Hidden Gems of Indonesia: 9 Lesser-Known Islands Worth Visiting in 2025

I’ll never forget the moment I first realized just how vast Indonesia really is. I was sitting in a tiny propeller plane, flying over an endless expanse of emerald islands scattered across the azure Java Sea, when the pilot casually mentioned that we were seeing just a tiny fraction of Indonesia’s 17,000+ islands. That’s right – while Bali welcomes over 6 million tourists annually, there are literally thousands of other Indonesian islands just waiting to be explored!

After spending over a decade exploring this incredible archipelago, I’ve discovered that the real magic of Indonesia lies in its lesser-known islands. These hidden gems offer everything that made Bali famous – pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, lush jungles, and rich culture – but without the crowds and commercialization that can sometimes overwhelm popular destinations.

In this guide, I’m going to share my favorite secret Indonesian islands that most tourists never hear about. These aren’t just dots on a map – they’re places where you can still find untouched beaches, swim in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, and experience authentic Indonesian culture firsthand. From the historic Banda Islands, once the global center of the spice trade, to the pristine beaches of the Kei Islands that rival the Maldives, these destinations will show you a side of Indonesia that most travelers never see.

Whether you’re an adventurous soul looking to get off the beaten path, a diving enthusiast seeking untouched reefs, or simply someone who wants to experience authentic Indonesian island life, this guide will help you discover some of Southeast Asia’s last hidden paradises. Pack your sense of adventure – we’re about to explore Indonesia’s best-kept secrets!

Why Venture Beyond Popular Indonesian Islands

Let me share something that changed my perspective forever: my first visit to a remote Indonesian island happened completely by accident. After a cancelled flight to Bali left me stranded in Jakarta, I took a chance on Belitung Island – and it turned out to be the best travel mistake I’ve ever made!

The contrast was striking. Instead of fighting through crowds to get the perfect Instagram shot, I had entire beaches to myself. Rather than paying premium prices for “authentic” experiences, I was naturally included in local ceremonies and family gatherings. The best part? My daily expenses were about a third of what I’d typically spend in Bali or the Gilis.

But it’s not just about saving money or avoiding crowds. These lesser-known islands offer something increasingly rare in our hyperconnected world: genuine discovery. When you step onto a beach that hasn’t been geotagged thousands of times on social media, or when you’re the only foreigner in a traditional market, you get to experience Indonesia as it truly is, not as it’s packaged for mass tourism.

The Best Lesser-Known Islands in Western Indonesia

Belitung Island 

The first time I set foot on Belitung, I thought I’d wandered onto a movie set. Imagine giant granite boulders scattered across pristine white sand beaches, looking like they’d been artfully placed by some cosmic designer. But this isn’t staged – it’s just nature showing off!

Getting here is surprisingly easy – just a 1-hour flight from Jakarta. I’d recommend staying in Tanjung Pandan, where you’ll find a range of accommodations from simple guesthouses to boutique resorts. My personal favorite is the area around Tanjung Tinggi Beach, made famous by the movie “Laskar Pelangi.”

Don’t miss the island-hopping tour to Lengkuas Island, home to a 129-year-old lighthouse that you can climb for panoramic views. And please, do yourself a favor and try the local specialty, gangan – a sour fish soup that I still dream about years later!

Bangka Island

Think of Bangka as Belitung’s more rugged cousin. This island’s history as a tin mining center has created an otherworldly landscape where turquoise lakes fill former mining quarries, creating some of the most unique swimming spots you’ll ever experience.

During my visit, I stayed in Pangkal Pinang, the main city, but quickly discovered that the real treasures lie in the coastal areas. Parai Beach, with its iconic granite formations, rivals anything you’ll find in more famous destinations. The seafood here is incredibly fresh and affordable – I still remember paying less than $10 for a feast of grilled fish, prawns, and local vegetables at a beachside warung.

Weh Island (Pulau Weh)

Located at Indonesia’s northernmost tip, Weh Island is proof that sometimes the extra effort to reach a place makes it even more special. After taking a flight to Banda Aceh and then a fast ferry, I found myself in one of the best diving destinations I’ve ever experienced.

