Bunaken: A Tropical Paradise in North Sulawesi
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Bunaken, an island paradise in North Sulawesi, Indonesia, renowned for its vibrant marine life and stunning landscapes.
Bunaken is a stunning island paradise located in North Sulawesi, Indonesia, renowned for its breathtaking marine biodiversity and vibrant coral reefs. Ideal for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, this island promises unforgettable underwater adventures amidst a backdrop of lush greenery and pristine beaches. Visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere, explore charming local villages, and witness the stunning sunsets that paint the skies in vivid colors. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Bunaken is a must-visit destination for travelers.
A brief summary to Bunaken
- North Sulawesi, ID
Local tips
- Bring your own snorkeling gear to save on rental costs and enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace.
- Visit during the off-peak season to avoid crowds and experience a more tranquil atmosphere.
- Don't miss the local seafood dishes; they are fresh and a highlight of the local cuisine.
- Plan your dives with a local guide to ensure you explore the best spots safely.
- Stay at a homestay or eco-lodge for a more authentic experience and to support the local community.
Getting There
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Ferry
To reach Bunaken from Manado, start by heading to the Manado Harbor (Pelabuhan Manado). If you are in central Manado, you can walk or take a local ojek (motorcycle taxi) to the harbor. Once at the harbor, look for the ticket booth for ferries heading to Bunaken Island. The ferries typically operate from early morning until late afternoon, so be sure to check the schedule in advance. Purchase your ticket, and board the ferry, which should take about 30 to 45 minutes to reach Bunaken. Enjoy the scenic views of the sea during your journey.
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Boat
Alternatively, you can also take a speedboat from Manado to Bunaken. Head again to Manado Harbor, where you can find operators offering speedboat services to the island. These speedboats may be slightly more expensive than ferries but significantly reduce travel time to about 20 minutes. Be sure to negotiate the price and confirm the departure time before boarding.
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Tour Operator
Another convenient option is to book a tour package that includes transport to Bunaken. Many hotels and tour operators in Manado offer packages that include a guided trip to Bunaken, often with snorkeling or diving included. Inquire at your accommodation or local tourist information centers for recommendations on trusted operators. This option can be more hassle-free and ensures you have everything arranged for your trip.
Discover more about Bunaken
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bunaken Oasis Dive Resort and Spa
0.6 km
Discover the ultimate blend of relaxation and adventure at Bunaken Oasis Dive Resort and Spa, where the beauty of North Sulawesi awaits.
Balai Taman Nasional Bunaken
0.9 km
Explore Balai Taman Nasional Bunaken, North Sulawesi's premier destination for diving, snorkeling, and experiencing rich marine biodiversity.
Bastianos Bunaken Dive Resort
1.0 km
Experience the ultimate diving getaway at Bastianos Bunaken Dive Resort, where vibrant marine life meets luxurious comfort in stunning North Sulawesi.
Panorama Backpackers
1.4 km
Experience the stunning underwater beauty and vibrant culture of Bunaken Island while enjoying a cozy stay at Panorama Backpackers.
Bunaken Island Dive Resort
1.5 km
Explore the vibrant underwater life and breathtaking beauty of Bunaken Island Dive Resort, a diver's paradise in Indonesia's stunning marine park.
Panorama Dive Resort
1.5 km
Experience the beauty of Bunaken at Panorama Dive Resort, where adventure meets tranquility in North Sulawesi's marine paradise.
Mamaling Resort Bunaken
1.7 km
Experience the beauty of Bunaken National Marine Park at Mamaling Resort, a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in a tropical paradise.
Bunaken Cha Cha Nature Resort
1.8 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Bunaken Cha Cha Nature Resort, a serene getaway in Indonesia's stunning marine paradise, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Living Colours Diving Resort
2.3 km
Experience the wonders of Bunaken at Living Colours Diving Resort, where adventure meets tranquility in a stunning tropical paradise.
Bunaken Sea Garden Dive Resort
2.6 km
Discover the vibrant underwater world and tranquil beauty at Bunaken Sea Garden Dive Resort in Indonesia's stunning marine paradise.
Two Fish Divers Bunaken
2.8 km
Discover the underwater wonders of Bunaken with Two Fish Divers, your gateway to an extraordinary diving adventure in North Sulawesi.
The Village Bunaken Resort
2.8 km
Experience paradise at The Village Bunaken Resort, where stunning nature meets luxurious comfort and unforgettable underwater adventures await.
Bunaken Beach Resort
2.9 km
Discover the beauty of Bunaken Beach Resort, where stunning marine life meets tranquil island relaxation, perfect for every nature lover.
Bunaken Kuskus Resort
2.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Bunaken Kuskus Resort, your gateway to unforgettable diving experiences and serene coastal relaxation in Indonesia.
Jonaths Cottage Bunaken
3.2 km
Discover the tranquility of Jonath's Cottage Bunaken, a serene lodging option nestled in the breathtaking Bunaken National Marine Park, ideal for adventure and relaxation.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bunaken Island
0.0 km
Explore the vibrant underwater world and tranquil landscapes of Bunaken Island, a top destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts in Indonesia.
