New Year Traditions and Turtle Releases: Why January is Magical in El Nido

IMS HII • December 16, 2025

There's something transformative about starting the year in paradise. As fireworks fade and resolutions take shape, El Nido, Palawan transforms into a destination where Filipino tradition meets natural wonder. January offers a rare convergence of cultural celebration and ecological magic—where the warmth of New Year festivities blends seamlessly with the quiet miracle of turtle hatchlings taking their first steps toward the sea.



At Charlie's El Nido, we believe January is when El Nido reveals its most authentic character. The crowds have thinned from the December rush, the weather settles into perfect island rhythm, and both culture and nature invite you to witness something extraordinary.

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The Miracle of Turtle Season in January

While cultural celebrations light up the first week of January, a quieter miracle unfolds along El Nido Palawan beaches throughout the month. January falls within the critical sea turtle nesting and hatching season, making it one of the most meaningful times to visit. Three endangered species nest on these beaches: the critically endangered Hawksbill turtle, the endangered Green turtle, and the vulnerable Olive Ridley turtle. Conservation efforts across El Nido have shifted from traditional egg poaching to community-driven protection, with the El Nido Marine Turtle Conservation Network coordinating resorts, local organizations, and community members to monitor nesting sites, protect eggs in climate-resilient hatcheries, and conduct nightly patrols.

  • Stone in wet sand, reflecting the hazy sunrise.

    Slide title

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The Miracle of Turtle Season in January

While cultural celebrations light up the first week of January, a quieter miracle unfolds along El Nido Palawan beaches throughout the month. January falls within the critical sea turtle nesting and hatching season, making it one of the most meaningful times to visit. Three endangered species nest on these beaches: the critically endangered Hawksbill turtle, the endangered Green turtle, and the vulnerable Olive Ridley turtle. Conservation efforts across El Nido have shifted from traditional egg poaching to community-driven protection, with the El Nido Marine Turtle Conservation Network coordinating resorts, local organizations, and community members to monitor nesting sites, protect eggs in climate-resilient hatcheries, and conduct nightly patrols.


Beaches like Duli Beach, Nacpan Beach, and protected areas throughout the Bacuit archipelago serve as nurseries for new generations of turtles. Temperature-controlled hatcheries give eggs their best chance of survival, safeguarded from predators and climate change. When hatchlings emerge, symbolic release ceremonies allow visitors to witness their determined crawl toward the ocean, beginning a journey spanning decades and thousands of miles. Many El Nido hotels and tour operators work closely with conservation groups, demonstrating that luxury and environmental stewardship coexist beautifully in El Nido, Palawan's best hotels, including our hotel in El Nido.

Beaches like Duli Beach, Nacpan Beach, and protected areas throughout the Bacuit archipelago serve as nurseries for new generations of turtles. Temperature-controlled hatcheries give eggs their best chance of survival, safeguarded from predators and climate change. When hatchlings emerge, symbolic release ceremonies allow visitors to witness their determined crawl toward the ocean, beginning a journey spanning decades and thousands of miles. Many El Nido hotels and tour operators work closely with conservation groups, demonstrating that luxury and environmental stewardship coexist beautifully in El Nido Palawan best hotel properties, including our hotel in El Nido.

The Miracle of Turtle Season in January

While cultural celebrations light up the first week of January, a quieter miracle unfolds along El Nido Palawan beaches throughout the month. January falls within the critical sea turtle nesting and hatching season, making it one of the most meaningful times to visit. Three endangered species nest on these beaches: the critically endangered Hawksbill turtle, the endangered Green turtle, and the vulnerable Olive Ridley turtle. Conservation efforts across El Nido have shifted from traditional egg poaching to community-driven protection, with the El Nido Marine Turtle Conservation Network coordinating resorts, local organizations, and community members to monitor nesting sites, protect eggs in climate-resilient hatcheries, and conduct nightly patrols.


