El Nido: Hidden Beach & Helicopter Island Tour with Lunch

Summary

Discover secret beaches and limestone islands in El Nido

You’ll swim through limestone gaps into Hidden Beach, share grilled fish with locals on Talisay Beach, and snorkel around Helicopter Island’s wild coral gardens—all with pickup included. Expect laughter with your guide, sandy feet at lunch, and moments of quiet awe between island stops.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I almost skipped this El Nido tour because “popular” usually means crowded, but I’m glad I didn’t. We got picked up right from our guesthouse (which was handy since I’m not a morning person), and our guide—Joey—was already cracking jokes before we even left town. The boat ride out to the first stop was loud with the engine and salty wind, but there’s something about that mix of sunscreen and sea air that just wakes you up.

First up was Hidden Beach. You have to swim through this little gap in the rocks—nothing dramatic, but enough to make me laugh nervously. Joey swam ahead, calling back tips in Tagalog and English, and when we popped out on the other side it was just…quiet. The limestone cliffs felt huge around us, like walls. There were a few other groups but mostly it was just the sound of water slapping rocks and someone’s waterproof speaker playing old OPM songs somewhere down the beach. I tried to say “salamat” for helping me with my mask—Joey grinned and said my accent was “not bad for a foreigner.”

Talisay Beach came next, where we had lunch right on the sand—grilled fish, rice, mangoes so sweet they almost tasted fake. It wasn’t fancy but honestly? That’s what made it good. Some local kids were collecting shells nearby; one showed me a tiny crab before running off laughing when I jumped back (I’m not proud). After eating we just lay there for a bit, half asleep in the shade while the boat crew sang quietly under a tree.

Helicopter Island looked exactly like its name from far away—kind of funny how literal things are here sometimes. We snorkeled along the edge; saw bright corals and these blue starfish that looked unreal under the water. By then my skin felt tight from sun and salt but I didn’t really care. Heading back to El Nido town as the light started to change, I remember thinking: yeah, this is one of those days you keep replaying later when you’re stuck somewhere cold.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore El Nido's top beaches

• Visit Hidden Beach
• Swim at Secret Beach
• Relax at Talisay Beach
• Explore Helicopter Island

Top questions

What beaches are included in this El Nido tour?

This tour visits Hidden Beach, Talisay Beach, and Helicopter Island (Dilumacad Island).

Is hotel pickup included for this El Nido day trip?

Yes, free pickup is included if you’re staying in El Nido town.

Do you get lunch during the tour?

Yes, a buffet lunch is served on one of the beaches during the trip.

How long does it take to reach Helicopter Island?

The boat ride from El Nido town to Helicopter Island takes about 30-40 minutes depending on sea conditions.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

Yes, infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

Are service animals allowed on this island hopping tour?

Yes, service animals are permitted on this tour.

Can you use public transportation to reach the starting point?

Public transportation options are available nearby if you’re not using hotel pickup.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

The description doesn’t specify; check with your operator before booking.

What’s included

Your day includes free pickup from any hotel in El Nido town plus a simple grilled buffet lunch served right on Talisay Beach—expect fresh fish and fruit before heading back by boat after visiting all three islands.