Grocery Shopping in El Nido: Supermarkets, Convenience Stores & Price Comparisons

Planning the perfect El Nido getaway involves more than just booking flights and tours. Smart grocery shopping can significantly impact your budget and overall experience, especially if you’re staying in a villa, self-catering, or simply want to save on dining costs. This guide will walk you through the grocery options in El Nido, from supermarkets to convenience stores, and how to get the best deals.

Who is this guide for?

This is for everyone visiting El Nido, but particularly:

• Budget Travelers: Looking to minimize expenses by cooking some meals.
• Families: Needing to stock up on snacks and drinks for everyone.
• Villa/Airbnb Guests: Planning to self-cater during their stay.
• Tourists with Dietary Restrictions: Wanting to ensure they have access to specific food items.

Meet Your El Nido Grocery Shopping Assistant

Need a grocery list tailored to your trip? Our AI-powered chatbot is here to help! Simply tell it your needs – for example, “groceries for 4 days for two people” – and it will generate a list with estimated costs and where to find the items. It’s designed to navigate the El Nido grocery landscape for you. Coming in 2025, the chatbot will integrate an AI grocery list optimizer specifically for backpackers and villa stays, taking into account your cooking facilities and preferences.

Top Grocery Spots in El Nido

El Nido offers a range of options to suit your needs. Here’s a breakdown of the main players:

• Robinsons Supermarket: The largest supermarket in El Nido, located in the town proper. It offers the widest selection of products, including imported goods, fresh produce (though quality can vary), and a good range of local items. Expect slightly higher prices than Puregold, but the convenience and variety are worth it for many.
• Puregold El Nido: A popular choice for budget-conscious shoppers. It focuses more on essential groceries and household items. You’ll find good deals on local produce, rice, noodles, and canned goods. It’s a bit further from the main tourist area than Robinsons.
• 7-Eleven: Scattered throughout El Nido town, these convenience stores are perfect for quick snacks, drinks, travel-sized toiletries, and basic necessities. They are open 24/7, making them incredibly convenient, but prices are considerably higher than supermarkets. Think of it as a lifesaver for forgotten items or late-night cravings.

Impact on Your Tour: Planning Ahead

Don’t underestimate the impact of grocery shopping on your El Nido adventure!

• Island Hopping: If you’re going on an island hopping tour, stock up on snacks and water beforehand. Prices on the boats are significantly higher.
• Remote Stays: If you’re staying in a more remote area (like Nacpan Beach), it’s best to do a larger grocery shop in El Nido town before heading there, as options will be limited.
• Dietary Needs: If you have specific dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free), El Nido’s options can be limited. Bring any essential items with you.

Life Hacks for Smart Grocery Shopping in El Nido

• Bring a Reusable Bag: Plastic bags are becoming less common and you may be charged for them.
• Check Expiration Dates: Especially on imported goods, it’s a good idea to check the expiration dates.
• Bargain at Local Markets: For fresh produce, try the local market (though selection can be limited). A little polite bargaining is often acceptable.
• Consider Local Brands: Local brands are often much cheaper than imported ones and can be just as good.
• Water is Key: Buy large bottles of water to refill smaller bottles. Staying hydrated is crucial in the tropical heat.
• Power Outages: Be prepared for occasional power outages. Stock up on non-perishable snacks that don’t require refrigeration.

Price Comparisons (Approximate – as of late 2023/early 2024)

• 1.5L Bottle of Water: 7-Eleven: ₱50-60, Robinsons/Puregold: ₱35-45
• 1kg Rice: 7-Eleven: ₱60-70, Robinsons/Puregold: ₱45-55
• Can of Soda: 7-Eleven: ₱30-40, Robinsons/Puregold: ₱20-25
• Local Bread (Pan de Sal): Robinsons/Puregold (bakery section): ₱5-10 per piece

Practical Recommendations

• First Day: Head to Robinsons or Puregold for a big shop to cover the bulk of your needs.
• Throughout Your Stay: Use 7-Eleven for quick top-ups and emergencies.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Ask: Locals are generally friendly and helpful. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance finding items.

By planning ahead and utilizing these tips, you can enjoy delicious meals and save money during your unforgettable El Nido vacation. Don’t forget to use our chatbot for a personalized grocery list! For tour guide contacts, reach out via telegram:@ElnidoRent, Whatsapp:639988866550, or Phone: +63282487369.