Pacific Retreat Offers Stunning Views, Authentic Island Experience
Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort in East New Britain offers a Pacific-style retreat with timber accents, thatched roofs, and open lounges. The resort is centrally located on the coastline of Blanche Bay, providing views of the sea, islands, and volcanoes. Its architecture blends seamlessly with the tropical surroundings, creating a serene and authentic island experience.
Getting There
Daily flights from Port Moresby to Tokua Airport take under two hours. The resort offers paid transfers on a 30-minute drive along a bumpy road currently being upgraded to four lanes. It’s another 40 minutes to Rabaul from there. The journey highlights the region’s natural beauty, with glimpses of lush environments and coastal vistas along the way.
Accommodations and Amenities
Owned by former Air Niugini CEO Simon Foo and his wife Evelyn, the resort has been operating for 25 years under manager Mukesh Kumar. Rooms range from apartments to waterfront bungalows with polished timber floors, sofas, and outdoor verandahs. Interiors feature Melanesian-style decor, including thatched walls and Pacific artifacts. Coastal comforts like ceiling fans, air conditioning, and bar fridges ensure a pleasant stay.
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Dining and Highlights
The Hauswin Restaurant serves a diverse menu of PNG, Asian, Indian, and Western dishes under Chefs Ryan and Rakhi, who have been with the resort for over a decade each. Signature dishes include ceviche, chilli crab, and butter chicken. The open-air dining area enhances the experience with its relaxed ambiance and ocean breezes.
A standout feature is the treetop deck, surrounded by birdsong and views of the sea and volcanoes. It’s an ideal spot for morning coffee or meals. Rates start at PGK656 per night for a waterfront executive bungalow. Guest reviews consistently praise the spacious, beautifully decorated bungalows and the friendly, attentive staff.
The resort attracts a mix of business and leisure travelers, including families with young children. Nearby attractions include Kokopo’s market, the war museum, banks, supermarkets, and a golf course. Annual events like the National Mask Festival in July and the Frangipani Festival in September in Rabaul add cultural richness to the experience.
