Raja Ampat, Indonesia
    Teluk Mayalibit (Raja Ampat)

    Kabui Reef

    Best months: Dec–Apr

    Protected Area

    Teluk Mayalibit (Raja Ampat)

    Why dive here

    With 236+ marine species recorded in the area - including blacktip reef sharks, manta rays, mobula rays (devil rays), pygmy seahorses and sea turtles - Kabui Reef offers some of Raja Ampat's richest reef diving. Water ranges 29-30°C, warmest May, November, December.

    Best timeDec–Apr
    WetsuitNo wetsuit needed, or a rash guard
    Marine lifeBlacktip Reef Sharks, Manta Rays, Mobula Rays (Devil Rays), Pygmy Seahorses and Sea Turtles · 236+ species recorded
    Water29-30°C · warmest May, November, December
    CharacterReef dive
    StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

    Kabui Reef feels like a secret garden, a calm oasis in Raja Ampat. We love this site for its relaxed vibe; it’s perfect when you want a break from the roaring currents and don’t need the high-octane pelagic action. Descending into Kabui, you're immediately struck by the sheer density of clown anemonefish, their orange bodies a constant flicker among the anemone tentacles. It’s a photographer’s dream, and we’ve spent entire dives just watching their territorial squabbles. The real magic here is in the details, though. We’ve found multiple pygmy seahorses, including Denise’s, tucked away in gorgonian fans. It takes a keen eye and a patient fin, but they are there. Look closely at the hard coral patches, and you might spot a Scaly-nape Tentacle Goby or a tiny Wasp Pygmy Goby darting into cover. The reef drops to a maximum of 16 meters, so there’s plenty of bottom time to explore the nooks and crannies. Visibility often hovers around 14 meters, good enough to appreciate the intricate textures of the corals and the subtle movements of the smaller inhabitants. It’s a gentle drift, ideal for long, slow dives where discovery is the main goal. This is a place for macro enthusiasts, new divers, or anyone who just wants to unwind and truly see the small wonders.

    Safety Notes

    Strong currents typical this month (avg 35 cm/s). Good buoyancy control essential.

    Today06:0118:0812h 7m daylightGolden hour 17:41

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Kabui Reef

    Kabui Reef Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Kabui Reef, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (-0.5, 130.6) (0km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    30°C

    86°F · Range: 29.2–30.9°C

    Current Speed

    34.71 cm/s

    Direction: NW (311.5°)

    Chlorophyll-a

    0.138 mg/m³

    Clear water

    Salinity

    34.33 PSU

    Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU)

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