6 Must Visit Islands In Indonesia

With more than 17,000 islands, Indonesia is the largest archipelago in the world. Located in Southeast Asia, right between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, and directly over the equator, this is the world’s largest island country in the world. Due to the variety of islands Indonesia offers, it’s no surprise that you’ll find an island adventure that is perfect for you. The staggeringly beautiful country offers gorgeous beaches, stunning volcanoes, some of the world’s best diving destinations, and exotic cultures. While some of the islands have gained popularity as travel destinations, there are many that are still untouched by humans. Some of them are renowned surf destinations, while others are home to fascinating endemic species. Therefore, don’t be limited to the pristine white beaches, lush rainforests and stunning volcanoes. Explore the various islands in Indonesia according to your interests.

# Bali Island

Bali is a world-acclaimed island paradise which is located just over two kilometres from the eastern tip of Java and west of Lombok. Bali is one of the most beautiful islands in Indonesia and is also known as the Island of the Gods. Over the years, Bali has won over the hearts of tourists with its many charms such as a varied landscape, incredible beaches, and an intriguing Hindu culture. Now, the island boasts many newly discovered attractions, passionate expat communities, and luxe establishments. Bali welcomes millions of international tourists annually, and offers something for everyone, be it natural features, food, cultural workshops, art, shopping or more. Other than your usual beach activities such as kayaking, surfing and diving, when in Bali, visit the town of Ubud, home to forests filled with monkeys, artists and galleries, or explore Hindu temples. You can also hike around the foothills of the active volcano Mount Batur, or see the traditional rice terraces still farmed by local residents.

# Lombok Island

Another one of the popular islands in Indonesia, Lombok is located east of Bali and west of Sumbawa. Often dubbed Bali’s more laid-back sister, Lombok is a part of the Lesser Sunda Island chain. The island is very well known for its divine beaches, the majestic Mount Rinjani and a spectacular marine life. Along with its stunning natural landscapes, the island is a surfers’ paradise, especially for those who prefer a more intimate atmosphere and historic cities. One such example would be Mataram, the largest city of Lombok. Here, you can find the stunning 18th century palace of Taman Mayura and a Hindu temple turned into a park by local residents, Taman Narmada.

# Komodo Island

The island of Komodo is located between the islands of Sumbawa and Flores in the East Nusatenggara province of Indonesia. Komodo island is a part of the Lesser Sunda chain of islands and forms part of the Komodo National Park. The island is the native home of the komodo dragon, the world’s largest lizard that hunts prey as big as water buffalo. It is the only place where you can see these giant lizards roaming freely. Aside from this fascinating creature, Komodo’s rugged terrain, its volcanic slopes that open up to beautiful bays ringed with pink sand alone could justify its recent fame as a hip island destination. Komodo is considered to be one of the most beautiful islands in Indonesia and offers lavish accommodations and liveaboard boats leading to adventure and tranquility at one place.

# Gili Islands

The Gili Islands is an archipelago of three small islands and is located off the coast of Lombok. Each of the three islands have their own charm. Gili Trawangan, is the biggest of the three and is known for its vibrant nightlife and is also the perfect place to try scuba diving, relax with a week-long yoga retreat or go surfing. The Gili Meno island is a desert-island getaway that is known to be far more serene and quiet, making it the most romantic of the Gilis and a popular honeymoon destination. The third island, Gili Air is the spot for pure escapism. It is wildly popular with serious scuba divers who’d want to explore an impressive underwater world hiding some of the planet’s rarest and most dangerous marine species. While all these islands have their own character, they all offer postcard-perfect white sandy beaches, coral reefs and cute homestays, without any cars, dogs or in-your-face commercialisation.

# Seram Island

Seram Island is a mountainous, sparsely populated island which is located in eastern Indonesia (Maluku Province), near New Guinea. It is the largest and the main island in the province of Maluku. Seram is almost completely covered with dense rainforests, white-sand beaches, coconut palms, and turquoise waters. While much of the island is underdeveloped, the island is well known for trekking, camping, snorkelling and diving. You will also find a number of trails that you can follow across the island to enjoy many endemic flora and fauna.

# Wakatobi Islands

The Wakatobi Islands are situated off the shore of Sulawesi island and is the collective name for the four islands that form a mini-archipelago. These islands are Wangi-Wangi, Kaledupa, Tomia and Binongko. Located in the Coral Triangle, the Wakatobi islands are known for being a fantastic dive destination and have hundreds of diving spots. Filled with vibrant underwater life, each of these diving spots are inhabited by different sets of corals, fish, seaweed, and other marine biodiversity. As the islands sit within the wider Wakatobi National Park, you can enjoy the diversity of marine life by simply walking around the islands or snorkeling and swimming. A lesser known paradise, these islands are relatively quiet and pristine compared to other mainstream Indonesan islands.