Selayar Island

Selayar Island is the principal island of the Selayar Islands chain in South Sulawesi province, Indonesia, with a resident population concentrated in coastal towns and a local economy based on fishing, small-scale agriculture and tourism. The island is part of Selayar Regency and serves as the archipelago’s administrative centre.

Beaches, coral reefs and dive sites around the island attract recreational divers and visitors seeking marine life and clear waters. The island also supports local markets, boat traffic and inter-island ferry services connecting to mainland Sulawesi.

Historically the islands have been linked to regional sultanates and maritime trade networks, and today they combine traditional livelihoods with growing tourism focused on diving and coastal recreation. Local towns provide ferry and supply hubs for visitors and residents.

Geographically the island lies off the southern coast of Sulawesi and is accessible by boat and ferry from mainland Sulawesi ports.

• Diving and reefs: The island is known for coral reefs, diving sites and clear coastal waters that attract divers and small-scale tourism.

What to See #

• Benteng: Benteng is the main town and administrative centre on the island, containing the primary ferry and transport links and local markets.