Moti Island

Pulau Moti

A small island northwest of Ternate featuring excellent snorkeling and diving sites with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. The island's quiet beaches and authentic fishing villages provide a genuine taste of island life in the spice islands.

Things to do

• Snorkeling at Coral Garden — Explore vibrant shallow coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and sea turtles just meters from the shore in crystal-clear waters.
• Diving at Moti Wall — Experience a dramatic underwater cliff drop-off on the island's eastern side where pelagic fish and sharks patrol the deeper waters.
• Visit Soa-Sio Fishing Village — Walk through the traditional stilt-house settlement to observe local fishermen preparing their boats and nets using methods passed down for generations.
• Beach combing at Pasir Putih — Stroll along the island's quiet white-sand beach to collect shells and observe nesting sea turtles during breeding season.
• Sunset watching from island viewpoint — Climb to the small hilltop on the western shore to witness the sun setting over the Molucca Sea with views toward Ternate.
• Kayaking through mangrove channels — Paddle through protected mangrove forests on the island's southern coast to spot juvenile fish, crustaceans, and water birds.

Food to try

• Ikan Bakar (grilled fish) — Freshly caught local fish grilled whole over coconut husks and served with sambal and lime, a staple in fishing villages.
• Tinutuan Ternate — A savory rice porridge made with fish broth, turmeric, and local herbs, typically eaten for breakfast or as comfort food.
• Cakalang Fufu (smoked fish) — Smoked skipjack tuna prepared using traditional smoking methods over coconut wood, creating a distinctive smoky flavor unique to North Maluku.
• Soto Banjar with local twist — A spiced turmeric-based soup served with rice or rice cakes, adapted locally with island fish and coconut milk.
• Fresh tropical fruits from local vendors — Seasonal mangosteen, rambutan, and papaya sold by village women at simple waterfront stands or directly from trees.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect fishing schedules — Most activities and services operate around dawn and dusk fishing times, so plan visits and meals according to the local fishing calendar.
• Ask permission before photographing — Many residents are welcoming but appreciate being asked before taking photos, especially in villages and of children or religious ceremonies.
• Dress modestly in villages — While beaches are more relaxed, wear covered shoulders and knees when visiting Soa-Sio and other settlements as a sign of respect.
• Learn basic Indonesian greetings — Locals speak Indonesian and regional languages; greeting people with 'Selamat pagi' (good morning) or 'Terima kasih' (thank you) is warmly received and appreciated.