17 BEST El Nido Resorts and Hotels (Luxury, Budget, Beachfront, Etc.)

El Nido, Palawan, is a tropical paradise located in the Philippines. With crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and stunning limestone cliffs, it’s no surprise that El Nido is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. There are many accommodations in El Nido, ranging from hostels and camping/glamping sites to luxury island resorts, but which ones are the best? In this article, we will explore some of the best El Nido resorts and hotels that you can choose from for your next trip to this beautiful province.

1. El Nido Resorts Lagen Island

Enjoy quiet luxury and nature at El Nido Resorts Lagen Island, an eco-sanctuary located in a cove overlooking Bacuit Bay. It is beside a 4-hectare lush forest home to various animals and birds, and as such the resort offers unique activities such as bird watching, mangrove exploration, and hiking through a forest trail to get to one of the coves offering amazing views.

Other activities include swimming, kayaking, diving, and windsurfing, as well as volleyball, table tennis, badminton, soccer, table soccer, Frisbee, and billiards. This luxury resort also has a kids activity center, a gym, and a spa.

Lagen Island has 51 rooms that are sustainably designed, fitted with modern amenities and a full-height sliding glass door that opens to a veranda. You can choose from Forest Rooms, Forest Suites, Water Cottages built on stilts above the water, and Beachfront Cottages.

2. El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island

El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island is an eco-luxury island resort located in front of a white-sand beach with a backdrop of a lush tropical forest. Here you can swim at the 750-meter pristine beach or snorkel at the marine sanctuary in front, enjoy luxurious amenities at the resort, and completely relax in one of its 42 deluxe accommodations. Also known as the “Island of the Sun,” this resort also offers breathtaking views of sunrise and sunset.

Other activities that you can do include swimming in the infinity pool, taking a private sunset cruise, enjoying a romantic dinner at the beach, or pampering yourself with treatments at their spa.

Accommodations include the Canopy Villas (also called treetop villas), Beach Villas, Pool Villas which have their own 22-sqm private pool, and Kalaw Villas which share a 85-sqm lap pool and lounge area.

3. Matinloc Resort

Located in the beautiful island of Matinloc, this luxurious resort is ideal for couples, families, and even corporate meetings.

For the ultimate comfort, choose any of their luxury villas: Beach Villas, Mountain Villas, and VIP Villas. Each luxury villa is fitted with premium amenities, state-of-the-art technology, and pristine views of the lush forests or the glimmering Palio Sea. Aside from luxury villas, there are also specialty suites ideal for couples, including: Junior Suites, Terrace Suites, Signature Suites, and Executive Suites.

Resort facilities include a private beach, oceanfront swimming pools, spa and massage facilities, a beachside restaurant a bar, a gym, and a library and recreational facilities. There is also a conference room that you can book for meetings.

Of the El Nido resorts and hotels in this list, Matinloc Resort offers some of the best activities. Go on island hopping tours to see best attractions in El Nido, rent a kayak or snorkel and visit neighboring beach coves (including Matinloc SandBar, Matinloc Wall/Cove, Calmung Beach, and Cagbantang Beach), trek through a nature trail to see wildlife and spectacular views, or go on fishing on the outer reefs. Finally, end your day with a luxurious treatment at the resort spa.

4. Cauayan Resort

Escape to a private paradise and enjoy laid-back luxury at Cauayan Resort, one of the best luxury resorts in El Nido. Choose one of their 21 luxury villas, designed with Filipino craftsmanship and fitted with modern comforts, including: Beach View Villas, Beach Front Villas, Water Villas, Lagoon Villas, and Cauayan Pool Villas.

Facilities include an infinity pool, a restaurant and bar, a spa, an activities center, a dive shop, and a boutique. Also included are transfer services, as well as butler service on demand.

At this resort, you can go on joiner or private island hopping excursions to see the turquoise waters, lagoons, and limestone cliffs of El Nido. You can also kayak, snorkel, dive, practice yoga on the beach, trek through two nature trails to reach the summit that offers a bird’s eye view of the resort, or book a sunset cruise where you can enjoy good cocktails while appreciating the colors of the setting sun.

5. Seda Lio

Looking for a top-notch hotel resort experience? One of the best resorts in El Nido that offers great value for money, Seda Lio is a beachfront property surrounded by lush greenery and a 4-km private beach with fine sand, boasting 153 rooms equipped with modern conveniences.

Guests at this hotel love its convenient location: It’s 5 minutes away from El Nido Airport, 20 minutes away from the town proper, and since it is located in a beachfront property, it is easily reached by boats offering tours to neighboring islands.

Rooms include Deluxe Garden Room, Deluxe Forest Room, Suite, and Seda Suite which is their top-of-the-line accommodation with its own living/dining room, kitchenette, bathroom and standalone bath tub, and extended balcony.

Resort facilities include their trademark restaurant Misto which offers breakfast buffet and ala carte local and international dishes, a pool bar, a swimming pool, a spa, a game room, a children’s playroom and a playground, bamboo bike, and various aqua sports. As with other Seda Hotels, Seda Lio also caters to corporate guests, offering a large function room good for 150 people and small rooms good for 15-40 people.

