Deep Blue Marvel of Bunaken Island

Bunaken Island Snorkeling (left) and at the Reef Wall (right) A stay in Manado equals convenience as attractions in and around North Sulawes...

Bunaken Island Snorkeling (left) and at the Reef Wall (right)

A stay in Manado equals convenience as attractions in and around North Sulawesi are just nearby. One of the nearest attractions is the coral-fringed Bunaken Island, part of the Bunaken National Marine Park. The park, with its 1,566 deep waters, boasts of rich biodiversity where 70% of fish species from the Indo-Western Pacific Ocean and seven times more genus of coral than Hawaii can be found. It’s definitely a haven for divers and snorkelers. For beachcombers, there’s a stretch of white sand beach tucked behind mangroves at the southern end.

Approaching Bunaken Island with the inactive Manado Tua Volcano rising on the horizon.

Wonder Underwater

The crescent-shaped Bunaken Island has a more authentic island life feel with its modestly-developed village consisting of small eateries, souvenir shops and a few mid-range resorts. Divers and snorkelers can rent gear and hire boats to popular underwater spots like Fukui or Lekuan. There are even boats with glass-bottomed viewing sections that teases what the scene beneath holds. Once underwater, prepare for a dizzying psychedelic frenzy as a dazzling array of multi-colored fishes and corals visually bombard you especially near the drop-off wall. Just astounding!

My only concern here are the practice of some guides there who would encourage guest to “hold-on” to some corals to hold their position for picture-taking purposes. I cringe when I see people touch or damage corals underwater.

A strip of beach behind some mangroves

Essential Info

From the Manado harbor, public outrigger boats leave in the afternoon for Palau Bunaken for 50,000rp (US$6) per person. Travel time takes about an hour. A 50,000rp (US$6) entrance fee applies once you step on the island. Accommodation ranges from 100,000- 300,000rp (US$10-40).

Glass viewing section of the boat

The turquoise waters of Bunaken Island

Some samurai anemone fish