Day trip to Honda Islands
We flew to Palawan on an AirAsia flight from Manila with was only 1 hour flight but we were delayed. Our original flight was supposed to leave at 07:00 but ended up leaving at 15:30! We were a big group with 13 excited family members just wanting to get to the crystal clear beaches.
As the plane descends, the beautiful landscape of Palawan unfolds beneath, promising a few days of adventure and relaxation. Stepping off the plane, the warm embrace of the tropical air instantly envelops me. After a quick transfer to the lovely Citystate Astorias Hotel Palawan we were met with refreshments and complementary room upgrades. Thank you Citystate Astoria!
Our first adventure awaits, we was supposed to all be ready in reception by 7:30am but the hotel breakfast was too delicious, a buffet of Filipino delights, my favourite as always was the sweet longanisa and garlic rice. There was also an egg and pancake station where had to stop the kids from eating as our driver was already in reception, it was only 7:15am which was an absolute surprise as Filipinos are usually always late!! We were off to our first excursion and embarking on an island-hopping adventure in the pristine waters of Honda Bay. Each island we visit seems to be plucked from a postcard—powdery white sands, swaying palm trees, and crystalline waters teeming with marine life.
Our first stop was on a floating barge in deep waters surrounded by tropical fish. We arrived early so not too many people in the water. Armed with our fish food aka pandesal, a sweet breakfast bun and in we jumped! I have a confession to make at this stage….. I was soo excited that I didn’t’ think twice about the kids safety and forgot this was their first time to dive in deep waters, a quick check their life jackets were on correctly and in you get!! They were fine and definitely enjoyed themselves, school swimming lessons thank you!
We then travelled to Luli island for a quick visit and a couple of hundred or so jumps from the jumping shack about 5 metres above the water. Kids… life jacket check… your good off you go, jump away!
Next, we make our way to Cowrie Island, named for its resemblance to the shell of a cowrie. This place was absolutely beautiful. Family photo opportunity! Here, we indulge in a feast of fresh seafood and tropical fruits, savouring the flavours of the ocean while lounging beneath the shade of coconut trees. I'm reminded of the simple joys of island life.
Our final stop is Starfish Island, where the shallow waters were supposed to be home to a myriad of colourful starfish… we found 1! That was ok, had a touch and feel and more photos and then put it back in the water. Someone shouted… ‘put it on your face’… probably me but no one did… good kids! Me not to clever!
As the day draws to a close, we reluctantly bid farewell to the pristine shores of Honda Bay, our hearts full of memories and our spirits rejuvenated by the beauty of nature. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply a moment of tranquillity, Honda Bay offers an unforgettable escape into paradise. A fantastic day. Our tour was booked with a local agent Corazon Travel and Tours, great service and very flexible.
