Ela Beach

Ela Beach is a public beach in Port Moresby featuring approximately one kilometer of white sand running along the coast. The shoreline includes sports courts, a boardwalk, an amphitheater space, and food kiosks spread throughout the area.

The location was originally called Era Kone, meaning Turtle Beach in the Motuan language, reflecting the significance of sea turtles in the region. It served as a key departure point for ancient maritime trade routes.

The beach hosts the annual Hiri Moale Festival, where the Motu-Koita people celebrate their seafaring heritage through performances and ceremonies. This location remains important to the community as a place where these customs continue today.

Swimming areas are limited, so it helps to check with locals about the safest spots for orientation. The best times to visit are outside the hottest hours of the day.

From the elevated areas above the beach, visitors can spot multiple small islands scattered across the Coral Sea. This view reveals the geographic diversity of the area and connects to the historical maritime routes of the past.