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11 of Indonesia's most beautiful islands | Paradise beaches
Indonesia has more than 17.000 islands, and while most people think of Bali first, the real magic lies in other, much more remote corners. In these corners, you won't find large resorts, but you will find quiet islands, palm-fringed beaches, beachfront cabins and coral reefs.
Getting to many of them isn't easy: slow ferries, bus transfers, or internal flights. But I promise you that If what you are looking for is to visit some of the most beautiful islands in Indonesia and having beaches almost to yourself will be worth it.
These are our favorites, a selection of the Indonesia's most paradisiacal islands, although of course there are many more.
Paradise Islands what to visit in Indonesia
Here we go with our selection of what are undoubtedly 11 of the most beautiful islands in Indonesia, in some we have been lucky enough to be and fall in love, we have heard so much about others that we really want to go, hopefully soon!
1. Togean Islands (Sulawesi)
In the north of Central Sulawesi are hidden the Togean Islands, one of those places that seem otherworldly. Getting there isn't easy, nor is it quick, but that's precisely what keeps it so authentic. You'll have to take land transportation to the towns of Amapana or Gorontalo, and from there take a boat to the small archipelago.
For us, it was one of the most special experiences in Indonesia. Sleeping by the sea, snorkeling on beautiful reefs completely alone, and experiencing island life. Most islands have a single hotel with just a few cabins, so the feeling of having the island to yourself is incredible.
If you want to organize your visit, don't miss our complete guide to the Togean where we explain in detail how to get to and enjoy islands as beautiful as Bolilanga, the one in the photo below.
2. Gili Air, Gili Kondo and Gili Asahan (Lombok)
gili islands They are famous all over the world, but I have to admit that we loved the small Gili Air, despite being very touristy. The atmosphere is peaceful and you can dine by the sea or see dozens of turtles while snorkeling on its shores. I also think it's one of the Indonesia's most beautiful islands easily accessible, which are quick and easy to reach, which is why I decided to include it.
Beyond the famous Gilis, there are other Gili in Lombok with paradisiacal beaches. For example Gili Condo, which can be reached on a tour from Lombok, and where it's common to camp on the beach under the stars, a unique experience for those seeking uncrowded Indonesian islands. You'll most likely be completely alone.
And if what you want is a more relaxing place, Gili Asahan It is the hidden gem with boutique resorts on a practically empty island.
We leave you here our complete experience in What to do in Lombok, where we also talk about these islands.
3. Karimunjawa (Java)
Off the coast of Java lies this small archipelago, accessible by ferry from Jepara. Karimunjawa is a surprise: white sand beaches, turquoise waters and the possibility of visiting several islands on day tours.
It is a perfect option if You are going to travel to Java for its waterfalls and volcanoes But you also want to visit paradise. Karimunjawa won't disappoint, with a very peaceful atmosphere, yet it's underdeveloped for tourism, with delicious beachfront restaurants and a variety of accommodations.
4. Flores and Komodo National Park
In Nusa Tenggara, east of Bali, is located Flores, an island that surprises with its reefs. Today, they are considered some of the best preserved on the planet, making it a paradise for diving and snorkeling.
Flores is much more than just the beach: volcanoes, mountains, and villages that preserve unique traditions. It's a very special place, and proof that Indonesia still has many authentic spots where nature reigns supreme.
Are you a diving lover? Check out our guides – What to do in Pulau Weh y What to do in Bunaken the two islands of Indonesia where we have enjoyed the most underwater.
5. Isas Banggai (Sulawesi)
Hidden in East Sulawesi are the Banggai Islands, a true paradise that remains largely unexplored. A combination of fishing villages that maintain a slow pace of life, white sand beaches all to yourself, and freshwater lagoons between palm trees.
To enjoy them, you'll have to take a ferry from Luwuk to this small archipelago. To this day, it's one of the most beautiful and least touristy places we've been to, where there's no luxury, but once you're there, you won't want to leave.
