Things To Do
in Sanana
Sanana is a laid-back town on Sanana Island in North Maluku, Indonesia, surrounded by turquoise seas and lush green hills. It serves as a compact gateway to the Sula Islands, with a busy fishing port and modest visitor facilities. The pace is relaxed, the hospitality warm, and seafood is a daily highlight for visitors.
The town blends traditional maritime life with budding eco-tourism and island-hopping opportunities to nearby islets.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the historic streets of Sanana, soaking in the rich heritage of this vibrant town. Visit the mesmerizing old colonial buildings that tell tales of the past, and explore local markets bustling with morning activity. Don’t forget to savor a traditional breakfast at a local warung, enjoying dishes like nasi goreng with fresh ingredients.
In the afternoon, head to the Sanana Museum to delve deeper into the history and culture of the region, where exhibits showcase artifacts and stories of the local people. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, where you can enjoy stunning views of the sea and watch fishermen at work. Stop at a beachfront café to indulge in fresh seafood for lunch, accompanied by the sound of waves lapping against the shore.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at one of the local restaurants for dinner, enjoying the flavors of traditional Indonesian cuisine. Join a guided night tour to experience Sanana's vibrant nightlife, including local music and dance performances. Wind down your evening with a refreshing drink at a beachside bar, listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean.
Set off early in the morning for an exhilarating day of island hopping around the nearby islands of Sula. Board a traditional wooden boat, enjoying the sea breeze as you cruise to hidden gems like Mangole and Taliabu. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful marine life, discovering the beauty of the underwater world.
In the afternoon, visit a secluded beach on one of the islands, where you can relax on soft sands or partake in a beach volleyball game with locals. Enjoy a picnic lunch prepared by your boat crew, featuring fresh fruits and grilled fish, while taking in the breathtaking scenery. After lunch, continue your exploration by visiting local villages to learn about their unique traditions and way of life.
Return to Sanana in the early evening, where you can freshen up before heading out for dinner. Experience a seafood feast at a popular restaurant known for its freshly caught fish, paired with local spicy sambal. End your day with a stroll along the beach, watching the stars twinkle above in the clear night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🛏️One night in a mid-range hotel | $25-50 |
| 🚶Local transportation per ride | $1-3 |
| 🛒Groceries (basic staples) per week | $15-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a relaxed pace
- Access to pristine beaches and nearby islets
- Limited infrastructure and services
- Remote and seasonally dependent travel options
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Berapa harga ini?" - How much is this?
- "Tolong bantu saya" - Please help me
- "Apakah ada menu vegetarian?" - Is there a vegetarian menu?
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Sanana
Visit one of these nice places.
A long white-sand beach with palm trees, ideal for golden-hour photography and long-exposure sea shots.
Active fishing harbor with boats, nets, and morning light creating dynamic compositions.
A hilltop overlooking the coast and nearby islets, offering sweeping panoramas at sunrise or sunset.
Food in Sanana
Sanana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A sago porridge served with a tangy yellow fish soup, best enjoyed with lime and chili.
Must-Try!
Grilled fish served with spicy chili sauce and a squeeze of lime.
Spicy marinated raw fish salad, bright with lime, chili, and shredded coconut.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning market offering fresh fish, vegetables, fruit, and ready-to-eat snacks; try grilled fish and fresh coconut water.
Evening stalls with street foods, fruit smoothies, and local sweets along the waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in public; shoulders and knees should be covered in religious or traditional areas; use respectful greetings.
A light handshake is common; use the right hand; avoid pointing at people or objects with the foot; ask before photographing locals.
Safety
Tipping in Sanana
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; leave small tips (5–10%) in restaurants and to tour guides for good service.
Cash in Indonesian Rupiah is widely accepted; some hotels and larger shops may take cards, but carry cash for street vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically sunny with calm seas; great for outdoor activities and snorkeling, though temperatures can be hot and dry.
More frequent rain and rougher seas; fewer crowds and lush green landscapes, with dramatic stormy skies possible.
Sanana at Night
Hiking in Sanana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle hike along the coastline with sea views and reef sightings.
A short mountain walk leading to panoramic harbor and island views.
Airports
How to reach Sanana by plane.
Small domestic airport with limited schedules; practical for regional travel to Ambon or Ternate.
Major regional hub with connections to Jakarta and other Indonesian cities.
Key gateway to the Maluku Islands with more domestic flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly ethnic Maluku communities with maritime and farming traditions.
A significant portion of residents rely on fishing and boat-based livelihoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, played in schools and local leagues.
Common in community centers and youth groups.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sanana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In a fish-rich region, vegetarian options exist but may be limited. Opt for rice with vegetables, tofu, tempeh, and to avoid fish/meat; clearly request no fish and use plenty of vegetables and eggs if allowed.