Ngurtafur Beach (aka Snake Beach) is in Woha Island, South Maluku Regency, sitting nearby Kei Kecil island. Ngurtafur is aptly named Snake Beach or Snake Island because of its slithery, reptilian shape. The island features an incredible protruding sandbar stretching 1.2 kilometers and 7 meters in width into the sea from Woha Island, making Ngurtafur one of Kei archipelago’s most unique attractions. You will feel like you are strolling on the water that is as clear as a bottle of Bombay Gin, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Some tourists felt like Moses separating the two seas and walking in the middle of it!
The World Wildlife Fund also mentions Ngurtafur Beach as a breeding spot for the leatherback sea turtle, and a resting place for migratory seabirds enjoying the calm waters. When you go snorkeling at Ngurtafur island, you can find rare leatherback turtles known as “Penyu Belimbing” or Tabob locally. This animal is a protected turtle species. And if you are lucky, you might spot rare Australian Pelican birds at Ngurtafur Beach during migration from their homes in Australia and Papua New Guinea in May.
The best time to visit Ngurtafur Beach is from April to May and October to December. During this time, the weather is phenomenal, and the waves are calm, making it optimal for any water activities. The best way to reach this island, jump on a private boat with Islander to make sure you discover all of Ngurtafur island’s exotic scenery.
