Papua Paradise Eco Resort

Perched on the edge of Birie Island in what is one of the world’s most biodiverse marine regions, Papua Paradise Resort is an eco-sensitive accommodation choice for a Raja Ampat dive vacation. The sustainably-built, overwater bungalows offer unparalleled views of the stunning natural setting, with countless dive sites just a short boat ride away.

In addition to boasting more than 1,300 species of reef fish and countless other weird and wonderful marine creatures, the archipelago is home to the magnificent bird of paradise. Papua Paradise Resort offers plenty of activities to keep non-divers entertained, with an ethos that is centred around conservation.

Papua Paradise Resort features 26 architecturally-inspired, over-water bungalows made using locally-sourced and sustainable materials. Natural ventilation is provided by attractive louvre windows, with pedestal fans, coffee/tea making facilities and desks also supplied.

Superior Bungalows Each of the 16 Superior Bungalows is spaciously designed, with plenty of natural light pouring in. They feature queen-size beds, private bathrooms and verandahs equipped with sun beds and a hammock where you can watch the marine comings and goings in the water below.

Deluxe Bungalows The 10 elegant Deluxe Bungalows feature glass doors leading onto a double-tier verandah where you can soak up the panoramic views and unforgettable sunsets. They feature king-size, four-poster beds and private bathrooms, as well as a daybed and teak wood furnishings.

Fronting a long stretch of house reef, Papua Paradise Resort is surrounded by towering trees and natural jungle that attracts a myriad of tropical birds. Snorkel directly off your private verandah or explore one of the walking trails through the wilderness that surrounds this Raja Ampat dive resort.

You can relax in the comfortable lounge with a good book or take advantage of the free satellite Wi-Fi that’s available at the dive center. This Raja Ampat resort is also home to the Spa in Paradise sanctuary where you can experience a range of traditional massage techniques and Ayurvedic treatments from across Southeast Asia.

Overlooking the house reef, the Seaview Restaurant is the main communal hub of Papua Paradise Resort. A variety of European and Indonesian dishes are served during buffet breakfasts, lunches and dinners, all of which utilize locally grown and sourced produce wherever possible. All of the bread, yogurt and cakes are made on-site in the resort kitchen, as is the delicious pasta and ravioli. Soft drinks and local beers can be bought at the resort, although it’s recommended that guests bring their own wine and liquor with them.

One of only a handful of PADI dive operators in Raja Ampat, Gangga Divers is the resident dive shop at Papua Paradise Resort. In addition to daily dive trips, they offer numerous PADI dive courses that are led by their professional instructors. Their dive facility is equipped with washtubs and drying facilities for all your dive equipment while there’s an excellent choice of marine books for fish identification.

A full line of well-maintained Aqualung dive gear is available for rent, with 8,12 and 15-litre aluminum tanks provided (both INT and DIN). Nitrox is available free of charge for certified divers while underwater photographers can take advantage of the air-conditioned camera room.

Each of the dive vessels has been purpose-built for diving, with marine safety equipment, VHF radios, oxygen and first aid kits. They maintain a group dive ratio of four guests to one guide to ensure the best dive experience possible, with a high emphasis on safety in and out of the water.

Diving in Raja Ampat gives you the opportunity to explore one of the most biodiverse marine regions in the world, with at least 75% of all global coral species found here. Be surrounded by large schools of fish while sighting eels, turtles and sharks, together with fascinating macro creatures such as seahorses and pipefish.

Water temperatures vary between 82-86°F (28-30°C) throughout the year and most divers prefer a 3mm wetsuit with an optional hood. The peak Raja Ampat dive season extends from November to May when wobbegong sharks and schooling barracuda can be seen, with mid-June to mid-September generally the windiest and wettest months.

If you’re travelling with non-divers, there’s no shortage of activities to keep them busy, including snorkelling on the house reef and kayaking around the island. Papua Paradise Resort also conducts village tours and bird watching trips around the resort and to the surrounding islands. Spot the colourful Wilson’s Bird of Paradise or Red Bird of Paradise on guided walks and go hiking to the beautiful Batanta Island waterfall.

You can discover the local culture and lifestyle of Raja Ampat on a visit to the small fishing village of Arefi or embark on a full-day trip to the Passage and Mushrooms Islands. Alternatively, venture further afield for a full-day dive and snorkel trip to the Fam Islands, including a walk up to the famous Fam Islands viewpoint.