Puerto Princesa Honda Bay Island Hopping (shared tour)

Imagine a day spent relaxing on sun-drenched beaches, swimming among colorful fish, and snapping photos of stunning islands—all without the hassle of planning. That’s the promise of the Honda Bay Island Hopping tour from Puerto Princesa. It’s a popular choice for travelers craving an authentic, fun-filled day in Palawan’s marine paradise, and from the reviews and itinerary, it’s clear why.

What we love about this experience is the straightforward nature of the trip. You get to visit three well-chosen islands—Luli, Cowrie, and Starfish Island—each offering something unique. Plus, the inclusive picnic lunch is a real highlight, giving you a chance to fuel up amid scenic surroundings.

On the flip side, the tour is a full 8 hours, which might be a long day for some, especially if you prefer shorter outings or are on a tight schedule.

This tour is well-suited for those who want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation in a group setting. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo travelers eager to meet others while exploring a diverse marine ecosystem. Just keep in mind that it’s not designed for travelers with mobility issues, and the environmental fee of P150 is extra.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation: Air-conditioned van pick-up from your hotel ensures a smooth start.
• All-inclusive fees: Entrance, island, cottage port, and boat fees are covered, so no surprise costs.
• Marine experiences: Snorkeling, swimming, and picture-taking opportunities at each island.
• Local guide: Licensed tour guide ensures you get insightful commentary.
• Flexible cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Value for money: At $56, it offers a comprehensive day out with lots of activities.

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Starting the Day: Convenient Hotel Pickup and Transit

Your day begins early, with pickup from your hotel between 7:30 and 7:45 am. This early start means you’ll beat the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience on the islands. Traveling in an air-conditioned van from Puerto Princesa’s city proper to Honda Bay port takes about 30 minutes, providing a comfortable ride that sets the tone for the day.

This transportation setup is a plus—it’s hassle-free and ensures you don’t have to worry about logistics. The pickup only covers city proper, so if you’re staying outside town, double-check to see if additional arrangements are needed.

The Journey to Honda Bay: A Scenic 30-Minute Ride

Once at Honda Bay Port Beach, the group gathers before boarding the boat for island hopping. The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering views of the bay’s shimmering waters and the smaller islands dotting the horizon. It’s a peaceful segment that hints at the marine biodiversity awaiting you.

The boat is shared with other travelers, which fosters a lively, communal atmosphere. Expect to be onboard for the majority of the morning, traveling between Luli, Cowrie, and Starfish Islands.

Island Highlights: Luli, Cowrie, and Starfish Islands

Each island offers distinct experiences:

Luli Island

Known for its shallow, clear waters and white sandy beaches, Luli is perfect for relaxing and wading. Its shallow waters make it ideal for wading and taking in the underwater scenery without needing extensive snorkeling gear. As one reviewer notes, “Luli is very calming, and I loved just floating on the surface and soaking in the sun.”

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Cowrie Island

This island combines a good balance of beach lounging and snorkeling opportunities. It features a coconut tree-lined shoreline and a small resort area where you can rent equipment or simply chill in a hut. The snorkeling here is enjoyable, with vibrant coral reefs and a variety of fish, making it suitable even for beginners. A visitor mentioned, “The coral and fish were surprisingly colorful, and I could spend hours just swimming around.”

Starfish Island

Famous for its starfish populations, this island offers a chance to get up close with these gentle creatures—just be careful not to step on them! The shallow waters make it easy to spot starfish and other marine life. Many describe it as the highlight, saying, “Seeing the starfish in their natural habitat was unforgettable.”

Note: The tour includes free time at each island for swimming, picture-taking, and relaxing. The tour guides are helpful and often provide snorkeling equipment if needed.

Lunch: A Feast Amidst Nature

After a morning of activity, everyone gathers for a delicious picnic lunch. Prepared on one of the islands, the meal is a much-appreciated break that offers a taste of local flavors. It’s simple but satisfying, and you’ll be glad to have your energy replenished for the afternoon.

Many reviews highlight the quality of the lunch, describing it as “fresh, tasty, and filling.” It’s a good way to enjoy your meal amid stunning surroundings, often with a sea breeze in your hair.

Wrapping Up: Return Journey and Hotel Drop-off

By mid-afternoon, it’s time to head back to Puerto Princesa. The boat ride back offers more scenic views, and the group departs around 4 pm, returning to your hotel by late afternoon or early evening. This allows for some time to relax or prepare for dinner.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The cost of $56 per person covers transportation, entrance fees, boat fees, the guided tour, a picnic lunch, and accident insurance. The only extra cost is the P150 environmental fee, payable at the site—something to keep in mind for budgeting. If you’re looking for a hassle-free day with all essentials taken care of, this package offers good value.

The Experience Guide: A Friendly, Knowledgeable Companion

The tour is led by a licensed guide speaking English. Reviews praise the guide’s friendliness and helpfulness, often mentioning how they added context and answered questions, making the day more meaningful. The guide’s insights help travelers understand the marine biodiversity and the significance of Honda Bay’s ecological status.

Practical Tips for the Day

• Bring a waterproof camera and water shoes for snorkeling and beach walking.
• Wear lightweight, quick-dry beachwear.
• Consider packing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the sun.
• Bring extra cash for optional souvenirs or additional snacks.
• Note that alcohol and drugs are not allowed, maintaining a safe, family-friendly environment.

Additional Information and Considerations

The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, mainly because of the boat transfers and beach terrain. The tour duration is fixed at 8 hours, making it a full day’s commitment. If you’re short on time or prefer shorter excursions, this might feel a bit long, but most reviews indicate that the experience is worth the time.

The flexibility of cancelling up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund adds peace of mind, especially if your plans are still flexible.

This Island Hopping tour is ideal for travelers seeking a full day of marine adventure and relaxation. It offers a good balance of snorkeling, beach lounging, and cultural experience with an inclusive meal, all at an accessible price point. It’s well-suited for families, groups, or solo travelers eager to connect with Palawan’s natural beauty without the complication of planning every detail. Those who dislike long travel days or have mobility challenges might want to consider other options, but for most, it’s a straightforward, enjoyable introduction to Honda Bay’s charms.

Ultimately, this trip offers a value-packed way to see some of Palawan’s best islands, with enough flexibility to make your day special.

What is included in the tour price?
The $56 fee covers transportation via air-conditioned van, entrance and boat fees, a picnic lunch, a licensed guide, and accident insurance. You’ll also need to pay a P150 environmental fee separately.

What should I bring?
Bring a waterproof camera, beachwear, and water shoes for snorkeling and beach activities. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are also recommended.

Are there any age or mobility restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to boat transfers and beach terrain. It’s primarily designed for able-bodied travelers.

When does the tour start and end?
Pick-up is from 7:30 to 7:45 am, and the tour runs approximately 8 hours, returning around 4 pm.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is the lunch provided vegetarian or vegan?
The review notes a “delicious picnic lunch,” but specifics about dietary options aren’t detailed. It’s best to check in advance if you have special dietary needs.

What makes Honda Bay a special place to visit?
Honda Bay’s biodiversity, starfish populations, and scenic islands make it a unique spot for snorkeling, relaxing, and experiencing nature in Palawan.

This Honda Bay Island Hopping tour offers an authentic, enjoyable way to see some of the Philippines’ most beautiful marine environments. With great value, friendly guides, and a variety of activities, it’s a good choice for travelers eager to spend a day in the sun, sand, and sea—just pack your sense of adventure and a waterproof camera.

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