Lonely Planet™ · Thorn Tree Forum · 2020

What is the ultimate house reef for snorkeling and staying on one island?

Country forums / Pacific Islands & Papua New Guinea

We've snorkeled all around Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, Banda.... Looking for the next best house reef to stay in one place and explore off the beach every day. Any suggestions or experiences? Somewhere in the Pacific Islands would be perfect!
Thanks!
Dancingdolphin

Blue Lagoon in Fiji gets my vote. The reef itself maybe isn't the most spectacular you'll encounter in the world, but still very good, and the overall experience there is amazing. There are also a number of other great reefs you can visit en route.

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Tikioki marine reserve in the SE corner of Rarotonga has a wonderful reefline, including small remnants of reef closer to shore. Very good snorkelling directly off the beachfront, or by lagoon cruise to the outer edge of the lagoon.

Wide range of accommodation in the immediate area including hostels, holiday rentals, and boutique resorts. The marine reserve is located 25 - 30 minutes drive from the international airport; approximately 12 kms away. Local bus service from accommodation anywhere around Rarotonga will get you alongside this marine reserve and others dotted around the island. Or hire a scooter and go as you please.

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Several of the "homestays" and resorts of Mansuar and Kri in the Raja Ampat Islands of Indonesia have probably the best "house reefs" I have seen anywhere. Better than Banda, and way better than anything I have seen east of PNG.

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