El Nido, a tropical haven in the Philippines’ province of Palawan, is renowned for its magnificent beaches, clean waters, and jaw-dropping limestone cliffs. Yet, visitors to this lovely location are drawn there for many reasons than just the beauty, including the cuisine. With a wide selection of dishes and regional cuisine that are sure to tempt your taste buds, El Nido is a food lover’s paradise. This foodie’s guide to El Nido will discuss some of the local cuisine and must-try meals that you shouldn’t miss while there. 

Fresh Seafood

Since El Nido is a coastal town, it should come as no surprise that local cuisine frequently features fresh seafood. El Nido offers a wide selection of seafood meals, including grilled fish, seafood stews, and seafood pasta dishes. Grilled squid, shrimp in garlic butter, and fish sinigang, a sour soup made with fish and vegetables, are some of the most well-liked seafood dishes. A sort of woodworm called “tamilok,” which is gathered from mangrove trees and eaten uncooked with vinegar and onions, is another local delicacy that you can taste. 

Adobo

A traditional Filipino cuisine called adobo adobo is created with meat, typically chicken or pork, that has been marinated in a sauce comprised of soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic before being stewed in the same sauce. Adobo is a staple in the Philippines and is available at practically all of El Nido’s eateries. Rice and veggies go nicely with this rich and savory entrée. 

Lechon

In the Philippines, lechon, or roasted pig, is a common meal that is frequently offered at festive occasions. The pig is roasted over a fire for a number of hours, producing crispy skin and juicy, tender meat. Lechon is a dish that is offered in restaurants and by street vendors in El Nido. If you enjoy beef, this dish is one you should try. 

Halo-Halo

Filipinos love the sweet treat known as halo-halo, which is composed with shaved ice, sweet beans, fruits, and a variety of other toppings like ube (purple yam) and leche flan (custard). It’s a cool, sweet treat that is ideal for El Nido’s hot, muggy climate. 

Philippine Cashew Nuts 

Cashew nuts, which are cultivated on the island and are regarded as some of the best in the world, are a specialty of Palawan. At El Nido, cashew nuts are available in a variety of preparations, from roasted and salted to used as a garnish on ice cream and other delicacies. As a dipping sauce for grilled meats and vegetables, cashew nuts can also be tried. This sauce is produced by pulverizing the nuts into a paste. 

Kinilaw

The raw fish or seafood used in kinilaw is marinated in vinegar, lemon juice, and seasonings. It is a form of Filipino ceviche. It’s a tasty and energizing dish that seafood fans will adore. You may discover kinilaw in El Nido made from a range of fish, including tuna, shrimp, and squid. 

Pinakbet

A variety of vegetables, including eggplant, bitter melon, and okra, are cooked in a stew with tomatoes, onions, and shrimp paste to make pinakbet, a vegetable meal. It’s a delicious and nutritious recipe that’s ideal for vegans and vegetarians. 

In essence, El Nido is a culinary haven with a wide selection of dishes and regional cuisine that are sure to please any palate.

JOIN US IN EL NIDO

Explorar Treehouses El Nido will feature 69 tree-house villas with private plunge pools surrounded by 360-degree untouched, lush mountain terrain overlooking shimmering sea views. The resort will also feature a permaculture farm and garden, a bar and guest area in ‘The Exchange’, a social space for guests to connect which is unique to the Explorar brand along with Spa and wellness utilising local and natural products.

Opening 2025.

In the Philippines, the small hamlet of El Nido is well-known for its breathtaking natural beauty, clean waters, and variety of marine life. El Nido’s reputation as one of the world’s top diving locations comes as no surprise. Choosing which diving locations to visit during your vacation can be challenging with over 30 to choose from. We’ve assembled the most comprehensive guide to the top diving sites in El Nido as a result.  

Tunnel of Dilumacad  

Helicopter Island, also known as Dilumacad Tunnel, is a well-liked dive location that is only a short boat trip from El Nido town. Advanced divers seeking for a challenge will love this dive site. You must swim through the tunnel, which is around 12 meters deep, to get to the other side. You may witness a variety of marine life inside the tunnel, including groupers, batfish, and jackfish schools. Additionally, the tunnel has several unusual characteristics, like tiny air bubbles and light beams that pass through from the opposite side.  

South Miniloc 

Another well-liked diving location is South Miniloc, which is situated in the southern region of Miniloc Island. The location is noted for its pristine waters and an abundance of marine life, making it excellent for both beginning and expert divers. You can witness several fish species, including as fusiliers, butterflyfish, and angelfish, at the site, which has an average depth of 12 to 18 meters. Moreover, you’ll see sea turtles, enormous clams, and vibrant corals.  

Entalula island 

Near El Nido town, Entalula Island is a well-liked location for diving and snorkeling. The location’s crystal-clear waters and colorful coral gardens are well-known. The dive location is ideal for beginning divers because to its average depth of 8–10 meters. There are several different species you can see, including clownfish, parrotfish, and damselfish. Nudibranchs and sea snakes are among the unusual aquatic animals you’ll see.  

Coral Garden of Dilumacad  

Another excellent dive site close to Helicopter Island is the Dilumacad Coral Garden. The location is renowned for its colorful coral gardens, which are home to a diverse range of marine species. The site is appropriate for both beginner and expert divers because to its typical depth of 10–12 meters. You’ll witness a variety of fish, including snapper, barracuda, and angelfish. A variety of coral species, such as staghorn coral, brain coral, and fire coral, are also present.  

