The beauty of the Philippines is endless but there is one place that is famous for its incredible limestone mountains and turquoise water – El Nido. This is one of the most popular and crowded areas in the Philippines.
Tourists from all over the world come here to see with their own eyes how paradise looks like. El Nido has some of the best beaches in the world and the 7 Commando Beach is one of them.
This stretch of sand, guarded by tall palm trees looks like a piece of heaven. With crystal clear water, spending a few days here is a dream if you choose to stay at the Vellago Resort but more about this at the end of the article.
In this article, I’ll share with you everything you need to know about the amazing 7 Commando Beach in El Nido.
1. The 7 Commando Beach Legend
There are actually two legends about how this beach got its name. The first one says that the beach got its name during WWII. It is said that during the war, 7 soldiers got stranded on this beach. The local people don’t seem to agree with this legend so they have their own version.
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There once was a fishing boat which got stranded in El Nido. The people on the boat found an empty island and decided to stay there until they repaired the boat. After the boat was repaired, the fishermen returned to their home. Several years later, when the island was re-discovered, the locals found a carving saying “Seven Commando” which is believed to be the name of the fishing boat.
No matter which legend you choose to believe, the Seven Commando Beach in El Nido should be on your itinerary. The unspoiled beauty of this beach is simply breathtaking.
2. About the Seven Commando Beach
The 7 Commando Beach is part of TOUR A, together with the incredible Shimizu Island. There are 4 different island hopping tours available in El Nido but the most popular one is Tour A (it covers the best attractions and the most beautiful beaches). To check out my Tour A review, click here.
Because the tours are heavily regulated and they start at the same hour, the 7 Commando Beach is quite busy. Don’t expect to have the beach for yourself!
Once the boat will arrive at this beach, grab your snorkeling gear and start exploring the marine life. One thing you should know in advance is that you are allowed to snorkel only in the designated area. For your own safety, follow the rules.
If snorkeling is not your thing, you can just chill on the beach or order something to drink from one of the beach bars. There are many small bars offering refreshments. The only thing you have to keep in mind is that the prices are a bit higher than in El Nido town.
The water at 7 Commandos Beach is simply incredible and perfect for swimming. The water is crystal clear and it has the most beautiful turquoise shade. As always, the beaches in the Philippines never disappoint.
We really loved this beach although it was a bit crowded. We had about 45 minutes on the Seven Commando Beach before departing to our next island hopping destination, the Small Lagoon.
Things to know before visiting:
- buy a waterproof bag for your electronics (if you plan to take them with you). Accidents do happen – Dan, my boyfriend fell into the water with his camera on one of the island hopping tours.
- wear UV protecting clothing. The sun is very harsh.
- don’t leave garbage behind. Keep the beaches clean for other visitors.
- the island hopping tour A includes food and water so you won’t have to worry about that.
- I recommend renting water shoes (you can find them at the departure point for island hopping tours). Keep your feet safe from sea-urchins and stones.
3. Other awesome places to visit in El Nido
You definitely have to plan more than one day to explore El Nido. There are so many incredible places to visit that one day is simply not enough.
While you’re in the area, I also recommend visiting the Twin Beach in the northern part of El Nido. This unusual beach is formed at the meeting point of Calitang Beach and Nacpan Beach. Truly a unique sight.
Another beach you have to visit is Las Cabanas Beach. This is one of the most popular beaches in El Nido. It offers some incredible views over nearby islands and it is one of the best places in El Nido to watch the sunset.
If you are looking for a more laid-back beach, visit the Corong Corong Beach.
4. 7 Commando beach location
The beach is located on Palawan Island and is only accessible by boat. If you are choosing the El Nido Tour A, this beach is going to be included in the itinerary. Another way to get to this beach is to spend a few nights at the Vellago Resort (boat transfer included) but more about this below.
5. Where to stay in El Nido
If you are looking for a resort situated right on the 7 Commandos Beach, you have to choose the amazing Vellago Resort. Luxurious, modern, cozy are just some of the words that could be used to describe this incredible resort.
If you want to stay closer to El Nido town, I have good news for you. I’ve been searching for the best accommodation for every budget. Here are my recommendations:
- Budget – Carandang Inn – close to the city center, clean rooms, friendly owners
- Mid Budget – La Colonial – good location, beautiful pool, clean & spacious rooms, friendly staff
- Luxury – Frangipani – modern & clean rooms, beautiful design & view, breakfast included, good location
The 7 Commando Beach is definitely an incredible place to visit while in El Nido and you should add it to your itinerary. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask me in the comments section below.
May the travel bug bite you!
Aurelia Teslaru is a professional travel blogger and the writer behind Daily Travel Pill. With a 4-year experience as a travel writer and photographer, Aurelia only shares travel guides about destinations that she visited.
She has been to more than 40 countries during the past 10 years and aims to explore 50 countries before turning 30 years old. Aurelia is a digital nomad who transformed her passion for travel into a lifestyle. Read more about her here.
To follow her adventures, check out her Instagram and Facebook pages!
I will go on tour A tomorrow. Thanks for all this useful information about the 7 Commando Beach. Can’t wait to visit it!
I am sure you will love it! This beach is one of my favorite ones in El Nido. Don’t forget to also check out the Twin Beach. Enjoy!