The Togian Islands are a remote archipelago scattered across the Tomini Bay, off the northern arm of Sulawesi. Largely bypassed by mainstream tourism, they offer some of the best diving in Indonesia — rich coral reefs, abundant marine life, and clear water without the crowds. The islands are also one of the last refuges in Indonesia for the saltwater crocodile and the enormous coconut crab.
Several small, isolated beach resorts dot the islands, with hammocks, simple food, and little else to distract you. It is a destination for slowing down rather than sightseeing. The diving and snorkelling are the draw, and they are genuinely exceptional.
Getting here requires effort. The islands are reached by ferry — either from Ampana in the south, which runs every few days and takes a couple of hours with stops, or from Gorontalo in the north, roughly once a week, with a journey of around twelve hours. Both schedules are erratic and worth checking in advance: ask in Manado before heading to Gorontalo, and ask locally before setting out for Ampana. Cabins are available on the longer Gorontalo ferry for a premium — worth it if you can fill the four berths. A meal of rice and egg is nominally included, served below deck near the engine room. Chartering a speedboat is possible but expensive.
Note that the overland route to Ampana passes through the Poso area, which has experienced religious conflict in recent years. Check current conditions before travelling that way.