More: When to visit Indonesia · Indonesia travel guide
Quick Answer
The best islands in Indonesia start with Bali, then Komodo and Padar for their bays and dragons, the car-free Gili Islands, Lombok, Java’s volcanoes and temples, and Raja Ampat for the world’s finest diving. Here are 10 of the best, with what defines each.
Indonesia spans more than 17,000 islands across three time zones, from surf breaks to active volcanoes and the richest reefs on earth. These 10 are the ones worth planning around — each with what makes it distinct and the season to visit.
10 of the Best Islands in Indonesia
1. Bali
Rice terraces, temples, surf and a deep craft culture — the island that needs no introduction, and still rewards those who get beyond the south.
2. Komodo & Padar
Curved pink-sand bays, manta rays and world-class diving in a national park reached by boat from Labuan Bajo on Flores.
3. The Gili Islands
Three car-free islets off Lombok: bicycles, turquoise shallows and turtles a few metres from the beach.
4. Rinca & the Komodo dragons
The world’s largest lizards, up to three metres long, patrol Komodo and Rinca — seen on guided ranger walks from the boats.
5. Lombok
Bali’s quieter neighbour: the trek up Mount Rinjani, empty southern beaches and a slower, more traditional pace.
6. Java
The most populous island holds Borobudur and Prambanan, the sunrise volcanoes of Bromo and Ijen, and the culture of Yogyakarta.
7. Raja Ampat
The richest marine biodiversity on the planet, in remote West Papua — the ultimate dive trip, and a serious journey to reach.
8. Nusa Penida
Dramatic cliffs and Kelingking Beach a short boat ride from Bali, plus manta rays at Manta Point.
9. Flores
Volcanic and rugged, with the tri-coloured crater lakes of Kelimutu and traditional villages inland from Labuan Bajo.
10. Sumba
Wild horses, megalithic tombs and empty beaches on an island still largely untouched by tourism.
When to go and how to island-hop
The dry season runs roughly May to September across most of the archipelago and is the best window for diving, trekking and boat trips; the wet season brings short heavy downpours rather than all-day rain. Bali is the main hub, with short flights to Lombok, Labuan Bajo (for Komodo) and Java, while Raja Ampat takes the best part of two days to reach via Sorong. Komodo is usually visited on liveaboard boats of two to four nights, and permits are required for the national park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Indonesian island is the best?
Bali for the widest range of things to do, Komodo for scenery and diving, and Raja Ampat for the best underwater experience anywhere.
When is the best time to visit Indonesia?
May to September, the dry season, is the most reliable — especially for diving and volcano treks.
How do you get to Komodo?
Fly to Labuan Bajo on Flores, then join a day trip or liveaboard boat into the national park.