Been to Bali? Here Are 5 Incredible Indonesian Islands to Visit Next! 

We all know and love Bali, but there’s so much more to Indonesia than the Island Of The Gods. In fact, some of the country’s most memorable travel experiences can be found far beyond Bali’s beaches.

The tricky part? With thousands of Indonesian islands to choose from, where do you even start? We’ve narrowed it down to five very different islands that are well worth adding to your Indonesia travel list – whether you’re looking for your next beach escape, a taste of traditional island life or an adventure you’ll be talking about long after you get home.

Quick Answer: Which Indonesian Island Should You Visit?

The best Indonesian island to visit beyond Bali depends on what kind of holiday you’re looking for. Choose Lombok for beautiful beaches, surfing and adventure; Flores for Komodo dragons, island-hopping and spectacular scenery; Sumba for traditional culture and wild, untouched landscapes; Rote for uncrowded beaches, more surfing and a slower pace of island life; or Bintan for an easy tropical getaway that can be combined with a trip to Singapore.

Here’s our quick guide to help you decide:

Visit Sumba if you want: Culture, dramatic scenery and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Visit Lombok if you want: Picture-perfect beaches, surfing and adventure without travelling too far beyond Bali.

Visit Flores if you want: Komodo dragons, island-hopping and spectacular natural scenery.

Visit Rote if you want: Remote beaches and a slow island life that’s far removed from Indonesia’s busier tourist destinations.

Visit Bintan if you want: A hassle-free tropical getaway that combines perfectly with a trip to Singapore.

Special mention: If an entire private resort on a tropical island sounds more like your thing, you need to check out Bawah Reserve in Indonesia’s Riau Islands. With turquoise lagoons, pristine beaches and seriously dreamy castaway vibes, this is the ultimate archipelago escape!

1) SUMBA: Best for Culture & Wild Landscapes

If you’re looking for an Indonesian island that feels genuinely different, put Sumba on your radar. Think traditional villages, ancient megalithic tombs, unique handwoven textiles, rolling savannah and spectacular beaches all wrapped up in an island with a strong cultural identity. 

What Is Sumba Famous For?

Sumba is famous for its traditions, historic villages and tombs, ikat weaving, wild horses and dramatic panoramas.

Here are a few things that make Sumba particularly special:

• Pasola festival: A traditional horseback spear-fighting festival held around February and March, rooted in Sumbanese cultural and agricultural practices.
• Traditional villages: Distinctive peaked-roof houses are still part of everyday life in communities such as Ratenggaro and are well worth a visit.
• Ikat weaving: Beautiful handwoven textiles feature motifs inspired by Sumbanese beliefs, animals, and daily life, with important social and cultural significance.
• Wild horses: Sumba’s horses are an iconic part of the island’s landscape and culture, and watching them frolic in the wild really is magical.
• Wild landscapes: Think rolling hills, golden savannah, rugged coastlines, turquoise lagoons and waterfalls. Click here to discover Sumba’s most stunning waterfalls!

Why Should You Visit Sumba?

Visit Sumba for a taste of Indonesia that feels worlds away from the usual tourist trail. This is the place for travellers who’d rather explore traditional villages and off-the-beaten-track spots than spend their holiday hopping between beach clubs.

Don’t miss:

• Ratenggaro Village – traditional houses and megalithic tombs near the coast
• Weekuri Lagoon – crystal-clear turquoise water surrounded by dramatic scenery
• Bawana Beach – famous for its spectacular natural rock arch
• Mandorak Beach – a tiny, picture-perfect cove framed by cliffs
• Occy’s Left – one of the world’s most sought-after private surf breaks at NIHI Sumba

The other big draw? Sumba feels like a proper adventure. Tourism is much less developed than on Indonesia’s better-known islands, meaning fewer crowds, fewer tourist facilities and plenty of opportunities to get out and explore its wild side.

Click here for our roundup of Sumba’s top beaches and cultural hotspots that absolutely need to be on your itinerary!

How Do You Get to Sumba from Bali?

