Nestled in the northernmost tip of mainland Palawan, El Nido is more than a postcard-perfect destination — it’s a lifeline for many, a haven for travelers, and a growing model for sustainable tourism in the Philippines.

With a population of just over 50,000, this coastal municipality may be small in size but it boasts a remarkable geographical diversity. Visitors can expect jagged limestone cliffs rising from turquoise waters, hidden lagoons, pristine white-sand beaches, and some of the best coral reefs in Southeast Asia.

More than just a place to unwind, El Nido is proving to be a sanctuary for mental well-being. According to travel psychology studies, immersion in natural environments helps reduce stress, boost creativity, and restore mental clarity. For many Filipinos and domestic travelers, a few days of kayaking through calm waters or hiking to scenic viewpoints offers a much-needed break from urban noise and daily routine.

Getting to El Nido has become increasingly convenient. From Manila, travelers can catch direct flights to El Nido Airport via AirSwift, which offers daily services. Alternatively, Puerto Princesa International Airport, 269 kilometers south, serves larger carriers and connects to El Nido via a scenic five-hour van or bus ride. Once there, local tricycles, motorbikes, and boat tours make it easy to explore.

El Nido’s rise as a premier tourism destination has brought significant economic benefits. One clear example is in the barangay of Sibaltan, where homestay operators, boatmen, and tour guides have formed cooperatives to manage community-led tours. Residents who once relied solely on seasonal farming or fishing now enjoy year-round income through tourism services, often passed down to younger family members.

“We never thought we could earn like this without leaving our hometown,” said Liza Domingo, a mother of three who runs a homestay in her seaside village. “Tourism helped us send our kids to school and even improve our house.”

In recent years, the local government and various stakeholders have worked to ensure that tourism growth does not come at the expense of El Nido’s fragile ecosystems. The municipality has implemented a carrying capacity for island-hopping tours and restricted single-use plastics in key areas. Divers and snorkelers are now briefed on coral-safe practices before tours begin. These measures were developed in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and various NGOs.

The town’s protected area status — elevated in 1998 — ensures that critical habitats, including mangroves, coral reefs, and bird nesting sites, remain undisturbed. Meanwhile, initiatives like marine biodiversity monitoring and waste management training are supported by local schools and civic groups.

For business-minded travelers, El Nido also presents opportunities. The ease of setting up tourism-related ventures — from small cafés to guided kayaking tours — has drawn entrepreneurs from nearby provinces and abroad. With a rising middle-class Filipino demographic seeking domestic travel options, sustainable businesses have room to thrive.

El Nido exemplifies how a small municipality can balance development and conservation, offering not only breathtaking views but also livelihoods and life-changing experiences. For those looking to reconnect with nature, support local communities, and enjoy a more mindful style of travel, El Nido might just be the right destination — and perhaps, a second home.

Have you considered exploring your own backyard lately? El Nido’s waters are waiting.

By Jaja Agpalo