November 19, 2025 | 08:09 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Tomini Bay is an essential marine destination and the largest bay in Indonesia. Spanning an immense 137,700 square kilometers with a coastline of 1,350 kilometers, the bay stretches across three provinces: Central Sulawesi, Gorontalo, and North Sulawesi. It encompasses around 90 small islands rich in marine biodiversity.
Tomini Bay is often referred to as the heart of the Coral Triangle due to its vast coral reefs covering more than 1,000 hectares. These reefs serve as a critical habitat for hundreds of endemic coral species and marine organisms.
The Togean Islands are the main icon of this area, renowned for mesmerizing underwater beauty, including the unique non-stinging jellyfish in Lake Mariona and pristine mangrove forests.
Exploring the Enchantment of Tomini Bay
As reported on the official website of the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, the region boasts more than 210 world-class diving spots:
- Olele Marine Park: Home to the phenomenal Salvador Coral and the rare Blue Fan Coral.
- Bitila and Buyat Marine Parks: Showcase rare endemic sponge corals.
The bay's enchantment is further amplified by its numerous small islands, such as Lahe, Kima, Bitila, Mohupomba, and Camar Islands, as well as the unique, heart-shaped Cinta Island with its iconic floating resort. The soft white sandy beaches, clear blue-green waters, and captivating sunset views establish Tomini Bay as an idyllic and relatively untouched ecotourism destination.
Access to Tomini Bay
According to Traveloka, there are several convenient routes to reach the area:
- By Air (Most Practical): Travelers can take a direct flight from Sam Ratulangi International Airport, Manado, to Djalaluddin Airport, Gorontalo. Upon arrival, the journey continues via conventional or app-based taxi services to destinations around the bay or to chosen accommodations.
- By Sea: Regular ferry services are available to Pelabuhan Togean. These ferries typically stop at several main islands, with Wakai serving as the primary port of entry for most visitors.
Visitors are strongly advised to check ferry departure schedules in advance, as frequency and routes are subject to change depending on weather conditions and seasons. Once in Wakai, the final leg of the journey is completed by a small boat to the designated resort. Most resorts in the Togean Islands offer free pick-up services from Wakai, provided the management receives arrival details beforehand.
Tomini Bay Festival
To preserve the rich traditions and culture of the local fishermen, the Tomini Bay Festival will be held again on November 20-22, 2025. Under the theme 'A Gift From The Sea,' this festival brings together tourists, local communities, and nature enthusiasts. Activities include cultural parades, traditional boat races, coastal culinary bazaars, and art performances from various regions in Sulawesi.
Contributor: Putri Az zahra Suherman
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