FAQ
Honda Bay FAQ
Find quick answers about boat rentals, island entrances, and environmental rules at Honda Bay.
How much is the entrance fee for Honda Bay?
DIY visitors pay a ₱150 Environmental Fee. You must also pay separate island entrance fees: Cowrie is ₱150, Luli is ₱120, and Starfish is ₱100. Pambato Reef charges a ₱50 fee.
How to do a DIY tour of Honda Bay?
Take a tricycle or local jeepney to Sta. Lourdes Wharf. Register at the Tourist Information Center and pay the ₱150 Environmental Fee. You can then rent a private boat at fixed rates based on size. See Honda Bay DIY for full details.
What islands are included in the Honda Bay tour?
Standard tours visit three distinct islands. Most packages include Cowrie Island, Luli Island, and Starfish Island. Read more about them in Swim and Relax.
How far is Honda Bay from Puerto Princesa City?
The departure point, Sta. Lourdes Wharf, is 12 to 15 kilometers north of the city proper. The drive takes 30 to 45 minutes by car or tricycle.
Should I choose Honda Bay or the Underground River?
Honda Bay offers a relaxing day of swimming and snorkeling on sandy islands. The Underground River focuses on exploring a large cave system. Read our full breakdown at Bay vs River.
Are starfish still in Starfish Island?
Yes, starfish remain scattered across the shallow waters of the island. You are strictly forbidden from touching, stepping on, or lifting them out of the water.
Is Pambato Reef open for snorkeling?
Yes, Pambato Reef is open. It operates as the bay's main snorkeling sanctuary. You must pay an extra ₱50 entrance fee to snorkel from the floating platform.
Why is Snake Island closed in Honda Bay?
Snake Island is closed by the DENR for marine research and coral rehabilitation. Boats are not allowed to drop passengers there.
How much does a boat rental cost at Honda Bay Wharf?
Private boat rentals have fixed rates based on passenger capacity. A boat for 1-6 passengers costs ₱1,200. A boat for 11-15 passengers costs up to ₱1,800.
Can I just go to Cowrie Island?
Yes. DIY visitors can rent a boat at the wharf and travel directly to Cowrie Island. You will still need to pay the boat rental fee, the ₱150 Environmental Fee, and the ₱150 island entrance fee.
What is the environmental fee in Puerto Princesa?
The city charges a mandatory ₱150 Environmental Fee. This receipt is valid for both Honda Bay and the Underground River tours.
Is lunch included in the Honda Bay tour?
All-inclusive joiner tours usually include a buffet lunch. DIY visitors must arrange their own food or purchase meals at Cowrie Island.