Best dive sites in Papua New Guinea
Oceania · Melanesia / Pacific · 2 dive sites reviewed · best May–Nov
Papua New Guinea lies at the eastern edge of the Coral Triangle, with vast, largely unexplored reef and wall systems in the Bismarck Sea. Kimbe Bay is the signature area, prized for pristine corals, sharks, and rich macro life. Diving here is wild and adventurous, typically by liveaboard, with limited infrastructure and truly remote sites.
Diving in Papua New Guinea: the essentials
We've ranked 2 dive sites in Papua New Guinea, averaging 3.5/5 across the set. Our top pick, Kimbe Bay, scores 3.6/5 — Wall-and-reef diving with visibility up to 25 m, liveaboard access — a strong choice for experienced divers..
Conditions are strongest in May–Nov.
A realistic travel budget in Papua New Guinea works out to about $208/day per person — see the cost breakdown below for the full picture.
Local food
Mumu (an earth-oven feast) along with sago, local fish and tropical fruit.
Local culture
Papua New Guinea has over 800 languages and deeply local tribal customs. Travel guided, dress modestly, and always ask before taking photos.
Typical travel cost
Average daily cost per person
Source: BudgetYourTrip — real traveler expenses, not a fixed rate.
Kimbe Bay
Wall-and-reef diving with visibility up to 25 m, liveaboard access — a strong choice for experienced divers.
