While Bunaken National Park justly holds its fame as a world-class diving destination, the marine wonders of North Sulawesi stretch far Beyond Bunaken. This diverse province in Indonesia offers a plethora of equally stunning, yet often less crowded, underwater havens waiting to be explored by avid divers and snorkelers. Venturing Beyond Bunaken reveals a richer tapestry of marine ecosystems, from unique muck diving sites to vibrant coral gardens. For those seeking new underwater adventures, looking Beyond Bunaken is highly rewarding. A recent report from the North Sulawesi Tourism Board, dated June 25, 2025, indicated a growing interest in dive sites Beyond Bunaken among repeat visitors to the region, highlighting their increasing popularity.
One of the most renowned areas Beyond Bunaken is the Lembeh Strait, often hailed as the “Muck Diving Capital of the World.” This narrow stretch of water is not about pristine corals or large pelagics, but rather about incredible macro marine life. Divers here can discover a fascinating array of unusual and rare creatures, including mimic octopuses, flamboyant cuttlefish, hairy frogfish, and various species of nudibranchs. The volcanic sand slopes and rich currents create a unique habitat for these masters of camouflage, making every dive a treasure hunt for photographers. On May 10, 2025, a macro photography workshop led by acclaimed underwater photographer Mr. John Davis in Lembeh Strait yielded stunning images of several rarely seen species, confirming its biodiversity.
Another gem located Beyond Bunaken is the Bangka Island region. Situated north of Manado, Bangka offers a beautiful mix of hard and soft coral reefs, teeming with schools of fish. Its vibrant reefs and healthy marine ecosystems provide a stark contrast to the muck diving of Lembeh, appealing to divers who enjoy more traditional reef exploration. Divers can often spot reef sharks, barracudas, and even occasional dugongs in its clear waters. Resorts in Bangka, which often operate small, intimate dive groups, focus on sustainable tourism, ensuring minimal impact on the fragile environment.
The Sangihe and Talaud Islands, further north, represent an even more remote frontier, offering unexplored reefs and volcanic underwater topography for the truly adventurous. These areas promise pristine conditions and a chance to discover untouched marine wonders. From the bizarre creatures of Lembeh to the classic reefs of Bangka, North Sulawesi truly offers a diverse and captivating underwater landscape that extends far Beyond Bunaken, inviting exploration and discovery.