As the experts in all things travel to PNG and Port Moresby, we are always looking for more things to do in the capital, which is what let me to try the Loloata Resort.
Located just on the outskirts of the capital and indeed a boat ride away to the island, this is known as the getaway from one of the most dangerous cities on earth. It is though far from cheap and a bit of a rigmarole to get to. This begs the question, is it worth staying at the Loloata Resort? Well yes and no…
Table of Contents
The Loloata Resort
The Loloata Resort has been around since the 1980s and started off as a private getaway for expats and foreign officials looking to escape Port Moresby for a few days. Over the years it has changed ownership several times, now run by a mix of local PNG investors and overseas operators who advertise it as a safe and scenic retreat. The resort spans several small islands linked by boardwalks and is well known among divers for its proximity to good snorkelling and diving spots. Its reputation as a quiet escape from the chaos of the city has kept it on the radar of travellers, although it has seen better days and occasionally suffers from slow service and under-maintained facilities.
The Facilities
Facilities are actually pretty decent, although a bit weathered. The swimming pool for example could do with a clean….
- A small swimming pool tucked near the main building
- A dive and snorkel shop with boat hire
- A restaurant serving a mix of PNG and basic western food
- A bar with beer and spirits
- Kayaks and a small jetty for swimming
- Wi-Fi which is patchy at best
- Lounge areas and sunbeds scattered around the island
The facilities are fine for a day or two, but if you’re planning a long stay don’t expect anything fancy or fast-moving.
The Rooms and Prices
Rooms vary depending on your budget and how much isolation you want. The overwater rooms are particularly good, especially the balcony.
- Standard Room: 450 PGK per night (~USD 130), basic, some with shared bathrooms
- Deluxe Room: 750 PGK per night (~USD 220), air-conditioned, ensuite, larger
- Island Bungalows: 1,200 PGK per night (~USD 350), private, right on the water, most scenic option
All rooms are comfortable and well maintained, though the older bungalows show signs of wear. The best views are from the island bungalows.
Getting There and Away
Getting to Loloata is a bit of an adventure. From downtown Port Moresby, you take a taxi or resort shuttle to the pier, then a short boat ride across to the island. The boat ride is usually calm but weather can make it rough and occasionally delayed.
Leaving is the same, make sure your timing is coordinated because the resort boat schedule is not exactly rigid and taxis in Port Moresby are slow and occasionally unreliable. The journey adds to the sense of escaping the city, but it’s not exactly convenient if you have tight travel schedules.
Is it Worth Staying at the Loloata Resort?
For the price the Loloata does not actually deliver that well. In essence the service is slow and unreliable and the resort has seen better days. The rooms though are fantastic and it is worth it if you just want a night or two out of the city, or you are travelling and need some time away from Port Moresby.
Longer stays though would become very boring and not worth the extra cost. Essentially you get better bang for your buck from The Hilton Click to see my PNG Tours.
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