Discover the charm of Samalona Island in Makassar, a hidden paradise with stunning beach and underwater beauty, perfect for tourists seeking tranquility.
Samalona Island, a small island located off the coast of Makassar, South Sulawesi, has become one of the favorite tourist destinations for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
Despite its relatively small size, only about 2.34 hectares, Samalona Island offers unmatched beauty, especially with its white sandy beaches and clear sea water.
This island is perfect for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a calming tropical atmosphere. Let’s discuss more about Samalona Island, from its history to the various exciting activities you can do there!
History and Location of Samalona Island
Samalona Island is about 6.8 kilometers from the center of Makassar City, making it easy to reach by motorboat. For those looking for Things to do in Makassar, visiting Samalona Island is a fantastic option.
The trip to the island takes about 20 to 30 minutes from Kayu Bangkoa Port or Losari Beach, which is the starting point for tourists who want to explore the beauty of this island.
The island has a rich history, including stories about the remains of World War II. It is said that around the waters of Samalona Island there are wrecks of warships that sank during the war, and are now a favorite place for divers to explore and find the remains of history.
In addition, Samalona Island is also known as one of the small islands that are part of the Spermonde Islands which are located west of Makassar.
The Alluring Charm of Nature
The natural beauty of Samalona Island is beyond doubt. The island is surrounded by crystal clear blue sea, allowing visitors to see the seabed clearly. The soft white sand and gently sloping beach make it a perfect place for sunbathing or simply strolling along the coastline.
In addition, the coconut trees that grow lushly around the island provide a distinctive tropical atmosphere, making the atmosphere more comfortable and peaceful.
You can relax under the trees while enjoying the gentle sea breeze, or lie on the sand while enjoying the panoramic view of the expansive sea.
Fun Activities to Do on Samalona Island
Despite its small size, Samalona Island offers a variety of exciting activities that visitors can enjoy. Some of the most popular activities on the island include:
1. Snorkeling and Diving
Samalona Island is a paradise for water sports lovers, especially snorkeling and diving. The sea water around the island is very clear, allowing you to see the beauty of the underwater clearly.
The pristine coral reefs and various types of tropical fish make the snorkeling or diving experience on Samalona Island very impressive. In fact, if you are lucky, you can find sea turtles swimming around these waters.
If you have never dived before, don’t worry! On Samalona Island there are diving instructors ready to help you enjoy the beauty of the underwater world safely.
2. Witness the Enchanting Sunset
One of the attractions of Samalona Island that should not be missed is the view of the sunset. Enjoying the sunset on Samalona Island is a very romantic and calming experience. The reddish orange sky combined with the calm sea water, creating a stunning view.
3. Tour this Exotic Island by Boat
If you want to see the beauty of Samalona Island from a different perspective, you can rent a small boat and go around the island. This is a fun way to enjoy the view of the island from a distance, while feeling the fresh sea breeze.
4. Camping on the Beach
For adventurers who love the outdoors, you can also camp on the beach. The soothing sound of the waves and the starry sky at night will make the camping experience on Samalona Island unforgettable.
Facilities on Samalona Island
Although Samalona Island is relatively small and is considered an island that has not been fully developed commercially, there are some basic facilities provided for tourists.
There are simple lodgings that can be rented if you want to spend the night on this island. These lodgings are usually wooden houses located near the beach, providing an atmosphere that blends with nature.
In addition, there are food stalls that provide fresh seafood. You can taste typical dishes such as grilled fish or other fresh seafood cooked directly by local residents. The delicious taste will certainly pamper your tongue after a day of activities on the island.
But remember, facilities on Samalona Island are still limited, so you should bring personal needs such as drinking water, snacks, and medicines if needed.
How to Get to Samalona Island
To reach Samalona Island, you need to rent a boat from Kayu Bangkoa Harbor or Losari Beach in Makassar. The boat trip usually takes 20-30 minutes, depending on weather conditions and waves.
Boat rental rates vary, but generally range from IDR 300,000 to IDR 500,000, depending on the agreement with the boat owner. These boats can usually accommodate up to 10 people, so if you go with a group, the rental fee can be shared.
It is recommended to leave in the morning so that you have enough time to enjoy all the activities on Samalona Island before returning to Makassar in the afternoon.
Travel Tips to Samalona Island
To make your trip to Samalona Island even more enjoyable, here are some tips you need to pay attention to:
- Bring Your Own Snorkeling Gear : Although there are snorkeling gear rentals on the island, if you have your own gear, it is best to bring it for your own convenience.
- Bring Cash : Facilities on the island are very limited, and there are no ATMs. Make sure you bring enough cash for necessities such as food and equipment rental.
- Keep It Clean: Always bring a plastic bag for your trash. Samalona Island is very beautiful, so make sure to keep it clean by not leaving trash around.
- Obey Local Rules : Always respect the rules that apply on the island and interact well with the locals.
Samalona Island is a tourist destination that offers the beauty of the underwater world, enchanting beaches, and various exciting activities that you can enjoy.
For those exploring Tourist Attractions in Maros, this island is a fantastic complement to your itinerary. With its location that is easily accessible from Makassar, Samalona Island is the right choice for tourists who want to enjoy the beauty of nature without having to go too far.
