Explore Indonesia’s captivating island chains, perfect for those seeking serene beaches and thrilling adventures.
Home to over 18,000 islands and a rich diversity of over 750 languages spoken by 300 ethnic groups, Indonesia offers a unique travel experience. Our curated list of the top 11 islands provides a peek into some of the country’s most secluded and enchanting spots.
1. Karimunjawa (Karimun Jawa) Islands
The Karimunjawa Islands, a serene cluster of 27 islands in the Java Sea, beckon as an untouched paradise. Twenty-two of these islands, forming part of a National Park, boast a vibrant marine ecosystem with more than 400 fish species, 300 types of coral, and numerous other sea creatures.
These islands are ideal for snorkeling enthusiasts, offering pristine waters and rich marine life at sites like Menjangan Kecil and Cemara Kecil. To preserve this natural wonder, visitors are encouraged to practice responsible tourism such as using eco-friendly sunscreen and not disturbing the marine environment.
Reaching Karimunjawa involves several travel options. You can start from Semarang, the capital of Central Java, and take a ferry for a 6 to 7-hour journey, or opt for a quicker 2-hour express ferry ride from Jepara.
Boat on the tropical beach of Karimunjawa Island, IndonesiaShutterstock
The vibrant underwater scene in KarimunjawaShutterstock
2. Komodo National Park
Located in the Lesser Sunda Islands, the UNESCO-listed Komodo National Park is an enthralling destination encompassing several islands such as Komodo, Rinca, and Padar. The park is renowned for its distinctive inhabitant, the Komodo dragon, the largest lizard on earth, alongside a variety of other wildlife including horses and deer.
Notable attractions include the Pink Beach on Komodo Island, known for its unique pink sands. However, the increasing problem of plastic pollution is also visible here. Planning a trip to the park typically starts with a flight to Labuan Bajo on Flores Island, followed by a ferry ride.
Komodo dragonsShutterstock
A tourist holding the pink sands on Komodo IslandShutterstock
3. Flores
The name ‘Flores’ stems from the Portuguese word for ‘flowers,’ a nod to the island’s early European settlers. Flores is noted for its diverse cultural heritage and strong Roman Catholic presence, distinct from the predominantly Sunni Muslim population in other parts of Indonesia.
The island’s natural splendors include the colored crater lakes of Mount Kelimutu, which change colors daily due to volcanic activity. Additional attractions include the stunning Koka Beach, offering a perfect blend of coastal charm and natural beauty.
To visit Flores, travelers can fly into Komodo Airport in Labuan Bajo.
The ever-changing lakes at Mount KelimutuShutterstock
Koka Beach, FloresShutterstock
4. Lombok
Once recognized by British scientist Alfred Russel Wallace for its unique ecological profile, Lombok today stands as a quieter alternative to Bali, offering beautiful beaches like Mawi Beach and the challenging treks of Mount Rinjani.
Lombok’s accessibility from major cities and even international locations like Singapore makes it a versatile holiday spot.
Trekkers on Mount RinjaniShutterstock
Mawi Beach, LombokShutterstock
5. Raja Ampat Islands
The Raja Ampat Islands in West Papua are celebrated for their extraordinary marine biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes, making them a magnet for divers and nature lovers worldwide. The crystal-clear waters are home to a plethora of marine life and spectacular coral reefs.
Visiting Raja Ampat typically involves traveling to the Bird’s Head Peninsula on the island of New Guinea.