Top 10 Must-Visit Islands in Indonesia for Your Next Holiday

Indonesia, the largest archipelago in the world comprising over 17,500 islands is nothing short of a beachy wonderland. Its sandy shores, pristine turquoise waters, and lush landscapes will make you seriously question the idea of the daily grind, and wonder if you should simply pack a bag and live the off-grid island life.

Over and above the aesthetics, the Indonesian islands also boast delectable oriental cuisine, a warm and vibrant culture, and exotic volcanoes, making it an explorative gem for tourists. 

If you’ve ever considered an Indonesia trip, it would be worthwhile to explore niche, carefully selected Indonesia tour packages that cover some of the iconic islands like Bali, as well as other unique experiences.

For a head start on your itinerary, here we explore the top 10 must-visit islands in Indonesia.

Bali

Bali, the epitome of oriental culture, the “Island of the Gods”, and the most welcoming destination you can ever experience, is undoubtedly one of the best islands in Indonesia. Located to the west of Java, the place boasts exotic rice terraces, an array of ancient intricately constructed temples, sparkling beaches along a mesmerizing coastline, and coral reefs. Some of its most prominent attractions include the Seminyak and Kuta beaches, mountain peaks at Kintamani, and the Tulamben coral reefs. In addition to sightseeing, Bali is also home to a host of bustling markets brimming with oriental delicacies, treasure-worthy souvenirs, handicrafts, and more.

The climate of Bali is favourable year-round with distinct dry and wet seasons and no extreme conditions. For the same reason, the best month to visit Bali is simply when you would like to set off on a trip. For an exploratively rich Bali holiday, visit the island during the dry seasons of spring and summer, and to romanticize the rain, visit during the wet season.

Be sure to check out unique Bali travel packages to make the most of your Indonesian vacation.

Gili Islands

Next on the list is Gili Islands, an exotic paradise for honeymooners and solo adventure seekers alike. The place offers the most authentic and thrilling experience for water sports enthusiasts hosting activities like scuba diving, surfing, snorkeling, and more. Some of the most prominent of the Gili Islands are Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno, of which the latter is most appealing to romantic honeymooners looking for private little escapades. Being one of the best islands in Indonesia, the place undoubtedly carries the warm oriental aura, making it another popular tourist destination in Asia.

Also Read: Temples in Bali: Discover the Island’s Spiritual Treasures

Flores Island

Nestled picturesquely in East Nusa Tenggara, is Flores Island – a mystical manifestation of nature. Brimming with attractions such as towering mountains, sandy beaches, and the famous colour-changing crater lakes on Mount Kelimutu, it is unsurprisingly one of the best islands in Indonesia. With several vantage points for postcard landscape views, it is a great place for Instagrammers to click pictures advocating self love. Culture enthusiasts can blend in with the local ethnic groups, learn about their lifestyle and traditions, and experience an authentic taste of life in Indonesia.

Wakatobi Islands

The Wakatobi Islands are a group of four main isles – Wangi-Wangi, Tomia, Kaledupa, and Binongko. Located south of Sulawesi in Indonesia, these islands are most notable for their rich diving spots. Holding insightful treasure troves within, the waters of the Wakatobi islands are another world altogether. You will find exotic fish species, magical coral species, and other marine wonders in the world-recognized diving spots. To protect and preserve the rich underwater biodiversity, the Wakatobi National Park was also established. Touted as an ‘Underwater Nirvana’ by famous marine explorer Jacques Cousteau, the Wakatobi islands are another one of the must-visit islands in Indonesia.

Banda Islands

The Banda Islands are best known for being something of a spice utopia. With a special soft corner for nutmeg and mace, the islands were once the only source for these spices back in the mid 19th century. It boasts a unique culture shaped by years of foreign dominance, particularly influenced by the Portuguese, the Dutch, and the British. In addition to aromatic spice gardens, the place is also home to many hiking trails, including the highest peak in Indonesia Gunung Api. Being another one of the best islands in Indonesia, it is invariably a hotspot for water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing as well.

Also Read: Travelling to Bali with Kids: A Fun-Filled Family Guide

Bangka-Belitung Islands

Located to the east of Sumatra, is another mini-archipalego of seven isles called the Bangka-Belitung Islands. Popularly considered as one of the most charming islands in the entire country by native Indonesians, the Bangka-Belitung Islands are indeed a sight to behold. Graciously blending all that makes for a picture-perfect natural wonderland including pristine blue waters, soft flowing sands, and awe-inspiring rock formations, the islands offer one of the most unique sensorially pleasurable experiences in all of Indonesia.

