The Largest Island with White Sandy Beaches in Maluku
Halmahera Island, also known as Gilolo or Jailolo, is the largest island in Maluku (the Moluccas). Shaped like a miniature Sulawesi, this remote island offers stunning scenery with its white sandy beaches, unspoiled forests, and the magnificent Mt Mamuya in the distance. The rugged and mountainous landscape is mostly covered in lush forest.
Exploring the Beautiful Waters
One of the most popular activities on Halmahera Island is exploring its beautiful waters. Dorume Beach is a must-visit for surfers, especially in December when it offers huge waves. The beach is also known for its fine sands that glitter in the sun due to metallic grains present in them. Another spot to enjoy the scenery is Talaga Biru, which translates to Blue Lake. It is a small natural pond with crystal-clear water located near Mamuya village in Galela district.
Getting Around
To get around Halmahera Island, there are various land transportation options available such as bemo (motorized becak/rickshaw), mikrolet (blue minibuses), bentor (motorbike driven vehicle), ojek, and becak.
Getting There
There are several ways to reach Halmahera Island. Although it doesn’t have any significant airports, most air traffic comes through Sultan Babullah Airport on Ternate Island, which is the provincial capital airport. From there, you can take a short hop to Galela Airport on Halmahera Island near Tobelo.
Alternatively, there are cruise liners that visit Halmahera. PELNI offers several alternative cruises to Ternate twice a month. These liners transit in towns such as Semarang (Central Java), Surabaya (East Java), Makassar (South Sulawesi), and Bitung (North Sulawesi). From there, you can continue your trip by speedboat to Kota Baru, which takes about 45 minutes. Another option is to take a ferry from Bastiong Ferry Harbor, which will take approximately two hours. Both of these options will lead you to Sofifi in Halmahera.
Conclusion
Halmahera Island is a hidden gem in Maluku with its breathtaking landscapes, white sandy beaches, and unspoiled forests. Whether you are a surfer looking for massive waves or simply someone who wants to enjoy the peaceful scenery, Halmahera has something to offer. With various transportation options available, reaching this remote island is easier than ever. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on the largest island with white sandy beaches in Maluku!
