Content Produced in Partnership with El Nido Resorts
I’ve never been the type of person to idly sit on the beach. I prefer to get up and go, embracing all the fun a destination has to offer. When it came time to for our trip to the Philippines, I knew I wanted a resort that would connect me to the best these tropical islands had to offer — with a few modern conveniences thrown in. To my delight, my husband I found Miniloc Island Resort was made with active travelers in mind.
Located a short boat ride away from El Nido Island, Miniloc Island lies along a white sand beach in between a series of limestone cliffs. Guests who stay in this quaint, 50-room resort can kayak to and from the Big and Small Lagoons and take in the natural beauty of the landscape at their leisure. Here are the details that transformed Miniloc Island Resort from a property with good reviews online to my piece of paradise for three full days:
Steps Away from Adventure
Miniloc Island Resort is known as an “eco-discovery” resort, meaning there are plenty of opportunities for you to get in touch with the natural beauty of the landscape during your stay. You can swim, windsurf, and kayak from the resort beach and the house reef is perfect for snorkeling (snorkel, fins and mask provided). There is a long list of daily group activities ranging from feeding the giant, black Jack Fish, sunrise/sunset cruises, and tours to nearby islands and beach clubs. We loved kayaking in the small lagoon when the water was peaceful and clear — we felt like we had the entire island to ourselves! Scuba diving excursions are available at an added cost as are spa treatment sessions at the on-site spa (highly recommend a sunset aromatherapy session).
Lasting Impressions
Before we had even set foot on the grounds on the resort, it was clear Miniloc Resort takes pride in its hospitality. Once through security in the Manila airport, a kind woman greeted us and escorted us to the El Nido Resorts’ lounge for light refreshments before our quick flight to Palawan Island. That was just the first taste of what was to come. Upon arrival at Miniloc Island Resort, resort team members treated us a to a drum performance and a welcome toast before offering about the many activities — kayaking, boating, ecotours — the resort offered (most of which are included with your stay, I might add!). Similarly, while at an activity on another island property, an employee took us out on a small sailing catamaran on his own accord upon a conversation we had and took the time to teach us how to judge the wind, steer and control speed. Their attentiveness made a lasting impression on us.
All About the Details
Miniloc Island Resort takes the best of the Philippines and weaves them into every detail of the island retreat to create a truly authentic and luxurious experience for the guests. Miniloc Island Resort is purposely designed as a small, traditional thatched-roof village. The accommodations, ranging from garden to beachside cottages, feature private verandas and incredible views of the Bay. All meals at the resort are included with your reservation. The massive buffet features a range of Filipino specialties that differ morning, noon, and night, and, as I can attest, the chefs at the on-site restaurant will go above and beyond to accommodate their guests. I dislike the texture and idea of seafood and do my best to steer clear of it. However, one day at lunch there was a dish that looked amazing and just tempting enough to try. The chef took notice and offered to create something similar — sans fish. The resulting special-order, high-maintenance chicken pancit was probably my favorite meal of my entire stay. The staff went out of their way to ensure that everything was always to my liking.
Ready to go? Miniloc Islan Resort is exquisite and the perfect place for your next vacation. Click here to begin planning your own adventure.