Taliabu Island: A Hidden Gem in Eastern Indonesia

Taliabu Island, in North Maluku Province, is a young island regency carved out of the Sula Islands under Law No. 6 of 2013. Geographically, it sits in a privileged position: the Maluku Sea to the north, the Capalulu Strait to the east, the Banda Sea to the south, and the Banggai Laut Islands to the west. Public services are centered in Bobong. Astronomically, it lies around 1–2° South and 124–125° East—a quiet little gateway along one of Eastern Indonesia’s strategic sea corridors.

For international travelers, Taliabu blends untouched beaches, dramatic straits, pristine forests, and the bounty of blue foods—aquatic foods such as pelagic fish, line-caught specialties, and seaweed. Its natural abundance is matched by the warmth of its people and a development path that puts families and children at the heart of community life—an inviting social foundation for safe, inclusive travel.

Why Taliabu, and Why Now

Pulau Empat is a chain of islands with breathtaking scenery that ships pass before entering the town of Bobong.

Come before the mainstream rush. Beaches are still quiet, the water is crystal-clear, and encounters with locals feel personal. You won’t just see the island—you’ll live it: head out to fish with local crews, choose a live fish from a sea pen and have it cooked to order at a seaside stall; listen to the “singing” sands at Pantai Pasir Anjing when it’s dry; or soak up the first light at Kalimat Waterfall, tumbling down moss-clad rock walls.

Getting There from Jakarta

Start at Soekarno–Hatta International Airport for a flight to Makassar, then continue on a direct flight to Luwuk (Banggai Regency). From Luwuk or Banggai Laut, cross to Taliabu either on a large public boat operating on set days or by speedboat/fast boat across the Capalulu Strait (around two to three hours depending on sea conditions). Because schedules are weather-dependent, reconfirm a day in advance and keep an eye on official marine forecasts. Always follow local operators’ guidance—especially when crossing the strait, where currents can be strong at certain times.

Landscapes & Allure: From “Singing” Sands to Waterfalls

Seho Island—often nicknamed “Pink Beach Hol Teripang”—serves up blush-tinted sand, glass-clear water, and tranquil snorkeling. Along Taliabu’s main coastline you’ll find long sweeps of white sand, sheltered coves, and luminous blue lagoons.
The Capalulu Strait brings a striking play of calm and power; with a licensed guide, take in the grandeur of the channel and—when conditions allow—dive safely in nutrient-rich sites.
At Pantai Pasir Anjing, the “singing sands” phenomenon adds a signature flourish: dry, uniform grains resonate underfoot, producing a high, bell-like chirp—an uncommon sensation that becomes the best conversation piece to take home.

Kalimat Waterfall, Taliabu’s most beautiful cascade, tumbles down moss-clad rock walls.

Food & Community: Blue Foods and True Hospitality

Taliabu’s daily seaside markets are the main stage for blue foods: gleaming tuna and skipjack, seaweed dishes, and simple, soulful line-caught fare. As you eat, you’ll notice easy smiles, light banter, and invitations to sample the day’s best catch.
Aligned with Indonesia’s Child-Friendly City/Regency (KLA) agenda, Taliabu is building environments that are safe, healthy, inclusive, and genuinely participatory for children. The Taman Asuh Sayang Anak Merdeka initiative in Kramat Village, North Taliabu—launched to coincide with Indonesia’s 80th year of independence—ensures positive, stimulating care for children while helping parents remain productive. The program knits together home gardens, local food processing, and a community gallery of crafts and products. It’s a family-friendly destination that still feels adventurous.

The inauguration of the Merdeka Taman Asuh Sayang Anak (TAMASYA) childcare program in Pulau Taliabu Regency is intended to ensure children receive positive, developmentally stimulating care. At the same time, it helps parents stay productive at work without compromising their children’s rights or their overall growth and developmental needs.

A Realistic Four-Day Itinerary

Day 1 | Arrive in Bobong, check in, and chase the golden hour on the waterfront with grilled fish and fresh coconut.
Day 2 | Light island-hopping to Seho for swimming, snorkeling, and a dusky picnic on the blushing sands.
Day 3 | Survey the Capalulu Strait with a licensed operator—if currents are kind, try a safe snorkel or short dive—then stop by a coastal village to enjoy the fresh catch.
Day 4 | Explore beaches near Bobong or Wayo, learn to fillet the morning’s catch at the fish market, and—time permitting—slip away to Kalimat Waterfall before you depart.

In Bobong, the capital of Taliabu Regency, you’ll find Dapur Beta, a beloved spot for fresh bread, traditional pastries, and a variety of locally made fish dishes—the island’s signature flavors.

Enjoy Dapur Beta’s delicious breads—along with a selection of local specialties and fresh fish dishes. To place an order, contact Dapur Beta at +62 822-1327-8624.

To stay limber on the road, there’s also Azsya Gym, a welcoming fitness space that’s great for stretching out and getting in a solid workout.

Sustainability & Safety

Check wind and wave forecasts before any crossing; calmer seasons deliver the smoothest experience. Choose certified guides, wear a life jacket, avoid stepping on coral, and support responsible fishing and seaweed farming. It’s the best way to savor Taliabu while helping protect its ecosystems.

Taliabu thrills every sense: sand that “sings” beneath your steps, a strait that booms with ocean energy, waterfalls that catch the light, and sea-fresh flavors that feel good. For travelers seeking a destination beyond the usual circuit, Taliabu isn’t just a dot on the map—it’s a promise of experiences that are authentic, welcoming, and unforgettable. Arrive early, linger longer, and take home stories that stick.

Mrs. Jumawati, a staff member of the Taliabu Island Regency Office of Population Control and Family Planning (DP2KB), is also part of the “Mancing Mania” fishing community.

Final Note

Visit Taliabu Island in North Maluku—and let your trip grow from a simple getaway into a string of meaningful moments. Start your morning in Bobong with warm bread and heirloom pastries from Dapur Beta, then pick a live fish straight from a sea pen and have it cooked to order at a beachfront stall. As noon drifts in, listen to the sand “sing” at Pantai Pasir Anjing when the grains dry out and resonate beneath your steps. The next day, let Kalimat Waterfall greet you with silky veils plunging down moss-clad rock walls; back in town, stretch out at Azsya Gym so you’re ready for the adventures ahead.

Between outings, make time to meet the locals—Taliabu is nurturing a safe, inclusive tourism scene for families and children. You won’t go home with photos alone, but with stories: casting lines with fishermen, learning to fillet the morning’s catch, and sampling an array of blue foods—tuna, skipjack, and seaweed creations—the lifeblood of the coastal economy. Arrive early, linger longer, and let Taliabu leave you with memories that refuse to fade.

Tagline: “Taliabu—where sands sing, seas surge, and memories stay.”

*All photographs are from the author’s private collection