Shimizu Island in El Nido tour packages

Shimizu Island is one of El Nido, Palawan’s magical pearls that offers visitors a serene haven in the midst of stunning scenery. Renowned for its crystal clear turquoise waters and powdery white sand beach, the island is perfect for those who desire to relax or engage in water sports. Snorkeling is especially well-liked here, as the vibrant coral reefs near the shore harbor a diverse community of marine species like brightly hued tropical fish and soft corals. The island’s dramatic limestone cliffs and calm lagoons create a picture-perfect setting that draws photographers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.

Why do you have to visit Shimizu in El Nido?

You have to visit Shimizu Island because it offers an excellent mix of nature scenery, tranquility, and adventure at one spot. Unlike more popular tourist spots, Shimizu Island remains a peaceful retreat where you can unwind on unspoiled white sandy beaches and swim in turquoise waters. Its vibrant coral reefs are a snorkeler’s paradise where you can have close encounters with pretty tropical fish and lovely underwater landscapes. The island’s towering limestone rocks and peaceful lagoons create breathtaking scenery perfect for photography and discovery. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, marine adventure, or simply a break in a stunning tropical setting, Shimizu Island provides an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of El Nido’s natural wonders.

Best Time to Visit Shimizu Island

The best time to visit Shimizu Island is during the dry season, which runs from December to May. April to June has clear weather with mostly sunny days and smooth seas, perfect for island-hopping, snorkeling, and swimming. With a clear horizon and peaceful waters, you get excellent underwater visibility and enjoy the rich marine life and coral reefs that encircle the island. Avoiding the rainy season ensures a more comfortable and safer trip with little chance for a surprise change in weather.

How to Reach Shimizu Island

To reach Shimizu Island, you need to first arrive at El Nido town in Palawan. The most convenient option is to fly directly from Manila to El Nido’s Lio Airport, which takes about an hour and a half. Alternatively, you can fly into Puerto Princesa and then transfer by land for 5 to 6 hours to arrive at El Nido. Shimizu Island from the town of El Nino can only be accessed by boat as part of the famous Island Hopping Tour A. The boat tours originate from the main terminal in El Nido and take about 20 to 30 minutes to the island. Reserving a tour package including Shimizu Island is the easiest and most common way to visit.

Permits and Fees required for Shimizu Island Day Tour

Visitors to Shimizu Island have to pay the El Nino Environmental Fee, which funds conservation in the local area. It is usually about 200 Philippine pesos and is for a number of days in the area. Also included in the island hopping tour is usually the rental of the boat, snorkeling gear, and guide in the price, which is usually between 1000 to 1500 pesos per head, depending on the operator and season. There are no entrance fees for Shimizu Island beyond these usual fees to see El Nido.

Suggested Packages

3 Days 2 Nights Tour Package in the Philippines

Admission Fee
Free
Guide
Included
Best Season
Nov to Feb & March to May
Departure City
Palawan
Insurance Coverage
None
Meals
Full Meal

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

The El Nido Island Hopping Tour A, which includes Shimizu Island, is typically a one-day itinerary. Most visitors do this tour as a day trip from El Nido town, spending around 6 to 8 hours exploring several islands and lagoons before returning in the late afternoon.

However, many travelers spend multiple days in El Nido to experience different island hopping tours (Tour A, B, C, D), relax, and explore more of Palawan’s natural beauty. So while the Shimizu Island visit itself is part of a single-day tour, your overall stay in El Nido can be as long as you want depending on how many tours or activities you plan to do.

Highlights of the Shimizu Island

Glassy turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling
Vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and sea life
Soft white sandy shores for relaxation and sunbathing
mpressive limestone cliffs and rock formations that provide spectacular photo opportunities
Calm and less crowded atmosphere, which offers a peaceful island haven
Included in El Nido's popular Tour A tour package, so it is conveniently accessible
Perfect spot to hold beach picnics and bird watching
Opportunities to explore small caves and lagoons along the shore

Day 01 :

Itinerary

8:30 AM – Departure from El Nido Town Pier

Arrive at El Nido town's main pier and meet your boat and guide. On the way back, you'll typically need to register and pay the environmental fees if not already done so. Get settled on the boat, and the crew will brief you on the day's itinerary and safety protocols.

9:00 AM – First Stop: Small Lagoon

Your destination is the famous Small Lagoon with its stunning limestone cliffs and serene crystal waters. Swim, kayak, or just revel in the stunning scenery. This is an ideal spot for photo opportunities and light hiking.

