Sabang Is a Diving Haven of Clear Waters & Marine Life
Sabang Island, also known as Pulau Weh, is a hidden gem nestled in Indonesia’s Aceh Province. Located just 15km off the northwest coast of Sumatra, the island is famous for having some of the best snorkelling and diving sites in the Indonesian archipelago.
The island was once part of Sumatra’s mainland and the Aceh mountain range until a volcanic eruption several million years ago caused part of the range to collapse, forming what is now the island. Sabang is also home to an active volcano called Jaboi, and being a volcanic island, there is fascinating presence of geothermal activity beneath the sea. At sites like “Hydrothermal Point”, located at a depth of 9 metres at Gapang Beach, divers and snorkellers can observe underwater fumaroles – vents releasing volcanic gases that warm the water and enrich the surrounding marine life. Culturally, the island is home to a diverse mix of communities, including Batak, Chinese, Minang and Javanese people, each adding to Sabang’s rich cultural tapestry.
How Do I Get There?
There aren’t any direct flights from anywhere to Sabang Island. However, getting there isn’t so difficult:
From Malaysia:
You can depart from either Kuala Lumpur International Airport (1hr 30 mins) or Penang International Airport (1hr 40 mins) to Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport, Banda Aceh. Airlines that operate this route include AirAsia, Firefly, and Super Air Jet.
From Singapore:
Option 1: Fly from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur, Medan or Jakarta (includes 1 layover), then to Banda Aceh.
Option 2: Take a ferry to Batam, then take a flight from Batam to Banda Aceh. Unfortunately, there aren’t any non-stop flights from Batam to Banda Aceh, so do expect at least 1 layover at either Medan or Jakarta.
The whole journey takes around 5+ hours depending on selected flight and layover duration. Airlines that operate this route include AirAsia, Garuda Indonesia, Batik Air, Super Air Jet, Scoot and Lion Air Indonesia
From anywhere else:
Fly to either Jakarta, Medan or Kuala Lumpur (includes 1 layover), then to Banda Aceh.
Once you’ve reached Banda Aceh:
- Make your way from the airport to Ulee Lheue Port, which is about a 35-minute taxi ride. From there, you’ll have to take a ferry over to Balohan Port, Sabang Island.
- Ferries run several times a day, but schedules can vary due to weather, festive periods, or peak seasons. If possible, do check ferry schedules in advance to confirm. There are two types of ferries heading to the island:
- Express Ferry: Passenger-only, takes around 45 minutes, highly recommended for speed and comfort
- Regular Ferry: Carries passengers, vehicles, and goods, travel time is approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
- Once you’ve arrived at the island port, you can rent a motorbike, private car, or hire a driver to take you to your accommodation or the surrounding points of interest
If you’ve booked through a tour agency, ensure transport to your accommodation or tour spots is arranged in advance. From there, getting around the island is easy as you can rent a motorbike, hire a private car/driver, hop in a tuk-tuk (rickshaw), call a taxi, book a boat transfer or even walk.
Not a fan of the trip planning stage? Take a look at our 4D3N Best of Sabang & Aceh Discovery Tour Package or contact us for more details!
Where Can I Stay?
The Hawk’s Nest View. Credit: wahyuabhiraja & thehawksnestresortsabang on Instagram
There are many choices of accommodation available of the island that range from budget to luxury. Choose your accommodation according to your personal preferences and distance from the points of interest you’re interested in visiting to avoid transportation issues. Below is a table of the more popular accommodation choices on the island:
| Area | Accommodation | Highlights |
| Iboih/Rubiah | Pulau Weh Paradise | Beachfront bungalows, sea & mountain views |
| Iboih Inn | Quiet, near Iboih Beach, popular with divers | |
| SeaGate Bungalows | Eco-friendly, family-friendly | |
| SumurTiga Coast | Freddies Santai Sumurtiga | Private beach, snorkeling access |
| Casa Nemo Beach Resort & Spa | Traditional Acehnese design, eco-conscious | |
| Gapang Coast | The Pade Dive Resort | House reef, dive-centric, beachfront |
| Anoi Itam | Anoi Itam Resort | Quieter atmosphere, closer to Balohan Port |
| Sabang Town | The Hawk’s Nest Resort | Ocean‑view villa, private beach, tranquil setting |
| Southern Coast | Yulia Resort | Secluded beach area, garden surroundings |
| Pele’s Place Bungalow | Family-friendly, quaint, relaxed setting |
What’s There To Do?
Head on a Dolphin Sighting Tour. Credit: Pexels
The island has a treasure trove of activities depending on your vibe:
- Sabang Town
- “I Love Sabang” Monument
- Sabang Anoi Itam Japanese Fort
- Tugu Simpang Garuda
- Sabang Fairview
- Paradiso Beach Park
- Tebing Emput
- Other Points of Interest
- Jaboi Geothermal Spot
- Sarang Cave Spot View
- Monument Nol (0 KM)
- Sabang-Merauke Monument
- Balohan Hill
- Sabang Anoi Itam Japanese Fort
- Dolphin Sighting Tour
- Snorkelling & Diving
- Sophie Rickmers Shipwreck
- Batee Takong
- Batee Gla
- Gapang House Reef
- Rubiah Sea Garden
- Local Beaches
- Iboih Beach
- Gapang Beach
- Sumur Tiga Beach
- Anoi Itam Beach
- Ujoung Kareung Beach
- Kasih Beach
- Pasir Putih Beach
- Tapak Gajah Beach
What’s There To Eat?
Octopus Satay. Credit: Hello Indonesia
Head to the island to enjoy a taste of authentic Acehnese cuisine. It’s is often characterised by bold, punchy flavours stemming from generous use of spices, aromatics and coconut milk. One can find homey Indonesian food, a great selection of seafood (it’s an island after all), and a selection of Western options.
Some specialty dishes include Jalak noodles, Octopus satay, Pingsun noodles, Aceh curry, Seafood BBQ, Aceh noodles, Ayam tangkap, Kuwah pliek u, Nasi gurih, Gulai kambing, and the famous Aceh coffee.
Bonus: Majority of the islanders are Muslim, which means Halal food is easily available!
Good to Know
Weather
The island has a tropical climate, which is hot and humid year-round with occasional showers.
- Best time to visit: April to October
- Best time for diving: April to October
- Best time for snorkelling: April to November. Other months are alright but water may be cloudy if it rains
- Rainy season: September to February. Peak rainy season runs from December to January
- Hot season: May to August
Beach Dress Code
Bikinis and topless sunbathing/swimming are strictly prohibited on public beaches and in other public areas. However, resorts with private beach access or designated tourist beaches may allow more relaxed swimwear guidelines, though nudity remains discouraged.
Alcohol Availability
The sale and consumption of alcohol is prohibited in Aceh under Sharia law. However, some hotels, resorts, and select establishments may discreetly serve alcohol to tourists. While Sharia law primarily applies to the locals, international and non-Muslim visitors are encouraged to remain respectful by consuming alcohol discreetly, ideally within private spaces like resorts or hotel rooms.
Dress Modestly
While Pulau Sabang is more laid-back compared to Banda Aceh, it’s still advisable to dress modestly when out in public spaces. Make sure to avoid clothing that’s too short, tight, or see-through. If you’re planning on visiting religious sites, be sure to bring a shawl to cover your head as a sign of respect.
Cash is King
Make sure to bring enough cash with you as there are a limited number of ATMs on the island, and not every place accepts card or QR payment options.