This resort also has access to the Lio Estate, a beach town offering dining, shopping, and outdoor activities. Island hopping and scuba diving activities can be easily arranged.

6. Vellago Resort

Enjoy your own slice of paradise at Vellago Resort, a boutique hotel resort located along Seven Commandos Beach which is known for its white sand, lush vegetation, and magnificent limestone rock formations. This hotel resort is accessible only by boat and has a total of 6 rooms, perfect for couples or those who want to experience El Nido away from the crowd.

You can choose from the Beach Villa, Beachview Suite, Honeymoon Suite, Queenroom, and Kingroom. Each booking comes with return boat transfer from Corong Corong to the resort and free breakfast.

Aside from enjoying the beach and the view from your own balcony, other activities you can do in this El Nido resort include kayaking, snorkeling, private island hopping tours, speedboat, and day tour to Linapacan. Each night, the resort also prepares a romantic beach setup where you can enjoy a fine beach ambience, delicious food including seafood, and cocktails and beers.

7. Cadlao Resort and Restaurant

Cadlao Resort and Restaurant is one of the best resorts in El Nido, known for their scenic views of the ocean and neighboring islands, as well as top-notch facilities and amenities.

Here you can relax in its two gorgeous swimming pools and lounge areas, enjoy an on-site massage, or walk to the town which is 10-15 minutes away by foot. There is also free tricycle transfer to Corong Corong, the main beach in El Nido.

Of course, a stay at Cadlao Resort won’t be complete without trying out the menu in their restaurant, which is often hailed as one of the best restaurants in El Nido. Indulge in local and international dishes or the “Catch of the Day” while enjoying the stunning views of Cadlao Island and Helicopter Island.

Accommodations include 25 elegant rooms inspired by traditional Filipino bungalows. Choose from the Deluxe Cottage, Seafront Suite, Poolside Cabana, Family Suite – Poolside, and Garden Cottage. Each one is equipped with modern amenities and private terrace.

8. Frangipani El Nido Resort

One of the highly recommended resorts in El Nido, Palawan, Frangipani El Nido Resort is a stunning beachfront resort where you can soak up the sun and enjoy panoramic views of Bacuit Bay. This resort only has seven rooms, which is ideal for guests who want exclusivity and personalized service by the staff.

Choose among the Panoramic Suite and Seaview / Pool Suite. You can also rent the whole villa, which is good for 16 up to 22 people. Each suite is fitted with modern amenities such as widescreen cable TVs, speakers, mini-bar, bathroom amenities, complimentary coffee and tea, free WIFI, daily breakfast, and shuttle service to/from Lio Airport.

Other facilities include a pool with direct beach access, a restaurant that serves comfort meals with a contemporary twist, and a lounge where you can enjoy cocktails while watching the sunset.

9. Lime Resort El Nido

Lime Resort El Nido offers an amazing resort experience in the midrange budget, making it one of the best El Nido resorts in terms of value for money. It has a swimming pool with a spectacular view, a rooftop with live music, themed parties where you can meet and vibe with other people, or spa and chill wellness programs for those who simply want to relax.

Its accommodations are fitted with modern conveniences, including airconditioning, smart cable TV, coffee and tea making facilities, mini-refrigeratorr, in-room safe, and bathroom with hot & cold shower. Choose from the Superior Room, Deluxe Room, Junior Suite, Premier Suite, Sky Suite, and Sky Villa.

10. Charlie’s El Nido

Charlie’s El Nido is an excellent hotel choice – it enjoys a secluded location but still accessible from the town proper, with clean & comfortable rooms, and reasonable rates.

It features 55 hotel rooms, a refreshing plunge pool, tropical gardens, an alfresco restaurant and lounge area, and a yoga studio. Dining options are plenty and include an all-day restaurant serving local and international dishes, a cocktail bar, a beach café offering comfort food as well as vegan & vegetarian options, and a baking studio where you can indulge in pastries, desserts, and fruit shakes.

Aside from this, this El Nido hotel also offers various water activities such as island hopping, scuba diving, sailing, and surfing at Duli & Lio Beach. Other recreational activities include private yoga, meditation, and sound healing classes; watercolor or acrylic painting classes; hiking and trekking; bird watching and mangrove tour; bicycle tour; and motorbike rental. Finally, they can also help you arrange a private flight so you can marvel at the beauty of Palawan from above.

Rooms include Superior Twin Room, Superior Queen Room, Deluxe Room, Deluxe Room with Pool Access, Family Room, Premier Room, and Charlie’s Villa which is a tropical villa with its own private pool and deck.

11. El Nido Coco Resort

El Nido Coco Resort is a laid-back resort located next to Corong Corong Beach, where you can enjoy a swim, watch sunset, or go on boat tours. It’s also close to the Marimegmeg/Las Cabanas Beach, the town proper, and the airport.

