Digital Nomad Guide to El Nido, Palawan, (revised)

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My Honest Take on El Nido as a Digital Nomad Spot

Ever feel like you need to trade your desk chair for a hammock, just for a week or two? I get it. As Jeff, the “chilled nomad,” I’ve spent years searching for places that nail the perfect blend of work and paradise. That search is exactly what brought me to El Nido, a little slice of heaven tucked away in Palawan, Philippines.

Let me tell you, it’s more than just pretty pictures of lagoons.

This place has a vibe. It’s a spot where you can have a productive morning and spend your afternoon exploring islands that look like they’re straight out of a movie. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything I learned during my time there, updated with my latest insights from 2025.

Key Takeaways From My Stay

• El Nido is a top-tier tropical workspace, but you have to know how to navigate it. It’s perfect for nomads who want adventure right outside their door.
• You can find everything from buzzing co-living spots to quiet private apartments. It really caters to whatever your work style is.
• Getting there is an adventure in itself, with options like flights or scenic ferries from places like Coron or Puerto Princesa.
• The internet has improved massively. While the old average was around 6Mbps, I was getting much better speeds in 2025, which was a pleasant surprise. The weather is warm year-round, usually hovering between 26°C to 35°C.

A Quick Overview of El Nido

El Nido isn’t just a beach town; it’s a collection of limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons, and some of the friendliest people I’ve met on my travels. It’s becoming a huge magnet for remote workers, and for good reason.

The whole area is buzzing with a creative energy that’s hard to describe. You can feel that local businesses are really starting to understand what we nomads need, with more cafes and dedicated workspaces popping up every year.

Why I Think El Nido is a Great Choice for Nomads

For me, El Nido hits all the right notes. It’s an inspiring place to get work done without feeling like you’re in a concrete jungle. The cost of living is reasonable, so you don’t have to stress about burning through your savings.

The community is a huge plus. I met so many interesting people, from freelance developers to online artists, all drawn to the same incredible lifestyle.

Plus, when you need to log off, the adventures are endless. Island hopping and diving are just the beginning. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why you chose this lifestyle in the first place.

Getting To El Nido

Your journey to El Nido is the first part of the adventure. You can fly into Puerto Princesa and take a van, or even catch a direct flight right into El Nido’s own airport if you want to save time.

Flights To Puerto Princesa

The most common route is flying into Puerto Princesa (PPS). In my experience, it’s usually the most budget-friendly option.

• Major Airlines: You’ll find daily flights from Manila and Cebu on carriers like Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia.
• Booking Tip: I always use a comparison site like Skyscanner or Expedia to snag the best deals, especially if I book a few weeks in advance.
• The Land Journey: Once you land at Puerto Princesa International Airport, you have a 5 to 6-hour van or bus ride ahead of you to get to El Nido.
• A Pro Tip: Grab a local SIM card at the airport right when you arrive. It makes coordinating your van pickup and staying connected from the get-go so much easier.

A Faster (But Pricier) Option: If you’re short on time, check out AirSWIFT. They operate the only commercial flights directly into El Nido’s Lio Airport (ENI) from Manila, Cebu, and other hubs. It costs more, but it turns a 6-hour van ride into a short tricycle trip to your hotel.

Private Transportation Options

Once you’re on the ground in Palawan, you have a few ways to get around. For the long haul from Puerto Princesa, a shared or private van is my go-to.

1. Shared Vans: This is the most popular choice. As of 2025, a seat in a shared van costs around 650-900 PHP. Companies like Lexxus Shuttle are reputable and you can often book them right at the airport.
2. Renting a Motorbike: For getting around El Nido itself, nothing beats a scooter. You can rent one for about $10 – $15 a day. It gives you the freedom to explore nearby beaches like Nacpan and Las Cabañas on your own schedule.
3. Local Transport: The town is filled with e-trikes (electric tricycles), which are perfect for short trips. Just be sure to agree on the fare before you hop in.

