Lagoons with secret entrances always feel unreal. This El Nido Tour A is interesting because it strings together Big Lagoon scenery with a quieter lagoon stop, then finishes with Shimizu Island snorkeling and beach time in one long day. I like how the plan balances showpiece views with calmer waters you can actually pause and enjoy.

I also like the pacing. You get guided time at Seven Commandos Beach, plus dedicated lagoon and snorkeling blocks, so you’re not just rushing from one photo spot to another. For snorkeling, the route is set up to give you real water time, not just a quick splash.

One thing to plan for: the advertised price doesn’t cover all the costs. You’ll need to budget for the environmental fee and Big Lagoon entrance, and weather can also affect timing or operations.

Quick Key Points to Know

• Big Lagoon is the anchor stop with guided sightseeing and time to soak in Bacuit Bay from the water
• Secret Lagoon is reached through a narrow opening which makes it feel more private than the main lagoons
• Shimizu Island adds coral snorkeling and beach relaxation so you’re not only on boats
• Seven Commandos Beach fits the day’s adventure rhythm with a guided beach stretch before the lagoons
• Expect separate fees on top of the tour price including the environmental fee and Big Lagoon entrance

Getting Oriented: From Grounded Coffee to the First Beach Time

Your day starts at Grounded 100% Arabica Coffee, El Nido Branch. It’s a handy meeting point because it’s easy to recognize, and it gets you moving early before the day gets busy on the water. The details you’ll see may say 8:30 AM or 9:00 AM, depending on confirmation, so I strongly suggest showing up a bit early and double-checking with your operator the morning of.

Once everyone’s gathered, you’ll head off to the first guided segment. This tour is built around a shared-group format, so expect a bit of waiting while the group boards and everyone gets sorted. That’s normal for El Nido island hopping, and it’s also why bringing essentials like sunscreen and a hat before you leave shore matters.

Even if you’re not a hardcore snorkeler, the first part of the day is a good warm-up: you get a guided beach stop, then the day gradually ramps up into lagoon time.

Seven Commandos Beach: A Real Break Before the Lagoons

Seven Commandos Beach is scheduled for about 45 minutes with a guide. This isn’t just a random stop. It’s a classic El Nido waypoint that gives you an “on land” stretch—time to look at the coastline, take photos from the shore, and reset before boats and lagoons take over your day.

For you, that matters because lagoon tours can feel repetitive if you only ever sit on boats. A beach block adds variety and helps you recharge. It’s also a good moment to do the small things that save you later: apply sunscreen, hydrate, and double-check your swimwear and camera access.

The only catch is that beach time can feel short if the group is moving quickly. So if you’re the type who wants a long, slow soak, you’ll want to treat this as a warm-up, not the main relaxation session.

Lagoon Hopping: Big Lagoon’s Big Moment

The core of this tour is the lagoon circuit, and Big Lagoon is the star. It’s where you’ll get the classic Bacuit Bay look, and it’s also the stop where snorkeling and marine viewing are a major focus.

Why Big Lagoon is so valuable: it’s the most iconic setting on this route. Even if you’ve seen photos, being out on the water gives you a sense of scale—the cliffs, the calm water pockets, and the way the light changes minute to minute. This is the stop most people want because it’s both scenic and functional: you can actually spend time looking around, not just pass by.

There is a practical note though: the Big Lagoon entrance fee is not included (it’s listed separately). That means you should factor it into your day’s budget. If you show up expecting the tour price to cover everything, you’ll be a little surprised at checkout.

Also, because this is a shared group tour, you may get less personal control over timing than private charters. The guide will keep you moving to fit the overall schedule, which is great for staying on track, but less great if you hate being on a clock.

Small Lagoon Time and How to Use It

Tour A is designed to include Small Lagoon along with Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon. Even when the schedule is efficient, the best way to enjoy this portion is to treat it like a palate cleanser between the “big view” stop and the quieter final lagoon.

