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It is no secret that Indonesia islands are drop-dead gorgeous. Annually, many tourists flock to visit for calming seas, peaceful beaches, or a thrilling island adventure.
When you think of the Indonesia islands, the most prominent is Bali. But we're letting you in on a secret: there are many more Indonesia islands just as deserving of fame. For Indonesian travel inspiration, start planning when the weather is dry and sunny, generally between May and September; the rainy season runs November to March.
Here are 15 stunning Indonesia islands you’ve got to visit.
1.
Bali – The Representative Island Of Indonesia
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Photo by Cassie Gallegos on Unsplash[/caption]
When we’re talking about Indonesia islands, it’s almost blasphemous to leave out Bali. A popular holiday destination, Bali is the perfect destination for an idyllic getaway. Bali is also one of the more well-known and popular Indonesia islands, and for good reason too. This beautiful island is teeming with world-class resorts. If you’re seeking a respite from the busy pace of life back home, Bali is the place to be.
Bali’s closeness with nature also makes it a lovely place to catch a breather. Especially if you live in a concrete jungle, Bali offers you the chance to explore the real jungle. You can explore lush rainforests, untarnished by man. Besides the jungle, you can also enjoy miles upon miles of picturesque beaches. For more ideas, check out our beaches in Indonesia guide.
In addition, you can find another gem of Mother Nature in Bali in the form of pristine waterfalls. The most popular waterfall in Bali is hands down, the Sekumpul Waterfalls. It's highly raved for its magnificence and beauty.
If you thought a trip to Bali would only please your eyes, think again. Bali isn’t just a visual delight, it is also an enormous gastronomic paradise!
There’s so much good food in Bali that even I’m not sure where to start. Lest you get overwhelmed, here are the top recommendations that you must try when you’re in Bali!
Nasi Goreng
This dish of fried rice may look simple, but looks can be deceiving! Every single grain of rice has been fried to perfection, such that the flavor seeps right to its core. Take a bite and feel stars dancing on your tongue. Yes, it’s really that good.
Lawar
Lawar is a traditional Balinese meat dish made up of minced meat, coconut, garlic, and chili. Sounds alright, doesn’t it? Well, I’ve intentionally left out a crucial ingredient. Blood! Yeap, this dish is definitely not for the faint-hearted. However, if you manage to overcome your initial queasiness, you’ll be rewarded with an amazing dinner experience. Take a bite, and you might just get hooked!
2.
Lombok – Awesome Natural Sceneries
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Photo by David on Unsplash[/caption]
Hands down, Lombok is one of the best Indonesia islands for water sports enthusiasts. Here, you can try your hand at surfing or even snorkeling.
Of course, the highlight of Lombok is definitely the majestic Mount Rinjani. The second highest volcano in Indonesia, Mount Rinjani is spectacular. At its peak, you are greeted by the sight of the giant crater filled with calm, pristine waters. For those with a streak of adventure, you can book guided camping tours to Mount Rinjani and sleep by the crater rim under a blanket of stars. This is a unique experience for anyone seeking hiking and the outdoors in Indonesia.
When in Lombok, don’t forget to pop by their markets to get a first-hand experience of the local culture. Head to Ampenan to mingle with the locals as they purchase and sell fresh fruits, veggies, and fish. For those seeking to bring a bit of Lombok home, you can get souvenirs at Cakranegara Market.
Located near the coast of Lombok Island, Gili Islands offers beguiling beaches and pristine waters. For more Indonesian travel inspiration, these islands are a must-see.
3.
Gili Islands – Ooh, Heaven Is A Place On Earth
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Photo by Andres on Unsplash[/caption]
Done exploring Lombok Island? Don’t set off for home just yet! Located near the coast of Lombok Island, Gili Islands offers beguiling beaches and pristine waters. Why not extend your beach holiday and get more rest and relaxation here? Gili Islands are essentially comprised of three tiny islands: Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air.