Ferry Services

If you’re coming from Coron, the ferry is a fantastic option. It’s a scenic journey that I highly recommend.

• Coron to El Nido: The fast ferry takes about 3.5 to 4 hours. In 2025, companies like Montenegro Shipping Lines charge around $46 (or about 2,800 PHP) for the trip.
• Booking Ahead: I can’t stress this enough, book your tickets in advance, especially during the peak season from December to May. These routes sell out fast.
• Weather Woes: Always keep an eye on the weather forecast. Ferries can be delayed or canceled due to rough seas, so a little flexibility in your travel plans is a good idea.

Weather And Climate – The Best Time to Visit

El Nido is a tropical paradise, which means it’s warm and humid pretty much all year. The average temperature sits comfortably between 26°C and 28°C.

The best time to visit, in my opinion, is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. You’ll get the most sunshine, which is perfect for island hopping and beach work sessions. April is the hottest month, so pack light!

That said, the rainy season from June to October has its own charm with lush green landscapes and fewer crowds. Just be prepared for occasional downpours. Palawan is thankfully not in the main typhoon belt, but storms can still cause travel disruptions.

Even with its remote feel, the internet here has become surprisingly reliable for work. On my last visit in 2025, I found the connection solid enough for video calls and regular work tasks, a huge improvement from years past.

Accommodation Options For Digital Nomads – Where I’ve Stayed in El Nido

Whether you’re on a tight budget or looking for a bit more comfort, El Nido has a spot for you. I’ve tried a mix of places, and each offers a unique experience.

Co-living Spaces

Co-living is a fantastic way to meet other nomads. These places combine your living and working space, creating an instant community.

1. Frontier Coworking & Coliving – Right on Nacpan Beach, this spot is perfect if you want to be a little outside the main town and wake up to the sound of waves.
2. Outpost Beach Hostel – Located on Las Cabanas Beach, it has a legendary social vibe and a workspace with one of the best sunset views you’ll ever find.
3. Lexias Hostel and Workspace El Nido: A great option with sweeping views of the bay, Lexias offers both indoor and outdoor workspaces just a short walk from the beach.

Budget-friendly Hostels

If you’re looking to save money and be social, a hostel is the way to go. I’ve had some great times at these spots.

• The Outpost Beach Hostel: Yes, it’s on the list twice! It’s just as popular with backpackers as it is with nomads, thanks to its rooftop bar and social events.
• Spin Designer Hostel: This place is known for its cool, modern design and amazing community atmosphere. They often organize group dinners and activities.
• Mad Monkey Hostel Nacpan Beach: If you want a party vibe on one of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines, this is your spot. It’s a bit of a trek from town, but totally worth it.
• Our Melting Pot: A very friendly and central hostel in El Nido town, known for its communal vibe that makes it easy to meet fellow travelers.

Private Villas and Apartments

Sometimes you just need your own space to focus. El Nido has a growing number of apartments and villas perfect for longer stays.

Here are a few places that offer a more private setup:

1. Coral Cliff Suites – These are modern, fully furnished apartments that are just a short walk from the main beach. Having a kitchenette is a game-changer for saving money on food.
2. Lio Villas Resort – Located in the more upscale Lio Beach area, these villas offer a touch of luxury with private pools and easy access to a cleaner, quieter beach.
3. Cuna Hotel & Garden Resort – This spot offers spacious suites surrounded by beautiful gardens, giving you a peaceful escape from the bustle of the town center.
4. Sei Nazioni Cottages – For a more traditional Filipino experience, these cottages are a fantastic choice. They’re in a quiet area but still close enough to everything you need.

My advice for finding an apartment is to check Airbnb for monthly rates or even join some local El Nido Facebook groups where people post listings. You can often find better deals that way.

Connectivity In El Nido – My Tips for Finding Good Wifi

Let’s talk about the number one concern for every digital nomad: internet. I’m happy to report that the situation in El Nido has gotten so much better, but you still need a strategy.

