It’s true that with so much to see and do in Puerto Princesa Palawan, a two- or three-day vacation won’t suffice. One must-not-miss attraction is Honda Bay. The Honda Bay island hopping tour, which takes about a whole day, brings you to some of the city’s most awe-inspiring islands, which include Pandan, Luli, Cowrie and Starfish.
My family and I have been here countless times but every time we go, we still enjoy every minute of it. Although the island beaches get a little more and more crowded each year, the waters are still clear, and the sand almost as white as powder.
Our favorite island is Pandan. This place is just bustling with things to do. Kayaking, snorkeling, beach combing, billiards, massage—name it, the island has it. Legend Hotel Puerto Princesa runs and operates Pandan, which is the most developed among all the islands.
Many tourists opt to eat their lunch here but you’d want to get a little early so you don’t run out of cottages to rent. There’s a nice snorkeling area in front of the beach (but not as exquisite as the one in Pambato Reef, which we’ll get to later).
If you prefer peace and quiet, Cowrie Island is the place for you. Another great option would be Luli Island. Luli is short for “lulubog-lilitaw,” meaning now you see it, now you don’t. The highlight of the trip is the Pambato Reef. If you enjoyed the showcase of marine life at Pandan, wait until you see what Pambato Reef has in store. It would surely leave your mouth hanging.
Here’s a quick rundown of what we spent in our most recent visit this year.
• Boat rental for six people PHP1,600
• Environmental fee per head PHP40
• Terminal fee per head PHP50
• Snorkel rental PHP150
• Aqua shoes rental PHP150
• Entrance fees:
Cowrie Island PHP75
Pandan Island PHP100
Pambato Reef P50
• Cottage PHP300 to PHP500
• Van Rental PHP1,200
It doesn’t matter how many times you go on an island hopping tour around Honda Bay, you’d always have a grand time.
/// Written by Wendeline Garcia, The Philippines
