Lately, there’s been a huge trend with people trying out new hobbies. Some of the most popular ones right now include swimming, freediving, and snorkeling. Not only are these activities great for your body, but they’re also super fun to do. But have you ever thought about swimming alongside a whale shark or a “giant shark”? Yup, that’s right—whale sharks are massive, but they’re actually gentle and friendly. Picture swimming in the open ocean, hanging out with a huge spotted fish. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will definitely make your vacation unforgettable!
If you’ve been dreaming of swimming with whale sharks in Indonesia, here are some of the best spots you’ve got to visit. Some are already famous, while others are hidden gems. Let’s dive in!
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What Is a Whale Shark?
Before we jump into the destinations, let’s first get to know the whale shark. Despite the word “shark” in their name, don’t worry—they’re not the scary predators you might imagine. Whale sharks are filter feeders, meaning they mostly eat plankton, small fish, or even fish eggs. They’re the largest fish in the world, growing over 12 meters long and weighing up to several tons! But despite their huge size, they’re super friendly. So no need to be afraid when swimming with them. Just remember to keep your distance and not disturb them—that’s the key.
Best Destinations to Swim with Whale Sharks in Indonesia
Curious? Let’s take a look at some of the best spots in Indonesia where you can swim with these giant sea creatures!
1. Talisayan, Berau
Swimming with Whale Shark at Talisayan
Talisayan, located in Berau, East Kalimantan, is a must-visit for anyone wanting to swim with whale sharks. The spot is known for its crystal-clear, pristine waters, which is why these giant fish often come by. Talisayan is near Derawan Archipelago, which is famous for its stunning underwater wonders. One of the highlights is swimming with whale sharks, which often appear in the mornings and afternoons to feed on fish scraps thrown out by local fishermen.
Swimming with whale sharks here will be an unforgettable experience. You can dive or snorkel while watching these gentle giants glide gracefully through the water. On top of that, Derawan offers other incredible attractions like Kakaban Lake, where you can swim with stingless jellyfish—an experience that makes your trip even more special!
2. Pantai Botubarani, Gorontalo
Next up, we have Pantai Botubarani in Gorontalo, Sulawesi. This spot is another great place to swim with whale sharks. You can find them in the waters close to the beach. While it’s not as famous as some of the other spots, Pantai Botubarani has its own charm with a peaceful and natural vibe. Whale sharks usually show up during certain months when plankton is abundant in the area. With its calm waters and stunning underwater scenery, Botubarani is a fantastic spot to consider for your next adventure.
Besides whale sharks, you can also enjoy snorkeling at well-preserved coral reef spots and take in the tranquil atmosphere of the beach, which is less crowded than other tourist destinations. If you’re looking for a more private experience, Botubarani might be the perfect place for you.
3. Saleh Bay, Sumbawa
Sumbawa, famous for Moyo Island and Mount Tambora, also has Teluk Saleh—a spot that’s perfect for swimming with whale sharks. The waters here are rich in plankton, making it an attractive feeding ground for whale sharks. You can often see them around the bay, enjoying their meals. Besides swimming with whale sharks, Teluk Saleh also offers stunning natural scenery. You can go on a light trek, enjoy waterfalls, or simply relax and soak up the beauty of the still-wild island.
The calm waters around Teluk Saleh are ideal for snorkeling or even freediving with whale sharks. If you’re lucky, you might even interact with more than one giant whale shark at the same time—imagine swimming with a whole school of these gentle giants! How cool would that be?
4. Cenderawasih Bay, Papua
Whale Shark in Cenderawasih Bay
Papua is not only famous for Raja Ampat, but also for Cenderawasih Bay, one of Indonesia’s largest marine conservation areas. Here, you can swim with whale sharks in a sea rich with biodiversity. It’s not just whale sharks that you’ll encounter—this bay is home to many other marine creatures, like green sea turtles, dugongs, and even reef sharks.
Whale sharks are often spotted near the bagans (traditional fishing platforms), where fishermen throw out fish scraps. This attracts the giant creatures, making it a perfect spot for those who want to swim alongside them. Teluk Cenderawasih is perfect for adventure lovers who want to experience swimming with these sea giants in a pristine ecosystem that’s still very much intact.
Read more: Labuan Cermin: A Lake As Clear As Glass
Fun and Safe Tips for Swimming with Whale Sharks
Before you dive into the ocean and swim with these massive creatures, there are a few things you need to know:
- Keep a Safe Distance: Even though whale sharks are gentle, make sure you keep at least 3-4 meters away from them. Don’t get too close, as you don’t want to stress them out.
- Don’t Touch or Ride Them: Whale sharks aren’t dangerous, but it’s important to respect them. Don’t try to touch or ride on their backs.
- Use the Right Gear: Make sure your mask fits well, your snorkel doesn’t leak, and your fins aren’t too big. Avoid making sudden or jerky movements that might damage the coral reefs or startle the whale sharks.
- Avoid Flash Photography: Skip the flash when taking photos. Bright lights can stress out the whale sharks, and we want to keep them calm.
- Listen to Your Guide: Local guides are familiar with the behavior of whale sharks, so always follow their instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Let’s Traveling with IndonesiaJuara Trip!
Can you already picture yourself swimming with whale sharks? If you want a hassle-free and unforgettable experience, IndonesiaJuara Trip is here to make your dream vacation come true. We’ll take care of everything, from accommodations to professional guides, so all you have to do is relax and enjoy.
Whether you’re heading to Derawan, one of the top spots for meeting these sea giants, or other amazing destinations, we’ve got you covered. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity—these moments don’t come around every day!
What are you waiting for? Get in touch with IndonesiaJuara Trip and choose from our exciting packages to swim with whale sharks. Make your dream trip a reality and create unforgettable memories with us!
