El Nido: Catamaran Island Hopping & Private Beach Lunch

Summary

Swim through El Nido’s lagoons and unwind at Star Beach with lunch

You’ll join a small group aboard a 50ft catamaran from El Nido Town, kayaking into Big Lagoon’s calm water, sharing lunch on exclusive Star Beach, and relaxing at Seven Commandos Beach with locals nearby. With a local guide leading each stop—and plenty of time to swim or nap—you’ll leave feeling sun-warmed and quietly amazed by El Nido’s island rhythm.

What’s the experience like?

I almost missed the meeting point because I got distracted by a street vendor selling mangoes outside the El Nido Yachting Club office. The morning felt sticky already, but once we stepped onto the Seacret catamaran, everything shifted—the boat smelled faintly of sunscreen and seaweed, and our guide Paolo grinned like he’d been waiting all week for this. He kept calling out names as we clambered aboard, mixing up “Sarah” and “Sara”—which somehow made it feel less like a tour and more like a group of friends who hadn’t met yet.

The first stop was Big Lagoon. You have to paddle in by kayak (they hand these out), and honestly, my arms weren’t ready for it. But gliding under those limestone cliffs—so close you could touch them if you stretched—was worth every sore muscle. Paolo pointed out tiny crabs scuttling over rocks while someone behind me tried to sing “Under the Sea.” There’s this hush inside the lagoon that makes you whisper without thinking. I still think about that silence.

Lunch was at Star Beach, which Paolo said is only for people on this El Nido catamaran tour. The sand felt almost powdery between my toes—nothing like what I’m used to back home—and the grilled fish tasted smoky with just a hint of ginger. I tried to ask one of the crew how they get supplies out here; he just laughed and waved toward another little boat bobbing nearby. After eating, some folks napped on towels while others snorkeled around coral that looked almost fake in how bright it was. I lost track of time completely.

We finished at Seven Commandos Beach where coconuts were stacked high near a volleyball net. A few locals joined our group for a quick game—I didn’t play (I’m hopeless) but cheered from the shade instead. On the ride back to town, sunburnt and salty, I realized I’d barely checked my phone all day—just watched limestone cliffs drift by as Paolo told stories about old shipwrecks in these waters. So yeah, not everything went smoothly (I dropped my sunglasses overboard), but honestly? That made it better somehow.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Island hopping and beach visits

• Meet at El Nido Yachting Club
• Visit Big Lagoon for swimming and kayaking
• Relax at Star Beach private island
• Explore Hidden Beach's natural infinity pool
• Chill at Seven Commandos Beach

Top questions

How many islands do you visit on this El Nido catamaran tour?

You’ll visit three to four islands or beaches per day due to local restrictions set by the Department of Tourism.

Is lunch included during the island hopping day trip?

Yes, lunch is included—usually served at Star Beach or Pasandigan private beach.

Where does the tour start in El Nido?

The meeting point is at El Nido Yachting Club’s Town Office in El Nido Town proper.

What days does the Seacret catamaran tour operate?

The tour runs Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9:00AM to 4:00PM.

Are towels provided on this island hopping trip?

Yes, towels are provided along with life jackets for all guests.

Can infants join this catamaran tour?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap during the trip.

Is hotel pickup included in this El Nido day trip?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at the Yachting Club office in town.

Are there any health restrictions for joining?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

What’s included

Your day includes access to private Star Beach or Pasandigan Beach just for your group, environmental fees covered upfront, personalized guidance from your local crew throughout each stop, fresh lunch served right on the sand (usually grilled seafood), plus towels and life jackets so you can relax between swims before heading back to El Nido Town in late afternoon.