Sta. Lourdes Wharf Honda Bay
Discover the enchanting islands of Honda Bay, offering a convenient and scenic escape with unique sandbars and snorkeling spots.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer waters
Sta. Lourdes Wharf Honda Bay
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer waters
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the enchanting islands of Honda Bay, offering a convenient and scenic escape with unique sandbars and snorkeling spots.
"A great way to enjoy Palawan's beauty without going too far from the city."
🎯 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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
Honda Bay
Get up close with tropical fish and corals from a floating platform, perfect for beginners.
Cowrie Island Relaxation
Honda Bay
The most developed island, offering a perfect spot to swim, dine, and unwind after a day of exploring.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Early Bird Gets the Island
Pack Smart for Island Hopping
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
💰 Carry Cash
For island entrance fees, food, and souvenirs.
💧 Waterproof Your Valuables
Protect your phone and camera from water splashes. :iphone:
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.
🤿 Bring Your Own Gear
Pack snorkel and aqua shoes to save on rental costs.
💰 Carry Cash
For island entrance fees, food, and souvenirs.
💧 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
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
Yes, you can arrange your island hopping tours directly at Sta. Lourdes Wharf. There are many boat operators available.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
Yes, there are usually small environmental or entrance fees for each island you visit, typically ranging from PHP 50-150 per person.
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.
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.
Yes, it's common to negotiate prices, especially if you have a larger group or are visiting during the off-peak season.
🎫 🧭 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).
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.
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.
Yes, Cowrie Island has the most developed facilities, including restrooms and changing areas. Other islands may have more basic options.
Yes, Honda Bay is generally family-friendly. The waters are usually calm, and Luli Island and Cowrie Island offer safe swimming areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
Yes, bringing your own packed lunch and drinks is a common practice and can be more cost-effective.
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.
Absolutely! Many visitors enjoy picnic lunches on the beaches of Luli Island or Cowrie Island.
You can typically find grilled fish, squid, and other local seafood dishes prepared fresh on the islands.
📸 📸 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.
While drones can capture stunning aerial views, be mindful of local regulations and other tourists. Check if drone usage is permitted before flying.
A waterproof camera or a good smartphone with a waterproof case is ideal for capturing underwater shots and beach activities.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for photography. Sunrise flights can also provide spectacular views.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Island Hopping Logistics
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. A waterproof bag is also a lifesaver for protecting your phone, camera, and other valuables from the sea spray and occasional splashes. The journey between islands is relatively short, allowing you to maximize your time enjoying the sun, sand, and sea.
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. This convenience allows you to dive straight into your island adventure without the burden of your bags. The overall experience is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, making it a popular choice for day-trippers and families.
Understanding Honda Bay's Islands
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. You can expect to see various tropical fish darting amongst the corals.
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. The island provides a pleasant end to the island-hopping tour, offering a more resort-like feel compared to the other islands.
Environmental Considerations
Efforts have been made to clean up the area, and many locals are actively involved in preserving its natural beauty. 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. The community's commitment to cleanliness is evident, making the experience more enjoyable and safer.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit