Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour from Puerto Princesa - Guide

Honda Bay: Puerto Princesa's island playground

Just north of Puerto Princesa, Honda Bay is a scatter of small islands and sandbars in warm, shallow, impossibly clear water - the city's favourite day trip and an easy, joyful introduction to Palawan's island life. This hopping tour cruises between the bay's best islands for snorkelling, swimming and lounging on the sand, with everything organised so you just step aboard and enjoy.

The islands

Cowrie, Luli and Starfish

A typical route visits islands like Cowrie - with its beach bars and palms - Luli (short for "lulubog-lilitaw", the island that sinks and rises with the tide) and Starfish Island, named for the starfish dotting its shallows. Each has soft sand, calm water and easy snorkelling, and there is time to swim, relax and wander between them.

Snorkelling and lunch

The bay's reefs are shallow and full of colourful fish, perfect for easy snorkelling straight off the beach. A fresh lunch is usually included, often served island-style between swims, so you can make a full, relaxed day of it.

Good to know

Honda Bay suits everyone, including families and non-swimmers, thanks to calm, shallow water and life vests. Bring swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, a towel and a waterproof pouch, plus small cash for island entrance fees and snacks. The dry season from late November to May brings the calmest seas. It is an easy add-on to any Puerto Princesa stay - book ahead in peak season when boats fill early.

Good to know before you book

• Duration: typically a full day (around 8 to 10 hours including transfers), though half-day and multi-day options exist - check the listing.
• Best for: couples, families and first-time visitors.
• What is included: the boat, life vests, snorkelling gear, a guide and usually lunch; island entrance and environmental fees may be paid locally.
• Pickup: most tours offer hotel or central pickup; confirm your point and time when booking.
• Book through: the GetYourGuide button on this page, which shows live availability and pricing.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour from Puerto Princesa take?

Most departures run as a full day - roughly 8 to 10 hours including pickup, travel and the activities themselves - so plan to set aside the whole day. Some operators offer shorter or private versions; the exact timing for your date is shown when you book through the GetYourGuide button on this page.

What is included in the Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour from Puerto Princesa?

Typically the price covers the boat, life vests, snorkelling gear, a guide and usually lunch; island entrance and environmental fees may be paid locally. Inclusions vary by operator, so always read the specific listing - it spells out exactly what is provided and what you pay for separately, such as entrance or environmental fees.

What should I bring?

Pack swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, a towel, water shoes for rocky landings and a waterproof pouch for your phone. It is also worth carrying some cash for local fees, drinks and tips, plus any personal medication, since card facilities can be limited outside the cities.

Is the Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour from Puerto Princesa suitable for beginners or families?

It is suitable for almost everyone, including families and non-swimmers, thanks to life vests and calm, sheltered water at most stops. There is plenty of time to simply relax on the sand. If you have specific concerns about age, fitness or swimming ability, message the operator before booking - they can advise on the best option for your group.

When is the best time to do this tour?

The best conditions are usually the dry season from late November to May, when seas are calmest and skies clearest. That said, the Philippines is a year-round destination, and many of these experiences run in any season - just expect the occasional shower and check the forecast for the day.

How do I get to Puerto Princesa?

To reach Puerto Princesa, fly into Puerto Princesa, El Nido or Coron (Busuanga) airport, then transfer by road or boat. Many tours include transfers from nearby towns or hotels, so confirm your pickup arrangement when you book so the day runs smoothly from the start.

Do I need to book the Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour from Puerto Princesa in advance?

Yes - booking ahead is strongly recommended, especially in the dry-season peak and on weekends, when popular tours and the best operators sell out. Reserving online also locks in your spot and lets you compare timings and inclusions easily.

How much does the Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour from Puerto Princesa cost?

Prices vary with the season, group size and exactly what is included, so we do not list a fixed figure here. Tap the GetYourGuide button on this page to see the current, accurate price and availability for your chosen date.

Can I do the Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour from Puerto Princesa as a private or customised tour?

Many operators offer a private version of this experience for couples, families or small groups who want a flexible pace and a guide to themselves, and some can tailor the route or add stops. If a private or custom option matters to you, check the listing or message the operator before booking, as availability and prices differ from the standard shared tour.

What else is worth doing around Puerto Princesa?

Puerto Princesa rewards travellers who linger. Beyond the Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour from Puerto Princesa, set aside time for the local beaches, markets, food and viewpoints, and ask your guide or host for their personal favourites - the small, lesser-known spots rarely make the guidebooks. Pairing this experience with a day at a slower pace, plus one of the other tours and activities we feature in the area, turns a single outing into a genuinely memorable trip and gives you the full flavour of this part of the Philippines.

Ready to explore Puerto Princesa?

From planning to the moment you arrive, the Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour from Puerto Princesa is one of the most rewarding ways to experience this corner of the Philippines - and booking it is simple. Use the GetYourGuide button on this page to check live availability, compare timings and secure your spot, then turn up and let the local guides handle the rest while you focus on the views, the water and the memories.