Small Lagoon time can help you get a calmer visual rhythm. Instead of focusing only on dramatic cliffs and long sightlines, you can pay attention to the water surface and how marine life tends to show up in the shallower, clearer moments. If you brought an underwater-ready camera or GoPro-style setup, this is a good place to get comfortable with your gear and your buoyancy.

If you’re snorkeling, remember that you’re in a shared, guided environment. That means you’ll likely enter and exit in a coordinated way. Your job is simple: listen closely, move calmly, and don’t rush the water.

Secret Lagoon: The Quiet Stop You’ll Remember

Secret Lagoon is the tour moment that tends to feel most personal. It’s described as being accessible through a narrow opening, which is exactly what makes the experience different from the more open lagoon areas.

The “narrow opening” detail is more than trivia. It changes the vibe. You go from bright, open-water movement into a more contained space where sound carries differently and the scenery feels framed. Even for people who don’t love snorkeling, this lagoon stop can still be the highlight because it’s about stillness and the sense of arrival.

It’s also a spot where good behavior matters. You’ll be asked not to touch marine life or plants, and that rule is there for a reason: lagoon ecosystems can get damaged quickly. So think of Secret Lagoon as a place to watch and float, not explore with your hands.

The drawback is that this stop can feel like a “perfect moment” followed by “quick, back on the schedule.” That’s how shared tours work. If you want to linger for an hour, you may be happier choosing a private option.

Shimizu Island Snorkeling and Beach Time (Where the Day Cools Off)

After the lagoon segment, the tour shifts to Shimizu Island. It’s scheduled for about 105 minutes, which is a solid block for both relaxation and snorkeling time.

Why Shimizu Island is worth it: you get a beach break plus time in coral-rich waters. The tour includes snorkeling among colorful coral reefs and marine life, and the schedule gives enough time to actually enjoy it rather than treating it like a checklist.

Practical advice for you:

• Bring a hat and sunscreen. Shore time adds up fast when you’re off the water.
• If you’re considering snorkeling gear, it’s optional and offered for an extra fee. If you already have your own mask, snorkel, or fins, you’ll likely prefer using it for fit and comfort.
• If you don’t have aqua shoes, expect the shoreline to require some care. Aqua shoes are optional on the list.

Also, the rules matter here. You’re not allowed to touch marine life or plants. That can be hard if you’re tempted to grab what you’re seeing, but staying hands-off is the key to a coral-friendly snorkeling experience.

Lunch, Timing, and the Real Rhythm of a 7.5-Hour Day

This tour is listed as about 7.5 hours, with a return around 4:30 PM. That’s long enough for a full day on the water, but short enough that you’re still back in town before evening plans.

Lunch is included: a buffet lunch plus 300 ml of bottled water. That’s a meaningful value piece. Lagoon and snorkeling schedules can burn energy quickly, and having food taken care of spares you from hunting for snacks once you’re already wet and tired.

One timing thing to plan for: you’ll be outside for most of the day, often without the option to run back to shore for extras. So it’s smart to pack a small snack if you’re the type who gets hungry between stops. The tour lists snacks as a recommended bring, and I agree. It can turn the day from stressful to relaxed.

Also, weather affects these tours. There’s a weather advisory in the information, so don’t be shocked if your day adjusts when conditions change. In practice, you’ll want to stay flexible and keep your attitude simple: you came for nature, not a rigid timetable.

Price and Fees: How to Judge the True Value

The tour is advertised at $23 per person, which is pretty strong for a day that includes lagoon hopping plus Shimizu Island snorkeling time. But here’s the part people often miss: several costs are not included.

Not-included fees to budget for:

• Environmental fee: P400.00 (noted as valid for 5 days if you already paid; you’ll need the issued copy to show during checking)
• Big Lagoon entrance fee: P200.00
• Kayak rental: P300.00 (optional)
• Snorkeling gears: P100.00 optional
• Aqua shoes: P100.00 optional

So is it still good value? Usually, yes—if you budget correctly. The base price covers the guided stops and the included meal, and the snorkeling and lagoon circuit are the big-ticket experiences. If you end up paying multiple add-ons, your final cost creeps up. But even then, it can remain competitive compared with the cost of doing each lagoon or snorkeling stop separately.

