Nacpan Beach is located approximately 17 kilometers (10.5 miles) north of El Nido town in Palawan. The journey takes about 45 minutes and can be done by various transportation options. Getting there is part of the adventure!
Common Routes to Nacpan Beach
Manila → El Nido → Nacpan Beach
Fly to El Nido, then local transport (most common)
Manila → Puerto Princesa → El Nido → Nacpan Beach
Fly to Puerto Princesa, van to El Nido, then local transport
Step 1: Getting to El Nido
✈️ By Air (Fastest)
Option 1: Direct to El Nido Airport
Fly directly from Manila to El Nido's Lio Airport (ENI). AirSWIFT operates regular flights. This is the fastest option but more expensive.
Option 2: Fly to Puerto Princesa
More airlines serve Puerto Princesa (PPS) from Manila, Cebu, and other cities. From Puerto Princesa, take a van/bus to El Nido (5-6 hours). More budget-friendly but takes longer.
🚐 Puerto Princesa to El Nido
If you fly to Puerto Princesa, you'll need to take a van or bus to El Nido. The journey takes 5-6 hours along a scenic coastal route.
Shuttle Vans
Faster and more comfortable
Cost: ₱600-800
Duration: 5-5.5 hours
Public Bus
Budget option
Cost: ₱400-500
Duration: 6-7 hours
Step 2: El Nido to Nacpan Beach
Once you're in El Nido town, you have several options to reach Nacpan Beach, just 17km away.
Shuttle Van (Recommended)
Regular shuttle vans run between El Nido and Nacpan Beach throughout the day. This is the most convenient and affordable option for most travelers.
₱150-200 per person (one-way)
45 minutes
Multiple departures daily
💡 Tip: Book your return trip when you arrive to ensure a seat back to El Nido.
Tricycle
Hire a tricycle for a private ride. Good for small groups or if you want more flexibility with timing and stops along the way.
₱800-1,200 (whole tricycle)
2-3 passengers
45 minutes
Rent a Motorbike
For experienced riders, renting a scooter gives you complete freedom to explore at your own pace and make stops for photos along the scenic route.
₱400-600/day + fuel
₱50-100 at beach
License & deposit
⚠️ Safety First: The road can be rough and dusty. Wear a helmet, drive carefully, and avoid riding in rain or at night.
Private Van/Car
Hire a private van with driver for your group. Most comfortable option, especially for families or larger groups.
₱1,500-2,500 (round-trip)
6-8 passengers
Through hotel/tour agencies
About the Road
The road from El Nido to Nacpan Beach is mostly paved but can be bumpy and dusty in sections. During dry season it's generally in good condition, but can become challenging after heavy rains.
The route is scenic, passing through lush greenery and offering occasional glimpses of the coastline. Keep your camera ready for photo opportunities, especially at the viewpoint overlooking the Twin Beaches!
💡 Best time to travel: Morning (7-10 AM) to avoid midday heat and arrive early at the beach.
Quick Comparison
| Transport | Cost | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shuttle Van | ₱150-200 | 45 min | Budget travelers, convenience |
| Tricycle | ₱800-1,200 | 45 min | Small groups, flexibility |
| Motorbike Rental | ₱400-600/day | 45 min | Adventurers, photographers |
| Private Van | ₱1,500-2,500 | 45 min | Families, larger groups |
Travel Tips
✓ Do's
- • Bring cash - no ATMs at Nacpan
- • Start early to avoid crowds
- • Book return transport in advance
- • Bring water and snacks
- • Check weather before going
- • Wear sunscreen
✗ Don'ts
- • Don't rely on mobile internet (spotty)
- • Don't ride motorbike if inexperienced
- • Don't forget to arrange return transport
- • Don't litter - keep the beach clean
- • Don't expect many amenities on beach
- • Don't travel at night if possible
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