Choosing between Boracay and El Nido might seem impossible. How can you decide between two tropical paradise destinations? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
But we\u2019ll let you in on a secret: travelling to Boracay<\/a> and travelling to El Nido are two very different experiences. When you learn how these Philippines destinations fit in with your travel style and interests, the decision might be easier than you expected. <\/p>\n\n\n\n To help you choose, we compared how Boracay fares vs El Nido in different travel categories, from beaches to family-friendliness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But first, let\u2019s start with some quick facts about each destination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Boracay is a small resort island with a big reputation. In 2012, it was named the world\u2019s best island, drawing unprecedented crowds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n At one point, tourism in Boracay got so out of hand that the Filippino government closed Boracay for environmental rehabilitation in 2018.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But don\u2019t worry: Boracay is back in business! With a stronger focus on sustainable travel, Boracay is welcoming tourists to its crystal-clear shores again. Just keep in mind that there are stronger environmental regulations in place now. For example, the famous beach fire shows are banned to protect the beach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n El Nido is a town and a municipality under the same name on the island of Palawan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The town became famous as a gateway to something much more special: the Bacuit Archipelago. Its 45 jagged limestone islands look like something out of a dream. With hidden white-sand beaches, lagoons and coves, the archipelago is a strong contender for the most beautiful spot in the Philipines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Once you\u2019ve explored the archipelago, there\u2019s more to see on the island of Palawan itself. Scenic hikes, breathtaking lookout points, waterfalls and white-sand beaches can be reached within a short drive from the town of El Nido.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Close your eyes and imagine the perfect beach. If you pictured white sand, palm trees, turquoise water and sailboats bobbing on the horizon \u2014 you\u2019re thinking of Boracay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Boracay consistently ranks as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The sand is soft and white and the water is calm and crystal-clear, making Boracay one of the top Philippines beach destinations. <\/p>\n\n\n\n What about beaches in El Nido, then? Well, there are some stunning beaches here too. Think sandy coves hidden away among limestone cliffs. Pure magic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But here\u2019s the catch: El Nido\u2019s most beautiful beaches require a boat or a bit of a drive to get to.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Bacuit Archipelago is famous for dreamy stretches of sand but can only be accessed on an island-hopping day trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There are also nice beaches on Palawan island. Nacpan Beach is generally considered the most beautiful with its four-kilometre-long stretch of powdery sand. It takes around 40 minutes to get here from El Nido. Or, you can stay at the Mad Monkey<\/a> hostel right on the beach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Options closer to El Nido town include Las Caba\u00f1as Beach and Corong Corong Beach, both of which have accommodation options. There\u2019s also a beach in El Nido town but this is where all the boat tours depart from \u2014 it\u2019s not swimming-friendly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Both Boracay and El Nido have wonderful beaches but those on Boracay are easier to access, without compromising on beauty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Winner: Boracay<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n There\u2019s no doubt that El Nido takes the cake when it comes to adventuring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It takes four days to fully explore the Bacuit Archipelago that El Nido is the gateway to. There are different boat trip routes (A, B, C and D), each exploring a different part of the archipelago with beach and snorkelling stops. <\/p>\n\n\n\n And that\u2019s not all. World-class diving, several hiking trails, and beautiful waterfalls \u2014 staying in El Nido opens up a whole world of exploration. If you love to stay active, you\u2019ll be spoilt for choice here. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Meanwhile, Boracay is more about taking it easy and relaxing on the beach. It does, however, offer some excellent watersports. If you\u2019re a windsurfing and kitesurfing fan, Bulabog Beach on Boracay island has good wind conditions from November to April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Winner: El Nido <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Beach paradise by day\u2026 and party central by night! Despite its remote location, Boracay has incredible nightlife.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The party usually starts at the beach bars and moves to the nightclubs around midnight. Boracay resorts also put on themed nights and performances throughout the week so keep an eye out on their social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After Boracay\u2019s restoration, there are some new rules in place to protect the environment. Beach fire shows have been banned and drinking and smoking on the beach are also not allowed (you can still enjoy drinks at the beachfront bars, just don\u2019t leave the designated bar area).<\/p>\n\n\n\n The nightlife in El Nido is more mellow. There are bars in El Nido town as well as beach bars around Corong Corong. But most places close by midnight so don\u2019t expect a wild night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Winner: Boracay<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Boracay is well set up for families with children. Many resorts here have kids\u2019 clubs, babysitting services and family-friendly activities on offer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The beaches are clean, the water is calm and safe to swim, and the slow pace is perfect for relaxing. Look out for where you book your hotel: you don\u2019t want to be staying too close to all the clubbing action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n El Nido also has family-friendly resorts, but not as many. With its countless adventures, it\u2019s a great destination for families with older kids, who can join in on the fun \u2014 snorkelling, kayaking and exploring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Winner: Boracay for small kids; both for older kids.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Beaches, activities and nightlife aside\u2026 How easy is it to actually get to Boracay and El Nido? <\/p>\n\n\n\n The closest airport to Boracay is Caticlan airport. From there, you\u2019ll need to get a tricycle or a van transfer to Caticlan Jetty Port, where you\u2019ll catch a local boat to Boracay. Once in Boracay, you can get a tricycle to your hotel. The whole journey takes around 45 minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBoracay: beach paradise found<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
El Nido: the adventure archipelago <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Boracay vs El Nido<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Beaches<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Adventure<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Nightlife<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Family-friendly <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Getting there<\/h3>\n\n\n\n