Indonesia is a paradise for snorkelers, with its vast archipelago of over 17,000 islands, rich marine biodiversity, and pristine coral reefs. Whether you are looking for colorful fish, majestic manta rays, or exotic underwater statues, you will find something to amaze you in this tropical wonderland. Here are some of the best places to snorkel in Indonesia, in no particular order.

1. Raja Ampat
   Raja Ampat is widely regarded as the crown jewel of snorkeling in Indonesia, and for good reason. Located in the heart of the Coral Triangle, this region boasts the highest diversity of coral and fish species in the world, with over 75% of all coral types and more than 1,000 kinds of fish. You can snorkel in crystal-clear waters, along stunning reef walls, and among vibrant coral gardens. You might encounter rare and endemic species, such as the wobbegong shark, the pygmy seahorse, and the walking shark. Raja Ampat is also home to some of the best snorkeling resorts in Indonesia, where you can enjoy luxury and comfort while exploring the underwater wonders.
2. Komodo National Park
   Komodo National Park is not only famous for its giant lizards, but also for its spectacular snorkeling opportunities. The park encompasses three main islands: Komodo, Rinca, and Padar, as well as many smaller ones. The marine life here is diverse and abundant, with over 260 species of coral and 1,000 species of fish. You can snorkel with manta rays, turtles, dolphins, and even whales. You can also admire the stunning scenery of the park, with its rugged hills, savannahs, and mangroves.
3. Nusa Penida
   Nusa Penida is a large island off the southeast coast of Bali, and a popular destination for snorkelers and divers. The island offers some of the best chances to see the elusive ocean sunfish, or mola mola, which can grow up to 3 meters in length and weigh up to 1,000 kilograms. These gentle giants can be seen from July to October, mainly at Crystal Bay. Nusa Penida is also a hotspot for manta rays, which can be found year-round at Manta Point and Manta Bay. Other attractions include the colorful coral reefs, the underwater Buddha statues, and the scenic cliffs and beaches.
4. Gili Islands
   The Gili Islands are a trio of small islands near Lombok, and a favorite destination for backpackers and beach lovers. The islands are surrounded by coral reefs, which are easily accessible from the shore. The Gili Islands are one of the best places in the world to snorkel with sea turtles, which are plentiful and friendly. You can also see a variety of fish, such as clownfish, angelfish, and triggerfish. If you are feeling adventurous, you can snorkel around the underwater sculptures at Gili Meno, which are part of an art installation called The Nest.
5. Wakatobi National Park
   Wakatobi National Park is a remote and pristine marine park in Southeast Sulawesi, consisting of four main islands: Wangi-Wangi, Kaledupa, Tomia, and Binongko. The park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and has some of the healthiest and most diverse coral reefs in the world. You can snorkel in calm and clear waters, and see more than 750 species of coral and 900 species of fish. You can also spot dolphins, whales, and dugongs. Wakatobi National Park is an ideal destination for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy nature at its best.
6. Bunaken National Park
   Bunaken National Park is a marine park in North Sulawesi, near the city of Manado. The park is famous for its coral walls, which drop down to depths of over 1,000 meters. The walls are covered with sponges, sea fans, and soft corals, and are home to a variety of fish, such as butterflyfish, parrotfish, and lionfish. You can also see turtles, sharks, rays, and barracudas. Bunaken National Park is a great place to snorkel for beginners and experts alike, as the currents are mild and the visibility is good.
7. Menjangan Island
   Menjangan Island is a small island in the northwest corner of Bali, and part of the West Bali National Park. The island is known for its coral walls, which are some of the best in Bali. You can snorkel along the walls, and see a plethora of fish, such as snappers, groupers, and jacks. You can also explore the underwater caves, where you might find moray eels, lobsters, and shrimps. Menjangan Island is also a good place to see deer, which often swim across the channel from the mainland.
8. Pulau Weh
   Pulau Weh is a volcanic island at the northern tip of Sumatra, and a hidden gem for snorkelers and divers. The island has a diverse and pristine marine environment, with over 100 species of coral and 500 species of fish. You can snorkel in the clear and warm waters, and see colorful reef fish, turtles, sharks, rays, and dolphins. You can also visit the underwater volcano, where you can see bubbles and steam rising from the seabed.
9. Derawan Islands
   The Derawan Islands are a group of islands in East Kalimantan, and one of the most biodiverse marine areas in Indonesia. The islands have a variety of snorkeling sites, ranging from coral reefs, to mangroves, to seagrass beds. You can snorkel with manta rays, whale sharks, turtles, dugongs, and dolphins. You can also see the unique jellyfish lake, where you can swim with millions of stingless jellyfish.
10. Togean Islands
    The Togean Islands are a cluster of islands in the Gulf of Tomini, in Central Sulawesi. The islands are remote and unspoiled, and offer some of the best snorkeling in Indonesia. You can snorkel in the turquoise waters, and see stunning coral reefs, teeming with fish. You can also snorkel around the sunken WWII bomber plane, which is now a habitat for many marine creatures. The Togean Islands are also home to the Bajau people, or sea gypsies, who live in stilt houses over the water.

These are just some of the amazing places to snorkel in Indonesia, but there are many more to discover. Indonesia is a snorkeler’s dream, with its endless beauty and diversity. So grab your mask and fins, and get ready to explore the underwater wonders of this incredible country.