TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Seribu Islands local government believes that easy access to tourist destinations in the regency positively influences the number of tourists visiting the islands. This was conveyed by the Head of the Seribu Islands Regency Tourism and Creative Economy Sub-Department, Sonti Pangaribuan, in Jakarta on Friday, May 24, 2024.
Sonti added that apart from ease of access, the Seribu Islands offer a plethora of interesting tourist attractions, ranging from populated islands, resort islands, nature reserve islands, and other tourist islands.
Citing the official website of Jakarta, the Seribu Islands are part of the province, with an area of 4,745.62 km² consisting of 8.76 km² of land and more than 110 islands. The Seribu Islands are inhabited by residents of various ethnicities with diverse religious and cultural backgrounds. Additionally, the Seribu Islands also offer mesmerizing natural beauty that attracts domestic and international visitors. There are many islands to visit with various activities to do. Here are several must-visit islands in the Seribu Islands.
1. Bidadari Island
Bidadari Island is located 25 minutes away from Marina Ancol. This island is also known as Eco Resort Island because of its maintained environment. Here, you can find Dutch Fort Martello and enjoy typical island culinary delights. This island is also famous for its marine tourism, including snorkeling, fishing, canoeing, banana boating, and other water sports.
2. Onrust Island
Onrust Island is the right destination for lovers of archeology and Dutch colonial history. Located near Bidadari Island, this island used to be a transit point for Dutch ships heading to Batavia. Here, you can see historical buildings and relics, and visit the Onrust Archaeological Park Museum.
3. Macan Island
Macan Island is an ideal place for relaxation from the daily hustle and bustle. You can enjoy panoramic sunset views from your resort, sunbathe, stay at the clubhouse, and enjoy delicious cuisines. This island also supports nature conservation, where visitors can plant coral around Bidadari Island.
4. Ayer Island
Ayer Island, known as the "Pearl of the Islands," was once President Sukarno's personal retreat. You can stay in a floating cottage and enjoy various activities such as fishing, swimming, tennis, basketball, volleyball, surfing, canoeing, jet skiing, and banana boating in this island.
5. Putri Island
Putri Island is famous for its natural beauty. Visitors can take a look of marine life without snorkeling through the Undersea Tunnel Aquarium. In addition, Glass Bottom Boat allows passengers to see the ocean views directly from the ship.
6. Tidung Island
Tidung Island consists of two parts: Tidung Besar and Tidung Kecil. Tidung Kecil is used for the cultivation and preservation of mangroves while Tidung Besar is inhabited. The two islands are connected by the Love Bridge which allows visitors to enjoy beautiful panoramas of the marine ecosystem. Activities in Tidung Island include snorkeling, banana boating, and mangrove planting in Tidung Kecil.
MICHELLE GABRIELA