In El Nido, Palawan
Big & Small Lagoon
El Nido's most photographed natural wonder.
The Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon are the two karst formations that put El Nido on every travel publication's "before you die" list. They're located on Miniloc Island, accessible only by boat as part of Tour A.
Big Lagoon is exactly what its name suggests — a massive emerald-green channel of water flanked by 200-meter limestone cliffs. Boats can enter it; you'll glide through impossibly clear water with the cliffs towering on either side. Many tours let you kayak deeper into the lagoon for the best photos.
Small Lagoon requires a swim or kayak through a narrow opening in the cliffs to enter. Once inside, you're in a hidden circular pool surrounded by jungle-covered walls. It's quieter than Big Lagoon, more enclosed, and feels genuinely secret.
Both spots get crowded in high season (December-April). Book a tour that starts at 8 AM rather than the standard 9 AM start to beat the crush. Bring a dry bag — you'll swim a lot.
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