Stunning Republic Beach Resort

Although it may fall somewhat short of the "stunning" part of its name, the property is a great pick for value-minded travelers. It is located on a cute fine-sand beach a short drive from El Nido town and features simple yet clean and comfortable rooms that offer better value for money than some more expensive properties in the area, including the neighboring El Nido Four Seasons Resort. The hotel is compact and quaint, but overall simple, with basic furniture, few ornaments, and limited services. Rooms and common areas are housed in several two-story buildings with white facades and pitched red or nipa roofs set amid palm trees and tropical plants, and a small wooden gate opens directly onto the sand. The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating, including on a covered terrace by the water, complete with straw hammocks and tables. 

The vibe here is relaxed and casual, and most guests are drawn to the property for its affordable rates, clean rooms with hot water (not always available in budget hotels in the area), and beachfront location. There are many other accommodation options in and around El Nido, but this is definitely one of the best value ones. Travelers seeking something even cheaper can find an array of hostel-like properties in the area, but Our Melting Pot El Nido is one of the top choices thanks to clean dorms and private rooms, free breakfast, and a fun yet mostly quiet atmosphere. El Nido Bayview Resort is a good alternative for those with a bigger budget -- its beach is nicer (and swimmable) and rooms come with a few additional perks, such as great beds and wonderful views. 

The hotel is located on a narrow stretch of fine sand lined with tropical trees just far enough from the tourist traps in El Nido town to feel quiet but still be within a quick drive of the center for easy access to restaurants and shops. There are a few other hotels and a handful of casual dining options in the immediate vicinity, but most guests prefer to take a trike to El Nido, located just five minutes away. Several other beaches can be found within a short drive of the hotel, but not all are suitable for swimming, so guests should ask the front desk before picking one for the day. El Nido Airport is a 20-minute drive away, and transfer services can be booked at the hotel for a fee. 

The hotel has 20 air-conditioned rooms, all featuring balconies with sea views. Decor ranges from simple to contemporary depending on the room type. Standard units feature traditional wooden furniture, orange or red curtains, and a few floral accents on beds runners. Surf-green accent walls are cute touches, but the overall feel is low-frills. Deluxe units received some updates in 2017 and feel more modern, with black leather-like couches and bed frames, dark wooden furniture, and blue curtains and throw pillows. 

Room amenities are basic but good for the price, and include ceiling fans, flat-screen TVs, and safes. Deluxe units are outfitted with mini-fridges, and a number of electric kettles are available on request at no extra charge. Larger Superior and Deluxe rooms feature twin-sized sofa beds for an additional guest. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property but it's only guaranteed in common spaces. Some rooms, though, may pick up internet signal on the terrace. Basic bathrooms have wet room-style showers with plastic curtains, unlimited hot water, and plain beige tiles throughout. Only hand soap is provided, and rooms lack hairdryers. Water is sourced from the local well and is not suitable for drinking, which is the norm in the region. 

Room rates include a basic breakfast of omelets, pancakes, toast, or rice with eggs and bacon, plus juice from concentrate, tea, or coffee. Any changes come with an extra fee. The restaurant serves an average international menu consisting of Italian, Mexican, and Asian dishes, as well as a few vegetarian options. Guests can dine in their room, in the air-conditioned dining room, or on the shaded terrace by the beach. Sea kayaks, fishing rods, and other non-motorized water sports are available for a fee on-site, and the hotel owns two boats for island-hopping tours. This is also one of the few value properties in the area that has its own generator for blackouts, which can be common depending on the season.