Explore the Hidden Paradise of Weh Island
WEH ISLAND IS REMOTE AND TAKES TIME TO GET THERE, WHICH ARE JUST TWO OF THE MANY REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT THIS GEM OF AN INDONESIAN ISLAND IN THE ANDAMAN SEA.
The beautiful Weh Island, Indonesia, nestled in the southern reaches of the Andaman Sea, is an alluring place for freediving, diving and snorkeling. This small active volcanic island on the northern tip of Sumatra, northwest of Banda Ache, is just 45 minutes by fast boat or two hours by ferry from the mainland.
PROTECTED AREAS
Known for its ecosystem, the government has declared 60sqk of the island and the sea around the island as a wildlife protection area. A rare megamouth shark species has been found there and the island is the only habitat for the threatened toad, Duttaphrynus valhallae. Coral reefs around the island are known for their large variety of fish species.
As a popular sport tourism destination, Sabang was chosen to be the venue of a spectacular freediving event because it is the most awesome spot for freediving in Indonesia. Add to that the great depth of the sea structure. There is no strong undercurrent, perfect for freediving, and it has beautiful marine life which you can become acquainted with in crystal clear waters. All divers and snorkelers will be thrilled with this colourful environment.
AREA SPECIFIC SEA LIFE
This Island will lift your experience of natural beauty, above and below the water, to a whole new level. Here, the crystal sea is the main attraction. Home to a variety of sea creatures many of which you will see nowhere else.
If you are looking for a destination that most travelers are not looking for – this is the place. Here it is more relaxed and laid back. Their charming coastline of golden sands are protected by lush forests and they overlook a clear bluishgreen hue waters. For those willing to make the trip – they are going to be delighted.
UNPARALLELED UNIVERSE
Swim with manta rays, whale sharks, dolphins and sea turtles. Divers call this exceptional island ‘the unparalleled underwater universe.’ For Indonesians divers, this is the upper most place on their list of diving spots. For international divers in the know, they will travel from the most distant places on the planet to experience this exceptional spot.
There is more than water centric activities on Weh Island. When you are chilling from your great dive excursions take a hike. There is great scenery to enjoy, caves to explore, rocky cliffs and beaches to navigate, and fresh air to inhale. Rent a motorcycle and tour the jungle clad island at your leisure.
FRESH SEAFOOD
Enjoy Sabang’s culinary delights. There are exotic foods that your stay-at-home friends will envy when you post your pictures of the succulent food you are enjoying on your social media. Of course, in a beautiful natural island like this, fresh seafood is the main delicacy and you can enjoy a tasty feast on the seaside overlooking the natural beauty of Sabang.
Visit the “0” kilometer of Indonesia, marking the very western tip of this vast archipelago, where you will find friendly locals and good prices. Diving draws many people to the island, but there are many reasons for them to return.