Puerto Princesa: Honda Bay Tour with Lunch

Thinking about a day away from the bustling streets of Puerto Princesa? A visit to Honda Bay offers a tranquil escape filled with white sands, crystal-clear waters, and lively marine life. This Honda Bay island hopping tour is a popular choice for travelers seeking relaxing beaches, snorkeling adventures, and a taste of Filipino hospitality—all for around $40 per person.

Our review give you a balanced, detailed look at what you can expect, helping you decide if this tour fits your travel style.

What we particularly like about this experience is the comfort of hotel pickup and the chance to see some of Palawan’s most scenic spots in a single day. The guide’s local knowledge often shines through, making the trip more engaging. On the flip side, some travelers mention that the cost of additional activities like masks and snorkels isn’t included, which might catch you off guard if you’re planning to snorkel extensively.

This tour is best suited for those looking for a straightforward, well-organized day of sun, sea, and sand—perfect for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a hassle-free island escape.

Key Points

• All-in-one day trip with pickup, boat transfers, and lunch included
• Visit three islands: Cowrie, Luli, and Starfish Islands, each offering unique sights
• Snorkeling and watersports available, with opportunities to see vibrant marine life
• Authentic experience with a friendly English-speaking guide
• Great value for the price, considering all amenities and entrance fees covered
• Not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues due to boat travel

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Why Choose the Honda Bay Tour?

Honda Bay is a highlight for many visitors to Puerto Princesa because it delivers a compact but diverse taste of Palawan’s coastal charm. Unlike longer, more complex excursions, this tour condenses the essentials: pristine beaches, fun watersports, and a laid-back island vibe. The hotel pickup makes it especially appealing, removing the stress of arranging transportation. Once at the wharf, a friendly guide greets you, ready to share insights and ensure things run smoothly.

The boat ride between islands is short but scenic, offering views of the bay’s calm, inviting waters. The stops are well-chosen: Luli Island’s sandbar is perfect for walking and lounging, Cowrie Island provides a picturesque picnic spot, and Starfish Island gives you an up-close look at marine life without needing to venture far underwater. The lunch—a buffet — is a highlight, served on Cowrie Island, with options to relax and enjoy the sea breeze while sampling local flavors.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

Most tours begin with a hotel pickup within Puerto Princesa, which we appreciate for its convenience. The journey to Honda Bay isn’t long, typically 30-45 minutes, giving you a chance to meet your guide and fellow travelers. The group size tends to be moderate, making it easy to socialize but still intimate enough to feel personalized.

Luli Island: Play on the Sandbar

Your first stop is often Luli Island, known for its long, flag-decorated sandbar. This stretch of white sand connects to shallow waters ideal for wading and relaxing. The calmness of the waves makes this a favorite for families and those wanting a leisurely morning. As one reviewer notes, “We loved the way the sandbar stretches out—it’s perfect for taking photos and just soaking up the sun.” The shallow waters are also inviting for kids and less confident swimmers.

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Cowrie Island: Lunch and Water Activities

Next, you’ll head to Cowrie Island, where a buffet lunch awaits. It’s a chance to refuel before more fun in the water. The island itself is quite picturesque, with clear waters and a backdrop of lush greenery. Most guests use this time to snorkel, kayak, or try banana boat rides—activities that the tour often facilitates. One reviewer mentioned, “Snorkeling here was fantastic, with vibrant coral reefs and lots of colorful fish.” Keep in mind, snorkel gear isn’t included, so if you want to explore underwater, bringing your own or renting locally might be necessary.

Starfish Island: The Star of Marine Life

The final stop is typically Starfish Island, famous for its hundreds of starfish just beneath the waves. This spot offers an unforgettable chance to see marine life up close, especially if you’re into snorkeling. The underwater gardens create a vivid display of colors and textures. Many guests appreciate the informative guide, who points out different species and shares insights. As one review states, “Seeing the starfish so close was a highlight—it’s like a natural aquarium.”

Return and Drop-Off

After a few hours of fun, it’s back on the boat to Puerto Princesa, with a stop at the wharf for smooth transfer back to your hotel. The entire day typically wraps up by early to mid-afternoon, leaving you with the evening free.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package includes hotel pickup, boat transfers, entrance fees, a guide, and a buffet lunch—a package that offers good value considering the convenience and access. The entrance fees for the islands are covered, and the English-speaking guide is praised for making the trip more informative and enjoyable.

However, travelers should budget extra for snorkeling masks and fins, which are not included. Some reviews have noted this as a minor inconvenience, especially for those eager to snorkel extensively. The environmental fee is also not included in the base price, so you’ll need to prepare cash for that at the entrance.

Practical Tips for Your Honda Bay Tour

• Bring a waterproof camera to capture the vibrant marine life and scenic views.
• Cash is handy for optional activities, snacks, or purchasing souvenirs.
• Wear swimwear and sun protection—a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential.
• If snorkeling is a priority, consider bringing your own mask and fins or renting them at the islands.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s wise to verify with the provider if mobility is a concern.
• Timing varies; check availability to see the starting times so you can plan accordingly.

Authentic Experiences from Other Travelers

Many guests commend the knowledgeable guides, describing them as friendly and helpful. One reviewer said, “The guide made the trip special with interesting facts about the islands and marine life.” Others loved the stunning views—noting that the trip offers a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Some mention that the beaches are less crowded than other tourist spots in Palawan, making it feel more authentic and peaceful.

On the downside, some found the additional costs for snorkeling gear a bit disappointing, so plan ahead if snorkeling is a priority. A few travelers also mention that weather can impact the experience, especially if it’s windy or rainy, so check the forecast before booking.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re looking for a well-organized, value-packed day trip with a focus on scenic beaches, marine life, and a laid-back vibe, the Honda Bay tour delivers. It’s a solid choice for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a break from city life. The inclusive lunch, hotel pickup, and friendly guides make it a hassle-free way to enjoy Palawan’s waters.

While it might not satisfy those seeking a full-fledged diving experience or extensive snorkeling, it provides enough variety—sandbars, snorkeling, and a starfish encounter—to keep most happy. The authentic island atmosphere and stunning views ensure that you’ll leave with plenty of memorable moments.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate straightforward, comfortable arrangements and want a taste of Palawan’s natural beauty without too much fuss. It offers a reliable, enjoyable way to spend a day in paradise — one that balances relaxation, adventure, and cultural authenticity.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers a convenient hotel pickup within Puerto Princesa, making it easier to start your day stress-free.

What islands will I visit?
You’ll visit Luli Island, Cowrie Island, and Starfish Island, each offering unique sights and activities.

Is snorkel gear provided?
No, masks and snorkels are not included in the package, so consider bringing your own or renting locally.

How long is the tour?
It’s a full-day experience, generally lasting about 8 hours, starting from pickup to return.

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

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially since the calm waters and shallow beaches make it family-friendly. However, check if your children are comfortable on boat rides.

Are there any physical restrictions?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but those with mobility issues should confirm with the provider beforehand.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, cash, sun protection, and possibly snorkeling gear if you want to explore underwater more extensively.

In summary, the Honda Bay island hopping tour in Puerto Princesa offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience Palawan’s stunning coastlines and marine life. It’s well-suited for travelers seeking an easy, scenic day with plenty of photo opportunities and fun water activities. With friendly guides and a relaxed pace, it’s a memorable slice of island life — perfect for those wanting a straightforward taste of paradise.

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