Las Cabañas Beach | El Nido

Las Cabañas Beach, also officially known as Marimegmeg Beach, is one of the most accessible and popular coastal spots in El Nido, Palawan. It is primarily famous for being the best sunset viewing point on the mainland.

Visual Characteristics

The beach features a crescent-shaped shoreline with golden-white sand and calm, clear waters. It is lined with leaning coconut palms and a variety of beachfront bars and cafes. Looking out from the shore, the view is dominated by the nearby Depeldet Island, which is connected to the mainland by a sandbar during low tide. The towering limestone karst mountains of the Bacuit Archipelago are visible in the distance.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Taytay - El Nido National Hwy, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines.

Access: Located approximately 5–6 kilometers south of El Nido town center.

Transport:

Tricycle: A 15-minute ride from El Nido town.

Walking: Accessible via a short downhill walk from the main highway or through the Vanilla Beach outdoor shopping mall.

Entry: No entrance fee for the beach itself.

Historical & Cultural Origin

The beach was originally a quiet coconut plantation. Its name "Las Cabañas" comes from the pioneer resort built in the area. In recent years, it has transformed into a vibrant commercial hub while maintaining its natural appeal, serving as the social center for visitors returning from island-hopping tours.

Key Highlights & Activities

Sunset Viewing: The beach faces west, providing unobstructed views of the sunset.

Ziplining: A 750-meter zipline connects the mainland to Depeldet Island, allowing for a flight over the water.

Swimming: The waters are shallow and generally calm, making it suitable for all swimming levels.

Island Walk: During low tide, visitors can walk across the sandbar to Depeldet Island.

Beach Hopping: It is part of a continuous stretch of sand that includes Marimegmeg Beach.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The area is highly developed compared to other mainland beaches. It features the Vanilla Beach complex, which houses modern shops, restaurants, and restrooms. Numerous beach bars offer music and cocktails. Accommodation ranges from luxury villas at Las Cabañas Beach Resort to nearby hostels. 4G/5G cellular coverage is strong.

Best Time to Visit

16:00 to 18:30: The peak time for those looking to secure a spot at a beach bar for the sunset.

Dry Season (December to May): Ensures the best weather for outdoor activities and clear horizon views.

Rules

No Single-Use Plastics: Part of El Nido's city-wide ban.

Footwear: Wear sandals or aqua shoes if planning to walk over rocky parts of the sandbar.

Waste Management: Use the provided bins in the commercial areas; do not leave trash on the sand.

Nearby Landmarks

Vanilla Beach (Shopping/Dining): Directly adjacent.

Marimegmeg Beach: Continuous with the northern end of Las Cabañas.

Corong Corong Beach: 3.0 km North.