Best Hidden Snorkelling Spots in Indonesia's Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat is a haven for snorkellers. Everywhere you look, there’s a whole world under the water. Located in the Coral Triangle of Southeast Asia, the area boasts some of the most biodiverse marine life and coral reefs. It is widely considered one of the best snorkelling destinations in Indonesia, and arguably in the world.

If you dream of going snorkelling in Raja Ampat, here are some of the best underwater spots you can go to.

Snorkelling in Yenbuba 

Visiting Yenbuba is like stepping into another world. Living up to its nickname, the Fishbowl, this spot is like a giant bowl filled with colourful fish. There are so many species of fish, from the small ones to the big ones. You can float there peacefully, surrounded by these amazing underwater creatures.

Swimming in Kapatcol

The snorkelling site of Kapatcol is a fantastic playground for underwater photographers. Colourful corals grow everywhere, from the shallows to the deep areas, where you can find groups of fusiliers, silversides, and sometimes moray eels outside of their dens. 

Hiriuli below the surface

Hiriuli is a perfect place for beach time where you can relax under the warm sunlight or enjoy a nice beach party. But the most fascinating part is the underwater world around the area. Once you jump into the water, you will encounter tons of fish swimming around in all sorts of colours, making it like a real-life underwater party. 

What marine life can you encounter snorkelling in Raja Ampat

Once you jump into the water, be prepared to encounter lots of marine species. Below Raja Ampat’s water surface lies 75% of the world’s coral species, 13 marine mammal species, 5 of 7 sea turtle species, and over 1000 fish species. 

The moment you plunge into the water, you’ll always be able to float on the water’s surface, surrounded by a school of colourful fish. 

If you’re lucky, you can encounter iconic species like Manta Rays, Whale Sharks, Sea Turtles, and rare sightings like the Epaulette Shark. 

What to bring when snorkelling in Raja Ampat 

When you join an active Indonesia cruise with On Water Expeditions, you don’t have to rent or bring your snorkelling gear as everything you need for the activity is provided, including snorkelling masks and fins in various sizes for you to pick.

Apart from the snorkelling equipment, make sure to pack:

• Reef-safe sunscreen: Once you go snorkelling, you will spend a lot of time in the sun. Using sunscreen will help protect your skin from sunburn. Make sure you use reef-safe sunscreen so you can enjoy snorkelling without harming the corals. If you don’t have one, there is no need to worry, because we also provide reef-safe sunscreen on the boat. 
• Swimwear: Pack your comfortable swimwear. You can bring more than one, so you have an extra while waiting for the other one to dry. 
• Camera gear: Raja Ampat is heaven for underwater photographer enthusiasts. You might want to document all your experiences and the beautiful things you find under the water surface of Raja Ampat, so pack some underwater or waterproof cases to capture the stunning marine life.

Best time to snorkel in Raja Ampat 

Every place in Raja Ampat is available for visiting all year round, but the best time to snorkel in Raja Ampat is during the dry season, from October to January.