Indonesia | The 9 most beautiful islands and archipelagos + best travel time

Indonesia is one of the best destinations in the world if you are a lover of tropical islands and paradise beaches. This country in southeast Asia has more than 17.000 islands, the largest of which Java, Sumatra, Kalimantan (the Indonesian part of Borneo), Sulawesi en Papua (the western part of New Guinea). The most popular island is Bali, but there is so much more to see in Indonesia. Discover untouched nature, an amazing underwater world and friendly locals. Each island has its own unique beauty and charm. Get inspired by some of Indonesia's most beautiful islands and archipelagos (in no particular order).

1. The Nusa Islands

The Nusa Islands, also known as the Nusas, are three islands about 20 kilometers southeast of the mainland of Bali, Indonesia. You can easily reach the islands by boat from the port of Sanur.

Choose Nusa penida, Nusa Lembongan of Nusa ceningan or combine the islands. Jump on the scooter and discover the white sandy beaches, clear sea and green hills. The sea around the islands has a diverse marine life, including colorful coral, tropical fish, manta rays and the special Mola Mola (sunfish).

Also read: Top 10 | What are the cheapest countries for a world trip? (update 2023)

Nusa Penida hotspots
- Kelingking Beach (T Rex Beach)
- Angel's Billabong
- Broken Beach (Pasih Uug)
- Crystal Bay
- Atuh beach
- Guyangan Waterfall with the Blue Stairs

Nusa Lembongan hotspots
– Devil's Tear
– Dream Beach
–Mushroom Bay
–Yellow Bridge
– Mangrove Forest

Nusa Ceningan hotspots
–Blue Lagoon
–Secret Beach
– Mahana Point
– Nusa Ceningan Cliff
– Blue Lagoon Seaview Restaurant

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Travel to the Nusa Islands

If you would like to go on holiday to the Nusa's, it is best to do this from Bali. Grab a taxi to the port of Sanur, where you can take a boat to one of the Nusa islands. The crossing takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on which island you want to visit. Are you easily seasick? Then take a travel pill in advance, because the sea can be quite wild.

Best time to travel to Nusa Islands

The Nusa Islands have a tropical climate with a dry season and a rainy season. The best time to travel is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During this period you have the greatest chance of spotting manta rays, especially around Nusa Penida Manta Point en Manta bay. Divers can come face to face with huge angelfish (mola mola) from August to October. There is plenty of choice in terms of accommodation, for example directly on the beach or in a tree house.

Also read: Itinerary Bali 2 to 4 weeks | Hints and Highlights

2. The Gili Islands

The Gili Islands lie off the coast of Lombok (east of Bali), consisting of Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno en Gili Air. They have become popular tourist destinations in recent years. No motorized vehicles are allowed on the Gili Islands, which is a relief if you come from the busier places of Bali.

Explore the islands by bicycle, on foot or by horse and carriage. Which island suits you best depends on your interests. Gili Trawangan is mainly for travelers looking for liveliness, nightlife and lots of activities. Gili Air is a lot quieter, but there is still plenty to do and see. Want total relaxation on a more remote island? Then choose Gili Meno. Go snorkeling, scuba diving, paddle boarding or kayaking. You will definitely have fun here!

Gili Trawangan hotspots
– The main street
– Gili Trawangan Pie
– Turtle Point
– Gili Trawangan night market

Gili Air hot spots
– Underwater images
– Gili Air art market
– Pantai Sunset (sunset beach)

Gili Meno hotspots
—Salt Lake
– Snorkeling at Meno Wall
– Pantai Utara (north beach)

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Travel to the Gili Islands

The fastest way to travel to the Gili's is via Lombok. From the airport, take a taxi to the port of Ward, where most boats leave for the Gili's. You can choose from public ferries or faster speedboats. The ferries depart several times a day and the crossing takes about 15-30 minutes, depending on which island you want to visit. You can also go to the Gili islands from Bali, for example from the port of Padangbai. The trip takes approximately two hours.

Best time to travel to the Gili Islands

You can visit the Gili Islands all year round, but the best time to travel is in the dry season from April to October. The weather conditions are then most stable with pleasant temperatures between 28°C and 32°C and little rain. Perfect for beach days, riding a scooter or exploring the underwater world. The rainy season runs from November to March. In this period it is often warmer and more humid with a greater chance of rain showers and strong winds. Yet there are still plenty of sunny days in the low season and it is a lot quieter with tourists.

