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| Nacpan Beach, El Nido |
The Hidden Gem That Stunned the World
According to What makes this 4km stretch of golden sand so special?
- Zero Mega-Resorts: Only a handful of rustic beach bars
- Double the Beauty: Twin coves separated by a palm-fringed sandbar
- Wildlife Magic: Frequent sea turtle sightings in turquoise waters
”It’s the anti-Boracay — no crowds, no noise, just pure untouched beauty,” says travel judge Miguel Carvalho.
Why Nacpan Beach? (And Why Now?)
- #2 Worldwide (Time Out)
- #1 in Asia (Condé Nast Traveler)
- Judges’ Notes: ”The definition of barefoot luxury — perfect sand, zero commercialization.”
2. It’s Still a Secret (For Now)
- Visitor Stats: Under 200 daily tourists vs. Boracay’s 10,000+
- Best Time to Visit: April-June (avoid monsoon season)
3. Adventure Awaits
- Hidden Lagoon: 10-minute hike from the north end
- Cliff Jumping: Secret spots locals will show you
- Island Hopping: Nearby Duli Beach has world-class surfing
How to Get There (Before Everyone Else Does)
Step 1: Fly to El Nido
- From Manila: 1.5-hour flight to El Nido Airport (newly expanded in 2024)
- From Cebu: 4-hour ferry + 1-hour van
Step 2: The Last Journey to Paradise
- By Tricycle: 45 minutes from El Nido town (~$10)
- By Scooter: Rent for $8/day (more freedom!)
Step 3: Where to Stay
- Budget: Mad Monkey Hostel (beachfront beds from $12)
- Luxury: The Glamping Hub (safari tents with AC, $120/night)
What You Must Know Before Visiting
- Cash Only: No ATMs on the beach
- No Sunsets: Faces east (but sunrise swims are magical)
- 3. Limited Signal: Digital detox guaranteed
Local Secrets to Elevate Your Trip
- Eat Like a King: Try tamilok (woodworm ceviche) at Beach Shack #7
- Secret Swing: Ask locals where to find the Instagram-famous palm rope swing
- Full Moon Parties: Only on summer months — check with hostels
The Sad Truth: It Won’t Stay Secluded Forever
With the 2025 rankings announced:
- New airport routes are coming in late 2025
- Luxury resorts have started buying land
- Visitor numbers are expected to double by 2026
“Go now — this is the last year to see Nacpan as a true hidden paradise,” warns Time Out’s Asia editor.
Also see: Batanes Reveals the Philippines' Final Frontier for Nature and Culture Addicts
Your Nacpan Beach Packing List
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen (strict eco laws)
- Waterproof Dry Bag (for island hopping)
- Pesos in Small Bills (most places don’t accept cards)
- GoPro or Waterproof Phone Case (you’ll need it!)
Ready to book? Check flight deals to Palawan or read our El Nido Island Hopping Guide.
