The Best Backpacker Hostels in El Nido, Philippines

Though a bit on the pricier end, this artsy hostel offers more than just a simple bed and bath. It’s detailed and beautiful and the perfect environment for meeting open, like-minded, adventure-seeking individuals. Making a conscious effort to foster an ideal atmosphere for socializing, Spin not only has several shared spaces that are bright and cozy, they also regularly organize fun events like pub crawls, barbecues, and karaoke nights. Clean, endearingly stylish, and serving a good breakfast – this is a far cry from your run-of-the-mill hostel.

Outpost is the fun-loving backpacker’s perfect pick. It sits right on the beach of Corong-Corong (about a five-minute tricycle ride from the El Nido town proper) and emanates a vibrant, social energy to go with their great common areas overlooking the beach and sea. At night, these areas come alive when the hostel encourages everyone to get together through activities and a nightly theme. Drinks, good music, new friends, and a spectacular view of the sunset — for the fun, young, social traveler, Outpost is hard to beat.

If you want to distance yourself from the crowded El Nido town proper, perhaps a hostel on Nacpan beach (less than an hour on scooter or via tricycle from town) would better suit your fancy. Unlike the one by El Nido town, this beach is actually one you’d want to relax on. Mad Monkey Hostel sits perfectly beachfront, allowing guests stunning views throughout their stay — their second floor open-air lounge provides just about the best seats in the house. The staff nurture a social and relaxed atmosphere, making guests feel right at home and comfortable with one another. Despite being a rather young establishment, Mad Monkey already has several high points that put them ahead of the competition including spacious beds, a great bar, and breathtaking unobstructed views.

Perfect for the no-frills traveller, Our Melting Pot Hostel has all the basic amenities one would need for a painless price tag. With its central location, attentive staff, maintained cleanliness, and basic breakfast included daily, this hostel leaves little else for a backpacker to ask for.