The archipelago known as the Lease Islands includes Pulau Haruku, and although it is the closest to Ambon, it is by far the least equipped for tourists with no accommodation, but beautiful scenery.
There is an extremely small ruined fort in the main town, Pelau, which was originally erected by the Dutch in 1656 and is the most interesting site on the island. There is no accommodation so if you are looking to stay on the island then you must arrange to lodge with a local family.
There is a fabulous beach close to Hulaliu village at the far eastern part of the only road on Haruku, which is actually one of the best in the archipelago. There is ample opportunity to swim from the beach and the sand is soft and clean. The island itself is made from a coral reef that grew out from the sea and formed the Lease Islands.
There is little to do and Haruku is best explored on a daytrip from the larger sister island of Sarapua. Food is limited to daily market stalls as there are no restaurants and the only way to get around is on local bemos and ojeks.
Getting There & Away
Jakarta is home to the nearest international airport and there are flights from there to Ambon that take 3 hours. You can either go to Sarapua Island from Ambon on a ferry (2 hours) and from there make your way to Haruku or you can go straight from Ambon to Haruku on a chartered speedboat.