Thelandofpapua.com – Nestled just a kilometre off the eastern shore of Gam’s Yenbeser village lies Friwen, a tiny island rich in natural beauty and cultural experiences. With an area of just 0.2 square kilometres and a coastline stretching about 2 kilometres, Friwen may be small, but it offers a wealth of attractions for visitors.

Whether you’re an avid snorkeler, a diving enthusiast, or simply looking to immerse yourself in village life, Friwen has something for everyone.

Why Visit Friwen Island?

Spectacular Snorkeling and Diving

Friwen is renowned for its excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. The island’s proximity to the famous Friwen Wall makes it a prime spot for underwater exploration.

This dive site features dramatic limestone cliffs that plunge into the ocean, creating a vibrant habitat for diverse marine life. While none of Friwen’s homestays have their own dive centers, they can easily arrange diving excursions with nearby facilities.

For those who prefer to stay close to shore, the beaches on Friwen’s northern side offer fantastic snorkeling. Huge schools of fish often shelter beneath the village jetty, providing a mesmerizing spectacle for snorkelers.

Village Life and Scenic Beauty

Friwen is home to a single village where visitors can experience the local way of life. The village’s shops offer basic supplies and a decent phone signal that typically supports data connections, ensuring you stay connected even in this remote paradise.

On the island’s northern shore, beautiful beaches await, including a western spot with a large overhanging tree and a couple of stalls selling drinks and snacks—perfect for watching the sunset.

Strategic Location for Exploration

Friwen’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding attractions. It’s close to Kabui Bay and the enchanting Dore Mkun lagoon in Yenbeser. Additionally, visitors can easily access Gam’s Red Bird of Paradise display trees from Friwen.

Accommodation on Friwen Island

Homestays

Friwen offers three homestays, each providing a unique experience:

• Nyandetor Homestay: Located on the protected northern shore at the edge of Friwen village, ideal for those who want to be close to village activities.
• Famangkor Homestay and Friwen Homestay: Both situated on the southern shore, offering views across the narrow strait to Friwenbonda and convenient access to Friwen Wall.

Choosing the Right Homestay

Each homestay has individual pages with detailed information about attractions, services, and facilities. They can arrange various trips, so if a particular excursion isn’t listed, it’s still worth inquiring. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season from October to March, as popular homestays can fill up quickly.

Friwenbonda: A Secluded Paradise

Just 500 metres southeast of Friwen lies Friwenbonda, an arrowhead-shaped limestone tower covering 0.12 square kilometres. This uninhabited island is home to Friwmunday Wall Homestay, situated near its northern end.

This homestay offers direct access to the Friwen Wall dive site via its floating dock and a private sandy beach on its southern shore, perfect for those seeking a secluded retreat with superb snorkeling.

Getting to Friwen Island

Reaching Friwen is straightforward. All homestays can arrange pickups from Waisai, with an average one-way transfer cost of around 500,000 IDR (~$34.00) and a travel time of less than an hour. It’s often quicker and more efficient to have your current host transfer you directly to Friwen if you’re coming from another location within Raja Ampat.

For more detailed planning, including a high-resolution map and a step-by-step trip guide, visit the Waisai Homestay Information Center online.