If you’re looking ahead at where to travel in January for a tropical holiday, Turtle Beach on a South Sulawesi island in Wakatobi is one of the best places for coral reef snorkelling in Indonesia. And even though the weather isn’t great in other places in Indonesia, when you stay at Wakatobi Resort you’ll have sunny days, five-star service and fine-dining experiences.
Finding rare places in Indonesia
Sitting some 500 miles east of Bali, the Wakatobi region is home to Indonesia’s largest barrier reef – second in size only to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. It also has some of the world’s most bio-diverse marine ecosystems. Sitting in the heart of this natural paradise is Wakatobi Resort. Though remote, this boutique oasis of luxury is easy to reach, as the resort operates direct charter flights from Bali to a private airstrip.
The best snorkelling in Indonesia
The signature experience that lures travellers to this resort is the chance to float in warm, clear, tropical water while taking in the mesmerising sights of the underwater world. This is why divers and snorkellers from around the globe rate Wakatobi as a must-see destination.
The resort itself is surrounded by a private marine preserve that’s considered among the best on the planet. In fact, the signature House Reef has been named the world’s best shallow water dive and snorkel site.
You could easily spend multiple days exploring the best snorkelling in Indonesia and diving around the extensive coral heads and seagrass meadows of the House Reef. Guests can enlist the services of a private guide or take a “taxi boat” to reach more distant parts of the reef too. Guides have a deep knowledge of the unique marine life hidden among the corals. Additionally, guests who explore on their own have peace of mind knowing that the dive centre monitors the site throughout the day and evening.
Snorkellers can also visit dozens of additional sites in the marine preserve aboard Wakatobi’s large, comfortable day boats or reserve a private boat for a one-of-a-kind itinerary.
Stay on South Sulawesi’s Turtle Beach
Whether exploring underwater wonders or just relaxing on the shore, escaping the ordinary on a small, remote island doesn’t mean you have to go without creature comforts. When you visit Wakatobi in the post-holiday season you’ll still experience holiday-style luxury.
The resort has recently opened its new Turtle Beach Bungalows. These enlarged bungalows showcase rich wood interiors, four-poster beds with a white canopy, and a spacious front porch with a view of Turtle Beach. Enlarged ensuite bathrooms include double sinks, an Asian-style outdoor shower with two rainfall shower heads and a separate outdoor entrance, so you can wash off all the sand before coming inside.
The Turtle Beach Bungalows are ideal for families or couples looking for their own space, and they come with the bespoke services made possible by a ratio of five staff per guest.
If you’d like to visit this South Sulawesi island and stay on Wakatobi’s Turtle Beach, enquire at wakatobi.com or contact the team at office@wakatobi.com.
Enjoyed reading about where to travel in January and what it’s like staying on this South Sulawesi Island? Find more fantastic destinations and experiences in our Travel section.
