"Island Hopping Boat Trips" El Nido Things to Do Tip by TonyBagnall

Day long boat trips are the thing to do, esp if you are based in town. They have organised them into set trips in town. There are three day long trips (universally called A, B and C) and one half day trip (err..D?). Full day trips include a nice lunch on a beach.

Trip A goes to small and big lagoon and a couple of beaches. The lagoons are limestone Karsts, similar to those to be found in thailand and vietnam, but these are the only ones I've been to you can actually swim into. Trip B goes around the southern bit (around lagan). Trip C goes up to secret beach (further). Judith has more info

http://www.geocities.com/elnidoboutiqueandartcafe/island.html

Snorkelling is ok, but beaches are the truly outstanding feature. Secret beach is well worth the long trip, I will say no more about it though, best to be a surprise. I'd also recommend the half day trip, helicopter island esp impressive.

Trips cost between 500-1000 pesos, snorkel and flipper hire usually extra. The boat guys actually operate a cartel, with a queuing system for boat men, so I dont think it makes a huge difference who you book with.

Directions: We booked our trips at the Art Cafe.