When you think of diving in Indonesia, places like Nusa Lembongan, Raja Ampat and the Gili islands might come to mind, but there's a hidden gem just off the coast of Sulawesi that’s perfect for both novice divers and seasoned underwater enthusiasts. My recent trip to Kuda Laut Resort on Siladen Island, near Bunaken National Park, was an experience I’ll never forget. If you're wondering where the best diving in Indonesia is, Siladen should be on your list.

Getting to Siladen Island: A Journey Worth the Effort
The adventure started with a flight to Manado, Sulawesi, where I was met by the Kuda Laut Resort team. From there, I was driven about an hour to a jetty, where the journey to Siladen Island began. The boat ride took roughly 30 minutes, but the tides determine how long the trip will take. As we made our way across the crystal-clear waters, I could already sense that this island would be something special.
Siladen Island itself is tiny, with an area of just around 4 square kilometers and a population of about 300 residents. Despite its small size, the island offers a rich, unforgettable experience with stunning natural beauty and exceptional diving opportunities.
Kuda Laut Resort: A Comfortable, Eco-Friendly Dive Base
The Kuda Laut Resort, meaning "seahorse" in Bahasa Indonesia, offers a blend of rustic charm and modern comforts. The resort's diving center, Celebes Divers, is an integral part of the resort and is where I spent most of my time while earning my Open Water certification. As part of the course, I explored some of the most beautiful reefs in the world, all while knowing I was in great hands with my dive master, Luther. He was incredibly patient and thorough, guiding me through every step of the certification process.
The resort itself is peaceful and cozy. My room was spacious and beautifully designed, with a rustic vibe that felt warm and welcoming. The best part? The views from my room were simply breathtaking. The resort serves three meals a day, all of which were delicious and fresh, offering a taste of local Indonesian flavors. The staff was also a highlight—welcoming and always ready to share their knowledge about the island and its unique biodiversity.
Diving in Indonesia: Bunaken National Park
For anyone interested in diving in Indonesia, Siladen Island is one of the best places to explore. Kuda Laut Resort is situated near Bunaken National Park, which is famous for its exceptional marine life and crystal-clear waters. I had the opportunity to dive in some of the park's most popular spots, where I saw an incredible variety of fish species, vibrant coral reefs, and even dolphins and pilot whales (during a sightseeing tour).
One of the highlights of my diving experience was encountering so many sea turtles. Whether swimming gracefully or resting on along the reef, these beautiful creatures were an absolute joy to observe. It’s not every day that you get to share the water with so many sea turtles, and it truly felt magical each time one swam by. The underwater world here is teeming with life, and these turtles made the experience even more special.
Whether you're diving in Bunaken or exploring the underwater world off Siladen, the dive sites here offer everything from wall dives to shallow reefs. The biodiversity is mind-blowing, and the visibility underwater is often crystal clear, giving you the chance to see every detail of the marine life around you. It was such an amazing experience to be in the water with these majestic creatures.
In addition to diving, the resort offers snorkeling, and I found myself borrowing fins and a mask to explore the nearby coral gardens between dives. The resort’s location provides easy access to some of the best reefs in the region, and snorkeling is a fantastic way to enjoy the marine life if you’re not ready for a dive yet.
Exploring Siladen Island: A Small Island with a Big Heart
Over the course of my stay, I took the time to explore the island itself. Siladen is incredibly small, but it’s full of charm. There’s only one main path that leads to the other resort on the island, making it easy to walk around and enjoy the sights. What really stood out to me was how Kuda Laut Resort has kept its environmental footprint to a minimum. Their efforts to preserve the natural beauty of the island are evident in everything they do.
One of the initiatives I appreciated the most was their "One Bucket a Day, Keeps the Plastic Away" campaign. Guests are encouraged to pick up trash during their walks around the island, and it’s a great way to get everyone involved in keeping this paradise clean and pristine. The resort also runs a baby turtle sanctuary, where they raise turtle hatchlings for about a month before releasing them back into the wild. It’s a beautiful way to support marine conservation and protect the island’s delicate ecosystem.
Why Kuda Laut Resort is Perfect for Eco-Travellers and Divers
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly, authentic dive resort in Indonesia, Kuda Laut Resort is a top choice. The combination of world-class diving in the heart of Bunaken National Marine Park, sustainable practices, and the warm hospitality of the staff makes it an ideal destination for any eco-conscious traveler.
The resort’s approach to sustainability, along with the incredible diving, makes it one of the best places for diving in Sulawesi. Whether you’re diving in Bunaken or just relaxing on the island, every moment here felt special.
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