Things to Do in Milne Bay, Papuanewguinea

Milne Bay Province in Papua New Guinea is a pristine tropical paradise renowned for its world-class diving, rich WWII history, and vibrant marine biodiversity. The province encompasses numerous islands scattered across crystal-clear waters, including the main town of Alotau on the mainland and famous diving destinations like the D'Entrecasteaux Islands. This remote corner of the Pacific offers some of the planet's most spectacular underwater experiences, with pristine coral reefs, dramatic drop-offs, and an abundance of marine life that includes everything from tiny macro creatures to massive pelagic species. Beyond its underwater treasures, Milne Bay holds significant historical importance as a crucial battleground during World War II, where Allied forces achieved their first major land victory against the Japanese. Today, visitors can explore war relics, traditional villages, and experience the authentic Melanesian culture that remains largely unchanged by modern tourism. The region's remote location and limited infrastructure mean that tourism here focuses on quality over quantity, offering intimate encounters with nature and genuine cultural exchanges with local communities.

Top Things to Do in Milne Bay

World-Class Scuba Diving

Milne Bay offers some of the world's finest diving with incredible biodiversity, pristine coral reefs, and famous sites like the SS Taiei wreck. The waters here host an extraordinary variety of marine life including mandarin fish, walking sharks, and massive schools of barracuda. Visibility often exceeds 30 meters, making it a photographer's paradise.

Booking Tip: Book dive packages through established operators like Tawali Resort or Lissenung Island Resort, costing $80-150 per dive. Best diving is April-December with calmest conditions May-October. Look for PADI certified operators with good safety records and local knowledge.

WWII Historical Site Tours

Explore significant World War II battlefields and relics around Milne Bay, including crashed aircraft, bunkers, and memorials. The area was the site of the first major Allied land victory against Japanese forces in 1942. Many sites are accessible by boat or short hikes through jungle terrain.

Booking Tip: Arrange tours through local guides in Alotau for $50-100 per day including transport. Best visited during dry season (May-October) for easier access. Look for guides with historical knowledge and connections to local communities who witnessed the war.

Traditional Village Cultural Experiences

Visit authentic Melanesian villages to experience traditional customs, crafts, and daily life that has remained largely unchanged for generations. Participate in traditional ceremonies, learn about local customs, and witness skilled artisans creating traditional carvings and pottery. Many villages welcome visitors with traditional sing-sings (cultural performances).

Booking Tip: Arrange village visits through local tour operators or resorts for $30-60 per person including guide and transport. Always bring small gifts like school supplies or basic medicines. Contact villages in advance through local contacts to ensure appropriate timing and cultural sensitivity.

Island Hopping and Snorkeling

Explore the numerous pristine islands scattered throughout Milne Bay, each offering unique landscapes, secluded beaches, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. The clear waters provide easy access to colorful coral gardens and diverse marine life even for non-divers. Many islands feature traditional villages and historical sites.

Booking Tip: Charter boats through local operators for $200-400 per day depending on group size and destinations. Best conditions April-November with calmer seas. Look for operators with good boats, safety equipment, and knowledge of multiple islands and snorkel sites.

Jungle Trekking and Bird Watching

Trek through pristine rainforest to spot endemic bird species including birds of paradise, hornbills, and colorful parrots. The jungle trails also lead to hidden waterfalls, traditional gardens, and provide opportunities to learn about traditional plant uses from local guides. The biodiversity here is exceptional with many species found nowhere else on earth.

Booking Tip: Hire local guides through village contacts or tour operators for $40-80 per day. Best bird watching is early morning (5-9 AM) during dry season. Ensure guides have binoculars and field knowledge of local species and traditional plant uses.

Getting There

Reaching Milne Bay requires flying into Alotau Airport (GUR) via Port Moresby, with Air Niugini providing regular connections. International travelers typically fly into Port Moresby's Jacksons International Airport from Brisbane, Cairns, Manila, or Singapore, then take a domestic connection. Some dive resorts operate charter flights or have partnerships with airlines for package deals. Boat transfers from other parts of Papua New Guinea are possible but time-consuming and should be arranged well in advance through local operators.

Getting Around

Transportation in Milne Bay is primarily by boat, as most attractions are on islands or coastal areas accessible only by water. Local operators provide boat transfers, and many resorts include transportation in their packages. In Alotau, PMVs (public motor vehicles) and taxis are available for short distances, though service can be irregular. For exploring multiple islands or dive sites, chartering a boat with a local operator is the most practical option, and most activities include transportation as part of guided tours.

Where to Stay

Alotau Town Center

Tawali Resort Area

Lissenung Island

Samarai Island

East Cape

Milne Bay Lodge Area

Food & Dining

Dining options in Milne Bay are limited but focus on fresh seafood and local produce. Most visitors eat at their resort or lodge, which typically serve a mix of international cuisine and local specialties featuring fresh fish, tropical fruits, and traditional root vegetables. In Alotau, a few local restaurants serve Papua New Guinean dishes and basic international food. Many cultural tours include traditional meals prepared by village communities, offering authentic experiences with locally caught fish, sago, and tropical fruits. Resorts often arrange beach barbecues and can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Milne Bay is during the dry season from May to October, when rainfall is minimal, seas are calmer, and visibility for diving is at its best. This period offers the most reliable weather for boat transfers and outdoor activities. The wet season (November to April) brings higher rainfall and rougher seas, though diving is still possible and marine life remains abundant. Temperatures remain consistently warm year-round (24-30°C), and the wet season can offer better deals on accommodation, though some operators may have limited schedules due to weather conditions.

Insider Tips

Bring reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent as these items are expensive and hard to find locally

Pack a waterproof bag for boat transfers and keep important documents in multiple copies due to the marine environment

Learn a few words in Tok Pisin (the local lingua franca) as English proficiency varies outside of tourist facilities, and locals appreciate the effort

Things to Do in Milne Bay