3. The Komodo Islands

De Komodo Islands are part of the East Nusa Tenggara Province from Indonesia. They are located about 450 kilometers east of Bali and are part of it Komodo National Park, which is on the World Heritage List of UNESCO state.

On the Komodo islands you will find great nature, sandy beaches in various colors, beautiful coral reefs and impressive Komodo dragons. A destination that has grown rapidly in recent years and attracts divers and nature lovers in particular.

Komodo islands hot spots
–Pink Beach (Pantai Merah)
– Padar Island + viewpoint
–Rinca Island
– Kanawa Island
–Manta Point
– Gili Lawa Darat Island
—Siaba Besar
– Kalong Island (Bat Island)
– Taka Makassar
–Kelor Island
– Batu Bolong (dive spot)

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Travel to the Komodo Islands

If you would like to visit the Komodo islands, the first logical stop is the international airport Denpasar on the island of Bali. From there, take a domestic flight to the airport Labuan Bajo, the main entry point to the Komodo Islands. During this flight of about an hour, you have a spectacular view over the green hills and the many shades of blue sea water of the archipelago. Once you have arrived in Labuan Bajo, you can choose whether to book your accommodation here and make boat trips from there or go on a liveaboard for a few days, for example with Le Pirate.

Best time to visit Komodo Islands

The Komodo Islands have a tropical climate, just like many other islands in Indonesia. On average, the temperatures are between 25°C and 34°C. The dry season from April to October / November is the most popular season to visit the Komodo Islands. During this period there is a small chance of rain and you often have blue skies with a calm sea. The rainy season runs from December to March. It won't get cold, but you do have more chance of heavy showers and a restless sea. Travel is still possible, but sometimes tours and boat activities are canceled due to bad weather. The southern part of Komodo National Park is usually less affected by the rainy season.

4.Thousand Islands

De Thousand islands, also known as Pulau Seribu, is a beautiful archipelago located off the coast of Jakarta, Indonesia. This archipelago consists of about 110 islands and is a popular destination for beach lovers. You will find beautiful coral reefs, clear water and good snorkeling, diving and water sports options.

Thousand island hot spots
–Pramuka Island
–Kelapa Island
– Tidung Island
– Ayer Island
– Bidadari Island
–Macan Island (Tiger Island)
– Pari Island
– Sepa Island
–Pantara Island
–Harapan Island

Travel to the Thousand Islands

If you want to visit the Thousand Islands, first fly to Jakarta. Then travel to the marina of Muara Angke (about 1-2 hours), where the ferries leave. Several ferries run several times a day, for example with ferry companies Marina Ancol and Karya Bahari. Check the current timetable in advance to be sure. The crossing to the Thousand Islands also takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on which island you are traveling to.

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Best time to visit Thousand Islands

De beste tijd om de Thousand Islands te bezoeken is tijdens het droge seizoen, dat loopt van mei tot september. De temperaturen liggen tussen 26°C en 32°C. Het kan overdag behoorlijk heet en vochtig zijn, maar ‘s nachts koelt het gelukkig wat af. Het regenseizoen valt samen met het noordoostelijke moessonseizoen. De meeste regen valt tussen december en februari, maar ook daarbuiten heb je kans op flinke regenbuien. De zee is vaak wat ruwer, wat van invloed kan zijn op boottochten en watersportactiviteiten.

5. The Mentawai Islands

This archipelago is located off the coast of West Sumatra and is a paradise for adventurous travelers and surfers. In addition, you will also find pristine jungle, white sandy beaches and a traditional indigenous culture. Everything you need for an authentic island experience.

Mentawai Islands hot spots
– Siberian National Park
– Pulau Nyang Nyang
—Pagai Cliff
– Sipora Island (surf spots Telescopes and Lance's Right)
– Pasapuat Waterfall
–North Pagai Island (Pagai Utara)
–South Pagai Island (Pagai Selatan)
— Saibi Samukop
–Masokut Island

Travel to the Mentawai Islands

The most common route is to get to the international airport first Jakarta to fly. Then take a domestic flight to the airport Padang, the main gateway to the Mentawai Islands. With the fast ferry you are about 3 hours on the way to the main island Siberian. Please note that there can be big waves depending on the weather and season.

