
Bunaken, Indonesia, is a scuba diver’s paradise. This small island is nestled in the gorgeous Bay of Manado. Surrounded by pristine waters, it offers an impressive array of 20 diverse dive spots, overflowing with rich marine life. Bunaken National Park boasts a beautiful marine park which is accessible by motorboat, where you can encounter 13 coral reef species and up to 91 different fish species.
With so many things to offer, it’s no surprise that Bunaken is a haven for scuba divers and marine enthusiasts alike. To ensure a complete scuba diving experience, consider staying at one of the top dive resorts on the island. Scroll down to find the best dive resorts in Bunaken, Indonesia.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to diving spots, equipment, and diver education. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on December 28, 2024.
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1. Bunaken Oasis Dive Resort and Spa; Liang Beach
Fantastic food with amazing views, though slightly pricey compared to local options.
Luxury pricing, worth the splurge for top quality resort experience.
Heavenly location in Bunaken, ideal for diving enthusiasts seeking unparalleled beauty.
5-star service, superb diving facilities, stunning views, and comfortable accommodations.
Discover the perfect way to explore the deep waters of Manado Bay at this luxurious dive resort in Bunaken. This exceptional 5-star resort provides a memorable experience while offering a dive classroom for diving enthusiasts to learn and hone their skills.
For those passionate about underwater photography, the resort is a paradise. Featuring a spacious camera room equipped with multiple charging points, it caters to the needs of avid photographers. With these convenient amenities, guests can effortlessly dive deep and explore the captivating marine life, capturing stunning underwater moments.
Reflecting the beauty of Indonesian culture, the resort showcases 12 traditional-style villas. After an exhilarating underwater adventure, get a rejuvenating spa massage or unwind by the outdoor infinity pool, providing a serene retreat for relaxation.
2. Bastianos Bunaken Dive Resort; Liang Beach (from USD 83)
Experience the thrill of a guided marine tour led by professional divers at this lovely resort. With many diving spots nearby, Bastianos Bunaken Dive Resort features an abundance of underwater wonders. Equipped with a Dive Centre and a team of skilled divers, the resort enables you to explore stunning coral reefs filled with aquatic species such as damselfish, fusiliers, butterflyfish and even green and hawksbill turtles.
Even if you’re new to diving, the resort provides beginner’s lessons to help you out. Non-divers can engage in snorkelling adventures or join dolphin trips arranged by the resort. To unwind after an exhausting underwater experience, indulge in relaxation at the resort’s bar or spa, rejuvenating your senses.
3. Bunaken Cha Cha Nature Resort; Buro Beach
Delicious and diverse homemade meals, including Japanese, Italian, French, and local dishes.
Reasonable rates for spacious ocean villas with private terraces.
Magnificent ocean views, serene and secluded setting in Bunaken National Marine Park.
Excellent snorkeling directly from the beach, helpful staff, and cozy communal dining.
For an extraordinary experience discovering the diverse coral reefs and marine life of the island, you can choose to stay at this luxurious dive resort. Catering to divers, the resort offers a range of dive tours from early morning until night.
Photographers will definitely be delighted by the abundance of marine life, including rays, pygmy seahorses, barracudas and more, providing multiple chances to capture wonderful moments. If diving is not your preference, you can opt to go snorkelling instead.
After your underwater adventures, unwind in the comfort of your exquisite villa or treat yourself to delectable local flavours at the on-site restaurant. Whether you seek thrilling dives or enchanting snorkelling experiences, Bunaken Cha Cha Nature Resort promises a remarkable stay in Bunaken.
4. Raja Laut Dive Resort Bunaken; Pangalisan Beach
Delicious, diverse meals with vegetarian options available. Friendly staff and a great dining atmosphere.
Reasonable pricing for comfortable bungalows and delicious meals. Diving and snorkeling equipment rentals can be expensive.
Idyllic location with fantastic snorkeling and diving right in front of the resort. Easy access from the jetty and a serene, rural area nearby.
Great dive equipment, attentive staff, and beautiful, clean bungalows. Limited beach access and some noise from the road in bungalows without AC.
If your preference leans more towards underwater adventures, then Raja Laut Dive Resort Bunaken is for you. This lovely resort caters to your passion while maintaining affordability. It boasts a well-equipped dive centre that houses all the necessary diving gear. In addition, experienced European divers are on hand to assist you in uncovering the hidden treasures beneath the waves.
The resort offers a range of services, including daily and on-demand dive trips. Each small group of three to four divers is accompanied by a knowledgeable guide. Snorkelling guides are also available for those who prefer exploring the surface. For enhanced safety, NITROX 32 is provided at an additional cost.
Among the numerous dive sites, Bunaken Timur is conveniently situated right in front of the resort.
5. Froggies Divers Resort; Pantai Liang
This exquisite resort presents an array of PADI diving courses, catering to both beginners and advanced divers - making it an idyllic haven for deep-sea enthusiasts. Even if you are unfamiliar with scuba diving, Froggies Divers Resort provides an opportunity to learn and indulge in thrilling underwater escapades. Boasting 30 dive spots encircling the island and conveniently providing diving gear on-site, you can delve into the ocean’s treasures with ease.