North Rock 

For experienced divers, North Rock, which is close to Tres Marias Island, is a popular dive site. Strong currents and enormous pelagic fish, including barracudas and jacks, are two of the site’s most notable features. To explore this location, which has an average depth of 20–30 meters, you must be skilled at drift diving. A variety of reef fish species, including triggerfish, snappers, and surgeonfish, are also visible.  

As a result of its beautiful waters, vivid coral reefs, and a wealth of marine life, El Nido is a divers’ paradise. The diving sites at El Nido provide something for every level of diver, from beginners to experts. Pack your baggage and get ready to discover El Nido’s aquatic environment. 

JOIN US IN EL NIDO

Explorar Treehouses El Nido will feature 69 tree-house villas with private plunge pools surrounded by 360-degree untouched, lush mountain terrain overlooking shimmering sea views. The resort will also feature a permaculture farm and garden, a bar and guest area in ‘The Exchange’, a social space for guests to connect which is unique to the Explorar brand along with Spa and wellness utilising local and natural products.

Opening 2025.

Explorar Hotels & Resorts is pleased to announce the appointment of Raphael Kinimo as their new Brand Culinary Director. Raphael’s culinary expertise and experience will play a pivotal role in enhancing the brand’s culinary offerings as it expands its destinations worldwide.

Born and raised in France, Raphael’s passion for culinary arts started at a young age. He pursued his passion by attending culinary school, where he developed a deep understanding of classic techniques. Raphael went on to work with some of the world’s most esteemed French three-star Michelin chefs, who imparted their knowledge and techniques, ultimately earning him the title of Master Chef of France.

Raphael’s culinary journey took him to Dubai and Asia, where he served as Executive Chef at some of the most prestigious hotels and restaurants in the region. His diverse culinary experiences and international exposure have allowed him to develop a unique style that blends classic French techniques with global flavours and techniques.

In his new role, Raphael will develop signature and refined culinary offerings across all Explorar properties. He will also lead the training and development of the brand’s culinary team to ensure consistency and excellence across all its properties.

Raphael’s appointment comes at an exciting time for Explorar Hotels & Resorts as the brand continues to expand its global footprint. The addition of Raphael’s culinary expertise and experience will undoubtedly enhance the brand’s reputation as a leader in luxury hospitality.

Commenting on the appointment, Adam Boulton, COO of Explorar Hotels & Resorts, said, “We are thrilled to have Raphael Kinimo join our team. His culinary journey and experience bring a unique perspective to our brand, and we are confident that his expertise will help us elevate our culinary offerings across all our properties worldwide. We look forward to the innovative and creative ideas Raphael will bring to our team as we continue to grow.”

Raphael is equally excited about joining the Explorar Hotels & Resorts team, stating, “I am honoured to be joining the team at Explorar Hotels & Resorts. I look forward to working with the talented culinary teams across the brand’s properties whilst developing unique and exciting culinary experiences for our guests. My goal is to create a culinary journey that reflects the brand’s values and offers an unforgettable dining experience for our guests.”

As Explorar Hotels & Resorts continues to expand, Raphael’s appointment is a clear indication of the brand’s commitment to providing its guests with unparalleled culinary experiences. With Raphael’s expertise and the brand’s reputation for excellence, the future looks bright for Explorar Hotels & Resorts.

Explorar Hotels & Resorts is an innovative and genuine hospitality brand dedicated to a new way of travelling; blending leisure, remote working, relaxation and discovery. The brand provides a modern cultural getaway for friends, couples and digital nomads seeking to
Explore, Exchange and Exhale with properties located in some of the world’s most beautiful destinations in adults-only (16+) peace and quite. From pristine beaches in Thailand to breathtaking landscapes in the Philippines, Explorar Hotels & Resorts provide a unique and unforgettable experience for its guests.

Explorar Treehouses El Nido, located in Palawan, Philippines, has been awarded the 2023 International Sustainable Award for its remarkable environmental contribution. The eco-forward-thinking developmentsituated in the heart of El Nido, has been recognised for its commitment to sustainable practices and initiatives, which include minimising waste, conserving energy, and supporting the local community.

The treehouses themselves are a testament to the resort’s dedication to sustainability. Designed by the award-winning Underwood Phuket team and built using locally sourced materials, are designed to be in harmony with the natural environment. The unique architecture and innovative use of space will not only offer guests a comfortable stay, but they will also promote ecological awareness and encourage conservation efforts.

Explorar Treehouses El Nido commitment to sustainable practices extends beyond the resort, with the resort’s management team taking significant steps to minimise the resort’s carbon footprint. This includes using solar energy to power the resort with an Eco-town that harnesses photovoltaic panels, producing 5 MW of energy while offsetting 10,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide each year.

In addition, Explorar Treehouses El Nido supports local communities and contributes to preserving the region’s natural resources. The resort has partnered with various organisations to initiate environmental campaigns, such as tree planting and beach cleanups, to raise awareness and promote sustainable tourism.

The 2023 International Sustainable Award recognises Explorar Treehouses El Nido for its dedication to preserving the environment, promoting sustainable tourism, and supporting local communities. The award highlights the importance of sustainability and the role that businesses can play in protecting the environment.

Experience luxury in nature at Explorar Treehouses El Nido, featuring 69 tree-house villas with private plunge pools, permaculture farm and garden, a bar, spa and wellness, and The Exchange Co-working spaces for the travelling digital nomad.

Opening in 2025.