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How to Get to Cauayan Island Resort [2025–2026 Guide]

To reach Cauayan Island Resort (El Nido) in 2025–2026, fly Manila → El Nido (1h20m, ₱7,000–9,000), then a 25-min boat ride (₱1,500–2,000). Total trip: ~2 hrs, ₱8,500+.

Cauayan Island Resort is a luxury private island hideaway in El Nido, Palawan, famous for its white sand beaches and overwater villas. Since it’s on a secluded island, you’ll need a domestic flight + short boat transfer to reach it. Here’s everything you need to know for 2025–2026.

✈️ Step 1: International Flight to Manila or Cebu

Main entry points: Manila (MNL) or Cebu (CEB).
Airlines: Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, etc.
Example flight times:
- Singapore → Manila: 3.5 hrs
- Tokyo → Manila: 4.5 hrs
- Los Angeles → Manila: 14 hrs

🛩️ Step 2: Domestic Flight to El Nido

Airline: AirSWIFT (only carrier flying direct to El Nido Airport, ENI).
Route: Manila → El Nido.
Duration: ~1 hr 20 mins.
Cost: ₱7,000–9,000 (~US$125–160) one way.
Frequency: 3–5 flights daily.
Tip: Book early—flights sell out fast during peak season.

🚐 Step 3: Transfer from El Nido Airport to Cauayan Island Boat Dock

Duration: ~15 minutes by van.
Cost: Included when booking with Cauayan Island Resort.
Convenience: Resort staff meet you at El Nido Airport.

🛥️ Step 4: Boat Transfer to Cauayan Island Resort

Duration: ~25 minutes.
Cost: ₱1,500–2,000 (~US$25–35) per person, usually included in resort packages.
Schedule: Boats are coordinated with flight arrivals.

🚐 Alternative Route via Puerto Princesa (Budget Option)

Fly Manila → Puerto Princesa (1 hr 15 mins, ₱3,000–4,000).
Take a van/bus to El Nido (5–6 hrs, ₱700–900).
Then boat transfer to Cauayan Island Resort (25 mins).
Total time: ~7–8 hrs.
Best for travelers on a budget.

🌤️ Best Time to Visit (2025–2026)

Dry Season (Nov–May): Best weather, calm seas, higher rates.
Wet Season (Jun–Oct): Cheaper, fewer tourists, but possible rain showers.

💡 Travel Tips

Always book transfers directly with the resort for smooth coordination.
Pack light: AirSWIFT limits baggage (10–15 kg standard allowance).
Bring cash (Philippine Peso) for small expenses in El Nido.
If flights are full, consider Puerto Princesa as backup.

✅ Travel Summary Table

Step	Route	Time	Cost (approx.)	Notes
✈️ Intl Flight	Origin → Manila/Cebu	3–14 hrs	Varies (US$300–900 RT)	Depends on departure city
🛩️ Domestic Flight	Manila → El Nido	1h 20m	₱7,000–9,000 (US$125–160)	AirSWIFT only
🚐 Land Transfer	El Nido Airport → Boat Dock	15 mins	Included	Arranged by resort
🛥️ Boat Transfer	El Nido → Cauayan Island Resort	25 mins	₱1,500–2,000 (US$25–35)	Usually bundled in resort stay
⏱️ Total Journey	Manila → Cauayan Island Resort	~2 hrs	₱8,500+ (~US$150+)	Faster but pricier than Puerto Princesa route

❓ FAQs: How to Get to Cauayan Island Resort

1. What is the nearest airport to Cauayan Island Resort?
El Nido Airport (ENI), serviced by AirSWIFT from Manila, Cebu, and Clark.

2. How do I get from Manila to Cauayan Island Resort?
Take a 1h20m AirSWIFT flight to El Nido, then a 25-min boat ride arranged by the resort.

3. How long does it take to reach Cauayan Island Resort?
About 2 hours from Manila (flight + boat transfer).

4. How much does it cost to get to Cauayan Island Resort?
Around ₱8,500–11,000 (~US$150–190) per person one way from Manila.

5. Can I travel to Cauayan Island Resort via Puerto Princesa?
Yes, but it takes ~7–8 hrs (flight + 5–6 hr van + boat). Cheaper but slower.

6. Is the boat transfer included in the resort booking?
Often yes, but confirm at booking. Standard rate is ₱1,500–2,000 per person.

7. When is the best time to visit Cauayan Island Resort?
November to May for sunny weather and calm seas.

8. Do I need a visa for the Philippines?
Citizens of most countries (US, EU, ASEAN) get 30 days visa-free entry.

✅ With this 2025–2026 guide, you now have the exact costs, times, and routes to easily plan your journey to Cauayan Island Resort.