Hidden deep in the heart of Indonesia lies a place few travelers know—but those who do never forget. Saleh Bay, nestled between the dramatic landscapes of Sumbawa Island, is a place where time slows down, traditions thrive, and the ocean comes alive with one of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles: whale sharks.
If you’ve ever dreamed of swimming beside the world’s largest fish in a quiet, untouched paradise, the Saleh Bay whale shark tour offers a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience—without the crowds, chaos, or commercialism of mainstream destinations.
This is your invitation to explore Indonesia’s best-kept secret, one where marine magic meets local culture and adventure becomes personal.
Where Is Saleh Bay and Why Is It Special?
Saleh Bay (Teluk Saleh) is a large, protected bay located in the north-central region of Sumbawa Island, part of Indonesia’s West Nusa Tenggara province. Unlike its famous neighbors—Bali, Lombok, and Komodo—Sumbawa remains largely unexplored by international tourists, offering raw beauty, cultural authenticity, and pristine natural habitats.
But what truly sets Saleh Bay apart is its resident population of whale sharks. These gentle giants are drawn to the bay by local fishing practices, making this one of the few places in the world where sightings are frequent, ethical, and accessible.
What Makes the Saleh Bay Whale Shark Tour Unique?
Most whale shark tours around the world require offshore boat rides, hours of searching, and a bit of luck. But in Saleh Bay, the experience is different:
1. Predictable Sightings
Thanks to the presence of traditional fishing platforms known as bagan, whale sharks are drawn to the surface by small fish that escape or are released from nets. This interaction means sightings happen almost daily during peak season.
2. Snorkel-Friendly
You don’t need to be a diver to join. The whale sharks swim close to the surface, making snorkeling an easy and unforgettable way to witness them up close.
3. Authentic Local Involvement
Tours are often operated by local fishermen and community groups who have lived in harmony with these waters for generations. Choosing a Saleh Bay whale shark tour helps support local livelihoods and promotes conservation.
4. Sustainable Tourism Model
Unlike overcrowded destinations where animals are often stressed, Saleh Bay has adopted guidelines to ensure safe, low-impact interactions. Local guides emphasize education, respect, and marine protection.
What to Expect on a Saleh Bay Whale Shark Tour
Here’s a glimpse into what your tour might look like:
Early Start
Most tours begin before sunrise to catch the best conditions. You’ll travel by boat from a nearby village (such as Labuan Jambu or Sumbawa Besar), heading into the calm, mirror-like waters of Saleh Bay.
Bagan Visit
You’ll approach one of the floating bagan—wooden fishing platforms suspended by bamboo and nets. Look closely, and you might already see the shadows circling below.
The Encounter
Once the guide gives the signal, you enter the water. What happens next is pure magic. A whale shark—perhaps 5 meters long, maybe 10—glides gracefully past you, its spotted body shimmering in the morning light. It’s peaceful, powerful, and profoundly humbling.
You’ll likely have multiple opportunities to swim, watch, photograph, and simply be in the presence of these incredible animals.
After the Swim
Most tours include snacks or lunch onboard or at a nearby village. You’ll return to shore by midday, full of adrenaline and awe.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Saleh Bay?
The ideal season for whale shark sightings in Saleh Bay is from May to October, during Indonesia’s dry season. During this time:
- Waters are calm and clear.
- Whale shark sightings are most consistent.
- Travel conditions (flights, roads, and boats) are smoother.
While off-season visits are possible, your chances of spotting whale sharks may decrease due to weather and migration patterns.
How to Get to Saleh Bay
Getting to Saleh Bay is part of the adventure. Here’s how to reach it:
By Air:
- Fly to Sumbawa Besar Airport (SWQ) from Bali or Lombok.
- From the airport, travel by car or motorbike to Saleh Bay (approx. 3–4 hours depending on your starting point).
By Sea:
- Take a ferry from Lombok (Labuhan Lombok) to Poto Tano port in Sumbawa.
- Continue overland to Saleh Bay or arrange for pick-up with your tour provider.
Most travelers choose to stay in nearby villages like Labuan Jambu or Dompu, which serve as gateways to the bay.
What to Bring for Your Whale Shark Tour
Here’s what you should pack for a comfortable and responsible experience:
- Reef-safe sunscreen (very important)
- Swimwear and towel
- Underwater camera or GoPro
- Snorkel gear (some tours provide it, but check ahead)
- Dry bag for electronics
- Cash for local purchases or tips
- Open heart (seriously—you’ll need it!)
Responsible Travel Tips
Swimming with whale sharks is a privilege, not a right. Here’s how you can help protect these animals:
- Never touch the whale sharks—their skin is sensitive, and human contact can harm them.
- Stay at least 3–4 meters away and avoid swimming directly in front of them.
- Avoid flash photography or loud splashing.
- Choose local, ethical tour operators who follow conservation guidelines.
- Limit your time in the water to reduce stress on the animals.
Your respect helps preserve this experience for future generations.
Other Attractions Near Saleh Bay
Don’t rush back after your whale shark tour—Sumbawa has much more to offer:
- Mount Tambora – Hike the legendary volcano that triggered the “Year Without a Summer” in 1815.
- Moyo Island – A protected marine paradise with waterfalls, coral reefs, and wild deer.
- Lakey Peak – One of Indonesia’s most iconic surf spots, ideal for wave chasers.
- Traditional Villages – Experience weaving, music, and food passed down through generations.
Why Saleh Bay Is Worth the Journey
The Saleh Bay whale shark tour isn’t just a tourist activity—it’s a transformational experience. It strips away the filters, the crowds, and the commercial polish, and replaces them with something far more valuable: connection.
Connection to the sea. To the community. And to the largest fish on Earth, swimming quietly beneath you like a living submarine.
So if you’re ready to trade the typical for the truly unforgettable, set your sights on Sumbawa. Saleh Bay is waiting—and the whale sharks are already there.