Walindi Plantation Resort
West New Britain
Walindi Plantation Resort, established in 1983 by the Benjamin family, is nestled on the shores of Kimbe Bay in West New Britain, Papua New Guinea. It is celebrated for its outstanding marine biodiversity, hosting over half of the world's coral species, making it a premier destination for scuba diving, snorkeling, and freediving. The resort features 20 accommodation units including ocean view bungalows and garden view plantation house rooms, providing a comfortable and intimate setting for guests. Beyond marine activities, Walindi offers terrestrial experiences such as bird watching, World War II history tours, village visits, thermal hot river swimming, and volcano climbs, highlighting the rich cultural and natural heritage of the region. The resort emphasizes environmental education and conservation, implementing strong policies like the exclusive use of permanent marine moorings to protect delicate ecosystems. Community engagement is integral to its operation, fostering respectful collaboration with local traditional resource owners. Walindi also links with liveaboard dive boats, expanding access to remote dive sites. With a legacy spanning three generations, the resort balances luxury with sustainability, inviting visitors to explore the unique biodiversity and culture of Papua New Guinea's Kimbe Bay.
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Tip: The best time to visit Walindi Plantation Resort is during the dry season when sea conditions are ideal for diving and snorkeling. Booking dive packages and accommodation in advance is recommended due to the resort's popularity. Visitors can benefit from community-supported tours and conservation programs, often offered at discounted rates. Bringing appropriate diving certification and gear ensures a seamless experience. Engaging in land tours and bird watching excursions provides a diversified itinerary beyond water activities. The resort’s environmental policies encourage responsible tourism, so guests should respect guidelines such as using only designated mooring points and minimizing ecological impact.
Interesting facts
- •Walindi Plantation Resort provides access to Kimbe Bay, which hosts over half of the world's coral species, making it a global biodiversity hotspot.
- •The resort strictly uses permanent marine moorings at dive sites to prevent damage to coral reefs, showcasing its commitment to environmental conservation.
- •The Benjamin family, founders of Walindi, have been involved in Papua New Guinea for over 55 years, pioneering scuba diving in Kimbe Bay.
- •Walindi offers unique land tours including World War II history explorations and thermal hot river swimming, connecting visitors with local culture and natural wonders.
History
Walindi Plantation Resort was founded in 1983 by Max and Cecilie Benjamin, who were inspired by the rich marine biodiversity of Kimbe Bay after a diving holiday abroad in 1978.
Over the decades, the resort evolved from a small family venture into a well-established eco-tourism destination, now spanning three generations of the Benjamin family.
It has played a key role in pioneering scuba diving in the region and promoting marine conservation.
The resort's development paralleled increased awareness of environmental protection and community involvement in Papua New Guinea's tourism sector.
Today, Walindi remains a leader in sustainable tourism practices, balancing growth with ecological stewardship and cultural respect.
Place Guide
Ocean View Bungalows
Comfortable accommodation units offering stunning views of Kimbe Bay, designed to immerse guests in the natural beauty of the marine environment.
Garden View Plantation House Rooms
Rooms surrounded by lush tropical gardens, providing a tranquil retreat with easy access to resort facilities and nature trails.
Dive Sites of Kimbe Bay
A variety of dive sites accessible from the resort, featuring vibrant coral reefs, diverse fish species, and unique seamount formations rising from deep waters.
Land Tours and Cultural Visits
Excursions exploring local villages, World War II historical sites, bird watching hotspots, and thermal hot river swimming locations.
Contact
Phone: 7234 8460