Tourists frequently overlook Seram Island in Maluku, Indonesia, which is a hidden gem. With its stunning landscapes, including jungles, mountains, beaches, and diverse wildlife, it offers a secluded paradise for those seeking a unique travel experience. In this travel guide, we will provide information on how to reach Seram Island and Ora Beach, where to stay, the best things to do in the area, and other essential details to help you plan your trip.
Getting to Seram Island can be a bit challenging, as there is no active airport on the island. The nearest airport is Pattimura International Airport in Ambon, which offers direct flights from major cities in Indonesia such as Jakarta, Makassar, Ternate, and Sorong. Once you arrive at Ambon, you will need to take a taxi for about an hour to reach the ferry port in Tulehu. From there, you can catch a fast ferry that will take approximately two hours to reach Amahai port on Seram Island.
After arriving on Seram Island, the next step is to reach Saleman Village and Ora Beach. It takes around two hours to drive from Amahai to Saleman, and the scenic jungle road offers breathtaking views along the way. While the road is paved, there may be some broken spots. Many hotels in Ora or Saleman can arrange for a car and driver to pick you up from Amahai and take you to the bay. It is recommended to book in advance and inquire about the current prices. Once you reach Saleman village, you can reach Ora Beach by a short 10-minute boat ride. The guesthouses in Saleman also offer boat tours to Ora Beach Resort, allowing you to explore other places in the area.
When it comes to accommodation options, there are several highly rated guesthouses in the Ora Bay area that offer budget-friendly and comfortable stays. While luxury is not to be expected in this remote part of Indonesia, the comfort level is surprisingly good considering the isolation. Some of the best options include Ora Sunrise View, Air Belanda Resort, Nusa Nalan Beach Resort, Sing Key Beach Hotel, and Pasir Putih Homestay. These guesthouses offer great views of the karst mountains, Ora Bay, the ocean, and stunning sunrises and sunsets. It is important to note that Ora Beach Resort, which used to be the prime place to stay in Seram, has received negative reviews regarding maintenance issues. It is advisable to stay at one of the guesthouses in Saleman village instead.
Seram Island offers a range of exciting activities and attractions. One of the main highlights is Ora Beach, which boasts stunning overwater bungalows and a picturesque setting reminiscent of Bora Bora. The beach has soft sand, a palm tree swing, and excellent snorkeling opportunities to witness vibrant underwater life. A small entrance fee is charged for visitors who are not staying in the bungalows. Another must-see location is the Sawai Cliff, a magnificent white limestone cliff that is only a short boat ride away from Ora Beach or Saleman. The area surrounding the cliff is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring a small sea cave. The Keramba Heart, a heart-shaped Indonesian fish trap, offers unique photo opportunities and is easily accessible by boat from Ora Beach. Dutch Water Beach (Air Belanda) is another charming beach located between Saleman village and Ora Beach Resort, known for its cold spring water flowing from the mountains.
In conclusion, Seram Island and Ora Beach in Maluku, Indonesia, are hidden paradises that offer a secluded and unforgettable travel experience. Despite the challenges of reaching the island, the stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and comfortable accommodation options make it a worthwhile destination. Whether you choose to relax on the beautiful Ora Beach, explore the Sawai Cliff, visit the Keramba Heart, or enjoy the tranquility of Dutch Water Beach, Seram Island has something to offer every traveler.
