Karuna El Nido Villas

The meals were consistently fresh and well cooked, and we especially liked the water spinach and honey garlic chicken wings. Lemer, Jane, Geo, Wilma, and RV were warm and attentive when serving us, while Grace from the concierge team made sorting activities and transport easy. Our La Vida Dulce villa was beautiful and comfortable, with a view to wake up to each morning. Karuna Glamping sits above Bacuit Bay, looking out to turquoise water and limestone islands. Sunrise and sunset were surreal, and it felt like one of the best views in the world. An unforgettable stay, and we'd recommend it to anyone coming to El Nido.

Diane and Lester at reception were so kind, accommodating, and knowledgeable. I even asked Diane if we could add another night, though it meant changing rooms, after that first interaction. A young woman at the desk whose name I can't recall also brought Baygon all the way up to our Lumbung villa. Jane in the restaurant was quiet but very sweet and patient while we took ages deciding what to order. The staff made my mom's long-held dream of visiting Palawan feel worry-free for our family. We spent our last night at another hotel across the street, and Karuna still arranged a private transfer back to the airport for us, for a fee. Their shuttle into El Nido town was convenient, and it was easy to book island tours with transport included. The tours cost more, but the convenience made them worthwhile. The resort seems more geared toward Western guests, yet we still felt the warmth of Filipino hospitality. The service reminded me of what we've had at a Four Seasons. Karuna will be my choice if we're back in El Nido, or when they open in Siargao. Thank you for looking after my family and me.

Getting up and down the steep hill can take effort, so it may be tricky for anyone with mobility issues, but the climb felt worth it. The pool has a stunning bay view, and the service there was friendly and great. Complimentary shuttles into town ran reliably, and the staff even offered rides up and down the hill. Everyone we met, from security and reception to the service team, was professional and kind. The rooms are lovely, the food and breakfasts are good, and the hospitality made for a wonderful stay in El Nido. I'd recommend it.

Those complimentary rides into town were simple to arrange and made getting around stress-free. The whole place has a calm, peaceful feel, and everyone from reception to the restaurant crew and drivers was attentive and kind. Our room at Karuna’s Cocoon was striking and unusual, with an amazing view. The daybed on the deck was a lovely extra. We also enjoyed the restaurant, especially the breakfast burrito, and the pool area is relaxing with what may be the best views in El Nido.