Island Hopping in Indonesia: Top Destinations Beyond Bali

Indonesia is home to 17,000 islands - and Bali is certainly one of the most famous and most loved around the world. But with that many islands to choose from, why visit just one? Indonesia spans three time zones, and offers some of the most diverse landscapes and unique cultures any travel destination could hope to. If you're wondering about what to explore beyond Bali, let us take you on a quick tour around some places we think should be added to your itinerary. 

Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan are under the administration of Klungkung Regency, Bali. They are favorite destinations for nature tourism, especially for beach, sea, and adventure enthusiasts.

The Nusa Islands: 

Technically, they're still part of Bali, but the Nusa Islands offer a slower and different pace of life to the mainland. The largest of them is Nusa Penida, a worldwide tourism hub known for its white sand beaches, which include the iconic Kelingking Beach and Angel's Billabong natural infinity pool. To get there, you simply need to hop on a thirty minute boat from Sanur, although during busy seasons, it's advisable to book your boat in advance. 

Nusa Penida's neighbours include Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, two smaller islands which are connected by a narrow and iconic yellow bridge. Nusa Lembongan offers a multitude of opportunities for both relaxing on pristine beaches or doing watersports, including snorkelling with manta rays, paddle boarding, or surfing from a boat as the reef is far from shore. For more active travelers, there are sea mangroves which can be navigated by canoe, although beware of the currents. Nusa Ceningan is home to more secluded beaches, sunset spots and the Blue Lagoon, the perfect place to unwind with a cocktail and soak in the incredible views. 

Java: 

We can't leave Java out of this article, although being the cultural heart of Indonesia, it certainly needs no introduction. Aside from its capital Jakarta, this island boasts the incredible Borobudur and Prambanan temples near the bustling city of Yogyakarta, as well as Mount Bromo's otherworldly volcanic landscapes. Couple these places with the sulfur lake of Mount Ijen, and you'll have a culture and nature trip like no other. 

Labuan Bajo: 

If you're ready for dramatic landscapes, then head to Labuan Bajo, a starting point for endless adventures and a short, one-hour flight from Bali. What was once a simple fishing village in the most western point of Flores has now become a fully-fledged harbour town where you can get on a liveaboard ship and sail around the surrounding areas. The trip promises endless views of islands fringed with white or pink sand jutting out of the blue sea. One of the most popular places in the region is Komodo Island, home to the famous Komodo dragon. However, there are also other incredible species which can be spotted as you snorkel or sail, such as dolphins and giant Kalong bats flying overhead during their nightly migration. 

Raja Ampat: 

Raja Ampat is an area loved by diving enthusiasts which is also known as the 'Amazon of the Sea,' as it is home to the world's most pristine coral reef systems. The archipelago consists of over 1,500 islands, cays and shoals that harbour countless species including wobbegong sharks, tropical fish and manta rays.

Raja Ampat is one of the regions with the highest marine biodiversity in the world.

The Gili Islands: 

This mention will hardly come as a surprise: the Gili Islands, the postcard perfect trio of islands off the coast of Lombok consisting of Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno. Each of these islands has its own flavour, with Gili Trawangan being the most famous for its party and backpacking scene, whilst still having a laid back atmosphere as it doesn't have motorized vehicles. Gili Meno is the perfect tranquil escape for honeymooners, couples and those seeking a peaceful retreat. Gili Air is somewhere in between Gili T and Gili Meno, with its bars and restaurants offering a calm but still convivial atmosphere to enjoy as the evening sets in. 

Sumba: 

Sumba has been gaining recognition in recent years for its distinctive traditional villages, exceptional beaches and high end luxury resorts. The island is home to the Sumbanese people and their ancestral religion, Marapu, which focuses on creating harmony between humans and spirits. There are unique cultural events unlike anywhere else in Indonesia, such as the annual Pasola festival which is celebrated to guarantee a good harvest. This is one to visit for megalithic tombs, interesting architecture, friendly people and wild horses running along white sand beaches - what's not to love? 

Sumatra:

Sumatra is Indonesia's largest island, and gives a completely different perspective with its lush rainforests and volcanic lakes. For nature lovers, it's an absolute must-visit with orangutan sanctuaries, Southeast Asia's largest volcanic lake, Lake Toba, and world-famous surf breaks found in the Mentawai Islands. 

Mentawai is a popular destination for surfers worldwide due to its challenging and consistent waves.

Lombok: 

Just a stone's throw from Bali, Lombok is definitely the place to visit for those who were hoping for a more peaceful break. The island has its own unique identity that features traditional Sasak villages in the interior, and heavenly beaches on the coast. If you fancy pushing yourself, then climbing Mount Rinjani as a multi-day hike could be the perfect adventure, although make sure you're prepared for the tough climb. 

Hidden Gems: 

The Banda Islands

For the history lovers among us, visiting the Banda Islands is sure to be an interesting trip. These islands were the only source of nutmeg and the center of the spice trade. Many travelers tried to find them, including Christopher Columbus, but failed to do so until the Portuguese finally landed there in 1512, followed by the Dutch in 1599. This remote archipelago in Maluku is quite difficult to reach, but those who make the effort will be rewarded. It boasts both vibrant coral reefs bursting with marine life and historical sites preserved by the archipelago's isolation, making it a perfect off-the-beaten-path destination.

Belitung Island

Belitung is an island off the eastern coast of Sumatra, and has been gaining recognition among travelers in recent years. At just an hour's flight from Jakarta, it offers a perfect escape from Java's bustling cities. Quiet and tranquil beaches provide the perfect backdrop for relaxing or photography, due to Belitung’s unique granite boulder formations. The island gained widespread domestic attention after being featured in the movie "Laskar Pelangi" (Rainbow Troops) and boasts a unique heritage from its tin mining industry and traditional fishing villages.

Which Indonesian Destination Will You Visit Next? 

With so much to explore, Indonesia has something to offer every type of traveler. Whatever you're looking for - whether it's beautiful beaches, surfing, ancient temples, rainforests or diverse ecosystems - you can find it here. Whilst many people make Bali their first stop, there's so much to see by getting off the usual tourist trail.

If you are planning on making a trip to Indonesia soon, make sure that you have the right visa so your travel plans are smooth. To find out more information, please check out our website visa services page, or feel free to contact one of our friendly experts on WhatsApp. As Bali’s premier business consulting and visa agency, you can count on us to help you make your trip stress-free and enjoyable.

Written by Team Bali Solve

30 January 2025