If you’re dreaming of a destination that feels like it’s been plucked straight from a postcard, Misool in the Raja Ampat archipelago is your answer. This remote island in Indonesia is a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and unforgettable experiences. I recently spent a week here, and it was nothing short of magical. From heart-shaped lagoons to swimming with stingless jellyfish, Misool feels like stepping onto another planet. The best part? Its remoteness keeps the crowds away, making it a true hidden gem.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about visiting Misool—how to get there, where to stay, and the best things to see and do. Let’s dive in!

How to Get to Misool

Getting to Misool is an adventure in itself. The island is located in southern Raja Ampat, off the coast of West Papua, and the journey involves a mix of flights and boat rides. Here’s how I did it:

Fly to Sorong: The closest airport to Misool is in Sorong (SOQ). I flew with Garuda Airlines from Bali, and the 3-hour flight was smooth and comfortable. You can find flights on Skyscanner from major Indonesian cities like Jakarta, Makassar, or Manado.

Taxi to the Harbor: Once you land in Sorong, it’s a quick 15-minute taxi ride to the harbor. I used the Grab app to book a taxi, but there are plenty of drivers waiting at the airport if you prefer to haggle.

Overnight Ferry to Misool: The ferry ride to Misool takes about 8 hours, but be prepared for delays—this is “Indonesian time,” after all. My ferry was delayed by 3 hours, so plan accordingly if you have a tight schedule. The ferry isn’t luxurious, but you can rent a private cabin for a more comfortable ride. I recommend this if you want to catch some sleep during the bumpy journey.

• • Pro Tip: Your homestay in Misool can help you book ferry tickets in advance. Alternatively, you can contact the ferry captain directly for arrangements.   

Private Speedboat Option: If you’re short on time or prefer a faster option, private speedboats are available. The Misool Eco Resort offers this service, cutting the travel time to just 5 hours. However, it’s significantly more expensive than the ferry.

Final Transfer to Your Homestay: Once you arrive at Yellu Harbor in Misool, your homestay will arrange a small boat to take you to your accommodation. This last leg of the journey takes 30-60 minutes, depending on where you’re staying.

Best Things to Do in Misool

Misool is packed with jaw-dropping sights and activities. Here are the highlights from my trip:

Beautiful Balbulol Lagoon rocks

Balbulol Lagoon

This place is otherworldly. Imagine towering limestone karsts rising out of a turquoise lagoon—it’s like something from a sci-fi movie. Swimming here was surreal, but the real adventure was climbing to the viewpoint above the lagoon. The hike is steep and a bit risky (think Class 4 rock climbing), so wear proper shoes and be cautious. The view from the top? Absolutely worth it.

Yapap Rocks

Yapap is one of the easiest spots to visit in Misool, and the scenery is stunning. The rock formations reminded me of the Seychelles, but with a unique twist. There’s also a short climb to a viewpoint where you can take in the panoramic views.

Lenmakana Jellyfish Lake

Swimming with thousands of stingless jellyfish was a highlight of my trip. The lake is home to three species of jellyfish, all harmless to humans. The hike to the lake is muddy and steep, so wear sturdy shoes. Once you’re in the water, it’s pure magic.

Karawapop Love Lake

This heart-shaped lagoon is a must-see. The boat ride takes about 1.5 hours from Yapap, but the bright blue waters and the short hike to the viewpoint make it worth the trip.

Dafalen Peak

Another heart-shaped lagoon, this one is surrounded by a towering limestone mountain. The climb to the viewpoint is short but tricky due to rotting wooden steps. Be careful!

Harfat / Dapunlol Peak

This peak offers breathtaking views of the entire Misool area. The climb is relatively easy, but watch out for broken boards on the stairway. One of my travel companions had a nasty fall here, so tread carefully.

Snorkelling

Raja Ampat is famous for its marine life, and Misool is no exception. My favorite spot was Gamfi, where I saw pristine coral, baby sharks, and even squids. Snorkeling here is a daily must-do.

Namlol Beach & Lagoon

Namlol is a serene beach with a beautiful blue lagoon. We stopped here for lunch during one of our tours, and the guides even climbed palm trees to fetch fresh coconuts for us. It’s the perfect spot to relax and soak in the natural beauty.

Olobi Island

This small island is home to friendly locals and two picturesque beaches. We had lunch here during our tour to Karawapop, and I flew my drone while the local kids gathered around, fascinated by the technology. It was a heartwarming experience.

Gua Keramat Cave

This hidden gem in western Misool is about 1.5 hours by boat from Yapap. The cave features jagged limestone rocks and a shallow pool where you can swim. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even swim into the darker parts of the cave.

Gua Putri Termenung Cave

This dry cave is named after a rock formation that resembles a daydreaming princess. The cave is filled with stalactites and even has tiny bird nests in the ceiling. It’s an easy walk and worth a quick visit.

Sunmalelen Rock Art

This limestone rock wall features ancient paintings of fish, whales, dolphins, and human handprints. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the island’s history and culture.

Where to Stay in Misool

Accommodation in Misool is basic but charming. Most homestays offer overwater bungalows with a communal vibe. Here are some options:

• Yapap Homestay: Overwater bungalows near the Yapap rock formations. Sadly, it was fully booked during my visit.
• Yamnini Homestay: I stayed here for most of my trip. The overwater bungalows are comfortable, and the staff is helpful. However, they tend to overbook, so double-check your reservation.
• Misool Eco Resort: If you’re looking for luxury, this is the place. It’s pricey but offers top-notch amenities, including a spa and private excursions.
• Panun Paradise Homestay: Located near Balbulol, this homestay is perfect for those seeking solitude.

For more options, check out Booking.com or Agoda.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Misool is from October to April when the weather is dry and calm. Avoid mid-June to mid-September due to heavy winds and rain. I visited in February, and while the weather was unpredictable, I still had an incredible time.

Must know Tips

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Cell Service: Phone reception is pretty limited in most of Misool. I only got data near the main harbor in Yellu, so Starlink WiFi is a lifesaver if you need to stay connected.

Bugs: I did notice some mosquitoes, but they were mostly on the larger islands with jungle areas. Overwater homestays are breezy and have very few bugs, so no worries there. A good insect repellent is essential even if you’re not travelling through rural areas or jungles.

Entrance Fees: Some spots in Misool, like the jellyfish lake, have additional fees that you’ll need to pay in cash on the spot. As of 2025, it was 75k Rupiah per person at this location and a few others.

What to Pack: For the boat tours, it’s a smart idea to bring a waterproof bag or a phone pouch to keep your electronics safe. A power bank is also super handy for charging your devices when there’s no electricity available.

Dress Code: While the locals in Misool are generally Muslim, they’re quite relaxed compared to some other areas in Indonesia. Wearing a bikini on the islands is totally fine.

Malaria: Good news—according to a 2018 Lancet study, Malaria has significantly decreased in Misool and the surrounding areas. That said, I’d still play it safe by sleeping under a mosquito net and using bug spray when hiking. I skipped Malaria pills, but it’s always good to assess your own comfort level! 

Conservation Card: Don’t forget that all adults visiting Raja Ampat need to purchase a conservation card for the marine park. It’s valid for 12 months, and your homestay can help arrange it, or you can buy it online through the official website.

To know about more adventure in Indonesia please  read : Backpacking Indonesia in 2025: What You Need to Know 

Misool is a place that stays with you long after you leave. Whether you’re snorkeling in pristine waters, climbing to breathtaking viewpoints, or simply soaking in the beauty of its lagoons, this island is a true paradise. Ready to plan your trip? Let me know if you have any questions!