Beaches like Duli Beach, Nacpan Beach, and protected areas throughout the Bacuit archipelago serve as nurseries for new generations of turtles. Temperature-controlled hatcheries give eggs their best chance of survival, safeguarded from predators and climate change. When hatchlings emerge, symbolic release ceremonies allow visitors to witness their determined crawl toward the ocean, beginning a journey spanning decades and thousands of miles. Many El Nido hotels and tour operators work closely with conservation groups, demonstrating that luxury and environmental stewardship coexist beautifully in El Nido Palawan best hotel properties, including our hotel in El Nido.

  • Boats on turquoise water near rocky islands, sun shining.

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  • Kayakers on turquoise water between limestone cliffs.

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  • Kayakers on turquoise water between rocky cliffs. Lush green vegetation and blue sky.

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Perfect January Weather for Island Adventures

January’s weather makes it one of El Nido, Palawan’s most appealing months, with comfortable temperatures averaging 26–28°C (80–82°F) and gentle breezes cooling warm days and pleasant evenings. This peak dry season creates ideal conditions for the iconic island-hopping tours that define the El Nido experience. Tour A navigates the Big and Small Lagoons, while Tours C and D reveal hidden beaches, secret lagoons, and dramatic landscapes accessible only by boat.


Underwater visibility in January is excellent for snorkeling and diving, with marine sanctuaries around Helicopter and Miniloc Islands teeming with colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and often graceful sea turtles. Clear skies highlight stunning sunrises and sunsets over limestone cliffs, with morning departures catching golden hour light and sunset visits offering the perfect tropical end to each day. Visitors staying at our hotel in El Nido can enjoy these experiences in comfort.

  • Boats on turquoise water near rocky islands, sun shining.

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  • Kayakers on turquoise water between limestone cliffs.

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  • Kayakers on turquoise water between rocky cliffs. Lush green vegetation and blue sky.

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  • White buildings with brown roofs surround turquoise pools, lush green trees, and mountain backdrop.

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  • Hotel entrance with a shuttle bus parked in front, tropical plants, and a cloudy sky.

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  • Signpost for LiO, showing directions to LiO Beach, The Flor, shops, and resorts, in a natural setting.

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  • Two people doing yoga in a studio with a mirror. They are in the upward-facing dog pose on mats.

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  • Plates of fries, potato wedges, burgers, and hotdogs with various dipping sauces on a table.

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  • Woman working out with a dumbbell on a weight bench in a gym.

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  • A pool with a jacuzzi, two lounge chairs, and a modern white house with a deck.

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  • Spacious hotel room with wooden beams, king bed, sofa, desk, and TV. Neutral colors, natural light.

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  • Two twin beds with white bedding, light blue blankets, and floral pillows in a hotel room with warm lighting.

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  • Bedroom with balcony, neutral tones, wood furniture, king bed, and sunset view.

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Why Charlie's El Nido is Your January Sanctuary

After days exploring lagoons, witnessing turtle conservation, and embracing island traditions, returning to Charlie’s El Nido feels like coming home. Located in Villa Libertad just 15 minutes from El Nido Airport, our peaceful retreat offers complimentary shuttles to key destinations like Lio Beach and El Nido town. Guests enjoy thoughtfully designed spaces that match the season’s slower rhythm, from mornings at our celebrated breakfast buffet to afternoons by the swimming pool with mountain and Cadlao Island views. The yoga room and modern fitness center cater to wellness routines, while Charlie’s Restaurant serves fresh, locally sourced cuisine throughout the day.

  • White buildings with brown roofs surround turquoise pools, lush green trees, and mountain backdrop.

    Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button
  • Hotel entrance with a shuttle bus parked in front, tropical plants, and a cloudy sky.

    Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button
  • Signpost for LiO, showing directions to LiO Beach, The Flor, shops, and resorts, in a natural setting.

    Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button
  • Two people doing yoga in a studio with a mirror. They are in the upward-facing dog pose on mats.

    Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button
  • Plates of fries, potato wedges, burgers, and hotdogs with various dipping sauces on a table.

    Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button
  • Woman working out with a dumbbell on a weight bench in a gym.

    Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button
  • A pool with a jacuzzi, two lounge chairs, and a modern white house with a deck.

    Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button
  • Spacious hotel room with wooden beams, king bed, sofa, desk, and TV. Neutral colors, natural light.

    Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button
  • Two twin beds with white bedding, light blue blankets, and floral pillows in a hotel room with warm lighting.

    Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button
  • Bedroom with balcony, neutral tones, wood furniture, king bed, and sunset view.

    Slide title

    Write your caption here
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Why Charlie's El Nido is Your January Sanctuary

After days exploring lagoons, witnessing turtle conservation, and embracing island traditions, returning to Charlie’s El Nido feels like coming home. Located in Villa Libertad just 15 minutes from El Nido Airport, our peaceful retreat offers complimentary shuttles to key destinations like Lio Beach and El Nido town. Guests enjoy thoughtfully designed spaces that match the season’s slower rhythm, from mornings at our celebrated breakfast buffet to afternoons by the swimming pool with mountain and Cadlao Island views. The yoga room and modern fitness center cater to wellness routines, while Charlie’s Restaurant serves fresh, locally sourced cuisine throughout the day.


Families can relax in 46-square-meter Family Rooms with private balconies, couples find serenity in Premier Rooms, and larger groups can reserve Charlie’s Villa with four bedrooms, a full kitchen, and private pool. Our rooftop bar offers sunset views with craft cocktails, and the concierge team arranges island-hopping tours and connections with conservation initiatives. Staying at El Nido, Palawan's best hotel ensures every detail of your January escape in El Nido, Palawan is seamless and unforgettable.

Families can relax in 46-square-meter Family Rooms with private balconies, couples find serenity in Premier Rooms, and larger groups can reserve Charlie’s Villa with four bedrooms, a full kitchen, and private pool. Our rooftop bar offers sunset views with craft cocktails, and the concierge team arranges island-hopping tours and connections with conservation initiatives. Staying at our El Nido Palawan best hotel ensures every detail of your January escape in El Nido Palawan is seamless and unforgettable.

  • Couple in Santa hats, plaid shirts. Charlie's Holiday advertisement with 30% off, red and gold accents, and poinsettias.

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Charlie's Holiday: Your Gateway to January Magic

Start your year with tropical serenity. Charlie's Holiday promotion offers 30% off best available rates when you book between October 1 and December 10, 2025, for stays from October 1 to December 14, 2025, letting you experience El Nido’s magic early in the season.

Your stay includes a welcome drink, daily complimentary breakfast with tropical fruits, local specialties, and international options, plus dining discounts at Charlie's Restaurant featuring the finest El Nido ingredients. Enjoy effortless travel with our 24/7 airport shuttle and free scheduled shuttles to Lio Beach and El Nido town proper, combining convenience with the peaceful sanctuary of Villa Libertad.


  • Couple in Santa hats, plaid shirts. Charlie's Holiday advertisement with 30% off, red and gold accents, and poinsettias.

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Charlie's Holiday: Your Gateway to January Magic

Start your year with tropical serenity. Charlie's Holiday promotion offers 30% off best available rates when you book between October 1 and December 10, 2025, for stays from October 1 to December 14, 2025, letting you experience El Nido’s magic early in the season.


Your stay includes a welcome drink, daily complimentary breakfast with tropical fruits, local specialties, and international options, plus dining discounts at Charlie's Restaurant featuring the finest El Nido ingredients. Enjoy effortless travel with our 24/7 airport shuttle and free scheduled shuttles to Lio Beach and El Nido town proper, combining convenience with the peaceful sanctuary of Villa Libertad.

  • Couple in Santa hats, plaid shirts. Charlie's Holiday advertisement with 30% off, red and gold accents, and poinsettias.

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Ready to begin your year in paradise?

Book your stay at Charlie's El Nido and discover why January is when El Nido, Palawan reveals its most magical character. Visit our website or contact our reservations team to plan your unforgettable island escape.