If you’ve not heard of Pokpok Island in Bougainville then you are not alone, because despite being one of the most beautiful islands in a sea of beauty few people get out here.
That though is not the case with The Street Food Guy and YPT with us offering a few yearly jaunts to Bougainville. So, what is the deal with the place, is it worth the effort and how indeed can you get here?
What the PokPok Island?
Tucked away in the Solomon Sea, off the coast of Bougainville in Papua New Guinea, lies the serene and relatively unknown PokPok Island. This small, picturesque island might be overshadowed by the more well-known beaches of Southeast Asia, but it has a charm all its own—a slice of paradise that feels like stepping back in time.
PokPok Island is a lush, green jewel, surrounded by crystal-clear waters that are as inviting as they are mysterious. The island’s landscape is dominated by dense tropical forests, coconut palms, and stunning cliffs that drop into the sea. The coastline is dotted with pristine, white-sand beaches, perfect for those looking to escape the bustle of the modern world. Unlike the busier islands in the Pacific, PokPok remains largely undeveloped, making it a haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
The history of PokPok Island is deeply intertwined with that of Bougainville itself. The island has long been home to indigenous communities who have lived in harmony with nature for centuries. During World War II, the island, like much of Bougainville, found itself at the center of conflict between Allied and Japanese forces. The remnants of war, such as old bunkers and rusting relics, can still be found hidden among the island’s dense vegetation.
Post-war Pokpok has seen some form of tranquility return, but was also heavily affected by the Bougainville War as well as the blockade. In fact our friends here had to live in caves and cook at night to avoid being shot by PNG forces.
Make no mistake though, if the place does get independence then it will be front and centre for tourism here.
And it makes a great place to do some Island Hopping.
What to do on Pokpok Island?
Funnily enough there is not a huge amount to do on Pokpok Island, with much of the water sports now being provided by the few guesthouses and pseudo-resorts that exist.
In fact the draw of this island is that people live, work, fish and indeed party here, with the empty cans and paiawara bottles being testament to this.
This is a proper untouched island community that you visit for some cell data action, buying preserves and hanging out with the locals. Island mentality was fully served to me when I happened to run into my tour guide from the mainland’s son. Apparently he had been moved here post marriage, a common thing in these parts.
So, while this area is littered with great islands, finding one with cigarettes and coca-cola can be equally as important as tranquility.
Oh and some of Mr Pip was also filmed here….