Wi-Fi Availability and Quality

You can find Wi-Fi in most cafes, restaurants, and hotels. However, the quality can be unpredictable. Power outages still happen, though they’re less frequent than they used to be.

A 2022 study noted that internet speeds could be a challenge, but from my 2025 visit, I can say things have improved. Many places now have fiber internet. A game-changer has been the introduction of Starlink in some establishments, offering much faster and more reliable connections. Always ask your accommodation if they have a backup generator and fiber internet before booking!

Purchasing a Local SIM Card

This is non-negotiable for me. Having a local SIM card is your best backup and often your primary connection. The two main providers are Globe and Smart.

• Which to Choose: I found that Globe generally has better coverage in and around El Nido town and the main beaches.
• Where to Buy: You can get a SIM at the airport in Puerto Princesa or Manila, or at dozens of small convenience stores in El Nido town.
• Data Packages: Both providers offer affordable prepaid data packages. For example, you can get a promo with several gigabytes of data valid for a week for just a few dollars. This gives you the freedom to work from almost anywhere, even a quiet spot on the beach.

Top CoWorking Spaces In El Nido

Sometimes you just need a dedicated space to get into a deep work session. El Nido’s coworking scene is growing, and there are a few solid options as of 2025.

Neighbors and Nomads

Opened in early 2025, Neighbors and Nomads is a fantastic new addition located at Townsquare. It was designed specifically for digital nomads, offering high-speed fiber internet, soundproof booths for calls, and ergonomic chairs. They also have an on-site café and host networking events, which is great for connecting with the local nomad community.

Masayana

Masayana is a boutique hotel with a cozy coworking space that’s perfect for focused work. It’s air-conditioned, has backup power, and offers high-speed Wi-Fi for up to 8 people. You can pay by the hour (100 PHP) or get a day pass (350 PHP). It’s a great spot if you need a quiet, reliable environment.

FRENDZ

FRENDZ is more than just a hostel; its coworking space is praised for having a stable fiber connection with speeds up to 300 Mbps. It’s a great place to work if you enjoy a more social and vibrant atmosphere, with the beach right at your doorstep.

Best Places To Work From In El Nido

Beyond the official coworking spaces, I found some of my best workdays happened in more casual settings with incredible views.

Beachfront Cafes

There’s nothing quite like answering emails with your feet in the sand. El Nido has some amazing cafes perfect for a work session.

1. The Birdhouse Restaurant: Perched on a hill overlooking the water, the view here is absolutely unbeatable. The coffee is excellent, and it’s a peaceful spot to focus.
2. Panorama: Located on the popular Marimegmeg Beach, this place lives up to its name. It has fast Wi-Fi and is an incredible spot to work from in the afternoon and catch the sunset.
3. Botanica El Nido: This cafe is praised by nomads for its quiet atmosphere and some of the best coffee and pastries in town.
4. Cana Cafe: A solid choice right in El Nido town with good coffee and reliable Wi-Fi, perfect for getting things done between your island adventures.

Nature Reserves

While you won’t find Wi-Fi in the reserves themselves, they are the perfect places to disconnect and recharge. My workflow often involved a focused morning of work followed by an afternoon adventure.

• El Nido Marine Reserve Park: This massive protected area is where all the island hopping tours take place. It’s home to over 800 species of fish.
• Taraw Cliff Protected Landscape: For the adventurous, the hike up Taraw Cliff offers a breathtaking view of Bacuit Bay. I highly recommend hiring a local guide for this as the climb is challenging but so rewarding.
• Nacpan-Taytay Managed Resource Protected Area: Home to the stunning Nacpan Beach, this is a must-visit. You can spend the day exploring the long stretch of sand and working from a nearby cafe.

Island Hopping Boats

You can’t come to El Nido and not go island hopping. It’s the main event! While you probably won’t be working on a group tour, the experience is the ultimate reward for a productive work week.

The tours are standardized into four main options: A, B, C, and D.