The easiest way to reach Sumba is by plane from Bali, with direct flights to two airports on the island:

• Lede Kalumbang Airport (TMC) – formerly Tambolaka Airport, and the main gateway to West Sumba
• Umbu Mehang Kunda Airport (WGP) – the main entry point for East Sumba

Our tip: If you want to explore the whole island, consider flying into one airport and out of the other. It saves you from having to backtrack across Sumba.

Fancy a proper Sumba adventure? Check out our 5-day/4-night itinerary here!

How Do You Get to Sumba from Outside Indonesia?

There are currently no international flights directly to Sumba, so international travellers will need to connect through another Indonesian airport.

For most travellers, Bali is the easiest gateway. Fly into Denpasar, then connect to either Tambolaka or Waingapu.

You can also transit through other Indonesian cities, including Kupang, which has domestic flights to both sides of Sumba. And if you’re exploring more of eastern Indonesia, a direct Labuan Bajo–Tambolaka service makes combining Flores and Sumba easier.

Before You Go: Sumba

Sumba isn’t Bali – and that’s exactly the point! Come prepared for a slower, more adventurous style of travel.

• Getting around: The island is large, and journeys can take longer than expected. Renting a car with a local driver is the easiest way to explore.
• Allow enough time: If you want to see both West and East Sumba, don’t try to squeeze it into a couple of days.
• Expect basic infrastructure: Roads and facilities can be limited outside the main tourist areas.
• Respect local customs: Dress appropriately and ask before photographing people, ceremonies or sacred sites.
• Come for the adventure: Sumba is about culture, nature and getting off the beaten track.

Where Should You Stay in Sumba? 

• For an authentic Sumba stay that genuinely gives back to the community, we recommend the Sumba Hospitality Foundation. Read the review of our stay right here!
• Fancy spoiling yourself with total luxe indulgence? NIHI Sumba was ranked #10 in the world and #1 in Indonesia in The World’s Best 50 Hotels. Discover what it’s like to stay at one of the best resorts in the world!

Explore our Ultimate Guide to Sumba’s Best Resorts & Private Villas here!

2) LOMBOK: Best for Beaches & Adventure

If your idea of the perfect Indonesian escape involves a little bit of everything, Lombok is hard to beat. From world-class surf and beautiful beaches to tiny tropical islands, waterfalls, and the mighty Mount Rinjani, this West Nusa Tenggara island packs plenty of adventure into one top destination. 

What Is Lombok Famous For?

Lombok is famous for its strong Sasak culture, traditional villages, weaving and delicious food. The Sasak people are the indigenous ethnic group of Lombok, and their traditions remain an important part of everyday island life.

Here are a few things that make Lombok’s culture special:

• Sasak villages: Visit places such as Sade to see traditional houses and learn more about Sasak life and customs.
• Traditional weaving: Ikat and songket textiles are still traditionally produced and form an important part of Sasak culture.
• Muslim heritage: Lombok’s predominantly Muslim identity gives the island a distinctly different cultural character.
• Local food: Don’t leave without trying ayam taliwang, grilled chicken with a seriously spicy chilli sauce, and plecing kangkung. Tickle your taste buds and take a bite out of our top 10 must-try Lombok dishes!

Looking for fun things to do in Lombok? We’ve got the lowdown right here!

Why Should You Visit Lombok?

Visit Lombok for spectacular beaches, world-class surf, island-hopping and some seriously epic adventures.

Don’t miss:

• South Lombok beaches – Tanjung Aan, Mawun, Selong Belanak and Gerupuk are just a few of the stunning beaches around Kuta and Mandalika.
• Surfing – From beginner-friendly breaks to more challenging waves, Lombok has become a major destination for surfers. Check out the 7 best surf spots in Lombok for every skill level.
• The Gilis – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air are the best-known, but Lombok is actually surrounded by more than 20 small islands. Read our Gili Islands guide here!
• Mount Rinjani – At 3,726 metres, Indonesia’s second-highest volcano is one of the island’s biggest attractions. Multi-day treks lead through forests and volcanic landscapes to the spectacular Segara Anak crater lake. Find out more about Mount Rinjani here!
• Waterfalls & nature – Head inland to discover Lombok’s waterfalls, rice fields and lush mountain scenery. 