Belinda Carlisle once famously crooned: Heaven is a place on Earth. Don’t take my word for it, but I wouldn’t be surprised if she was referring to the Gili Islands. The embodiment of relaxation, these islands are characterized by sandy white beaches, lined with palm trees. I don’t know about you, but a pretty beach, fringed with palm trees at that too?! Sure screams: Relaxation! to me.
Besides lounging on the beach and soaking up the warmth of the sun, the Gili Islands also offer a host of other exciting activities. At Gili Meno, you can come up close and personal with adorable turtles at Turtle Point. Next, at Gili Trawangan, you can be mystified by the sight of a sunken ship near the Mentigi Beach. Furthermore, you can also enjoy various activities like surfing, fishing, and even partying! For more Indonesian travel inspiration, these islands are a perfect stop after exploring Lombok.
4.
Flores – Explore The Unique Spider Web Fields
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©Photo by andri onet on Unsplash[/caption]
Flores is one of the Indonesia islands that should be on everyone’s bucket list.
One of the uncontested star highlights of Flores would be its unique spider web fields. Before you crinkle your nose in disgust, hear me out! These spider web fields are not to be understood in its literal terms. Rest assured that you will not find icky spiders and sticky webs here. Instead, these fields are actually rice paddies that are arranged in a spider web formation. Each segment of the web is under the care of different families in the area.
Interestingly, the size of each piece of the web is related to the wealth of the family. The wealthier the family, the larger their share of the web! It’s an interesting piece of knowledge that’ll make your sightseeing much more meaningful.
5.
Komodo Island – A Wildlife Heaven
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Photo by Max on Unsplash[/caption]
Komodo Island is famous for being home to the fearsome Komodo dragons – not actual dragons, but large lizards with razor-sharp teeth and venomous bites. Their rugged habitat of rusty-red volcano hills enhances the sense of adventure here.
Beyond the dragons, Komodo Island is a paradise for snorkeling and diving. Surrounded by coral reefs and seagrass beds, its waters offer vibrant marine life, including charming manta rays. For those seeking Indonesian travel inspiration, this island delivers both wildlife and underwater beauty.
If you prefer dry land, the island also connects to hiking and the outdoors in Indonesia, with trails across its dramatic terrain. Be cautious when viewing the dragons, as their venom can be lethal to humans.
6.
Sumba – A Remote And Untainted Paradise
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©Photo by Itchy Feet on Unsplash[/caption]
Located in Eastern Indonesia, Sumba is often overlooked by tourists, thanks to its much more well-known sister city, Bali. However, Sumba definitely has its own set of charms that should not be dismissed.
For starters, Sumba is one of the Indonesia islands that has preserved its natural beauty. Rarely visited, and relatively sparsely populated, Sumba is an unspoiled haven where you can truly bask in the wonders of nature. If you’ve grown weary of the never-ending buzz of the city, Sumba is where you should head.
In Sumba, you can escape from the crowds to finally enjoy some personal space. Being as remote and wild as it is, Sumba is the perfect respite from the chaos of the outside world. Here, your tired eyes will be greeted by the vast expanse of sandy beaches. Wild horses sometimes roam the beaches as well, painting a beautiful picture that’s sure to remain deeply etched in your mind.
Besides vast beaches, Sumba is also home to various mountains and jungles, for the adventurous to explore. Surrounded by the tranquillity of nature with close to little man-made alterations, a trip to Sumba island is akin to a return to the warm embrace of Mother Nature. For those seeking hidden gems in Indonesia, Sumba offers an unspoiled escape that rewards the intrepid traveler.
7.
Lengkuas Island –Pristine And Tranquil
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©Photo by Pavlasek Tomas on Adobe Stock[/caption]
Just off the shore of Tanjung Kelayang beach lies the lovely Lengkuas Island. Blessed with white sandy beaches, surrounded by turquoise waters so clear that you can see the sea bed – Lengkuas Island is the embodiment of perfection. Although small in size (only about a hectare wide), Lengkuas Island is not stingy on beauty.
