Pinasil Island
A breathtaking cave on Pinasil Island, El Nido, featuring towering stalactites that resemble a grand cathedral.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Pinasil Island
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking cave on Pinasil Island, El Nido, featuring towering stalactites that resemble a grand cathedral.
"Its just a site view, but its so incredible that you can’t miss it."
Book El Nido Tour B
This is the primary way to visit Pinasil Island's Cathedral Cave. :admission_tickets:
Kayak or Swim Access
Ask your tour operator about kayaking or swimming into the cave for a closer look. :kayak:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Cathedral Interior
Inside the cave
Towering stalactites resembling cathedral pillars create a breathtaking, awe-inspiring natural wonder.
Scenic Boat Approach
Approaching Pinasil Island
The journey to the cave offers stunning views of Pinasil Island and its dramatic coastal formations.
Unique Cave Entrance
Cave mouth
Accessing the cave via speedboat or kayak adds an element of adventure to the exploration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Cathedral Cave
Best Views and Photo Ops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book El Nido Tour B
This is the primary way to visit Pinasil Island's Cathedral Cave. :admission_tickets:
Kayak or Swim Access
Ask your tour operator about kayaking or swimming into the cave for a closer look. :kayak:
Photo Opportunities
The exterior views are stunning, even if you can't enter. Capture the scale from the boat. :camerawithflash:
Check Entry Conditions
Entry might be restricted due to wildlife like sea snakes. Be prepared for a scenic view. :snake:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book El Nido Tour B
This is the primary way to visit Pinasil Island's Cathedral Cave. :admission_tickets:
Kayak or Swim Access
Ask your tour operator about kayaking or swimming into the cave for a closer look. :kayak:
Photo Opportunities
The exterior views are stunning, even if you can't enter. Capture the scale from the boat. :camerawithflash:
Check Entry Conditions
Entry might be restricted due to wildlife like sea snakes. Be prepared for a scenic view. :snake:
Consider Freediving
Some explore the underwater aspects or freedive near the cave. :diver:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Pinasil Island's Cathedral Cave is a visually striking natural wonder, often praised for its impressive rock formations and cathedral-like interior. While some visitors find it a highlight of El Nido's Tour B, others note that direct entry can be restricted, making it more of a scenic photo opportunity from the boat. The experience can vary depending on tour operators and sea conditions.
"Visited this skerry as part of Tour B of the El Nido Island Hopping tours. It's a nice stop, but not a must do as it's hard to get the boat into position to take the ideal picture. IMHO, the results are good, but not amazing."
Chung H
"As part of the Tour B in El Nido, a fascinating visit to Cathedral Cave awaits travelers. This awe-inspiring cave can be accessed either by kayak or by swimming from the boat. Its name, Cathedral Cave, perfectly captures the essence of its remarkable features.
Upon entering, you'll be greeted by a cavernous space with a lofty ceiling, evoking a sense of grandeur. The cave's most striking characteristic is the presence of enormous stalactites that resemble majestic pillars, some reaching heights of up to 40 meters. These natural formations add to the cave's mystique and create a breathtaking sight.
Unfortunately, during your visit, circumstances prevented you from venturing inside. Nonetheless, your boat made a stop nearby, allowing you to appreciate the exterior of the cave and take in its remarkable beauty from a distance.
Even if you couldn't explore its interior, the experience of witnessing Cathedral Cave's magnificence is sure to leave an indelible impression on your El Nido adventure."
David Rumptz
"What a nice experience 🫶
This Cave was included on Tour B El Nido, we paid around 1300PHP per person.
We hope someday we can visit inside the Cave either with small boat or swimming 🙏"
Ria Yudiantari
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pinasil Island and its famous Cathedral Cave are typically visited as part of El Nido Tour B. This is the most common and convenient way for tourists to access the site. Tours usually depart from El Nido town. Some tours may offer access via speedboat, kayak, or swimming, depending on the sea conditions and the specific tour operator's itinerary.
The primary mode of transport is by organized island hopping tours from El Nido. These tours utilize tourist boats (often bangkas) that are equipped to navigate the waters around the islands. For direct access into the cave, a speedboat might be necessary, which some tours can arrange.
There are no direct public transport options to Pinasil Island. Access is exclusively through private boat rentals or organized island hopping tours like Tour B. These tours are the most practical and widely used method for visitors.
The travel time to Pinasil Island from El Nido town can vary depending on the tour itinerary and sea conditions, but it typically takes around 30-60 minutes by boat as part of an island hopping tour.
Yes, you can rent a private boat for a more personalized experience. This allows you to customize your itinerary and spend more time at Pinasil Island and other nearby attractions. However, it is generally more expensive than joining a group tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Typically, the entrance fee for Pinasil Island and its Cathedral Cave is included in the price of El Nido Tour B. It's advisable to confirm this with your tour operator when booking to avoid any surprises.
