Whale shark are marine animals that can get as big as 11 tons and reach about 12 meters in length. These species can live for 60 to 100 years and attain sexual maturity at around the age of 30. Whale shark are friendly animals who eat on plankton while being the largest species of shark. They can be discovered in many tropical oceans all over the world. Indonesia is a popular destination for whale sharks diving and snorkeling. In fact, these whale shark diving in Indonesia can be found all around the islands; sightings have been reported near Bali, Nusa Lembongan, Komodo, Alor, and Raja Ampat.

These Beautiful Diving Spots Meet Whale Sharks in Indonesia

Cenderawasih Bay

Cenderawasih Bay National Park in West Papua has a large marine reserve that is protected and is home to a diverse variety of plants and animals. One of Southeast Asia’s largest national parks is home to a diverse range of animals, including the magnificent exotic Cendrawasih bird. Whale sharks are always present in its waters, but the greatest place to see them is Kwatisore Bay, close to Nabire. Additionally, as they are frequently spotted in the morning, diving in the morning is advised.

Cenderawasih Bay is the largest national park in Southeast Asia with 1.5 million hectares of protected marine reserve, ensuring pristine conditions and a massive population of vivid flora, fauna, and healthy coral cover. Kwatisore’s area is frequently populated by a lot of Bangans, giving it the nickname “Whale Shark Village.”

Saleh Bay, Sumbawa

Saleh Bay in Sumbawa is another good location to go whale shark diving. This location offers snorkeling opportunities and a peek at beautiful marine life. Whale sharks can be seen there as well. In the village of Labuan Jambu, which is close to the bay, you can engage in whale shark conservation tourism.

Triton Bay

Triton Bay is still a bit of a diving secret. But the Marine National Park has recently become increasingly known as a pristine diving site with a very high probability of snorkeling with the iconic Whale sharks. The region is home to some of the most amazing and unexplored underwater sights with towering limestone formations and lush tropical jungle as a backdrop. With 1711 species of reef fish, 600+ species of corals, and 17 species of whales and dolphins. Including the whale shark, Triton Bay’s dive sites have the highest fish biomass ever seen in all of Indonesia.

Botubarani, Gorontalo

Gorontalo’s Botubarani is another location where whale sharks can be sighted. Local findings suggest that these kinds of animals start to appear around the month of June. This location is more simpler to get to even though it isn’t as regularly visited as Talisayan Derawan. You can go to this location from Goranto in about 30 minutes. However, the travel time from Djalaludin Airport is about 1.5 hours.

Derawan, Kalimantan

You can swim and dive with marine life in a spot with wide, clear water, as you imagine. Talisayan Derawan in East Kalimantan is a well-known location. Whale sharks are reportedly visible when fisherman start their day of fishing since many of them throw their catches into the water. It is advised that you schedule your diving trip here in Talisayan for the summer months, from mid-June to mid-September, when the south breezes are blowing.