In short
- Honda Bay is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on sandy beaches.
- The Underground River focuses on viewing rock formations inside a dark cave system.
- Both locations share the same mandatory ₱150 Environmental Fee receipt.
In this article
- What is the difference between Honda Bay and the Underground River?
- Which destination is closer to Puerto Princesa?
- Honda Bay vs Underground River price comparison
- Who should choose Honda Bay Island Hopping?
- Who should visit the Underground River?
- Can I do both Honda Bay and the Underground River in one day?
Visitors to Puerto Princesa often debate between booking an island-hopping tour or visiting the famous subterranean river. Honda Bay sits 12 to 15 kilometers north of the city center. It provides a full day of swimming and snorkeling across three islands. The Underground River offers a completely different experience focused on geology and cave navigation.
What is the difference between Honda Bay and the Underground River?
Honda Bay is a marine activity day, while the Underground River is a guided cave tour.
At Honda Bay, you will spend 7 to 8 hours visiting islands like Cowrie, Luli, and Starfish. You can swim, sunbathe, and snorkel over shallow coral reefs. The Underground River tour involves sitting in a boat while a guide navigates through a flooded cave system.
Which destination is closer to Puerto Princesa?
Honda Bay is much closer to the city center.
You can reach the Honda Bay Sta. Lourdes Wharf in 30 to 45 minutes by van or tricycle. The distance is only 12 to 15 kilometers. The Underground River requires a longer drive outside of the main city proper.
Honda Bay vs Underground River price comparison
Both trips require a ₱150 Environmental Fee, but Honda Bay offers flexible DIY pricing.
All-inclusive Honda Bay tours cost between ₱1,500 and ₱2,000. If you choose a DIY route, you pay ₱1,200 to ₱1,800 for a private boat plus individual island entrance fees. The ₱150 Environmental Fee is mandatory for both locations. If you pay it at one site, keep the receipt to use at the other.
| Feature | Honda Bay | Underground River |
|---|---|---|
| Main Activity | Island hopping & snorkeling | Cave boat tour |
| Travel Time | 30 to 45 minutes | Further from city center |
| Shared Fee | ₱150 Environmental Fee | ₱150 Environmental Fee |
Who should choose Honda Bay Island Hopping?
Choose Honda Bay if you want to swim, snorkel, and relax on the sand.
This trip fits travelers who prefer outdoor water activities and beach lounging. Families often enjoy Cowrie Island for its cabanas and buffet lunch. Snorkelers can visit Pambato Reef for a ₱50 fee to see protected marine life.
Who should visit the Underground River?
Choose the cave tour if you prefer geology and minimal physical exertion.
The cave tour is highly structured. You sit in a boat while a guide points out rock formations. It involves very little swimming or free time on a beach. This option suits those wanting to see a natural cave monument.
Can I do both Honda Bay and the Underground River in one day?
No, both activities require a full day.
Standard Honda Bay tours last 7 to 8 hours and usually depart around 8:00 AM. The Underground River also takes up a full day due to travel time and waiting for boat assignments. You will need two separate days in your itinerary to do both.
Questions travellers ask
Does the environmental fee cover both Honda Bay and the Underground River?
Yes. The ₱150 Environmental Fee is a one-time payment. Keep your receipt, as it is valid for both the Underground River and Honda Bay.
Do Honda Bay tours include lunch?
Most all-inclusive joiner tours include a buffet lunch, usually served at Cowrie Island. If you go DIY, you need to bring your own food or buy it there.
Which tour is better for young children?
Honda Bay is very family-friendly. The travel time is short (30 to 45 minutes), and islands like Cowrie have shallow waters, shaded cabanas, and large restaurants.