• Tour A: This is the most popular, famous for its lagoons like the Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon. Perfect for kayaking.
• Tour B: Takes you to unique spots like Snake Island and Cudugnon Cave.
• Tour C: My personal favorite, with incredible snorkeling at places like Hidden Beach and Secret Beach.
• Tour D: A more relaxed tour focusing on beautiful beaches like Cadlao Lagoon.

All group tours leave from the main beach around 9 AM. A little tip from my experience: consider chartering a private boat with a few other nomads. It costs more, but you can customize your itinerary and leave earlier to beat the crowds. As of 2025, group tours cost around 1,800 PHP per person, while a private boat can start from 12,000 PHP.

Dining And Drinking Options In El Nido

The food scene in El Nido is a great mix of local Filipino flavors and international cuisine. Plus, many places now offer Wi-Fi, making them perfect for a casual work lunch.

Restaurants With Wi-Fi

I’ve spent many afternoons working from a restaurant with a great view and a good connection. Here are some of my top spots:

1. Art Cafe – A true El Nido institution. It’s a reliable spot for both food and internet, and they can help you with travel bookings too.
2. Republica Sunset Bar – Located near Las Cabañas, this place is famous for its Spanish tapas and incredible sunset views. It’s a fantastic place to wrap up the workday.
3. Trattoria Altrove – If you’re craving some of the best pizza you’ll ever have, this is the place. Their Wi-Fi is solid, making it a popular spot for nomads.
4. H Hotel El Nido – This hotel has a great vegan restaurant with a reliable internet connection, which is a fantastic find for plant-based travelers.

Local Cuisine And Delicacies

You have to dive into the local food! Palawan’s cuisine has a lot of Spanish and Asian influences, with a heavy focus on fresh seafood.

Here are a few dishes you must try:

• Kinilaw – This is the Filipino version of ceviche. It’s raw fish cured in vinegar with onions, ginger, and chili. Incredibly fresh and delicious.
• Adobo – A classic Filipino dish. I’ve had it with both chicken and pork, marinated in soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic. It’s comfort food at its best.
• Lechon Kawali – Crispy, deep-fried pork belly. It’s indulgent and absolutely worth it.
• Halo-halo – The ultimate Filipino dessert. It’s a wild mix of shaved ice, sweet beans, fruits, and ice cream. Perfect for a hot day.

Nightlife

When the work is done, El Nido has a fun and laid-back nightlife scene. It’s not a wild party island, but there are plenty of great spots to grab a drink and socialize.

You can start with sunset drinks at a beach bar like SAVA Beach Bar or Coco Bar, which often have live music. For a more energetic vibe, Pukka Bar is a local legend known for its reggae music and lively dance floor.

If you’re looking for something more relaxed, many cafes stay open late and offer a cozy atmosphere for a quiet evening. In my experience, the nightlife here is more about good conversations and live music than all-night raves.

Activities For Digital Nomads In El Nido

The best part about working in El Nido is the incredible array of activities waiting for you when you close your laptop. It’s the perfect place to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Island Hopping Tours

This is the number one activity in El Nido. I’ve done all the main tours, and each one is a unique adventure.

• Unforgettable Scenery: You’ll see stunning limestone cliffs, swim in crystal-clear lagoons, and relax on hidden beaches.
• Customizable Experience: While the four main tours (A, B, C, D) are standard, chartering a private boat lets you create your own perfect day.
• Must-See Spots: Don’t miss exploring the lagoons on Matinloc Island or relaxing on the white sands of Pinagbuyutan Island.
• A Tip from Me: The group tours are fun, but the real magic is finding a secluded spot with a private boat before the crowds arrive.

Scuba Diving And Snorkelling

The waters around El Nido are teeming with life, making it a world-class diving destination.

