Pambato Reef
Discover vibrant marine life at Pambato Reef, a beginner-friendly snorkeling haven in Puerto Princesa Bay, famous for its turtle platform.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, clearer water
Pambato Reef
Best Time
Fewer crowds, clearer water
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover vibrant marine life at Pambato Reef, a beginner-friendly snorkeling haven in Puerto Princesa Bay, famous for its turtle platform.
"A must-stop for swimming with the fishes and feeding them in their natural habitat!"
Bring Bread for Fish!
Feed the fish and watch them swarm! A must-do for an interactive experience. :fish:
Go Early to Beat Crowds
Arrive before 7 AM to enjoy the reef with fewer people. :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Giant Turtle Platform
Floating platform
Iconic turtle-shaped platform, your gateway to vibrant underwater wonders. A unique spot for photos!
Beginner-Friendly Snorkeling
Roped-off reef area
Safe, calm, and shallow waters teeming with colorful fish and corals. Perfect for first-time snorkelers!
Fish Feeding Frenzy
Reef area
Bring bread to attract schools of tropical fish. An interactive and delightful experience for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Pambato Reef
Honda Bay Island Hopping Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Bread for Fish!
Feed the fish and watch them swarm! A must-do for an interactive experience. :fish:
Go Early to Beat Crowds
Arrive before 7 AM to enjoy the reef with fewer people. :clock1:
Check Water Clarity
Water can be murky sometimes, especially after typhoons. Manage expectations. :droplet:
Entrance Fee Required
A small fee of 50 pesos grants access to this snorkeling spot. :moneybag:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Bread for Fish!
Feed the fish and watch them swarm! A must-do for an interactive experience. :fish:
Go Early to Beat Crowds
Arrive before 7 AM to enjoy the reef with fewer people. :clock1:
Check Water Clarity
Water can be murky sometimes, especially after typhoons. Manage expectations. :droplet:
Entrance Fee Required
A small fee of 50 pesos grants access to this snorkeling spot. :moneybag:
Family-Friendly Fun
Safe, shallow waters and life vests make it ideal for kids and beginners. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Pambato Reef is a highly accessible and beginner-friendly snorkeling spot in Puerto Princesa, praised for its unique turtle platform and abundant fish, making it ideal for families and first-timers. While some visitors note coral damage and potential crowds, it remains a fun and educational stop on Honda Bay island-hopping tours, offering a good glimpse of marine life without venturing far from the city.
"Pambato Reef is a great snorkeling destination in Puerto Princesa Bay, especially for first-timers or those who want a safe and guided marine experience without venturing too far from the city. It’s a popular stop included in Honda Bay island-hopping tours, and for good reason.
The reef is marked by a large floating platform shaped like a giant turtle, which serves as both a staging area and a resting spot for visitors. From here, you can jump straight into the clear waters where you’ll find colorful corals, clams, and a variety of tropical fish. The area is roped off for safety, and life vests are usually required, making it very family-friendly and beginner-friendly.
What makes Pambato Reef stand out is its accessibility. Unlike more advanced dive spots, you don’t need to be an experienced snorkeler to enjoy it. The water is generally calm and shallow, and the guides are attentive and helpful.
However, it’s not without some drawbacks:
• Some sections of the reef show signs of damage, likely due to heavy tourist activity over the years.
• The area can get crowded depending on the season and tour groups.
• You might not see as much marine life compared to deeper or more remote reefs in Palawan.
Still, it’s a fun and educational stop, especially for those who want to get a close-up look at Palawan’s underwater life without doing a full dive or long boat ride.
Pros:
• Easy access and beginner-friendly snorkeling
• Clear, calm waters with colorful marine life
• Unique floating turtle-shaped platform
• Guides ensure safety and assist first-timers
Cons:
• Some coral damage due to tourism
• Can be crowded during peak season
• Marine life diversity is moderate compared to remote dive sites
Overall:
Pambato Reef is a solid snorkeling spot if you’re in Puerto Princesa and want a quick, safe, and enjoyable glimpse into Palawan’s underwater world. It’s ideal for families, kids, and anyone new to snorkeling — just don’t expect a world-class dive experience."
Dennis L
"If you're fond of swimming with the fishes and feeding them, then this is a MUST stop on your island hopping at Honda Bay in Puerto Princesa. The sea water may not be that clear that day but I so much enjoyed the place. And there's a lot of corals too!"
Jhune Mallari
"The water here is murky and the corals were all damaged from the previous typhoon. I hope the government can rehabilitate this area. What a let down for snorkeling. There’s a lot of fishes though. This is the best snorkeling are among the 3 islands. The hottest as well since there’s only few shade and intended for small group of people, it can get crowded if there’s flock of people."