The diving here is world-class but remains relatively unknown. During my stay, I encountered massive schools of fish, reef sharks, and even a pod of dolphins – all without another dive boat in sight. The volcanic hot springs near Jaboi Village offer a perfect way to relax after a day of diving.

Hidden Gems in Central Indonesia

Moyo Island

I still remember the look of confusion on my friends’ faces when I told them I was heading to Moyo Island. “Moyo… where?” Yet this tiny island off Sumbawa’s coast has hosted everyone from Princess Diana to David Beckham – and for good reason!

My journey to Moyo started with a quick flight to Sumbawa Besar, followed by a scenic boat ride that had me spotting flying fish along the way. The moment I stepped onto the island, I knew I’d found something special. The air was filled with the sound of birds I’d never heard before, and the jungle seemed to pulse with life.

Don’t miss Mata Jitu waterfall – it’s a bit of a trek through the jungle, but oh my goodness, is it worth it! Picture a series of limestone pools cascading down the hillside, each one more inviting than the last. I spent an entire afternoon here, swimming in crystal-clear pools and watching monitor lizards sun themselves on nearby rocks.

Pro tip: While there’s a luxury resort on the island (Amanwana), I stayed in a simple guesthouse in the local village for about $30 a night. The family who ran it taught me how to cook local dishes and showed me spots that weren’t in any guidebook!

Alor Island

If you’re looking for the Indonesia of decades past, Alor Island is your answer. I arrived here chasing rumors of spectacular diving but found so much more. This remote eastern paradise offers a perfect blend of underwater adventures and cultural experiences that few other places can match.

The diving here? Mind-blowing! I encountered hammerhead sharks, walls of giant trevally, and some of the healthiest coral I’ve seen anywhere in Indonesia. But what really struck me was how empty the dive sites were – often, we were the only boat in sight.

Between dives, I visited traditional villages where women still weave their famous ikat textiles using ancient techniques. In one village, Takpala, I was invited to participate in the lego-lego dance, a traditional ring dance that’s been performed here for generations. Fair warning: I was terrible at it, but the locals found my attempts hilarious!

Accommodation is basic but charming. I stayed at Alami Alor Dive Resort, which offers simple bungalows right on the beach. The sound of waves crashing against the shore became my nightly lullaby.

Selayar Island

“You’re going to Selayar? But there’s nothing there!” a local told me in Makassar. Well, sometimes “nothing” turns out to be everything you’re looking for. Stretching along South Sulawesi’s coast, Selayar is a long, thin island that feels like it’s been frozen in time.

The island’s western coast is dotted with Dutch colonial buildings, remnants of its importance in the spice trade. I spent a fascinating morning exploring these old structures, many of which are still in use today. The local government office is housed in a beautifully preserved colonial mansion – and yes, they’ll usually let you take a peek inside if you ask politely!

But the real treasure of Selayar lies underwater. Taka Bonerate National Park, accessible from the island, is the third-largest coral atoll in the world. I joined a local fishing boat for a day trip to the atoll, where I snorkeled over coral gardens teeming with life. The water was so clear, I could see straight to the bottom even in deeper areas.

Transportation tip: Getting to Selayar takes some effort – fly to Makassar, then take either a short flight or a ferry to the island. I chose the ferry for the adventure and was rewarded with stunning views of the Flores Sea and conversations with friendly locals.

Food highlight: Don’t leave without trying Sop Konro, a local rib soup that’s totally different from the version you’ll find in Makassar. The Selayar version includes local spices that give it a unique twist. I probably had it five times during my week-long stay!

In all three of these islands, what struck me most was how warmly I was welcomed by local communities. Unlike more touristy areas where interactions can feel transactional, people here were genuinely curious about visitors and eager to share their culture. Just remember to respect local customs – I always carried a sarong to cover up when visiting villages or religious sites, and learned a few basic Indonesian phrases which went a long way in building connections.

Secret Paradise in Eastern Indonesia

Banda Islands

The moment I stepped off the small propeller plane onto Banda Neira’s tiny airstrip, I felt like I’d traveled back in time. These remote islands, once worth more than Manhattan (true story – the Dutch traded Manhattan to the British for Pulau Run in 1667!), are now one of Indonesia’s best-kept secrets.