Lengkuas Island’s star highlight is its old lighthouse. Built in 1882, this historic lighthouse is still functioning today. It has become an icon of the island and a photo spot not to be missed. The white lighthouse coupled with the sandy beach and blue sea makes for a perfect Instagram shot.
Visitors can enter the lighthouse. It has twelve floors, each with a window to enjoy the view. On the top floor, your effort is rewarded by panoramic scenery of the island. For those seeking a peaceful escape, this is one of the hidden gems in Indonesia.
Besides the scenery, Lengkuas Island is great for water activities. The waters are calm, so you can enjoy swimming or diving. The island is home to coral reefs and vibrantly colored fishes. Grab your snorkeling gear to discover Nature’s hidden underwater treasures. After a day in the sun, end with a refreshing drink of coconut juice. I can’t think of a more perfect Indonesian island for a peaceful getaway than Lengkuas Island.
8.
Nusa Penida – Beat The Crowds And Party In Style
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Photo by Timur on Unsplash[/caption]
We’ve established that while charming, Bali has turned into somewhat of a tourist hotspot over the years. If you’re seeking to escape the over-touristy vibes of Bali, why not consider a quick trip out of Bali to Nusa Penida? Boasting natural sceneries and facilities just as impressive as Bali, Nusa Penida can definitely stand its own against Bali. Furthermore, it is located just a short boat ride from Bali, making a day trip definitely feasible.
Nusa Penida is home to various world-class resorts and hotels. Here, you can indulge in a whole range of activities. Choose your pick from a wide range of beach resorts. There, you can soak in the beach atmosphere and enjoy a refreshing cocktail as you lounge. Many of these beach resorts play groovy music as well, so you can experience the fun of partying by the beach! If you’ve been feeling tired and tense, why not pamper yourself with a spa and massage? Many of these resorts do provide such services as well as do ask the concierge!
For those who want a bit more excitement in their lives, fret not. You can take part in all sorts of fun water activities in Nusa Penida. Go for a thrilling spin on a banana boat, snorkel in the pristine waters, whoosh your way down a mega 44-meter slide – You can do all this and more right here at Nusa Penida.
When in Nusa Penida, don’t forget to check out Devil’s Tears. If you’re already in a beach-clubber mode, this surely sounds like the name of a unique cocktail. But, no, it is actually the name of an iconic natural landmark in Nusa Penida. Devil’s Tears is a lookout point atop a steep cliff. Here, you can witness Nature’s beauty and fury all meshed into one in the form of fierce yet captivating waves crashing relentlessly against the cliffs. This is one of the best spots in Nusa Penida to watch the sunset, so head on earlier to be treated to a resplendent visual delight! For more Indonesian travel inspiration, this island offers an alternative to the crowded beaches in Indonesia.
9.
Weh Island – Get Off The Beaten Track
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Photo by Tim Cook on Unsplash[/caption]
Looking for less touristy Indonesia islands to visit? Weh Island is the perfect destination for those seeking to take the road less traveled. Weh Island is a small island located about an hour away from Banda Aceh. Being relatively untouched, much of Weh Island has been spared by the hands of gentrification and urban development. As a result, it has retained much of its natural beauty that’s sure to take your breath away.
The star highlight of Weh Island is definitely its pristine waters that are teeming with lots of marine creatures. Visitors should definitely try their hand at snorkeling and diving. Furthermore, since Weh Island is usually not on most tourist’s radar, you get to enjoy the beautiful waters all by yourself! For those seeking more adventure, consider pairing a visit with hiking and the outdoors in Indonesia.
10.
Bintan – A Family-Friendly Destination
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Photo by Matt on Unsplash[/caption]
Hands down, Bintan is a classic family favourite holiday destination. Boasting an impeccable range of beach resorts, hotels, and chalets, you will be spoilt for choice. If your dream vacation is one where you can simply relax in a comfortable room with friends and family – look no further than Bintan.