Whether you fancy catching a wave, hiking a volcano, exploring underwater or simply finding your own patch of paradise, Lombok makes it easy to mix adventure with plenty of downtime. Planning your trip? Check out our 5-day/4-night Lombok Itinerary here!

How Do You Get to Lombok from Bali?

The easiest way to get to Lombok from Bali is by plane or boat.

• Fly: Direct flights from Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) to Lombok International Airport (LOP) take around 30-minutes.
• Public ferry: Ferries run from Padangbai to Lembar, with the crossing taking around 4-5 hours.
• Fast boat: Services also operate from Bali to mainland Lombok and the Gili Islands, with journey times varying depending on your destination.

Our tip: Short on time? Fly. Want to make the journey part of the adventure? Hop on a fast boat – just check whether you’re heading to mainland Lombok or one of the Gilis before booking!

How Do You Get to Lombok from Outside Indonesia?

Lombok International Airport has direct international connections with Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, making it possible to reach the island without travelling through Bali. For Australian travellers, you’ll generally need to connect through another Indonesian or regional hub, depending on your departure city.

Already planning a Southeast Asian adventure? Singapore → Lombok makes a particularly easy combination for a tropical island escape.

Before You Go: Lombok

Lombok is a big island, so don’t try to squeeze everything into a couple of days!

• Choose your base carefully: Kuta and Mandalika are great for beaches and surfing, North Lombok puts you closer to Rinjani and its waterfalls, whilst the Gilis are all about island life. Not sure where to base yourself? We’ve got the low-down on the best areas in Lombok for every type of traveller.
• Allow enough time: Distances can look deceptively short on a map, and getting between different parts of the island can take time.
• Planning to climb Rinjani? This is a serious multi-day trek, not a casual hike. Prepare properly and always use an experienced trekking operator.
• Getting around: A scooter works well for confident riders, whilst hiring a car and driver is a more comfortable option for longer journeys.
• Look beyond the obvious: Lombok has plenty to offer away from its most famous beaches and the three main Gilis.

The best part? You can make Lombok whatever kind of island escape you fancy – adventurous, relaxing or a bit of both.

Where Should You Stay in Lombok?

• Fancy a little beachfront luxury? We recently stayed at Pullman Lombok Merujani Mandalika Beach Resort and loved it! Take a peek at our experience right here!
• Want to wake up by the beach? Novotel Lombok Resort & Villas is a gorgeous Kuta Lombok option for a laid-back island escape.

3) FLORES: Best for Komodo Dragons & Adventure

Flores is the kind of Indonesian island that rewards curious travellers. Yes, it’s the gateway to the legendary Komodo dragons, but there’s a whole lot more to discover beyond Labuan Bajo. With fascinating cultures, traditional villages, volcanic landscapes, colourful underwater worlds and some seriously memorable road trips, Flores is made for exploring! 

For the perfect blend of adventure and scenery, check out our 4-day, 3-night Labuan Bajo Itinerary right here!

What Is Flores Famous For?

Flores is famous for its incredible cultural diversity, traditional villages and several distinct ethnic groups, including the Manggarai, Ngada, Lio and Sikka, who call the island home, each with their own languages, customs and traditions.

Here are a few things that make Flores’ culture so fascinating:

• Komodo dragons: Flores is the gateway to Komodo National Park, home to the world’s largest lizards. Seeing these prehistoric-looking creatures in the wild is one of Indonesia’s most unforgettable wildlife experiences. 
• Traditional villages: From the distinctive houses of Bena in the Ngada highlands to the cone-shaped Mbaru Niang houses of Wae Rebo, Flores is full of fascinating communities to discover.
• Caci dance: This unique Manggarai performance combines dance, music and ceremonial whip fighting, and is an important part of cultural celebrations in western Flores. 
• Catholic heritage: Flores is predominantly Catholic, reflecting centuries of Portuguese influence, while traditional beliefs and ancestral customs remain an important part of community life.

