Lagoons
Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon: visitor limits and fees explained
By the El Nido Private Tours team
Updated:
4 min read
Short answer
Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon are both entered by kayak and have daily visitor limits. They are not visited on the same day: Tour A includes one or the other, depending on the operator and the day’s capacity. Each lagoon visit carries a per-person fee on top of the Eco-Tourism Development Fee, so plan two days if you want both.
Why the lagoons have limits
The lagoons are fragile, enclosed spaces, and at their busiest they were crowded with boats and swimmers. Published rules now limit daily visitors and keep boats to one of the two lagoons on a given day. It makes for a calmer visit, but it means the lagoons are planned ahead rather than on the day.
How it works on your trip
- Your operator arranges your lagoon visit when your trip is confirmed. Which lagoon you visit depends on the day’s capacity.
- You pay the Eco-Tourism Development Fee once and carry the receipt. It is valid for about 10 days.
- At the lagoon you switch to a kayak and paddle in. Motorboats stay outside.
| Big Lagoon | Small Lagoon | |
|---|---|---|
| Tour | Tour A, alternating with Small Lagoon | Tour A, alternating with Big Lagoon |
| Getting in | Kayak | Kayak through a narrow gap |
| Feel | Wide and dramatic | Intimate and enclosed |
| Lagoon fee | About ₱200 per person | About ₱200 per person |
Tips for a better lagoon visit
- Ask for an earlier visit. Light and water are often at their best in the morning.
- Wear water shoes. Some entrances are rocky.
- Keep it light. A dry bag for your phone is enough.
- Plan two days for both lagoons. They are not visited on the same day.
A private boat helps here: your crew builds the rest of the day around your slot, instead of a whole group’s schedule.
Plan a lagoon day
Plan my dayQuestions people ask
Your operator arranges it. Daily visitor limits apply, so lagoon visits are planned ahead, and your crew confirms the plan before your trip.
Visits to Big Lagoon are by kayak. Ask your crew about current rules on the day, as they can change.