In addition, Bintan also offers various championship golf courses. Golf players will definitely fall in love with this lovely island! Shopaholics will go mad with happiness at the Plaza Lagoi, a modern-day shopping mall in Bintan. Fashion, art, souvenirs and more: you can shop till you drop here!
Indeed, there’s something for everyone in Bintan. It’s no surprise that this one of the Indonesia islands that are popular with families. For more Indonesian travel inspiration, its resorts and beaches make it a top pick for family trips.
11.
Karimun Java – A Real Life Ecology Class
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Photo by Jakob on Unsplash[/caption]
Karimun Java is a must-visit when you’re in Indonesia. The Karimun Java National Park is one of the key highlights of this island. This park is essentially a giant marine conservation area. Here, you can find mangrove forests, sandy beaches, and coral reefs. As Karimun Java is not as populated as other more well-known Indonesia islands like Bali, it is also a sanctuary for wildlife. Here, you can spot wild turtles swimming in the sea and deer and pangolin on land. For Indonesian travel inspiration, this island offers a real-life ecology class.
One of the more popular activities to do in Karimun Java would definitely be swimming with sharks. Yes, you read that right! Karimun Java is probably one of the few Indonesia islands where you can experience such a unique and once-in-a-lifetime activity. If your overactive brain has launched itself into a scene straight out of “Jaws”, fret not. The sharks in this area are smaller than usual, so you don’t have to worry about being bitten.
12.
Derawan Island – Bursting With Biodiversity
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©Photo by Isabella on Unsplash[/caption]
Sandy white beaches, turquoise waters, and swaying coconut trees make Derawan Island the epitome of relaxation. It is also one of the Indonesia islands teeming with biodiversity, home to more than 460 kinds of coral. Snorkelers can spot over 870 species of marine creatures, including endangered whales and dolphins. Derawan Island also hosts the largest turtle habitat and nesting site in Southeast Asia. For those seeking Indonesian travel inspiration, this island is a must. Don’t miss the chance to marvel at these natural wonders when you visit.
13.
Wakatobi Islands – A Diver’s Paradise
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©Photo by Pxhere[/caption]
If you’re an avid diver, put Wakatobi Islands on your itinerary. Blessed with clear, clean waters, Wakatobi is well-loved by divers and far less crowded than other Indonesia islands, offering more space to explore the underwaters. Wakatobi is also home to a national marine park with a grand coral reef, second only to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. The waters are a treasure trove of biodiversity, a humbling sight. For more Indonesian travel inspiration, this hidden gem delivers pristine conditions for underwater exploration.
14.
Bukit Lawang – Home To The Endangered Sumatran Orangutan
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Photo by Dawn on Unsplash[/caption]
The star of Bukit Lawang is Gunung Leuser National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the last places to spot the endangered Sumatran Orangutan. It is a top destination for hiking and the outdoors in Indonesia. You can embark on a challenging hike through its jungles; guided trekking tours are available.
15.
Ternate Island – Rich With Historical Significance
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©Photo by Rahmat on Adobe Stock[/caption]
A small volcanic island set in Eastern Indonesia, Ternate Island may at first glance seem unimpressive. But don't let that fool you. This island was once the only place where valuable spices like nutmeg and cloves were grown. The historical significance of this quaint island makes it one of the more interesting Indonesia islands to visit. For those seeking Indonesian travel inspiration, Ternate offers a unique glimpse into the spice trade that shaped global history.
Takeaway
So, what's stopping you from visiting these Indonesian islands? From family destinations to romantic getaways and party spots, there's something for every traveler. For Indonesian travel inspiration, consider the Gili Islands near Lombok with their pristine waters, or Nusa Penida with world-class resorts and sunset views accessible by a short boat ride from Bali. Seek out hidden gems in Indonesia beyond the usual tourist trails. Whether you're planning a day trip or a longer stay, these islands offer diverse experiences. Don't let a tight schedule hold you back—there's always time for a vacation. Start booking your flights and plan ahead to explore these beautiful destinations.
