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AS PREDICTED, NOCTOURISM HAS BECOME QUITE THE TRAVEL TREND IN 2025
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LAGEN ISLAND IN THE PHILIPPINES INTRODUCES NEW NIGHTTIME EXPERIENCES AHEAD OF ITS JULY 2025 RE-OPENING
Renderings and high-res imagery available to download here
High-res imagery of Lagen Island’s surroundings available to download here
Noctourism Images here
April, 2025: Set against the limestone cliffs and cerulean waters of El Nido in Palawan, Philippines, Lagen Island is set to unveil its transformation this July following an extensive renovation. Located in the heart of the Philippines, this private island resort is surrounded by tropical forest and a turquoise lagoon.
As noctourism – the pursuit of nighttime travel experiences – gains momentum globally, Lagen Island’s remote location and therefore minimal light pollution becomes even more tempting. With some of the world’s darkest skies, the Island is a nocturnal playground for after-dark adventures.
Interest in the night sky is booming. Booking.com recently named "noctourism" a major travel trend for 2025, after a survey of more than 27,000 travellers found that around two-thirds have considered visiting "darker sky destinations" to experience activities like starbathing and witnessing once-in-a-lifetime cosmic events. More travellers are also opting for nocturnal explorations to escape rising daytime temperatures, with 54% citing climate change as a motivating factor and 61% looking to avoid intensifying UV rays.
Lagen Island Lies Beneath a Blanket of Stars
Lagen Island has recently acquired a Dobsonian 16” SynScan Sky-Watcher telescope, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the celestial wonders above. Free from light pollution and surrounded by the tranquillity of its private lagoon, the island offers an extraordinary opportunity to witness the Milky Way’s brilliance.
£££: This stargazing experience is priced at £140 for up to two guests, inclusive of cocktails and light snacks.
Illuminated Nighttime Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Launching in 2025, Lagen Island will introduce clear kayaks and paddleboards equipped with LED lighting to illuminate the marine life beneath. Exploring the waters after dark reveals a mesmerising underwater world, from sleeping turtles to rare coral species which flourish in the surrounding reefs.
In 2023, a coral species called Pectinia maxima – nicknamed Pmax – generated a lot of excitement due to scientists’ announcements that it was critically endangered but a small healthy stand could be found off one of Lagen Island’s coves. Not soon after, another stand of this significant coral was found just off Lagen Island. This is an ode to the brilliant work that El Nido Resorts do to preserve their part of the planet. Guests can be a part of something magical at Lagen Island, and nighttime kayaking and paddleboarding to see the underwater world in this unmatched part of the planet is something special.
£££: Nighttime kayaking and paddleboarding is available a Lagen Island for £90 per person.
Cliffside Movie Nights
Another new addition for 2025, Lagen Island will transform its towering limestone cliffs into an open-air cinema where guests can enjoy film screenings under the stars for a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience.
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Rates at Lagen Island start from £1,000 / $1,300 per night on a bed and breakfast basis (all other meals are a la carte), inclusive of transfer from Lio Airport to the El Nido Resorts Jetty Lounge and the 30-45 minute boat ride to Lagen Island. The rate is based on double occupancy.
For more information, visit www.elnidoresorts.com/lagen-island/
About Lagen Island, El Nido
Lagen Island, part of the El Nido Resorts portfolio, is a secluded resort in the heart of the Philippines. Located amidst the limestone cliffs and still waters of Palawan, the island is a sanctuary for travellers seeking connection with nature and quiet luxury. The island’s thoughtful transformation, set to debut in Q3 2025, will redefine barefoot luxury while honouring Filipino heritage. From its eco-conscious design, fully integrated spa and wellness space, and beach club, to its state-of-the-art Marine & Biodiversity Discovery Centre and new Kids Exploration Club, Lagen Island will invite guests to explore the unspoiled beauty of the Philippines while experiencing a true sense of place.
Since its opening in 1998, Lagen Island has been a pioneer in responsible travel, championing immersive experiences with local communities and environmental preservation through the voices of its own dedicated sustainability team. And now, in 2025, that remains very much the same. Every aspect of the redesign has been guided by a deep commitment to preservation – from protecting fragile marine ecosystems to minimising environmental impact.
Lagen Island isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience—an opportunity to slow down, reconnect, and rediscover the joy of travel with purpose.
UK Press Enquiries:
Emily Falkner, Kristie Crozier & Elinor Fresson at Lemongrass Travel PR
E: elnidoresorts@lemongrassmarketing.com
T: +44 (0)1865 237 990
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