Today we’re taking you along on one of the most popular experiences in the Philippines — Island Hopping Tour A. There are four main tours (A, B, C, and D), each offering a different set of beaches, lagoons, and snorkeling spots. We chose Tour A, known for its stunning lagoons and must-see viewpoints.

I’m not the strongest swimmer, so I’ll be capturing most of the moments from the boat, enjoying the views and the chaos all at once. Let’s jump in — literally for some, figuratively for me.

Waiting for the Tour to Start

Before boarding, everyone joining the same tour groups gathers in a waiting area. It’s surprisingly beautiful — clear views of the boats, the blue water, and the mountains beyond.

The tour runs from 9 AM to around 4–5 PM, so it’s a full-day adventure. Definitely a 9–to-5… except on a beach instead of behind a desk.

To prep for the day, we picked up an Ocean Pack waterproof bag to keep all our gear dry. With cameras, phones, and batteries, this was absolutely necessary.

Boarding the Boat: The Waves Mean Business

Once it was time to load onto the boat, things got interesting fast. The waves were strong — splash-in-your-face, hold-onto-your-camera, tippy-toe-to-stay-upright strong.

We had to:

• Fight through the waves

• Keep the camera above water

• Hop into the boat quickly

• Avoid dropping anything valuable

We also geared up with water shoes and life vests — essential for hopping in and out of boats all day.

Tour A, here we go.

Stop 1: Seven Commando Beach

Our first destination was Seven Commando Beach, a beautiful short strip of sand lined with palm trees. Clear water, blue skies, mountain views — everything you expect from a Filipino postcard.

There were a lot of people, lots of boats arriving in batches, and a buzzing beach vibe.

Coconut Time

We grabbed some fresh coconut water, and it was incredible.
This is what coconut water is supposed to taste like — cold, sweet, and refreshing.

Because many visitors were sunbathing, swimming, or… let’s say not fully clothed, we kept the filming minimal to avoid YouTube issues.

We stayed for about 35 minutes before heading to the next lagoon.

Stop 2: The Lagoon — Stunning Views

The next destination gave us one of the highlights of the entire tour.
The view from inside the lagoon was unreal — calm turquoise water surrounded by towering rock formations.

This was one of those “wow, this is real life” moments.

After exploring and taking in the scenery, it was time for lunch.

Stop 3: Lunch on the Beach

We landed on another beautiful beach where our boat crew prepared lunch.
Normally lunch is ready earlier, but because another boat arrived late, we waited about 45–50 minutes.

Public group tour problems — you’re on everyone else’s schedule.

But honestly, when you’re sitting on a stunning beach in the Philippines, delays don’t feel so bad.

Stop 4: Final Lagoons & Swimming Spots

By the time we reached the fourth destination, exhaustion hit hard.
Everyone else was jumping into the water, snorkeling, exploring…
And we?
We stayed on the boat.

Sometimes you’ve got to rest — especially after swimming, climbing, walking, filming, eating, and surviving rough waves all day.

We weren’t the only ones either; half the boat decided to sit this location out.

Still, the scenery was gorgeous. Even from the boat, the experience was worth it.

The Last Stop: One More Adventure

The final stop offered more dramatic limestone cliffs and blue water. Getting around required some careful stepping — at one point, someone nearly disappeared into a hole in the rocks (gracefully, of course).

By this point, the sun, saltwater, and adventure had definitely taken their toll.
But what an ending — raw beauty, loud laughs, soaked clothes, and unforgettable memories.

Final Thoughts on Tour A

Tour A in the Philippines is:

• Beautiful

• Slightly chaotic

• Full of surprises

• Very wet

• Entirely worth it

The mix of lagoons, beaches, and views made the entire day something we’ll never forget.

Even without being a swimmer, this tour is absolutely doable and enjoyable — especially with the right gear and a willingness to laugh through the rough waves.

If you’re visiting El Nido, Tour A should be on your list.