The best move for you is to decide in advance what you truly need:

• If you already have snorkeling gear, skip the rental.
• If you don’t need a kayak, don’t add it just for the thrill.
• If you already paid the environmental fee earlier in your Palawan trip, carry the copy so you don’t pay twice.

Guides, Support, and What Good Communication Feels Like

This is an English-guided tour with a live guide. That matters because lagoon navigation is hands-on and time-sensitive. You want clear instructions about where to go, how to enter the water, and what not to do.

One review experience highlighted helpful staff support from Akingventures Travel & Tours, including a friendly contact named Mark who helped with registration and getting snorkeling gear. That kind of pre-tour and on-the-ground support is the difference between feeling lost and feeling taken care of.

It also came up that guides can respond carefully when weather isn’t ideal. That’s important in El Nido, where storms can show up fast. Your best attitude here is simple: trust the guide’s safety decisions, and treat adjustments as part of the deal, not a personal failure of the schedule.

I’ll also mention the one potential downside you should keep in mind: if boat equipment or operations run into problems, the day can stretch and communication can become patchy. You can protect yourself a bit by staying attentive, asking questions early, and being ready to wait calmly if replacements are needed.

What to Bring and What Not to Do in These Waters

This tour lists practical essentials. Use them:

• Hat
• Swimwear
• Camera
• Snacks
• Sunscreen
• Water

You’ll also want to keep a few behavior rules in your head the whole time:

• No touching marine life
• No touching plants
• No littering
• No smoking

This matters beyond ethics. When people touch corals or plants, the damage is immediate and sometimes long-lasting. Staying hands-off keeps the reefs healthy, and it makes the experience better for the next group too.

If you’re snorkeling, focus on looking, not grabbing. That one habit turns you into a better swimmer and a better guest.

Who This Tour A Suits Best

El Nido Tour A is a good fit if you want a packed day that still includes real breaks. You’ll probably enjoy it if you:

• want the Big Lagoon experience plus the more secluded feel of Secret Lagoon
• like snorkeling but don’t want to plan logistics across multiple operators
• appreciate guided time at Seven Commandos Beach rather than only water stops
• plan to be in El Nido for a short window and want a one-day hit list

If you dislike shared-group pacing, you might find the day moves fast. And if you’re extremely weather-sensitive, you should keep backup plans in your mind because conditions can affect what happens.

Should You Book El Nido Tour A?

Book it if you want a solid, classic El Nido route with Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, and Shimizu Island snorkeling, all wrapped into one guided day with lunch included. The price can feel like a bargain once you factor in guided access and the buffet meal, as long as you budget for the environmental fee and Big Lagoon entrance.

Skip or reconsider if you’re aiming for slow, private lagoon time, or if you hate extra fees and add-ons. Also, if you’re traveling with a strict timeline, keep some flexibility because weather and boat operations can change.

If you do book, do two things that make the day smoother: arrive early at Grounded Coffee, and pack what you need so you’re not scrambling for basics once you’re out on the water.

FAQ

What’s the meeting point for El Nido Tour A?

Meet at Grounded 100% Arabica Coffee, El Nido Branch (the meeting point is specified in the tour information).

How long is the tour?

The duration is listed as about 7 hours, and it’s also shown as 7.5 hours in the summary, with return around 4:30 PM.

What areas and activities are included?

The tour includes visits to Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, and Seven Commandos Beach, plus snorkeling at Shimizu Island.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is included as a buffet, along with 300 ml of bottled water.

What fees are not included in the price?

The environmental fee (P400.00 if not already paid), Big Lagoon entrance fee (P200.00), and optional rentals like kayak (P300.00), snorkeling gear (P100.00), and aqua shoes (P100.00).

Are there snorkeling gears provided?

Snorkeling gears are optional and can be rented for P100.00. The tour also advises bringing swimwear and sunscreen.

What’s the language of the guide?

The tour includes a live guide in English.

Are there any rules I need to follow?

You’re not allowed to smoke, litter, or touch marine life or plants.

What’s the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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