Sta. Lourdes Wharf (Honda Bay) - Image 1
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Sta. Lourdes Wharf Honda Bay

4.2
·266 reviews·Puerto Princesa City, Philippines

Discover the enchanting islands of Honda Bay, offering a convenient and scenic escape with unique sandbars and snorkeling spots.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, calmer waters

CrowdLow
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Sta. Lourdes Wharf (Honda Bay) - Image 1

Sta. Lourdes Wharf Honda Bay

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, calmer waters

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the enchanting islands of Honda Bay, offering a convenient and scenic escape with unique sandbars and snorkeling spots.

4.2
(266 reviews)

"A great way to enjoy Palawan's beauty without going too far from the city."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Before 8 AM

Beat the crowds and secure your boat for a better island-hopping experience.

🤿 Bring Your Own Gear

Pack snorkel and aqua shoes to save on rental costs.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Luli Island's Disappearing Act

Luli Island's Disappearing Act

Honda Bay

Witness a sandbar emerge and vanish with the tides – a truly unique and photogenic natural wonder.

Pambato Reef Snorkeling

Pambato Reef Snorkeling

Honda Bay

Get up close with tropical fish and corals from a floating platform, perfect for beginners.

Cowrie Island Relaxation

Cowrie Island Relaxation

Honda Bay

The most developed island, offering a perfect spot to swim, dine, and unwind after a day of exploring.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds: Early Bird Gets the Island

Arrive at Sta. Lourdes Wharf before 8 AM to secure your boat and beat the midday rush. This ensures a more relaxed island-hopping experience and better chances of seeing marine life before it's disturbed by many visitors. TikTok

Pack Smart for Island Hopping

Bring your own snorkel gear and aqua shoes if possible, as rentals can add up. Consider a waterproof bag for your essentials and cash for island fees and food. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, calmer waters
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend tourist surges
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Om my gawd ONG FAM at SM Puerto Princesa 😭🤩😍😍😍😍 #OngFam #GeoOng #Masid #fyp #viral #trending #Palawan #PuertoPrincesa #Palaweña #Vlogger @titajc_08
@liagonzales16
720.8K likes • 8.8M views

🎯 Arrive Before 8 AM

Beat the crowds and secure your boat for a better island-hopping experience. TikTok

🤿 Bring Your Own Gear

Pack snorkel and aqua shoes to save on rental costs. Reddit

It’s a cloudy day and it’s raining throughout the rest of the Philippines. But here in Puerto we are safe. To everyone who can actually afford to relocate. Consider Puerto Princesa. The perfect place to live. @MAMA @Leon Hagedorn @L☆RS #annual #school #event #zumba #family
@luapadillahagedorn
59.2K likes • 487.9K views
Reason why you better choose 5 a.m. flight from Manila to Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. #sunrise #manila #puertoprincesa #palawan #travel #fyp #everyone #highlights
@marlon_gx
41.8K likes • 476.6K views

💰 Carry Cash

For island entrance fees, food, and souvenirs. Reddit

💧 Waterproof Your Valuables

Protect your phone and camera from water splashes. :iphone:

reddit.com

Puerto Princesa Honda Bay DIY Island Hopping

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Before 8 AM

Beat the crowds and secure your boat for a better island-hopping experience. TikTok

🤿 Bring Your Own Gear

Pack snorkel and aqua shoes to save on rental costs. Reddit

💰 Carry Cash

For island entrance fees, food, and souvenirs. Reddit

💧 Waterproof Your Valuables

Protect your phone and camera from water splashes. :iphone:

☀️ Pack Sun Protection

Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential for a sunny day. :sunny:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(266 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Honda Bay offers a convenient and enjoyable island-hopping experience, perfect for a day trip from Puerto Princesa. Visitors praise its accessibility and the unique charm of islands like Luli and Cowrie. While not the most pristine, it's a great introduction to Palawan's beauty, especially for families and first-time visitors, though it can get crowded and marine life isn't as vibrant as in more remote areas.

"We visited 3 islands in the Honda Bay Island hopping tour. They are all beautiful. This is one of the attractions one can do in Puerto Princesa. If you have your own snorkel and aqua shoes ( we didn't need them) , bring them with you. The tour operators don't tell you in advance that you might need them. They point you to rental shops prior to boarding the tour boat."

meltem kogelbauer

"Honda Bay is one of the most popular destinations in Puerto Princesa — a great option for travelers who want a convenient island-hopping experience without venturing too far from the city. Just about 30–40 minutes from the city proper, it’s perfect for a day trip packed with snorkeling, swimming, and beach relaxation.

