Indonesia · Fam/Penemu Islands, Raja Ampat
Melissa's Garden
Also known as: Melissa Garden
Best time to dive
January to December; October to April
What you might see
- BarracudaPossible
- Ghost pipefishLikely
- Grey reef sharkPossible
- Manta rayPossible
- Pygmy seahorseLikely
- SeahorseLikely
Sightings are seasonal probabilities, not promises - even in peak season nature does its own thing.
Certification & difficulty
Open Water
Snorkelling
Snorkel-friendly - Yes - the shallow plateau is excellent for snorkeling over dense coral cover
Safety notes
Generally low risk; boat traffic; the open-water crossing to Penemu/Fam can be rough in the wet season
Permits & fees
Raja Ampat Marine Park Entry Permit (SIMAKSI): ~IDR 700,000 foreign / IDR 425,000 domestic, valid 12 months; plus Visitor Entry Ticket ~IDR 1,000,000 foreign at Waisai port
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
Location
Nearest hub: Penemu Island
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand dive report. Coordinates are approximate.