Dos Palmas Island Resort is a secluded private-island paradise in the turquoise waters of Bacuit Bay, just off the coast of El Nido, Palawan. Accessible only by boat, this eco-friendly resort offers an intimate escape surrounded by pristine coral reefs, limestone karsts, and powdery white sand. It’s a top pick for travellers seeking a tranquil beach retreat with world-class snorkelling and diving right off the shore.
Highlights & What to See
- House Reef Snorkelling – The resort’s house reef is a protected marine sanctuary teeming with colourful fish, sea turtles, and vibrant corals. Snorkel gear is complimentary, and the water is calm and clear.
- Kayaking & Paddleboarding – Explore the surrounding limestone islets and hidden lagoons by kayak or stand-up paddleboard, available for free at the resort.
- Diving Excursions – The resort’s dive centre offers guided dives to nearby sites like the famous Miniloc Island and Shimizu Island, known for dramatic drop-offs and abundant marine life.
- Sunset at the Sandbar – A short stroll from the main beach leads to a sandbar that emerges at low tide, offering a spectacular vantage point for sunset photos.
- El Nido Town Tour – A boat ride away, El Nido town offers local markets, restaurants, and the chance to book island-hopping tours to the Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, and Secret Beach.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most visitors stay 2–3 nights to fully unwind and enjoy the resort’s activities. A typical itinerary: arrive midday, spend the first afternoon snorkelling and kayaking; the next day, take a full-day island-hopping tour to El Nido’s iconic lagoons and beaches; and on your final morning, relax on the sandbar or do a final dive before checkout. If you’re short on time, a single overnight stay still allows for a full day of snorkelling and a sunset paddle.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- El Nido Town – The gateway to Palawan’s limestone karst landscapes, with restaurants, bars, and tour operators.
- Miniloc Island – Home to the famous Small Lagoon and Big Lagoon, best explored on a boat tour.
- Shimizu Island – A prime snorkelling and diving spot with a stunning beach and coral gardens.
- Lagen Island – Another private island resort with a lush forest and a beautiful cove.
- Puerto Princesa – Palawan’s capital, reachable by van or flight, and the starting point for the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- El Nido — Heritage Branch staff / CC BY 4.0
- Puerto Princesa — shankar s. / CC BY 2.0
- Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park — Boštjan Burger / Public domain