Although the name Likupang is not as popular as Bali or Lombok for tourist purposes, visiting Likupang is like discovering a hidden paradise. It is called a hidden paradise because this area has a coastal area with white sandy and crystal clear blue sea water, complete with an incredible underwater natural charm.
Likupang popularity began to climb in July 2019 when President Joko Widodo designated Likupang as a Top-Priority Tourist Destination along with Lake Toba, Borobudur, Mandalika, and Labuan Bajo. Here are seven destinations that you must visit while on vacation to Likupang.
- Paal Beach
A stretch of white sand combined with clear blue sea water will welcome you when you enter this Paal beach area. The view is still enhanced by a row of green hills around it, which will make you feel at home sitting relaxed and lingering here. You will not be bored in this place because besides relaxing. You can also play banana boat or snorkel. There is no need to worry about hunger because many stalls provide a variety of Manado specialties at affordable prices.
- Pulisan Hill
Although it takes about 1 hour on foot with quite challenging terrain to get to the top of Pulisan Hill, all the tiredness immediately pays off when you are at the top. In addition to the vast expanse of meadows and hills, you will also be spoiled with views of the soothing blue sea.
- Pulisan Beach
Pulisan Beach is still in the same area as Pulisan Hill, where this beach has rock cliffs that separate several beaches. There are also small caves under the cliffs with clear and calm sea water. Even so clear, you can see firsthand the fish that are agile swimming and even coral reefs at the bottom. You can rent a boat to cross a row of beaches while seeing the underwater beauty along the way.
- Lihaga Island
To reach Lihaga Island, you have to rent a boat from Serai Pier, West Likupang, with a travel time of 2 hours. Once you arrive, this uninhabited island will welcome you with its stunning white sand beaches. Although there are no residents, Lihaga Island is equipped with tourist facilities. Like the bathroom and a place to sit to relax. If you want to spend the night here, you must bring your tent because this island does not provide accommodation at all.
- Ecotourism Bahoi Village
Bahoi Village is a fishing village that manages independent ecotourism to maintain marine ecosystems, so you can see the rows of mangrove forests that fill its coastal areas. In addition to mangrove forests, you can also enjoy the charm of underwater beauty, which is famous for having beautiful coral reefs with schools of colorful fish around it.
- Gangga Island
Gangga Island is a favorite diving spot for foreign tourists, thanks to its healthy and beautiful marine life and coral reefs. There are many colorful ornamental fish that will welcome you when diving or snorkeling. But if you are reluctant to dive, you can also canoe, fish, or relax on the beach while playing in the water and enjoying the sunrise or sunset. This island also has lodging, such as resorts and bungalows whose balconies facing the sea.
- Larata Hill
Larata Hill offers views of the vast expanse of grassland. Suitable for those of you who want to release stress or take romantic photos with your partner. When standing here, you will be presented with views of beautiful green hills — the green hills combined with the serene blue sky, which is certainly very amazing!
Before you plan a trip to Likupang, be sure to read more about Likupang and Indonesia by visiting Wonderful Indonesia.