What to expect when visiting El Nido
El Nido is Palawan Island’s northernmost tip, popular around the world as the gateway to paradise — the Bacuit Archipelago. This group of picture-perfect limestone islands boasts white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, enchanting lagoons, and beautiful underwater.
El Nido’s town centre leaves much to be desired with its mediocre beach, narrow streets, and mostly backpacker and mid-range hostels. But the island-hopping adventures from here are some of the best you will see in the world. Outside town, you should also include in your El Nido itinerary a visit to Nacpan-Calitang Beach and a hike to Taraw Peak.
3 ways to get from Coron to El Nido
There are three ways to travel the distance of 277 km (172 miles) from Coron to El Nido: by flight (1h45m), fast ferry (5 hours) and slow boat or ‘bangka’* ( 6-9 hours). The journey takes between 1h45m - 9h and the quickest way is by flight. The lowest priced tickets start from 2,420 PHP ($43.00) for the slow boat or ‘bangka’* .Where to stay in El Nido?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in El Nido at the bottom of this page.
Coron to El Nido by Slow boat or ‘Bangka’*
*IMPORTANT UPDATE: The last time we checked (February 2023), Bunso Transport temporarily suspended its trips between Coron and El Nido. We’ll update the page once they resume operations on this route. For now, we suggest taking a fast ferry or a flight from Coron to El Nido.
The term ‘bangka’ refers to the boats locals use to cross islands. A slow boat trip from Coron to El Nido takes 6-9 hours, depending on the weather conditions.
Bunso Transport is the sole operator offering slow ferry trips for this route from Coron to El Nido. The ferry departs at 07:00 and is available only every other Wednesday. These slow boats can accommodate only 80 passengers.
Fares start from 2,420 PHP ($43.00) per person, which includes a free lunch. Since online booking isn’t available, you need to buy your tickets early from any travel agency in Coron. You can also ask your hotel for assistance in booking tickets.
Make sure to only take the slow ferry if the weather is bright and sunny. Sometimes, the currents can be quite strong, which makes for a rougher, longer trip from Coron to El Nido. If the weather is bad, though, the company or port will cancel the trip for the safety of passengers and crew.
Although slow boats are cheaper than fast ferries, we don’t really recommend this option. Taking a slow boat from Coron to El Nido for 6-9 hours is time-consuming and really uncomfortable.
Passenger-cargo ship from Coron to El Nido
Aside from fast ferries and slow boats, a passenger-cargo ship also used to operate between Coron and El Nido: MV May Lillies by Atienza Interisland Ferries.
Some of its trips catered to only cargo, while other trips allowed both passengers and cargo. The ship used to leave Coron Port every Monday at 07:00, and the travel time to El Nido was 8 hours. Tickets were about 1,500 PHP ($26.50) per person.
The last time we checked (January 2023), Atienza Interisland Ferries now plies the Manila to El Nido route as a cargo ship. This means they no longer offer passenger-cargo ships from Coron to El Nido. We also couldn’t confirm if there are other passenger-cargo ships operating on this route.
Coron to El Nido by Fast Ferry
Travelling by boat from Coron to El Nido is a beautiful journey. The route passes a few well-known islands, such as Linapacan and San Miguel, all with beautiful beaches and landscapes.
PRO TIP: If you are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience in El Nido, check out the Tao Island Epedition. It costs some money, but we can assure you that it will be the highlight of your trip!
If you want to travel from Coron to El Nido in one day, you can choose from several ferry companies, such as Montenegro, Atienza, and Judy Ferry. Two other ferry companies that used to operate on this Coron to El Nido route are Phimal and Jomalia ferries but they haven’t resumed their operations since the pandemic.
The fast ferries from Coron to El Nido operate on alternate days, so it’s important to check before you book which ferry operates on which day. Regardless of which company you book with, all ferries depart in the morning and travel time takes around 5 hours.
Fast ferry schedule from Coron to El Nido
It’s best that you book your ticket in advance. Tickets for Coron to El Nido sell out several days in advance during peak season from December to April. The last time we checked (January 2023), only Atienza and Judy Ferry can be booked online via BookAway.
If you prefer taking the Montenegro ferry, you need to buy your tickets at the Montenegro Lines office in Coron town. Note that the line can get long outside the office, especially during peak season.
On the day of your trip, make sure to arrive at the port at least an hour before the scheduled departure to secure seats on the fast ferry. If you don’t arrive early, you would be forfeiting your ticket, and they would give your seat to a passenger on the waiting list.
