Wakatobi's Hidden Gems - Wakatobi Flow

THE UNCHARTED SCOOP

Wakatobi Resort has earned a reputation as one of the world’s finest diving and snorkeling destinations. Its pristine reefs and secluded setting coupled with five-star service and ambience have earned widespread acclaim. Believe it or not, there are still hidden gems awaiting discovery at Wakatobi! Consider the following as an insider’s guide, directly from the resort team, that can elevate your already exceptional getaway.

1. THE SWEET SPOT. November and December are months when fewer people travel because they fall between major holidays. Consequently, airfares may be lower during this time. Additionally, these months offer excellent diving and snorkeling conditions at Wakatobi. This timeframe maintains water temperatures ranging from 29-30 degrees Celcius (85-87 degrees Fahrenheit), making it a sweet spot for enjoying the water.

At Wakatobi, you'll discover warm seas, gentle currents, and a dive experience that feels entirely your own. — In the hush between holidays, discover warm seas, gentle currents, and a dive experience that feels entirely your own. Photo by Wakatobi Resort

2. SLEEP IN, DIVE LATER. Are you a slow riser? The Wakatobi dive team has you covered. After two voluntary morning dives, some guests prefer to wind down after lunch and conclude their experience with a shore dive. This often results in fewer divers on the afternoon boat dives. An afternoon dive is an excellent option for those who prefer to sleep in or savor breakfast in peace, ensuring they still meet their desired dive time later in the day.

At Wakatobi, you can sleep in, enjoy the morning view, and have a late breakfast before venturing out for your next boat or shore dive, or snorkeling excursion. Photo by Wakatobi Resort

3. PRIVATE FLIGHTS. Did you know that Wakatobi offers a private flight from Bali directly to our own airstrip? After your travels, this seamless journey cuts down the final leg of your trip to just 2.5 hours, bypassing the need for multiple air, land, and sea transfers. You’ll skip the crowds and long lines, arriving directly to Wakatobi in comfort. Before the private flight, guests can unwind in Bali’s VIP lounge, enjoying a full breakfast and a variety of amenities as they prepare for the final stretch of their journey.

Wakatobi provides a private flight from Bali directly to the resort's own private airstrip allowing you to skip the crowds and long lines. — Wakatobi provides a private flight from Bali directly to the resort’s own airstrip allowing you to skip the crowds and long lines. Photo by Wakatobi Resort

4. RIDE THE CURRENT, RAISE A GLASS. Discover our famous house reef—dubbed “the world’s best shore dive”—with ease by hopping on one of the resort’s taxi boats. Our team will whisk you up-current for a drift dive that brings you right back to the Jetty Bar. After your dive, step onto the jetty, dry off, and unwind with après-dive drinks and warmhearted vibes.

Hop on one of the resort’s taxi boats for a lift up-current and a relaxing drift along our House Reef wall. Photo by Wakatobi Resort

5. AS ABOVE, SO BELOW. Night diving is popular at Wakatobi, but you don’t need to blow bubbles to feel part of the adventure. Night snorkeling on the House Reef is equally spectacular, and it’s available for all guests to experience. After nightfall, look up from the water to enjoy an unparalleled view of the magical starry night.

As night falls on Wakatobi’s House Reef, snorkelers prepare for an enchanting rendezvous. Need a dive torch? Our dive center has you covered. Photo by Wakatobi Resort

6. WINGS OVER WAKATOBI. In addition to the incredible diversity of marine life, Wakatobi also rewards nature lovers above the water. The island is rich in birdlife — including an endemic species! Just ask the front office to organize a bird-watching session for you or other land tours around the island.

