Wakatobi Resort’s new Courtyard Residences are now open

Discover a remote island escape where world-class diving, refined luxury and meaningful marine conservation come together in perfect harmony at Wakatobi Resort in Indonesia’s Southeast Sulawesi. 

As your private flight from Bali descends towards a speck of sun-kissed island in Southeast Sulawesi, the world begins to fade away. Below, the ocean spreads in shifting shades of turquoise and indigo, embracing a sliver of land so untouched it feels as though time forgot it. Surrounded by 20 kilometres of marine park and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the heart of the Coral Triangle, Wakatobi Resort is home to some of the most biodiverse reefs on Earth. Here, you won’t see other dive boats dotting the horizon. In fact, there are no other divers within 160 kilometres. What you will find is access to more than 40 exceptional dive and snorkel sites, a house reef just steps from your room that has earned global recognition as the world’s best shore dive, plus a world-class team of guides ready to help you explore it all, whether you’re a seasoned diver or slipping on fins for the first time.

Founded in 1996 with the simple yet radical concept that nature and local communities could not only coexist but thrive together, today, more than 100 former fishermen are employed by Wakatobi Dive Resort as reef guardians. These are the people who once cast their nets in these waters and now protect them with pride. Their work is supported by a resident marine biologist who oversees ongoing research using AI-assisted photo surveys, acoustic monitoring, and eDNA sampling to ensure the reefs remain healthy and remarkably vibrant. This commitment to sustainability is expanding.

As Wakatobi continues its mission, in 2026, the resort is projected to expand its private marine protected area to 60 kilometres through a new program, allowing for corporations to invest directly in reef health for mutual benefit through expansion. This exciting initiative is proving that luxury and conservation go hand in hand. At Wakatobi, that cycle is clear: the reefs flourish, guests thrive, and each fuels the other. That is why Wakatobi will remain a knockout destination for generations to come. It’s for travellers who dream of their next destination as not just luxurious, but somewhere that attests to something greater than themselves. It’s proof that the most remarkable adventures are those that truly give back. 

Wakatobi Courtyard Residences now open

Still, the experience is every bit as refined as it is responsible, with Wakatobi Dive Resort dedicated to providing guests with an unparalleled stay. Guests can opt for oceanfront bungalows, luxurious villas or the new Wakatobi Courtyard Residences. Nestled at the northern end of the island, this secluded resort-within-a-resort has been designed for those who want the best parts of a luxury hotel with the seclusion and flexibility of their own private retreat. The Residence, designed to comfortably accommodate up to eight guests, blends indoor and outdoor living across expansive oceanfront spaces. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame endless sea views, private courtyards channel sunlight into living areas and a central private pool beckons for unhurried swims. Lounge and dining spaces flow with the ocean breeze or retreat into air-conditioned comfort, creating a sanctuary that feels effortless and extraordinary.

A range of bespoke services, including a private butler and boat services that originate from a dedicated landing jetty, are part of an experience where everything is taken care of, yet nothing is imposed. Your personal dive and snorkel guide offers the freedom to explore more than 40 exceptional underwater sites at your own pace, or to stay and explore the house reef, which has earned global acclaim as the world’s best shore dive. Underwater photographers have access to pressurised air, rinse tanks and editing facilities. And families can tailor experiences for children, from Bubblemaker programs to advanced underwater photography courses. If diving isn’t your style, Wakatobi’s magic extends above the tide line. Learn to kitesurf, indulge in signature spa rituals, take a private island picnic, or simply watch the horizon blush at sunset with a glass of something cold and rare in hand.

Wakatobi’s appeal extends beyond the reef. Take a turn at kitesurfing, savour a private island picnic, or simply relax with a cool drink as the sun sinks into the horizon. And for the ultimate touch of island indulgence, every guest is invited to enjoy a daily signature spa ritual. The culinary service is equally exceptional. A private team crafts menus to suit exacting preferences, whether that’s a poolside seaside feast with friends, a refined multi-course dinner for two, or a quiet breakfast by the pool while you’re still half-dreaming. And if you’re heading out on the water, your crew won’t let you go hungry. Even on the boat, between dives, you’ll indulge in decadent picnic spreads that continue the resort’s ethos of freshness, creativity and precision. At Wakatobi Courtyard Residence, luxury comes with space, service and sunsets, but it is the freedom to set your own pace and enjoy a rare sense of ownership over your stay that elevates the experience beyond the ordinary.

Wakatobi Resort keeps guests connected and safe in remote paradise

Wakatobi Dive Resort is linked to the global network via Starlink satellite and terrestrial internet, providing reliable access for email, messaging and video calls. Mobile coverage is now available throughout the islands, and in the rare case of network failure, satellite phones and long-range radios provide reliable backup. Safety is also a top priority. Dive and snorkel guides are equipped with Nautilus marine GPS units, enabling instant alerts and precise location tracking in case of emergency. The resort has a full stock of medical supplies, access to a local clinic, and the capacity for emergency evacuations via its private airstrip. Even in its serene setting, Wakatobi remains ready to handle everything from minor scrapes to urgent medical needs—ensuring peace of mind while delivering a world-class holiday experience.

What is Wakatobi Resort famous for?

