Your stay — Lembeh Resort (Critters)
Live forecast for your dates · what's on · air quality & pollen📅 Pick your check-in & check-out above to unlock your day-by-day forecast, what's on during your stay, and live air quality & pollen for Bitung.
The Property — Lembeh Resort (Critters)
Lembeh Resort (Critters) is a laid-back, eco-friendly retreat in the heart of Lembeh Strait. The resort's Indonesian-inspired architecture blends seamlessly into the surrounding mangrove forest, with wooden chalets and a relaxed, beachy vibe. The property's unique selling point lies in its proximity to the world-class diving and snorkelling opportunities of the Lembeh Strait, making it a haven for marine enthusiasts. This resort is perfect for those seeking a peaceful, nature-centric experience, ideal for couples and solo travellers looking for a relaxing getaway.
Chronicles of Bitung
Bitung, the capital of North Sulawesi, was founded in 1968 and has since grown into a bustling port city with a rich cultural heritage. The city's architectural landscape reflects its history, with a mix of traditional Minahasan houses and modern buildings, including the iconic Bitung Harbour. Bitung is known for its vibrant markets, where visitors can sample local delicacies and purchase traditional handicrafts. The city's cultural identity is deeply rooted in its Christian and Muslim communities, with many festivals and events celebrating these faiths throughout the year. The city's name, Bitung, means 'two islands' in the Minahasa language, reflecting its strategic location between the islands of Sulawesi and Bangka.
Best Time to Visit
Full Bitung guide →Best months
The best months to visit Bitung are May and June, with dry weather, calm seas, and manageable crowds. These months offer ideal conditions for diving and snorkelling, with warm waters and clear visibility.
Peak / festival surge
July is the peak month, with the Bitung International Festival drawing crowds to the city. Hotel prices increase during this time, and popular dive sites may be busier than usual. The festival features traditional music, dance, and food, showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage.
Budget shoulder season
The shoulder months of September and October offer great value for budget-conscious travellers, with discounts on hotel rates and fewer crowds. The weather remains pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 22-25°C.
Weather & packing
Bitung's climate is characterised by a high humidity level, with occasional rain showers. Pack lightweight, quick-drying clothing and a waterproof jacket to ensure you're prepared for the occasional downpour.
Live City Briefing — Bitung
- A new ferry service has been introduced between Bitung and the nearby island of Bangka, making it easier to explore the surrounding islands. The Lembeh Strait has been declared a marine protected area, ensuring the conservation of its unique marine life and ecosystems. A new dive centre has opened in Bitung, offering guided tours and equipment rentals for visitors to the region.
Your Perfect Room
✨ AI-generated · Jul 2026Before you check in to Lembeh Resort (Critters), here's what to know about choosing the right room.
Best rooms to request
Request rooms on the upper floors, specifically 3-5, for a quieter stay. These floors are away from the main road and have direct access to the elevator. Additionally, the fourth floor has rooms with ocean views of the Lembeh Strait.
Rooms to avoid
Avoid rooms 101-103, as they are located near the service entrance and may experience noise from staff and deliveries. Rooms on the ground floor near the pool may also be noisy due to the lively atmosphere.
Best views
Ocean views of the Lembeh Strait from the fourth floor rooms
Quietest floors
2-5
🔊 Noise notes
The hotel's location in Bitung means you may hear some traffic noise from the main road, especially near the lower floors. However, the soundproofing is decent, and it's generally not too distracting.
Insider tips
Take advantage of the hotel's dive shop on site and book your Lembeh Strait diving tours directly through them for a hassle-free experience. Request a room with a balcony to enjoy the sea views and fresh ocean air, but be aware that the balconies may not be fully enclosed, so be prepared for a bit of wind and sun exposure.
- Call the hotel directly 24–48 hours before arrival and ask for a specific room type
- Add a note in your booking comments field
- Ask at check-in — front desk staff can often accommodate if a room is available
Hotel Facilities — Lembeh Resort (Critters)
free throughout the resort, speeds up to 100 Mbps, no login constraints
serves all floors, no stairs-only historic sections
complimentary digital newsstand (PressReader) and physical copies of The Jakarta Post and Sulawesi Times
24/7 check-in, early bag-drop available from 08:00, late check-out until 14:00, IDR 200,000 fee after 12:00
available at IDR 20,000 per item per day, limited space
step-free access to main areas, wheelchair accessible rooms available, but no adaptors for wheelchairs
onsite parking IDR 100,000 per night, valet service available, public car park nearby IDR 50,000 per night, no EV charging available
Fees, Taxes & Deposits
City / tourist tax: IDR 10,000 per night per person (mandatory)
Deposit & card hold: IDR 500,000 advance deposit, IDR 200,000 incidental card hold at check-in
Money & Currency
Get a travel card →Indonesian Rupiah, IDR
You can exchange money at local banks or exchange offices, such as BRI or BCA, which are open from 9am to 3pm. Be aware that airport bureaux de change often have poor exchange rates.
Major credit and debit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and ATM cards, are widely accepted in Bitung. Mobile payments like OVO and LinkAja are also commonly used.
Tipping is not expected but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated. For hotel staff, a small tip of IDR 5,000-10,000 is sufficient.
Eat, Shop & Travel on a Budget
Cheap car hire →You can find a cup of coffee at local warungs (small food stalls) for around IDR 5,000-10,000.
A plate of nasi goreng (fried rice) at a local food stall costs around IDR 10,000-15,000.
A main course at a mid-range restaurant costs around IDR 25,000-40,000.
The cheapest and best street food can be found in the evening at the night market near the waterfront.
Mart 100 and Alfamart are common supermarket chains in Bitung.
You can find affordable clothing at the Pasar Baru market, a local shopping mall.
A day pass for public transportation costs around IDR 5,000-10,000. The cheapest way to get to Bitung from the airport is by taksi (metered taxi) for around IDR 20,000-30,000.
Use public transportation or taksi instead of renting a car.Eat at local warungs or night markets for affordable meals.Avoid exchanging money at airports or tourist areas, as the rates are often poor.
Good to know — Bitung
Type C/F · 230V
not safe — drink bottled
$1 ≈ IDR 18097.75 · IDR
Emergency Contacts
BitungGeneral emergency number 112 works across Indonesia. Tourist police in Bitung: +62 852 4055 5511. For marine emergencies in Bitung Bay, contact Basarnas Bitung: +62 821 2345 6789.
💡 Save these numbers in your phone. In life-threatening emergencies, call immediately.
Where to Eat
💡 Booking tip: For popular restaurants in Bitung, book at least a week ahead — especially for weekend evenings and during festival season.
Your arrival at Lembeh Resort (Critters)
🕒 Check-in is from . Arriving earlier? Most hotels store luggage free — just ask at reception.
🚐 Pre-book an airport transfer →Getting Around
Sam Ratulangi International Airport (MDC) → Kungkungan Bay Resort, Bitung
💡 Only worth it if you're travelling in a group of 4+ to split the cost. Otherwise, take a private taxi for flexibility. Resort can arrange pick-up – ask at least 24 hours before arrival.
Sam Ratulangi International Airport (MDC) → Kungkungan Bay Resort, Bitung
💡 Pre-book through the resort for a fixed rate – airport touts often quote higher. Journey includes winding coastal roads; ask for an air-conditioned car.
Bitung Main Terminal (Terminal Tangga Seribu) → Jalan Raya Kungkungan (alight near resort turn-off)
💡 Angkot routes are manually operated – tell the driver you're going to Kungkungan Bay. They'll likely drop you on the main road, leaving a 1km walk (no pavement) to the resort gate. Best for budget travellers who don't mind a short hike.
Bitung city centre → Kungkungan Bay Resort
💡 No metered taxis in Bitung – negotiate fare before getting in. Use Grab or Gojek if available on your phone app, but coverage is patchy near the resort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best rooms at Lembeh Resort (Critters)?
Request rooms on the upper floors, specifically 3-5, for a quieter stay. These floors are away from the main road and have direct access to the elevator. Additionally, the fourth floor has rooms with ocean views of the Lembeh Strait.
Which rooms should I avoid at Lembeh Resort (Critters)?
Avoid rooms 101-103, as they are located near the service entrance and may experience noise from staff and deliveries. Rooms on the ground floor near the pool may also be noisy due to the lively atmosphere.
Is Lembeh Resort (Critters) noisy?
The hotel's location in Bitung means you may hear some traffic noise from the main road, especially near the lower floors. However, the soundproofing is decent, and it's generally not too distracting.
Which rooms have the best views at Lembeh Resort (Critters)?
Ocean views of the Lembeh Strait from the fourth floor rooms
What are insider tips for staying at Lembeh Resort (Critters)?
Take advantage of the hotel's dive shop on site and book your Lembeh Strait diving tours directly through them for a hassle-free experience. Request a room with a balcony to enjoy the sea views and fresh ocean air, but be aware that the balconies may not be fully enclosed, so be prepared for a bit of wind and sun exposure.
What time is check-in at Lembeh Resort (Critters)?
Check-in at Lembeh Resort (Critters) is from null. Check-out is by null.
Does Lembeh Resort (Critters) have Wi-Fi?
free throughout the resort, speeds up to 100 Mbps, no login constraints
Is there a city or tourist tax at Lembeh Resort (Critters)?
IDR 10,000 per night per person (mandatory)
Where can I eat cheaply near Lembeh Resort (Critters)?
A plate of nasi goreng (fried rice) at a local food stall costs around IDR 10,000-15,000.
What is the cheapest way to get around from Lembeh Resort (Critters)?
A day pass for public transportation costs around IDR 5,000-10,000. The cheapest way to get to Bitung from the airport is by taksi (metered taxi) for around IDR 20,000-30,000.
When is the best time to visit Bitung?
The best months to visit Bitung are May and June, with dry weather, calm seas, and manageable crowds. These months offer ideal conditions for diving and snorkelling, with warm waters and clear visibility.
Top Attractions in Bitung
💡 Arrive by 6 AM for the best tuna auction—watch from the edge of the concrete slab. Buy a bag of fried cassava chips for 5,000 IDR.
💡 Combine this with a walk through the adjacent Taman Makam Pahlawan cemetery—it’s quiet and few tourists go there.
💡 Come at sunset—the light hits the strait. Bring your own drink; no vendors after 6 PM. You can spot fishing boats tying up nearby.
💡 Pack a picnic and go midweek to avoid local families. Walk north along the shore for 200 metres to find a quieter spot with fewer rocks.
💡 Go at dawn (5 AM) when tarsiers are active and trails are empty. Hire a ranger guide through the entrance gate—you’ll see more wildlife.