What sets this resort apart is its occasional muck diving excursions along the coast of North Sulawesi. This unique experience allows you to witness organisms rarely encountered in clear waters. After engaging in invigorating underwater activities, you can unwind with a rejuvenating spa treatment, providing relaxation upon your return from thrilling adventures.
Froggies Divers Resort
Address: Pantai Liang, Tanjung Parigi Lingkungan 6, Kelurahan Bunaken, Kecamatan Bunaken, Bunaken Island, Manado, Indonesia, 95264
6. Bunaken Sea Garden Resort; Pangalisang Beach (from USD 31)
Delicious and plentiful meals, excellent food from breakfast to dinner, opportunity to swim with big turtles
Affordable lodgings & gear rental, transport to Bunaken island available at scheduled times
Fantastic location by the reef, walk to local villages and beach, great for snorkeling and boat trips
Spectacular house reef for snorkeling, easy transport pickups via WhatsApp
Situated in a quaint setting, this intimate resort boasts a well-equipped dive centre staffed with professional guides and divers. The experienced guides are dedicated to assisting underwater photographers and videographers in capturing the finest shots of marine life. While the standard dive trips happen in the mornings and afternoons, the resort can also accommodate night dives upon request.
While marvelling at the mesmerizing marine creatures is given, one of the resort’s standout diving experiences is the opportunity for deep exploration of a shipwreck near a harbour. Moreover, the resort organizes snorkelling excursions and dolphin tours for added enjoyment.
For your comfortable stay, the resort offers luxurious cottage suites and other traditional, Minahasa-style accommodations. Furthermore, the daily menu showcases a variety of traditional dishes.
7. Panorama Backpackers; Liang Beach
Catering to backpackers, this resort embodies its name, offering an ideal destination for budget-conscious travellers seeking a vibrant community atmosphere. The resort allows backpackers to forge connections with like-minded individuals while enjoying a cosy, home-like environment, all at an affordable price. Aptly named, the resort treats guests to breathtaking panoramic vistas of neighbouring islands and majestic volcanoes.
Within a mere 5 to 25 minutes journey from the resort, numerous dive spots await, providing unparalleled diving experiences under the guidance of professional divers. The resort boasts a well-equipped dive centre overseen by an experienced European instructor. Prepare to witness and capture an array of marine marvels here.
8. The Village Bunaken; Paitai Pangalisang (from USD 116)
The resort’s dive centre boasts meticulously maintained, high-quality equipment, ensuring a reliable and enjoyable diving experience. Even individuals with myopia can partake in diving, as the dive centre provides myopia masks. Prior to venturing into the ocean, you will receive training in a swimming pool to enhance your confidence. The language will not pose a barrier, as the resort provides multilingual instructors to guide you through the process.
In addition to the captivating presence of whales and dolphins, a special treat awaits every full moon as dugongs appear near the reef in front of the resort. Furthermore, AOW-certified divers have the opportunity to visit the Molas Shipwreck site.
9. Two Fish Resort Bunaken; Pangalisang Beach (from USD 59)
Located in the enchanting archipelago of Indonesia, Two Divers Resort in Bunaken stands as a haven for diving enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable underwater adventure. The resort boasts a team of highly skilled and certified diving instructors who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and ensuring the safety and enjoyment of every guest.
Whether you’re a beginner eager to take your first plunge into the mesmerizing world beneath the waves or a seasoned diver seeking new challenges, the resort offers a range of programs and courses for everyone. With easy access to the stunning dive sites, guests can explore a mesmerizing underwater world teeming with vibrant marine life such as fusiliers, sweetlips, damselfish and much more. When you are done diving, you can savour delicious Indonesian cuisine at the restaurant.
10. Living Colours Diving Resort; Pantai Pangalisang
This charming dive resort offers 10 wooden bungalows, providing a picturesque setting. With a well-equipped dive centre and experienced diving professionals, you can immerse yourself in the company of diverse marine life. Dugongs and sea cows await your presence underwater. Bunaken’s dive sites are a paradise for underwater photographers and videographers, and the resort offers camera rentals for those without their own equipment.
Professional guides ensure memorable experiences, whether you choose snorkelling or muck diving. If you’re not yet a diver, the resort offers beginner-level PADI courses for you to learn and become certified. After a day of exhilarating water adventures, the beach bar serves as an ideal spot to unwind and relax in the evening, allowing you to savour the memories created.
Living Colours Diving Resort
Address: Pantai Pangalisang, Pulau Bunaken, Bunaken Kepulauan, Manado City, North Sulawesi 95111, Indonesia
Star Rating: 2 Star
Travelers Review: 4.5 (from 45 reviews)
Prepare yourself for an immersive diving experience
For water enthusiasts and explorers of the underwater realm, Bunaken is the perfect destination. Whether you’re an adventurous diver or a marine biologist, the dive spots surrounding Bunaken offer unparalleled experiences. Before embarking on your visit to this exquisite island, consult this article to discover the top dive resorts in Bunaken, Indonesia.
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