Likupang Essential Travel Guide
Likupang, in North Sulawesi, Indonesia, is a place where natural beauty meets traditional charm, and it’s quickly becoming a favorite for travelers looking to dive into nature. Located about two hours from Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi, Likupang offers a mix of serene beaches, incredible marine life, and local culture, giving visitors plenty to explore.
Travel Tips
Diving: If you’re new to diving, many of the resorts offer PADI certification, so it’s a good place to get started.
Cash: ATMs are sparse, so it’s wise to bring some cash for local purchases and entry fees.
Respect the Environment: especially In places like Bunaken and Bahoi, respecting the coral and wildlife is crucial to preserving these unique habitats.
Best Time to Visit Likupang
The best time to visit Likupang is from May to September, when the weather is mostly dry, and the sea is calm—ideal for diving and beach days. November through April is the rainy season, but you can still get in some diving during these months.
Things to Do
Explore the Underwater World
Likupang’s clear waters and coral reefs have put it on the map for divers and snorkelers. The nearby Bunaken National Park is known for its diverse marine life, with over 70% of Indo-Pacific fish species found along its reef walls. Dive trips and courses are easy to book at local dive resorts, with opportunities to spot reef fish, turtles, and even a few sharks. For a different experience, try a night dive to see the ocean’s nightlife.
Relax on Pristine Beaches
Likupang has a few beach gems that are still refreshingly under-the-radar. Pulisan Beach, with its soft white sands and striking rock formations, makes for great photos and even better beach days. Sampirang Beach and Paal Marinsow Beach offer calm waters and relaxed vibes, perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun.
Sample Local Flavors & Cuisine
North Sulawesi has its own distinct flavors, with Tinutuan porridge being a regional highlight. This veggie-rich rice porridge combines pumpkin, corn, sweet potatoes, and greens, usually topped with a spicy sambal (chili sauce). It’s a flavorful, hearty dish and a perfect start to a day of exploring.
Sightseeing & Activities
Playing Golf
For those who love golf, Likupang’s Paradise Hotel Golf & Resort brings a chance to play in a truly unique setting. The 18-hole course is set along open coastal views and local scenery, making for a game that feels connected to Likupang’s natural charm. Right in the center of the area’s tourism spots, the Paradise Golf Club offers carefully kept greens and a relaxed clubhouse where players can unwind after a round. It’s a great option for anyone who wants to enjoy the game, whether new to golf or with years of experience.
Pulisan Beach and Hills
Pulisan, East Likupang, North Minahasa District, Kabupaten North Sulawesi One of the most popular places to visit in the Likupang region is Pulisan Beach. Tours of this beach’s white sand and rock cliffs, which resemble caves made of stone, are available. Tourists can enjoy the Pacific Ocean and green grass from atop savanna hills, where they can also relax, explore the area in fishing boats, snorkel, and dive.
Mount Dua Basudara, Kinuang Beach, and Bukit Larata
Pulisan, East Likupang, North Minahasa, Kabupaten Sulawesi
Larata Hill is just as beautiful as Pulisan Hill, with expansive savanna and ocean vistas. Tourists who climb to the peak of Bukit Larata are rewarded with a view of the sea and the towering peaks of Mount Dua Basudaa. The beautiful Kinunang Beach is only a 15-minute walk from Bukit Larata. Homestays run by locals offer scenic vistas and hospitable hosts to visitors.
Paal Beach
In the city of Marinsow, East Likupang District of the North Minahasa Regency of North Sulawesi.
Paal Beach is another popular destination for weekend travelers, right alongside Pulisan. Water sports, boat tours of the area’s beaches, and relaxing in the community-run gazebo are just a few of the activities available to visitors.
Lihaga Island
Lihaga Island is located in West Likupang, North Minahasa Regency, North Sulawesi.
There are several surrounding islands in the Likupang area that are popular tourist destinations, one of which is Lihaga Island. To get there, you can rent a boat from Serei Harbor to get to Lihaga Island. Tourists on Lihaga Island can enjoy the various activities and relaxing facilities, as well as snorkeling and diving activities.
Ganges Island
Gangga Island is located in West Likupang District, North Minahasa Regency, North Sulawesi.
Gangga Island, like Lihaga Island, has views of white sand and clear sea water, making it ideal for tourists who want to snorkel, dive, or simply play in the water on the beach. Tourists can also rent a boat from Serei Harbor to get to Lihaga Island.
Bahoi. Ecotourism Village
Bahoi Village is located in West Likupang District, North Minahasa Regency, North Sulawesi.
Bahoi Village is a fishing village that promotes independent ecotourism in order to protect the marine ecosystem. Ecotourism in Bahoi Village includes mangrove forests near the sea, beautiful underwater ecosystems, and homestays that tourists can rent. Locals also rent out boats to tourists to take them around the mangrove forest and to take them snorkeling or diving.
The Bahoi Mangrove Conservation Area is a community-led effort to protect the local ecosystem. Walk along the boardwalks through this coastal forest, where you can spot native birds, marine life, and a vibrant mangrove environment. It’s a peaceful spot that reflects local conservation efforts and offers a nice break from the beach.
Visit Tunan Waterfall
A short, scenic walk from the village of Talawan, Tunan Waterfall drops 86 meters into a cool pool, ideal for a quick dip. The waterfall is just off the main road, making it a perfect stopover if you’re heading from Manado.
