Honda Bay Island: Island Tour with Lunch & Transfer

Honda Bay Island: Island Tour with Lunch & Transfer offers a taste of Palawan’s famous island hopping, all for around $54 per person. This 8-hour adventure takes you to three beautiful islands—Starfish Island, Luli Island, and Cowrie Island—featuring snorkeling, relaxing beaches, and a picnic lunch. It’s a great way to see some of the best views in Puerto Princesa without the hassle of planning each detail yourself.

What we love most are the crystal-clear waters of Starfish Island, where you can snorkel among vibrant marine life, and the white sands of Luli Island, which looks like a postcard picture. The included lunch on Cowrie Island is also a highlight—simple, tasty, and right on the beach. One small caveat: the tour involves several boat rides, so if seasickness is a concern, you might want to prepare accordingly.

This experience suits travelers who want to combine relaxing beach time with snorkeling and sightseeing, all guided and managed for you. It’s ideal for those who prefer a structured day, with a knowledgeable guide to help make the most of each stop.

Key Points

• Inclusive experience with hotel transfers, boat rides, and island entrance fees
• Snorkeling opportunities at Starfish Island to see marine life up close
• Beach relaxation on Luli Island amid white sands and gentle waves
• Delicious picnic lunch on Cowrie Island enhances the day
• Family-friendly with fully accessible options and safe environment
• Small group tours limit participants for a more personal experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Honda Bay: What’s in Store

When we signed up for this tour, we appreciated how it promises a full day of island hopping, with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. You’ll start early—typically between 7:00 and 8:00 AM—which means you’ll be out before the heat peaks but still get a generous amount of time on each island. The actual tour, offered by KKJ Travel Services, is well-organized, with a knowledgeable guide providing insights along the way.

Transportation is straightforward—roundtrip transfers from your hotel in Puerto Princesa, with an additional charge if you’re staying at the Astoria Hotel. The boat ride between islands is smooth, and the entire process is designed to keep your day moving efficiently. You won’t spend hours waiting around, which is a plus if you prefer a busy, activity-packed day.

Morning: The Journey Begins

The tour kicks off with a pickup at your hotel, generally around 7:00 to 8:00 AM. Once on the bus, it’s about a 45-minute ride to Honda Bay’s harbor, giving you a chance to get excited about the day ahead. When you arrive, check-in at the terminal and board your boat—this is where the fun really starts.

Starfish Island is the first stop—about an hour to swim and snorkel in water so clear you’ll swear you’re in a giant aquarium. Marine life is abundant, and the starfish (obviously!) are a highlight. The guides typically point out interesting fish and coral, making it a worthwhile snorkeling spot for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike.

Mid-Morning: Relaxing on Cowrie Island

Next, you’ll visit Cowrie Island, which is perfect for a laid-back break. You can swim, sunbathe, or grab a snack at one of the local eateries. It’s also a popular spot for photos thanks to its picturesque setting. Some tours include a lunch here, featuring a simple picnic or buffet, which makes fueling up easy without leaving the island.

Afternoon: Luli Island’s Unique Tides

Luli Island comes last—famous for its changing tide, which makes it appear and disappear throughout the day. When the tide is low, you can walk around the entire tiny island, exploring its shallow waters and coral formations. When the tide’s high, it’s perfect for a quick swim or just relaxing on the sand.

The entire day incorporates strategic stops with enough time to enjoy each island’s vibe, but not so long that you feel rushed. As one traveler put it, “The guides kept everything moving smoothly, and we never felt like we were waiting around too long.”

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The Value of Guided Island Hopping

The guides make a real difference. They share interesting facts about the islands’ ecosystems and history, answer questions, and ensure safety throughout. You’ll appreciate their local knowledge—especially at snorkel spots where they can point out marine life you might miss on your own.

The cost of $54 includes most things—hotel transfers, boat rides, entrance fees, and lunch—making it a fair value for a full day of exploration. Extra costs like the environmental fee (P200) or rental gear are separate, but you’re free to bring your own snorkel or kayak if you prefer to explore independently.

Some reviews mention that the lunch could be simple but tasty—usually a buffet or packed lunch—and the overall experience is more about enjoying the scenery than gourmet dining.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a balanced mix of snorkeling, beach relaxation, and guided insights. It’s especially good if you prefer to keep things simple without the hassle of organizing each leg yourself.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For around $54, you get a well-organized, memorable day exploring some of Puerto Princesa’s most beautiful islands. The guided aspect means you learn about the environment and local culture without feeling lost, and the included lunch ensures you won’t go hungry. The small group size keeps things intimate, and the variety of stops keeps the experience fresh and engaging.

What we’d highlight is the combination of snorkeling at Starfish Island and relaxing on Luli Island. Both spots offer authentic, unspoiled beauty away from crowds, and the guides do a great job of making sure everyone feels safe and informed.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who love the outdoors, want a hassle-free adventure, and are happy with a full day of island hopping. If you’re a non-swimmer, the tour might be more challenging, but even those who prefer to stay dry can enjoy the scenic views and beach time.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, roundtrip transfer from your Puerto Princesa hotel is included, with an extra charge if staying at the Astoria Hotel.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, typically starting around 7:00-8:00 AM and ending around 5:00 PM.

Are meals included?
Yes, a picnic or buffet lunch is included on Cowrie Island, along with water and snacks.

What should I bring?
You’ll want to pack a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, snacks, and water.

Are there any extra fees?
Yes, an environmental fee of P200 per person applies, plus optional kayak or snorkel rentals.

Is this tour suitable for children and seniors?
Absolutely—it’s designed to be fully accessible and safe for children, seniors, and persons with disabilities.

Can non-swimmers participate?
While the tour is suitable for most, non-swimmers might find snorkeling challenging, but they can still enjoy the beaches and scenic views.

What’s the group size?
Limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.

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

Is there an option for a private tour?
Yes, you can upgrade to a private tour for a more exclusive experience, perfect for special occasions or just a quieter day.

In the end, this Honda Bay Island tour balances effortless planning with authentic, scenic adventures. It’s a smart choice for those wanting a taste of Palawan’s famous islands without overcomplicating the day. Whether you’re snorkeling, lounging on soft sands, or just enjoying the views, you’ll leave with plenty of memories—and maybe a few starfish tales to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: