Swim, snack, repeat—Honda Bay is built for a laid-back beach day. This shared island-hopping tour takes you by boat to Lu-Li and Cowrie for swimming, snorkeling, and serious sun time, with hotel pickup from select spots. It’s a simple plan that still feels like you’re getting out on the water, not just sitting on a bus.

I love that it’s small-group and guide-led. You get round-trip transfers from select hotels, plus a local guide who keeps the day moving without rushing you through the good parts. I also like that lunch is included on Cowrie Island, so you’re not hunting for food between swim breaks.

One thing to consider: snorkeling gear and water shoes aren’t included. You’ll likely rent at the start (there’s a shoe/gear stop on the way), and that can add cost if you’re not prepared.

Key points to know before you go

• Small group (max 15): easier pace, more guide attention when questions pop up.
• Two real beach stops: Lu-Li for lounging and Cowrie for water time plus lunch.
• Snorkeling gear is not part of the package: plan to rent or bring your own.
• Cowrie lunch is built into the schedule: you eat while you’re already set up for sun and swim.
• Water shoes are strongly worth it: they come up fast once you’re on the rocks and entry points.
• Select-hotel pickup is included: if your hotel isn’t on the list, you may need to arrange transfers.

A Small-Group Day in Honda Bay: What the 6–8 Hours Actually Feels Like

This tour is designed for one thing: a full beach day without complicated logistics. Expect about 6 to 8 hours total on the water and in between, depending on timing and traffic for pickup. It’s long enough to feel like a break, but not so long that you lose energy before the last stop.

The shared format helps the vibe. With up to 15 travelers, the day tends to run with fewer bottlenecks—like getting your questions answered quickly or regrouping without drama. You’ll still move as a group, but it doesn’t feel like you’re being herded.

If you like a plan that’s mostly “go swim,” this works. There’s time to lounge, take shade in hammocks, and use the islands at your own speed once you arrive. I also like that the schedule gives you a first stop that’s more chill, then a second stop that’s more active and timed around lunch.

Getting There With Select-Hotel Pickup and the Palawan Meeting Point

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, but only for select hotels. If your hotel is beyond 10 miles (15 km) from the airport, you won’t get pickup as part of the included service. Also note a specific heads-up: if you’re staying at Astoria Palawan, you’ll need to book transfers separately.

Pickup times are confirmed the day before through your hotel’s receptionist. On the ground, the meeting point is in Barangay sta Lourdes, Puerto Princesa City. The activity ends back at the meeting point, so you’re not guessing where the boat drops off.

One practical plus: the meeting area is near public transportation. That matters if your pickup isn’t included or if you’re arriving early. You’ll be able to get yourself sorted without turning the day into a scavenger hunt.

Lu-Li Island: Hammocks, Swim Time, and a Mini-Bar Pause

Lu-Li Island is your first stop, with about 1 hour on the island. This is a great warm-up stop. You get there, settle in, and decide how you want to spend that hour—swimming, relaxing, or simply lying low and letting the sun do its job.

What I like about Lu-Li is the mix of easy comfort and small extras. There are hammocks where you can just switch off for a bit, and the island also has a mini bar that serves cocktails. So even if you’re not in full snorkeling mode right away, there are other ways to enjoy the stop.

The main consideration at Lu-Li: you’ll want to be ready for water access. Even if you don’t plan to snorkel right away, shoes matter. The terrain and entry points can be rough, and the sooner you have the right footwear, the less you’ll be adjusting mid-day.

If you like to take photos, this is often the smoother moment to do it. You’re early, you’re not rushed, and the island setup is simple enough that you can find a calm spot fast.

Cowrie Island: Lunch Included, Water Activities, and Coconut-Drink Breaks

Your second stop is Cowrie Island, and this is where the plan gets more “beach day” and less “warm-up.” You’ll get about 2 hours here, and lunch is served during your time on the island. Translation: you don’t have to plan a meal around a boat schedule. You arrive, you swim, you eat, and you keep going.

Cowrie’s swimming area is described as generous, which helps if you want a longer stretch of time in the water without constantly re-positioning. There are also other water activities available, so if snorkeling isn’t your main interest, you still have options.

One of the nicest details is that you can slow down in multiple ways. You can get a massage (time allowing during your island window), or just sunbathe with drinks—coco water is specifically mentioned. That little “stay comfortable” angle matters because a hot day gets tiring fast.

Here’s the trade-off: because Cowrie is also lunch time and has more going on, this stop can feel more active than Lu-Li. If you want a quiet moment, you’ll need to time it—maybe do swimming earlier, then shift to shade and recovery as the lunch window lands.

Snorkeling Reality Check: What Gear Costs and What to Bring

The tour is built around swimming and snorkeling, but snorkeling equipment is not included. You’ll need to rent or bring your own gear. And based on on-the-ground reality, water shoes are a bigger deal than most first-time visitors expect.

