From Puerto Princesa: Honda Bay Island Hopping Full-Day Tour

Imagine spending a day exploring tropical islands, swimming among colorful fish, and relaxing on pristine beaches—all in one smooth, well-organized trip. That’s what the Honda Bay Island Hopping Full-Day Tour promises, and from what travelers report, it often delivers on that warm, island-vacation dream.

Designed for those seeking an authentic taste of Palawan’s coastal charm without the hassle, this tour combines convenience, natural beauty, and plenty of opportunities for fun in the sun.

What we love about this experience is the seamless transportation and the chance to visit three distinct islands—Cowrie, Luli, and Starfish Island—each with its own personality and attractions. We also appreciate the included picnic lunch, which allows you to fuel up without breaking the bank or worrying about extra costs.

But keep in mind, the tour does have a few considerations: such as the optional environmental fee and the need for your own snorkeling gear if you want to maximize the underwater fun.

This tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded, budget-friendly day of island hopping, especially families, solo travelers, or couples looking to enjoy Palawan’s marine life and stunning scenery.

Key Points

• All-in-one day trip to three islands with transportation included
• Opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on beautiful beaches
• Delicious picnic lunch provided on Starfish Island
• Guided tour with friendly, English-speaking guides ensuring smooth experiences
• Affordable price point around $42 per person, offering good value
• Flexible cancellation policy with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Honda Bay Island Hopping Experience

The Honda Bay tour from Puerto Princesa offers an accessible way to enjoy some of Palawan’s most picturesque coastal spots. At around 7 hours, this full-day adventure packs enough activities and sightseeing to satisfy both nature lovers and those simply seeking some R&R. You’ll be picked up from your hotel early in the morning, usually around 7:00 am, giving you plenty of time to savor the day without feeling rushed. The round-trip transportation in air-conditioned vans makes the journey comfortable, especially after a warm day in the sun.

You’ll spend the bulk of your time on motorized boats, which carry you comfortably between the islands. The tour is inclusive of the entrance fees for Cowrie, Luli, and Starfish Islands, plus shed and terminal fees, simplifying your planning. The guides, captains, and crew are licensed professionals who focus on creating a smooth, informative experience.

By mid-afternoon, around 3:00 pm, you’ll be back at your hotel, tired but happy with your day in paradise. The structured timing ensures you get maximum enjoyment without overstaying your welcome at any one spot.

Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect at Each Island

Pick-up and Transfer

Your day begins with hotel pickup. Expect to be ready at least 15 minutes early; drivers typically wait no longer than 15 minutes past the scheduled pickup time. This early start means you’ll avoid the midday crowds and enjoy the cooler morning air as you set off.

Starfish Island

This is where your marine adventure begins. Starfish Island is renowned for its calm waters and abundant starfish along the shoreline. Travelers often rave about the chance to see these fascinating creatures up close—just be sure to wear shoes that protect your feet, as one reviewer suggests. The island also boasts a picnic area where you’ll enjoy a hearty lunch prepared by your guide, with some reviews praising the quality and flavor of the food.

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Cowrie Island

Next, the boat takes you to Cowrie Island, which has earned high praise from visitors for its natural beauty. With its soft white sand and lush greenery, it’s an ideal spot for relaxing, swimming, or snapping photos of postcard-perfect scenery. The shallow waters here are perfect for wading and enjoying calm, safe swimming.

Luli Island

Luli Island stands out for its unique feature: a shallow diving area ideal for snorkelers. The island’s crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life make it a favorite among those wanting to see colorful fish and coral. Many visitors mention the pleasure of swimming with the fishes and the convenience of a designated snorkeling zone.

Return and Drop-off

Around 3:00 pm, your boat and van will ferry you back to your hotel. While the schedule is tight, it’s enough time to enjoy each island without feeling overly rushed—especially if you’re keen on relaxing, swimming, or light snorkeling.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

From the reviews, it’s clear that many travelers appreciated the well-organized nature of the trip. One reviewer called it “organized to perfection,” which speaks to the smooth flow of activities and pickups. The inclusion of a licensed guide and friendly crew adds a layer of reassurance, especially if you’re not familiar with the local area or language.

The tour’s value is quite good considering the price of about $42. It covers transportation, entrance fees, and a picnic lunch—eliminating many hidden costs. However, note that optional extras like kayak use or snorkeling gear are not included and are available at additional costs. Also, an environmental fee applies—Php 150 for adults and Php 120 for children or seniors—which helps maintain the islands’ pristine condition.

What to Bring

• Swimwear and change of clothes for after swimming
• Towel and beachwear
• Water shoes for rocky or coral areas
• Waterproof camera or phone case for underwater shots
• Snacks and bottled water (though lunch is provided)
• Sunscreen and a hat to prevent sunburn (long sleeves recommended, as one reviewer advised)

What Not to Bring

• Alcohol or intoxication is prohibited
• Heavy valuables—keep it simple and lightweight

The Experience in Perspective

Travelers consistently mention the beauty of the islands, with phrases like “Cowrie Island was beautiful.” The calm waters and soft sands make it a perfect day trip for families or solo travelers looking to escape the city for a slice of paradise.

Snorkeling is a major highlight, especially at Luli Island’s designated area. Guests often comment on the abundance of fish and the clarity of the water. The picnic lunch, usually praised for its tastiness, offers a break to enjoy local flavors amid stunning surroundings.

The overall organization and guide service are another strong point, with reviewers noting how smoothly everything runs. The trip offers a balanced mix of activities—swimming, relaxing, sightseeing—and enough free time to soak it all in.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers seeking an affordable, all-inclusive way to see some of Palawan’s best islands, this tour is a solid choice. You’ll get a good overview of Honda Bay’s highlights without the stress of planning logistics or navigating on your own. The inclusion of a guided experience, picnic lunch, and transportation makes it a practical option, especially for first-time visitors.

The tour’s value is amplified by the genuine natural beauty of the islands and the chance to see marine life up close. Whether you’re interested in snorkeling, lounging on white sands, or simply enjoying the scenery, this trip ticks many boxes. It’s especially ideal for those who want a relaxed, organized outing that offers a taste of tropical island life.

Given the positive reviews, reasonable price, and the chance to experience multiple islands in one day, this tour is a dependable choice for anyone visiting Puerto Princesa looking to make the most of their time at sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting around 7:00 am with hotel pickup and returning by about 3:00 pm.

What is included in the price?
The price covers round-trip air-conditioned van transfers, a motorized boat, entrance fees for the three islands, a picnic lunch, shed and terminal fees, and services of a licensed guide and crew.

Are snorkeling gears included?
No, snorkeling masks and gears are not included but can be rented at an extra cost if you wish to explore underwater.

Is there an environmental fee?
Yes. You’ll need to pay Php 150 for adults or Php 120 for children and seniors, which helps fund island maintenance.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, water shoes, waterproof camera, snacks, and sunscreen. Long sleeves are recommended to avoid sunburn.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What is the best age group for this tour?
It’s suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers who want an easy, organized day of island hopping. Keep in mind children should be comfortable with water activities.

Do I need to bring my own food?
No, a picnic lunch is provided, but bringing extra snacks or bottled water is always a good idea.

In all, this Honda Bay Island Hopping tour offers a well-balanced, enjoyable way to soak up Palawan’s coastal charm without a hefty price tag. With some preparation, it’s a fantastic introduction to the natural beauty and laid-back island life that makes this part of the Philippines so special.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby