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Bunaken Island is a small island located in the Bunaken National Marine Park in North Sulawesi, Indonesia. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and diverse marine life, which makes it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving. The island is surrounded by a protected marine park, which covers an area of about 890 square kilometers, and is home to a wide range of marine biodiversity, including over 70 species of coral, various fish species, and other marine creatures such as dolphins, sea turtles, and barracudas. The island itself is also known for its beautiful white sand beaches, lush tropical vegetation, and traditional fishing villages, making it a popular destination for both adventure seekers and those looking for a relaxing getaway.
How To Visit?
To visit Bunaken Island, you can follow these steps:
- Fly to Manado: The nearest airport to Bunaken Island is Sam Ratulangi International Airport in Manado. You can fly to Manado from major cities in Indonesia, such as Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali, as well as some international destinations.
- Travel to the Harbor: From Manado, you need to travel to the harbor to catch a boat to Bunaken Island. The harbor is about a 30-minute drive from the airport. You can take a taxi or arrange transportation with your hotel or travel agency.
- Hire a Boat: Once you arrive at the harbor, you can hire a boat to take you to Bunaken Island. There are two types of boats available: traditional wooden boats and speedboats. The traditional boats are cheaper, but they take longer to reach the island. Speedboats are faster and more expensive.
- Snorkeling or Diving: Once you arrive at Bunaken Island, you can enjoy the snorkeling and diving activities. There are many dive centers and snorkeling operators on the island that offer rental gear, guided tours, and diving courses.
- Accommodation: Bunaken Island has several accommodation options, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. You can book your accommodation in advance through a travel agency or online booking platform.
Overall, visiting Bunaken Island requires some planning and preparation, but the experience is definitely worth it for those who love nature, adventure, and exploring marine biodiversity.
Activities & Tourist Attractions
Bunaken Island is a popular tourist destination in North Sulawesi, Indonesia, known for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and diverse marine life. Some of the main tourist attractions on the island include:
Snorkeling and Diving
Bunaken Island is known for its excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. The island is surrounded by a protected marine park, which covers an area of about 890 square kilometers, and is home to over 70 species of coral and various fish species, including Napoleon wrasse, moray eels, and barracudas.
White Sand Beaches
Bunaken Island has several beautiful white sand beaches, such as Liang Beach and Pangalisang Beach, where visitors can relax, sunbathe, and swim in the crystal-clear waters.
Traditional Fishing Villages
The island has several traditional fishing villages, where visitors can observe the local way of life, learn about the island's history and culture, and sample the local cuisine.
Island Hopping
Visitors can take a boat tour around the surrounding islands, such as Manado Tua Island, Siladen Island, and Nain Island, and enjoy the natural beauty and marine biodiversity of the area.
Sunset Watching
Bunaken Island offers stunning sunset views, with the sun setting behind the nearby Manado Tua Island, creating a beautiful and peaceful atmosphere.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that Bunaken Island has to offer, making it a must-visit destination for those who love nature, adventure, and exploring marine biodiversity.