Villa cocoblue bunaken
0.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and vibrant marine life at Villa Cocoblue Bunaken, a tropical paradise in North Sulawesi.
Taman Nasional Bunaken
0.8 km
Explore Bunaken National Park, a marine paradise in North Sulawesi, Indonesia, offering stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life for an unforgettable underwater adventure.
Bunaken National Marine Park
0.8 km
Explore the vibrant underwater world and lush landscapes of Bunaken National Marine Park, a premier diving destination in North Sulawesi, Indonesia.
Pantai keluarga
1.1 km
Explore Pantai Keluarga, a stunning beach in Bunaken renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and serene landscapes perfect for relaxation.
Duiklocatie Celah Celah
1.3 km
Explore the underwater wonders of Celah Celah in Bunaken Marine Park, where colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life await every adventurer.
Pangalisan
2.2 km
Explore Pangalisan, the jewel of Bunaken National Marine Park, where vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs await adventure seekers.
Duiklocatie Fukui Point
2.4 km
Experience the breathtaking underwater beauty of Fukui Point, a top diving destination in Manado, North Sulawesi, known for its vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs.
Bunaken Marine Park
2.5 km
Explore the vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life of Bunaken Marine Park, a tropical paradise in North Sulawesi, Indonesia.
Spot snorkeling
3.1 km
Discover the underwater treasures of Bunaken, a snorkeling haven with vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of marine life in North Sulawesi.
Duiklocatie Mandolin Point
3.2 km
Explore the vibrant underwater ecosystems and breathtaking beauty of Mandolin Point in North Sulawesi, a diver’s paradise waiting to be discovered.
Jance harimisa
3.6 km
Explore Jance Harimisa in Bunaken, a breathtaking tourist attraction known for its stunning marine life, vibrant coral reefs, and serene natural beauty.
New Bunaken Jetty
3.9 km
Explore the breathtaking underwater marvels at New Bunaken Jetty, the gateway to Bunaken National Marine Park's vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Meivan
4.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Siladen Island, a tranquil paradise in North Sulawesi, perfect for relaxation and underwater adventures.
Siladen Island
4.8 km
Experience the pristine beauty and vibrant marine life of Siladen Island in North Sulawesi, a tranquil paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Essential places to dine
Restoran Nelson Bunaken
0.7 km
Experience the rich flavors of Indonesia at Restoran Nelson Bunaken - where local cuisine meets stunning natural beauty.
Two Fish Resort Bunaken
2.7 km
Experience unforgettable diving adventures and serene relaxation at Two Fish Resort on Bunaken Island's stunning coastline.
Kios warda
3.4 km
Experience authentic Indonesian cuisine at Kios Warda, the go-to Bakso restaurant in scenic Bunaken.
Arto Moro Bunaken
3.8 km
Discover culinary delights at Arto Moro Bunaken – where local flavors meet stunning views in paradise.
Nasi kuning tante Ama
12.3 km
Experience authentic Indonesian flavors at Nasi Kuning Tante Ama in Molas - where every bite tells a story.
NASGOR MEGILAN MAS CHUL
13.6 km
Experience authentic Indonesian flavors at Nasgor Megilan Mas Chul, where every plate is a celebration of local cuisine in Manado.
RM Hartil
15.0 km
Discover authentic Padang cuisine at RM Hartil in Bunaken - where every dish tells a story of rich Indonesian heritage.
WARUNG Konro DAENG
15.0 km
Experience the authentic flavors of South Sulawesi at WARUNG Konro DAENG—your destination for traditional konro soup and more in Manado.
Rumah Saroji
15.2 km
Experience authentic Manadonese cuisine at Rumah Saroji - where every dish is a flavorful journey through Indonesia's culinary heritage.
Tuna House Bitung Karangria
15.6 km
Experience authentic Indonesian seafood cuisine at Tuna House Bitung Karangria in Manado City - where fresh flavors meet local tradition.
Dabu Dabu Lemong | Ikan Bakar Khas Manado
15.8 km
Discover authentic Manado cuisine at Dabu Dabu Lemong - home of delicious Ikan Bakar and vibrant local flavors.
Rm.Pinggiran KMP
15.8 km
Experience authentic Indonesian flavors at Rm.Pinggiran KMP in Manado - where tradition meets taste!
Mie Ba Tahuna ko emon
16.0 km
Discover authentic Indonesian cuisine at Mie Ba Tahuna in Manado City - a culinary journey filled with rich flavors and warm hospitality.
Tampa Makang Ci Ida
16.0 km
Discover the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine at Tampa Makang Ci Ida in Manado City, where every dish tells a story.
d’SunSet
16.1 km
Experience the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine at d’SunSet, a top-rated bakso restaurant in Manado City offering authentic meatball soup delights.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Vanrio
1.0 km
Discover the charm of Vanrio, a local general store in Bunaken Kepulauan, offering unique souvenirs and a taste of North Sulawesi's vibrant culture.
