Joiners Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour

Exploring the Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour in Puerto Princesa

If you’re seeking a memorable day in Puerto Princesa, the Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour is often recommended—and for good reason. This full-day excursion takes you to three of the most picturesque islands in the area: Cowrie Island, Luli Island, and Starfish Island. Priced at just $38 per person, it offers a blend of relaxing beach time, snorkeling opportunities, and a taste of local island life.

One of the best things about this tour is its seamless organization—your pickup from the hotel, boat transfers, and guided support are all smoothly handled, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenery. The highlight for many travelers is the chance to soak in the stunning views, especially at Cowrie Island with its soft white sands and vibrant turquoise waters.

However, a consideration is that the tour involves a fair bit of boat travel and walking on the islands, which might be something to keep in mind if you have mobility concerns. Also, there’s an additional fee for snorkeling equipment and the environmental fee, so plan accordingly.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a straightforward, well-organized day of island-hopping without the hassle of planning each step. It suits those who enjoy scenic beaches, light water activities, and a relaxed pace—ideal for families, couples, or solo explorers looking to experience Puerto Princesa’s coastal beauty.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Price: For $38, you get transportation, guided assistance, island entrances, and a picnic lunch.
• Stunning Beaches: Cowrie Island’s white sands and clear waters are a highlight.
• Water Activities: Snorkeling gear is available for rent, allowing for underwater exploration.
• Relaxed Schedule: The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, with plenty of time on each island.
• Small Group Feel: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Easy Logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off make it convenient for travelers staying in Puerto Princesa.

An In-Depth Look at the Honda Bay Island Hopping Experience

Starting the Day: Seamless Transfers and Early Mornings

The day begins early, with pickup from your Puerto Princesa hotel between 7:30 and 8:00 am. The transport is a comfortable air-conditioned van, which means you won’t be battling the heat or traffic as you make your way to the Honda Bay wharf. This aspect is especially appreciated, as it sets a relaxed tone for the day ahead.

The guide, who is licensed, meets you at your hotel lobby, providing useful tips and updates about the day. The small group size (up to 10) ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the support from the guide is helpful for first-time visitors or those unfamiliar with the area.

The Boat Ride and First Stop: Cowrie Island

Once you arrive at Honda Bay wharf, the boat ride begins. The boats are stable, and the trip across the bay offers beautiful views of the coastline and lush islands. The first stop is Cowrie Island, often described as the flagship of the tour.

This island’s appeal lies in its pristine white beach and crystalline waters. According to reviews, it’s a versatile spot: you can relax on the sand, swim in the calm waters, or enjoy facilities like volleyball, massages, and small bars. One reviewer mentioned Cowrie Island as a “Basecamp,” where you can indulge in leisure activities while surrounded by stunning scenery.

The island’s infrastructure caters to visitors, but it doesn’t feel overly commercialized, maintaining an authentic island vibe. If you’re after some quick relaxation or a chance to take beautiful photos, Cowrie Island is the perfect intro.

Luli Island: The Giant Sandbox and Dive Platform

Next, the tour takes you to Luli Island. This tiny island is famous for its expansive sandbar, which is exposed during low tide, creating a natural playground. Travelers find it deeply relaxing to walk across the soft sands and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Luli Island also features a dive platform, making it an excellent spot for snorkelers or those wanting to try a bit of light diving activity. While some reviews mention snorkeling equipment costs an additional 200 pesos ($4), it’s a worthwhile expense for those eager to see the underwater world.

Reviewer William_S shared that Luli Island is like a “giant sandbags,” emphasizing its tranquility, and noted the dive platform as a fun addition. The island’s calm waters and laid-back vibe mean you’ll likely spend a good chunk of your time just soaking in the serenity or capturing Instagram-worthy shots.

Starfish Island: Marine Life and Snorkeling Wonders

The last island stop is Starfish Island, aptly named for the abundance of starfish in its shallow waters. This is a favorite for snorkelers, as the waters here are teeming with colorful fish and marine life.

The reviewer noted that “you will see the nist fishes,” and appreciated the opportunity to use scuba gear in this area. Snorkeling here is generally considered a highlight, with easy access from the shore and lots of marine creatures to observe.

