El Nido has transformed since my first visit in 2013. This is a good and bad thing, but I wouldn't discourage you from making plans. There are now more accommodation options since my first trip.
Here are my suggestions on where to stay in El Nido.
Spin Hostel is one of the best in town. It has a cozy and spacious common room where you can hang out with and meet other travelers. The beds in the dorm are big and comfortable. The showers and toilet are always clean and the staff friendly. The breakfast is included even for the dorms. Some of the facilities and services include laundry service, safety boxes, luggage storage, shared kitchen, and they also offer tours.
Check rates here: Spin Designer Hostel
Outpost Beach Hostel
Outpost has a nice ambiance where you will get to meet other travelers and watch the sunset. They have a bar and restaurant. They also have a hang out area where you can just chill or hang out with other travelers. The beds are comfortable for a good night's sleep. You can book a tour with them for island hopping.
Check rates here: Outpost Beach Hostel
Frendz Hostel
The air conditioned rooms are comfy and the common spaces are great places to meet and mingle with other travelers. The hostel also has free wi-fi (but don't expect good service in El Nido). Housekeepers clean regularly to keep rooms tidy.
The Cavern Pod Hotel & Specialty Cafe
This hotel has a traditional facade and comfortable rooms. Wi-fi is available in all rooms and you can avail of room service for 24 hours. Guestrooms comes with welcome drink, linens, dressing room and others. They also offer surfing lessons and water sports equipment for rent.
Check rates here: The Cavern Pod Hotel & Specialty Cafe
Cuna Hotel
This comfy hotel ticks off the basics and then some. The rooms are simple but fetching and comfortable. They have all you need for a good night's sleep. The hotel has free Wi-fi and other amenities such as luggage storage, outdoor swimming pool, safety deposit box and others.
Check rates here: Cuna Hotel
You can read my post about El Nido: travel guide and budget for El Nido