Kabui Bay

Kabui Bay The Enchanted Gateway to Raja Ampat

A Serene Maze of Limestone Towers, Hidden Bays, and Ancient Mysteries

Kabui Bay is one of Raja Ampat’s most atmospheric landscapes—a tranquil expanse of emerald water framed by towering limestone cliffs and dense tropical rainforest. Located between Waigeo and Gam Island, Kabui Bay blends dramatic scenery with cultural history, making it the perfect starting point for any Raja Ampat journey. This is where the archipelago first reveals its magic.

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About Kabui Bay Limestone Isles, Ancient Caves & Timeless Waters

Kabui Bay is one of Raja Ampat's most atmospheric landscapes—a tranquil expanse of emerald water framed by towering limestone cliffs and dense tropical rainforest. Located between Waigeo and Gam Island, Kabui Bay blends dramatic scenery with cultural history, making it the perfect starting point for any Raja Ampat journey.

Kabui Bay stretches across a wide, sheltered inlet filled with small karst islands, secret channels, calm lagoons, and mangrove-lined shores. Protected from ocean swells, the bay is known for its smooth, glass-like water—ideal for slow exploration by yacht, kayak, or tender boat.

Kabui Bay
1-2
Hours from Waisai
1,000+
Years Old Rock Art

Hidden Karst Channels

Narrow limestone corridors that feel like entering a natural cathedral.

The Kabui Bay Rock Paintings

Ancient handprints and symbols preserved on vertical cliff walls—one of the region's most important archaeological sites.

Calm, Protected Waters

Perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and relaxed yacht cruising.

The Passage (Kabui Strait)

A legendary narrow waterway once explored by Alfred Wallace, rich in marine life and mangrove scenery.

Rainforest & Birdlife

Home to hornbills, parrots, and coastal wildlife thriving along the limestone cliffs.

Getting to Kabui Bay A Smooth Journey into Raja Ampat's Inner Sanctuary

Getting to Kabui Bay

Kabui Bay sits between Waigeo and Gam Island, making it one of the most accessible destinations in Raja Ampat. Only 1–2 hours from Waisai by yacht.

Calm seas and sheltered passages make it ideal for families and first-time visitors. The bay's narrow channels and shallow zones are best explored using a tender boat or kayak. Kabui Bay is often the first major stop for central Raja Ampat itineraries due to its calm waters and rich atmosphere.

From Waisai

1–2 hours by yacht

The easiest and most common access route. Calm seas and sheltered passages make this journey comfortable for all guests.

Tender Boat & Kayak

Best for exploring channels

The bay's narrow passages and shallow lagoons are ideally explored by small tender boats or kayak.

Top Experiences in Kabui Bay

CULTURAL HERITAGE

Exploring the Kabui Rock Paintings

Ancient handprints and motifs on limestone cliffs—a rare cultural and historical treasure.

Difficulty: Easy Duration: 30–45 minutes
ADVENTURE

Cruising Through Karst Channels

Navigate through narrow, dramatic passages surrounded by towering rock formations.

Difficulty: Easy Duration: 1–2 hours
NATURE

The Passage (Kabui Strait)

A lush, mangrove-lined waterway known for soft corals, macro life, and calm kayaking routes.

Difficulty: Easy Duration: 2–3 hours
WATER SPORTS

Kayaking & Paddleboarding

Smooth water surfaces make Kabui Bay one of the best spots for peaceful paddling.

Difficulty: Easy Duration: 1–3 hours
SNORKELING

Snorkeling in Quiet Coral Gardens

Discover soft corals, sea fans, macro creatures, and gentle reef slopes.

Difficulty: Easy Duration: 1–2 hours
WILDLIFE

Birdwatching & Rainforest Scenery

Spot hornbills, parrots, and coastal birds nesting on the cliffside forest.

Difficulty: Easy Duration: Throughout the day

Kabui Bay on Our Itineraries

Kabui Bay features in many of our central Raja Ampat expeditions, including:

Dampier Strait Explorer

INCLUDES Kabui Bay

4–5 Days

Combining Kabui Bay, Arborek, Manta Sandy, and famous snorkeling sites.

Also includes: Arborek, Manta Sandy, Coral Gardens

Raja Ampat Highlights Cruise

INCLUDES Kabui Bay

6–7 Days

A well-balanced journey blending Kabui's calm landscapes with Piaynemo and remote islands.

Also includes: Piaynemo, Remote Islands

Photography Voyage

INCLUDES Kabui Bay

5–7 Days

Kabui's rock paintings, karst passages, and soft-lit lagoons are perfect for landscape and drone photography.

Also includes: Rock Art, Karst Channels, Drone Spots

Can't Find What You're Looking For?

We can customize any itinerary to include Kabui Bay based on your preferences and schedule.

Request Custom Itinerary

Conservation & Marine Protection Preserving Kabui Bay's Cultural and Natural Heritage

Kabui Bay is part of a protected marine zone and holds significant cultural value. Visitors are expected to avoid touching rock paintings or entering restricted cliff areas, use reef-safe sunscreen, respect mangrove forests and shallow coral zones, keep noise levels low near wildlife areas, and dispose of waste responsibly.

Conservation Efforts

Protect Rock Paintings

Avoid touching ancient rock art or entering restricted cliff areas. These are irreplaceable cultural treasures.

Respect Mangrove Ecosystems

Mangrove forests protect shorelines and provide nursery habitat for marine life. Avoid disturbing them.

Keep Noise Levels Low

Quiet exploration helps protect wildlife and maintains the bay's serene atmosphere.

Leave No Trace

Dispose of waste responsibly. Your visit helps support local communities and conservation efforts.

Travel Tips Best Time to Visit & What to Bring

Best Time to Visit

Peak Season (October - April)

Kabui Bay is accessible year-round thanks to its sheltered waters, with optimal weather from October to April.

Shoulder Season (May & September)

Still good for visiting but with occasional rain and slightly rougher seas. Lower tourist numbers mean more solitude.

Off Season (June - August)

Monsoon season with rough seas can make the journey challenging. Most operators avoid Wayag during these months.

Essential Packing List

For the Viewpoint Hike

  • Light walking shoes for short land excursions
  • Dry bag for cameras
  • Camera or drone for karst channels

For Water Activities

  • Kayaking or paddleboarding clothing
  • Snorkel gear (mask and fins)
  • Water shoes

Photography Essentials

  • Camera for rock art photography
  • Drone for aerial karst shots
  • Waterproof case or dry bag

Health & Safety

  • Reef-safe sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Personal medications

Pro Tip

Visit Kabui Bay in the morning for calm waters and golden light filtering through the karst channels.

Connectivity

Limited cell signal in Kabui Bay. Download offline maps and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Leave No Trace

Avoid touching rock paintings, respect mangrove forests, and keep all areas free of trash.

Ready to Experience Kabui Bay's Magic?

A deserted beach picnic awaits on pure white sand. Few travelers reach Wayag due to its remoteness, but our luxury expeditions include it as a highlight of the Raja Ampat experience. This untouched paradise remains beautifully beyond the crowds.

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