Philippines
El Nido, Palawan
Welcome to the Philippines! El Nido is a cluster of dramatic limestone islands rising straight out of bright turquoise water, hiding secret lagoons that boats can only reach through narrow rock openings.
Why is it famous?
El Nido sits on the northern tip of Palawan island, surrounded by dozens of small limestone islands with sheer cliffs.
Its hidden lagoons, like the Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon, are tucked behind rock walls and can only be reached by paddling through narrow gaps.
How was it formed?
The islands are made of ancient limestone that formed from coral and sea creatures millions of years ago.
Waves and rain slowly carved the soft rock into steep cliffs, hidden caves, and secret pools over thousands of years.
Amazing facts
El Nido means 'the nest' in Spanish, named after swiftlet birds that build edible nests in the island cliffs.
The surrounding waters are part of a protected marine reserve, home to sea turtles, clownfish, and coral reefs.
Quick facts
- El Nido means 'the nest' in Spanish, named after swiftlet birds that build edible nests in the island cliffs.
- The surrounding waters are part of a protected marine reserve, home to sea turtles, clownfish, and coral reefs.
- Some of the lagoons are so enclosed that the water inside stays perfectly calm even when the sea outside is choppy.
- Palawan has been named one of the most beautiful islands in the world by several travel magazines.