Bunaken Marine Park

Taman Laut Bunaken

A world-class marine reserve comprising five islands with some of Indonesia's most pristine coral reefs and diverse fish populations. This is one of the top diving and snorkeling destinations in Southeast Asia, offering visibility up to 50 meters and vibrant coral gardens.

Things to do

• Wall Diving at Lekuan — Experience a dramatic vertical coral wall dropping to 80+ meters with schools of jacks, fusiliers, and occasional reef sharks patrolling the blue.
• Snorkeling at Siladen Island — Explore shallow coral gardens and abundant tropical fish within 5-10 meters of the surface, perfect for all skill levels.
• Macro Photography at Sachino — Hunt for nudibranchs, gobies, shrimp, and other tiny creatures in the sandy slopes and coral rubble of this photographer's paradise.
• Night Diving — Witness nocturnal marine life including octopuses, squid, and sleeping fish as bioluminescent organisms glow in your torch beam.
• Island Hopping and Beach Visit — Visit multiple islands including Manado Tua and Bunaken village to experience local coastal communities and pristine white-sand beaches.
• Turtle and Ray Spotting — Search deeper sandy areas and seagrass beds for green sea turtles, manta rays, and eagle rays during daytime dives.

Food to try

• Tinutuan — A savory rice porridge served with fish, shrimp, or chicken, topped with fried shallots and sambal, commonly eaten for breakfast in North Sulawesi.
• Cakalang Fufu — Smoked pork ribs marinated in spices and grilled, a signature Manado dish often served with rice and sambal matah.
• Fresh Grilled Fish with Sambal Matah — Whole reef fish grilled over coconut husks and served with a fiery raw sambal of chilies, shallots, and lime juice.
• Woku-Woku — A fragrant spice paste made with turmeric, ginger, and chilies used to coat and marinate grilled seafood and vegetables.
• Seafood at Bunaken Village Markets — Purchase fresh catches directly from fishermen in the morning and arrange for local restaurants to prepare them to your taste.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Marine Park Rules — Always hire licensed local guides, avoid touching corals or collecting shells, and follow designated dive sites to protect the fragile ecosystem that sustains the community.
• Support Local Guides and Communities — Use local dive operators and boatmen from Bunaken village rather than large resorts, as this directly benefits families dependent on marine tourism.
• Dress Modestly When on Shore — While diving attire is expected, wear respectful clothing when visiting villages and the small mosque; avoid revealing swimwear outside the water.
• Learn Basic Indonesian Phrases — Greet locals with 'Selamat pagi' (good morning) and 'Terima kasih' (thank you), which is appreciated and opens friendly conversations with fishermen and restaurant owners.