Akesahu Beach

Geological Marvel: Freshwater Pools at the Beachfront

The most striking characteristic of Pantai Akesahu, setting it apart from thousands of other beaches in Indonesia, is the presence of natural hot spring pools located right at the edge of the beach. Scientifically, this phenomenon is linked to the volcanic activity of Mount Kie Matubu, which dominates the topography of Tidore Island. Although the seawater in front of it feels salty and cold, the water emerging from the crevices of the rocks in the Akesahu pools is actually warm freshwater.

This uniqueness creates an extraordinary contrast. Visitors can experience the sensation of soaking in warm, mineral-rich water while gazing at the vast expanse of the blue ocean. The temperature of the hot springs here is relatively stable and comfortable for human skin, believed by the local community to have healing properties, ranging from relaxing tense muscles to helping treat various skin ailments.

Coastal Landscape and Biodiversity

Visually, Pantai Akesahu presents a dramatic aesthetic. Unlike beaches in South Java with wide white sand, Akesahu is dominated by dark volcanic rock formations that contrast with the clear seawater. In some spots, there are stretches of fine sand, but its main attraction remains the natural rock structures framing the hot spring pools.

The vegetation around the beach is well-preserved. Large shade trees, such as ketapang and old banyan trees, grow lushly along the coastline, providing natural shade from the equatorial sun. The dangling roots of the trees amidst the rocks create an ancient and exotic coastal forest impression. On the landward side, the towering backdrop of Mount Kie Matubu provides a majestic green silhouette, creating a complete scenic composition of mountain, forest, and sea.

Outdoor Activities and Tourist Experience

Pantai Akesahu offers a variety of activities that blend relaxation and light adventure:

1. Hot Spring Therapy: The main activity is soaking in the natural hot spring pools. There are separate pools for men and women, traditionally arranged to maintain visitor comfort and privacy.

2. Snorkeling in Shallow Waters: The sea in front of Pantai Akesahu has relatively calm currents with good visibility. Tourists can observe the recovering coral reef ecosystem and various types of ornamental fish living among the coral rocks.

3. Nature Photography: With a backdrop blending stone pools, lush trees, and views of Halmahera Island across the sea, Akesahu is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. The sunrise moments here are spectacular as the beach faces east.

4. Local Culinary Tourism: Around the beach area, visitors can enjoy typical Tidore cuisine such as Sagu Lempeng or ikan asar (smoked fish), while enjoying the sea breeze.

Best Time to Visit and Seasonal Variations

For the best experience, a visit to Pantai Akesahu is recommended in the morning between 06:00 and 09:00 WIT. At this time, the air is still very fresh, and the temperature of the hot springs feels like a strong contrast to the cool morning air. Additionally, the morning sunlight filtering through the gaps in the trees creates a beautiful tyndall effect on the surface of the pools.

Seasonally, April to October is the ideal time as the rainfall intensity in North Maluku tends to be low and sea conditions are calmer. However, soaking in the hot springs during a light drizzle in the afternoon also offers a different melancholic and relaxing sensation for some tourists.

Conservation Status and Environmental Protection

The Tidore Islands City Government, along with the local community, places great importance on the preservation of Pantai Akesahu. This area is managed as an ecotourism zone that prioritizes the protection of groundwater resources. Given that the hot springs originate from the mountain's hydrological system, protecting the forests on the slopes of Kie Matubu is key to the sustainability of the water flow in Akesahu.

Conservation efforts also focus on keeping the beach free from plastic waste. Visitors are strongly urged not to use soap or chemical shampoos when bathing in the natural pools to maintain the purity of the water's minerals and prevent pollution that could damage the surrounding marine ecosystem.

Accessibility and Supporting Facilities

Reaching Pantai Akesahu is a pleasant journey with captivating coastal views. From the city center of Soasio, the capital of Tidore, the beach is only about a 10-15 minute drive by motorized vehicle. The road access is smoothly paved, following the winding coastline.

For travelers from outside the island, the journey begins from Sultan Babullah Airport in Ternate, followed by a crossing to Rum Port in Tidore using a speedboat for 15 minutes, then a land journey of about 40 minutes to the location.

Facilities at Pantai Akesahu are continuously being improved without compromising its natural aesthetics. There is adequate parking, changing rooms, toilets, and gazebos or "fola" (small houses) for relaxation. The presence of local stalls managed by residents also makes it easy for visitors to get light food and drinks without needing to bring excessive provisions.

Pantai Akesahu is a tangible testament to the extraordinary natural wealth of North Maluku. It is not just a tourist spot, but a natural laboratory showcasing the dynamism of Tidore's earth. With its unique geological blend, beautiful vegetation, and tranquil atmosphere, Pantai Akesahu deserves to be crowned a must-visit destination for anyone seeking peace amidst the grandeur of Indonesia's Eastern tropical nature.