10 Secret islands in Indonesia you need to discover today

1/10
Widi Islands
As per its name, Widi Islands (also known as ‘Wild Islands’) holds a raw beauty that makes it a sight to behold. Perhaps that is the reason why tourists and locals have found solace in the white sandy beaches and clear sea— to the point where the district government is trying to develop the island to be a tourism hotspot. With 99 islands in total, this group of islands are surrounded by crystal clear waters, beautiful coral reefs, and plenty of colourful fish that makes diving and snorkelling so popular amongst visitors.

Photo: @visualconspiracy
2/10
Nusa Penida
For an island seemingly untouched by development, you cannot go wrong with Nusa Penida, just forty minutes away from Bali. Although its counterparts, Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan, are more popular with tourists, the view at Nusa Penida makes it a perfect location for a quiet, peaceful, yet absolutely stunning vacation. There’s this combination of development and rurality about the island that almost makes it feel like you’re travelling back in time. And we haven’t even begun talking about the waterfall and limestone cliffs yet!

Photo: Getty Images
3/10
Wakatobi Islands
Wakatobi is a group of four islands— Wangi Wangi, Kaledupa, Tomia and Binongko, with each one of them boasting incredible sights and landmarks that are sure to be delights on your vacation itinerary. Sure, getting there might be a bit harder than the popular spots, but that’s what makes the journey amazing. For those seeking a little thrill, diving, sailing, and kayaking are on the cards. Pro-tip: wake up from 6am to 7am and get a wonderful view of dolphins splashing about in the sea.

Photo: Getty Images
4/10
Raja Ampat Islands
Part of the Coral Triangle, these group of islands contain one of the highest diversity of marine life in the world. And if that alone isn’t intriguing enough, the islands are surrounded by the most magnificent shade of turquoise that almost appears surreal, and the fishes swimming freely right beneath the surface will make you feel like you’re on another world. At Raja Ampat, you know you’re getting a view of marine life at its very best, untouched, undisturbed, and at its very best.

Photo: Getty Images
5/10
Nikoi Island
Unlike most of the other places on this list, Nikoi Island is a private island just off the coast of Bintan. Have a luxuriously unparalleled vacation at this secluded island. Amongst the fifteen beach houses on the island, you will find a magnificent coast that is in pristine condition with staff members that will turn your trip into an incredible experience. Divers can also look forward to a wide array of coral reefs and marine life.

Photo: Getty Images
6/10
Karimunjawa Islands
Located in Central Java, these island chains have everything you want, and more. Clear waters, a beautiful sunrise and sunset, and wonderful white sandy beaches to boot. Go island-hopping amongst its many islands, snorkel and swim with the sharks, and end the day with a trek that highlights how truly picturesque the islands are. And, if that’s not enough, visit the Karimun Java National Park, a marine conservation area to really get in touch with nature.

Photo: Getty Images
7/10
Sumba Island
When you think of a hotel that’s voted as the best in the whole world in 2016, chances are you wouldn’t automatically think of the location it is based at -- Sumba Island. But that’s understandable, considering how little attention it gets compared to the many islands located in Indonesia. The villas on the island provide a much-needed reprieve, away from the rush of life. Here, you are able to delve into an uninterrupted paradise.

Photo: Getty Images
8/10
Moyo Island
Moyo Island does not get enough love for the pristine and magical vacation that transforms the wildness of wilderness in a tamed and exquisite manner. Admittedly, it only has one resort on the island, but it plays into the exclusivity that enables you to truly enjoy your time there, without fighting over amenities or for space. Dive into the water fearlessly and be greeted with an abundance of marine life; smell the scent of the Flores Sea and then recline in the setting sun.

Photo: Getty Images
9/10
Togean Islands
Outside of the main town, you'll find yourself in an isolated haven. Even during the peak hours, the island remains filled enough to not be entirely lonely, but quiet enough so you can relish in an uninterrupted time. This location seems to be a hit with children, and they get to explore nature at its best without restrictions. Swim amongst jellyfishes at the Mariona Lake and hike up waterfalls for an amazing view.

Photo: Getty Images
10/10
Halura Island
We have saved the best for the last. Introducing Halura Island: the best place to go if you’re really seeking that solace and silence that comes with an island vacation. Explore world-class waters to surf in and an island that is still in a pristine condition which makes it a rare sight to behold. The island may not be particularly big or developed, but that’s the true beauty of the place. For those who prefer the road less travelled, have a go at Halura Island.

Photo: Getty Images

See, in our heads, travelling can sometimes appear more glamorous than it actually is. From embarking on a plane to reaching your destination, it is easy to have an overly picturesque idealisation of what your holiday would be like. After all, the images on Google didn’t account for the horde of excited tourists (which may or may not include you) heading in one direction. So, yeah, the picture you’re dying to take of yourself with the perfect sunset backdrop might not be exactly feasible, unless you don’t mind the twelve children running in the background.

But, holidays don’t have to be like this, especially not in Indonesia. With over 17000 islands, is it any surprise that the world’s largest archipelago has a myriad of hidden islands that you’ve probably never heard of? Sure, Bali is great, but there’s so much more to the country than this tourist-infested island, especially one as diverse as Indonesia. So, the next time you are planning a trip to the Emerald of the Equator, perhaps consider one of these 10 islands that will defy your definition of an island paradise in the most beautiful of ways.

Lee Hui Bing

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