Indonesian islands

Indonesia is an island nation famous for its breathtaking natural landscapes, from pristine white-sand beaches and lush jungles to dramatic volcanoes and vibrant coral reefs. With over 17,000 islands, it’s a true paradise for beach lovers, culture seekers, and adventure travelers alike. If you’re planning a trip to explore the beautiful Indonesian islands, don’t miss the standout destinations below – from the energy of Bali to the untouched wonders of Raja Ampat.

Bali island

Bali is Indonesia’s most iconic island, often called the “Island of the Gods” for its breathtaking beauty, rich Hindu culture, and spiritual energy. It’s a dream destination for travelers seeking a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural depth.

What makes Bali truly special is its diversity of attractions. From the lively beaches of Kuta and Seminyak, to the serene rice terraces of Ubud, and the sacred temples like Tanah Lot and Uluwatu, the island offers something for everyone. Luxurious resorts, wellness retreats, and a vibrant culinary scene add to the island’s irresistible charm.

Visitors to Bali can enjoy a wide range of activities, including:

• Surfing at Canggu or Uluwatu
• Yoga and meditation in the lush hills of Ubud
• Exploring waterfalls, volcanoes, and artisan villages
• Island hopping to nearby Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan
• Tasting local dishes like satay, nasi goreng, and babi guling

Lombok island

Just a short ferry or flight from Bali, Lombok offers a more tranquil and untouched alternative for travelers seeking natural beauty without the crowds. With its pristine beaches, dramatic mountains, and traditional Sasak culture, Lombok is ideal for those who want to slow down and truly connect with nature and local life.

One of Lombok’s main highlights is Mount Rinjani, Indonesia’s second-highest volcano, which attracts hikers from around the world with its challenging trails and stunning crater lake views. Meanwhile, the southern coast is home to some of Indonesia’s most beautiful yet uncrowded beaches, including Selong Belanak, Tanjung Aan, and Mawun.

In Lombok, visitors can:

• Hike Mount Rinjani for a multi-day trekking adventure.
• Relax on quiet white-sand beaches ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
• Explore traditional Sasak villages and local markets.
• Surf beginner-friendly waves in Kuta Lombok or advanced breaks in Gerupuk.
• Take day trips to the nearby Gili Islands for snorkeling and diving.

Sumba island

Located in East Nusa Tenggara, Sumba is one of Indonesia’s most unique and culturally rich islands, known for its rugged landscapes, traditional villages, and untouched beaches. Far less commercialized than Bali or Lombok, Sumba offers a raw, off-the-beaten-path experience for travelers seeking authenticity and solitude.

What makes Sumba special is its strong connection to ancient traditions. Visitors can explore hilltop villages with stone tombs and towering ancestral houses, where the indigenous Marapu belief system is still practiced. The island is also home to the Pasola festival, a dramatic ritual horseback battle that draws visitors from around the world.

In Sumba, visitors can:

• Visit traditional villages and learn about the Marapu culture.
• Swim in crystal-clear lagoons and discover hidden waterfalls.
• Explore vast open landscapes on horseback or by motorbike.
• Witness the Pasola festival (seasonal) and other cultural rituals.
• Unwind at exclusive beachfront eco-resorts.

Flores island

Flores, part of East Nusa Tenggara, is one of Indonesia’s most captivating islands, blending dramatic landscapes, unique cultures, and access to some of the country’s most iconic natural wonders. Often overshadowed by its famous neighbor Bali, Flores is a rising star for travelers looking for authenticity, adventure, and raw beauty.

The island is best known as the gateway to the Komodo National Park, home to the legendary Komodo dragons and stunning destinations like Padar Island and Pink Beach. But beyond Komodo, Flores itself offers a rich tapestry of experiences – color-changing crater lakes at Mount Kelimutu, scenic highlands, traditional villages, and some of the best diving and snorkeling spots in Indonesia.

In Flores, visitors can:

• Take a boat trip to Komodo Island to see the Komodo dragons up close.
• Hike to the summit of Mount Kelimutu and witness its tri-colored crater lakes.
• Visit traditional villages like Bena and Wae Rebo to learn about indigenous cultures.
• Explore hidden beaches, waterfalls, and mountain landscapes.
• Dive or snorkel around Maumere or Labuan Bajo, known for rich marine biodiversity.

Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat is a remote island region in West Papua, Indonesia, known as one of the most untouched and biodiverse marine environments on Earth. With turquoise waters, limestone islands, and coral reefs teeming with life, Raja Ampat offers a rare kind of beauty that feels both ancient and otherworldly.

The archipelago includes four main islands – Waigeo, Misool, Salawati, and Batanta – along with hundreds of smaller islets like Wayag and Piaynemo, famous for their panoramic viewpoints. Visitors come here to dive, snorkel, kayak, and explore hidden lagoons, but also to disconnect and experience nature at its purest. Raja Ampat isn’t just a destination – it’s a journey into a truly untouched corner of Indonesia.

In Raja Ampat, visitors can:

• Dive or snorkel in some of the most biodiverse waters on the planet.
• Climb limestone hills in Wayag or Piaynemo for panoramic island views.
• Kayak through crystal-clear lagoons and narrow karst channels.
• Visit remote villages and experience Papuan culture and hospitality.
• Stay at eco-resorts in Misool or homestays on islands like Kri or Arborek.

Mentawai islands

The Mentawai Islands, off the west coast of Sumatra, are a remote tropical paradise famed for their world-class surf breaks and untouched natural beauty. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and dense rainforest, these islands have become a bucket-list destination for surfers seeking adventure off the grid.

Beyond the waves, Mentawai offers a rare glimpse into the traditional way of life of the indigenous Mentawai people – known for their ancestral customs, distinctive tattoos, and deep connection to nature. It’s a place where modern tourism meets ancient culture, all set against a backdrop of raw island wilderness.

In the Mentawai Islands, visitors can:

• Surf legendary waves at spots like Lance’s Right, Macaronis, and Telescopes.
• Stay in surf camps or on boat charters designed for wave-chasing adventures.
• Visit Mentawai villages and learn about indigenous traditions and tattoo art.
• Trek through rainforests and discover the islands’ tropical wildlife.
• Unplug completely and enjoy a slow, nature-focused escape.

Nusa Penida island

Just a short boat ride from Bali, Nusa Penida Island offers a striking contrast to its famous neighbor with dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and raw, untouched landscapes. Once relatively unknown, the island has quickly become a favorite among photographers and adventure seekers thanks to its jaw-dropping coastal views and remote feel.

Despite its growing popularity, Nusa Penida still feels wild and rugged. Roads wind through steep hills, leading to iconic natural landmarks like Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, and Angel’s Billabong. The island also offers vibrant marine life, quiet temples, and a more authentic, slower-paced side of Balinese culture.

In Nusa Penida, visitors can:

• Hike down to the famous Kelingking Beach for postcard-worthy views.
• Swim in natural infinity pools like Angel’s Billabong or visit Broken Beach.
• Snorkel or dive with manta rays at Manta Point and Crystal Bay.
• Explore hidden temples such as Goa Giri Putri or Pura Paluang.
• Rent a scooter and ride along the island’s rugged coastlines.

Java island

Java Island is the most populous and politically significant island in Indonesia, home to the bustling capital Jakarta, the cultural hub Yogyakarta, and the majestic Mount Bromo. It’s a land of contrasts – where ancient temples rise beside volcanoes, and modern cities coexist with timeless traditions.

Beyond its urban centers, Java is rich in heritage and natural beauty. From the UNESCO-listed Borobudur and Prambanan temples to misty highlands and lush tea plantations, the island offers deep cultural immersion alongside spectacular scenery.

In Java, visitors can:

• Explore Borobudur and Prambanan, two of Southeast Asia’s most iconic ancient temples.
• Watch the sunrise over the otherworldly landscape of Mount Bromo.
• Experience Javanese arts and traditions in Yogyakarta and Solo.
• Visit coffee farms and tea estates in the highlands of West or Central Java.
• Wander through colonial-era neighborhoods in Jakarta or Bandung.

Sulawesi Island

Sulawesi Island, with its distinctive shape of curling peninsulas, is one of Indonesia’s most geographically and culturally complex regions. Located between Borneo and the Maluku Islands, Sulawesi is a land of dramatic contrasts—towering mountains, hidden lakes, pristine coastlines, and rich cultural diversity.

What makes Sulawesi truly unforgettable is its unique blend of nature and tradition. The highlands of Tana Toraja are famous for elaborate funeral rites and cliffside graves, while coastal regions like Bunaken and Wakatobi offer some of the world’s best diving spots. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion or marine adventures, Sulawesi delivers a travel experience that feels both raw and deeply personal.

In Sulawesi, visitors can:

• Witness traditional Torajan ceremonies and visit ancestral villages in Tana Toraja.
• Dive or snorkel in world-class marine parks like Bunaken and Wakatobi.
• Explore volcanic highlands, crater lakes, and remote forest trails.
• Discover endemic wildlife like the tarsier or anoa in the island’s jungles.
• Visit diverse cities like Makassar and Manado, rich in local flavor and history.

Bunaken Islands

The Bunaken Islands, located just off the coast of Manado in North Sulawesi, are part of the Bunaken National Marine Park – one of Indonesia’s most renowned diving destinations. Known for its steep coral walls, crystal-clear waters, and rich biodiversity, this marine paradise attracts divers and snorkelers from around the world.

What sets Bunaken apart is the sheer abundance of marine life. With over 70% of all known coral species found here, the underwater scenery is nothing short of spectacular. Despite its fame among diving enthusiasts, the islands remain quiet and laid-back, offering a peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of nearby volcanic mountains.

In the Bunaken Islands, visitors can:

• Dive along dramatic coral walls filled with turtles, reef sharks, and vibrant reef fish.
• Snorkel directly off the beach in warm, clear waters.
• Take a boat tour around the five main islands of the marine park.
• Stay in eco-resorts and connect with friendly local communities.
• Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Manado Tua rising above the sea.

Indonesia’s islands are incredibly diverse – each one offering its own mix of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and natural beauty. From lively Bali to untouched Raja Ampat, these islands invite you to relax, explore, and experience the authentic spirit of Southeast Asia.

Ready to discover the best of Indonesia? Let Style Travel take you there. We specialize in flexible, all-inclusive tours tailored to your needs – from luxury getaways in Bali to wild adventures in Komodo and diving trips in Raja Ampat. With expert planning and a dedicated team, your journey will be safe, smooth, and unforgettable.