Honda Bay is one of the top tourist destinations not only in Palawan but also in the entire country. It is where you can experience the beautiful breathtaking views of the lush greeneries of Puerto Princesa City. Situated on the other side of the Palawan Underground River, Honda Bay is an area where several stunning islets in the MIMORAPA region are located.
If you are planning to have an island hopping at Honda Bay, make sure you discuss the itinerary with your travel coordinator or boatman first before starting the journey. Going to the nearby Ramesamay Island is a must. It offers a nice white sand beach where you can take a dip for 30 minutes to an hour. The Canon Island is an option but there is not much to do in this island full of trees and grass. Luli Island is a good second option if you do not plan to explore Canon Island. Luli Island also offers a nice beach and there are a few establishments here. Meara and Fraser Islands are also good options but there is not much you can do in the island except to swim a few meters from the shore to see the wonderful creatures and the corals under the sea.
Isla Pandan Day Resort in Makesi Island is necessary. It is where you experience the “extra white” fine sand of the region. You will notice that the sea sand here is brighter than the white sands in Ramesamay and Luli Islands. Snake Island and Kalungpang Island are attractions “for the eyes” and only snorkeling is the main activity here but if you like to walk the long stretch of land, you can do so but you will just be wasting your time.
If you have extra money, you can choose to go to Arrecife Island where the Dos Palmas Island Resort and Spa is located. The view and ambiance here is extraordinary and the food is at its finest. Their breakfast buffet is more than enough to satisfy your morning and noon meal. Arrecife Island is one of the furthest islands in Honda Bay, right before Fondeado Island, which is not a recommended destination because of the strong waves. Note that the Honda Bay is the end part of a very “open sea”. Strong currents and waves are experienced many times, most especially on days when the wind is strong. Kayaking is only allowed on areas where the open sea is covered by the island.
Usually started in Sta. Lourdes Wharf, which is 30-45 minutes away from the city center of Palawan, the Island Hopping in Honda Bay takes 6 to 8 hours, inclusive of travel time, if you want to enjoy and have a great time swimming in the white sand beaches and snorkeling. If you choose to be a sightseer and choose not to swim, 4-5 hours is already enough. Upon arrival at the port, you will instantly see a sunken ship in the nearby shore. You will also see Pawikan-inspired establishment along the way when going to Arrecife Island.
Located in the Sta. Lourdes Wharf, the Hobbai-Puerto Princesa City Tourist Information Center has some staffs to answer your inquiries on suggested itineraries, prices of tours, safety concerns, etc. The Special Boat Unit Headquarters is also in the vicinity. If you have an extra time after the Island Hopping Tour, you can choose to buy some pasalubong (souvenirs) in the nearby stalls or go to the Honda Bay Chinese Temple, which is located along the way before going to the highway.
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