Departure port in Coron
All ferries depart from Coron Port, 2 km away from the town centre. From your hotel, you can easily take the 15-minute walk to the port. If you carry (heavy) luggage, you can ride a tricycle for around 20 PHP ($0.30).
Upon entering Coron Port, you need to pay a port fee of 20 PHP ($0.30).
Arrival port in El Nido
The ferries from Coron arrive at El Nido Ferry Terminal. This ferry terminal is within walking distance from most hotels in the town centre, but you can also rent a tricycle for a low price.
Coron to El Nido by Flight
If you’re short on time, you can take a short flight with AirSwift from Coron to El Nido. Note though that flights are available only three days a week (Tue, Thu and Sat).
The cost of 3,300 PHP ($59.00) includes the van transfer from Coron town to the airport, as well as the tricycle ride from El Nido Airport to town.
Taking a flight is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Coron to El Nido. However, short-haul flights like this have a negative effect on the environment due to the high emissions caused by taking off and landing. If you decide to travel by plane, consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
See here the steps to travel from Coron to El Nido by flight including the steps to get from/to the airport:
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Step 1: Coron town to Coron Airport by Minivan
From your hotel in Coron, you can take a minivan to Francisco B. Reyes Airport, also known as Busuanga Airport. Travel time is around 45 minutes.
Some hotels in Coron offer free airport shuttles. But if this is not available in your hotel, you can ask them for assistance in getting a ride to the airport. They can arrange a shared van transfer for 300 PHP ($5.00) per person.
You can also rent a tricycle from the town proper to the airport for the same amount of 300 PHP ($5.00). However, it may be an uncomfortable 45-minute ride to the airport, so we suggest looking for a van transfer instead.
If you’re travelling in a group, you can also book a private van that can fit up to 10 passengers. Rates start from 1,800 PHP ($31.50).
Step 2: Coron to El Nido by Flight
Air Swift is the only airline offering flights between Coron and El Nido. Air Swift is a boutique airline operating a small propellor plane on this route. Flights are available every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
The plane leaves Busuanga Airport at 15:20 and arrives 40 minutes later in El Nido. A one-way ticket ranges from 3,000 PHP ($52.00) to 4,350 PHP ($76.00).
Note that their schedules change according to specified dates, so it’s best to check AirSwift or Skyscanner for the latest updates.
Step 3: El Nido Airport to El Nido town by Tuk-Tuk
Flights from Coron arrive at El Nido Airport, located about 5 km away from El Nido town centre.
To get to your hotel, you can take a 20-minute tricycle or tuk-tuk ride that costs around 300 PHP ($5.00) for two people and luggage. You can check with your hotel if they offer airport pick-up service.
Our favourite places to stay in El Nido
El Nido is all about stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters and natural beauty. And that’s what our favourite stays in El Nido reflect!
There are a lot of awesome accommodations for all budgets to pick between in El Nido. Our favourite stays are places with the best views, incredible nature, stunning decor and amazing staff.
Before you start reading about our favourite stays, it’s good to know a bit about the best areas to stay in El Nido, so that you’re picking the best accommodation in the area that’s right for you.
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- El Nido Town is where you’ll find most of our favourite stays. It’s the main tourist area in El Nido, and where you’ll find the ferry point. Nice and convenient!
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- Corong-Corong is a quieter area located just south of El Nido Town and is known for its beautiful sunsets and picturesque beach.
Cadlao Resort and Restaurant - Treating Yourself
Area: Next to El Nido town — 10-minute walk to town centre
Your only negative comment about this place is that you wish you’d stayed longer. This place really is the tropical island resort that you’ve been dreaming of.
The infinity pool overlooks the sea, there are palm trees everywhere and the service is incredible. Here you’ll get to enjoy your own spacious cottage, with some of them opening up right onto the beach.
- Three swimming pools
- Beach-side bungalows
- Incredible views
- Tasty breakfast included
Double rooms start from $150 per night
Duli Beach Resort - Treating Yourself
Area: Duli Beach — around 1-hour to El Nido town
There’s no better way to start your day than drawing back the curtains and seeing the ocean right there. That’s exactly what you can get at Duli Beach Resort. Their spacious bungalows with private terraces are set right on the beach.
The remote location means that a lot of the time you’ll have the beach to yourself. You also don’t have to worry about finding food or a drink as the hotel’s on-site restaurant and bar will undoubtedly satisfy you. If you want to head to El Nido town, it’s just under an hour’s drive away.
