Sunset drinks and relaxing by the coast, exhilarating line-up of water activities, indulging in delectable cuisine while soaking up the sun – there’s so much to enjoy about beach life, it’s no surprise that an Agoda survey found that beach is the top type of destination for Indonesian travelers. In fact, when asked to showcase hidden gems of their archipelago, almost 40% of Agoda GoLocal Photography Competition participants posted photos of the beach!
Among the beach -themed photos, Bali was featured the most, followed by East Nusa Tenggara and West Nusa Tenggara. Indonesians also recommended Sumatra and Sulawesi island for tropical escapes.
Feeling inspired to plan your wishlist beach destinations now? Check out these seven stunning Indonesian beaches and islands (including hidden gems that some Indonesians might not even know about!) that the Agoda photo competition participants showcased for fellow Indonesians.
Bali
Amed Beach
This one is great spot for divers. Spanning seven seaside fishing villages, Amed beach in East Bali is famous as a dive spot, with great coral reefs and abundance of sea life, from giant purple starfishs, reef sharks to sea turtles. You can also have a night diving and swim with bio-luminescent plankton.
Dive at the well-known USS Liberty wreck at Tulamben (roughly 30 kilometers north of Amed) and you will definitely have your mind blown. It is often considered one of the best wreck dives in the world.
Apart from water sports, you can also observe local farmers harvesting salt traditionally from seawater poured into coconut tree trunks in Purwaketi area!
Check-in at the Solaluna Beach Homestay
Blue Lagoon Beach
Take a break from the popular Seminyak or Jimbaran Bay beaches and head to. Blue Lagoon, a hidden gem in East Bali, great for those who want a quiet getaway. Known for being an underwater paradise, Blue Lagoon is teeming with exotic marine life and a great spot for snorkelling and diving.
The charming Casa Mimba 3 Bedrooms Luxury Pool Villa Bali is perfect for groups or families traveling together.
Nusa Tenggara
Ontoloe Island, East Nusa Tenggara
Ever seen the spectacle of thousands of bats rushing into the dusk sky? Located on the northeast of Flores, NTT, Ontoloe known as Bat Island, is home to a massive fruit bats colony which typically fly over the mangrove trees.
Ontoloe is also the largest island in the ’17 Islands Marine Park’. Despite the name, 17 Islands Marine Park consists of over 20 small islands and has a rich coral-reef ecosystem where you can count up to 27 different coral species. The quiet beaches and crystal-clear water make it a perfect place for swimming, snorkeling, and underwater photography. This place is well off the tourist track, perfect for a peaceful getaway. Rest up at the Riung Guesthouse (https://www.agoda.com/riung-guesthouse/hotel/flores-id.html?site_id=1811392).
Sumatra
Natuna and Anambas island, Riau
The Natuna and the Anambas islands are Indonesia’s outermost northern border islands in the Riau Archipelago, on the west side of the South China Sea. Surrounded by white sand beaches like Tanjung Sebagul and Setengar, Natuna and the Anambas promise true off-the-beaten-track adventure and pristine, tropical beauty. If you’re lucky, you might even find turtles coming up the shore to lay their eggs.
Wake up to stunning sea views at this private beach villa on Anambas islands (https://www.agoda.com/private-beach-villa-anambas-islands/hotel/anambas-islands-id.html?site_id=1811392).
Weh Island, Aceh
Located in Indonesia’s westernmost point, Weh island boasts two idyllic beaches, Gapang and Iboih, and warm, crystal clear waters with thriving, undisturbed wildlife, perfect for diving and snorkelling. Nature lovers can also check out Waterfalls Man Laot and the refreshing surrounding greenery, before relaxing at one of island’s hot springs.
The Hawk’s Nest Resort Bungalow with Sea View
The Hawk’s Nest Resort Bungalow Beach Front
Sulawesi
Bira Beach, South Sulawesi
Located in Tanjung Bira, South Sulawesi, Bira is another must-visit white sand beach. Feel the soft powder sand as you stroll along and admire the panoramic view, and if you’re up for exploring, rent a boat by the beach to visit other nearby islands like Liukang Loe. Complete your Bira experience with a stay at the conveniently located Tevana House Reef (https://www.agoda.com/tevana-house-reef/hotel/tanete-id.html?site_id=1811392) where you can wake up and join other guests for yoga, or get a massage at the property.
Togian Islands, Central Sulawesi
The Togian Islands is a true tropical paradise with beautiful powder sand beaches and pristine coral reefs in crystal clear water, and popular with divers. Underwater enthusiasts should check in at the Sanctum Una Una Eco Dive Resort where they serve full-board meals.
Chat to some of the friendly local Bajau people, also commonly known as Sea Gypsies, who live in villages that are built on stilts over the waters! To take the adventure up a notch, plan a hike to the nearby Una Una Volcano after you’ve had enough of the beach.