• Vibrant Marine Life: You can expect to see sea turtles, colorful reef fish, and maybe even manta rays. The coral reefs here are some of the healthiest in the Philippines.
• Top Dive Sites: Some of the most popular spots include South Miniloc, North Rock, and the Dilumacad Tunnel.
• Great for All Levels: Whether you’re a seasoned pro or want to get certified, there are plenty of reputable dive centers like El Dive and Palawan Divers. A 3-dive day trip in 2025 will cost you around 5,200 to 6,000 PHP.
• Snorkeling Hotspots: Even if you don’t dive, the snorkeling in places like Small Lagoon and Big Lagoon is absolutely incredible.

Trekking And Hiking

If you need a break from the beach, the hiking trails around El Nido offer some epic views.

1. The Taraw Cliff – This is a challenging but short climb that gives you the most iconic postcard view of El Nido town and the bay. You must hire a guide for this.
2. Nagkalit-kalit Waterfall – A more relaxed hike through the jungle that ends with a refreshing swim in a natural pool.
3. Lio Beach to Nacpan Beach – This is a longer coastal trek for those who want to see more of the stunning coastline on foot.

Yoga And Wellness Retreats

El Nido is a great place to focus on your well-being. The tranquil environment is perfect for yoga and meditation.

• Namaste El Nido Yoga & Spa: This is one of the most popular spots in town, offering daily yoga classes for all levels, as well as spa treatments.
• Island Hopping Yoga: Some tour operators have started offering unique yoga sessions on secluded beaches at sunrise or sunset. It’s an unforgettable experience.
• Healthy Cafes: You’ll find a growing number of cafes that serve healthy options like smoothie bowls, fresh juices, and vegan dishes to complement your wellness routine.

Cultural Events And Festivals

While El Nido is more known for nature than big festivals, there are still some cool local events to check out.

• Nacpan Beach Festival: If you’re around in November, this music festival is a great time, featuring local and international bands right on the beach.
• Coconut Festival: Celebrated in August, this is a fun local event that honors the importance of the coconut with food fairs and street parades.
• Baragatan sa Palawan: This is a province-wide festival in June celebrating Palawan’s founding anniversary, with cultural shows and parades.

Safety And Health Precautions For Digital Nomads In El Nido

El Nido is generally a very safe place, but like anywhere, it’s smart to be prepared. Here are some tips based on my experience.

Safety Tips And Emergency Contacts

The crime rate is very low, but it’s always good to be cautious.

• Secure Your Valuables: Use the safe in your hotel for your passport and extra cash. Don’t leave your laptop or phone unattended on the beach.
• Be Aware at Night: While the town is safe, it’s wise to stick to well-lit areas if you’re walking alone after dark.
• Travel Insurance: This is a must. I never travel without it. Get a policy that covers medical emergencies and water sports.
• Emergency Number: The local police and emergency services can be reached, but it’s best to have the contact info for the local tourist police office handy.

Healthcare Facilities And Services

Healthcare in El Nido is basic, so for anything serious, you’ll need to be prepared to travel.

• Local Clinics: There are a few private clinics in town, like the Adventist Hospital Palawan Clinic and Healthway Medical Clinic, that can handle minor illnesses and injuries.
• Hospital: The El Nido Community Hospital is located about 30-45 minutes outside the main town and can provide basic care.
• Serious Emergencies: For major medical issues, the best hospitals are a 5-hour drive away in Puerto Princesa. This is why travel insurance is so important.
• Health Tip: Stick to bottled or filtered water and be generous with insect repellent, especially during the rainy season, to avoid dengue fever.

Environmental Concerns

As visitors, we have a responsibility to help protect this beautiful place. The local government is very proactive about conservation.

• Eco-Tourism Fee: All tourists are required to pay an Eco-Tourism Development Fee (ETDF). As of a 2024 update, this fee is 400 PHP per person and is used to fund conservation projects. It’s typically valid for 10 days.
• Avoid Single-Use Plastics: You’ll notice a ban on single-use plastic water bottles on all island hopping tours. Bring your own reusable water bottle; it’s a simple way to make a big difference.
• Respect Wildlife: When you’re snorkeling or diving, look but don’t touch. Be mindful not to damage the coral or disturb the marine life.

