Things To Do
in Manado
Manado is a sparkling coastal city in North Sulawesi, Indonesia, and the gateway to Bunaken National Park. It blends warm Minahasan hospitality with bustling markets, colorful waterfronts, and a thriving seafood scene. The city sits on a sheltered bay with easy access to nearby islands and world-class diving sites.
Throughout the year, Manado offers vibrant culture, scenic sea views, and memorable culinary experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a boat ride to Bunaken National Marine Park, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Prepare your snorkeling or diving gear and join a guided underwater tour to explore the diverse marine life including colorful fish and sea turtles. The morning light offers perfect visibility, creating an unforgettable underwater experience.
Enjoy a beachside picnic lunch on one of the park’s pristine islands while soaking up the tropical sun. Spend the afternoon kayaking or paddleboarding around the calm waters, taking in the panoramic views of the park’s lush greenery and surrounding sea. Visit the Bunaken Marine Park Information Center to learn about local conservation efforts and the unique ecosystem.
Return to Manado and unwind with a sunset walk along Boulevard Boulevard, the vibrant waterfront promenade. Sample local seafood delicacies at a nearby restaurant while watching traditional fishing boats return to harbor. The evening atmosphere is lively with street performers and local musicians creating a warm, inviting ambiance.
Drive to the highland town of Tondano and visit the bustling local market to experience traditional Minahasan crafts and fresh produce. Explore the town’s colonial-era architecture and meet friendly locals eager to share their heritage. Capture photos of the scenic Tondano Lake with its surrounding mountains shrouded in morning mist.
Continue to Linow Lake, a unique volcanic lake known for its changing colors and warm mineral springs. Take a leisurely hike around the lake’s perimeter, breathing in the crisp mountain air and marveling at the vibrant hues of the water. Stop for a traditional Minahasan lunch at a nearby village, savoring spicy sambal and freshly caught fish.
Head back to Manado city and visit a local cultural center to watch traditional Minahasan dance performances. Engage with performers to learn about the symbolic meanings behind their costumes and movements. End the evening with a quiet dinner at a café that serves local coffee blends and tropical fruit desserts.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🫕Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🍺Local beer | $2-4 |
| 🏨One-night mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (1-5 miles) | $4-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to world-class diving and snorkeling near Bunaken and Lembeh Strait
- Rich Minahasan culture and delicious, fiery seafood
- Relatively affordable costs and friendly people
- Compact city center with walkable waterfront areas
- Nightlife is modest compared with larger tourist hubs
- Some journeys (to volcanoes or distant parks) require long drives
- Weather can be humid and rainy, affecting outdoor plans
- Infrastructure outside the city can be variable
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Tolong" - Please / Help me
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is it?
- "Di mana kamar mandi?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Saya tidak bisa" - I cannot / I don’t understand
- "Ayo pergi" - Let's go
- "Selamat malam" - Good evening
Places to Visit in Manado
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful boats, working harbor life, and the bay make for dynamic sunrise and sunset photography along the waterfront.
A popular spot for sunset shots with calm sea views and silhouetted palm trees.
World-renowned for macro underwater photography; a photographer’s paradise if you’re diving or snorkeling nearby.
Coastal viewpoints and the crystal-clear waters near Bunaken offer striking seascapes and reef silhouettes.
Food in Manado
Manado Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty porridge made with corn, leafy greens, and sometimes seafood or mushrooms, typically eaten for breakfast and beloved as a local comfort dish.
Must-Try!
A fiery Minahasan chili sauce or dish featuring chilies, garlic, and spices, often served with meat or seafood.
A fresh, bright salsa of chopped chilies, tomatoes, and lime, served as a vibrant topping for fish and other dishes.
Smoked skipjack tuna prepared with a tangy, smoky flavor, commonly enjoyed with rice and vegetables.
A sour and savory fish soup cooked with tamarind, lemongrass, and spices; a staple in Manado households.
A Minahasan corn and cassava-based soup often paired with meat or fish, rich in flavor and comforting texture.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling traditional market where you can sample fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and regional snacks, best explored early in the day.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local customs by covering shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites; remove shoes if asked and greet elders with a polite 'Selamat pagi/siang'.
Use the right hand for giving or receiving, avoid public displays of affection in conservative areas, and ask before taking photos of people.
Ask before photographing traditional performances or artisans; show appreciation for hospitality and shared meals.
Safety
Tipping in Manado
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not compulsory. Round up bills or leave a small tip for good service in restaurants and for tour guides.
Cash (IDR) is widely accepted; many restaurants and hotels also take credit cards. Digital wallets and mobile payments (e-wallets) are increasingly common in urban areas and tourist spots.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically drier and sunnier, ideal for outdoor activities, island hopping, and snorkeling or diving with clear water visibility.
Expect more frequent rain and stronger humidity; seas can be rougher and some boat trips may be delayed, so plan flexible itineraries.
Manado at Night
Hiking in Manado
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike with crater views and volcanic scenery, typically combined with highland sightseeing.
An accessible crater hike offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and Lake Tondano vicinity.
Short trails around a sulfur-laden crater lake with striking natural colors and photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Manado by plane.
Main airport serving Manado; connects domestic routes and a limited number of international flights. Located about 13-15 km from central Manado, with taxi or ride-hailing options to the city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A major ethnic group in North Sulawesi with a rich cultural heritage and prominent in local customs and cuisine.
Diverse regional groups contributing to the cultural mosaic of the area.
A visible minority in urban centers who participate in commerce and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely popular due to Bunaken and Lembeh Strait; tours, guides, and equipment rentals are common in Manado.
A common pastime and community activity across neighborhoods.
Swimming, paddleboarding, and beach games are common around the harbor and coastal areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Manado.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Manado dishes center on seafood or meat, so look for vegetable-forward choices like tinutuan, vegetable curries, tofu dishes, and fruit salads. Ask for no fish stock and request oil-free preparations when possible.