This island is more than just a stop for pictures; it offers a genuine chance to see marine biodiversity up close, which makes it stand out from more crowded or commercialized options. Keep in mind, there’s an additional fee for snorkeling equipment, so plan ahead if underwater exploration interests you.

Lunch and Relaxation

A key highlight of this tour is the included picnic lunch, which is usually served on one of the islands. This meal offers a welcome break, giving you energy for the rest of the day. While the specific menu isn’t detailed, reviews suggest it’s straightforward and satisfying, perfect for a day spent in the sun.

Return and Drop-off

The tour wraps up around 4:00 pm, with a smooth boat ride back to the wharf and transfer to your hotel. This timing allows you to enjoy the day without feeling rushed and still have the evening free to explore Puerto Princesa or relax.

Practical Details and Tips for the Tour

Price vs. Value: At $38, this tour offers a lot—transportation, guides, island entries, and lunch. Additional costs like snorkeling gear (200 pesos) and the environmental fee (150 pesos) are extra, but overall, it’s a good value considering the included amenities and the chance to visit three distinct islands.

Transport and Group Size: The small group size makes for a more personalized experience, with dedicated guide support. The pickup is from your hotel, which simplifies logistics, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local transportation.

Timing: With a start time of 7:00 am and a return by 4:00 pm, the day is well-structured. This schedule allows for plenty of beach time without feeling overly rushed, perfect for relaxing travelers.

Physical Fitness: The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness. You’ll be walking on sand, swimming, and potentially snorkeling, so keep that in mind if you prefer less active outings.

Weather Dependency: The experience relies on good weather. Poor weather could lead to cancellations, but the provider offers full refunds or the option to reschedule.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

The sole review available is glowing, with a perfect rating of 5 out of 5. William_S called it a “very worthwhile trip,” emphasizing the variety of experiences—from the lively vibe at Cowrie Island to the peaceful sands of Luli Island, and the marine life at Starfish Island. His mention of “more scuba gear” hints at additional opportunities for underwater exploration, which adds extra value.

He also appreciated that Cowrie Island functions as a “Basecamp” with options for volleyball, massages, bars, and swimming—showing that the tour isn’t just about the sightseeing but also about enjoying leisure activities in a scenic setting.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This island-hopping experience is ideal for travelers who prefer a straightforward, well-organized day of leisure and light adventure. It’s perfect if you want to see multiple islands without the hassle of planning each step.

Families with kids, couples, or solo travelers will find the pace comfortable and the scenery captivating. If you’re a water lover or enjoy relaxing on beaches with good facilities, this tour hits the sweet spot.

The Sum Up: A Value-Packed Day of Island Beauty

The Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour in Puerto Princesa offers a well-rounded mix of scenic beaches, marine life, and relaxing island atmospheres—all at a reasonable price point. The included transfers, guided support, and picnic lunch make it a convenient option for travelers seeking a hassle-free, authentic experience.

For those who love stunning views, enjoy snorkeling or beach lounging, and want a manageable, small-group adventure, this tour delivers on all fronts. The combination of picturesque islands and stress-free logistics makes it a top choice for anyone eager to explore Puerto Princesa’s nearby marine treasures.

Though it’s a full day, the experience is structured to balance activity with relaxation—perfect for making the most of your time in this beautiful part of the Philippines.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You get hotel pickup, air-conditioned van transfer to the wharf, boat transfers, a licensed guide, island entrance fees, and a picnic lunch.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, from early morning pickup to return by around 4:00 pm.

Are snorkeling gear and equipment included?
No, snorkeling equipment costs 200 pesos per person if you wish to rent it. The tour includes access to snorkeling sites, but gear is an add-on.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as it involves walking on sand and some water activities. Mobility concerns should be considered.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people typically join this tour?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 15 days in advance, but it’s wise to confirm early to secure your preferred date.

This Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour is a straightforward, scenic, and well-organized way to see some of Puerto Princesa’s most iconic islands. Whether you’re after relaxation or underwater discovery, it offers a balanced taste of what this beautiful region has to offer.