Nusa Islands

The Nusa Islands, another hub for plenty of trademarked tourist activities, is a group of three mini isles – Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan. Just like other islands in Indonesia, the Nusa group also offers ample spots for scuba diving, snorkeling, and surfing. However, under the waters of these islands, you will find a whole other world boasting rare sightings of sharks, stingrays, turtles, and other never-before-seen flora. Needless to say, playing in these waters necessitates the utmost safety precautions. In addition to water activities, the Nusa Islands host a handful of other interesting activities such as cliff jumping at Nusa Ceningan, sun bathing at the Kelingking Beach, and crossing the iconic yellow bridge between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan.

Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is for the off-beat traveller looking for escapades in culture and tradition, as opposed to a quintessential tropical beach vacation or Bali holiday. Boasting amazing temple ruins that tell stories of cultures forgotten, the vast Indian Ocean on one side, and the majestic Mount Merapi on the other, the island offers a memorable mental image that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Over and above its aesthetics, the place is best known for its vibrant culture, indigenous crafts, and delicious oriental cuisine. Tourists visiting these islands in Indonesia immerse themselves in the local artwork and dance performances depicting rich myths and legends of Indonesia.

Bunaken

Bunaken packs a punch when it comes to tourist value. Home to the iconic Bunaken National Marine Park where as much as 70% of the entire fish species reserve of the Indo-Western Pacific Ocean lives, the place is a priceless treasure for scuba divers and snorkeling enthusiasts. Its azure waters are indeed more than just a treat for the eyes. The beaches, as it goes without saying, are nothing short of sandy paradises with exotic backdrops of the Indian Ocean and its varying facades. Also famous for its local liquor, Cap Tikus, Bunaken is indeed another one of the best islands of Indonesia.

Also Read: What Not to Do in Bali: Essential Tips to Avoid Trouble on Your Trip

Ubud

Last but not least is Ubud, popularly known to be the cultural heart of Bali. Home to magnificent rice terraces, towering mountains, elegant temples, forests, and more stunning landscapes, Ubud is a favourite destination among travellers, particularly solo globetrotters looking for soul-filling experiences. Apart from its scenic beauty, Ubud also holds value as the home of the royal families of Bali. The culture, as typical of any island in Indonesia, is warm and inviting. Combined with a thriving art and crafts scene, the place offers a rare taste of the oriental country. Housing numerous art galleries, museums, and markets selling authentic Balinese handicrafts, Ubud stands as a testament to a wholesome Bali holiday.

Wrapping Up: Your Handy Guide to The Must-Visit Islands in Indonesia

From the crowd-favourite Bali to the enchanting Flores island to the peaceful Yogyakarta, Indonesia plays home to some of the most unique experiences in the world. Whether it is the underwater biodiversity of Wakatobi islands or the spice gardens of the Bands islands, each destination in the Asian wonder holds something special to uncover. 

If an Indonesia tour is on your bucket list for this year, wait no more; book cheap flights to Bali and look for the best hotels in Bali as well for a comfortable stay. Apply for your Indonesia visa, or visa on arrival (VoA) online as well to avoid hassles.

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FAQs

How many islands are in Indonesia?

Indonesia comprises more than 17,500 islands. Some technical estimates state that there are 18,300+ islands. Of these, only 6000 islands are known to be inhabited.

What are the five main islands of Indonesia?

The five main islands of Indonesia are Java, Sumatra, Sulawesi, Borneo (shared with Malaysia and Brunei as well), and New Guinea (shared with Papua New Guinea).

Which is the best island to visit in Indonesia?

Indonesia is home to a large number of stunning, equally beautiful islands with various unique highlights. The best island to visit in Indonesia depends on the kind of experience you are looking for.

Here is an overview of some of the most popular islands in Indonesia and their most noteworthy experiences.

• Bali – beautiful landscapes, beaches, oriental culture and cuisine
• Gili islands  – water sports and secluded beaches
• Flores Island – picturesque landscapes, colour-changing lake, local culture
• Wakatobi islands – underwater biodiversity, water sports
• Banda Islands – spice gardens, landscapes, unique mixed culture
• Bangka-Belitung Islands – picture-perfect scenery
• Nusa Islands – water sports, unique underwater flora and fauna, adventure land activities
• Yogyakarta – cultural retreat, temple ruins, arts and crafts
• Bunaken – marine biodiversity, beautiful landscapes, local liquor
• Ubud – cultural heart of Bali, oriental culture, arts and crafts

Do I need a visa to visit Bali?

Indians are eligible for Indonesia visa on arrival (VoA) for short stays such as for tourism purposes. A single Indonesia visa will let you stay in the country for up to 30 days.

What is the safest island in Indonesia?

Bali is one of the most visited and popular destinations in Indonesia. It is considered very safe for tourists as the island is equipped with a well-designed tourist infrastructure. It also has warm and friendly locals. Crime is generally rare in Bali.

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Quick Summary

Discover the 10 best, must-visit islands in Indonesia, perfect to plan your next summer trip in this article. Also learn more about the core attractions in each island, the best month to visit Bali, the best kept secret of Flores island and many more intriguing facts.

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