Pinasil Island is accessible during daylight hours as part of organized tours. Tours usually operate from morning until late afternoon. There are no specific opening or closing times for the island itself, as it's a natural attraction.
Yes, an environmental fee is usually collected as part of the island hopping tour package in El Nido. This fee contributes to the conservation of the marine and natural resources in the area.
Entry into the Cathedral Cave can be restricted due to safety reasons, such as the presence of sea snakes, or due to sea conditions. Some tours may allow access by swimming or kayak, while others might only offer a view from the boat.
The cost of El Nido Tour B can vary, but it generally ranges from 1300 PHP to 1800 PHP per person, depending on the tour operator and inclusions. This price usually covers the boat, guide, lunch, and entrance fees.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunities are from the boat approaching the cave entrance, capturing the dramatic rock formations and the cave's mouth. If you can enter, the interior with its stalactites offers a unique perspective. The surrounding waters and rock formations also make for great shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the cave and surrounding landscapes. If you plan on swimming or kayaking inside, a waterproof camera or a protective case for your phone is highly recommended. Drone photography might be restricted, so check local regulations.
Yes, but it can be challenging due to low light conditions inside the cave. Using a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod can help. Many visitors find the exterior shots from the boat to be equally impressive.
Generally, photography is allowed, but be mindful of other visitors and the environment. Drone usage might be restricted in certain areas or by specific tour operators, so it's best to inquire beforehand.
The morning hours often provide softer light and fewer crowds, leading to better photo opportunities. However, the late afternoon can offer a beautiful golden hour glow on the rock formations.
🎫 🐠 Marine Life & Activities
While Pinasil Island is known for its cave, the surrounding waters are part of the vibrant marine ecosystem of El Nido. You might encounter various tropical fish, and the area is popular for snorkeling and freediving. Be aware that sea snakes have been reported inside the cave itself.
Snorkeling is often possible in the waters around Pinasil Island during island hopping tours. Some visitors also engage in freediving in the area, exploring the underwater beauty. Diving tours might also include stops near Pinasil Island.
While the Cathedral Cave is the main draw, you can also enjoy swimming in the clear waters, relaxing on the boat, and taking in the scenic beauty of the island and its rock formations. Some tours might include stops for swimming or snorkeling nearby.
Yes, the waters around Pinasil Island are generally clear and suitable for swimming. Many island hopping tours include designated swimming stops, and if conditions permit, you might be able to swim near the cave entrance.
The cave is named 'Cathedral Cave' due to its impressive interior with towering stalactites that resemble the pillars and grandeur of a cathedral. This natural architecture creates a sense of awe and wonder for visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a tour with a private boat if you have a larger family or younger children, as this allows for more flexibility and control over the pace. Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and water, as island hopping can be a full-day activity. The surrounding islands on Tour B often have calmer waters and beaches suitable for children to play on.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
If you have the opportunity to enter the cave, utilize low-light settings on your camera and consider a tripod for sharper images. Waterproof gear is a must if you plan to get close or swim. Don't forget to capture the surrounding turquoise waters and the unique karst landscapes of El Nido, which are equally photogenic.
🌊 Adventure Seekers
For those interested in marine exploration, inquire about freediving or snorkeling opportunities in the waters around Pinasil Island. The unique geological formations and the possibility of encountering marine life make it an exciting destination for those looking for an active and engaging experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Cathedral Cave: Access and Experience
Many visitors find the experience of approaching the cave by boat to be just as breathtaking as entering it. The dramatic rock formations and the sheer scale of the cave entrance are impressive from any vantage point. If direct entry is not possible, the opportunity to appreciate its grandeur from the water is still a memorable part of the tour.
For those interested in a closer look, inquiring with tour operators about the possibility of kayaking or swimming into the cave is recommended. It's also worth noting that some freedivers explore the underwater aspects near the cave, adding another dimension to the experience.
El Nido Tour B: Your Gateway to Pinasil Island
When booking Tour B, it's advisable to confirm the exact itinerary and what is included. Some operators might offer slightly different routes or activities. The tour provides a comprehensive way to experience the diverse natural beauty of El Nido, with the Cathedral Cave being a significant highlight due to its unique geological features.
Travelers often recommend booking tours through reputable operators in El Nido town or through your accommodation. This ensures a well-organized and enjoyable experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the wonders of Pinasil Island and the surrounding archipelago.
Photography Tips for Pinasil Island
Many of the most striking photos are taken from the boat as you approach the cave. This perspective highlights the dramatic cliffs and the cave's imposing entrance. If your tour allows for swimming or kayaking into the cave, a waterproof camera or a protective case for your phone is essential to capture those unique shots.
+1While drone photography can offer incredible aerial views, be aware that drone usage may be restricted in certain areas or by specific tour operators. Always check local regulations and tour guidelines before flying. The surrounding waters and islands also offer numerous picturesque opportunities, so keep your camera ready throughout the tour.
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