Here’s the practical setup: at the start, there’s a stop where you can rent water shoes and snorkeling gear. That can be convenient, because you don’t have to track down a rental shop later. But it also means you might pay extra if you show up without the right items.

So what should you do?

• Bring water shoes if you can. They reduce slipping and make entry much easier.
• If you snorkel, consider bringing your own mask/snorkel. If you rent, budget for it and don’t assume everything is automatically covered.
• Pack sunscreen and a dry bag. You’ll be on boats and in and out of the water all day.

If you’re unsure about snorkeling, you still get plenty from the islands without it. The tour’s not only about seeing fish. It’s also about floating, lounging, and getting that full “I spent the day outside” payoff.

Price and Value: Is $38 Worth It After Extra Fees?

At $38 per person, this tour sits in a sweet spot for a day on the water. You’re paying for guided island hopping, lunch, and (for many people) round-trip transfers from select hotels. Add in the small group size and you’re not just buying ferry time—you’re buying a guided flow and an easy schedule.

Now, the money footnotes you should plan for:

• There’s a government fee listed at ₱150.00 per person.
• Snorkeling equipment isn’t included, so expect possible rental costs.
• Water shoes may cost extra if you don’t bring your own and if you need them on arrival.

The best way to think about the value: you’re not just paying for “transport to two beaches.” You’re also getting lunch and a local guide managing the day. For many visitors, that’s where the cost makes sense—especially if your hotel is in the pickup zone.

One more practical detail: group discounts and a mobile ticket are offered, which can make the booking side smoother. If you’re traveling with friends, it’s worth checking if your group can take advantage of the discounts when booking.

Weather, Timing, and How to Make the Most of Your Day

This tour depends on favorable weather conditions. If weather forces a cancellation, you’ll get the option of an alternative tour or date. That’s important because in coastal areas, wind and sea conditions can change quickly.

Timing-wise, expect that travel durations are approximate and influenced by day-of conditions like traffic and pickup timing. That’s normal, but it changes how you should pack: plan for a relaxed pace and don’t schedule anything tight right before or after.

What helps your day run better:

• Arrive early for pickup to avoid stress.
• Bring a cover-up and a towel if you have one you like.
• Bring cash for fees and rentals so you aren’t stuck searching when it’s time.

If you’re the kind of person who hates waiting, this may feel slower than you’d like. But if you can handle a beach rhythm—get there, swim, snack, repeat—you’ll enjoy the day.

Who This Shared Honda Bay Tour Suits Best

This is a strong match for:

• Beach lovers who want an easy two-island day without planning.
• People who enjoy snorkeling or want to try it with rental options.
• Travelers who want hotel pickup from select locations, plus lunch handled.
• Anyone who likes a small-group feel with more guide attention.

If you’re traveling with kids, it’s also a workable format because the itinerary is straightforward and the stops are designed around time on islands. The only catch is that children must be accompanied by an adult.

This tour is less ideal if you:

• Want snorkeling gear guaranteed in the package (it’s not listed as included).
• Need pickup from a hotel outside the select area (you may need separate transfers).
• Want a very private, totally custom pace.

Should You Book This Shared Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour?

If you want a simple, good-value day in Honda Bay—with guided stops at Lu-Li and Cowrie, lunch included, and a small-group feel—I’d book this. Just go in with two expectations: you’ll likely spend extra on water shoes (and possibly snorkeling gear), and the day’s length depends on pickup and weather.

My quick decision rule: book it if you’re happy to show up prepared with footwear and sun basics, and you want an easy schedule with real beach time. Skip it or adjust your plan if you’re counting on snorkeling gear being fully included or you’re staying outside the pickup zone.

FAQ

How long is the shared Honda Bay island hopping tour?

It runs about 6 to 8 hours total, including pickup and travel time. Transfer times are approximate and can vary with traffic and time of day.

What islands are included?

You’ll visit Lu-Li Island (about 1 hour) and Cowrie Island (about 2 hours).

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is included and is served during your time on Cowrie Island.

Are hotel pickup and drop-off included?

Yes, but only for select hotels. If your hotel is more than 10 miles (15 km) from the airport, pickup/drop-off may not be included. Exact pickup time is provided the day before via your hotel’s receptionist.

Do I need to bring snorkeling gear?

Snorkeling equipment is not included. You’ll need to rent or bring snorkeling gear.

Are water shoes required?

Water shoes aren’t listed as included, and they’re strongly useful for comfortable island access. There’s a rental stop early on where you can rent water shoes.

What is the government fee?

A ₱150.00 per person government fee is not included.

What happens if the tour is canceled due to weather?

If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative tour or a different date. Free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You Might Also Enjoy

Wonderful Snorkeling Trip from Manila! updated 2023***Private Day Trip Cebu to Bohol w/ Chocolate Hills & Loboc CruiseManila Old & New City Private TourCoron: Private Boat Hire with Bespoke Guided Tour