Conclusion And Final Recommendations For Digital Nomads In El Nido

So, what’s my final verdict on El Nido? It’s an absolutely incredible destination for digital nomads who prioritize lifestyle and adventure over a bustling city hub.

It’s a place that forces you to slow down, appreciate the natural beauty around you, and find a healthier work-life balance.

Final Thoughts On El Nido As A Digital Nomad Destination

I think El Nido is a must-visit for any nomad exploring Southeast Asia. The combination of stunning scenery, a friendly community, and a relaxed pace of life is hard to beat.

The improving infrastructure, especially the internet, makes it more viable than ever for long-term stays. It truly offers a unique chance to work from a place that feels like a permanent vacation.

Tips For Making The Most Out Of Your Stay In El Nido.

To really enjoy your time here, my biggest piece of advice is to embrace the island mindset. Things might not always go according to plan, a power outage might interrupt your work, or a tour might get cancelled due to weather.

Just roll with it. Having a portable power bank and a mobile data plan is a smart move to stay productive. But also, don’t forget to close the laptop and just be present.

Take the time to explore beyond the main town. Rent a scooter and find your own hidden beach. Chat with the locals. Go on that last-minute dive trip. That’s where the real magic of El Nido is found.

FAQs:

1. What type of visa is required to work remotely from El Nido as a digital nomad?

Most visitors can enter the Philippines with a 30-day tourist visa waiver. You can then extend this at an immigration office for a longer stay. While the Philippines is exploring a specific digital nomad visa, for now, most nomads use the tourist visa extension process.

2. Is there reliable internet access in El Nido?

It has improved significantly! Many cafes, hotels, and coworking spaces now offer reliable fiber internet. However, I strongly recommend getting a local SIM card (Globe or Smart) with a data package as a dependable backup.

3. How affordable is it for digital nomads to live in El Nido?

El Nido is quite affordable. You can find budget-friendly hostels for around $15-$20 a night and enjoy delicious local meals for under $5. If you opt for a private apartment and eat at more tourist-oriented restaurants, your costs will be higher, but it’s still very reasonable compared to Western destinations.

4. Are there any coworking spaces available in El Nido?

Yes, the scene is growing! As of 2025, there are great options like Neighbors and Nomads and Masayana, which are dedicated coworking spaces. Many hostels like FRENDZ and Lexias also have excellent workspaces for remote workers.

More Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are some popular destinations in the Philippines for digital nomads?

Besides El Nido, many digital nomads love Siargao for its surf culture, Cebu for its mix of city life and beaches, and Boracay for its stunning White Beach and lively atmosphere.

2. How is the wifi in the Philippines?

It varies greatly by location. Major cities and tourist hotspots like El Nido have seen huge improvements with fiber internet becoming more common. In more remote, rural areas, you should expect a much slower and less reliable connection.

3. What are some options for accommodation in El Nido?

You have a huge range of choices. I’ve seen everything from social backpacker hostels like Mad Monkey and Spin Designer Hostel to luxurious private resorts. For longer stays, many nomads find private apartments through Airbnb or local Facebook groups.

4. What is island hopping and how can I do it in El Nido?

Island hopping is the main attraction! It involves taking a boat tour for the day to visit several of the stunning islands and lagoons in Bacuit Bay. You can easily book a standard group tour (A, B, C, or D) from any tour operator in town or charter a private boat for a more customized experience.

5. How is the cost of living for digital nomads in the Philippines?

The cost of living is one of the biggest draws. It’s generally very low. In El Nido, you can live comfortably on a modest budget, with cheap street food, affordable transportation via tricycle, and a wide range of accommodation prices.

6. Is there a digital nomad community in the Philippines?

Yes, and it’s growing fast! Places like El Nido, Siargao, and Cebu have vibrant communities. The best way to connect is by staying at co-living spaces, working from coworking hubs, and joining local digital nomad Facebook groups.