Rammang-Rammang (45 km north) is one of the most dramatic landscapes in Sulawesi: a field of tall karst limestone towers rising from flat paddy fields, laced with mangrove rivers navigable by small wooden boat. Hire a driver from Makassar, take a boat through the karst channels, and walk to the small village at the centre. Best in the dry season but accessible year-round.
Spermonde Archipelago — a scatter of small islands 30 to 60 minutes by boat from Makassar — offers white sand, clear water, and snorkelling over coral reefs. The islands closest to the city are popular and can be crowded on weekends; go further out for a quieter experience. Boats leave from various points along the coast; arrange through a guesthouse or directly at the jetty. Dry season (April–October) only — the seas in the wet season are rough enough to make the crossing unpleasant.
Malino (80 km east) is a cool highland town at around 1000 metres, used as a retreat from the coastal heat since Dutch colonial times. There are waterfalls, tea plantations, and forested hills. The drive up is pleasant and the temperature drop on arrival is welcome. A comfortable day trip with your own transport.
Sungguminasa and Gowa (10 km south) is where the old Gowa Sultanate, once the most powerful kingdom in eastern Indonesia, had its centre. The Balla Lompoa (Great House) is a reconstructed royal palace with a museum of regalia and artefacts. The Bantimurung waterfall and butterfly park is nearby — touristy but worth it if you have children in tow or a genuine interest in entomology.