The northernmost resort of Salang is located in a secluded bay far from other resorts. It's the last stop for boats leaving from the mainland, so it's easy to get here without having to change to a water taxi.

Salang is mostly frequented by backpackers, who prefer the cheaper cottages here to the resorts in the south of the island. But Salang is also a popular base for divers due to its proximity to Coral Island, or Pulau Tulai.

Salang beach

The smaller bay will offer travellers a 700-metre long sandy beach with golden sand and a gradual entry into the sea. The sea here is clear and calm. The northern part also contains small rocky breakwaters that protect the boats of local fishermen during the monsoon season.

The bay is divided in the middle by a larger concrete jetty for boats from the mainland.

Take a snorkel and go into the water to watch the bustle of the underwater world. If the one off shore isn't busy enough for you, supplement your gear with fins and a life jacket and swim a little further to the islet of Pulau Soyak.

This small islet offers countless live corals along its perimeter, a haven for colourful fish, sea urchins and other aquatic creatures.

Things to do in Salang

Salang is a very lively resort. With an international mix of backpackers, listen to other travellers' stories over a beer or two, marvel at the fire show at night and just relax on the beach during the day.

If you opt for a longer jungle trip, head south. After about 40 minutes of walking along the trail, you'll arrive at Monkey Bay.

If you continue another hour further south, you will arrive at another resort, Air Batang ABC.