So you are ready to visit the stunning islands of Honda Bay in Palawan, Philippines!
As you dream of turquoise waters and white sand beaches, are you wondering how to get to Bahia Honda?
Let me guide you to this tropical paradise. Get ready for an unforgettable trip filled with sun, sea, and pure island bliss. It’s time to start planning your perfect Palawan getaway!
Here is an overview:
How to get to Honda Bay, Palawan
Located on the east coast of the Palawan Islands, you can easily enjoy a day of island hopping. Explore one of Palawan’s natural paradises, also known as “The Last Frontier.”
To experience island hopping in Honda Bay, you have a few options: Take public transportation, rent a van or book a tour package.
You will most likely arrive in Puerto Princesa, Palawan’s capital and main gateway.
By plane
The fastest way to get to Puerto Princesa is by plane. You can hop on a plane from Manilathe capital of the Philippinesto Puerto Princesa City in Palawan. Daily commercial flights are available with airlines such as Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Air Asia and Air Philippines. The flight takes only two hours and is quite affordable.
It’s a good idea to book your flight at least a month or two in advance, as prices rise quickly. Fares can start from $40 (PHP 2000) but can go up to $160 (PHP 8000) as your travel dates get closer.
In our experience, we recommend Cebu Pacific over Philippine Airlines as they often offer cheaper fares.
By ferry: from island to island
The cheapest option to get to Puerto Princesa is to take the ferry with 2GO Travel. It takes just over 30 hours to get to Puerto Princesa and there are only three departures every three days.
When weighing the cost of a ferry ticket against an advance plane ticket with Cebu Pacific, we think spending a little more on the flight is totally worth it… unless you’re a cruise fanatic and have some time on your hands.
Just so you know, there are no ferry connections between Cebu and Puerto Princesa, so flying is your only option.
Once you are there in Puerto Princesa City, be sure to take a boat trip to the untouched paradise and explore Cowrie Island, Starfish Island, and Luli Island while island hopping.
Things to do in Honda Bay
Get ready to relax at Honda Bay Islands! Dive in and see the colorful corals, fish, and marine life. Exploring the underwater world is a wonder.
Honda Bay is perfect for snorkeling, whether you are a beginner or a pro. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy the stunning underwater views and live an unforgettable experience.
Plan and book a tour
You can also snorkel around the islands and Pambato Reef. A day trip to three islands, including Cowrie Island, Starfish Island and Luli Island, is a great option.
Some islands in Bahia Honda are private, while others are protected areas managed by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and are not open to the public.
Related reading: Diving spots in the Philippines
Snorkeling excursion on the island
Don’t have time to plan a day trip? Don’t worry! Save time and money by booking a tour package that includes boat and land transportation, guided tours, island entrance fees, lunch, and a licensed tour guide.
At the pier there are no hidden charges to worry about – everything is included in the price, even the fees that other tour operators and agencies typically charge there.
You can choose a private tour for a more personalized experience or opt for a shared tour if you are watching your budget.
Start your day with a refreshing swim and snorkeling session, followed by a delicious lunch on one of the beautiful islands. Relax and soak up the sun on an island in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines.
Imagine swimming and playing in crystal-clear waters, observing marine life in its natural habitat.
Simply book your tour package with World Holiday Travel and Tours on their website and they will pick you up at your hotel, cruise port or airport. Their tour packages allow you to relax, save and enjoy the trip.
Just sit back, relax and savor the experience.
Price: 11,695 private tour
Duration: 5 hours
What do you get?
- Convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off service within the city.
- Additional fee for hotels outside the city
Bring a swimsuit and a change of clothes.
Plan the trip yourself
Planning your own island-hopping adventure can be a unique experience. Be prepared to haggle with the boat operator, check in at the dock, and pay the entrance fee to each island, plus a 160 peso environmental fee.
Typically tourists visit three islands, and each island costs between 50-100, and the private island costs even more, 1250. So it all adds up.
Larger boats, with capacity for 20 passengers, typically cost around 1,500 pesos. If you prefer a smaller boat, expect to pay around 1,300 pesos.
A good tip is to team up with other travelers to share the costs. If you split the cost between five people, for example, each person would only have to contribute about 500 pesos. It’s a great way to enjoy a private tour without spending a fortune!
The Palawan Islands
- Pandan Island It’s a gem! With its stunning white sand beach, cozy huts for ultimate relaxation, and various activities like kayaking and snorkeling, this place is a must-visit. The entrance fee is only 150 PHP (3 USD) and huts can be rented for 500 PHP (10 USD).
- Starfish Island lives up to its name, with plenty of starfish to discover while snorkelling or walking along the shore.
- Snake IslandTrue to its name, it is perfect for a quiet picnic with its charming cottages along the shoreline.
- Pambato reef offers a fantastic snorkelling experience from a platform in the middle of the vibrant reefs.
- Luli Island It is a hidden treasure, a sandbank that emerges during low tide to live a unique experience.
- Cowrie Island It is a quiet place with a central bar, ideal for having cocktails and watching the sunset in paradise.
- Two Palms Island It is the jewel in Honda Bay’s crown, but keep in mind that it is privately owned, so you will need to book a full-day tour to enjoy its beauty.
Book an overnight stay in Honda Bay
You can also spend a day and a night on an island, like in the Dos Palmas Island Resort & Spa.
This resort is a gem thanks to its super friendly and welcoming staff that makes you feel right at home.
The island’s only restaurant doesn’t serve fancy dishes, but the food is delicious, plentiful and affordable. Plus, there are live performances every night to keep you entertained.
You’ll never get bored here with all the free activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and tennis. And don’t forget to treat yourself at the spa. The beauty salon is fantastic and is ideal for pampering yourself!
Set in a lush garden, the bungalows offer spacious rooms with sea views from the terrace. Perfect for families, each bungalow features four bedrooms and a combination of beds for a comfortable stay.
What is the best time to go to Bahia Honda?
It is ideal to visit during the dry season, from November to Apriland avoid rush hour and holidays to stay away from the crowds as it is a point of interest for both locals and tourists.