Best time to visit Mentawai Islands

The months of March to October are ideal for visiting the Mentawai Islands. During this period, the weather conditions are favourable, with mostly dry weather and less chance of rain showers. Do you like surfing? Then you should definitely come in this season, because the waves are very favorable then. Stay in one of the many surf resorts or surf camps or opt for a more authentic experience such as a homestay.

6. The Togian Islands

The Togian Islands are a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers and travelers seeking remote and unspoiled destinations. Whether you want to dive, snorkel, hike, relax on the beach or experience the local culture, the Togian Islands have it all. The archipelago is located in the Gulf of Tomini in Central Sulawesi and consists of beautiful white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and a diverse underwater world with healthy coral and colorful fish.

Togian Islands hotspots

–Kadidiri Island
– Una Una Island
–Jellyfish Lake (Mariona Island)
– Taipi Island
– Karina Beach (Malenge Island)
– Bolilanga Island
–Bajau Village
–Togian Hill (Batudaka Island)
– Malenge Hot Springs (Malenge Island)
–Papan Island

Travel to the Togian Islands

The Togian Islands are quite difficult to reach, which is why they are not visited that much. First of all, you fly to the airport Gorontalo, for example from Jakarta, Makassar, Or herd (with Garuda Indonesia or Lion Air).

From Gorontalo take a taxi to the port (30 minutes) and then the ferry to the Togian Islands. The ferries usually depart in the evening and take about 10 hours. You can also from Ampana take the boat, the travel time is around 3 to 6 hours. Traveling to the Togian Islands takes a little more planning and flexibility, but it is well worth it.

The Togians are not yet very developed for tourists. That has its charm, but you have less choice in terms of accommodation. You will find a beautiful tree house right on the beach at it Araya Dive Resort Togean (click here). You can also enjoy great snorkeling and diving here. Homestays are always a good option if you want to mingle with the locals. Another recommendation is Kadidiri Paradise (click here).

Best time to visit Togian Islands

The best time to visit the Togian Islands is between May and September when it is quite calm and dry. The average temperatures on the Togians are usually between 26°C and 32°C. Enjoy the sun and take a dip in the water for snorkeling and/or diving. The coral reef is very beautiful and with a bit of luck you can even see dolphins. The rainy season falls between November and April. The humidity then rises considerably, there are more clouds and occasionally a heavy monsoon shower blows over.

7. The Karimunjawa Islands

The Karimunjawa Islands are an archipelago in the Java Sea, about 90 kilometers northwest of Japan, a city in Central Java, Indonesia. Of the 27 small islands, only five are inhabited.

Most of the Karimunjawa archipelago has been declared a National Park. A great area with coral reefs, sea turtles, colorful fish and endangered species such as the Javan deer, the Javan crested langur and the Javan fish eagle.

Enjoy beautiful beaches, clear blue water, snorkeling, diving and other water sports activities. The islands are also ideal for exploring mangrove forests and discovering diverse species of birds.

Karimunjawa islands hotspots
–Menjangan Besar Island
– Tanjung Gelam Beach
–Love Hill (Bukit Cinta)
–Cemara Kecil Island
–Karimunjawa Village
– Batu Topeng Beach
– Gosong Cemara
–Menjangan Kecil Island
– Karimunjawa Fish Auction

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Travel to the Karimunjawa Islands

The Karimunjawa islands can be reached from various cities on the Indonesian island Java, like Semarang, Japan en Surabaya. Jepara is the main departure point for ferries to this archipelago. The boat trip usually takes about 4 to 5 hours, depending on the type of ferry and weather conditions. If you want to save time, choose a speedboat from Jepara or Semarang. It will take you about 2 to 3 hours.

Another option is to fly, because there is also a small airport
Karimunjawa. Fly to Semarang or Surabaya and from there take a domestic flight to Dewandaru Airport on Karimunjawa Island. There are limited flights, so check and book well in advance.

Best time to travel Karimunjawa Islands

The best time to travel to Karimunjawa is during the dry season from April to September. The weather is more favorable and there is less rain. The high season often coincides with the Indonesian school holidays and national holidays, which is something to take into account. You can choose from a variety of accommodations, from budget-friendly homestays to luxury resorts.

