Bunaken Marine Park (Manado) FAQs In 2026 - 2027

Bunaken Marine Park, also known as Bunaken National Marine Park, is a marine conservation area located in North Sulawesi, Indonesia. Established in 1991, the park covers a total area of over 890 square kilometers, both marine and terrestrial, encompassing the Bunaken island group and adjacent waters. It's renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, stunning coral reefs, and exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities.

Bunaken Marine Park is situated near the city of Manado, in the Bay of Manado, in the northern part of Sulawesi Island, Indonesia.

Visitors can fly to Sam Ratulangi International Airport in Manado, and from there, take a boat from one of the city's ports to Bunaken Island. The boat ride usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the port of departure and the boat speed.

The major attractions of Bunaken Marine Park include its incredibly diverse marine life with over 70 different coral species and more than 2,000 species of fish, dramatic wall dives, clear waters with visibility often exceeding 30 meters, and the chance to see larger pelagic species as well as tiny pygmy seahorses and nudibranchs.

The best time to visit the park for diving and snorkeling is during the dry season, which typically runs from April to November. During these months, the seas are calmer and underwater visibility is at its best.

Yes, visitors are required to purchase a park entrance tag from dive operators, some resorts, or at the park's offices. The tag is a contribution towards conservation efforts and is mandatory for all visitors engaging in marine activities.

There are a variety of accommodation options on Bunaken Island ranging from budget homestays to luxury resorts. Many of these establishments cater specifically to divers and snorkelers, offering inclusive packages with guided tours.

Diving in Bunaken Marine Park is suitable for all levels of divers, from beginners to advanced. If you are not certified, many dive resorts offer certification courses, including PADI Open Water courses.

Conservation efforts in the park include regulated tourism, controlled fishing zones, regular patrolling to prevent illegal activities, research and monitoring of marine biodiversity, and community-based conservation programs to involve local residents in preserving their natural environment.

Absolutely! Non-divers can enjoy snorkeling, which still affords encounters with a wide variety of marine life, or relax on the beautiful beaches. Boat tours around the islands are also available to appreciate the scenic landscapes.