Funny Lion El Nido
Playful safari-meets-tropical boutique. Think warm tropical tones, bold lion branding, staff with real personality, and a pool scene that doubles as the social hub.
Book Friday nights to catch the Fire Grill Buffet at Hunt Restaurant — PHP 999 nett per person.
Why It Matters
Michelin Guide-recommended and ranked #1 in El Nido. Condé Nast Johansens Best Value Experience 2025 and Best Service 2026. Smart Travel Asia Top 10 Sustainable, New, and Best Value Hotels in Asia. The standout is the staff — multiple reviewers describe being greeted by name throughout the stay.
The Funny Lion is a playful, eco-chic boutique resort sitting right in El Nido's town center — a deliberate choice that puts you steps from dive shops, boat tour operators, and the bus and ferry terminals. The 50 rooms are compact at 26 sqm but smartly designed with locally sourced materials, breezy pool-view balconies, and small luxuries that make post-adventure downtime genuinely comfortable. It's Michelin Guide-listed, ranked No. 1 in El Nido by travelers, and has earned recognition from Condé Nast Johansens and Smart Travel Asia — and it earns those accolades mainly through service that actually remembers your name.
Where You'll Stay
2 room types available
Cub Room
The entry-level room does twin beds at 26 sqm. Compact but well-thought-out: pool-view balcony, mini-fridge stocked with complimentary drinks, coffee and tea setup, and organic toiletries. Works well for two friends or a parent with a young child. Maximum occupancy is 2 adults plus 1 child aged 6 and under.
2 Twin Beds · 26 sqm
King Room
Same 26 sqm footprint as the Cub Room but with a king bed — the go-to for couples. Balcony looks out over the pool, and the room ships all the same kit: stocked fridge, tea and coffee, organics, safe, and the notably comfortable beds that get called out in almost every guest review. Maximum occupancy is 2 adults plus 1 child aged 6 and under.
1 King Bed · 26 sqmThe Property
Eat & Drink
3 venues on property
Restaurant
Spa & Wellness
Treatment Menu
On Property
How you'll actually spend your days.
Available at Papaya Beach per guest reviews.
Complimentary bicycles available for guests to explore the town and surroundings.
Diving arrangements can be made through the concierge; several dive shops are within walking distance of the hotel.
The hotel organizes El Nido's classic island-hopping routes, with access to Snake Island in Bacuit Bay, Big Lagoon (steep limestone cliffs surrounding turquoise-green water), and Small Lagoon (best limestone rock formations in the area). The concierge helps book and coordinate.
Available as part of island-hopping tour packages arranged through the hotel.
Weekly Friday night grill event at Hunt Restaurant. PHP 999 nett per person — all-you-can-eat spread of grilled dishes.
Complimentary daily access to Papaya Beach via the hotel's shuttle service. The beach has a volleyball net, hammocks, and swings — and it's notably less crowded than El Nido's main beaches. One of the most-praised perks at the property.
Amenities & Practical Info
The details that matter for planning.
The property has no lift — guests with mobility needs should be aware.
Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout rooms and public areas. Speeds of 25+ Mbps reported.
Complimentary breakfast buffet included with stays. American, Asian, and continental options. Staff-praised for quality and variety — reviewers specifically note the crispy bacon never runs out.
Sits in the middle of the property, surrounded by the Hunt Restaurant terrace and room balconies. Open daily 7am–10pm.
Equipped with modern fitness facilities for guests. No published hours confirmed.
Available during limited hours.
Staff assist with tour bookings, local recommendations, and transport arrangements.
Paid airport transfer service to/from Lio Airport (12 km). Book in advance.
Complimentary scheduled shuttle service to Papaya Beach for all hotel guests.
BUILD YOUR THE FUNNY LION EL NIDO PLAN
Rooms, dining, spa, and resort experiences — organized into one trip plan.
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