Sabang Airport

Things To Do In Sabang

Pulau Weh is best known for clear waters, coral reefs, and a relaxed atmosphere. While Sabang is the main town, most of the best activities are dotted around the rest of the island. Here are the best things to see and do from Sabang.

Rough, wild trees with exposed roots, and a small, wild beach overlooking clear emerald shallow water at Rubiah Island, Aceh.
The wild coastline of Rubiah Island, a short boat ride from Iboih Beach, where you can snorkel © fitri agung | CC BY 2.0.

Explore the Underwater World

Pulau Weh is legendary among divers for its lack of crowds and pristine reefs.

Scuba Diving

The currents here can be strong, bringing in nutrients that attract huge schools of fish, rays, and sharks.

  • Top Dive Sites: Sophie Rickmers Wreck (a WWII German cargo ship at 55m—for advanced tech divers only), Batee Tokong (huge moray eels and sharks), and The Canyon.
  • Recommended Operators (2026):
  • Cost: Expect to pay roughly IDR 450,000-500,000 (£23–£26) per fun dive (gear included).

Snorkeling at Rubiah Island

You don’t need a tank to see the magic. Rubiah Island is just a 5-minute boat ride from Iboih Beach.

  • The Experience: You can literally walk off the beach into an aquarium. The “Sea Garden” is famous for thousands of colorful reef fish that will swim right up to your mask.
  • How to do it: Rent a glass-bottom boat or standard taxi boat from Iboih beach (~IDR 150,000–200,000 return for the whole boat). Snorkel gear can be rented on the island for ~IDR 50,000.

Land Adventures & Sightseeing

Kilometer Zero Monument (Tugu Nol Kilometer)

This monument marks the absolute westernmost point of Indonesia.

  • The Vibe: It’s a rite of passage for domestic tourists. You get a certificate to prove you’ve been to the “edge” of Indonesia.
  • 2026 Status Check: Note: The monument was temporarily closed in May 2025 due to safety concerns with the structure. While repairs were underway, access to the tower structure itself may be restricted. The area around the monument typically remains accessible for photos. Check with your hotel for the current status before making the journey.
  • Best Time: Go at sunset for incredible views over the Andaman Sea. Beware of the monkeys – they can be very aggressive!

Gua Sarang (Sea Caves)

A stunning hidden gem that looks like a mini Raja Ampat with jagged rock formations rising from turquoise water.

  • Activity: You can hike down the cliff (steep!) to the water’s edge. To actually enter the caves, you must hire a local boatman at the bottom.
  • Entrance Fee: ~IDR 5,000 entry + ~IDR 200,000–250,000 per boat to enter the caves.

Jaboi Volcano (Crater Walk)

This is not a tall mountain climb, but a walk into an active volcanic crater.

  • The Experience: It’s a barren, alien landscape of white rocks and hissing steam vents (fumaroles) smelling of sulfur. It is completely open (no gates) and usually empty.
  • Warning: The ground can be hot and the crust thin in places. Stick to the worn paths.

Pria Laot Waterfall

A refreshing break from the salt water.

  • The Hike: A jungle trek of about 15–20 minutes. You may see monitor lizards or hornbills along the way.
  • The Highlight: The pool at the base of the waterfall is full of Garra Rufa fish (the ones used in fish spas). Take off your shoes, dip your feet in, and get a free natural pedicure!
  • Cost: Parking fee ~IDR 2,000.

Best Beaches to Relax

  • Sumur Tiga Beach: The “Hawaii of Sabang”. Long white sands and coconut trees. This is the best place for lunch (try Freddies Santai for great food and views). The water is choppier here, so it’s better for boarding/swimming than snorkeling.
  • Iboih Beach: The main backpacker hub. The “beach” is mostly concrete steps into the water, but the vibe is lively with cafes and dive shops.
  • Gapang Beach: Quiet, laid back, and sandy. Home to Lumba Lumba diving. Great for a peaceful afternoon reading a book.

Practical Info for 2026

  • Getting Around: There is no Grab/Gojek on the island.
    • Scooter Rental: The best way to see the island. Rates are IDR 80,000-100,000 (£4–£5) per day. Roads are paved but winding and hilly—drive carefully!
    • Becak (Tuk-tuk): Good for short trips. Negotiate the price first.
  • ATMs: Reliable ATMs (BSI, Bank Aceh) are found in Sabang City and Iboih, but they can run out of cash on long weekends. Bring a backup stack of Rupiah.
  • Dress Code: Aceh is a Sharia law province. While swimsuits are fine in the water at tourist beaches (Iboih/Sumur Tiga), you must dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) when driving around or visiting the city/villages.