It’s this mix of indigenous traditions, ancestral beliefs and Catholic heritage that gives Flores an identity all of its own.

Why Should You Visit Flores?

Visit Flores for Komodo dragons, spectacular scenery, island-hopping and an adventure that goes way beyond the beach.

Don’t miss:

• Komodo National Park – Get up close to the world’s largest lizards in their natural habitat, while exploring rugged islands and turquoise waters.
• Padar Island – Climb to the famous viewpoint for one of the most recognisable panoramas in Indonesia.
• Pink Beach – See the captivating pink-hued sand and snorkel in the colourful waters surrounding the island.
• Lake Kelimutu – Discover the famous three-coloured crater lakes high in the Flores mountains.
• Diving & snorkelling – The waters around Flores and Komodo National Park are packed with colourful coral and marine life.
• Island-hopping – Jump aboard a boat or book a liveaboard to explore the islands and reefs around Labuan Bajo.
• Traditional villages – Head inland to discover places such as Bena and Wae Rebo.
• The Trans-Flores Highway – Travel overland through mountains, rice fields, villages, and constantly changing landscapes.
• Labuan Bajo’s epic sunsets – These are some of the best in the archipelago, and we’ve got the top 8 places in Labuan Bajo with the most mesmerising golden hour backdrops right here!

Our tip: Don’t make Labuan Bajo your entire Flores adventure. The Komodo dragons may be the headline act, but the island itself is where you’ll find some of its most memorable experiences.

How Do You Get to Flores from Bali?

The easiest way to get to Flores from Bali is to fly to Labuan Bajo.

• Fly from Bali: Direct flights operate from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) to Komodo International Airport (LBJ).
• Flight time: Around 1 hour.
• Airport location: Komodo International Airport is just a 10-minute drive from the centre of Labuan Bajo.
• Exploring further east? Flores has several other airports, including Ende and Maumere, so choose your arrival point based on your itinerary.

Our tip: If Komodo dragons are at the top of your list, fly into Labuan Bajo. If you’re planning to explore Flores from west to east, look at flying into one airport and out of another to avoid unnecessary backtracking.

How Do You Get to Flores from Outside Indonesia?

There are currently no regular direct long-haul flights from Australia to Flores, so most international travellers will need to connect through another Indonesian or regional airport.

For Australian travellers, Bali or Jakarta are the easiest gateways, with domestic connections onwards to Labuan Bajo.

Already exploring eastern Indonesia? Flores can also be combined with neighbouring islands such as Lombok, Sumba and Timor, making it a great stop on a bigger Nusa Tenggara adventure.

Before You Go: Flores

Don’t underestimate Flores – this island is bigger, hillier and more adventurous than it looks on a map!

• Allow enough time: A few days around Labuan Bajo is enough for a Komodo trip, but give yourself at least a week if you want to explore more of Flores.
• Road trips take time: The Trans-Flores route winds through mountainous terrain, so journeys can be slow, but the scenery makes it worthwhile.
• Labuan Bajo isn’t all of Flores: The west is the most popular tourist area, but there’s a whole island waiting beyond it.
• Keep plans flexible: Outside the main tourist areas, infrastructure can be basic and transport options more limited.
• Respect local communities: Traditional villages are living communities, not tourist attractions. Dress appropriately, ask before taking photographs and consider hiring a local guide.

Where Should You Stay in Flores?

• Go all out with a little island luxury at AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach, an absolutely stunning beachfront resort just minutes from Labuan Bajo. 
• For a charming beachfront escape, Novotel Suites & Villas Komodo combines tropical surroundings with plenty of space to relax after a day of exploring. 

4) ROTE: Best for Remote Beaches & Escaping the Crowds

If you’re dreaming of an Indonesian island where the days move a little slower, Rote could be just the ticket. Sitting at the southern end of Indonesia, this dry, windswept island is known for spectacular beaches, world-class surf and a wonderfully chilled pace of life. 

What Is Rote Famous For?

Rote is famous for its distinctive culture, traditional crafts and strong connection to nature.

Here are a few things that make Rote particularly special:

• Sasando: This traditional stringed instrument is one of Rote’s most recognisable cultural symbols.
• Ti’i Langga: The unmistakable wide-brimmed hat, traditionally woven from lontar leaves, is closely associated with Rote’s cultural identity.
• Lontar palms: The island’s distinctive palms have long provided materials for everything from clothing and crafts to musical instruments.
• Surf culture: Rote has earned a reputation for world-class waves, with Nemberala and Bo’a attracting surfers from around the globe. The laid-back surf scene and uncrowded line-ups are a big part of Rote’s appeal. 

There’s no denying that Rote does things a little differently and is one of Indonesia’s best-kept secrets.

Why Should You Visit Rote?

Visit Rote for spectacular beaches, A-grade surf, crystal-clear waters and the chance to experience an Indonesian island far removed from the crowds.

Don’t miss:

• Nemberala – Rote’s famous surf hub, known for its world-class waves and long reef breaks. The main surf season generally runs from March to November, with the biggest swells typically arriving between May and September.
• Bo’a Beach – Another major surf spot, with beautiful white sand and powerful waves.
• Mulut Seribu – Meaning “Thousand Mouths”, this spectacular coastal area is a maze of clear waterways, small islands and mangroves best explored by local boat.
• Snorkelling & diving – Explore coral reefs and marine life around Rote and its neighbouring islands, including the waters around Ndao and Bull Rock.
• Rote’s beaches – Oeseli, Nemberala and Bo’a are just some of the spots to seek out when you’re ready to do absolutely nothing for a while.

And then there’s the biggest draw of all: space. Rote doesn’t have the endless stream of beach clubs, international chains and tourist attractions you’ll find on Indonesia’s better-known islands. Instead, you’ll find long stretches of coastline, small villages and plenty of room to slow down.

Discover the very best of this secluded spot with our 5-day, 4-night Rote Itinerary here!

How Do You Get to Rote from Bali?

The easiest way to get to Rote from Bali is to travel via Kupang, on the neighbouring island of Timor.

• Fly from Bali to Kupang: Take a domestic flight from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) to El Tari Airport (KOE) in Kupang.
• Fly from Kupang to Rote: David C. Saudale Airport (RTI) has direct domestic flights from Kupang, with the flight taking around 35-minutes.
• Take the fast ferry: Express Bahari currently operates between Tenau in Kupang and Rote, with the crossing taking around 2-hours.

How Do You Get to Rote from Outside Indonesia?

Rote doesn’t have international flights, so international travellers need to enter Indonesia elsewhere before travelling via Kupang.

For Australian travellers, the easiest option will usually be to fly into Bali, Jakarta or another Indonesian hub, then connect to Kupang before continuing to Rote. You can also make Rote part of a bigger Nusa Tenggara adventure, combining it with destinations such as Flores, Sumba or Timor.

The extra journey is part of what keeps Rote feeling so removed from Indonesia’s busier tourist destinations – you don’t just stumble across this island; you have to make the effort to get there.

Before You Go: Rote

Rote is remote, relaxed and relatively undeveloped, so come prepared to slow down rather than expect everything to be instantly convenient.

• Getting around: Driving apps like Grab and GoJek are not a thing here, so hiring a scooter or car with a local driver is the easiest way to explore beyond your accommodation.
• Don’t rush it: Roads and travel times can make getting between different parts of the island slower than expected, and watch out for animals on the road – especially cows!
• Think about the season: May to October is generally the best time for dry weather and surfing, while the main surf season can extend into November.
• Surfers should know: Many of Rote’s famous breaks are reef breaks, so some spots are best suited to more experienced surfers.
• Bring some cash: Facilities are very limited compared with Bali, and you shouldn’t expect ATMs, shops and restaurants on every corner.
• Pack your essentials: Convenience stores and pharmacies are sparse, so bring any medication, toiletries and other essentials you might need with you. 