- Right on the beach
- Secluded location
- Amazing staff
- Delicious breakfast included
Double rooms start from $50 per night
Spin Designer Hostel - Mid Range
Area: El Nido town — only a 5-minute walk around the town and beach
You might have guessed by the name, Spin Designer Hostel has been designed to perfection. It’s so nicely and creatively designed that you probably wouldn’t expect it to be a hostel.
The great thing about staying in a hostel, whether you’re in a private room or the dorms, is that there’s often great facilities. Spin Designer Hostel has a shared kitchen with BBQ facilities, a games room and a terrace surrounded by the forest. How about enjoying your complimentary breakfast here?
- Stylish and modern hostel
- Great amenities
- Delicious breakfast included
- Private and dorm rooms
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
Hutch Lodging House - Mid Range
Area: Next to El Nido town — approx. 20-minute walk to El Nido beach and town centre
Hutch Lodging House brings the outside inside. With most of the hotel being open-air and plants scattered throughout, there’s a very relaxing ambience here. You also have the option to relax on your own private balcony as every room has one.
It’s beautifully designed! The hotel is only a 10-minute walk from town — far enough that you get peace and quiet, but not too far.
- Great location
- Beautiful design
- Air conditioning
- Every room has a private balcony
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
Bale Cabugao Cottages - Budget Friendly
Area: Near El Nido town – approx. 10-minute walk to El Nido beach and town centre
Only steps from the beach, all you have to do is stand on the balcony at Bale Cabugao Cottages to hear the sound of the waves. Imagine eating your breakfast with this view! Great news: it’s included in the price.
The hosts go out of their way to help you organise anything in El Nido. Their energy is also guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
- Incredible views
- Great location
- Helpful and happy hosts
- Comfortable rooms
Double rooms $15-$30 per night
Frequently Asked Questions about Coron to El Nido
What is the distance from Coron to El Nido?
The distance from Coron to El Nido is 277 km (172 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Coron to El Nido?
The fastest way to get from Coron to El Nido is by flight and takes 1h45m.
What is the cheapest way to get from Coron to El Nido?
The cheapest way to get from Coron to El Nido is by slow boat or ‘bangka’* with ticket costs starting from 2,420 PHP ($43.00).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Coron to El Nido. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
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Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She’s loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand’s beaches also have a special place in her heart.
Hi! Planning to go from Coron to El Nido on a Wednesday in march. Is it safe to assume that the operating days of Montenegro shipping lines will not be changing in the near future? Also any prediction for the reopening of other ferry companies?
Thanks and keep up the good work!
Hi Mateus, we just updated the Coron to El Nido route. Montenegro departs every Sunday, Wednesday, and Friday morning. We’ll update the page again if they go back to daily trips in the future.
If you want to book your tickets online in advance, Judy Ferry Travel also offers Wednesday trips available on BookAway. Hope this helps!
Wie ist es jetzt im August/September. Online findet man nicht viel zu Covid Restrictions. Ist etwas groß zu beachten und fahren die Fähren wieder regelmäßiger. Ich würde gern von cebu nach coron fliegen und dann mich runter arbeiten nach Puerto princessa um von da dann nach Bali weiter zu machen (über Manilla). Aber wenn es keine Fährtickets gibt, ist das alles etwas schwierig und die Flüge sind sicher häufig ausgebucht, wenn man kurzfristig bucht oder?
Hi Tom, first of all, sorry for our late reply. I hope this information will still arrive on time.
A travel itinerary that includes Cebu, Coron, Palawan and Bali sounds amazing. And no worries, you can do this without too many problems as long as you plan in advance.
Honestly, it has always been like that when travelling in The Philippines. If you want to get the most out of your trip here, you’ll end up taking a few flights and possibly ferries to travel between the islands. The longer you wait with booking flight tickets, the more expensive they will get. Normally you should book at least one week in advance, but earlier is always better.
Flights between Cebu and Coron operate daily again, but the ferry between Coron and El Nido only a few times a week. We just updated this page with the latest info about the ferry schedules and references on where to book your tickets.
Hope you’ll have an amazing trip.
PS: Diese Antwort ist auf Englisch verfasst, um sie für Reisende aus allen Ländern hilfreich zu machen.
Nice page, good info. How about , ‘moving on from el nido’. Any ships to other area’s or just back to princessa for flight to, cebu etc ???
Hi Tom! Great question! Have you heard about Port Barton? It’s a laidback town located kind of in the middle of El Nido and Puerto Princesa. You can get there with a direct van from El Nido! Here’s our guide on how to get from El Nido to Port Barton if you’re interested!