Sulamadaha Beach

Exploring the Crystal Charm of Sulamadaha Beach: Ternate's Hidden Gem

Ternate, a volcanic island in North Maluku, is renowned not only for its long history of spice trading but also for its extraordinary coastal natural wealth. At the northern tip of this island lies a destination that has become an icon of North Maluku's natural tourism: Sulamadaha Beach. Widely known for its glass-like water clarity, Sulamadaha offers a natural tourism experience that blends marine geological beauty with the tranquility of coastal tropical forests.

#

Geological Characteristics and Visual Beauty

Sulamadaha Beach possesses characteristics distinct from beaches in western Indonesia. While many popular beaches boast expansive white sand, Sulamadaha is dominated by exotic black volcanic rocks, a reminder of Ternate Island's origin shaped by the activity of Mount Gamalama. The contrast between the dark black basalt rocks and the turquoise blue seawater creates a dramatic and photogenic landscape.

The primary uniqueness of this beach lies in its geographical shape resembling the letter "U". The beach is divided into two main areas: the front beach area with black sand and public facilities, and a small, hidden cove named Saomadaha, which can be reached by walking along a path on the cliff edge for about 10 minutes.

#

Underwater Ecosystem and Marine Biodiversity

Sulamadaha's magical allure lies beneath its surface. In Saomadaha Cove, the water is so clear that boats moored there appear to be floating in mid-air. This phenomenon is possible due to the calm waters, protected from strong offshore currents, which prevent sediment from easily rising to the surface.

The coral reef ecosystem around Sulamadaha remains well-preserved. Visitors can find various types of hard corals and soft corals that are home to thousands of marine creatures. Reef fish such as Clownfish, Parrotfish, and even sea turtles occasionally make an appearance in this area. This biodiversity is supported by the very clean water quality, with minimal industrial pollution.

#

Outdoor Activities and Tourist Experience

Sulamadaha is not just a place to sit idly; it's a playground for water activity enthusiasts. Some of the main experiences offered include:

1. Snorkeling and Diving: With visibility reaching 15-20 meters, snorkeling here is a must. You don't need to swim too far offshore to witness the underwater beauty; just a few meters from the shoreline, the marine park welcomes you.

2. Floating with Inner Tubes: The most popular activity for local tourists is renting inner tubes and floating leisurely on the crystal-clear waters of Saomadaha while enjoying the reflection of green trees on the water's surface.

3. Exploring by Traditional Boat: Visitors can rent wooden boats from local fishermen to cross to Hiri Island, which stands majestically right in front of the beach. This short journey offers a different perspective on the grandeur of Ternate's volcanic cliffs.

4. Coastal Trekking: The path leading to the hidden cove offers a light trekking experience under the shade of large trees, where the chirping of endemic Maluku birds can sometimes be heard amidst the dense forest.

#

Best Time to Visit

To get the best visual experience, the timing of your visit is crucial. The dry season, typically from March to September, is the ideal period. During this time, the intensity of sunlight is at its peak, making the blue of the seawater appear brightest and underwater visibility exceptionally sharp.

It is highly recommended to arrive at the location in the morning, around 08:00 to 10:00 WIT. Besides the fresh air, the sun's position at this hour is perfect for penetrating the water's depth, creating the characteristic "floating boat" effect that Sulamadaha is known for.

#

Conservation and Environmental Protection

As a prime destination, Sulamadaha Beach faces preservation challenges. The local government and the aware tourism community (Pokdarwis) are continuously striving to keep the cove area clean from plastic waste. Given its sensitive coral ecosystem, visitors are strictly prohibited from touching, stepping on, or taking corals as souvenirs. Awareness for preserving the natural environment is strongly emphasized to ensure that the water clarity, the beach's main asset, is maintained for future generations.

#

Accessibility and Supporting Facilities

Sulamadaha Beach is located about 14 kilometers from the center of Ternate City. Access to the location is very easy and can be reached within 30-45 minutes by two-wheeled or four-wheeled vehicles. The road to the beach is smoothly paved, with views of the coast and the slopes of Mount Gamalama along the way.

The facilities at Sulamadaha Beach are quite adequate to support tourist comfort, including:

• Parking Area: Spacious and well-managed.
• Culinary Stalls: Lined up along the beach, serving local delicacies such as Pisang Goreng Mulut Bebek (Duck-Mouth Fried Banana), Sambal Roa (Spicy Fish Paste), and Air Guraka (Ternate's signature ginger drink).
• Equipment Rental: Snorkeling gear, floaters, and boats are available for rent at affordable prices.
• Public Facilities: Changing rooms, toilets, and a prayer room are available near the main entrance.

#

Conclusion

Sulamadaha Beach is a testament to the unparalleled natural wealth of North Maluku. It offers more than just scenery; it offers tranquility, clarity, and a deep connection with the volcanic marine environment. For anyone visiting Ternate, setting aside time to feel the coolness of the crystal waters at Sulamadaha is a must. Its well-preserved underwater beauty and unique atmosphere make it one of the best natural tourism destinations in Eastern Indonesia.