A typical Honda Bay tour includes stops at Pambato Reef, Luli Island, and Cowrie Island — each offering something different.
• Pambato Reef is a designated snorkeling area with a floating turtle-shaped platform. It’s a great place for beginners to get a safe, close-up view of tropical fish and coral (though some parts of the reef show wear from tourism).
• Luli Island is a sandbar that appears and disappears with the tide, making it a unique and photogenic stop.
• Cowrie Island is the most developed, with facilities for eating, lounging, and swimming — a nice place to end the tour and relax.

Tour packages are generally affordable and include boat transfers, entrance fees, and sometimes a simple lunch. Guides are friendly and make sure everyone’s safe and enjoying the trip.

Some downsides to be aware of:
• The area can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season.
• Corals and marine life at Pambato Reef are decent but not as vibrant as in more remote parts of Palawan.
• Food options on the islands are limited — good enough for a casual lunch but not a highlight.

Pros:
• Convenient and beginner-friendly island-hopping
• Calm beaches, good for swimming and relaxing
• Great introduction to snorkeling at Pambato Reef
• Perfect for families, groups, and short visits

Cons:
• Can be crowded during peak hours
• Some reef areas need environmental care
• Basic facilities and food options

Overall:
Honda Bay is a great way to enjoy the beauty of Palawan without going too far from the city. It’s not the most pristine experience, but for the time, price, and convenience, it offers a relaxing and fun tropical getaway — especially for first-time visitors."

Dennis L

"I visited 3 islands in the Honda Bay Island hopping tour. They are all beautiful. This is one of the attractions one can do in Puerto Princesa. They have veya nice sandy beach and can swim easly.
If you have your own snorkel and aqua shoes, you should bring with you or you can rental them at the shop"

Merve Oecal

What People Like

Convenient island hopping
Beautiful sandbars
Family-friendly waters

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Basic food options
Reef needs care

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sta. Lourdes Wharf is about a 30-40 minute drive from Puerto Princesa City proper. You can take a tricycle, a van for hire, or a taxi. Many accommodations can also arrange transport for you. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at the wharf, though it might be limited during peak hours. It's advisable to arrive early if you're driving. Reddit

Yes, you can arrange your island hopping tours directly at Sta. Lourdes Wharf. There are many boat operators available. Reddit

From Puerto Princesa Airport, you can take a tricycle or taxi to Sta. Lourdes Wharf. It's a convenient option if you're heading straight to island hopping upon arrival. TikTok

While tricycles and taxis are common, you might find local jeepneys heading in the general direction, but they may require transfers. Hiring a van or tricycle directly is often more convenient. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tour packages are generally affordable and include boat transfers and entrance fees. Prices can vary depending on the number of islands visited and the size of your group. Expect to pay around PHP 1,500-2,500 for a boat. Reddit

Yes, there are usually small environmental or entrance fees for each island you visit, typically ranging from PHP 50-150 per person. Reddit

For day trips, booking in advance isn't usually necessary, especially if you arrive early. However, during peak season, booking a day or two ahead might secure better rates or availability. Reddit

A typical package includes boat rental, environmental fees for the islands, and sometimes a simple lunch. Snorkel gear and aqua shoes are usually rented separately. Reddit

Yes, it's common to negotiate prices, especially if you have a larger group or are visiting during the off-peak season. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The most popular islands are Luli Island (known for its disappearing sandbar), Pambato Reef (for snorkeling), and Cowrie Island (for relaxation and facilities). Reddit

Pambato Reef offers a decent snorkeling experience, especially for beginners, with a chance to see tropical fish and corals from a floating platform. However, some parts show wear from tourism. Reddit

Cowrie Island is the most developed and offers swimming, lounging on the beach, and dining facilities. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. Reddit

Yes, Cowrie Island has the most developed facilities, including restrooms and changing areas. Other islands may have more basic options. Reddit

Yes, Honda Bay is generally family-friendly. The waters are usually calm, and Luli Island and Cowrie Island offer safe swimming areas. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Food options are generally limited to basic meals, often seafood, available for purchase on Cowrie Island. Many visitors opt for a picnic lunch. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own packed lunch and drinks is a common practice and can be more cost-effective. Reddit

There are some local eateries and small restaurants near Sta. Lourdes Wharf where you can grab a bite before or after your island hopping tour. Reddit

Absolutely! Many visitors enjoy picnic lunches on the beaches of Luli Island or Cowrie Island. Reddit

