West New Britain ProvinceThings to do

Things to do in West New Britain Province

  1. Baia Sportfishing Lodge

    Sportfishing enthusiasts will make a beeline for Baia Sportfishing Lodge, a reputable, high-standard fishing lodge in remote Baia that attracts Ernest Hemingway fans. It's run by Liamo Reef Resort in Kimbe. The numerous river systems are home to the infamous black bass and spot tail bass, and the neighbouring coral reefs are a playpen for reef and pelagic species, including tuna, wahoo, giant trevally, marlin and sailfish among the prime catches.

    There's a minimum stay of four nights. Prices include fishing gear, boat and guide, as well as transfers to Hoskins airport (about 4½ hours by boat).

    reviewed

  2. Kimbe

    Kimbe is the provincial headquarters and a major centre for palm-oil production. Although it has a seafront, it's a fairly unassuming town with no real interest for travellers. But there's Kimbe Bay. Ah, Kimbe Bay. With its unique seamounts capped with coral towers reaching the surface, it has earned its celebrity status among divers and snorkellers around the world. The marine biodiversity here is stunning, with more than 350 types of hard coral and 860 species of fish vying for your attention.

    reviewed

  3. Talasea

    Talasea is an active volcanic region set in a dramatic landscape. Lake Dakataua, at the tip, was formed in a colossal eruption in 1884. It's definitely worth seeing two WWII plane wrecks that lie partially disintegrated in the jungle near Talasea. There's a Mitchell B-25 Bomber and a Lockheed Vega Ventura - an impressive sight. As public transport is virtually non-existent, your best bet to visit Talasea and the Willaumez Peninsula is to arrange a tour through the Walindi Plantation Resort.

    reviewed

  4. San Remo Club

    We love this place - it feels so anachronistic. It's the most 'happening' spot in town, not far from Liam Reef Resort. Chat with old expats who are almost a fixture here, catch the breeze from the terrace, sip a cold beer while gazing on smouldering Mt Garbuna in the distance, or enjoy a well-prepared chicken schnitzel.

    reviewed

  5. Le Riche Colours

    It's worth stopping at Le Riche Colours if you're after some original souvenirs. Artist Nathalie Le Riche has very colourful hand-painted T-shirts, tribal stickers, gifts cards, placemats and other gifts that feature tribal portraits, market scenes and underwater compositions.

    reviewed

  6. dive centre

    Apart from the superb natural surroundings and rare birds, the main attraction here is the unsurpassable diving in Kimbe Bay. You might see anything from a tiny glass shrimp, to a pod of killer whales. The Walindi Plantation Resort has a very professional dive centre.

    reviewed

  7. Hoskins

    The picturesquely located 'major' airport of WNB is 40km east of Kimbe. There are a number of forested volcanoes surrounding town, including the active Mt Pago. Located a short distance inland, at Koimumu, there's an active geyser field.

    reviewed

  8. Garu Hot River

    If you need to relax, it's well worth dipping your toes in the Garu Hot River. Waters are comfortably warm and there's a mini-waterfall.

    reviewed

  9. trekking

    Outdoorsy types might consider trekking up the active Mt Garbuna. The area also offers excellent bird-watching possibilities.

    reviewed