Things To Do
in Kokopo
Kokopo is a tropical coastal town in East New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea, known for its warm seas and welcoming communities. It serves as a gateway to the volcanic and wartime heritage of nearby Rabaul while maintaining a relaxed, beach-town vibe. Visitors can enjoy reef snorkeling, island excursions, and lively markets set against a backdrop of palm-fringed shores and clear blue skies.
The town blends modern amenities with rugged natural beauty, making it a rewarding stop for explorers seeking culture, nature, and sea life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Kokopo, where the lush landscapes greet you with warm tropical breezes. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a leisurely breakfast while absorbing the stunning views of the surrounding coastline. Take some time to relax and adjust to the laid-back rhythm of the island.
Embark on a walking tour of Kokopo town, visiting local markets and interacting with friendly vendors. Discover the vibrant culture of the local people while sampling traditional snacks and refreshments. Don’t forget to take some photos of the colorful streets and scenic surroundings.
Dine at a cozy local restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood and traditional Papua New Guinean dishes. As the sun sets, take a stroll along the beach and absorb the breathtaking views of the horizon. End your evening with a cultural display that showcases the rich heritage of the region.
Take a guided tour to explore the stunning Rabaul volcano, beginning with an early morning drive through the picturesque landscape. Hike to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the vast Pacific below. Capture the awe-inspiring beauty of the area as you learn about the geological significance of the volcano.
Visit the Rabaul Historical Society Museum to gain insight into the region's history, particularly its volcanic activity and World War II significance. Afterward, spend time at the famous submarine crater, indulging in both the views and potential snorkeling spots. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst scenic surroundings, surrounded by nature.
Return to Kokopo and unwind at your accommodations, perhaps enjoying a swim in the pool or relaxing with a good book. Choose to explore local cuisines at a different eatery or revisit a favorite spot from your first night. End the evening with local music or a bonfire on the beach.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🧃Soft drink | $2-4 |
| 🚕Taxi or short private ride | $5-15 |
| 🏝️Beach access or island day trip | Often $0-25 depending on activity |
| 🏨Midrange hotel per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming people and a laid-back island vibe
- Excellent snorkeling, reefs, and coastal scenery
- Limited high-end dining and nightlife options
- Remote location can mean longer travel times and fewer services
- "Halo" - Hello
- "Tenkyu" - Thank you
- "Orait" - Okay / All right
- "Gutpela dei" - Good day
- "Mi tok Tok Pisin liklik" - I speak a little Tok Pisin
- "Wetin i stap?" - What’s going on?
Places to Visit in Kokopo
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic active volcano with dramatic crater activity and a striking backdrop over the bay; best photographed at sunrise or sunset.
Calm sea, palm trees, and memorials along the shore provide peaceful compositions and sunset silhouettes.
Clear turquoise water, vibrant corals, and marine life; ideal for wide-angle reef shots and underwater photography.
Ghostly WWII-era structures set amid lush vegetation and harbor views, offering moody, atmospheric photography.
Coastal light and sea haze with ocean horizons—great for dramatic seascapes.
Food in Kokopo
Kokopo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh reef fish cured in lime juice and coconut milk with onions, peppers, and coconut shavings; served with cassava or taro.
Must-Try!
Earth-oven roasted meat (often pork) with root crops like taro and sweet potato, offering a smoky, hearty flavor.
Leaf-wrapped, steamed or baked mix of grated root vegetables and greens, sometimes with fish or meat, similar to a savory tamale.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub to find fresh fruit, vegetables, reef fish, bread, and local snacks—great for sampling everyday flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake is common; show respect to elders and local leaders; modest dress in villages and religious sites.
Ask permission before photographing people or sacred spaces; some communities may request a small fee or forbid photography entirely.
Dress modestly in villages and religious sites; swimwear is appropriate only at beaches and resort areas.
Safety
Tipping in Kokopo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; round up bills or leave 5–10% in nicer restaurants or for exceptional service.
Cash in PGK is widely used; some places accept debit/credit cards in larger towns. ATMs exist but can be limited in remote areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warmer days with lower rainfall; excellent for outdoor activities, volcano views, and long coastal walks. Evenings can be comfortable near the coast.
Higher humidity and frequent tropical showers; sudden downpours possible. Seas can be rough, but mornings are often clearer for photography and island trips.
Kokopo at Night
Hiking in Kokopo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Crater rim views and coastal scenery; guided hikes are recommended for safety and navigation.
Easy coastal hike with opportunities to observe marine life and birds; combine with snorkeling day trips.
Airports
How to reach Kokopo by plane.
Main nearby airport serving Kokopo and Rabaul; domestic flights connect to Port Moresby and other centers.
PNG’s primary international gateway; most international travelers transit here to reach Kokopo via domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Tolai (Kokovan) are the predominant local group in East New Britain, known for their language, markets, and distinctive art.
PNG’s diverse mix includes coastal villages and inland groups with shared kinship and cultural practices.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely followed sport across PNG, with informal games and local leagues in coastal towns.
Common in schools and clubs; informal matches are often played on weekends.
Both sport and subsistence fishing are popular along the coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kokopo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options exist in larger eateries: heartier vegetable stews, coconut curries, cassava, yams, greens, and fruit dishes. Communicate preferences clearly, as meat-based dishes are common.