | 5 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Outdoor, Meal |
