Bunaken Island Diving
Every descent reveals a kaleidoscope of marine life and awe-inspiring coral walls. It's an underwater adventure you simply have to experience!
Why Dive Bunaken
Bunaken National Park, located off the coast of North Sulawesi, Indonesia, is one of Southeast Asia’s premier dive destinations—and for good reason. Situated at the heart of the Coral Triangle, this marine park is a treasure trove of biodiversity, offering an incredible variety of marine life, pristine coral reefs, and stunning underwater topography.
One of the greatest advantages of diving in Bunaken is its accessibility to all levels of divers. From calm, shallow reefs ideal for beginners and snorkelers, to thrilling vertical walls and deeper drift dives that challenge more experienced adventurers, Bunaken caters to every skill level. Visibility often exceeds 20–30 meters, and water temperatures hover around a comfortable 27–30°C year-round—perfect for relaxed, extended exploration beneath the surface.
The dive sites are rich with marine life: expect to see vibrant hard and soft corals, schools of reef fish, turtles, eagle rays, reef sharks, and an abundance of macro critters hiding in the nooks and crannies of the reef. The area’s famous wall dives, teeming with life and color, are considered some of the best in the world.
As a long-established diving destination, Bunaken has a well-developed infrastructure that caters to divers. There’s a wide range of dive resorts and accommodations to choose from—whether you're looking for budget-friendly homestays, mid-range eco-lodges, or luxurious boutique resorts with full-service dive centers. Many of these resorts are run by experienced operators with deep local knowledge, offering safe, professionally guided dives, equipment rentals, and personalized dive packages.
With its rich underwater life, warm waters, and welcoming dive community, Bunaken remains a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about the ocean. Whether it’s your first dive or your hundredth, Bunaken promises an unforgettable underwater adventure. As it is friendly for all diving levels and also a perfect destination for snorkelers, Bunaken is an excellent choice for families seeking both relaxation and ocean exploration. From guided dive trips to vibrant house reefs just steps from the shore, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy—above and below the surface.
Destination Highlights
Extend Your Stay: More Diving & Land Adventures in North Sulawesi
For guests looking to extend their underwater adventure, nearby islands offer distinct diving experiences:
- Lembeh Strait (accessible by a one-hour drive via Bitung) is globally recognised for macro diving. Often referred to as the “muck diving capital of the world,” Lembeh is home to rare and fascinating critters like frogfish, mimic octopuses, nudibranchs, and seahorses—ideal for underwater photographers and marine life enthusiasts.
- Bangka Island, located north of Manado, offers a different flavor of diving with its colorful coral gardens, pelagic sightings, and pinnacle formations. The area is suitable for both beginners and experienced divers, and known for its mix of macro and wide-angle subjects.
Once you're ready to explore beyond the ocean, North Sulawesi offers diverse land-based tours:
- The Minahasa Highlands provide a scenic and cultural experience with panoramic volcano views, traditional villages, Lake Tondano and Lake Linow, local markets, and hot springs. These highland tours offer a relaxed pace and a look into local Minahasan culture and natural beauty.
- For wildlife and nature enthusiasts, Tangkoko Nature Reserve is a must-visit. This lowland rainforest is one of the best spots in Indonesia to observe the spectral tarsier, black crested macaque, hornbills, and many other endemic species. Guided jungle treks are typically light and take place in the early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife encounters.
With its combination of world-class diving, unique marine environments, and rich land-based nature and culture, North Sulawesi offers a well-rounded and diverse holiday destination, providing a rich blend of marine and terrestrial experiences.
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diving highlights
Bunaken National Park is a premier diving destination renowned for some of the world's best wall diving, featuring stunning coral walls teeming with diverse marine life.
Accommodation Options for Divers, Snorkelers, and Nature Lovers in Bunaken and Siladen....
The islands of Bunaken and Siladen offer a range of charming dive resorts that cater to divers, snorkelers, and nature lovers looking to enjoy a relaxing island holiday. Most resorts provide all-inclusive packages that ensure a hassle-free experience, especially considering the remote location of the islands. These packages typically include:
- Airport transfers to and from Manado
- Full board meals with a variety of local and international dishes
- Diving or snorkeling packages with professional guides and boat access to top sites
There is something for every type of traveler, with accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly to boutique beachfront resorts and luxury villas. Whether you're a dive focuse a adventurer or a couple looking for a more upscale island retreat, you'll find a stay that fits your style and budget.
For guests who prefer more flexibility, many resorts also offer à la carte options, allowing you to book diving and snorkeling activities once you're at the resort. This gives you the freedom to plan your holiday at your own pace—whether that means diving every day or simply relaxing and enjoying the island scenery.
Whether you're here for the world-class wall dives and vibrant marine life, or to relax in a hammock by the sea, these resorts options on Bunaken and Siladen provide a perfect base for your island escape.
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