West New Britain,
a weekend in Kimbe Bay!
West New Britain
and its biodiversity-rich bay
Where Volcanoes Meet the Sea
West New Britain Province stretches along the northwestern coast of New Britain Island, a rugged land shaped by volcanic activity, dense rainforest, and pristine coral reefs. Known for its biodiversity and remote beauty, the province is home to the imposing Mount Ulawun — one of Papua New Guinea’s most active volcanoes — and the spectacular Kimbe Bay, a global hotspot for marine life. The provincial capital, Kimbe, is a lively town that thrives on palm oil production and fishing, surrounded by lush greenery and volcanic peaks in the distance. Inland, thick jungle gives way to fertile agricultural land, while the coastline reveals vibrant coral gardens, secluded beaches, and warm waters perfect for diving and snorkeling.
The province remains relatively off the beaten track for tourists, which adds to its charm: it feels wild, welcoming, and wonderfully untouched.
For nature lovers, birdwatchers, divers, and curious travelers alike, West New Britain offers a compelling mix of natural splendor and cultural authenticity. Whether you’re heading inland for a river soak, exploring offshore reefs, or just sitting under the shade of a frangipani tree, the province invites you to slow down, look closely, and feel connected to the earth — and sea — beneath your feet.
Easter Escape:
A Family Weekend in Kimbe Bay
For the Easter break in 2022, we flew out of Port Moresby with a group of Australian friends, bound for West New Britain — a region we had heard much about but had yet to explore. After a short flight across the Solomon Sea, we landed on the island of New Britain and made our way to the coast of Kimbe Bay. The journey was a bit rough in places, but the reward was immediate: a peaceful resort surrounded by lush greenery, right on the water’s edge.
Over just a few days, we managed to fit in a surprising number of experiences. We swam and snorkeled in warm, clear waters, explored the coastline by kayak, and took time to relax by the pool between outings. One of the most memorable moments was attending Easter Sunday mass in a nearby village, where a Polish priest celebrated with a joyful and welcoming community. We also visited a geothermal river tucked into the forest — a natural hot spring where we soaked and let the world slow down for a while.
It was a short trip, but a rich one. Nature, culture, and time shared with friends combined to create a true sense of escape.
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Snorkeling
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Diving
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Traditional canoe
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Swimming
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Boat trip
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Cultural exchange
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Bird Watching
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Hiking
Our stay at Walindi Plantation Resort was a truly memorable experience, where each day offered a new way to enjoy the natural beauty of Kimbe Bay. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed into a peaceful setting: a quiet beach fringed by palm trees, vibrant tropical gardens, and a central pool area nestled between the bar and restaurant — the perfect place to unwind.
We stayed in a lovely traditional-style bungalow, made from local materials and surrounded by flowering trees. It was a tranquil retreat where the only sounds were birdsong and the gentle rhythm of the waves.
In addition to moments of pure relaxation, we also made the most of the exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities in the bay — a true underwater paradise, rich with marine life and vibrant coral.
On Easter Sunday, we attended mass in a nearby village, joining a warm and spirited celebration with local families and a visiting Polish priest. It was a simple but moving moment of connection.
The next day, we ventured inland to bathe in the Garu Hot River, a geothermal stream heated by the island’s volcanic activity. At over 40°C, it felt like a natural spa hidden in the heart of the jungle.
We ran out of time before we could hike Mount Garbuna, the island’s active volcano — a trek that would have taken a full day. Still, even without reaching the summit, we felt like we had discovered something special.
Though our trip was short, it offered the perfect escape — a blend of nature, culture, and calm that left us wanting just a bit more.
Bungalows set
in a beautiful garden
Beachfront
resort
Terrace overlooking
the beach
Pool at the heart
of the resort
Access to
Kimbe Bay
Historic
wrecks
Diving into the Wonders
of Kimbe Bay
We experienced some truly extraordinary moments during our dives and snorkeling sessions in Kimbe Bay—a stunning jewel tucked away in the Bismarck Sea, off the northern coast of New Britain Island. Known for having some of the best dive spots in Papua New Guinea, this bay gifted us with unforgettable adventures.
I had the chance to dive over a breathtaking bommie—a dome-shaped coral formation—where I witnessed an explosion of marine biodiversity. Later, I “flew” over a sunken Japanese Mitsubishi Zero fighter plane, the same model used during the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941. It was a powerful brush with history. Local legend has it that the pilot survived. As we surfaced from the dive, villagers from a nearby community greeted us from a traditional canoe—an authentic and heartwarming encounter that added to the magic of the place.
Meanwhile, Marie-Alix and the kids were off living their own dream: swimming with dolphins! An experience that, by all accounts, was absolutely unforgettable.
Later on, as a family, we headed out into open waters for a unique snorkeling session. Even the little ones—just 3 and 4 years old—jumped right in without hesitation. It was one of those rare and precious moments where everything feels just right.
Unexpected Encounters:
Birds and Hot Springs
One afternoon, an unexpected proposal piques our curiosity: birdwatching. Our guide, Joseph, has an incredible gift—he can identify each bird by its song alone, naming the species without hesitation. Along with our friends, we set off on this unexpected adventure. The path proves to be a real challenge, as our van lurches through the bumpy terrain of a palm grove. The children hold on tightly.
After a bumpy ride, we finally reach our destination and stop. Before us stretches a breathtaking panorama of rolling green hills and lush forest.
Using a special whistle, Joseph expertly mimics the calls of distant birds. While we struggle to spot them, the scene unfolding around us is simply mesmerizing. We become acutely aware of how lucky we are to witness such extraordinary biodiversity up close.
Another day, we’re offered a surprise of a different kind: a dip in water heated to over 40°C—a natural open-air hammam. The muddy bed of the Garu Hot River is said to have soothing benefits for the skin. It’s both a revitalizing and deeply relaxing experience!
