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El Nido is the gateway to Bacuit Bay in northern Palawan. Its limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons draw island-hoppers all year. The direct flight is the quickest way to get from Manila to El Nido, taking 2h 20m - 2h 50m. By sea, the direct ferry is the cheapest at $33 (2,000 PHP), but it will take a long time, around 1d 12h.
Distance from Manila to El Nido
Manila and El Nido are about 417 km (259 miles) apart, and the overland-and-sea journey covers around 623 km. The quickest way to get from Manila to El Nido is by taking the direct flight, which takes around 2h 20m - 2h 50m.
5 ways to travel from Manila to El Nido
There are five ways to travel from Manila to El Nido. You can choose between the flight + minivan via Puerto Princesa, flight, indirect ferry via Coron, ferry, and flight + minivan via San Vicente*. The journey takes 2h 20m–1d 12h and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by ferry with tickets starting at $33 (2,000 PHP).
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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.
- 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!
- Corong-Corong is a quieter area located just south of El Nido Town and is known for its beautiful sunsets and picturesque beach.
Treat YourselfCadlao Resort and Restaurant
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 (9,100 PHP) per night
Treat YourselfDuli Beach Resort
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 (3,050 PHP) per night
Mid-RangeSpin Designer Hostel
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 (1,820-3,050 PHP) per night
Mid-RangeHutch Lodging House
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 (1,820-3,050 PHP) per night
BudgetBale Cabugao Cottages
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 (910-1,820 PHP) per night
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit 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.
Rounding it up
That's the full picture for getting from Manila to El Nido, roughly 417 kilometres (259 miles) apart. In all, there are 5 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $33 (2,000 PHP). The quickest trip takes 2h 20m.
Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from Manila to El Nido?
The distance from Manila to El Nido is 417 kilometres (259 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Manila to El Nido?
The fastest way to get from Manila to El Nido is by flight and takes 2h 20m - 2h 50m.
What is the cheapest way to get from Manila to El Nido?
The cheapest way to get from Manila to El Nido is by ferry with ticket costs starting from 2,000 PHP.
About the Authors
Travel Writer
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.
Senior Travel Writer
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.
Travel Writer
A writer and full-time mom who loves planning beach trips. London is her favourite destination.
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Ferry Schedule Notice
Ferry schedules can change due to weather, sea conditions, or seasonal adjustments. We recommend confirming departure times directly with the operator, especially during monsoon season.
