Cinta Island in Gorontalo, a heart-shaped romantic destination surrounded by beautiful eco-resorts and full of stories, offers a Maldivian-style holiday experience amidst the beauty of Tomini Bay.
In the middle of Tomini Bay, Boalemo Regency, Gorontalo, there is a unique heart-shaped island known as Cinta Island. The island, often dubbed the “Maldives of Indonesia,” lures visitors with its eco-friendly eco-resorts and stunning natural scenery.
Apart from being a popular tourist destination, Cinta Island holds a tragic love story from the colonial era which makes it even more interesting.
The Romantic Legend Behind Cinta Island
Cinta Island is not only interesting because of its heart-shaped shape, but also because of the forbidden love story attached to its history.
It is said that during the Dutch colonial era, a Gorontalo prince fell in love with a princess from the Netherlands.
Although their relationship was hampered by cultural differences and war, they still tried to meet on this island secretly.
Until now, the romantic nuances of their love story seem to live on Cinta Island, attracting couples from all over the world to feel the vibrations of love in the same place.
How to Get to Cinta Island Gorontalo
Cinta Island is located in Tomini Bay, Gorontalo, and can be reached through several stages of travel:
1. Flights to Gorontalo
Start your journey with a flight to Jalaluddin Airport in Gorontalo. This airport serves flights from various major cities in Indonesia.
2. Overland Journey to Boalemo Regency
From the airport, continue the land journey for about two hours to Boalemo Regency, where Cinta Island is located. Tourists usually use cars or shuttle services from the accommodation.
3. Crossing to Cinta Island
From Boalemo, the journey continues by boat for about 25 minutes to Cinta Island. Some accommodation packages offer free transportation from the port to the island, making the trip more practical and economical.
Various Interesting Activities on Cinta Island
Cinta Island offers a variety of activities that pamper tourists, from nature exploration to water adventures. Here are some activities that can be enjoyed:
1. Snorkeling in Tomini Bay
The waters of Tomini Bay are famous for their underwater beauty. With a depth of only 2-3 meters, tourists can easily see coral reefs and colorful tropical fish without having to dive too deep. This snorkeling spot is perfect for beginners who want to explore the sea safely.
2. Trekking Around the Forest
Around Cinta Island there is a lush forest. For adventure lovers, trekking in this forest can be an interesting choice. In addition to enjoying the fresh air and natural beauty, visitors can witness local flora and fauna that are still natural.
3. Enjoy the Sunset and Starry Night
Cinta Island is the perfect place to enjoy a romantic sunset. As dusk falls, the sky turns a reddish orange color that reflects on the surface of the sea. At night, stars are scattered across the sky, creating a magical and peaceful night atmosphere.
4. Ocean Exploration by Boat
Visitors can go around Cinta Island by boat to enjoy the view from a different perspective. The view of the calm blue sea and the heart-shaped island will make this experience even more memorable.
5. Enjoy the atmosphere from the cottage terrace
Each cottage has a terrace facing the sea, providing a peaceful atmosphere to relax. Spending time on the terrace with a wide sea view, gentle breeze, and crashing waves can be a relaxing holiday experience.
Facilities and Accommodation on Cinta Island
Cinta Island offers 15 heart-shaped cottages located on the water, blending in with the surrounding nature.
Designed as an eco-resort, the cottages are made from natural materials such as wood and thatched roofs, maintaining balance with the surrounding environment. There are three types of cottages to choose from:
- One Bedroom Cottage (92 m²): Ideal for couples who want to enjoy a romantic atmosphere.
- Two Bedroom Cottage (156 m²): Suitable for small families or friends who want to vacation together.
- Three Bedroom Cottage (212 m²): Offers more space, complete with a living room and terrace with sea views.
The rental price for a cottage on Cinta Island ranges from IDR 3,000,000 to IDR 5,000,000 per night, which includes three meals and transportation from Tilamuta harbor.
Tips and Preparation Before Visiting
1. Book Accommodation Well in Advance
Given the popularity of Cinta Island, be sure to book your cottage early to avoid missing out.
2. Prepare a Camera or Drone
Cinta Island’s heart shape is the most beautiful seen from above. If possible, bring a drone to capture this unique view from above.
3. Pay attention to the season and weather
Visit Cinta Island in the dry season to get the best views with sunny weather. The rainy season can make access to the island more difficult and views cloudier.
4. Respect Nature and the Environment
Cinta Island is a conservation area, so make sure you keep it clean by not littering and following local rules.
5. The Beauty of the Sea of Cinta Island
Cinta Island is not only attractive with its shape, but also with the beauty of its sea. The waters around the island are very clear, allowing tourists to enjoy the underwater life just by snorkeling.
The coral reefs that are still preserved and the variety of tropical fish add to the appeal of Cinta Island as a paradise for snorkeling and diving lovers.
Cinta Island in Gorontalo is a tourist destination that combines natural beauty and a deep romantic feel.
From heart-shaped cottages floating on the sea to legendary love stories, Cinta Island is the ideal place to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy a romantic moment with your partner.
With its extraordinary natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, Samalona Island is a popular destination for those looking for a different kind of holiday in Indonesia.
If you are looking for a romantic getaway full of beauty and natural wonders, Gorontalo’s Cinta Island could be the perfect choice.