My first morning here, I woke up in a 200-year-old colonial mansion turned guesthouse to the sound of nutmeg farmers heading to their plantations. The air was thick with the scent of cloves and nutmeg – the very spices that made these islands the center of global trade wars centuries ago.

Getting here isn’t easy – I took a flight to Ambon, followed by either a 6-hour speed boat ride or a flight on a small aircraft (schedules are… let’s say flexible). But the journey is part of the adventure, and the rewards are incredible.

Don’t miss climbing Gunung Api at sunrise. It’s a challenging 2-hour hike, but the view of the perfectly cone-shaped volcano casting its shadow over the Bandas is worth every drop of sweat. After the hike, I cooled off by diving in what’s known as the ‘Sea Garden’ – imagine pristine coral reefs with 30-meter visibility and not another diver in sight!

Pro tip: Stay at least 5 days. The boat schedule can be unpredictable, and you’ll want time to explore all the islands, especially Pulau Run and Ai with their historic nutmeg groves.

Kai Islands

“This can’t be Indonesia,” was my first thought when I saw the beaches of the Kai Islands. The sand here isn’t just white – it’s nearly pure white, so fine it squeaks under your feet. Local legend says the sand was made from crushed angel wings, and standing on Pasir Panjang beach, I could almost believe it.

I based myself in Langgur town, but the magic happens when you venture out to the smaller islands. Hiring a local boat for the day costs around $50, and the captains know all the secret spots. One morning, my boat captain, Pak Raja, took me to a hidden lagoon where we had breakfast on the beach while watching baby blacktip reef sharks swim in the shallows.

What makes Kai truly special is its preservation of traditional boat-building techniques. In the village of Tual, I watched master craftsmen build boats without any power tools, using methods passed down through generations. They even invited me to help (though I suspect I was more hindrance than help!).

Accommodation tip: While there are some nice guesthouses in Langgur, I found a wonderful homestay in the village of Ohoidertawun. The family taught me to cook local specialties like papeda (sago pudding) with yellow fish soup – a unique Kei delicacy.

Wakatobi Islands

If you’re a marine enthusiast like me, Wakatobi will feel like hitting the jackpot. These islands – whose name is an acronym of the main islands Wangi-Wangi, Kaledupa, Tomia, and Binongko – sit in the heart of the Coral Triangle, home to some of the highest marine biodiversity on Earth.

I spent my first few days on Wangi-Wangi, where I discovered that the house reef right off the beach was better than many dive sites I’d paid to visit elsewhere! Snorkeling here, I saw everything from pygmy seahorses to blue-ringed octopuses, and that was just the beginning.

Beyond the underwater wonders, each island has its own specialty. Binongko is famous for its traditional knife-making – I watched blacksmiths forge blades using techniques unchanged for centuries. On Tomia, I learned about traditional seaweed farming, an increasingly important part of the local economy.

Essential info: While there are flights to Wangi-Wangi from Kendari, the other islands are accessible only by boat. Pack motion sickness pills if you’re prone to seasickness!

Cultural note: The Wakatobi people have fascinating traditions around marine conservation. Their traditional practices, like “buka-tutup” (opening and closing fishing areas to prevent overfishing), are now being studied by marine scientists worldwide.

A word about timing: The best conditions for diving and snorkeling are during the dry season (March to December), but I visited in January and still had incredible experiences. Just be flexible with your plans, as boat schedules can change with the weather.

Remember to bring enough cash – ATMs are rare on these islands, and those that exist don’t always work. Also, consider bringing some basic medical supplies, as pharmacies can be limited. But most importantly, bring an open mind and a willingness to adapt to island time – some of the best experiences happen when things don’t go according to plan!

Practical Tips for Visiting Remote Indonesian Islands

After countless ferry rides, bumpy car journeys, and the occasional motorcycle adventure, I’ve learned a few crucial lessons about visiting remote Indonesian islands. First, always build flexibility into your schedule – island transportation doesn’t always run on time (or sometimes at all). I once spent an extra three days on Moyo Island due to rough seas, though I can’t say I was complaining!

