Matinloc Shrine | El Nido

Matinloc Shrine is a historical and religious site on Matinloc Island in El Nido, Palawan. It is a key stop on "Tour C" island-hopping itineraries, known for its panoramic views and unique architecture.

Visual Characteristics

The site features a small, white-domed gazebo and a semicircular structure with stone columns housing a statue of the Virgin Mary. Tucked between sheer limestone cliffs and a small beach, the shrine appears abandoned and weathered. A narrow, steep stone staircase leads to a viewpoint atop the karst rocks, offering a symmetrical view of the nearby islands and turquoise channels.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Matinloc Island, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines.

Access: Only reachable by boat from El Nido town or Corong Corong Beach.

Transport: * Boat: Motorized outrigger boats (bangkas) dock at a small pier or the shore.

Travel Time: Approximately 45–60 minutes from El Nido town.

Entry: Requires an entrance fee (approx. 100 PHP) and a valid Eco-Tourism Development Fee (ETDF) permit.

Historical & Cultural Origin

Built in 1982 by a local family, the shrine was officially dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It served as a site for annual pilgrimages for several years before the facility was abandoned. Local legends suggest the site was also used for "treasure hunting" in the 1990s, though it remains primarily a religious landmark.

Key Highlights & Activities

The Viewpoint: Climbing the jagged limestone stairs for a 360-degree view of the Bacuit Archipelago.

Architecture: Exploring the neoclassical-inspired columns and the central dome.

Small Museum: A nearby building contains basic information about the site's history and former occupants.

Snorkeling: The waters in front of the shrine feature a drop-off with diverse coral and fish.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The site is largely deserted with no active services. There are no restrooms or shops. Tour boats provide all food and water. Cellular signal is non-existent due to the high limestone walls.

Best Time to Visit

Dry Season (December to May): Best for climbing the limestone stairs, which can be slippery when wet.

Morning: Early visits avoid the midday heat and the peak arrival of Tour C groups.

Rules

No Single-Use Plastics: Strictly enforced.

Safety: Use extreme caution on the viewpoint stairs; they are sharp and lack handrails in some sections.

Dress Code: While not strictly enforced, modest behavior is encouraged due to the site's religious nature.

Nearby Landmarks

Hidden Beach: 1.0 km North.

Secret Beach: 2.0 km South.

Tapiutan Island: Directly opposite across the channel.