You can typically find grilled fish, squid, and other local seafood dishes prepared fresh on the islands. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Luli Island is fantastic for photos, especially during low tide when the sandbar is visible. The clear waters and sandy beaches of Cowrie Island also offer great photo opportunities. Instagram

While drones can capture stunning aerial views, be mindful of local regulations and other tourists. Check if drone usage is permitted before flying. TikTok

A waterproof camera or a good smartphone with a waterproof case is ideal for capturing underwater shots and beach activities. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for photography. Sunrise flights can also provide spectacular views. TikTok

Timing is key! Visit during low tide to see the sandbar emerge. Capture the contrast of the sand against the water as the tide changes. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Honda Bay is an excellent choice for families. The waters are generally calm and shallow, making them safe for children to swim and play. Reddit Luli Island's sandbar is a fun novelty for kids, and Cowrie Island offers plenty of space to run around and relax. Reddit Bringing your own snacks and drinks is recommended, as food options can be basic. Consider packing extra towels and a change of clothes for the little ones. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

To make Honda Bay budget-friendly, form a group to share boat rental costs, as boats are typically priced per trip. Reddit Bringing your own packed lunch and drinks will significantly cut down on expenses, as island food can be pricier. Reddit Also, carrying your own snorkel gear and aqua shoes avoids rental fees. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For stunning shots, aim for an early morning visit to catch the best light and fewer crowds. TikTok Luli Island during low tide is a must-capture for its unique sandbar. Instagram A waterproof camera or phone case is highly recommended to capture the vibrant marine life and beach scenes without worry. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Island Hopping Logistics

Embarking on an island-hopping adventure from Sta. Lourdes Wharf is a quintessential Puerto Princesa experience. The process typically begins with securing a boat rental at the wharf. Boats are usually rented per trip, accommodating a certain number of passengers, making it cost-effective for groups. Reddit It's wise to arrive early, ideally before 8 AM, to avoid the peak crowds and ensure you get the best boat and departure time. TikTok The typical tour includes visits to Luli Island, Pambato Reef, and Cowrie Island, each offering a distinct experience. Reddit Remember to factor in small environmental fees for each island, which are usually collected upon arrival. Reddit

When planning your trip, consider bringing your own snorkeling gear and aqua shoes. While rentals are available, having your own can be more hygienic and cost-effective, especially if you plan on snorkeling at multiple spots. Reddit A waterproof bag is also a lifesaver for protecting your phone, camera, and other valuables from the sea spray and occasional splashes. Instagram The journey between islands is relatively short, allowing you to maximize your time enjoying the sun, sand, and sea. Reddit

For those arriving with luggage before check-in, there are options for luggage storage at the wharf or nearby establishments, though it's best to confirm availability and costs beforehand. Reddit This convenience allows you to dive straight into your island adventure without the burden of your bags. Reddit The overall experience is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, making it a popular choice for day-trippers and families. Reddit

Understanding Honda Bay's Islands

Honda Bay is home to several islands, each with its unique charm. Luli Island is perhaps the most famous for its 'lulubog-lilitaw' (disappearing-emerging) sandbar, which appears during low tide, creating a magical, ephemeral landscape perfect for photos. Reddit Its shallow waters are also great for wading and enjoying the scenery. Instagram

Pambato Reef is a designated marine sanctuary and a popular spot for snorkeling. While it may not boast the vibrant coral gardens of more remote Palawan destinations, it offers a good opportunity for beginners to get acquainted with underwater life from a floating platform. Reddit You can expect to see various tropical fish darting amongst the corals. Reddit

Cowrie Island is the most developed of the three main tourist islands. It features more amenities, including restaurants, picnic areas, and comfortable lounging spots. It's an ideal place to relax, swim in its calm waters, and enjoy a meal after a morning of exploring. Reddit The island provides a pleasant end to the island-hopping tour, offering a more resort-like feel compared to the other islands. Reddit

Environmental Considerations

While Honda Bay offers a convenient and beautiful island-hopping experience, it's important to be mindful of its environmental impact. The popularity of the area means that some coral reefs, particularly at Pambato Reef, show signs of wear and tear from tourism. Reddit Visitors are encouraged to practice responsible tourism by avoiding touching corals, not feeding the fish, and properly disposing of any trash. Reddit

Efforts have been made to clean up the area, and many locals are actively involved in preserving its natural beauty. Reddit Choosing tour operators who adhere to sustainable practices and respecting the marine environment will help ensure that Honda Bay remains a beautiful destination for future visitors. Reddit The community's commitment to cleanliness is evident, making the experience more enjoyable and safer. Reddit

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