Destinations That Rival Raja: 3 Alternatives to Raja Ampat for World-Class Diving
Raja Ampat is world-famous for its mind-blowing biodiversity, pristine reefs, and epic underwater landscapes. But what if we told you there are other destinations — just as rich in marine life and natural beauty — that offer a similar experience with fewer crowds and unique surprises of their own?
Here are three destinations that rival Raja Ampat — each one a top-tier choice for divers looking for vibrant reefs, rare critters, and unforgettable adventures both above and below the surface.
1. North Sulawesi — Three Worlds of Diving in One Trip
North Sulawesi offers not just one but three distinct marine environments:
Bunaken for dizzying coral walls and turtles
Bangka for stunning reefscapes and soft corals
Lembeh for world-renowned muck diving and macro life
Thanks to our Passport to Paradise program, you can explore all three in one seamless journey, with boat transfers (including dives) between each location. That means no wasted travel days, just nonstop diving in three different ecosystems — all from one easy-to-book itinerary.
Whether you're hunting for pygmy seahorses in Lembeh, watching reef sharks cruise past in Bunaken, or capturing wide-angle scenes in Bangka, North Sulawesi brings the biodiversity and variety that rival Raja.
2. Alor — Pristine, Diverse, and Dramatically Underrated
Alor has quietly become one of Indonesia’s best-kept secrets. Its combination of healthy coral reefs, dramatic underwater scenery, rare macro life, and strong pelagic potential make it a true all-rounder — and a serious contender to Raja Ampat’s throne.
Tim Yeo recently led a group trip here, and his updates paint a vivid picture:
“I’m thinking about giving up underwater photography because there’s no way I can capture and do justice to how healthy the corals are and the massive amount of fish life.” — Tim Yeo, Bluewater Trip Leader
Alor’s dive schedule typically includes:
- Morning boat dives at wide-angle reef and wall sites in the Pantar Strait
- Afternoon muck dives with rare critters like rhinopias, Wunderpus, and ornate pipefish
- Unlimited house reef dives — which Tim described as “one of the better house reefs I’ve dived in a while... good for macro, wide angle, and snorkelers”
Other highlights from the trip included:
- Seahorses, pygmy cuttlefish, mantis shrimp, bobtail squid
- A jetty dive with over 20 coral-covered pillars
- A dolphin encounter on the final day
- A fun underwater photo competition among guests
Add in warm water, great visibility, and welcoming resorts like Alami Alor, and it's clear: Alor isn’t just an alternative — it’s a destination in its own right.
3. Halmahera — Untouched Reefs and Big Potential
Tucked between Raja Ampat and North Sulawesi, Halmahera remains one of Indonesia’s last truly unexplored dive frontiers — but that’s quickly changing.
Bluewater’s Travel Consultant, Anne, recently returned from a trip here and reported incredible biodiversity, untouched reefs, and growing interest from eco-conscious resorts who are keeping the area pristine.
Halmahera offers:
- Healthy, colourful coral reefs rarely visited by other divers
- A mix of muck and reef diving, with great macro photography potential
- An authentic, off-the-grid adventure feel, with modern comforts catching up fast
Why These Destinations Rival Raja
All three destinations featured here offer:
- Exceptional reef health
- Rare macro sightings
- Low diver traffic
- Friendly local operators
- Real value for money
If you’ve already ticked off Raja Ampat, or you're looking for a similarly biodiverse, rewarding dive experience that’s just a little more under the radar, these spots deserve a place at the top of your list.
Need help choosing which destination is right for you? Our expert dive travel advisors can help match you to the perfect itinerary, resort, and trip — all at no extra cost.
Contact us now or start planning your next dive adventure.
