Nearby famous Piaynemo island, Melissa’s Garden is called a garden for a reason. This coral reef is Mother Nature’s way of showing us how gardening ought to be done. Patches of hard corals create a smorgasbord of colors that seems to contain all forms of life. Wobbegong sharks, crocodile fish, and centuries-old giant tridacna clams mingle with ubiquitous schools of fusiliers, anthias, and damsels. Soft coral is also found in Melissa’s Garden, making this dive site an excellent place for macro divers and macro photographers.
Good news for non-divers, Melissa’s Garden is not a dangerous dive; thus, divers of all skill levels can find enjoyment underwater. The shallowest reefs rest at five meters below the surface, perfect for snorkelers. The maximum depth of this dive site is around 25 meters. Prepare to be astounded by the large and colorful coral formations that are home to a wide variety of marine life. Melissa’s Garden is undoubtedly one of the best coral reefs in Raja Ampat.