If you want to visit these islands in the rainy season, take into account poorer visibility underwater, more waves and wind and heavy rain showers. Prepare yourself well, then it can only be better than expected.

8. The Raja Ampat Islands

Raja Ampat West Papua is an archipelago consisting of more than 1.500 islands. It is a real paradise on earth, with spectacular limestone cliffs, crystal clear water, dense jungle, white sand beaches, colorful coral reefs and friendly locals. Due to its location in the Coral Triangle, it has Raja Ampat a great biodiversity, both under and above water. Almost everything you can think of in terms of marine life can be found in this region. A top destination for snorkelers, divers and nature lovers.

Raja Ampat hotspots
–Wayag Island
–Piaynemo (Penemu) Island
– Misool Island
– Arborek Island
— Friwen Wall
– Kri Island
– Gam Island
– Sawinggrai Village
–Batanta Island
–Yenbuba Village

Travel to Raja Ampat

To visit Raja Ampat, first fly to the international airport of push, the main gateway to Raja Ampat. There are regular flights from major cities in Indonesia, such as Jakarta, Makassar en herd (with, for example, Garuda Indonesia and Lion Air). From Sorong airport, take a taxi or local van to the port. Then take the ferry to Waisai, the capital of Raja Ampat. The ferry takes about two hours. If you want to travel faster, arrange a speedboat through your accommodation.

Because communication is sometimes difficult due to the poor coverage and limited internet, it is wise to arrange everything in advance. From Waisai harbor you will often be picked up by someone from your homestay or resort. It is then an average of an hour of sailing in a small boat, depending on the island you are going to.

Best time to travel to Raja Ampat

The best time to visit Raja Ampat is during the dry season, which runs from October to April. During these months the sea is generally calm and the weather sunny, ideal for snorkeling, diving and exploring the beautiful islands. The disadvantage of traveling in high season is that it is busier, especially at the popular sights and dive sites. The rainy season is a bit more changeable, but with a bit of luck you will have many beautiful days. In whatever season you travel, Raja Ampat is an unforgettable destination!

9. The Banda Islands

This archipelago is located in the Banda Sea, in the province Maluku between Ambon en Timor. A relatively unknown destination, but certainly no less beautiful than other islands in Indonesia.

The Banda Islands are known as the Spice Islands, due to their production of nutmeg and mace. In addition, they have a unique architecture, which is why the islands have been named UNESCO-World Heritage.

The main islands in the archipelago are Band Neira, Banda Besar, Gunung API, Ain a Run. If you like to travel off the beaten track, you will be pleasantly surprised with green landscapes, deserted beaches and beautiful coral reefs. On the Banda islands you can snorkel and dive well, such as at the active volcano Gunung API.

Banda islands hot spots
– Banda Neira (Neira Island)
– Gunung Api (Fire Mountain)
– Hatta Island (Pulau Hatta)
– Banda Besar (Great Banda Island)
–Ai Island (Pulau Ai)
–Run Island (Pulau Run)
– Banda Api (Volcano Island)
–Lonthoir Island (Pulau Lonthoir)
–Syahrir Island (Pulau Syahrir)
– Nailaka Island (Pulau Nailaka)

Travel to the Banda Islands

Fly to first Ambon, the capital of the province Maluku. Ambon has an international airport (Pattimura Airport), with regular flights from various cities in Indonesia, such as Jakarta en Makassar. Travel from Ambon to the port of Tulehu, here you take a ferry to the Banda Islands. You will be on the road for about 6 to 8 hours. Check availability and departure times in advance, because the ferries do not run daily.

On the Banda Islands you have a reasonable choice of accommodation (especially in Banda Neira), from simple guesthouses to comfortable hotels in colonial buildings. If you enjoy diving, look at a liveaboard or dive resort. As it is a fairly remote archipelago, we recommend booking your stay in advance.

Best time to visit Banda Islands

The best time to travel to the Banda Islands is from February to early May and from October to early December. The water is clear and the marine life is at its best. Temperatures are between 25°C and 32°C all year round. In the rainy season, the sea is a bit rougher and you have more chance of stormy weather. This may affect visibility while diving and snorkeling, and some activities may be canceled suddenly.

Good to know: the Moluccas (except the Banda Islands) have a reversed rainy season than the rest of Indonesia. On most islands in Indonesia, the weather is good from April to September, while the Moluccas have bad weather.