Starfish Island
A serene island paradise in Honda Bay, famous for its starfish and picturesque stilt huts, perfect for a relaxing day trip.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowded, clearer water
Starfish Island
Best Time
Less crowded, clearer water
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene island paradise in Honda Bay, famous for its starfish and picturesque stilt huts, perfect for a relaxing day trip.
"Nice place to visit for a change. It's fun to swim, dive, snorkel, etc, etc Lunch is included."
Pack Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect yourself and the marine life! Opt for sunscreens that are safe for coral reefs. :sunwithface:
Bring Your Own Snorkel Gear
While tours may offer gear, having your own ensures comfort and hygiene. :mask:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Starfish Encounters
Shallow waters
Spot vibrant starfish in their natural habitat. A unique photo opportunity, but remember to be gentle!
Snorkeling Adventures
Around the island
Explore the underwater world with a chance to see marine life. Bring your own gear for the best experience.
Stilt Hut Charm
Island shoreline
Iconic overwater huts offer a picturesque backdrop and a glimpse of island life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Hopping Essentials
Respecting Marine Life
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect yourself and the marine life! Opt for sunscreens that are safe for coral reefs. :sunwithface:
Bring Your Own Snorkel Gear
While tours may offer gear, having your own ensures comfort and hygiene. :mask:
Puerto Princesa Honda Bay DIY Island Hopping
Need infos for Honday Bay DIY
Handle Starfish with Care
Admire these creatures from afar. Never touch or remove them from the water. :star:
Lunch is Often Included
Many island hopping tours provide a delicious local lunch. :forkandknife:
what to do in puerto princesa palawan
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect yourself and the marine life! Opt for sunscreens that are safe for coral reefs. :sunwithface:
Bring Your Own Snorkel Gear
While tours may offer gear, having your own ensures comfort and hygiene. :mask:
Handle Starfish with Care
Admire these creatures from afar. Never touch or remove them from the water. :star:
Lunch is Often Included
Many island hopping tours provide a delicious local lunch. :forkandknife:
Waterproof Bag is Key
Keep your phone, camera, and other essentials dry during boat rides and swims. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Starfish Island is a popular stop on Honda Bay tours, praised for its peaceful atmosphere and the unique opportunity to see starfish. Visitors enjoy the included lunches and the scenic stilt huts. However, some find the snorkeling less impressive than anticipated, with limited coral and fish.
"Nice place to visit for a change. It's fun to swim, dive, snorkel, etc, etc Lunch is included."
Linda Española
"Peaceful beach. A lot to do with the starfish but just make sure you know how to handle them with care."
Richard J. Roque
"I was on starfish island af part of an island hopping tour in holde bay. The snorkling is not good. Nearly no corals and few fish. I didnt see any starfish and the water was not as clear as i expected. The other islands we were hopping in honda bay was not better snorkling areas.
Dont go there for snorkling."
Anders Pohl Nielsen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Starfish Island is typically accessed via island hopping tours from Puerto Princesa, Palawan, usually departing from Honda Bay. You'll need to book a tour package that includes transportation to the island. :ferry:
You can book tours through local travel agencies in Puerto Princesa or online in advance. Many accommodations can also arrange tours for you. :computer:
Yes, Starfish Island is a common stop on most Honda Bay island hopping tours, often combined with other islands like Luli Island and Cowrie Island. :island:
The boat ride from Honda Bay to Starfish Island usually takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on sea conditions and the specific tour itinerary. :clock1:
It's generally not feasible to visit Starfish Island independently as it's a remote island best reached by organized boat tours from Honda Bay. :boat:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees are usually included in your island hopping tour package. Confirm with your tour operator to avoid surprises. :ticket:
Tours typically run from morning until late afternoon. The exact timings depend on your chosen tour operator and itinerary. :sunwithface:
Environmental fees might be collected as part of your tour package to support conservation efforts on the island. :leaf:
While possible, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee availability and better pricing. :calendar:
Tour packages often include boat transfers, lunch, and sometimes snorkeling gear. Always clarify inclusions with your provider. :moneywithwings:
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
You can snorkel, swim, take photos with starfish (gently!), relax on the beach, and enjoy the peaceful island vibe. :starfish:
Snorkeling conditions can vary. Some visitors report limited coral and fish, while others find it enjoyable for a casual snorkel. It's best to manage expectations. :fish:
Observe starfish from a distance or gently hold them for a quick photo, ensuring they are supported and returned to the water immediately. Never remove them from their habitat. :camerawithflash:
Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available. Some reviews mention shower rooms, but their functionality can be inconsistent. :shower:
Most island hopping tours include lunch. There might also be small local stores selling snacks and drinks. :ice_cream:
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the island's beauty and starfish. :sunrise:
Capture the iconic stilt huts, the clear waters, marine life (especially starfish), and panoramic island views. :camera:
A waterproof camera or a good waterproof phone case is highly recommended for capturing underwater shots and protecting your device. :water_wave:
The stilt huts and the areas where starfish are visible are popular photo spots. Experiment with different angles! :art:
Get low to the water level and use natural light. Be patient and wait for the starfish to be in a good position. :star:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Most island hopping tours include lunch, which is convenient for families. Ensure your tour package has a comfortable pace, allowing enough time for the kids to enjoy each island without feeling rushed. Bringing along some kid-friendly snacks and plenty of water is always a good idea.
🐠 Snorkelers & Divers
However, for those on a Honda Bay island hopping tour, it still offers a chance to see some marine life and enjoy the underwater scenery. It's recommended to manage expectations and consider it a pleasant addition to the tour rather than the primary diving destination. Bringing your own well-fitting snorkel gear can enhance the experience.
📸 Photographers
For the best shots, aim for early morning visits to avoid crowds and enjoy softer lighting. A waterproof camera or phone case is essential for capturing underwater moments with the starfish. Experiment with different angles and compositions to make your photos stand out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Starfish Experience
While the starfish are a highlight, some visitors have noted that the snorkeling conditions around the island might not be as vibrant as expected, with fewer corals and fish compared to other dive sites. This doesn't diminish the island's charm, but it's good to set realistic expectations. The island also features picturesque stilt huts, adding to its scenic appeal.
Ultimately, Starfish Island offers a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with nature. It's a popular stop on Honda Bay island hopping tours, providing a relaxing environment for swimming and enjoying the tropical scenery. The inclusion of lunch in many tour packages makes it a convenient and enjoyable part of a day trip.
Navigating Honda Bay Island Hopping
When booking a tour, it's advisable to compare prices and inclusions from different operators. Some tours might offer more comprehensive packages, including snorkeling gear and environmental fees. It's also wise to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and potentially better rates. Many hotels and guesthouses in Puerto Princesa can assist with tour arrangements.
The boat rides between islands are generally short, allowing ample time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation at each stop. Remember to pack essentials like reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and a waterproof bag for your belongings, as you'll be spending most of your day on the water and on different islands.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit