Bunaken Oasis Dive Resort

Sulawesi, Indonesia

The team at Bunaken Oasis Dive Resort understand what makes a dive trip special. They’ve really nailed the balance of serious diving and serious relaxation. We love that they keep guest numbers low, which means the dive boats never feel crowded – a real luxury in Bunaken where some operations pack them in. Their location on the island’s quieter side is a huge plus. You get those iconic Bunaken walls, absolutely riddled with nudibranchs and schooling bannerfish, without the constant buzz of other boats. Our favourite dives often happen right before sunset; the light hitting the wall as you drift past sponges the size of small cars is something else. We’d suggest asking for an early morning dive too, especially if you’re hoping to spot a passing reef shark or eagle ray before the day boats arrive. The dive guides are fantastic, spotting pygmy seahorses on gorgonian fans you’d swim right past. They’re PADI 5 Star, so excellent for those wanting to progress their skills in a calm environment. Expect genuine smiles, strong coffee, and a really comfortable boat ride out to some truly spectacular sites.