Indonesia is a country of stunning natural beauty, boasting some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From the vibrant coral reefs to turquoise waters and beautiful beaches of Bali to the secluded scenic islands of Lombok, Indonesia has something for everyone. But beyond Bali, many other beautiful seaside destinations in Indonesia are worth exploring. From the lush green forests and tranquil islands of Kalimantan to the pristine beaches and hidden coves of Sulawesi, here are ten of the best beach destinations in Indonesia that you should visit.
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Tanjung Gelam Beach, Karimunjawa
Tanjung Gelam Beach is located on the westernmost tip of Karimunjawa island, with clean white sands and palm trees. Its location makes it a perfect destination for sunset watching. Visitors enjoy panoramic sea views, soothing breezes, and swimming in bluish-green waters. There are plenty of food stalls to try Indonesian seafood and breathtaking activities to make the most of your trip.
Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida
Kelingking is a small beach on Nusa Penida island, one of the best Indonesian snorkeling islands, a few kilometers from Bali. It is famous for the Kelingking cliff in the ocean, also nicknamed T-rex Bay for its unique rock formation resembling the backbone of a dinosaur. The ridge offers breathtaking sea views; visitors often capture the most Instagrammable photographs. Visitors enjoy the white sand and blue waves, and experienced swimmers can swim along the shore. The Kelingking cave on the island provides shade on hot months and stunning photographs.
Koka Beach, Flores
Koka Beach is a hidden gem in Flores that gives visitors an unforgettable experience. From powdery white sands, crystal clear waters, and a backdrop of palm trees in between, it’s no doubt Koka Beach is one of the top seaside destinations in Indonesia. Two vast cliffs separate the beach into two coves and offer stunning sea views. Visitors can try local foods in restaurants, enjoy the refreshing beach breeze, or camp at the beach.
Pangandaran Beach, West Java
Pangandaran Beach is one of West Java’s best-kept secrets on a peninsula on the Southwest coast a few kilometers from Ciamis. It blends white and black sands, calming waves, and spectacular sunsets. Although it was once a fishing destination, it’s now one of the best tourist destinations in Indonesia. It has two beautiful beaches, the east and the west, and plenty of mind-blowing activities for a fulfilling vacation.
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Belitung Island
Belitung is a pair of islands on the east coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, in the Java Sea. It is known for spectacular natural attractions, including granite boulders, and 100 small islands surround it. The most striking island is Lengkuas, the site of the 19th-century antique lighthouse. Belitung is recognized as a UNESCO geopark due to its picturesque sandy beaches and beautiful sceneries. Visitors can get to the island by air or ferry and through the island on rented scooters, cars, or taxis.
Raja Ampat Islands
Raja Ampat Islands is an archipelago on the northwest tip of Bird’s Head peninsula in southwest Papua province, Indonesia. It has over 1,500 small islands and cays, but the four main islands include Misool, Waigeo, Batanta, and Selawati. The islands are a popular destination for underwater lovers for their diverse marine life, with over 500 corals, more than 1,000 coral fish, and 700 Mollusks. Careful divers can spot Tuna, giant travailers, snappers, batfish, Barracudas, and Pygmy seahorses. The island also has thick jungles, clear skies, and blue waters, providing relaxing getaways for all travelers.
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Pink Beach, Komodo Island
Komodo Island is one of the most scenic islands in Indonesia, a part of the lesser Sunda Chain of Islands and Komodo National Park. It’s home to the Komodo dragon, the biggest lizard on earth, and the spectacular pink beach. Pink Beach is one of Indonesia’s most stunning beaches that gets color from the red shells of tiny coral insects that mix with white sand. Visitors can reach the island by boat from Labuan Bajo and enjoy the bluish waters and breathtaking views.
Bintan Island
Bintan Island is one of the exotic seaside destinations in Indonesia and one of the largest of around 3,000 islands in the Riau archipelago. It’s also a world-class sporting tourism destination, hosting marathons, triathlons, and extreme sports. There are many destinations in Bintan for visitors to explore, including the historic Penyengat Island and the beautiful Trikola Island, with crystal clear waters and pristine sandy beaches. They can also learn about the island’s history and culture and taste local foods in Tanjung Pinang.
Nongsa Beach, Batam
Nongsa is a beach in Riau islands Indonesia with pristine white sands and calm waves ideal for relaxing and a breathtaking getaway. Visitors can unwind in the lush green forests, blue seafront underwater sceneries, and cycling tracks. It offers panoramic views of Singapore from the shore, world-class golfing resorts, and plenty of exciting activities for all travelers.
Kei Island
Kei is a group of islands in the southeastern part of Maluku islands, Maluku province, popularly known for powdered sandy beaches, including Pasir Panjang, NgurSanandan, and Ngurtavur, and secluded caves with ancient paintings. Visitors can watch the sunrise and sunset from Masbait Hill in Kelanit village, visit the famous Hawang cave, and explore Bair Island and the ancient Luvat cave.