Puerto Princesa: Honda Bay Island Hopping with Buffet Lunch

An Authentic Day in Honda Bay: Island Hopping from Puerto Princesa

If you’re heading to Palawan, one of the must-do experiences is exploring Honda Bay’s stunning islands. For around $64, you can spend a day cruising through a handful of tropical islets, including Luli, Cowrie, and Starfish Islands. This tour, offered by Rio Travel and Tour, lasts about 6 to 9 hours, with hotel pickup in Puerto Princesa, making it a convenient way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines relaxing beach time with engaging marine activities. The highlight for many is snorkeling at various spots, where you can marvel at sea stars, sea snails, and vibrant coral reefs. Plus, the included buffet lunch on Cowrie Island provides a welcome break and a chance to enjoy freshly prepared local fare with a view. Another perk is the easy logistics—hotel pickups and drop-offs mean you can focus on soaking in the scenery rather than worrying about transportation.

However, there are some considerations. The itinerary can change based on weather or local government regulations, which might impact some stops, especially the popular Starfish Island. Also, the snorkeling areas can get crowded, as mentioned in reviews, so if snorkeling is your main goal, you might find the reef too small or busy during peak times.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a combination of adventure and relaxation without the stress of organizing a private trip. If you’re looking for a scenic, family-friendly outing that offers plenty of opportunities to see marine life and unwind on white sand beaches, this tour will suit you well—just keep in mind the weather can influence the day’s plans.

Key Points

• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make the day smooth and hassle-free
• Variety of Islands: Visit multiple islands with different features, including Luli’s tide-dependent sandbar and Cowrie’s beaches
• Marine Life: Snorkeling options offer a glimpse into Palawan’s underwater world, with chances to see starfish, sea snails, and colorful fish
• Flexibility: The itinerary can vary due to weather or regulations, affecting stops like Starfish Island
• Includes Lunch: A buffet meal on Cowrie Island provides a relaxing break with local dishes
• Cost-Value: At about $64, the tour offers a full day of activities and scenic views, but some reviews mention crowded snorkeling areas

The Detailed Breakdown: What to Expect on Your Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour

Starting early, around 7 a.m., the tour begins with hotel pickup in Puerto Princesa. The transport is an air-conditioned van, easing the transition from city streets to the waterfront. It’s a good idea to bring some cash for environmental fees and snorkel equipment rentals—these are paid directly, as per the tour info, and are not included in the base price.

First Stop: Puerto Princesa City Baywalk Park and Wharf

The journey kicks off at the baywalk, where boats are waiting to whisk you away. The boat ride itself is part of the adventure, offering glimpses of the harbor and the chance to get excited for the day ahead. The boat trip to Luli Island takes about 30 minutes, during which you’ll start to feel that tropical vibe.

Luli Island: The Disappearing Sandbar

Luli Island is famous for its sandbar that appears and disappears depending on the tide. As one review notes, “Luli is a play on the local dialect’s words ‘lulubog-lilitaw,’ which means ‘Now you see it; now you don’t.’” It’s a tiny, sandy oasis with clear, inviting waters perfect for swimming and lounging. The gentle waves and soft sand make it ideal for sunbathing or taking quick dips. Expect about an hour here, which is enough to snap photos, snorkel, or just relax on the sand.

Pambato Reef and Marine Encounters

After Luli, the tour often includes a snorkel at Pambato Reef. The reef is another highlight, offering a chance to see marine life up close. One reviewer pointed out that the snorkeling area can get busy with around 60 people in the water at once, which might make it less peaceful than some travelers hope. Still, the opportunity to see colorful fish and coral is a definite plus.

Cowrie Island: Lunch and Beach Bliss

The longest stop of the day is at Cowrie Island, where the white sandy beach beckons for relaxation. Named after the sea snail, Cowrie Island features cabana-style huts, a pavilion, and spa huts, making it a comfortable spot to unwind. The included buffet lunch is a luxury—local dishes served with a view of the sea, offering both sustenance and an authentic taste of Palawan.

As one guest shared, “You can top off your tan on the white-sand beach, or just feast on the delicious lunch” —and it’s true, the scenery makes the meal all the more enjoyable. The island’s calm waters and clear visibility make it ideal for swimming or just floating around.