10:00 AM – Shimizu Island

After that, the boat continues to Shimizu Island, where you will spend about an hour or more, based on your group. There, you snorkel from the beach to see vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish. The beach's white sand and peaceful surroundings also make it a perfect place to relax. Feel free to bring your snorkeling equipment or underwater camera to take pictures of the underwater landscape.

11:30 AM – Secret Lagoon

Following is the island of Shimizu, and then there is the boat ride to the Secret Lagoon. The site is a hidden treasure nestled amidst massive limestone cliffs. You will enter a narrow opening by boat and wade or swim into the lagoon. It is an eerie experience because of the setting.

12:30 PM – Lunch on a nearby island or beach

Most tours provide a picnic lunch, usually eaten at a nearby beach or island. You can feast on freshly grilled seafood, fruits, and other Filipino food while basking in the tropical landscape.

1:30 PM – Big Lagoon

After lunch, proceed to the Big Lagoon and observe one of El Nido's landmarks. You may kayak or swim under towering cliffs and crystal waters. The lagoon is broader and more roomy compared to the Small Lagoon, plenty of opportunities for photo shots.

2:30 PM – Seven Commandos Beach

Your final destination is Seven Commandos Beach, a stunning white sand beach with coconut trees to provide some shade. It's a wonderful place to relax, swim, or purchase snacks from street vendors. Most tourists prefer spending some time here before returning.

4:00 PM – Return to El Nido Town

The boat departs back to El Nido town. You’ll arrive at the pier by late afternoon, usually around 4 to 4:30 PM, just in time to relax or explore the town’s restaurants and shops.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shimizu Island

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What is the best way to get to Shimizu Island from El Nido?

The easiest and most common way to reach Shimizu Island is by joining the well-known El Nido Island Hopping Tour A. The tour departs from El Nido town on a boat and normally covers Shimizu Island and other such beautiful places as the Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon. The boat ride from El Nido to Shimizu Island takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes.

Is Shimizu Island included in the standard El Nido Tour A tour package?

Yes, Shimizu Island is included in the standard Tour A itinerary, and it is quite easy to visit for travelers who want to explore the island as part of an escorted boat tour.

What can visitors do on Shimizu Island?

You may snorkel among colored coral reefs inhabited by tropical fish, dive in the blue crystal sea, sunbathe on the white sandy beach, and take pictures of the island’s striking limestone cliffs and natural scenery. Several tours also include a beach picnic lunch.

Are there any facilities, such as restrooms or restaurants at Shimizu Island?

No, Shimizu Island is undeveloped and has no restrooms, restaurants, or shops. Visitors must supply their own water, snacks, and other provisions, and be ready as there are no permanent structures.

Is snorkeling good for beginners at Shimizu Island?

Yes! The waters off Shimizu Island are shallow and calm near shore, which makes Shimizu Island an ideal location for new snorkelers. The coral reefs are easily accessible without having to swim too far.

What kind of sea animals can I expect to see snorkeling there?

You’ll see a variety of brightly colored tropical fish such as clownfish, parrotfish, and angelfish. Lush coral reefs also attract other sea creatures, and every now and then you might even spot sea turtles or other larger animals hiding around.

Can I spend the night on Shimizu Island?

No, there are no camps or lodges on the island. People typically only stay a day or so there on day tours before returning to El Nido town.

What's the best time of year to visit Shimizu Island?

The ideal time to go is between December and May, when the weather is clear and the seas are calm. The dry season presents the most favorable conditions for swimming and snorkeling. The wet season (June to November) is not as good because of rough seas and unstable weather.

Are there any admission fees to see Shimizu Island?

There is no separate entrance fee for Shimizu Island by itself. But payment of the El Nido Environmental Fee (around 200 PHP) is required, which covers all island hopping destinations in the area. Island hopping tour fee per se usually already comes with boat fees, snorkeling gears, and an orientation guide.

Is Shimizu Island child-friendly and suitable for children?

Yes, Shimizu Island is great for families. The shallow waters and gentle shallow area are safe and fun for children. Just be sure to keep little c

Shimizu Island in El Nido tour packages

Why do you have to visit Shimizu in El Nido?

Best Time to Visit Shimizu Island

How to Reach Shimizu Island

Permits and Fees required for Shimizu Island Day Tour

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs