Indonesia continually beckons discerning travellers with its promise of sun-soaked beaches and varied wildlife to discover, all set against a dramatic backdrop of waterfalls, smouldering volcanoes, and rugged rainforest. The sprawling Indonesian archipelago encompasses over 17,000 different islands; with a dizzying number of places to explore, and warm locals to welcome you, it’s no wonder that all kinds of tourists (from backpackers to honeymooners) flock here in a steady stream. Below, we break down the best Indonesian islands for all kinds of holidaymakers.
When is the best time to visit Indonesia?
Indonesia’s dry season runs from April-October, with sunshine and clear skies guaranteed during the months of June-September. The weather is pleasantly sticky all year round, and slivers of sunshine are still expected during the off-season. As long as you don’t mind a rainstorm or two (often short-lived), visiting in the wet months of November-March can be more economical, and just as enjoyable.
Which is the most beautiful island in Indonesia?
Each of the islands are wildly beautiful, offering a varied mix of tropical tangle, swooping beaches, and volcanic tuff. With their own personality and uniquely panoramic views, it’s best to prioritise your visit around how you prefer to spend your holiday, whether that’s spotting Komodo’s diverse wildlife, surfing the waves at Sumba, or simply spread-eagling yourself on the sand in Lombok.
The best island for a little bit of everything
Bali is Indonesia’s most famous and well-trodden island. There’s something for everyone here, from unwinding at pampering wellness retreats, discovering the island’s deep-rooted spirituality, and late-night partying. For the latter, head to Canggu, which is chock-full of Australian brunch cafes and louche beach clubs. Entrepreneurs and freelancers from all over the globe flock here to set up shop, and while Canggu won’t provide a particularly authentic experience of Bali, you’ll be guaranteed a good time. Feast at Pererenan before bedding down at Nirjhara, a tucked-away boutique hotel located in tranquil Tabanan, just 30 minutes from town – but secluded enough to feel like you’re a world away – before looping back into Canggu for hedonistic discoes on the beach.
Meanwhile, nature lovers and wellness junkies should head further north to Ubud – after marvelling at the multitude of Hindu temples, check into spectacular COMO Shambhala Estate. This luxe spa hideaway soars high above a rainforest-clad valley, and is well placed for entirely switching off, along with roaming nearby rice paddies, white water rafting down the mighty Ayung River, and sunrise treks to Mount Batur. For an uber remote stay, wake up among the wildlife at Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape, where a clutch of no-doors villas allow guests to be entirely at one with nature. Lastly, loop back to the southern tip of the island for Uluwatu’s heart-stopping scenery and endless beaches. Six Senses’ waterfront outpost beckons with its ultra-luxe offering: think private villas perched along the cliffside.
The best island for relaxation
If you’re in search of a fly-and-flop holiday, skip Bali in favour of Lombok. This toned-down island is a sleepier version of Bali, boasting unsullied beaches and dramatic landscapes, where buzzy cafes are eschewed in favour of old-fashioned peace and quiet. The island is generally more budget-friendly, and located just a short boat ride (or flight) away from Bali; leisurely days are spent hiking to waterfalls, sun-worshipping along the island’s sandy shores, and feasting on traditional Indonesian fare at local warungs – all set against a backdrop of smouldering volcanoes and lush rainforest. For no-holds-barred luxury and impeccable service, check into The Oberoi Beach Resort, where airy, thatched villas are perched among swaying palms along the pristine beach.
The best islands for loved-up couples
Hugging the coastline of Lombok, The Gili Islands are a trio of untouched and entirely motor-free isles. Encircled by sugary-white beaches and colourful reefs, snorkelling and diving are the best way to explore the coastline here, before guzzling up fresh seafood along the beach. Honeymooners should prioritise tranquil Gili Meno and Gili Air (as opposed to backpacker favourite Gili Trawangan), bedding down in stripped-back eco-villas (there are no big resorts or hotel chains here).
The best island for surfing
In stark contrast to well-trodden Bali, Sumba is a sprawling wilderness that remains relatively undiscovered, and where ancestral Marapu traditions still carry weight. The island is twice the size of Bali (and just an hour’s flight away), yet has less than a sixth of the population, and remains fairly undeveloped. Brunch cafes and beach clubs give way to dusty roads, local markets, and pointed, traditional Sumbanese rooftops set amid thick, tropical tangle. NIHI Sumba, the island’s pioneering, ultra-luxe adventure pad is the go-to hotel for thrill seekers and keen surfers – horse riding along the sand, cresting the waves at the hotel’s swooping, 2.5 kilometre-long beach, and pampering ‘spa safaris’ at its award-winning spa are just some of the highlights that you’ll experience at this one-of-a-kind wonderland. Meanwhile, a smattering of new hotel openings in recent years signal renewed interest in Sumba, with contemporary, coral-ringed Cap Karoso situated along the island’s eastern tip.
The best island for spotting wildlife
Best known for its namesake reptile, Komodo is the ideal island for nature lovers to explore. The elusive Komodo dragon is native only to a small cluster of Indonesian isles, and thanks to its waning population, can be somewhat difficult to spy – however, dolphins, turtles, and spectacular scenery, from colourful reefs to winding river canyons, are also a given here: it’s no wonder that Komodo National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sail aboard a luxury yacht, which is the best way to explore the island’s best diving spots: vessels captained by Amandira and Vela are expertly chartered through Komodo’s enchanting waters, and guarantee the ultimate waterborne adventure.