Starfish Island: The Star of Marine Life

The last stop usually is Starfish Island, which earns its name from the many starfish that gather on the seabed. The guide might point out the orange, five-armed creatures, and you could be lucky enough to spot other marine species. It’s a fun chance to see marine creatures in their natural habitat, but be aware that access might be limited or affected by local regulations, especially if the islands are busy or weather conditions change.

Practical Tips and Insights

Transportation and Timing: Your day is structured to maximize island time, but weather can influence the plan. The tour starts early, around 7 a.m., so be prepared for an early rise if you’re staying in Puerto Princesa. The van ride from your hotel usually takes 20-45 minutes, depending on where you’re staying.

What to Bring: Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are must-haves. If you plan to snorkel, consider renting gear at the wharf, but keep in mind the reef can get crowded, so don’t expect perfect solitude. Also, bring cash for environmental fees and optional rentals, as these are paid directly.

Weather Considerations: The tour is weather-dependent—if storms or high winds are forecasted, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled. Travelers in reviews have shared that safety is prioritized, and refunds or alternative activities are offered when necessary.

Group Size and Atmosphere: With up to 900 travelers on this tour, it’s a bustling affair. Expect some crowded moments, especially during snorkel stops, but the overall experience balances this with the stunning scenery and friendly guides.

Authentic Marine Encounters and Scenery

We loved the way the tour blends maritime adventure with leisurely beach days. The snorkel spots give you a quick but memorable glimpse of Palawan’s underwater world, although some reviews note that the reef can get crowded. Still, seeing starfish and marine life in their natural environment remains a highlight.

The white sandy beaches on Cowrie Island feel almost untouched, providing a peaceful contrast to the lively boat rides and snorkeling. The included buffet lunch allows you to relax and enjoy local flavors, often said to be tasty and satisfying, set against the backdrop of the sea.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers seeking a well-rounded day of island exploration—from snorkeling and swimming to relaxing on pristine beaches. Families, couples, and groups who appreciate guided activities without the hassle of DIY planning will find this tour convenient and enjoyable. However, if you’re a snorkel enthusiast craving solitude, you might find the crowded reefs less ideal.

Those who want flexibility should also be aware that the islands visited can vary, and weather can influence the itinerary. For many, that’s part of the adventure—trusting the guides to show you the best available spots on the day.

The Sum Up

In the end, the Honda Bay Island Hopping tour from Puerto Princesa offers a solid introduction to Palawan’s natural beauty. The logistics are straightforward, making it a good choice for travelers who want to see several islands without organizing transport or boat trips themselves. The combination of scenic beaches, marine life, and a tasty buffet lunch creates a balanced and enjoyable day.

While crowds at snorkel spots and some itinerary changes can be drawbacks, the tour’s highlights—particularly the disappearing sandbar of Luli Island, the peaceful beaches of Cowrie, and the starfish of Starfish Island—make it worthwhile for most visitors. This experience suits those who want an active, scenic, and relaxed day out with a knowledgeable guide making it all run smoothly.

If you’re after a straightforward way to see some of Palawan’s best islands, this tour offers good value and memorable moments. Just pack your sense of adventure—and your sun protection!

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Puerto Princesa, transport by air-conditioned van, the processing of park permits and fees, environmental fees, taxes, and a buffet lunch.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 6 to 9 hours, starting early in the morning around 7 a.m., with time allocated for each island stop.

Do I need to bring snorkeling gear?
Snorkel equipment can be rented at the wharf before departure, but many find it convenient to bring their own. Keep in mind that snorkeling spots can be busy, so don’t expect complete tranquility.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a different tour. The guide prioritizes safety, so some stops may be modified or omitted if conditions are unsafe.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children can join, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Child rates apply when accompanied by at least one adult.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The itinerary can change based on weather or local regulations, especially concerning the starfish and marine areas. It’s best to go with the flow and trust your guide’s judgment.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, but if you want to snorkel, some comfort in the water helps. The beaches are safe for lounging, and you can enjoy the scenery from the shore if snorkeling isn’t your thing.

How crowded are the snorkel spots?
According to reviews, the reefs can get quite busy, with around 60 people in the water at once, which might affect the experience if you’re looking for quiet time in nature.

This Honda Bay tour from Puerto Princesa offers an accessible, scenic, and fun way to experience Palawan’s marine and island landscapes—perfect for most travelers wanting an authentic taste of the archipelago’s natural charm.