It’s true—there’s nowhere better to enjoy the natural beauty of the Philippines than El Nido, whether you’re partial to white sand beaches and sunny isles or limestone cliffs and faraway lagoons. And if you want to spend as much time in this Palawan destination as possible, why not sleep under the stars and enjoy the great outdoors 24/7? A camping or glamping experience may be perfect for you. Luckily, there are excellent camping sites in El Nido that could be your perfect home away from home.
7 Commandos Beach
An island paradise, El Nido is home to more sandy beaches than you can imagine. 7 Commandos Beach is one of the more popular ones; it’s part of what’s known as Tour A. While it’s technically part of mainland El Nido, there’s no way to access 7 Commandos by land. Instead, the beach is an easy boat ride from the downtown area.
The upscale Vellago Resort is located on the left side of this white sand beach but if you want to make the most of this unspoiled tropical idyll, camping is a good option. Food is limited, but there’s a small store selling fresh coconuts (with the option to add rum) and chips. There’s even a basketball-slash-volleyball court for pick-up games with fellow travelers!
Reach out to tour operators for camping options, or visit 7 Commandos as part of the El Nido Island Hopping Tour A.
Dryft Camp
Feeling like a castaway? Indulge in your own shipwreck adventure at the beautiful Dryft Camp in Darocotan Island, a blissfully remote island camp in northern El Nido. It may be far from the bustle of downtown, but that’s exactly the allure! With the island’s white shores, dazzling blue waters, and artsy dwellings, this campsite is a luxurious way to combine camping in nature and the comforts of resort living.
Pretty huts and tents are available, with comfy beds and sea-facing views. Expect repurposed island-style furnishings, from the salvaged bangka-turned-bar to hammocks made from recycled fishing nets and ropes. A definite highlight of every stay here is the restaurant, a stunning treehouse-style structure serving some of the freshest seafood the island has to offer.
Book your stay on the official website.
Aetas Glamping
Find a home in nature at Aetas Glamping El Nido, a tented campsite—or more accurately, glampsite—featuring cozy accommodations in the heart of the mountains. It’s about five to 10 minutes away from town, which is enough to feel a little distant from the rest of the tourists. Since this site is quite remote and there are limited glamping tents, Aetas Glamping feels a little bit like a private sanctuary away from the crowds.
Each tent is spacious and comfortable with large beds, private bathrooms, and a private deck with a breakfast table and a hammock. An outdoor swimming pool, a garden, and a bar are also available.
Nacpan Beach Glamping
The perfect white sands of Nacpan Beach is a must-visit destination in El Nido—and if you can spend a night or two in this beach paradise, wouldn’t it be great? Nacpan Beach Glamping is a great spot to sleep in beautifully appointed glamping tents. Each tent features two queen-size beds, designer seats, a refrigerator, a small safe, and super chic interiors. There’s even air-conditioning at night during the dry season! Truly, it’s a five-star experience amid unparalleled nature.
Resort-style grounds elevate this glamping spot from the usual wilderness experience. Key amenities include a swimming pool, a sprawling garden, and clean communal bathrooms and shower areas. Plus, the iconic Nacpan Beach is only a few meters away! Nacpan Beach Glamping is about 45 minutes from El Nido town, and about half an hour from Lio Airport.
Book your glamping trip on the official website, or join an El Nido inland day tour to see stunning shores including Nacpan Beach and Las Cabanas Beach.
Other great camping and glamping options in El Nido that have not resumed operations yet include The Birdhouse and Kanba El Nido Campsite. Keep an eye out for these amazing accommodations when you start planning your trip! Visit KKday for more camping adventures and other great travel deals.
*Featured photo via KKday Supplier, Dryft Camp, and Nacpan Beach Glamping
