Bunaken is most famous for its great dive spots. In the resort we have our own dive centre that can bring you to every dive site around the island. But there is more to do!
Bunaken is home to one of the most diverse coral reefs in the world, with hundreds of different corals and thousands of fish species. Most of this incredible underwater life is just beneath the surface, so you don't need to dive to experience the beauty of the reef. Snorkeling alone will give you a wide variety of amazing marine life to see.
Cakalang has beautiful coral reefs right in front of the resort. But if you'd like to explore more, you can rent a boat to visit reefs that are a little farther away. Another great option is to join the divers on the boat, especially if you are traveling together with divers. It's a fun and exciting experience for everyone!
Ofcouse you can rent all snorkel equipment at Cakalang, but feel free to bring your own.
Experience a beautiful sunset from the open sea. We’ll take you on a boat ride to a perfect spot on the water, where you can watch the sun set over the ocean in a breathtaking display of colors. See how quickly the sun disappears into the blue waters, marking the end of another perfect day. For an even more unforgettable experience, enjoy live music and some drrinks and snacks on board as you take in this daily natural spectacle.
This tour starts at 17:00 and lasts approximately 2 hours. It’s a great way to end a perfect day on your holiday.
Bunaken has three villages, with the main village sharing the same name as the island. This village is home to both a Muslim and Christian community with churches and a mosque. You’ll find a few simple local eateries and small shops, but options are very limited. It’s just a nice 15-minute walk away from Cakalang.
Although Bunaken may be a small island, it offers some truly enjoyable opportunities for those who love to explore on foot or by (motor)bike. A walk from the main village to the other side of the island takes about two hours. The first half hour takes you past the resorts along the east coast. Then the path gently curves and leads you through lush jungle for about 30 minutes, bringing you to the next village (Tanjung Parigi). Here, you can walk down to the south side of the island, where you’ll find a long beach which is very popular with local tourists. You’ll also find a few local shops where you can purchase souvenirs. If you're up for more, continue on the path through the narrowest part of the island. This stretch takes you to the highest point of Bunaken, where you'll be treated to stunning views. From here, it’s another hour of walking until you reach Alung Banua, the last village on the island. This walk or ride is a great way to see the natural beauty of Bunaken and experience the peaceful atmosphere of the island.
In addition to exploring the stunning underwater world of Bunaken and the island itself, the region offers plenty of other activities to extend your vacation. Within a short journey from Bunaken, you can enjoy various experiences such as:
• Visit Manado: The vibrant city of Manado offers lively markets, shopping centres, and local eateries.
• Local Villages: Explore nearby traditional villages and experience the local culture and way of life.
• Tangkoko Nature Reserve: Take a trek through this nature reserve and spot rare animals such as the black macaque, tarsiers, and other native species. A lot of animals you can only see here and nowhere else in the world.
• Tomohon: This charming mountain town, located about 1.5 hours from Bunaken, is known for its cool climate, volcanic lakes, waterfalls and scenic hiking trails. Visit the markets of Tomohon to find local products and unique spices, or hike up the active Lokon Volcano for panoramic views.
We can help with all your plans!