Bangka Island (North Sulawesi)

Bangka Island (North Sulawesi) is a lodging, located at Likupang, Sulawesi Utara, Indonesia

Bangka Island is a small island located off of the northeastern tip of Sulawesi, Indonesia. Bangka is known for its unspoiled beaches and dive tourism. It belongs administratively to the district of East Likupang in the North Minahasa regency, North Sulawesi province. The island has three main coastal villages: Lihunu, Kahuku and Libas. Controversy exists over the local government’s decision to grant mining exploration permits for Bangka to a Chinese company, which would then plan to mine iron ore and build a refining smelter.GeographyBangka is located in the western Pacific Ocean, between the Celebes Sea (Indonesian: Laut Sulawesi) to the west and the Molucca Sea to the east. Bangka is southwest of Biaro Island, separated by the Bangka Passage. Just west of Bangka are the islands of Kinabohutan, Talisei, Tindila and Gangga.Bangka has an area of 4,778 hectares. Geographical faces of the island include forests, hills, coconut plantations, rocky outcrops, mangroves and pristine beaches.The largest village is Lihunu, followed by Kahuku and Libas.EconomyLocal commerce involves selling fish and agricultural products such as coconuts, copra, cloves, maize and vegetables. Some locals are also employed by the island’s five eco-tourism ventures, which specialize in diving and snorkeling. Tourism: Bangka's popularity as international tourism destination has increased since its first dive resort was opened in 1987. Most of the sandy beaches and coral reefs attractive to tourists are located at the southwestern and southern parts of the island. The northern coastline is rockier and its waters contain more seagrass than spectacular coral.