reconnect
top of page

Diving in Central Sulawesi: Explore Buka Buka, A Hidden Gem at the Door of The Togean Islands

Writer: Thomas DespinThomas Despin

"Space X" dive site on Buka Buka Island, only 10min away from the resort.
"Space X" dive site on Buka Buka Island, only 10min away from the resort. Credit: Zoe Lower

Discover Indonesia’s Hidden Gem


Imagine stepping onto a secluded island where time slows down, the ocean glows with vibrant corals, and the only sounds are waves and birdsong. Welcome to Buka Buka, Indonesia’s best-kept secret.


Tucked away in the Gulf of Tomini, off the coast of Sulawesi, Buka Buka is a pristine 2-square-kilometer island. Here, life follows the rhythm of the tides. No crowds, no distractions—just endless horizons, untouched beaches, and thriving marine life.


It’s the perfect place to disconnect from everyday worries and reconnect with what truly matters.



Buka Buka Island as seen from the sky, in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia.
Buka Buka Island as seen from the sky, in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia.

A Diver’s Paradise: Exclusive and Untouched


Being the only resort on the island means you’ll never find yourself among a swarm of divers. Here, the reefs remain untouched, bursting with life and color—just as they were decades ago.


The coral formations are spectacular, with vast fields of Acropora table corals, walls covered in sea fans, and thriving marine ecosystems. You’ll encounter schools of barracudas, playful batfish, clownfish darting between anemones, graceful sea turtles, and even blacktip reef sharks or eagle rays.


Every dive is like stepping into an underwater time capsule, revealing Indonesia’s raw and unspoiled beauty.



View of Reconnect from the House Reef on Buka Buka Island
View of Reconnect from the House Reef on Buka Buka Island. Credit: Alex Kydd


Diving Without Limits—Any Time of Year


Unlike many dive destinations that suffer from seasonal weather disruptions, Buka Buka enjoys a stable microclimate thanks to its location in the Gulf of Tomini. The sea remains calm year-round, visibility is excellent, and dive sites are always accessible. While some say May to September is the ideal season, the truth is—you can dive here anytime.


With water temperatures ranging from 27-30°C (80-86°F), diving at Buka Buka is comfortable year-round. There’s no need for thick wetsuits, and the warm waters make it an ideal location for beginners and experienced divers alike.


Whether it’s your first time or your hundredth dive, Buka Buka offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.



Sunset on Buka Buka Island shot from Reconnect
Sunset on Buka Buka Island shot from Reconnect


Effortless and Adventurous Diving


All of our dive sites are less than 15 minutes away from the resort. No long boat rides, no waiting—just gear up and dive into the action. And if you’re craving adventure, we offer day trips to legendary dive sites in the Togian Islands.


One of the highlights? Shark Point, where reef sharks glide through the currents among schools of trevallies and fusiliers. Or the Bomber B-24 wreck, a well-preserved World War II aircraft now home to lionfish, trevallies, and batfish—an eerie yet fascinating glimpse into history.


For those looking for a deeper connection with the ocean, we also offer night dives, where you’ll see a whole new side of marine life—bioluminescent plankton, hunting octopuses, and mesmerizing cuttlefish displaying their vibrant colors.


Buka Buka Island's House Reef during a Night Dive - Shot by Hanna Tyrväinen.
Buka Buka Island's House Reef during a Night Dive - Shot by Hanna Tyrväinen.

More Than Just Diving


The magic of Reconnect goes beyond the water. Between dives, enjoy a fresh coconut on a deserted beach, share stories with the crew over traditional music, or visit the Bajau village of Kabalutan, where sea nomads live in harmony with the ocean.


Exploring Kabalutan is a cultural experience unlike any other. Here, you’ll witness a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.


The Bajau people, also known as "sea nomads," are expert freedivers, capable of reaching impressive depths with a single breath. Watching them glide effortlessly through the water is a reminder of the deep connection between humans and the sea.



Thomas Despin meeting with Jago the Famous Bajau from the Netflix Documentary in Kabalutan, Togean Islands.
Thomas Despin meeting with Jago the famous Bajau from the Netflix Documentary in Kabalutan, Togean Islands

Ready to Dive Into Paradise?


At Reconnect Island Resort, we keep our dive groups small and personalized, ensuring every diver—beginner or expert—gets the most out of their experience.

Book your stay today and discover a world where nature reigns, and every dive tells a story.



Clown Fish in its anemone, shot on the house reef of Buka Buka Island in Central Sulawesi
Clown Fish in its anemone, shot on the house reef of Buka Buka Island in Central Sulawesi. Credit: Zoe Lower

bottom of page