Indonesia’s Best Snorkeling Sites

There is so much in the Indonesian seas that is worth discovering, secluded atolls, otherworldly sea creatures, huge coral formations and crystalline waters. You don’t even need a diving license.

1. Cape Kri, Raja Ampat

This west Indonesian archipelago contains more marine bio-diversity than anywhere else in the world – more fish, more corals. Slip into the temperature waters of Raja Ampat’s beloved dive site. Cape Kri. Located about 50 kilometers north of Sorong amidst two large resorts on Kri Island, Cape Kri has long been known as one of the best dive sites in the world. But not many know that it is also ideal for snorkeling. Fin your way off the powder-white beach and discover schools of colorful fish. Once you get past the initial awe, this experience lacks no surprises. The ver fortune might even encounter one of the five species of gigantic Queensland groper, reputed to be as big as as small cars.


The waters that surround Raja Ampat have been confirmed by experts to have the most diverse marine life with thousands of fish species, six species of sea turtles and at least 450 species of coral, Even the Caribbean Islands have only up to 70 species. And during certain season, you might also meet much bigger marine mammals, like whales.

The coral Triangle is where all the marine life can be found. The triangle links the waters of Philippines to Bali to the Solomon Islands. Kri itself is at the heart of the triangle and is home to more than 3,000 species of reef fish and around 75% of the global coral reefs.

2. Pink Beach, Komodo Island
 

Komodo Island is not only known for being home to the world’s largest monitor lizards, the Komodo dragons, but it is also known for the high quality of its dive sites and underwater life as well. A short speedboat ride can take you to Pink Beach where you will encounter endless possibilities. Located near Komodo Island’s main Ranger;s Station in Long Liang, this beach has an interesting feature, its rose-colored sand that creates a picturesque setting of pink against the crystal clear blue ocean. Most days, this beach is relatively quiet without many visitors so it is the perfect hideaway.

3. Wakatobi, Southeast Sulawesi

The beauty of Wakatobi National Park can still be enjoyed by snorkeling. The shallow waters in many areas provide opportunities for snorkelers to encounter various species of marine life and coral. The snorkeling hot spot is nestled in the life rich tropical haven of the Banda Sea, and at almost any site in this small archipelago, you can wade in and explore one of the most captivating and bio-diverse underwater ecosystems on the planet. The 821 km2 area was originally known as Kepulauan Tukang Besi or Blackmith Islands which consists of four main islands, namely Wang-wangi, Kaledupa, Tomia, and Binongko. The combination of those four names therefore creates the name : WA-KA-TO-BI.

Wakatobi boasts around 25 clusters of pristine coral reefs with a vast variety of species, from hard shells and soft corals, sea plants coral fish, moluusks, sharks, to dolphin and even whales. Although you can dive and snorkel any time, it is most advisable to come in April and December when the waters are in their best condition with great visibility. It is recommended to use the service of travel providers to maximize tours, island exploration, guided snorkeling excursions and a trip a small island off Tomia, known as Onernobaa Island, which is also surrounded by enchanting underwater beauty.

4. Menjangan Island, Bali

Photo by Cipto Aji Gunawan

Menjangan Island is situated just a few kilometers from Bali‘s north beach. Thus region is a part of West Bali National Park.; hence it is one of the most protected diving and snorkeling sites in Bali. Those who have set foot on this island agree without a doubt that it is one the best marine attractions in Bali. The water is clear, calm, and rich with various underwater species. The soft corals here are the main stars with giant colorful sea fans adorning its steep walls. And where there are pelntiful soft corals, it means there is a vast amount of plankton, fish and other underwater species inhabiting the area.

5. Macan Island, North Jakarta


Macan Island or Tiger Island is located around 85 kilometers north of Jakarta in an area that administratively is still part of Jakarta. It is one of the Indonesian capital’s best weekend gateway, reachable by a 90 minutes boat ride from Taman Impian Jaya Ancol, North Jakarta’s famed theme park. An island in Kepulauan Seribu or Thousands Islands. Macan Island is an exotic and unique destinatins striving to promo eco-friendly technology and living in harmony with nature.

The amazing fact that a pristine white-sandy white beach, teeming coral gardens, and amazing panoramic views are just 90 minutes away from the bustling (and often highly polluted) capital city makes the island a perfect weekend gateway that not many know about it.

6. Karimunjawa Island, Central Java 

@trackpacking

Karimunjawa Island of dreamlike encounter happened more than once during our five days in September exploring Karimunjawa, an off-the-map spot with a population of about 10,000, many of whom still make a living from fishing and cultivating seaweed. The beauty of coral reefs and colorful fish become the main attraction for you who love to play in the water.