Billy Island

A picturesque island within the lagoon offering secluded beaches and excellent diving opportunities. The island provides a peaceful retreat with opportunities to experience traditional island life and pristine natural surroundings.

Things to do

• Coral Reef Diving — Explore the vibrant coral gardens surrounding Billy Island with visibility often exceeding 30 meters and abundant tropical fish species.
• Beach Snorkeling at White Sand Bay — Wade into shallow crystalline waters off the island's eastern shore to observe colorful reef fish and sea turtles in their natural habitat.
• Traditional Canoe Fishing Experience — Join local fishermen on outrigger canoes at dawn to learn traditional hand-line fishing techniques and understand sustainable island practices.
• Mangrove Forest Walk — Trek through the protected mangrove systems on the island's western edge to spot endemic bird species and observe the ecosystem that supports the reef.
• Sunset Viewing at North Point — Hike to the northern headland to witness panoramic views of Madang Lagoon at sunset with opportunities to photograph the dramatic coastal landscape.
• Village Cultural Tour — Visit the small local settlement to meet residents, see traditional thatched houses, and learn about contemporary island life and customs.

Food to try

• Grilled Barramundi with Coconut — Fresh barramundi caught daily by island fishermen, grilled whole and finished with fresh coconut milk and lime juice.
• Sago Porridge with Fish Broth — A traditional breakfast of sago starch cooked with savory broth made from local white fish and island vegetables.
• Coconut Crab Curry — The prized local delicacy of coconut crab meat prepared in a spiced coconut and turmeric sauce, a specialty for special occasions.
• Taro and Reef Fish Soup — Creamy soup combining locally grown taro root with fresh reef fish, coconut cream, and island herbs served at family meals.
• Banana Leaf Wrapped Fish — Fresh fish seasoned with lemongrass and wrapped in banana leaves, then steamed over hot stones in traditional earth-oven preparation.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Sacred Sites — Several locations on Billy Island hold spiritual significance to residents; always ask permission before photographing or approaching areas marked with traditional symbols.
• Learn Basic Tok Pisin Greetings — While English is spoken by some, learning simple phrases in Tok Pisin like 'gutpela moning' (good morning) shows respect and enhances local interactions.
• Participate in Village Meals — Accept invitations to share meals with locals, as refusing food is considered impolite; meals are communal events central to island social life.
• Dress Conservatively — Wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees, particularly when visiting the village settlement, as respect for traditional values is important to residents.

Nearby

• Planet Rock Dive Site — 2 km
• Madang — 3 km
• Crown Island — 3 km
• Madang Central Market — 4 km