In 2022, ornithologist identified a new species known as the Wakatobi Sunbird or the Wakatobi nectar bird. These diminutive creatures resemble American hummingbirds (though they’re not closely related), and males display bright iridescent plumage that shimmers in the sunlight. Photo by Wakatobi Resort — In 2022, an ornithologist identified a new species known as the Wakatobi Sunbird or the Wakatobi nectar bird. These diminutive creatures resemble American hummingbirds (though they’re not closely related), and males display bright iridescent plumage that shimmers in the sunlight. Photo by Wakatobi Resort

7. SOMETHING MORE. Villas are Wakatobi’s premier accommodations and include both one-bedroom and two-bedroom pool models. What many divers don’t know is that in addition to spectacular aquatic and sunset views, villas come with a complimentary butler and private dive guide as well as other perks.

Two Bedroom Pool Villa with a view. Photo by Wakatobi Resort

8. DESERTED DELICACIES. Guests can channel their inner Robinson Caruso with a trip to nearby Sawa Island, where they can watch the sunset on a deserted beach while enjoying delicious apéritifs and hors d’oeuvres created by our chefs. Our concierge team can make arrangements at your request in advance of your visit.

A private island excursion on nearby Sawa can easily be arranged. Let your guest experience representative know you’re interested, or contact our concierge team. Photo by Wakatobi Resort

9. CRAVE IT? CONSIDER IT DONE. Wakatobi is known for our chef’s kiss. Mouth-watering dishes are carefully crafted by our culinary team. And options aren’t limited to what’s on the table. Our chefs are happy to prepare your favorite dish on request, including special dietary choices such as gluten-free, low-fat, low-sodium, or even vegan spreads. Let our team about your wishes and needs.

Prepare your palate for an exquisite dining experience. Let our chefs spoil you for breakfast, lunch, dinner…and maybe dessert too! Photo by Wakatobi Resort

10. CRUISE AT YOUR OWN RHYTHM. Guests can charter a private boat for the day, bringing up to six family members or friends along for the cruise. We offer a reasonable charge for the charter, which puts a captain and crew at your beck and call for a private voyage of diving, discovery, and indulgence.

Wakatobi Private Boat. — Wakatobi’s Private Boat. Photo by Adrienne Gittus

11. ENJOY LUXURY WITH A PURPOSE. For nearly three decades, Wakatobi has shared the benefits of sustainable dive tourism with the surrounding villages, helping local communities recognize the reefs as invaluable. They now see the reefs as vital sources of opportunity and connection. With a deep sense of pride and ownership, these communities actively work together to protect and preserve the reefs. Interested in meeting the locals? The front office can arrange an excursion for you to connect with the people who call Southeast Sulawesi home.

Let the smiles of local children brighten your day. Ask our front office to arrange a village excursion and see how sustainable tourism is making a difference. — Let the smiles of local children brighten your day. Ask our front office team to arrange a village excursion and see how sustainable tourism is making a difference. Tours are also pre-arranged weekly. Photo by Wakatobi Resort

12. REFRESH YOURSELF, ON THE HOUSE. We recommend that divers who have been out of the water for more than 6 months refresh their dive skills before visiting our dive-centric resort. However, for those wanting to maximize their bottom time at Wakatobi, let our phenomenal dive team conduct your refresher right on our beautiful house reef!

Divers who have been out of the water too long and don't want to jump right in won't need to rehash their skills drills before coming to Wakatobi. They can take a refresher course right on our beautiful House Reef. — Divers who have been out of the water too long and don’t want to jump right in won’t need to rehash their skill drills before coming to Wakatobi. They can take a refresher course right on our beautiful House Reef. Photo by Wakatobi Resort

Dreams Do Come True

These hidden gems that make Wakatobi unforgettable are just the beginning of what awaits. When you’re ready for something extra special—don’t hesitate to ask! From birthdays and anniversaries to honeymoons and graduations, we’re dedicated to crafting the perfect experience for you. Let us spoil you with an experience without equal. Interested in staying with us? Enquire here or email: office@wakatobi.com

Wedding on the beach at Wakatobi. — Kevin and Benita Hacken were wed on the beach at Wakatobi. Photo by Wakatobi Resort

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