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Writer's pictureNatalie Tarin

8 Hidden Gem Accommodations in El Nido: Escape the Crowds and Discover Paradise [2024]

Updated: Jun 15

El Nido, Palawan, is renowned for its stunning lagoons, limestone cliffs, and vibrant marine life. While the island's popularity is well-deserved, it also means that the more well-known resorts and hotels can get crowded, especially during peak season.

But fear not, fellow adventurers! El Nido still holds a treasure trove of hidden gem accommodations in El Nido that offer a more secluded, authentic, and unforgettable experience. These unique stays allow you to escape the hustle and bustle of the tourist areas and connect with the island's natural beauty on a deeper level.

Here are some of El Nido's best-kept secret accommodations, blending Booking.com finds with your special requests:


  1. Isla - The Island Experience: Ultimate Seclusion and Luxury


Hidden Gems El Nido

Isla is a private island resort offering the epitome of exclusivity and luxury. With just a handful of villas, each designed for utmost privacy and comfort, you'll feel like you have your own slice of paradise. Enjoy world-class amenities, personalized service, and the unique experience of having an entire island to yourself.


Why We Love It:

  • Private Island: Escape to a secluded haven with pristine beaches and untouched nature.

  • Luxurious Villas: Indulge in spacious and elegantly designed villas with private pools.

  • Personalized Service: Experience unparalleled hospitality and attention to detail. Book your best-priced accommodation here.

  1. Dryft Darocotan Island: Sustainable Luxury in a Hidden Paradise  Opens in a new


Hidden Gems El Nido

Dryft Darocotan Island is a sustainable luxury resort nestled on a private island. With its focus on environmental responsibility and community engagement, this hidden gem offers a guilt-free escape. Enjoy stylish accommodations, farm-to-table cuisine, and a range of eco-friendly activities.


Why We Love It:

  • Sustainable Practices: Support eco-conscious tourism and minimize your environmental impact.

  • Secluded Location: Retreat to a private island paradise away from the crowds.

  • Luxurious Amenities: Indulge in stylish villas, delicious food, and relaxing spa treatments.


  1. Domes and Dreams Lio Glamping:Unique Glamping Experience in El Nido  


Hidden Gems El Nido

Domes and Dreams Lio Glamping offers a unique glamping experience in El Nido. Their stylish domes are nestled in a lush garden setting, providing a comfortable and eco-friendly way to connect with nature. Enjoy private bathrooms, outdoor showers, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.


Why We Love It:

  • Unique Accommodation: Experience the novelty and comfort of glamping in a stylish dome.

  • Eco-Friendly: Support sustainable tourism practices and minimize your environmental impact.

  • Peaceful Atmosphere: Relax and unwind in a tranquil garden setting.



  1. Cauayan Island Resort: Private Island Luxury with Water Villas  


Hidden Gems El Nido

Cauayan Island Resort boasts luxurious water villas that offer the ultimate in privacy and seclusion. Each villa features a private deck with direct access to the sea, a plunge pool, and stunning views of the surrounding islands. Guests can enjoy a range of activities, from island hopping to spa treatments, or simply relax and soak up the sun.


Why We Love It:

  • Luxury Water Villas:  Experience the pinnacle of overwater living with spacious villas, private pools, and breathtaking views.

  • Private Island:  Enjoy the exclusivity and tranquility of a secluded island retreat.

  • Range of Activities: From water sports to spa treatments, there's something for everyone at Cauayan Island Resort.



5. Inigtan Lio Bamboo Cottages:Eco-Friendly Bamboo Retreat


Hidden Gems El Nido

Inigtan Lio Bamboo Cottages offers a unique and eco-friendly stay in cozy bamboo cottages surrounded by lush greenery. Each cottage features a private terrace where you can relax and enjoy the sounds of nature.


Why We Love It:

  • Eco-Friendly: The cottages are built with sustainable bamboo, minimizing their environmental impact.

  • Cozy Atmosphere: Relax in a comfortable and intimate setting.

  • Nature Immersion:  Surround yourself with lush greenery and enjoy the sounds of nature.



6. Panorama Beach Club & Resort: Tranquil Getaway with Panoramic Views


Hidden Gems El Nido

Panorama Beach Club & Resort offers a tranquil escape with stunning panoramic views of the sea and surrounding islands. Their spacious rooms and villas provide a comfortable and relaxing stay, while the resort's infinity pool and beachfront restaurant offer additional amenities for a perfect getaway.


Why We Love It:

  • Panoramic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and islands from your room or villa.

  • Infinity Pool: Take a refreshing dip while enjoying the stunning scenery.

  • Beachfront Access: Relax on the beach or partake in various water sports activities.



7. Kanipa Beach Glamping:Luxury Glamping on the Beachfront


Hidden Gems El Nido

Kanipa Beach Glamping offers a luxurious glamping experience with spacious and well-appointed tents right on the beachfront. Enjoy the comforts of a hotel room while being immersed in nature. Each tent features a private bathroom, a comfortable bed, and a private terrace with stunning sea views.


Why We Love It:

  • Luxurious Glamping:  Experience the comfort and convenience of a hotel room while enjoying the outdoors.

  • Beachfront Location: Step out of your tent and onto the pristine sands of Nacpan Beach.

  • Private Terrace: Relax and soak in the views from your own private terrace.



8. Hardin De Marbella: Charming Villas in a Tropical Garden


Hidden Gems El Nido

Hardin De Marbella is a collection of charming villas nestled in a beautiful tropical garden. These villas offer a peaceful and secluded retreat for couples or families. Each villa features a private terrace where you can relax and enjoy the sounds of nature.


Why We Love It:

  • Private Villas: Enjoy the privacy and comfort of your own villa.

  • Tropical Garden: Relax and unwind in a serene environment surrounded by lush greenery.

  • Peaceful Atmosphere: Escape the crowds and enjoy a tranquil getaway.




El Nido's hidden gem accommodations offer a unique and unforgettable way to experience the island's natural beauty and vibrant culture. By choosing to stay in one of these secluded havens, you'll not only escape the crowds but also support sustainable tourism practices and connect with the local community on a deeper level.


I have a playlist of videos that you can check on on El Nido, Palawan, click here to binge on the Playlist!


Hidden Gems El Nido

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