So you are off to visit the stunning islands of Honda Bay in Palawan, Philippines!
While dreaming of turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, you wonder how to get to Honda Bay?
Let me guide you to this tropical paradise. Get ready for an unforgettable journey filled with sun, sea, and pure island bliss. It’s time to start planning your perfect getaway to Palawan!
Here’s an overview:
How to Get to Honda Bay, Palawan
Located on the eastern shore of the Islands of Palawan, you can easily enjoy a day of island hopping. Explore one of nature’s paradises in Palawan, also known as “The Last Frontier.”
To experience island hopping in Honda Bay, you have a few options: take public transportation, rent a van, or book a tour package.
Chances are you’ll arrive in Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan and its main gateway.
By Plane
The quickest way to get to Puerto Princesa is by taking a flight. You can hop on a plane from Manila, the capital of the Philippines, to Puerto Princesa City in Palawan. There are daily commercial flights available with airlines like Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Air Asia, and Air Philippines. The flight is only two hours long and quite affordable.
It’s a good idea to book your flight at least one or two months in advance, as prices increase quickly. Fares can start as low as $40 (PHP 2,000) but may go up to $160 (PHP 8,000) as your travel dates approach.
In our experience, we recommend Cebu Pacific over Philippine Airlines as they often offer cheaper fares.
By Ferry – Island Hopping
The most budget-friendly option to get to Puerto Princesa is to take the ferry with 2GO Travel. It takes a bit over 30 hours to reach Puerto Princesa, and there are only three departures every three days.
When weighing the cost of a ferry ticket against an early flight ticket with Cebu Pacific, we believe that spending a little extra for the flight is totally worth it…unless you’re a fan of cruises and have some extra time to spare.
Just so you know, there aren’t any ferry connections between Cebu and Puerto Princesa, so flying is your only option.
Once you’re there in Puerto Princesa City, make sure to take a boat trip to the untouched paradise and explore Cowrie Island, Starfish Island, and Luli Island while island hopping.
Things To Do in Honda Bay
Get ready for a chill time at Honda Bay Islands! Dive in and check out the colorful corals, fish, and marine life. It’s a blast exploring the underwater world there.
Honda Bay is perfect for snorkeling, whether you’re a newbie or a pro. Don’t miss out on the chance to soak in the stunning underwater sights for an unforgettable experience.
Plan and Book a Tour
You can also go snorkeling on the islands and at Pambato Reef. A day tour to three islands like Cowrie Island, Starfish Island, and Luli Island is a great option.
Some islands in Honda Bay are private, while others are protected areas managed by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and are not open to the public.
Related read: Diving Spots in the Philippines
Island Snorkeling Tour
No time to plan for the day tour? No worries! Save time and money by booking a tour package that includes boat and land transportation, guided tours, entrance fees to the islands, lunch, and a licensed tour guide.
There are no hidden fees to worry about at the wharf – everything is included in the price, even the fees that other tour operators and agencies usually collect there.
You can choose a private tour for a more personalized experience, or opt for a shared tour if you’re watching your budget.
Start your day with a refreshing swim and snorkeling session, followed by a delicious lunch on one of the beautiful islands. Unwind and soak up the sun on an island in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines.
Picture yourself swimming and playing in the crystal-clear waters, observing the sea life in their natural habitat.
Simply book your tour package with World Holiday Travel and Tours on their website, and they’ll pick you up from your hotel, cruise port, or airport. Their tour packages let you relax, save, and enjoy the trip.
Just sit back, relax, and savor the experience.
Price: 11,695 private tour
Duration: 5 hours
What do you get?
- Food and drinks
- Delicious buffet lunch
- Expert guide
- Convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off within the city
- Additional fee for hotels outside the city
- Boat rides included
Bring swimwear and clothes for changing.
Plan the Trip Yourself
Planning your own island-hopping adventure can be a unique experience. Expect to haggle with the boat operator, check in at the wharf and cover entrance fees for each island, along with a 160-peso environmental charge.
Usually, tourists visit three islands, and each island costs between 50 and 100, and the private island costs even more, 1250. So that all adds up.
Typically, larger boats, accommodating up to 20 passengers, run about 1500 pesos. If you prefer a smaller vessel, expect to pay around 1300 pesos.
A great tip is to team up with fellow travelers to share the expenses. By splitting the cost among five people, for example, each person would only need to chip in around 500 pesos. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a private tour without breaking the bank!
The Islands of Palawan
- Pandan Island is a gem! With its stunning powdery white sand beach, cozy cottages for ultimate relaxation, and various activities like kayaking and snorkeling, this spot is a must-visit. The entrance fee is only PHP 150 (US $3), and you can rent cottages for PHP 500 (US $10).
- Starfish Island lives up to its name, with abundant starfish to discover while snorkeling or strolling along the shore.
- Snake Island, true to its name, is perfect for a leisurely picnic with its charming huts along the shoreline.
- Pambato Reef offers a fantastic snorkeling experience right from a platform amidst the vibrant reefs.
- Luli Island is a hidden treasure, a sandbar that emerges during low tide for a unique experience.
- Cowrie Island is a chill spot with a central bar, ideal for sipping cocktails and watching the sunset in paradise.
- Dos Palmas Island is the crown jewel of Honda Bay, but keep in mind it’s privately owned, so you’ll need to book a full-day tour to bask in its beauty.
Book an Overnight Stay at Honda Bay
You may also spend a day and night on an island, like in the Dos Palmas Island Resort & Spa.
This resort is a gem thanks to it’s super friendly and welcoming staff who make you feel right at home.
The island’s one restaurant may not serve fancy cuisine, but the food is delicious, hearty, and budget-friendly. Plus, there are live performances every evening to keep you entertained.
You’ll never be bored here with all the free activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and tennis. And don’t forget to treat yourself at the spa. The beauty salon is awesome and so nice for some pampering!
The bungalows, nestled in a lush garden, offer spacious rooms with sea views from the terrace. Perfect for families, each bungalow houses four rooms and features a mix of beds for a comfortable stay.
When is the Best Time to go to Honda Bay?
It’s ideal to visit during the dry season, from November to April, and avoid peak times and holidays to steer clear of the crowds, as it’s a hot spot for both locals and tourists.
