Misool
Pulau Misool
A pristine hidden corner in southern Raja Ampat, with a heart-shaped lagoon, prehistoric rock art and world-class dive sites covered in soft corals.
Misool is the southernmost of Raja Ampat's four main islands, surrounded by extensive karst islets and marine protected areas. It sees far fewer visitors than the north and retains its pristine character. Highlights include a bird's-eye view of a heart-shaped lagoon (from viewpoints such as Harfat Jaya); ochre handprints and animal rock art on sea cliffs thousands of years old; and dive sites known as the “soft coral paradise,” where you may see schools of fish, pygmy seahorses and manta rays. The southern waters have no-take zones co-managed by the local community and resort operators, and the marine ecology is excellent. Getting there: take a boat from Sorong for about 4–5 hours, or join a liveaboard trip. Accommodation is mainly high-end eco-resorts, and it's best to plan at least three nights.
Opening hours
Daytime (per boat or resort schedule)