And remember: Rote isn’t somewhere you come to be entertained 24/7. It’s somewhere you come to switch off, which is a massive part of its appeal.

Where Should You Stay in Rote?

• For a serious dose of island indulgence, NIHI Rote brings the famous NIHI experience to Rote, with a beautiful beachfront setting in Bo’a.
• For something more laid-back and local, Mick’s Place Rote offers a relaxed base near Nemberala and the island’s famous surf breaks.

5) BINTAN: Best for an Easy Island Escape from Singapore

Want an Indonesian island getaway without the complicated logistics? Put Bintan on your radar. Located in Indonesia’s Riau Islands, just across the water from Singapore, Bintan combines beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, tropical adventures and Malay culture – and the bonus is that you can get there by ferry in just 45-minutes. 

What Is Bintan Famous For?

Bintan is best known for its beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, golf courses and rich Malay heritage. So, whether you’re after 5-star relaxation or a little more local flavour, Bintan gives you both sides of island life. 

Here are a few things that make Bintan special:

• Bintan Resorts: The northern part of the island is home to a collection of beachfront resorts, spas, restaurants, golf courses and water sports facilities, making it a popular easy-breezy getaway from Singapore.
• Trikora Beach: Head away from the main resort area and you’ll find this stunning stretch of white sand, clear water and enormous granite boulders. It’s also popular for snorkelling and diving.
• Malay heritage: Bintan sits within the culturally rich Riau Islands, with strong Malay traditions and historic links to the wider Johor-Riau kingdom.
• Local villages: Visit places such as Senggarang to see the fascinating mix of Malay and Chinese heritage, or Sebung for local seafood and mangrove scenery.
• Golf: Bintan has become a major golf destination, with several designer courses overlooking its tropical landscapes.

Why Should You Visit Bintan?

Visit Bintan for a hassle-free tropical escape, especially if you’re already planning a trip to Singapore.

Don’t miss:

• Lagoi Bay – Bintan’s main resort area, with a beautiful beach, water sports, restaurants and plenty of places to relax.
• Trikora Beach – Swap the manicured resort setting for a more natural stretch of coastline dotted with huge granite rocks.
• Mangrove adventures – Take a boat through Bintan’s mangrove forests and keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as long-tailed macaques, monitor lizards, colourful kingfishers and even fireflies after dark. 
• Island-hopping & water sports – Snorkelling, diving, kayaking and boat trips are all easy ways to get out on the water.
• Penyengat Island – Just a short boat ride from Tanjung Pinang, this historically important island was once a centre of the Johor-Riau Sultanate and is home to the striking Sultan Riau Mosque.
• Local seafood – Head towards Sebung for fresh seafood served in traditional kelong restaurants overlooking the mangroves.

But Bintan’s biggest selling point is also its location. You can spend the morning exploring Singapore, hop on a ferry and be sipping something cold on an Indonesian beach later that same day. Two countries, one holiday!

Jump into our 4-day, 3-night Bintan Itinerary here and discover the best spots for an unforgettable getaway!

How Do You Get to Bintan From Bali?

For most international travellers, the easiest way to reach Bintan is by ferry from Singapore.

• From Singapore: Fast ferries depart from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Bintan.
• Bintan Resorts: Ferries arrive at Bandar Bentan Telani (BBT) in northern Bintan, right in the Bintan Resorts area.
• Journey time: Around 45-minutes by fast ferry.
• Tanjung Pinang: Ferries also connect Singapore with Sri Bintan Pura Ferry Terminal, which is closer to the island’s main city.

Our tip: If you’re staying at one of the big resorts around Lagoi, choose the Bandar Bentan Telani route. If you’re more interested in exploring Tanjung Pinang and the local side of Bintan, look at ferries to Sri Bintan Pura.

How Do You Get to Bintan from Outside Indonesia?

