small lagoon

El Nido, Palawan
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The Small Lagoon is a little pocket of water, sort of like a private pool, accessible through a small opening between the limestone rocks. The lagoon can be reached by swimming or kayaking only. No boats could get into it as the opening is only about 2-3 feet wide. 

When the boat stopped and the tourist guide told us that we just arrived in Small Lagoon, I actually thought that we were already in the lagoon. That was just the parking spot. He asked us to follow him into that small opening and what we saw after left us speechless. It was probably the best lagoon I've ever been to. It was hidden, secluded, private, small and intimate, and looked very much like the lagoon in "The Beach". The water was turquoise in color and was very clear even when it was drizzling.  The limestone karst was filled with greeneries which stood out against the grey rocks. 


During our visit, which was in July, the water was about 5-7 meters deep. It could get deeper and shallower than this, depending on the month of the year and time of the day. Within the lagoon, the water could get very cold since it is an isolated part of the sea and fishes are not as plenty, or at least I did not notice any as I was too much focused on the beauty of the lagoon from above the water.

Our tourist guide even suggested to take a picture of us from above the rocks, capturing the entirety of the lagoon. But the rocks were too slippery because it's been raining since the morning and we did not have enough time. It would have been more better experience if we could climb up the rocks and jump, although I'm not sure if the tourist guides would allow that.

tips:

  • Don’t forget to bring an underwater camera (you won't forgive yourself if you do) since you need to swim or kayak into the lagoon. Outrigger boats are not able to enter the lagoon due to the size of the opening. The lagoon is such as magnificent place and you wouldn't wanna miss that. If you do not have an underwater camera, at least make sure that one of your travel buddies has one. Worst case scenario, rent.
  • Fishes are present in the lagoon so don’t forget to bring your snorkeling gears or goggles, as well. You might not be able to use it in the end because the lagoon is so much beautiful from above the water but at least, you got one, just in case.
  • Ziplock bags would also come in handy if you would like to bring your mobile phone and your regular (not underwater/not waterproof) camera. This is kind of similar to my bullet #1. Bottom line, just bring a darn camera!
  • Conversations would also echo so keep your voice down if you do not want attention from strangers or if you're telling someone a deadly secret. :)
  • Look for the Virgin Mary above the rocks or ask your tourist guide. They would usually point it out but in case they forget, ask.

how to get there

Manila to Puerto Princesa: 
AirAsia and Cebu Pacific Air fly from Manila to Puerto Princesa 4 times daily.
Philippine Airlines flies from Manila to Puerto Princesa twice daily through PAL Express.
Travel time usually takes 1.5 hours.

Puerto Princesa to El Nido:
There are several transportation options going to El Nido: 
  1. By public utility bus: P350 (travels only in the morning)
  2. By RORO bus: P450 to P500 for an air-conditioned bus (Best option if you're traveling alone)
  3. By public utility van: P600 to P700 
  4. By private van: Rent for P13,000 to P15,000 back and forth trips (Best option if you're traveling with more than 10 pax in a group)

Travel time usually takes about 5-6 hours depending on traffic and mode of transport.The public utility vehicles going to El Nido are all in San Jose Terminal. To reach San Jose Terminal, you can ride a jeep/multi-cab going to San Jose Public Market. Ask the driver to drop you off at the San Jose Terminal. You can also go to the terminal by tricycle.

where to stay in el nido

You can also visit my compilation of cheap accommodations in El Nido for less than P1,500 per night or use the search box below.

damage/expenses**

El Nido island hopping tours are more organized and priced at a standard rate, unlike other island hopping tours in the country. You can always negotiate depending on the number of pax in your group.

  • Small Lagoon is part of Island Hopping Tour A which costs P1,200 per head, inclusive of the tour, the outrigger boat, lunch and life jackets.
  • P200 Eco-Tourism Development Fund which acts like a entrance fee to El Nido and can be used up to 10 days
  • Rental fee of underwater camera (price depends on tour shop)
  • Rental fee of snorkeling gear (usually priced at P200 for the entire day)
  • Tip to the tour guide and the boatman
**These were the prices during our visit in July 2014

arrange for your tour

You can always arrange an island hopping tour with your hotel/inn but if you would like to arrange this online prior to your visit, you can do so through our contact Ate Beth at +63(927)5460691. She has a big boat that can accommodate more than 10 people.
If you have any comments or questions, feel free to post them here: