Adara Reef, Atauro
Adara, Ataúro
A fishing village on the northwest coast of Atauro Island, where the shore drops into steep coral reef walls. Snorkeling reveals colorful corals, sea turtles and large schools of reef fish.
Adara sits at the island’s northwest corner. Villagers paddle dugout canoes over the coral reef to fish, and parts of the sea are protected by the community under the traditional rule known as “Tara Bandu.” The reef wall drops quickly from the shallows into deep water. Snorkelers can see soft and hard corals, nudibranchs, giant clams and sea turtles, and divers may also encounter large schools of fish. It is about 30 minutes by boat from Beloi, or a few hours’ walk along the coastal path, passing villages and eucalyptus groves. The village has very few facilities, so bring your own drinking water and snorkel gear, and pay a small conservation fee to the community.
Opening hours
Daytime
Nearby sights
- Atauro Island
- Beloi Beach
- Mount Manucoco
- Vila Maumeta & Boneca de Ataúro
- Makili
- Akrema Beach
- Whale & Dolphin Watching in Ombai-Wetar Strait