Pack light but smart. Essential items include reef-safe sunscreen (hard to find locally), a good first-aid kit, and a water filter or purifier. I’ve found that a basic knowledge of Bahasa Indonesia goes a long way – even simple phrases can help you navigate local transport and find the best local food spots.

Planning Your Trip

The best time to visit these islands varies by region, but generally, aim for the dry season between May and September. However, I’ve had wonderful experiences during shoulder season (April and October) when prices are lower and crowds are even thinner.

Budget-wise, expect to spend $30-50 per day on most remote islands, including accommodation, food, and activities. However, prices can vary significantly – the Banda Islands tend to be more expensive due to limited accommodation options.

Conclusion

After exploring these hidden corners of Indonesia, I can confidently say that the extra effort to reach them is worth every moment. These islands offer more than just beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters – they provide a window into an Indonesia that’s rapidly disappearing from more popular destinations.

Whether you’re snorkeling over pristine reefs in Wakatobi, watching traditional boat builders in the Kei Islands, or hiking through spice plantations in the Bandas, these experiences will give you a deeper appreciation for Indonesia’s incredible diversity and beauty.

Remember to travel responsibly – many of these islands have limited infrastructure and waste management systems. Let’s help keep these paradise islands pristine for future generations of adventurous travelers.

Have you visited any of Indonesia’s lesser-known islands? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below. And if you’re planning a trip, feel free to ask any questions – I’m always happy to help fellow travelers discover these hidden gems!

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Lesser-Known Indonesian Islands

What’s the best way to get to these remote Indonesian islands?

Most remote islands are accessible through a combination of:

• Initial flight to a major hub (Jakarta, Makassar, or Ambon)
• Secondary transportation via:
  • Small propeller planes (for islands like Banda)
  • Speed boats or ferries (for islands like Kei)
  • Combination of land and sea transport

Pro tip: Always build in buffer days for your journey. Weather conditions can affect schedules, and flights/boats to remote islands don’t operate daily. For example, flights to Banda Islands might only run 2-3 times per week.

How much should I budget per day for visiting these islands?

Budget breakdown per day:

• Budget travel: $30-50 USD
  • Basic guesthouse: $15-25
  • Local meals: $5-10
  • Activities: $10-15
• Mid-range travel: $75-100 USD
  • Better hotel: $40-60
  • Mix of local and western food: $15-20
  • Activities and transport: $20-30
• Luxury travel: $200+ USD (especially in places like Amanwana on Moyo Island)

Note: Bring enough cash! ATMs are scarce on remote islands, and those available might not accept international cards.

When is the best time to visit these Indonesian islands?

Best visiting times vary by region:

• Western Indonesia (Belitung, Bangka):
  • April to October (dry season)
  • Best conditions: July to September
• Central Indonesia (Moyo, Alor):
  • April to November
  • Peak conditions: August to October
• Eastern Indonesia (Banda, Kei, Wakatobi):
  • March to December
  • Best diving: October to November

Avoid: December to February (rainy season) as boat services can be disrupted.

Is it safe to visit these remote Indonesian islands?

Yes, these islands are generally very safe, but take basic precautions:

• Get travel insurance covering remote locations
• Bring basic medical supplies
• Research nearest medical facilities
• Register with your embassy if staying long-term
• Download offline maps and Indonesian language basics
• Keep emergency contact numbers handy
• Check current weather conditions before boat journeys

Important: While crime rates are low, basic healthcare facilities might be hours away by boat.

What essential items should I pack for visiting remote Indonesian islands?

Must-pack items include:

• Reef-safe sunscreen (hard to find locally)
• Basic medical kit with:
  • Motion sickness pills
  • Antibacterial ointment
  • Bandages
  • Prescription medications
• Waterproof bag for boat journeys
• Power bank (electricity can be intermittent)
• Offline maps and language apps
• Light rain jacket
• Modest clothing for village visits
• Snorkel gear (if particular about quality)
• Cash in Indonesian Rupiah
• Universal adapter
• Insect repellent

Pro tip: Pack light but smart – many islands have limited laundry facilities.

Bonus tip: Consider bringing small gifts for homestay hosts or local guides – this is not expected but always appreciated. Educational items for children or practical household items are good choices.