How to Plan Your Puerto Princesa: Honda Bay Island Hopping & Optional Massage Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Puerto Princesa, Palawan, don’t forget to add the Honda Bay Island Hopping and Optional Massage tour to your itinerary. This excursion provides an unforgettable opportunity to experience the beauty of marine life, swim and snorkel in the clear waters, and relax on the beach. Here’s how you can plan your tour:

Booking Your Tour

The easiest way to book your Honda Bay Island Hopping and Optional Massage tour is through GetYourGuide, a reliable platform that connects travelers with local tour operators. The tour costs around $28 per person, and it includes a round-trip transfer from your hotel to Honda Bay, boat ride, licensed tour guide, and Filipino-style lunch. You can book your tour in advance through the following link: book the tour here.

Tour Highlights & Itinerary

The Honda Bay Island Hopping and Optional Massage tour provides an enjoyable and relaxing day out in the sun. The tour lasts for around 8 hours, and it includes the following:

Swimming & Snorkeling

Honda Bay is located on the eastern shore of Puerto Princesa, and it hosts a variety of tiny islands with resorts and beaches. You’ll get to visit three of these islands throughout the tour, each with its own unique attractions and characteristics. You’ll have the chance to swim, snorkel, and sunbathe on the beaches.

Marine Life Encounters

One of the highlights of the Honda Bay Island Hopping tour is the opportunity to get up close and personal with the marine life found at Honda Bay. You’ll get to see a wide variety of fish, coral, and giant clams in their natural habitats. You can bring your own snorkel gear or rent it at the stop before boarding the boat.

Lunch on the Island

After snorkeling and exploring the islands, you’ll be treated to a sumptuous lunch prepared on one of the islands. The lunch is typically Filipino-style and includes fish, meat, rice, and fruits.

Optional Beach Massage

For an additional fee, you can enjoy an optional beach massage on one of the islands. This is a perfect way to relax and unwind after a busy day of exploring.

The Itinerary

Here’s a detailed itinerary of the Honda Bay Island Hopping and Optional Massage tour, so you know what to expect:

– Pick up from your hotel (between 7:30-8:30 AM)
– Travel to the wharf in Barangay Sta. Lourdes (around 30 minutes)
– Rent snorkel aqua shoes and swimming fins (around 30 minutes)
– Board the boat and start the island hopping tour
– Visit Luli Island
– Visit Cowrie Island
– Visit Starfish Island
– Lunch on one of the islands
– Optional massage on the beach
– Return to the wharf
– Transfer back to your hotel (around 4:30 PM)

Tips for Your Tour

To make the most of your Honda Bay Island Hopping and Optional Massage tour, here are some tips:

– Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
– Wear swimwear and bring a towel and a change of clothes.
– Bring your own snorkel gear or rent it before boarding the boat.
– Bring your own water and snacks as there may not be many options for purchase on the islands.
– Don’t forget to bring cash for the optional massage and any souvenirs you might want to buy on the islands.

In Conclusion

The Honda Bay Island Hopping and Optional Massage tour is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Puerto Princesa, Palawan. It provides an excellent opportunity to explore the beauty of the marine life and islands, swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and relax. Remember to book your tour in advance, bring your own snorkel gear, and follow our tips for an unforgettable experience.

Insider’s Guide to Puerto Princesa: Discovering Its Hidden Gems

Puerto Princesa, a beautiful coastal city located in the western province of Palawan, is known for its stunning beaches and breathtaking islands. While the popular tourist spots are undoubtedly worth visiting, this insider’s guide aims to take you off the beaten path to ten hidden gems that only locals would know.

Local Attractions: Discovering the Hidden Gems

1. Nagtabon Beach – A secluded, palm-lined beach that offers stunning views of the ocean and an ideal spot to watch the sunset.
2. Palawan Museum – Offers an insightful glimpse into the rich history and culture of Palawan.
3. Batak Visitor Center – Provides a unique opportunity to interact with the indigenous Batak tribe and learn about their way of life.
4. Binuatan Creations – A place to witness traditional weaving and textile arts that date back to ancient times.

Dining Spots: Tasting the Best of Puerto Princesa

In Puerto Princesa, you will find a mix of Filipino, Asian, and Western cuisine. Here, some dining spots worth exploring:

1. Kalui Restaurant – Serves delicious seafood and local dishes with an artistic presentation.
2. Badjao Seafront Restaurant – Savour some delicious Filipino cuisine while taking in panoramic views of Honda Bay.
3. Namaskar Vegetarian Cafe – A fusion of Indian and Filipino cuisine that appeals to health enthusiasts.

Cultural Experiences: Immersing Oneself in the Local Culture

Puerto Princesa has a distinct culture, and various festivals celebrate it throughout the year.

1. Balayong Festival – Held every March, it celebrates the blooming of the city’s Balayong trees.
2. Pista Y Ang Kagueban – A festival that honours the city’s efforts in forest conservation and management.

Local History: Exploring the Past of Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesa has a rich history that offers fascinating insights into its cultural heritage.

1. Plaza Cuartel – Built in the 1940s by the Spaniards, it is the location of a tragic event known as the Palawan Massacre during World War II.
2. Immaculate Conception Cathedral – A scenic and serene Catholic church built in the Spanish colonial era.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Experiences Worth Remembering

1. Ugong Rock Adventures – An exciting experience where visitors can explore a series of caves and go ziplining.
2. Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center – A rehabilitation center for endangered species and a research center for wildlife conservation.

Now that you have an insider’s guide to Puerto Princesa, make sure you explore its hidden gems, taste its unique cuisine, and immerse yourself in its culture and traditions. Experience the city’s history and visit the places that are not typically on a tourist’s list. These off-the-beaten-path suggestions will make your visit to Puerto Princesa unforgettable.