Milne Bay Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Milne Bay with this comprehensive travel guide featuring must-visit attractions, activities, accommodations, and travel tips.


Introduction to Milne Bay

Milne Bay is a province located in the southeastern part of Papua New Guinea, known for its stunningly beautiful beaches, coral reefs, lagoons, and tropical rainforests. The region served as an important base for the Allies in World War II, and the remnants of that time can still be found in several museums, historical sites, and war relics scattered around the province. In addition to that, Milne Bay has a rich cultural heritage and is home to several indigenous tribes, whose fascinating traditions and customs are a must-see for any traveler.

List of Places to Visit in Milne Bay

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Massim Museum and Cultural Centre: This museum showcases the vibrant art, handicrafts, and culture of the Massim tribe, known for their intricate wood carvings and beautiful tapa cloths.

  • Alotau Cultural Festival: One of the most important cultural events of Milne Bay, this festival celebrates the diversity and richness of the local culture through dance, music, food, and other traditional practices.

  • Kwato Church: Built in 1907 by the London Missionary Society, this beautiful church is a fine example of the fusion between European and local architectural styles, and also served as a refuge for Allied soldiers during the war.

Natural Attractions of Milne Bay: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tufi Dive Resort: This world-renowned resort is a paradise for divers and snorkelers, with its clear waters and rich marine life that includes colorful fish, corals, and even sharks.

  • Misima Island: This stunningly beautiful island boasts of crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush tropical forests, and is a popular spot for activities such as kayaking, hiking, and bird-watching.

  • Deidei Hot Springs: Surrounded by dense rainforests, these natural hot springs are a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation, with their warm waters and scenic surroundings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Milne Bay

Mt. Trafalgar

Located in the northern end of the Woodlark Islands, Mt Trafalgar is the highest point of the islands at 1000m. This is a challenging hike but the view from the top is worth it.

Kiriwina Island

This route involves cycling around the small island of Kiriwina while soaking in the beautiful scenery of the island. This can be done either through privately conducted tours or rented bikes.

Best Things to Do in Milne Bay: Activities and Tours

  • Milne Bay Canoe and Kite Surfing: For the adventure seekers, try kayaking or kite surfing through the crystal clear waters of Milne Bay while taking in the beautiful views.

  • Boat tours to the Trobriand Islands: Take a boat tour to explore the beautiful Trobriand Islands, which are known for their pristine beaches and vibrant traditional culture.

  • War Relics and History Tours: Visit the various war relics and historical areas which hold a significant place in Milne Bay’s history such as the Battle of Milne Bay Memorial, Turnbull Naval Base, and several other war cemeteries.

Week-Long Itinerary for Milne Bay

Day Activity Description
Day 1 Arrival & Relaxation Check-in at your hotel and relax for the day
Day 2 Historical & Cultural Tour Take a tour of the Massim Museum, Kwato Church and other cultural sites
Day 3 Tufi Dive Resort Take a day trip to Tufi Dive Resort and enjoy snorkelling and diving
Day 4 Deidei Hot Springs Enjoy the Deidei hot springs
Day 5 Boat Tour to Trobriand Islands Take a tour of the Trobriand Islands, known for their traditional culture and craft
Day 6 Hiking and biking Take on either the Mt Trafalgar hike or the Kiriwina Island biking Hike
Day 7 Departure Check out of the hotel and depart

Food and Drink Scene of Milne Bay

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poisson Cru: A traditional dish made with raw fish, grated coconut, lime juice, and spices, that is a staple of the local cuisine.

  • Roast Suckling Pig: Another traditional dish that is a favorite of the locals, especially during festivals and celebrations.

  • Kumara and Taro: These starchy root vegetables are a common ingredient in many dishes in Milne Bay and are often served roasted, boiled, or mashed.

Local Beverages

  • Coconut Milk: A popular refreshing drink made with fresh coconut, which is a great thirst-quencher on hot days.

  • Double-Brewed Coffee: This strong and flavorful coffee is made by brewing the roasted beans twice and is a favorite of the locals.

