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The Best Luxury Resorts in Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Escaping to a remote island in Raja Ampat doesnt prevent you from pampering yourself with a stay at a luxury hotel
Escaping to a remote island in Raja Ampat doesn't prevent you from pampering yourself with a stay at a luxury hotel | © Kos Picture Source Ltd / Alamy Stock Photo

You came all the way to Raja Ampat for its justifiably lauded marine park. But that doesn’t mean you have to rough it on this archipelago in West Papua, Indonesia. The luxury hotel scene here embraces dinky eco-bungalows and overwater homestays – meaning you can snorkel or dive in one of the most stunning underwater environments in the world, before retreating to a luxe lodging that works with the natural beauty of the area. Here are the pick of the bunch.

Agusta Eco Resort

Resort

Bungalows on white sandy beach at Agusta Eco
Courtesy of Agusta Eco Resort / Expedia

This homely resort sits on pint-sized Agusta, one of more than 1,500 islands in Raja Ampat. Bungalows blend local woods and stones, and all grant access to an inviting pool and restaurant. A particular highlight here is the staff, who have stacked up heaps of positivity for their warm, proficient service and professional snorkelling tours.

Meridian Adventure Marina Club and Resort

Resort

Outdoor swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers at Meridian Adventure Marina Club & Resort
Courtesy of Meridian Adventure Marina Club and Resort / Expedia

Boating enthusiasts may be familiar with Meridian Adventure, since it homes the only marina in Raja Ampat. For the rest of us, the resort is a great home base, offering accommodation that ranges from rustic, overwater homestays to modern-feeling, land-based rooms. There’s a distinct emphasis on activities here, ranging from paddleboarding to PADI classes.

Cove Eco Resort, Yeben Island

Resort

A sunbather lies on a shallow boat floating into the ocean at Cove Eco Resort, West Papua
Courtesy of Cove Eco Resort / Expedia

Cove Eco Resort is probably the closest you’ll get to your own private island. The iconic property is perched on the pristine shores of Yeben Island, which is remote even by Raja Ampat standards. Nevertheless, an on-site dive centre means getting among the local sea life is a breeze. And you can wind down by strolling the private beach and gardens, before dinner at the fusion restaurant.

Waiwo Dive Resort, Waigeo

Resort

Simple twin room at Waiwo Dive Resort, Waigeo
Courtesy of Waiwo Dive Resort, Waigeo / Expedia

This dive resort occupies one of the most beautiful spots on Waigeo Island, the largest in the Papuan archipelago. The seemingly humble façade and wooden decor doesn’t mean a drop in standards – there are air-conditioned rooms, a luxury in developing Raja Ampat, relaxing massages and a fine Indonesian restaurant.

Papua Paradise Eco Resort, Arefi Birie Island

Resort

Oceanside bungalows with sun loungers on the waters edge at Papua Paradise Eco Resort, West Papua
Courtesy of Papua Paradise Eco Resort / Expedia

Papau Paradise has a distinct mixture of energy and tranquillity, which serves you well for fun days on the water and wind-down afternoons in the airy waterfront bungalows. The simple interiors and lavish facilities are more than enough to make you feel at home, complemented by a high standard of service. Each bungalow has a private balcony where you can laze in a hammock or daybed with an ocean view.

Misool Eco Resort, Misool

Resort, Hotel

Oceanside bungalows at Misool Eco Resort, Raja Ampat, West Papua, Indonesia
© BIOSPHOTO / Alamy Stock Photo

An ideal position in a horseshoe lagoon on Misool Island is a luxury in itself. And, surrounded by the stunning shoreline where clear white and blue meet, you can enjoy idyllic beauty from the balcony of your private villa. Beyond the luxurious and comfortable wooden huts, Misool Eco Resort is an exclusive diving hub with various water activities. While for the hours you feel like lazing around there are traditional spa treatments and on-site activities to enjoy.

Raja Ampat Dive Resort

Resort

Bungalows hidden amongst the trees in a jungle at Raja Ampat Dive Resort
Courtesy of Raja Ampat Dive Resort / Booking.com

Raja Ampat Dive Resort is excellent for those who take comfort seriously. Stunning wooden bungalows are perched on the sea, overlooking endless shades of blues, with a private terrace and stairs descending into the ocean. The open, airy interior induces a sense of tranquillity, while also providing everything you need for a comfortable stay. This resort also has a dive centre catering for beginners and pros.

Papua Explorers Dive Resort

Resort, Hotel

Restaurant on the waterfront at the Papua Explorers Resort, Gam, Raja Ampat, west Papua, Indonesia
© mauritius images GmbH / Alamy Stock Photo

The eco-friendly approach at Papua Explorers does not make this resort any less luxurious. The airy bungalows are built in a traditional Papuan style, although they do come with modern comforts and amenities. There’s an enticing over-water restaurant on stilts, plus an open-air spa with massage tables. The hotel team can also arrange special trips and adventures, such as hiking, birdwatching and more.

Sorido Bay Resort, Kri Island

Resort

Aerial of Kri Island, Kri Eco Resort and Sorido Bay Resort.
© Nature Picture Library / Alamy Stock Photo

The cottages and bungalows at Sorido Bay not only boast stunning sea views, they also pay homage to the local culture through traditional building styles and decor. A stay here means getting into nature, whether that’s a dive at Manta Point – a cleaning station for giant rays – or a sunset birdwatching cruise to see the red bird-of-paradise, hornbills and parrots. Unwind with a traditional massage at the on-site spa.

The Culture Trip Travel Team contributed additional reporting to this article.

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