Small Lagoon, El Nido

The Small Lagoon sits around the headland from its larger neighbour and works differently: instead of an open channel, the way in is a narrow slot in the limestone, wide enough for one kayak at a time and low enough that at high tide people duck. Inside is an enclosed pool of clear green water ringed almost completely by cliff, with a small cave at one side, overhanging rock, and enough shade that the water stays cool. Swimming here is better than in the Big Lagoon - deeper, more sheltered, with fish over the rocks - and snorkels are worth carrying. The catch is the same one that affects everything in Bacuit Bay: the gap creates a bottleneck, and in peak hours kayaks queue to get in and out. The tide matters too, since the entrance shrinks as the water rises.

What you actually see

• The rock gap - the narrow slot that is the only entrance.
• The enclosed pool - clear water walled by cliff.
• The side cave - the small hollow at the lagoon's edge.
• The cliff shade - cool water even at midday.

When to go

November to May, and as early in the day as the boats allow. Check the tide - the entrance gap is easiest at mid to low water.

Honest expectations

The entrance bottlenecks badly at peak hours. Kayaks are hired separately and are the practical way in. Life jackets are required and the rock is sharp - shoes help.

Nearby

Big Lagoon is minutes away; Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island and Seven Commandos complete Tour A.