Amat Bay, Indonesia, is the home of five of the world’s most beautiful coral reefs home to a wealth of marine life, including manta rays and whale sharks. These reefs are also a vibrant hot spot for tourism that allows visitors to explore this pristine region both above and below the water. Here are the most intriguing sites you can visit in Raja Ampat from East to West!
Amat Bay National Marine Park
This area encompasses over 70 islands in Raja Ampat and is considered one of the best places for divers across the globe. There are over 290 species found here, which include 164 fish, 76 sponges, 26 corals, and 565 individual invertebrates. Those interested in snorkeling can explore the surface reefs and dive below the surface in search of manta rays. Whale sharks are a regular sighting here, and sightings of giant trevally and barracuda are also not uncommon.
Unes Reef
This top diving site offers great visibility, marine life, and an array of colorful corals. Visitors will find this is home to over 640 fish species, including 17 reef species such as the clownfish, triggerfish, butterflyfish, snake eels, and others that live on coral reefs.
Pura Asmat
This site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the northwest corner of Raja Ampat. Visitors can find this one of the top snorkeling destinations in Indonesia due to the abundance of marine life and coral reefs. Snorkeling here is excellent, with visibility that allows you to see fish, impressive coral formations, and lush tropical forests near shore. This place is a great spot to relax while exploring Raja Ampat’s offerings.
Beis Lhakhang
This temple was once on the outskirts of Dompo Town in West Papua province, now, it is located at the main port area in Raja Ampat. The building was made in the form of a dragon and is home to many statues and several traditional ceremonial items. Visitors can explore this underwater wonderland with its pristine reefs and abundant marine life.
Kri Island
This is the largest of all the islands in Raja Ampat and is also home to most Malay people in the area. This island is noted for its diverse offerings, including beaches, mangroves, coral reefs, fresh fish markets, and snorkeling spots. In reality, more than ten main snorkeling locations here offer clear waters overgrown with colorful corals and artificial reefs.
These sites are a few of the many you can explore in Raja Ampat during your next vacation. However, always check with operators and locals before venturing out on your own to ensure safety.
