Puerto Princesa is a surprising destination, even for travelers who think they’ve seen it all in the Philippines. Beyond its famed beaches and underground river, the city offers a variety of shore excursions that showcase its local charm, wildlife, and stunning waters. Whether you prefer exploring urban sights with a knowledgeable guide or spending a day swimming in crystal-clear bays, Puerto Princesa has a lot to offer. We particularly enjoy the Puerto Princesa City sightseeing tour, which balances cultural highlights with a personal touch, and the private Honda Bay island tour, perfect for those wanting a more secluded experience. For travelers eager to snorkel and relax on multiple islands, the Island Hopping Tour offers a fantastic balance of adventure and comfort. All these options are designed to help you make the most of your limited time in port, ensuring you return to your ship happy and with plenty of stories to tell.
Quick Overview
Our list features a mix of city tours and island adventures, each offering unique experiences:
– The Puerto Princesa City sightseeing tour (link) combines cultural sights with wildlife and history.
– The Private Honda Bay tour (link) offers a more exclusive experience with snorkeling and island relaxation.
– The Island Hopping Tour (link) provides visits to three beautiful islands with plenty of swimming and sunbathing.
– The Honda Bay Cowrie, Starfish & Luli Island Hopping (link) is ideal for those who want a group tour with flexible island exploration.
1. Puerto Princesa City sightseeing tour shore excursion
At number 1, this 4-hour city tour hits the sweet spot for first-time visitors who want a quick but meaningful look at Puerto Princesa. For just $50 per person, you’ll visit a range of highlights without the hassle of self-driving or figuring out public transport. Your guide takes care of all logistics, whisking you from Baker’s Hill for some local pastries, to the Immaculate Conception Cathedral and the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center. This tour is perfect for those who want a broad overview in a small group, ensuring personal attention.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of cultural sights and wildlife encounters. You’ll learn about Puerto Princesa’s history, see local craft and food traditions, and even visit a tribal village. The reviews consistently praise the guide’s humor and knowledge, which makes sightseeing genuinely enjoyable. The tour is timed to give you a quick immersion without feeling rushed, leaving plenty of time to explore or relax before your ship departs.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Puerto Princesa’s city life and nature, ideal for travelers who want a taste of everything without sacrificing comfort or personal attention.
2. Private Puerto Princesa island tour: Shore excursion
Number 2 on our list is the Private Honda Bay tour, which provides a more tailored experience for about $100 per person. This 8-hour trip offers the flexibility to customize your day, whether you want to snorkel, sunbathe, or simply relax on the beach. The tour includes hotel pickup, so you won’t need to worry about transportation logistics. Once on board your boat, you’ll cruise along Honda Bay—famous for its calm, clear waters—and stop at some of the best islands for swimming and snorkeling.
What sets this tour apart is the option to upgrade to a private experience, removing the crowds and giving you a more intimate connection with the surroundings. The included picnic lunch on the beach is a delightful addition, providing a true picnic-style meal right on the sand. Reviewers highlight the operator’s accommodating nature and the quality of the snorkeling gear, making for a stress-free day.
This tour is excellent for travelers wanting a personalized, relaxed day in the water that balances adventure with comfort. It’s especially suited for families or couples seeking a more exclusive experience. The only downside might be the higher price, but the privacy and customizability tend to justify the cost.
Bottom Line: For a flexible, private day on the water with excellent snorkeling and a picnic lunch, this tour delivers a memorable Honda Bay experience.
3. Puerto Princesa Port Palawan Private Honda bay shore excursion
Coming in at number 3, this private Honda Bay tour is perfect for travelers who want an early start and a more exclusive experience. Priced at $150 per person and lasting around 5 hours, it includes all fees up front, saving you from unexpected charges at the wharf. This tour is a great choice if you prefer swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in your own pace.
The tour emphasizes early morning departure, so you beat the crowds and have the islands pretty much to yourself. Guests note the accommodating operator and the crystal-clear waters that make snorkeling a joy. It’s ideal for those who want a personalized experience without the full day commitment, and reviews highlight the “incredible” day spent in the water with minimal hassle.
While the tour is priced higher, the focus on no hidden fees, private arrangements, and flexible timing makes it a good value for travelers seeking exclusivity. It’s excellent for families, honeymooners, or anyone wanting a stress-free, private day surrounded by natural beauty.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a stress-free, private, and early start in Honda Bay, this tour offers a premium experience with all fees included.
4. Shore excursion: Puerto Princesa Island Hopping Tour
Number 4 on our list is the Island Hopping Tour—an 8-hour adventure that takes you to three different islands in Honda Bay. For $100 per person, this tour is about value for money and offers plenty of time for swimming and lounging. You’ll visit Luli, Cowrie, and Starfish islands, with opportunities to snorkel, soak up the sun, or take photos of the pristine beaches.
The tour includes hotel pickup and lunch, making it easy to relax and enjoy the day without worrying about logistics. Guests appreciate the timing, which allows enough downtime at each island for swimming or just wading in the water. Multiple reviews mention the helpful guides and the quality of the snorkeling gear, though some note that Starfish Island is best for relaxing rather than snorkeling.
This trip is perfect for those who want a comprehensive island-hopping experience with enough time to enjoy the sand and sea. It’s suitable for families, groups, or solo travelers who want to see several islands without the hassle of planning each stop.
Bottom Line: For a full day of island-hopping with included lunch and hotel pickup, this tour makes it easy to enjoy Honda Bay’s best spots.
5. Shore excursion Honda bay Cowrie, Starfish & Luli island hopping
Rounding out the list at number 5, this group tour at $60 per person covers the same islands—Cowrie, Starfish, and Luli—but with a more social atmosphere. Lasting about 8 hours, it’s ideal for travelers watching their budget but still wanting a full day on the water.
The tour includes round-trip transfers and lunch, plus plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and photo at each island. Travelers appreciate guide Jake’s helpfulness and friendliness, noting how much fun they had with him. While some reviews mention that Starfish Island is better for relaxing than snorkeling, most agree this tour offers a good balance of activity and downtime.
It’s especially suitable for those wanting an affordable, group experience with flexible time at each stop. The shared nature means fewer exclusivity perks but a lively, social vibe.
Bottom Line: For a budget-friendly, full-day island tour with a friendly guide, this group trip is a solid choice, especially if you enjoy meeting other travelers.
How to Choose Your Puerto Princesa Shore Excursion
Picking the right tour depends on your interests and travel style. If you want a comprehensive city overview with a local guide, go for the Puerto Princesa City sightseeing tour. For a private, relaxing day on the water, the Private Honda Bay tour offers exclusivity and customization. Eager to visit multiple islands with minimal planning? The Island Hopping Tour covers three islands with all logistics sorted. Lastly, if your budget is tighter but you still want a full day of swimming and snorkeling, the group Honda Bay island hopping provides a lively, affordable experience.
Consider your fitness level—some tours involve walking and swimming—your schedule—are you tight on time or want a leisurely day?—and interests—culture, wildlife, or beaches? Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and the best options.
Final thoughts
Puerto Princesa’s shore excursions offer a range of experiences—from vibrant city tours to tranquil island days. If you’re after a quick cultural fix, the City sightseeing tour provides a great overview. For those craving snorkeling in less crowded waters, the private Honda Bay tour is hard to beat. And if you want to see multiple islands without fuss, the Island Hopping Tour will not disappoint.
Whatever your style, these tours give you a fantastic taste of what Puerto Princesa has to offer. Remember to book well in advance, especially during busy travel times, to secure your preferred experience. With so many options, you’re sure to find a shore excursion that makes your visit unforgettable.