Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Get to Sta. Lourdes Wharf early. Standard tours depart around 8:00 AM for the best weather and calmer seas.
Honda Bay Island Hopping
Honda Bay Wharf Service Rd, Sta. Lourdes, Puerto Princesa City
GPS 9.844, 118.7459
Open directionsGetting there
Getting to the Sta. Lourdes Wharf from Puerto Princesa.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tour: Book a joiner or private tour package from a hotel or travel agency in Puerto Princesa. | 7-8 hours | ₱1,500-₱2,000 | The most convenient option; usually includes hotel transfers, boat, entry fees, and a buffet lunch. |
| Car: Charter a tricycle from Puerto Princesa city center to Sta. Lourdes Wharf. | 30-45 mins | ₱700 round trip | The driver will wait for you at the wharf while you complete your island hopping. |
| Bus: Take a local jeepney or multicab bound for Sta. Lourdes along the national highway. | 30-45 mins | ₱25-₱50 | The cheapest DIY method. Ask the driver to drop you off near the Honda Bay pier. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The optimal months are December through May. This dry season provides clearer skies. Try to start your boat tour at 8:00 AM.
What to bring
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Bring a reusable water bottle.
Single-use plastics are banned in Puerto Princesa.
How the day runs
Suggested ways to structure your island hopping trip.
A typical full-day guided itinerary covering three main islands and lunch.
- Hotel pickup
Wait at your Puerto Princesa city center hotel for the van transfer.
- Sta. Lourdes Wharf
Register at the Tourist Information Center and pay fees.
- Starfish Island
View starfish in the shallow, clear waters.
- Luli Island
Swim near the sandbar and try the diving board platform.
- Cowrie Island
Eat a buffet lunch and relax in thatched cabanas.
- Return
Arrive back at the wharf for the transfer to your hotel.
A self-paced morning trip focusing on snorkeling and beach time.
- Transport
Charter a tricycle from the city center to the wharf.
- Boat rental
Pay the ₱150 Environmental Fee and hire a private boat.
- Pambato Reef
Pay the ₱50 fee to snorkel at the floating platform.
- Cowrie Island
Pay the ₱150 entrance fee. Swim and rent a banana boat.
- Return journey
Head back to the wharf. Your tricycle driver will be waiting.
Practical advice
Bring small cash denominations. There are no ATMs at the wharf or on the islands. You will need cash for rental gear, extra island fees, and snacks.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen and a dry bag. Food options on the islands are limited and can be expensive, so consider bringing light snacks.
Easiest way to do it
Full-Day Puerto Princesa Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour
7 h 4.2 (9)
- Boat Fee
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Entrace Fee to Islands
- Licensed Tour Guide
From$45per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How far is Honda Bay from Puerto Princesa City?
The Sta. Lourdes Wharf is 12 to 15 kilometers north of the city proper. It takes 30 to 45 minutes to drive there.
What should I pack for Honda Bay?
Bring a reusable water bottle, reef-safe sunscreen, and a dry bag. You should also pack aqua shoes for rocky shorelines. See more in Packing Essentials.
Are starfish still in Starfish Island?
Yes, there is an abundance of starfish in the shallow waters. Visitors must observe the strict rule against touching or lifting them out of the water.