Lihaga Island (white sand island) swimming twice, including lunch and tickets

Exploring Lihaga Island: A Hidden Gem for Beach Lovers and Snorkel Enthusiasts

This tour to Lihaga Island offers an inviting escape into Indonesia’s pristine waters and powdery white sands. With a total duration of around six hours, it’s a well-paced adventure perfect for those craving a mix of relaxation and underwater marvels. The highlight? Two separate swimming opportunities and snorkeling over vibrant coral reefs, all with comfortable transport, a delicious meal, and the chance to capture some stellar photos of this uninhabited paradise.

One thing we love about this experience is how it balances nature’s beauty with comfort. Even though Lihaga Island isn’t inhabited, it’s equipped with facilities like toilets, changing rooms, and large wooden structures—making it a practical and enjoyable day out. That said, the tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a scenic boat ride, snorkeling, and a peaceful beach environment without the crowds.

A potential consideration? The weather in this region can be unpredictable. While the tour offers a full refund if canceled due to poor weather, travelers should be prepared for the possibility of a damp day if rain or storms roll in. This tour is ideal for those seeking an authentic, scenic beach escape with excellent value—perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers wanting to unwind in a picture-perfect setting.

Key Points

• Uninhabited but equipped: No worries about facilities—restrooms, changing rooms, and wooden structures are available.
• Vibrant underwater life: Snorkeling over coral reefs offers views as beautiful as those at Bunaken Marine Park.
• Two swims included: Enjoy two separate opportunities to swim in the clear waters of Lihaga Island.
• All essentials covered: Transportation, lunch, snorkeling gear, and boat transfers are included in the price.
• Private tour: Only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.
• Booking well in advance: With an average booking window of 79 days, this is a popular choice for early planners.

A Deep Dive into the Lihaga Island Experience

The Journey to White Sand Bliss

Your day begins with a convenient pickup in Manado, using an air-conditioned vehicle provided by the tour operator, Manado Best Service. This transport ensures a comfortable ride into Likupang district, setting a relaxed tone for the day ahead. The drive itself offers glimpses of North Sulawesi’s lush scenery, making it a scenic start to the adventure.

Once in Likupang, you’ll transfer onto a boat that will ferry you to Lihaga Island. The boat ride itself is part of the charm—gliding over calm waters with a chance to spot passing fish or seabirds. The boat is included, and the small group setting keeps the journey intimate—perfect for snapping photos or simply enjoying the ocean breeze.

Arrival and First Swims

Arriving at Lihaga Island, you’ll be greeted by a spectacular stretch of white sand that looks almost too perfect to be real. Reviewers describe it as “like a private beach,” emphasizing its unspoiled nature. The shallow, calm waters make swimming easy—ideal for families or less experienced swimmers.

The first chance to jump into the water is a treat, and with snorkeling gear provided, you can explore the underwater world teeming with colorful fish and corals. One traveler noted, “fabulous snorkeling,” and many visitors find the marine life here to be just as beautiful as nearby Bunaken, but often less crowded.

Snorkeling and Photography

Lihaga’s underwater scenery is a standout feature. The coral reefs are vibrant, and the clarity of the water allows you to see plenty of marine life without straining. For photography lovers, the island offers endless scenic spots—large wooden structures, pristine shoreline, and panoramic views—perfect for capturing memories. Several reviews mention photographers wandering around, attempting to frame the island’s natural beauty.

Lunch and Rest

After your first swim, a hearty lunch is served—usually included in the tour package. Expect a local Indonesian meal, designed to fuel you for another round of fun in the water or a relaxing break on the beach. The refreshment area, kept meticulously clean, provides a comfortable space to rest, eat, and hydrate with mineral water.

Second Swimming Session

Post-lunch, you’ll have time for a second dip, which many find to be the highlight of the day. Being able to swim twice in such a pristine location is a rare opportunity. One review enthusiastically calls it “a nice place like a private beach,” emphasizing the peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere that makes each swim feel exclusive.

Returning Home

In the late afternoon, the boat departs back to Likupang, followed by the comfortable transfer to your hotel. The relaxed pace allows you to fully enjoy the day without feeling rushed.

The Value of This Tour

At $159 per person, this experience provides excellent value. Including transportation, snorkeling gear, boat rides, and a meal, it offers a comprehensive package that covers all essentials. Compared to other island tours in Indonesia, the price reflects high-quality facilities, well-organized logistics, and the chance to visit a less frequented, untouched island.

Travelers have praised the experience for its stunning scenery and peaceful vibe. The fact that Lihaga Island isn’t inhabited means fewer crowds and more natural beauty—ideal for those wanting a genuine escape. The availability of facilities like toilets and changing rooms adds convenience, especially since many similar tours may lack such amenities.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for beach lovers, snorkelers, and photographers seeking a tranquil getaway. Families with children will appreciate the shallow waters and facilities, while couples or solo travelers can enjoy the quiet, scenic environment. It’s also well-suited for those who prefer a private, personalized experience rather than large group tours.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In summary, this tour to Lihaga Island offers a beautiful, well-rounded day immersed in nature’s calm and colorful underwater world. The combination of white sandy beaches, snorkeling, and good facilities makes it stand out from other options near Manado. The fact that it’s a private activity means you can enjoy the island at your own pace, with fewer distractions.

For travelers who are after authentic natural beauty, a peaceful atmosphere, and excellent value, this experience hits the mark. The only caveat is the weather—since it’s outdoor-based, a rainy day could impact your plans, but the tour’s flexible cancellation policy provides peace of mind.

Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or simply someone looking for a quiet beach day, Lihaga Island is an accessible, stunning destination worth exploring.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 6 hours in total, including pickup, travel, swimming, lunch, and return.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, private boat transfer, snorkeling equipment, lunch, and mineral water.

Are there facilities on the island?
Yes, Lihaga Island has toilets, changing rooms, and large wooden structures, making your visit comfortable despite being uninhabited.

Can I swim more than once?
Yes, the tour includes two swimming opportunities, including snorkeling, allowing you to enjoy the waters twice.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the shallow, calm waters make it family-friendly. Always check with your tour provider if you have specific needs.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, waterproof camera if you wish to take photos, and any personal items. Snorkeling gear is provided.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled or rescheduled if poor weather conditions occur. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this a group tour?
No, it’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book around 79 days in advance, reflecting its popularity and limited availability.

To sum it up, the Lihaga Island tour offers a rare chance to unwind on a stunning, largely untouched island with excellent snorkeling, comfortable facilities, and a peaceful vibe. It’s a worthwhile choice for those wanting a scenic escape that balances natural beauty with practical comfort.