Bintan doesn’t have international flights, so for most overseas travellers, Singapore is the easiest gateway. The simple route is:

Fly into Singapore → Take the ferry from Tanah Merah → Arrive in Bintan.

You can also fly domestically to Raja Haji Fisabilillah Airport (TNJ) near Tanjung Pinang from Indonesian cities including Jakarta, then continue overland to your accommodation.

For Australian travellers, this makes Bintan particularly easy to add to a Singapore + Indonesia itinerary without needing another flight once you’re in Southeast Asia.

What Should Travellers Know Before Visiting Bintan?

Bintan is easy to reach, but it’s worth knowing which side of the island you’re visiting.

• Choose your area: Lagoi/Bintan Resorts is the place for beachfront resorts, spas, golf and an easy holiday. Tanjung Pinang is better for local life, markets, food and culture.
• Allow time to explore: Bintan is a large island, so don’t expect to walk between all the main attractions. Cars, taxis and resort transfers are the easiest ways to get around.
• Bring some Indonesian rupiah: Resorts and tourist areas are well set up for visitors, but cash is useful when exploring smaller villages and local eateries.
• Go beyond the resort: Bintan’s polished resort areas are only one side of the island. Make time for Trikora, the mangroves, local villages or Tanjung Pinang.
• Remember you’re in Indonesia: It’s easy to feel like you’ve barely left Singapore when you’re staying in the highly developed Bintan Resorts area, but step outside it, and you’ll discover a much more local side of the island.

Where Should You Stay in Bintan?

• Couples: Fancy some grown-up island time? The Residence Bintan brings private pool villas, tropical tranquillity and plenty of time to switch off. Discover more details here!
• Families: Club Med Bintan is made for family fun, with kids’ activities, splash time and plenty to keep the whole gang happy. Find out more about this family-friendly haven here!

FAQs

Which Indonesian Island is Best for First-time Visitors?

Lombok is a great choice for first-time visitors looking beyond Bali, thanks to its beautiful beaches, surfing, adventure, culture and easy access from Bali. For a more remote experience, Sumba or Rote are better choices. 

Which Indonesian Island is Easiest to Get to From Australia?

Lombok and Flores are among the easiest islands to reach from Australia, although most travellers will need to connect through Bali or another regional hub. Bintan is also easy to reach if you’re combining Indonesia with a trip to Singapore. 

Can You Combine Several Indonesian Islands in One Trip?

Absolutely! Lombok, Flores, Sumba and Rote can be combined into a bigger Nusa Tenggara adventure, while Bintan is particularly easy to pair with Singapore. 

Do You Need to Visit Bali to Explore Indonesia?

Not at all! Indonesia has more than 17,000 islands, so there’s an enormous amount to discover beyond Bali, from Sumba’s traditional culture to Flores’ Komodo dragons and Rote’s remote beaches. 

Which Indonesian Island Has the Best Beaches?

We think Lombok and Rote are both fantastic choices for beaches, with Lombok offering more variety and facilities, while Rote is ideal for uncrowded stretches of sand and a slower pace. 

Which Indonesian Island is Best for Adventure?

Flores is hard to beat for adventure, with Komodo dragons, island-hopping, diving, traditional villages and overland journeys through spectacular landscapes. 

Which Indonesian Island is Best for Culture?

For us, Sumba is the standout choice for travellers interested in traditional Indonesian culture, with distinctive villages, ikat weaving, ancient monuments and unique ceremonies such as the Pasola. 

Which Indonesian Island is Best for Escaping the Crowds?

Rote is one of the best choices for getting away from Indonesia’s busier tourist destinations, with quiet beaches, world-class surf and a wonderfully laid-back pace of life. 

The Bottom Line: Indonesia is Waiting Beyond Bali 

Bali may be the gateway to Indonesia for many travellers, but it’s only the beginning. From the wild landscapes of Sumba and the surf beaches of Rote to the Komodo dragons of Flores and the easy island escape of Bintan, there’s a whole lot more waiting to be explored. So, where will you go next?