Puerto Princesa: Honda Bay Island Hopping with Picnic Lunch

Travelers craving a mix of sun, sea, and vibrant marine life will find this Honda Bay island-hopping tour a compelling choice. Set in Puerto Princesa, Palawan’s renowned gateway to nature’s beauties, this experience offers a well-rounded day of exploring three iconic islands. It’s perfect for those seeking relaxed, picturesque escapes with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and unwinding on powdery beaches.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to snorkel among rich corals at Luli Island. Second, the chance to spot colorful starfish on Starfish Island—a genuine treat for marine life enthusiasts. Third, the ample downtime on Cowrie Island, where you can just soak up the scenery and enjoy a tasty picnic.

A potential consideration? The tour’s reliance on weather conditions means it’s best suited for days with clear skies and calm seas. If you’re after a flexible schedule or prefer private, customized adventures, you might want to explore other options. Still, for most travelers eager to experience Palawan’s marine treasures, this tour fits the bill quite well.

This experience is ideal for those who want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, family groups, or anyone looking to maximize their time in Puerto Princesa without the hassle of organizing multiple transfers. Just pack your swimwear and sunscreen, and you’re all set for a memorable day!

Good To Know

• Includes transport, guide, entrance, boat fees, and a picnic lunch, making it a convenient all-in-one experience.
• Snorkeling among colorful corals and vibrant marine life is a highlight.
• Visit three distinct islands: Luli Island, Starfish Island, and Cowrie Island—each offering a unique vibe.
• Flexible options with private group configurations and free cancellation.
• Weather-dependent activity—good weather ensures the best experience.
• Affordable value at $55 per person for a full day of island adventures.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Honda Bay Island-Hopping Tour

The Experience Overview

This 7-hour tour provides a compact yet immersive lesson in Palawan’s stunning coastal environments. Starting from your accommodation in Puerto Princesa, you’ll be transported via van to the wharf, ready to explore three of Honda Bay’s most stunning islands. The tour is well-paced, with roughly two hours allocated to each stop, allowing ample time to swim, snorkel, take photos, or simply lounge on the beach.

The Transportation and Group Size

Transportation is comfortably arranged with van transfers, and the tour can accommodate private groups, ensuring a more personalized experience. The group size is capped at 13 people per van, striking a good balance between intimacy and social vibe. The pickup and drop-off are included within 15 kilometers of the airport—an important factor to note if you’re staying outside this zone, as an additional fee applies.

The Islands: What Makes Them Special

Luli Island – The Tidal Sandbar Paradise

First stop is Luli Island, famous for its sandbars that appear and vanish with the tides. It’s a photographer’s dream—standing on the shifting sands, with shallow waters teeming with corals and marine life. The two hours here give you plenty of time to snorkel among the corals or just lounge while soaking in the panoramic views. According to one reviewer, “We loved the way the sandbars change with the tides—such a surreal experience,” highlighting how unique this part of the tour is.

Starfish Island – A Marine Life Safari

Next up is Starfish Island, which lives up to its name. Here, visitors often get the chance to see and even touch vibrant starfish in their natural habitat. The clear waters make snorkeling rewarding, and the opportunity to observe marine creatures in the wild is genuinely memorable. One guest shared, “You can spot colorful starfish in the water, making it a perfect spot for underwater photography.” The shallow waters make it accessible for all skill levels, and guides are usually on hand to ensure safe and respectful interaction with the marine life.

Cowrie Island – The Relaxing Finale

The last stop is Cowrie Island, a true tropical getaway. It’s the best spot to unwind, enjoy the beach, and indulge in the included picnic lunch. The island’s powdery white sands and calm waters are ideal for swimming or just soaking up the sun. One reviewer noted, “Unwinding here after snorkeling was perfect, and the picnic lunch was surprisingly good,” emphasizing how well this stop balances activity with relaxation.