We leave you there Complete guide to visiting the Banggai Islands and our Sulawesi itinerary so you can fit this gem into your route through Indonesia.
6. Derawan Islands (Borneo)
Off the coast of Borneo are the Derawan Islands, one of the most incredible is MaratuaGetting there involves flying to Berau and then taking a boat, but upon arrival, a picture-perfect atoll awaits you, with white-sand beaches and waters of a blue that's hard to believe.
Here you can swim with turtles, manta rays, reef sharks and thousands of tropical fish. It is one of those destinations that are not yet internationally known, but are among the best islands in Indonesia to enjoy marine life.
We are not yet lucky enough to have been there, but we do know the waters of the Malaysian Borneo, just a few kilometers from Maratua and they are incredible, with islands like Bohey Dulang (pictured below) or world-renowned diving and snorkeling spots like Mabul Island or Sipadan.
7. Sumba
East of Bali lies Sumba, an island that combines pristine beaches, unique culture, and perfect waves for surfingYou can fly in from Bali or Kupang, and although it's becoming more and more popular, it's still a very peaceful place.
What attracts most about Sumba are its endless landscapes and the feeling of being in a remote corner with green-covered mountains, waterfalls and beaches.
In addition, Sumba retains a very much alive traditional cultureIn the villages, houses with high, pointed roofs still stand, becoming a symbol of the island, and many of their celebrations maintain a strong connection with ancestral beliefs.
You will find the simplest accommodations, but it is also perfect for those looking for stay in a nice hotel and spend the day swimming in the sea, hiking around the island, and reading in a hammock.
8. Raja Ampat (West Papua)
If we talk about paradise islands of IndonesiaRaja Ampat always makes the list. This archipelago in West Papua is one of the world's most biodiverse marine areas, boasting limestone landscapes amidst postcard-perfect turquoise waters.
We haven't been able to visit it yet, but it's high on our to-do list. Everyone who goes comes back amazed: jungle-covered islets, hidden lagoons, and pristine reefs. Just being there is like being in paradise. You can also stay in small cabins right on the beach or even in ones that jump directly into the water on local islands such as Kri.
9. Mentawai Islands (Sumatra)
mentawai They are world-famous for their perfect surfing waves. You can get there by boat from Padang, and while surfing is the main attraction, the truth is these islands have much more to offer.
In other areas you'll find secluded beaches with tranquil shores, traditional villages, and tours through pristine jungle for those who want to venture beyond the beach. If you're looking for Indonesia's less touristy islands with own culture and intact nature, this is a destination that deserves to be on your radar.
10. Banyak Islands (Sumatra)
In West Sumatra, opposite Singkil, are the Banyak IslandsGetting there requires a small local boat, but what awaits you are dozens of deserted islands, reefs teeming with life, and picture-postcard beaches where you'll likely be alone.
We slept in basic cabins facing the sea and each day we went out by boat to discover new islands. The feeling of freedom is total: here there is no carNo traffic or noise, just sea, jungle, and tranquility. It's one of those paradise destinations in Indonesia that are still authentic.
Here you can read our full experience in the Banyak Islands and, if you want to organize more days in the area, don't miss our 15-day route through Sumatra.
11. Wakatobi (Sulawesi)
In Southeast Sulawesi is Wakatobi, another legendary name for diving enthusiasts. The best way to get there is by plane from Makassar or Kendari.
They say its reefs are some of the most spectacular on the planet, and it's easy to see why it appears on so many lists of paradise destinations in IndonesiaIf you're looking for an unforgettable underwater experience, this is the place. Of course, you'll also find small hotels right in front of beautiful beaches.
These are, for us, The 11 most beautiful islands in IndonesiaSome we've been lucky enough to visit, and others are still on our to-do list, but they all have one thing in common: they're paradisiacal islands, with white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and a tranquility that's hard to find in many other destinations.
If you're looking for authentic destinations away from the crowds, here are several options. If you know of or dream of visiting another Indonesian island paradise not included in this list, please let us know in the comments.
Happy travels!
