Dolarog Beach Resort

We came for Valentine’s and wanted somewhere near town that still felt peaceful. This place fit perfectly, close to everything in El Nido but tucked away once you arrive. The owners kindly upgraded us, which made the stay feel even more special. The view of Pinagbuyutan Island is the sort you can sit and look at for ages. It slows you down without trying. The whole place has an easy, unpretentious feel, and the staff were warm and welcoming. Simple in the best way. We’d stay again.

The Wi-Fi was reasonably good, but at the price they charge, I came away feeling ripped off. I wouldn’t recommend the resort despite its beautiful beachfront setting. Getting there is awkward: the golf buggy takes about 15 minutes along a long muddy road with large potholes, and ours got bogged down. At night, guests pay 350 pesos each way for a ride between the main road and resort, since private vehicles can’t enter or leave. That felt unjustified for such an expensive stay. Service was mostly poor, apart from Maia. Staff sometimes didn’t record written orders and then forgot them. Our room had no hot water, housekeeping was unreliable, bottled water wasn’t always supplied, and the AC took as long as four hours to cool the room. The coconut trees aren’t maintained well, and coconuts often fall, which seems like a serious safety risk. Check the final bill carefully, as it may have several errors. If I’d paid a third of the rate I wouldn’t be as critical, but at this price the experience didn’t feel worth it.

We saw some bad reviews when booking and cut our stay from five nights to three. I wish I’d known the management had changed and things had improved. I can’t speak to how it used to be, but we thoroughly enjoyed our time and only wished we’d stayed longer. The staff were wonderful, happy to chat about the island and sort out boat trips, kayaking, or other activities. They were accommodating with every question and request. The food was great, with Filipino dishes as well as simple chicken and pasta, and breakfast options from eggs with bacon or sausage to beef, Mackrell, fruit, yogurt, or toast. You arrive by boat in about ten minutes, and they carry your luggage, which we really appreciated after the long trip. The resort is secluded, with just guests and staff. There’s a pool table, foosball, darts, a gym, a seawater pool, and snorkeling gear whenever you want it. A boat can take you into town, though we didn’t feel much like leaving. The location was just perfect.

If you expect European standards, this probably isn’t the place. Still, it may be the best hotel you’ll find in El Nido. The staff are very sweet and kind, and waking up by the sea with those amazing views is the highlight. The beach feels almost private, with no other hotels around.