Text and photos by Regina Gutierrez

Summer is here again! And what better way to spend your summer vacation than exploring the vast wonders of the Philippines’ very own El Nido, Palawan. You don’t need to go far to find paradise. El Nido is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.

This is the best place to create a one-of-a-kind getaway experience you’ll cherish for the rest of your life. Pure excitement and tremendous thrill— were the only feelings I had as I get on the boat to embark on my first tour package. As the boat started sailing, I could feel the fresh air touching my skin, see the crystal clear, teal-green water, and witness the tranquility of the blue sky. I cannot put into words the feelings I felt as the islands of El Nido unfold themselves in front of me.

First day.

My first destination is Seven Commando Beach. This is one of the best spots to chill and enjoy the dramatic scenery of what El Nido has to offer. Most tourists also like to go sunbathing and play sports here. The next stop is the Secret Lagoon. For non-swimmers like me, this can be a bit challenging. You’ll have to swim through a hole in a rock to go inside. The breathtaking rock formations will welcome you. It brings a serene feeling and a stunning view, especially the effects of the sun rays that entered the lagoon. My third destination is Shimizu Island, a popular spot for picnic lunches on the beach. While waiting for the food, you can do snorkeling and fish feeding. But if you want, you can sit under the shade of trees and take pictures while waiting for lunch.

This is also the best time to meet new friends and socialize with other tourists. For sure you’ll have something in common to talk about—the beauty of El Nido. After lunch, I’m ready and fired up to continue the adventure! My fourth stop is the Big Lagoon, which is one of my favorite destinations. This lagoon took my breath away. I was amazed that this kind of destination exists here in the Philippines. Any picture you see cannot translate the real splendor of this place. You have to witness for yourself to discover its greatness. The fifth and last destination is the Small Lagoon. You can go swimming or do kayaking to reach the small entranceway towards the waterfilled cave. It has one of the most awe-inspiring rock formations. Indeed, the Small Lagoon is the perfect way to end tour A.

Second day

I woke up at 6 a.m., took my breakfast, and went on my second adventure trip to El Nido! The itinerary includes Talisay Beach, Helicopter Island, Hidden Beach, Matinloc Island Shrine, and Secret Beach. First stop, Secret Beach! For me, this is the most challenging destination out of all the packages because I need to swim to get to the beach. I was hesitant at first because of the heavy weaves during that day, but my urge to witness the majestic beach pushed me to do it. One of the tourist guides helped me reach the inside of the beach. And I was very glad I did it. All the slamming of the waves was worth it! It was indeed a world-class tourist spot. After the Secret Beach, the next destination is Talisay Beach where we had our lunch. After lunch, we went to Hidden Beach. Same with the Secret Beach, you need to swim through a cliff to reach the beach.

I enjoyed watching different kinds of fish swimming in the clear, teal-green water. You can also sit back on the sand with the shade of the cliffs and look at the magnificent rocks surrounding the beach.

The fourth destination is the famous Matinloc Island Shrine. It has one of the best-overlooking views in El Nido. There is also an abandoned small museum that has a very intriguing vibe. The fifth and last stop, the Helicopter Island! This helicopter-shaped island is the final destination for my entire trip here in El Nido. I was a bit emotional during my stay on this island, simply because I will miss this beautiful paradise. I stayed on the shore and looked at the wonderful view of the sea. How I wish this trip never ends.

All in all, my vacation trip here in El Nido was life-changing. This place made me so proud to be living in this country and realize that summer is more fun here in the Philippines.