Abby 26
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pambato Reef is accessible via Honda Bay island-hopping tours from Puerto Princesa City. Most tours depart from Sta. Lourdes Wharf. You can arrange tours through your accommodation or local tour operators. :boat:
Yes, Pambato Reef is a common stop on Honda Bay island-hopping tours. It's often included alongside other popular spots like Luli Island and Starfish Island. :map:
Booking in advance through your hotel or a reputable local agency is recommended, especially during peak season. This ensures you get a spot and can often get better rates. :ticket:
The boat ride from Sta. Lourdes Wharf to Pambato Reef typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on sea conditions and the specific tour itinerary. :stopwatch:
No, Pambato Reef is only accessible by boat as part of an island-hopping tour in Honda Bay. Private boat rentals are also an option. :ferry:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a modest entrance fee of 50 pesos per person to snorkel at Pambato Reef. This fee helps maintain the area. :peso:
You don't typically buy tickets for Pambato Reef separately. The entrance fee is usually collected as part of your Honda Bay island-hopping tour package or upon arrival at the reef. :clipboard:
Pambato Reef is generally accessible during daylight hours as part of island-hopping tours. Tours usually start in the morning and conclude in the afternoon. :sunwithface:
No, Pambato Reef is very family-friendly. Children are welcome, and life vests are provided, making it safe for all ages to snorkel. :baby_chick:
While it's possible to hire a private boat, Pambato Reef is most commonly visited as part of a guided Honda Bay island-hopping tour. This is the most convenient way to access it. :sailing_boat:
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
The main activity is snorkeling! You can see colorful corals, various fish species, and enjoy the unique turtle-shaped platform. Feeding the fish is also a popular activity. :snorkel:
It's a great spot for beginner snorkelers due to its calm, shallow waters. While some areas show coral damage, there's still a good variety of fish to see. :tropical_fish:
You can expect to see various tropical fish, including damselfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish. There are also corals and clams. :shell:
It can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and when multiple tour boats arrive. Visiting early or late can help avoid the biggest crowds. :bustsinsilhouette:
The primary facility is the large floating turtle-shaped platform, which serves as a resting area and a jumping-off point for snorkeling. Restrooms might be available on tour boats. :toilet:
📸 📸 Photography
The giant turtle platform is a unique photo spot. Snorkeling shots of the colorful fish and corals are also popular. Capture the vibrant underwater world! :camera:
Yes, with an underwater camera or a waterproof phone case, you can capture amazing shots of the marine life and corals. :underwater:
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, which is ideal for photography. The golden hour can create beautiful shots. :sunrise:
Generally, no specific restrictions apply to personal photography. However, always be respectful of other visitors and marine life. :respect:
A waterproof action camera (like a GoPro) or a smartphone with a waterproof case is perfect for capturing the underwater scenes. :iphone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Most Honda Bay island-hopping tours are family-friendly, and Pambato Reef is a highlight. The short boat rides between stops are manageable for children, and the reef itself offers enough visual stimulation with its colorful fish to keep them engaged. Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and waterproof cameras to capture all the smiles and splashes!
🐠 Beginner Snorkelers
The abundance of fish makes it exciting even for beginners, as you're almost guaranteed to see plenty of marine life swimming around you. The unique turtle platform provides an easy entry and exit point, minimizing any anxiety about getting in and out of the water. It's a low-pressure environment where you can get acquainted with snorkeling at your own pace.
💰 Budget Travelers
Many tours include snorkeling gear, saving you rental costs. Bringing your own snacks and water can further reduce expenses. By choosing a group tour rather than a private charter, you can significantly cut down on costs while still enjoying the beauty of Pambato Reef and other nearby islands.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Pambato Reef's Marine Ecosystem
Visitors often remark on the abundance of fish, especially when food is provided. This interactive feeding experience is a highlight for many, creating memorable moments. The presence of a large, turtle-shaped floating platform serves as a central hub for visitors, offering a convenient entry point into the water and a place to rest. The waters are generally calm and shallow, providing a safe environment for families and less experienced swimmers.
While Pambato Reef offers a delightful glimpse into Palawan's marine life, it's important to manage expectations. Compared to more remote or deeper dive sites, the diversity and pristine condition of the corals might be less. However, for a convenient and enjoyable snorkeling experience close to Puerto Princesa City, Pambato Reef is an excellent choice, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and accessible adventure.
Navigating Honda Bay Island Hopping
When planning your trip, consider the time of day. Early mornings are often favored by travelers for potentially clearer waters and fewer crowds, allowing for a more serene experience. The journey to Pambato Reef itself is usually a short boat ride, making it an efficient stop on a multi-island itinerary. Remember to bring cash for the entrance fees, which are typically modest, and for any snacks or souvenirs you might wish to purchase.
Most tour packages include snorkeling gear, but it's always a good idea to confirm this beforehand. The guides are usually knowledgeable and can assist first-time snorkelers, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. The unique turtle platform at Pambato Reef provides a fun backdrop for photos and a convenient staging area for your underwater exploration.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit