Indonesia is home to some of the most biodiverse marine life in the world—from colorful coral reefs in Raja Ampat to the manta rays of Nusa Penida. Yet, there’s one awe-inspiring ocean encounter that still flies under the radar: swimming with the whale shark in Sumbawa.
Unlike more commercialized whale shark destinations like the Philippines or Mexico, Sumbawa offers a raw, authentic experience. Here, you won’t find overcrowded boats or a frenzy of snorkelers. Instead, you’ll discover a quiet bay, local fishermen, and the surreal feeling of sharing the sea with the ocean’s largest fish.
If you’re planning a trip to Indonesia or simply seeking your next epic wildlife experience, this guide covers everything you need to know about encountering the whale shark in Sumbawa—including where to go, when to visit, and how to do it ethically.
What Is a Whale Shark?
Despite their massive size (up to 12 meters or more), whale sharks are not whales—they’re filter-feeding sharks and are completely harmless to humans. These gentle giants glide through warm waters, feeding on plankton and small fish. With their spotted, polka-dotted bodies and wide, flat heads, whale sharks are both alien-looking and beautiful.
For many travelers and divers, swimming alongside a whale shark is a bucket-list moment—and one you’ll never forget.
Where in Sumbawa Can You See Whale Sharks?
The best place to see the whale shark in Sumbawa is Saleh Bay (Teluk Saleh), located in the northern part of Sumbawa Island. This vast, protected inlet is known for its calm waters and healthy marine ecosystem, making it an ideal feeding ground for whale sharks.
In particular, the whale sharks in Saleh Bay are drawn to “bagan”, traditional fishing platforms used by local fishermen. The lights from these platforms attract small fish and plankton—essentially a buffet for whale sharks.
It’s not uncommon to see multiple whale sharks circling beneath the bagan in the early morning hours.
How to Get to Saleh Bay, Sumbawa
There are several ways to reach the whale shark in Sumbawa depending on where you’re starting:
🛥 From Lombok:
Many travelers begin their journey in Lombok and take a boat across to Sumbawa. You can either:
- Join an organized day tour or overnight trip with a local operator.
- Take a ferry from East Lombok (Kayangan Port) to Poto Tano in West Sumbawa, then drive or join a transfer to Saleh Bay.
🛫 From Bali or Jakarta:
Fly to Sumbawa Besar Airport (SWQ), then continue by land for about 2–3 hours to reach the coastline of Saleh Bay.
Regardless of your starting point, most tours begin early in the morning—some even as early as 4:00 AM—to catch the whale sharks during their feeding hours.
What to Expect During the Experience
Swimming with a whale shark in Sumbawa is different from heavily commercialized tours. It’s calmer, more respectful, and surprisingly personal.
Here’s what a typical trip looks like:
- You depart at dawn to head toward the fishing platforms.
- Fishermen give the signal when whale sharks are spotted.
- You hop into the water (with a mask and snorkel) and gently swim alongside the creatures.
- The encounter may last anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour, depending on weather and behavior.
Because the whale sharks come close to the surface, you don’t need to be a certified diver—snorkeling is enough.
Many travelers describe the experience as humbling, even emotional. There’s something surreal about floating just meters away from a creature the size of a bus—calm, curious, and completely unbothered by your presence.
When Is the Best Time to See Whale Sharks in Sumbawa?
The good news? Whale sharks in Sumbawa are present year-round.
However, the best months for reliable sightings and good weather are between May and October, during the dry season. These months offer calm seas and better visibility, making the experience even more enjoyable.
Ethical Travel Tips: How to Protect the Whale Sharks
While the encounter is magical, it’s essential to prioritize the safety and well-being of the animals. As interest in the whale shark in Sumbawa grows, travelers must act responsibly.
✅ Do:
- Follow your guide’s instructions at all times.
- Stay at least 3 meters away from the whale sharks.
- Enter the water calmly—no splashing or chasing.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen or skip it altogether.
❌ Don’t:
- Touch or ride the whale sharks.
- Use flash photography.
- Feed the sharks (leave that to the natural flow of the ecosystem).
- Litter or damage the marine environment.
By practicing ethical tourism, you help preserve this special experience for future generations—and keep the whale sharks safe in their natural habitat.
More Than Just Whale Sharks: Exploring Sumbawa
If you’re traveling all the way to Sumbawa, why not stay a little longer?
The island is still largely untouched by mass tourism and offers raw beauty in every direction. Consider adding the following to your trip:
🏞 Moyo Island
A hidden paradise known for waterfalls, luxury eco-resorts, and diving. Just off the coast of Sumbawa Besar.
🌋 Mount Tambora
The site of the largest volcanic eruption in recorded history. A trek up Mount Tambora is both challenging and rewarding, offering stunning views over Sumbawa.
🏝 Lakey Peak
A surfer’s paradise located in Dompu, with some of the best waves in Indonesia.
Exploring these destinations can turn your whale shark encounter into a full-blown adventure across one of Indonesia’s most underrated islands.
Why the Whale Shark in Sumbawa Should Be on Your Bucket List
The experience of swimming with a whale shark in Sumbawa goes beyond just a cool Instagram photo. It’s a reminder of how vast and wild our planet still is—and how important it is to protect that wildness.
Far from the crowds and tourist traps, Sumbawa offers one of the most authentic, respectful, and unforgettable wildlife encounters you can have in Southeast Asia.
If you’re seeking something different—something meaningful—add Sumbawa to your travel plans. The whale sharks are waiting.