Aside from its convenient location, this El Nido resort offers different kinds of comfortable accommodations including Bungalows, Villa on the Beach, and Villas Deluxe which come with their own private pool jacuzzi.

Facilities include a swimming pool surrounded by tropical garden, a restaurant, a front beach bar and snack, and massage services.

12. El Nido Cuna Hotel

Located at the heart of El Nido town proper, El Nido Cuna Hotel offers convenient access to establishments in town including restaurants, bars, and shopping and is walking distance to the main beach for boat tours. It’s ideal for casual tourists in El Nido who wants a central location, good hotel amenities, and affordable rates.

This El Nido hotel also has a rooftop bar and dining area with spectacular views of the surrounding bay and mountains, an infinity pool, and excellent staff services.

13. El Nido Garden Resort

El Nido Garden Resort is a popular choice in El Nido, Palawan. It has a nice beachfront, a swimming pool with amazing views, a poolside bar for enjoying refreshing drinks during the summer, and close proximity to restaurants, bars, shops, and tourist attractions.

It has 63 well-appointed rooms designed with Filipino theme and fitted with modern amenities, which include Double Deluxe Poolside/Beachfront, Standard King Room, Standard Triple Room, Premium Seaview Room, Premium Twin Deluxe, and Premium King.

Facilities include a swimming pool, two restaurants, a lounge bar and a sky deck bar, room service, 24-hour front desk, and airport shuttle service. For groups, there is also a function room ideal for social and business functions that can seat up to 20-30 people.

14. Nacpan Beach Glamping

Experience glamping in one of the best beaches in El Nido. Nacpan Beach Glamping offers a total of nine glamping tents, located next to Nacpan Beach, where you can relax, take a stroll, and go on the occasional swim. You can also hike to one of the hills to see a panoramic view of the whole Twin Beach (which consists of Nacpan Beach on one side and Calitang Beach on the other).

Each tent at this glamping site is furnished with two queen-sized beds, a comfortable designer seat and a small table, a fridge freezer, bedside lamps, and fans. Airconditioning is available only at night during dry season. There are communal restrooms shared by the guests.

Aside from the accommodations, Nacpan Beach Glamping also has its own private pool and pool bar, meal services, romantic dinner arrangement, daily live band performances, and spa services. They can also help you arrange island hopping tours around El Nido.

15. Frendz Hostel El Nido

Frendz Hostel El Nido isn’t your ordinary hostel – it’s located in a prime location in the center of El Nido town proper, with great amenities, opportunities to meet new people, and best of all – affordable rates.

Accommodations include 6- and 8-Bed Dorm Rooms, a 6-Bed Standard Female Dorm, and Standard Room for those who prefer a private stay. This El Nido hostel also has a rooftop terrace with pool and bar where you can swim, chill, or even party with fellow travelers. An on-site restaurant serves delicious local and international cuisine.

16. Spin Designer Hostel

Spin Designer Hostel is an award-winning hostel in El Nido, designed by travelers for travelers. It’s located away from the town proper so you can enjoy a more relaxing stay and at the same time built with shared spaces so you can meet and mingle.

Accommodations include Private Bunk, Private Single, All-Female Dorm, and Mixed Dorm. This hostel also features The Nest — a lounge area with IG-worthy corners and perfect for co-mingling, an outdoor space for chilling and music, a garden and outdoor amphitheater, and a dining area.

Guests at this hostel can also use the pantry filled with basic kitchen amenities, self-service laundry facilities, sundown brewed coffee and local tea, and front deck assistance and tour bookings.

17. Mad Monkey Hostel Nacpan Beach

Mad Monkey Hostel is known for their affordable hostels around Asia, and this El Nido branch is no different. It’s ideal for budget tourists, as well as those looking to mingle with like-minded travelers.

This hostel is located right on the beautiful beach, so you can spend the day relaxing, swimming, or just soaking up the sun. You can also experience different adventures curated by the hostel, including full moon parties, music quiz nights, sunset cruises, and of course island hopping.

Facillities include a bar and restaurant, luggage storage, lock boxes, and sports such as beach volleyball. Accommodations include private lofts, dorms, and glamping tents.

That concludes our list of the best El Nido resorts and hotels! Do you have other recommendations? Let us know in the comments section below!

What to read next:

Visiting Palawan? Check out the rest of our guides in Palawan:

• Ultimate Guide to Palawan
• Top Things to Do in Palawan
• Best Beaches in Palawan

Puerto Princesa:

• Guide to Puerto Princesa Underground River
• Island Hopping in Honda Bay
• Best Resorts and Hotels in Puerto Princesa

Coron:

• Travel Guide to Coron
• Best Resorts in Coron Palawan

El Nido:

• Travel Guide to El Nido
• Best Resorts in El Nido Palawan

Balabac:

• Travel Guide to Balabac
• Island Hopping in Balabac
• Onuk Island

Port Barton:

• Travel Guide to Port Barton + 3 Days Itinerary
• Top Things to Do in Port Barton
• Island Hopping in Port Barton