Where to Stay in Milne Bay: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Tawali Resort: A luxurious resort situated on a secluded bay, surrounded by lush tropical forests and offering stunning ocean views and amenities such as a spa, diving center, and restaurant.

  • Alotau International Hotel: A comfortable hotel located in the heart of Alotau, with easy access to the cultural attractions, beaches, and other tourist amenities of the town.

  • Masurina Lodge: A budget-friendly guesthouse offering comfortable rooms and friendly service, and located close to the airport and other transportation hubs.

What to Buy in Milne Bay: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Tapa Cloth: Handmade cloth made from the inner bark of the mulberry tree, decorated with intricate designs and patterns that represent the culture and traditions of Milne Bay.

  • Wood Carvings: Intricately-carved wooden statues, masks, and other objects that depict the flora, fauna, and mythology of the region.

  • Shell Jewelry: Beautifully-crafted jewelry made from shells, including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, that are popular with both locals and tourists.

Local Culture and Customs of Milne Bay

Milne Bay is home to several indigenous tribes, each with their unique cultural practices and traditions. It is considered impolite to visit any village or community without first seeking permission and observing the local customs. Visitors are expected to dress modestly, remove their shoes before entering any house or place of worship, and refrain from taking photographs without consent.

Best Time to Visit Milne Bay

The best time to visit Milne Bay is during the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is pleasant and the water is clear for snorkeling, diving, and other water activities. The wet season, from November to April, can be quite humid and rainy, with occasional cyclones and rough seas that may disrupt travel plans.

Do’s and Don’ts of Milne Bay

Do:

  • Seek permission before entering any village or community.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Dress modestly and appropriately.
  • Hire a local guide for cultural tours and activities.

Don’t:

  • Take photographs without consent.
  • Disrespect or damage any natural or cultural landmarks.
  • Wear shoes inside any house or place of worship.
  • Litter or leave trash around.

Safety and Health

Safety in Milne Bay

Milne Bay is a safe and friendly province, but visitors are advised to exercise caution and common sense, especially in the more remote and rural areas. Be aware of your surroundings, keep your valuables safe, and avoid going out alone at night.

Health in Milne Bay

Visitors to Milne Bay should take precautions against common tropical diseases such as malaria, typhoid, and dengue. It is recommended to drink only bottled or purified water, use insect repellent, and seek medical attention if any symptoms arise. It is also advisable to consult your doctor about any necessary vaccines before traveling to Papua New Guinea.

Getting to Milne Bay: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Milne Bay

The closest airport to Milne Bay is the Gurney Airport, located in Alotau, which is served by several domestic airlines with regular flights to Port Moresby.

Bus Stations Near Milne Bay

There are no major bus stations in Milne Bay, but several private operators offer bus and taxi services between the major towns and attractions.

Other Options

Ferries and boats are also popular modes of transportation in Milne Bay, both for inter-island travel and for tours and sightseeing.

How to Get Around in Milne Bay

Public transportation options in Milne Bay are limited, but several private taxi and bus services are available for hire. Renting a car or motorbike is also a viable option, but visitors are advised to be cautious and aware of the local traffic rules and conditions.

Where to Go Next from Milne Bay: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Port Moresby: The capital city of Papua New Guinea, with its bustling markets, museums, and cultural attractions, is a worthy destination for any traveler.

  • Kokoda Trail: A challenging yet rewarding trek through the rugged mountain terrain of Papua New Guinea, tracing the historic trail used by Allied soldiers during World War II.

  • Great Barrier Reef: Located just off the coast of Australia, this natural wonder is a must-see for any diving and snorkeling enthusiast, and can be reached through several domestic and international airlines.

Conclusion

Milne Bay is a destination that has something to offer to every kind of traveler, from pristine beaches and striking natural scenery to rich cultural heritage and fascinating history. With this comprehensive travel guide, your trip to Milne Bay is sure to be a memorable and rewarding experience that you will cherish for a lifetime.

A village on Fergusson Island in Milne Bay Province A village on Fergusson Island in Milne Bay Province


    Louisiade Archipelago
    Trobriand Islands