Here are some of the most beautiful islands to visit in Indonesia—a visit that will forever transform your life.

Indonesia is the world’s biggest archipelago, with 18,000 total islands, of which over 3,000 are inhabited. You can visit these incredible islands throughout the year. If Indonesia is at the top of your bucket list and you are seriously considering a trip, we recommend you choose a luxury Indonesian cruise. Cruising offers the best experience when visiting a country that is a union of many scattered lands, all equally unique and worth visiting. Small vessels can take you to the most remote parts of the archipelago, allowing for a safe and incredible adventure. In this article, we share some of the most beautiful islands to visit in Indonesia. We narrowed down the choice to some of the most famous and worth visiting for their endemic wildlife, sandy beaches, culture, and tradition that will forever transform your life. 

Bali 

Bali is by far the most popular and well-known Indonesian island. Bali is heaven on earth and the perfect romantic getaway for couples who want privacy but remain close to people and the modern world. The island is the perfect combination that offers a balance between the two. Or, if you’re a group of friends looking for some fun, Bali is also an ideal getaway. 

Bali is our top pick for the most beautiful islands to visit in Indonesia.

There are tons of things that you can do while you’re in Bali. For starters, you can relax on the white sand beaches, with the ocean in front of you. You can swim, dive, snorkel, explore wildlife, or even become a yoga teacher. There are also some fantastic hiking trails with lots of hidden spots to take a break and relax. Expect the island to be crowded because Bali is on everyone’s travel bucket list. But it is our first recommendation to visit one of the most beautiful islands in Indonesia.

Spice Islands 

Also known as the Maluku Islands, the Spice Islands were initially the only place to find nutmeg, mace, and clove. Although times have changed, and you can find those spices in your local markets, the name remains. The most unique island in the Spice Islands is Ternate, a tiny island but a true gem, and our recommendation for one of the most beautiful islands to visit in Indonesia. 

There are some incredible sights worth your time there. Since Ternate was once a place where spices were traded, several fortresses are now partially turned into ruins. For all the history lovers out there, this is the right place for you. Of course, the island has some excellent beaches, and you can relax after a day filled with sightseeing. 

Fort Tolukko in the island Ternate, Maluku, Indonesia. Photo by Oliver Biallawons via iStock by Getty Images

Lombok 

Some describe Lombok as Bali’s smaller sister. The island is smaller, but its beauty is on the same level. If you want to experience everything you usually would in Bali—but without the crowds and the higher prices—then Lombok is the right place for you. It has many beaches and intimate areas, making it the perfect romantic getaway spot, but it also has many other activities. 

For all the adrenaline lovers out there, Lombok has Kuta Beach. It is a beautiful, sandy beach that attracts surfers from all around the world. The waves are enormous, and you can improve your surfing skills while having tons of fun. 

Komodo Island

Two things make Komodo Island different from every other island in the archipelago. The first is the komodo dragon, which lives on Komodo Island in its natural habitat, hence the name. 

The second thing that makes the island unique is the excellent and breathtaking sea life. The island is well protected by law, but you can dive and see all the different species of fish and varieties of coral reefs. You’ll want to give yourself time to explore the abundant sea life there. It is truly mesmerizing.

Underwater life in Indonesia is filled with vibrant colors and an explosion of diversity. Photo by Blue Wonders via iStock by Getty Images

The Gili Islands 

Lastly, the Gili Islands are on our list of the most beautiful islands in Indonesia. This group of three islands is close to each other but still unique in their own way. If you plan your day well, you can visit them all in one day and spend a fair amount of time. The islands are Gili Air, Gili Trawangan, and Gili Meno.

Gili Island, Indonesia, offers beautiful and clear water. Mount Rinjani is on the horizon. Photo by Christopher Moswitzer via iStock by Getty Images

Gili Trawangan is the perfect spot for adrenaline seekers, and lots of divers and snorkelers visit the place to explore the underwater life there. Gili Meno is the ideal spot for a romantic getaway, offering peace, quiet, and some romantic spots. The last one, Gili Air, is especially popular for its rich nightlife. If you want to end your trip with a nice party or want to dance the night away, this is the place for you.

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