# Rubiah Island, Sabang At the westernmost tip of the Indonesian archipelago, where Indonesia begins, lies a sparkling jewel hidden beneath the crystal-clear blue waters. This is a small, uninhabited island located directly across from Iboih Beach in Sabang, on Pulau Weh. Dubbed the "paradise of marine gardens," Rubiah Island is a must-visit destination for anyone yearning for serenity and underwater beauty. It boasts spectacular underwater scenery, along with a unique historical touch. Its strategic location, directly across from the popular Iboih Beach, makes it a must-visit destination for tourists visiting Sabang. To that end, travel agents offer a service called the [Medan tour package](https://switourmedan.com/) overland tour direct from Medan to Sabang Tour and Aceh, which will help anyone interested in exploring Sabang's beauty. The Main Attraction of Rubiah Island: A Stunning Marine Garden The true wonder of Rubiah Island in Sabang lies beneath the surface. Once you dip your face in the water, a completely different world will greet you. This is the true selling point of the Sabang Tour Package, making it a popular choice. Some tangible information about tourism in Sabang City can be found here: Crystal-Clear Water: The water visibility around Rubiah Island is exceptional, often reaching over 15 meters. This allows you to see the beauty of the coral reefs and marine life very clearly, even without having to dive very deep. Marine Biodiversity: Rubiah Island is home to thousands of colorful tropical fish species. You'll easily spot clownfish (Nemo) hiding in anemones, graceful lionfish, moray eels peeking out from coral crevices, and schools of agile sergeant fish. If you're lucky, you might even encounter turtles swimming leisurely. Healthy Coral Reefs: This area is a marine conservation area, so the coral reefs are relatively well-preserved. Various types of coral, both hard and soft, form a beautiful underwater garden and serve as a vital habitat for the marine ecosystem. Hidden Historical Traces Besides its natural beauty, Rubiah Island holds an interesting historical side. From the Dutch colonial period until the 1960s, this island served as Indonesia's first Hajj quarantine center. Prospective pilgrims from across the archipelago gathered here for health checks before departing for the Holy Land by ship. To this day, you can still find remnants of these historical relics, such as the foundations of dormitory buildings, former docks, and ancient wells, which bear silent witness to the spiritual journey of thousands of pilgrims in the past. Exploring the island's interior is like taking us back in time. **Other Tour Package:** [Bukit Lawang Jungle Trekking](https://switourmedan.com/bukit-lawang-jungle-trekking/) Sabang's Underwater Paradise Iboih Beach, Sabang Activities to Do on Rubiah Island Snorkeling: This is the most popular activity. You can rent complete snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, and fins) at Iboih Beach at an affordable price before crossing. Diving: For licensed divers, there are several exciting dive spots around Rubiah Island that offer deeper diving experiences to explore the underwater beauty. Glass Bottom Boat: If you don't want to get wet, renting a glass-bottom boat is a great option. You can enjoy the views of the marine park from the boat. Relaxing on the Beach: The island has several quiet white-sand beaches, perfect for relaxing, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the crashing waves and the view of Iboih Beach in the distance. Enjoying Local Cuisine: There are several simple food stalls on the island serving fresh seafood, such as grilled fish, and refreshing young coconuts. **Other Tour Package:** [Mount Sibayak Sunrise Hike](https://switourmedan.com/mount-sibayak-hiking-medan/) How to Get to Rubiah Island, Sabang Traveling to Rubiah Island is very easy: From Banda Aceh to Sabang (Pulau Weh): Take a fast ferry (about 45 minutes) or a slow ferry (about 2 hours) from Ulee Lheue Port in Banda Aceh to Balohan Port in Sabang. From Balohan Port to Iboih Beach: Upon arrival in Sabang, you can rent a car or motorcycle to get to Iboih Beach. The land journey takes about 40-60 minutes and offers beautiful natural scenery. From Iboih Beach to Rubiah Island: From the Iboih Beach pier, you simply need to rent a motorboat or speedboat to cross. The trip is very short, only about 5-10 minutes. Usually, the boat rental price includes a round-trip fare. Visiting Tips Best Time: The best time to visit is during the dry season (around April to September) when the weather is sunny and the sea tends to be calmer. Bring Cash: Facilities on Rubiah Island are still limited, so be sure to bring enough cash. Keep Clean and Sustainable: This is paramount. Do not step on or touch the coral reefs, and do not litter. Take your trash back with you to keep this paradise sustainable. Use Eco-Friendly Sunscreen: To protect your skin and the marine ecosystem. Rubiah Island is more than just a tourist destination, but a complete package offering world-class underwater beauty, soul-soothing tranquility, and enriching historical traces. If you're looking for a hidden slice of paradise in the far west of Indonesia, Rubiah Island is the answer. To make it easier for you to access tourist attractions in Banda Aceh and Sabang, you can join your travel agent's Aceh Sabang Tour Package program.