Secret Lagoon Miniloc
Discover a hidden paradise by crawling through a narrow rock opening to a secluded lagoon with emerald waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Easier access, fewer crowds
Secret Lagoon Miniloc
Best Time
Easier access, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a hidden paradise by crawling through a narrow rock opening to a secluded lagoon with emerald waters.
"The most beautiful place I've ever seen in my life. Nothing more to say really."
🌊 Swim & Crawl Ready!
Be prepared to swim and crawl through a small opening to enter. Waterproof your phone!
👟 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for navigating slippery rocks and coral inside and around the lagoon.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Secret Lagoon Entrance
Miniloc Island
Crawl through a narrow rock opening to discover a hidden world of emerald waters and towering cliffs.
+1
Emerald Waters
Inside the lagoon
Be mesmerized by the stunning, secluded emerald waters surrounded by dramatic limestone formations.
Towering Limestone Cliffs
Surrounding the lagoon
Marvel at the majestic limestone walls that rise like natural cathedrals, creating a dramatic backdrop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Entry
Prepare for an Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌊 Swim & Crawl Ready!
Be prepared to swim and crawl through a small opening to enter. Waterproof your phone!
👟 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for navigating slippery rocks and coral inside and around the lagoon.
☀️ Go Early for Solitude
Visiting in the morning means fewer people and a more serene experience.
💧 Protect Your Valuables
Use a waterproof bag or case for your phone and essentials.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌊 Swim & Crawl Ready!
Be prepared to swim and crawl through a small opening to enter. Waterproof your phone!
👟 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for navigating slippery rocks and coral inside and around the lagoon.
☀️ Go Early for Solitude
Visiting in the morning means fewer people and a more serene experience.
💧 Protect Your Valuables
Use a waterproof bag or case for your phone and essentials.
🤿 Life Vest Option
Good swimmers may be allowed without a life vest; others will be assisted.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Secret Lagoon a magical, albeit challenging, destination. The unique crawl-through entrance and stunning emerald waters surrounded by limestone cliffs are highlights, but the entry can be difficult, especially at high tide, and the lagoon can get crowded.
"🌊 Secret Lagoon, El Nido – A Hidden Gem with a Bit of a Challenge
Our visit to the Secret Lagoon was truly unforgettable, though getting there wasn’t easy. During our trip, the tide was high and the waves were quite strong, making the entrance a bit tricky. You have to kneel or crouch down to squeeze through the narrow opening, and I even got a small wound on my knees along the way.
Once inside, the lagoon itself was smaller than expected, and there wasn’t much space to stand , probably because of the tide at the time. But despite the challenging entry, the experience was still magical. The hidden beauty of the place, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, made it all worth it.
It’s a raw, natural adventure, not the most comfortable, but definitely memorable. Just be prepared and wear proper footwear!"
Mary June Venus
"The most beautiful place I've ever seen in my life. Nothing more to say really."
Antony
"Among all the attractions of Tour A from El Nido, this one will be ranked 2.
Not very deep and getting into this hidden lagoon is bit of an adventure.
The beach is also a nice one. Big boats cant go near to beach so you need to do a little bit of swimming and then walking over coral/stones. But be very careful while walking in the water, found many got hurt."
Fazal Mahmud Roni
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Secret Lagoon is typically visited as part of El Nido's Island Hopping Tour A. Boats depart from El Nido town.
The most common and recommended way is by joining an organized island hopping tour from El Nido.
While possible to hire a private boat, joining a tour is more common and often more cost-effective for accessing multiple sites like Secret Lagoon.
The boat ride to Miniloc Island, where Secret Lagoon is located, usually takes around 30-45 minutes depending on sea conditions.
No, Secret Lagoon is only accessible by boat as part of island hopping tours in El Nido.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Secret Lagoon is usually included in the El Nido island hopping tour package. There might be a separate environmental fee.
Secret Lagoon is accessible during daylight hours as part of island hopping tours. Specific times depend on the tour operator.
While the tour covers most costs, there's often an environmental fee for visiting the lagoons and islands in El Nido.
You need to swim and crawl through a narrow, low opening in the limestone rocks. It's an adventure! +1
High tide can make the entrance difficult or impossible. It's best to visit during low tide for easier access.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main activity is entering the lagoon, marveling at the unique rock formations, and enjoying the secluded, emerald waters.
It can get very crowded, especially during peak season and midday. Visiting early in the morning is recommended.
Wear swimwear and water shoes for easy movement and protection. A waterproof bag for your phone is a must.
It can be challenging for non-swimmers due to the entry crawl. Tour guides often assist, but it requires some comfort in water.
Typically, tours spend about 30-45 minutes at Secret Lagoon, allowing time for entry and photos.
📸 📸 Photography
The entrance crawl itself, the view from inside looking out, and the dramatic limestone cliffs surrounding the lagoon are prime photo opportunities.
Use a waterproof phone case or action camera. Capture the contrast between the dark entrance and the bright lagoon.
Drone usage might be restricted in protected areas like El Nido's lagoons. Check local regulations before flying.
Morning light can be softer, while midday sun can make the water appear more vibrant emerald green.
Yes, but ensure it's well-protected from water. A waterproof camera or a sealed waterproof bag is highly recommended.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a private tour if you have very young children or concerns about navigating the entrance with a group. This allows for more flexibility with timing and pace.
Alternatively, focus on other, more easily accessible spots on Tour A like Seven Commandos Beach or Big Lagoon, which offer more space for children to play and swim. adventurous Solo Travelers
It's a great opportunity to meet fellow travelers on the tour and share the excitement of discovery. Bring a waterproof camera or phone case to capture the dramatic scenery and your own daring entry.
Budget Travelers
Opting for group tours is significantly cheaper than hiring a private boat. While there might be an environmental fee, it's usually a small cost for access to multiple stunning locations. Focus on tours that combine Secret Lagoon with other popular sites like Big Lagoon and Shimizu Island to maximize your value.
The adventure and natural beauty of Secret Lagoon offer a high return on investment for budget-conscious travelers. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Entrance: A Unique Challenge
+1 This process is highly dependent on the tide. During low tide, it's a manageable, albeit adventurous, maneuver. However, at high tide, the waves can be stronger, and the opening might be partially or fully underwater, making entry significantly more challenging and potentially risky. Travelers often share tips about preparing for this unique entry. Wearing water shoes is crucial for grip on the potentially slippery and sharp coral or rocks both outside and inside the lagoon.
Despite the physical challenge, the reward is a truly unique experience. The feeling of discovering a hidden sanctuary, enclosed by dramatic natural walls, is what makes the effort worthwhile for many. It's a raw, natural adventure that sets Secret Lagoon apart from more easily accessible spots.
The Lagoon's Secluded Beauty
The sheer scale of the rock walls is awe-inspiring, making visitors feel small amidst nature's grandeur. While the lagoon itself might not be vast, its beauty lies in its exclusivity and the dramatic scenery. It's a place for quiet contemplation and soaking in the unique atmosphere.
The contrast between the dark, narrow entrance and the bright, open (yet enclosed) lagoon is striking. Photography enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities here. Capturing the interplay of light and shadow on the limestone, the vibrant water, and the unique entrance can result in stunning shots.
However, remember to keep your camera gear protected from the water. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit