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| White sand beach with clear blue water and small fishing boats at Karimunjawa Island. |
Escape the crowds and discover Indonesia’s best-kept secrets with crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and local culture untouched by mass touris.
While Bali draws millions of international visitors each year, Indonesia is home to over 17,000 islands – most of which remain unexplored by global travelers. These hidden gems offer a more authentic experience, pristine nature, and the chance to connect with local communities that have preserved their traditions for centuries.
In this guide, we’ll take you to 10 incredible islands that you won’t find in mainstream travel brochures – each with its own unique charm, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable adventures.
Fun Fact: One of these islands is home to the world’s only marine lake where jellyfish have lost their sting.
1. PULAU KARIMUNJAWA (JAWA TENGAH)
Location: 80 km north of Jepara, Central Java
Why It’s Amazing: Often called "the hidden Bali of Java", Karimunjawa has turquoise waters, coral reefs teeming with marine life, and dense tropical forests. Unlike more popular destinations, it’s still quiet even during peak season. You can hike to the top of Mount Api for panoramic views of the entire archipelago or snorkel at Menjangan Kecil Island to see sea turtles and colorful fish.
Travel Tips: Take a ferry from Jepara (3 hours) or a short flight from Semarang. Best time to visit: April to October. Stay at local homestays for an authentic experience
2. PULAU KOMODO KECIL (NUSA TENGGARA TIMUR)
Location: Part of Komodo National Park, East Nusa Tenggar
Why It’s Amazing: While nearby Rinca and Komodo Islands are famous for dragons, Pulau Komodo Kecil is known for its stunning pink sand beach – formed by crushed red coral mixing with white sand. The island also has excellent diving spots where you can swim with manta rays and reef sharks. No Komodos live here, so it’s perfect for a peaceful beach day
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| Pink sand beach with turquoise water at Pulau Komodo Kecil |
Travel Tips: Reach via boat tour from Labuan Bajo. Book tours with local operators who follow sustainable tourism guidelines.
3. PULAU CENDERAWASIH (PAPUA BARAT
Location: In Cenderawasih Bay, West Papua.
Why It’s Amazing: This island is a paradise for divers and wildlife lovers. It’s one of the best places in the world to swim with whale sharks – gentle giants that visit the bay year-round. The underwater landscape features massive coral walls and unique marine species found nowhere else on Earth. On land, you can visit local villages to learn about traditional Papuan culture.
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Whale shark swimming near the coast of Pulau Cenderawasi |
4. PULAU WAKATOBI (SULAWESI TENGGARA
Location: Southeast Sulawesi.
Why It’s Amazing: Wakatobi is an acronym for Wanci, Kaledupa, Tomia, and Binongko islands – and it’s home to the second-largest coral reef system in the world. With over 900 species of coral (75% of all known coral species globally), it’s a dream for underwater photographers. The local Bugis community still practices traditional sailing and fishing methods
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| Colorful coral reef and tropical fish at Wakatobi National Park |
Travel Tips: Fly to Kendari then take a domestic flight to Wangi-Wangi. Stay at eco-resorts that support local conservation efforts
5. PULAU MOOREA (MALUKU)
Location: Banda Sea, Maluku Provinci.
Why It’s Amazing: This small island is famous for its marine lake – where millions of golden jellyfish have lost their ability to sting over time. You can swim freely among thousands of these gentle creatures! The island also has white sand beaches and coconut groves, with only a few local families living here
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| Swimmers with golden jellyfish in Pulau Moorea’s marine lake |
Travel Tips: Reach via boat from Ambon. Visit the lake early in the morning when jellyfish are most active.
6. PULAU BALI BARAT (JAWA BARAT)
Location: West Java, near Pangandara
Why It’s Amazing: Not to be confused with Bali Island, Bali Barat (West Bali Island) is a quiet spot with black sand beaches, waterfalls, and dense rainforests. It’s home to the rare Javan langur monkey and green sea turtles that nest on its beaches. The island has no large resorts – only small guesthouses run by locals
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Black sand beach and rainforest backdrop at Pulau Bali Barat |
Travel Tips: Take a ferry from Pangandaran (15 minutes). Best time to visit: May to September
7. PULAU SANGIHE (SULAWESI UTARA)
Location: North Sulawesi, near the Philippines borde
Why It’s Amazing: Sangihe is part of a volcanic archipelago with stunning mountain views, hot springs, and unique flora and fauna. It’s one of the few places where you can see the rare Talaud kingfisher and Sangihe hanging parrot. The island also has great diving spots with volcanic underwater formations.
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| Volcanic mountain and coastal landscape at Pulau Sangihe |
Travel Tips: Fly to Manado then take a small plane to Sangihe. Try local dishes like ikan bakar (grilled fish) with spicy coconut sauce.
8. PULAU BAWEAN (JAWA TIMUR)
Location: Java Sea, East Java.
Why It’s Amazing: Known as "the island of deer", Bawean is home to the endangered Bawean deer – found only here. The island has rolling hills, freshwater lakes, and traditional villages where locals still wear handmade clothing. You can hike to the top of Mount Kasuari for views of the entire island and surrounding sea
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| Endangered Bawean deer in their natural habitat on Pulau Bawean. |
Travel Tips: Take a ferry from Gresik or Surabaya (6 hours). Visit during the annual Kampung Adat festival to see traditional dances
9. PULAU KEPULAUAN SERIBU (DKI JAKARTA)
Location: 40 km north of Jakarta.
Why It’s Amazing: While some islands in the Thousand Islands are crowded, Pulau Pari and Pulau Pramuka offer a peaceful escape. You can go kayaking through mangrove forests, visit sea turtle conservation centers, and eat fresh seafood at local warungs. It’s the perfect weekend getaway from Jakarta – but still little-known to international travelers
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| Mangrove forest and clear water at Pulau Pari, Kepulauan Seribu |
Travel Tips: Take a speedboat from Muara Angke port (1-2 hours). Avoid weekends if you want a quiet visit.
10. PULAU SUMBA (NUSA TENGGARA TIMUR)
Location: East Nusa Tenggara, west of Flore
Why It’s Amazing: Sumba is known for its traditional megalithic tombs, vibrant woven fabrics, and stunning beaches like Walakiri – where white sand stretches for kilometers. The island has a unique culture with traditional ceremonies that are still practiced regularly. You can also surf at some of the best breaks in Indonesia
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| Traditional Sumba village with megalithic tombs. |
Travel Tips: Fly to Tambolaka or Waingapu. Visit during the Pasola festival (March-April) for an unforgettable cultural experience
PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR VISITOR
How to Get Ther
- International Flights: Fly to Jakarta, Bali, Manado, or Ambon – then take domestic flights or boats to the islands
- Boat Travel: Most islands are accessible via local ferries or private boat tours. Book with licensed operators for safety
- Visa Requirements: Many nationalities get a visa on arrival (30 days) or can enter visa-free for up to 30 days. Check the latest rules before traveling.
Estimated Costs (Per Person Per Day)
- Budget Travel: $20-$30 USD (IDR 300,000-$450,000) – includes homestay, local food, and public transport
- Mid-Range Travel: $50-$80 USD (IDR 750,000-$1,200,000) – includes small resorts, private transport, and guided tours.
Important Things to Remembe
- Respect local cultures and traditions – ask permission before taking photos of people or sacred sites.
- Bring reusable water bottles and avoid single-use plastics to protect the environmen.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral reefs
- Check weather conditions before traveling – some islands are inaccessible during rainy season (November to March).
FINAL THOUGHT
Indonesia’s hidden islands offer more than just beautiful beaches – they’re places where you can connect with nature, learn about unique cultures, and make memories that will last a lifetime. By choosing these less-visited destinations, you’re also helping to support local communities and promote sustainable tourism.
Have you visited any of these hidden islands? Share your story and photos in the comments below – and don’t forget to check out our guide on "Sustainable Tourism in Raja Ampat – How Visitors Are Helping Protect Paradise" for more amazing Indonesian destinations.
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| Map of Indonesia showing the location of all 10 hidden islands featured in this article. https://www.badar.co.id/2026/02/10-hidden-islands-in-indonesia-youve.html |