Pulau Bunaken
1.2 km
Experience the breathtaking marine life and serene beauty of Pulau Bunaken, a paradise for divers and nature lovers in North Sulawesi.
Ralldy + Tessa + Queen
1.9 km
Discover unique home decor and authentic souvenirs at Ralldy + Tessa + Queen, a charming store in Bunaken, Manado City, North Sulawesi.
Bunaken Scuba Dive
2.9 km
Explore the breathtaking underwater world of Bunaken with Bunaken Scuba Dive, a top destination for divers and marine enthusiasts in North Sulawesi.
Warung Sembako Taufan
3.3 km
Explore the authentic charm of Bunaken at Warung Sembako Taufan, your go-to general store for local goods and delightful interactions.
Amat
3.4 km
Explore Amat in Bunaken for local treasures and convenient finds on your North Sulawesi adventure.
Kios magdalena & estevanus & maria bunaken
3.8 km
Discover local flavors at Kios Magdalena & Estevanus & Maria, your ideal refreshment stop in the stunning Bunaken National Park.
Indomaret Raya molas tongkaina
8.4 km
Discover everyday essentials and local delights at Indomaret Raya Molas Tongkaina, your essential convenience store in the heart of Bunaken, North Sulawesi.
Manado Ecocrafts
8.6 km
Explore the unique craftsmanship of North Sulawesi at Manado Ecocrafts, where every purchase supports local artisans and celebrates cultural heritage.
Kios Pingkan J
12.4 km
Explore the charm of Kios Pingkan J, a beloved general store in Bunaken, offering local goods and a taste of community spirit.
As Shop
13.6 km
Explore As Shop in Bunaken for a unique shopping experience filled with local crafts, authentic cuisine, and vibrant culture.
Galeri sen
13.7 km
Explore Galeri Sen in Bunaken for authentic local crafts and a taste of North Sulawesi's vibrant culture.
Mila shop
14.0 km
Explore Mila Shop in Bunaken for unique women's clothing that blends culture and contemporary fashion in North Sulawesi.
Fotocopy Chelsy Home
14.1 km
Discover the essentials at Fotocopy Chelsy Home, your go-to convenience store in Bunaken, Manado for all your travel needs.
Ungke Deon
14.1 km
Discover the essence of Bunaken at Ungke Deon, where delicious coffee meets a tranquil atmosphere in North Sulawesi's stunning landscape.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rental mercy
0.9 km
Experience authentic Indonesian cuisine at Rental Mercy, a culinary gem in Bunaken Island, offering breathtaking views and delightful local flavors.
Blue Parrot Beach Cafe
2.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of Blue Parrot Beach Cafe, where beachside dining meets breathtaking views in Bunaken National Park.
Bunaken cafe n resto
3.0 km
Experience local flavors and breathtaking views at Bunaken Cafe n Resto, a must-visit destination for every traveler in Bunaken.
Meeting Point' Resto And Cafe
3.8 km
Discover the flavors of Bunaken Island at Meeting Point' Resto And Cafe, where authentic Indonesian cuisine meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Restaurant Nemo
3.8 km
Experience the flavors of North Sulawesi at Restaurant Nemo, where stunning ocean views meet exquisite local cuisine on Bunaken Island.
The Tandjoeng
3.9 km
Discover The Tandjoeng: A vibrant beach bar in Bunaken serving refreshing drinks and stunning ocean views, perfect for relaxation.
Seho Cafe, Grand Luley Hotel
7.8 km
Discover the flavors of North Sulawesi at Seho Cafe, located in the Grand Luley Hotel, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and culinary delights.
Atlantis PUB & KARAOKE
16.9 km
Experience unforgettable nights at Atlantis PUB & KARAOKE in Manado City, where music, drinks, and local culture come together for a vibrant nightlife experience.
1 Up Cafe & Beer
17.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Manado at 1 Up Cafe & Beer, where great drinks and local flavors create an unforgettable experience.
VINES Manado
17.1 km
Experience the elegance of VINES Manado, where fine wines and craft cocktails meet a sophisticated ambiance in North Sulawesi.
HWG Gold Dragon Bar Manado
17.3 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Manado at HWG Gold Dragon Bar, where exceptional drinks and vibrant music create an unforgettable experience.
Orchid Lounge & Cocktail Bar
17.3 km
Experience the serene ambiance and tropical flavors at Orchid Lounge & Cocktail Bar in Manado's Sintesa Peninsula Hotel.
GLAMOUR bar & club
17.4 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at GLAMOUR Bar & Club, where vibrant energy meets delicious cuisine in the heart of Manado.
D'BIG
17.4 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at D'BIG Resto & Cafe, where delicious food and refreshing drinks meet a lively atmosphere in the heart of Manado.
BLUE CASTLE (Bar & Lounge)
17.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Manado at Blue Castle Bar & Lounge, where exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere await.