In the early 1990s, Swiss explorer and diver Lorenz Mäder embarked on a multi-year quest to locate the finest coral reefs in the Indo-Pacific region. It led him to an area known as the Tukang Besi archipelago, once labelled an “underwater nirvana” by diving pioneer Jacques Cousteau. Mäder was equally fascinated by what he called the most stunning coral reefs he’d ever encountered, and wanted to create a divers’ outpost to give others access to the region. And so Wakatobi Resort was born – the name an acronym of the archipelago’s four main islands: WangiWangi, Kaledupa, Tomia and Binongko.

What is Wakatobi Regency?

Mäder’s efforts changed the map – literally. As Wakatobi gained notoriety in diving and snorkelling circles, the entire region was increasingly referred to as Wakatobi. In 2002, the Indonesian government created the Wakatobi National Park; the following year, the Wakatobi Regency was officially established. In 2012, Wakatobi was named a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

Sustainable practices and conservation at Wakatobi Resort

Before breaking ground, Mäder visited local villages and met with fishermen and respected elders in the community to offer a unique proposition. In exchange for honouring specific ‘no-take’ zones within his proposed marine reserve, the resort would dedicate a portion of guest revenue to making direct payments to the community. The Wakatobi Collaborative Reef Conservation Program, as it is now known, helps to keep the reefs free from destructive fishing methods, and local community members receive a direct monthly income and other benefits from Wakatobi Resort.

Without Wakatobi’s strategically chosen location and protective efforts, guests wouldn’t be able to witness the many wonders of the reef. Frequent finds include giant colonies of rose corals, enormous sea fans, an impressive number of sea turtles, an abundance of macro critters such as pygmy seahorses and fire-gobys, and a myriad of damselfish, including clownfish, hidden in brightly colored anemones scattered throughout the reef. All sites are renowned for their exceptional opportunities for both macro and wide-angle photography. Wakatobi’s biodiverse environment holds a special significance for experienced divers who have firsthand witnessed reef degradation in other parts of our oceans. The rarity and abundance of marine life are defining factors that draw guests to Wakatobi from across the world. 

Staying at Wakatobi Resort

At Wakatobi Resort, enjoy five-star service, gourmet dining, opulent accommodations, and exclusive access to some of the most pristine coral reefs in the world. And while savouring the peace and relaxation at one of the world’s most pristine island getaways, feel secure knowing that your stay supports behind-the-scenes initiatives to protect marine life, while also providing an income to nearby local communities.

Relaxation comes easily in traditionally styled bungalows set in a beachfront coconut grove. Each private residence is handcrafted by local artisans from native stone and local woods, then fitted with all the modern conveniences you could possibly desire. Even more memorable stays await in Wakatobi Resort’s oceanfront villas, which up the wow factor with panoramic waterfront decks delivering sunset views, Asian-style outdoor showers and plunge pools. Indulge in added perks such as personal butler services, private boats for diving and snorkelling, on-site spa treatments, and private guides.

Meals are a highlight of a Wakatobi Resort vacation, with its oceanfront restaurant showcasing the talents of an internationally trained culinary team, framed against a backdrop of the sea and rustling palms. Come sundown, sip a cocktail and dine on locally sourced food either in the onsite restaurant or a personalised beachside experience with your feet in the sand.

All manner of treatments and massages are available in the onsite spa to ensure you’re ready for another long day of diving, because as guest Paul Moliken says, you can never get enough of it. “I have done at least 50 to 60 snorkels on the house reef since my first trip to Wakatobi Resort in 2015, and it never fails to astound me. There’s truly nothing like it.”

Things to do at Wakatobi Resort

You don’t have to travel far to explore this underwater utopia. Wakatobi Resort’s house reef is just offshore from the resort beach, home to octopi, huge morays, turtles, cuttlefish, pipefish, mantis shrimp and anemone fish. To go further afield, hop aboard one of the resort’s small taxi boats or a large day boat to access more than 40 additional diving and snorkelling sites within the protected reserve.

Wakatobi Resort’s luxury dive yacht, Pelagian, can take you further afield, to seldom-visited corners of the Tukang Besi archipelago. Onboard are five ensuite cabins, opulent places to lounge and an outdoor table where you can dine al fresco, or sip on an apéritif while the sun sets.

Wakatobi Resort for families

Want to holiday with the kids? With a childcare facilitator at Wakatobi Resort, parents can spend days diving while the little ones learn palm weaving, coconut tree harvesting or going on nature hunts. And in years to come, they too can discover this underwater world where rare marine life roams.

When should I visit Wakatobi Resort?

Wakatobi is located in one of the drier areas of Indonesia and the waters are suitable for diving all year round. However, rain is typically more common between March and November, while September to November is considered peak season.

How do you get to Wakatobi Resort?

Wakatobi Resort sits on a small island in southeast Sulawesi far from crowds, city lights and other reminders of the outside world. But distance isn’t a problem, as guests enjoy a direct connection through a private charter flight from Bali. Travellers are met at Bali’s airport and provided with terminal-to-room concierge services.

Along the way, Wakatobi provides expedited international arrivals, concierge luggage and layover assistance, and access to a private airport lounge before departure for the resort. On arrival at Wakatobi, guests are greeted by staff who take pride in providing warm personal service.