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The Food and Facilities

A picnic lunch is included, usually consisting of local delicacies and fresh grilled items—enough to satisfy hungry explorers after a busy morning. The tour also provides cottages for shade, life vests, and wharf fees, contributing to a comfortable experience. You’ll have time to enjoy your meal and relax without feeling rushed.

Tour Guides and Service

TravelExplr Travel and Tours provides a licensed English-speaking guide, which adds value through local knowledge and safety assurance. The guide, often praised for their friendly demeanor, helps create a smooth experience, ensuring travelers understand the schedule and marine safety rules. As one guest stated, “Very good guide, everything perfect,” which speaks to the quality of the service.

Cost and Value for Money

At $55 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusions: boat transfers, entrance fees, guide, picnic lunch, cottage rental, and safety gear. When you compare it to the cost of organizing similar activities independently, the convenience and safety net of an organized tour make it a worthwhile investment.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, and water—the essentials for a day on the water.
• Arrive prepared for weather variability, as the tour is weather-dependent. Clear days will enhance your experience, especially snorkeling.
• Book early to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons, and consider the optional private group bookings for a more tailored experience.
• Be mindful of the environmental fee of P150 per person, payable on-site.
• If you’re outside the 15-kilometer radius from the airport, expect an extra $80 charge for pickup.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

The combination of stunning views, marine encounters, and relaxed island stops makes this tour stand out. Reviewers consistently highlight the beautiful scenery—from shifting sandbars to colorful marine life—and the efficiency of the tour structure. The snorkeling opportunities at Luli and Starfish Islands are especially praised, with one guest saying, “You can snorkel among corals and marvel at the marine life—you won’t find a more accessible underwater experience in Palawan.”

Weather Considerations

Since this is an outdoor sea activity, favorable weather is key. Poor weather can result in cancellations, but the tour provider offers flexible rescheduling or alternative options. So, it’s wise to check the forecast before booking and be ready for some spontaneity.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers eager to explore Palawan’s island gems without the hassle of planning each detail. It suits those who want a mix of active snorkeling and laid-back beach time. If you’re someone who values guidance and convenience, this tour ticks those boxes.

It’s especially appealing for first-time visitors, thanks to its straightforward itinerary and included amenities. The affordable price point makes it accessible, and the short duration means you can easily fit this into a broader Palawan itinerary.

The Sum Up

This Honda Bay island-hopping tour from Puerto Princesa offers a well-balanced day of marine adventure and beach relaxation. The stunning scenery, combined with the opportunity to snorkel among vibrant corals and starfish, makes it a highlight for nature lovers. The included picnic lunch and amenities ensure comfort and convenience, giving travelers a hassle-free way to explore Palawan’s famed islands.

While weather can influence the experience, the overall value, ease, and natural beauty make this a worthwhile addition to your itinerary. It’s best suited for those who want to make the most of their time in Puerto Princesa without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

Whether you’re searching for family fun, a romantic getaway, or just some quality beach time, this tour offers a rewarding slice of Palawan’s coastal magic.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, van transfers from your accommodation within 15 kilometers of the airport are included, along with boat transfers to the islands.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, with each island stop lasting about two hours.

How many islands will I visit?
You’ll visit three main islands: Luli Island, Starfish Island, and Cowrie Island.

What activities can I do?
Snorkeling, swimming, beachcombing, and relaxing on the sand are the main activities.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a picnic lunch is provided, usually featuring local delicacies and grilled items.

Are guides available?
Yes, a licensed English-speaking guide accompanies the tour, ensuring safety and sharing local insights.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there additional fees?
Yes, an environmental fee of P150 per person is payable on-site, and extra charges of $80 apply if your accommodation is outside the 15 km radius.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Life vests are included, and snorkeling equipment is available for rent.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The shallow waters and calm beaches are family-friendly.

This Honda Bay island-hopping experience balances adventure, scenery, and comfort, making it a fantastic way to enjoy Palawan’s signature islands without the fuss. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure—and your sunscreen!

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