Sula Islands

The Sula Islands are an archipelago in eastern Indonesia, administered within North Maluku province. The group’s principal islands are Taliabu, Mangole and Sulabesi.

The islands have tropical coastlines, coral reefs and local fishing communities rather than extensive tourist infrastructure. Marine environments offer potential for diving and snorkelling around reef areas and sheltered bays.

The islands have long been inhabited by Austronesian-speaking communities and have been part of regional trade networks in eastern Indonesia. They are administered as part of Indonesia’s island and regency system.

The Sula Islands lie in eastern Indonesia between the large island of Sulawesi to the west and the Maluku Islands to the east, in the Molucca Sea region.

• Main islands: The archipelago comprises several main islands, commonly listed as Taliabu, Mangole and Sulabesi, and forms a regency within Indonesia.

What to See#

• Taliabu: Taliabu - the westernmost of the main islands, mountainous in the interior and home to several coastal settlements.
• Mangole: Mangole - the central island with hilly interior terrain and local villages along the coast.
• Sulabesi: Sulabesi - the eastern island of the group, featuring coastal plains and reef-lined shores.

Reachable by small inter-island boats from larger Maluku ports such as Ternate or Ambon; flights to the region connect through major Indonesian hubs followed by boat or local air services.

• Inter-island boat services are irregular; hire a local skiff for flexible travel between islands rather than relying on scheduled ferries.
• Respect local customs and ask before photographing villages - Sula Islands have small, close-knit communities.