Paddle boarding El Nido, Palawan

Written by Robyn Dawson / June 2021

Often voted as one the ‘best islands in the world’ the white-sand beaches and coral reefs that make up Palawan and the surrounding islands, will have you thinking you’ve died and gone to SUP-heaven. And, with plenty of dive sites dotted around the lagoons too, you can soak up the beautiful surroundings from both above, and below the water.

El Nido is a Philippine municipality on the island of Palawan and is known as the gateway to the Bacuit archipelago, a simply stunning group of islands with steep karst cliffs that make a perfect place for paddling around the hidden coves on your paddle board.

Highlights

El Nido is a great SUP location no matter what your paddling ability. There are sheltered lagoons with flat and clear waters which are perfect for beginners looking to improve their technique or just paddle and explore hidden coves with ease.

The bays around El Nido are well well-looked-after. Motorized vehicles are restricted here, which preserves the crystal clear, calm waters and there are no limitations to paddle boarding Palawan – just keep your leash and your lifejackets with you, paddle out and explore this dream SUP location till your hearts content.

The sheltered lagoons also make a perfect location for yoga on your paddle board. Stretch your mind and body and embrace the true beauty of these islands and try some SUP Yoga at sunrise. Be sure to pack an Active yoga stand up paddle board for this trip, as we promise you’ll love seeking out those perfect nooks and lagoons to relax and improve your practice.

Local knowledge

Sat nav
11.153024624424832, 119.42563290304132
Nearest parking

Puerto Princesa Airport - El Nido.
Most resorts are accessed by boat only.
Launch point

Launch at the water’s edge from your resort.
If you want to take your time and make the trip more Filipino, then hop on one of the large Banca boats. Sporting a thin central hull and two outrigger poles, Banca’s are designed to make islands hopping a breeze, getting close to the island banks which grow and recede with the tides. Banca shuttles are more weather dependent, so cancellations are quite common on this main route.
Places to stay

The resorts of EL Nido exercise a strong commitment to sustainability with an aim to preserve its flourishing and diverse environment. Many of the resorts are accesses only by boat so make perfect launch points for paddle boarding.
El Nido Cove beach front accommodation with a stunning beach-view pool, light and airy rooms with surrounding gardens, a perfect spot to relax and unwind after a long day paddling.
The El Nido resort of Miniloc Island offers eco-friendly, back to basics accommodation, with rooms furnished with traditional Filipino materials. This is the perfect gateway to explore the large and small lagoons, you can easily launch your paddle board from the resort and explore.
Places to eat and drink

El Nido town has a great range of restaurants and bars which are open into the night and the locals will be happy to offer their recommendations.