Bali might be the crown jewel of Indonesian tourism, but with over 17,000 islands in the archipelago, it’s far from the whole story. Beyond Bali’s bustling beaches and Instagrammable cafes lie secluded islands with unspoiled nature, unique cultures, and luxurious hideaways just waiting to be explored. Here are seven hidden Indonesian isles to visit (and the boutique hotels to stay at when there).
Lombok
Around a three-hour speedboat journey east of Bali, Lombok offers a serene alternative to its more famous neighbor.
Known for its unspoiled beaches, soaring Mount Rinjani volcano, and vibrant Sasak culture, Lombok is the ideal destination for those seeking a different Indonesian experience.
Stay Here:
Stay at Somewhere Lombok, tucked away on the island’s southern coast near Selong Belanak Beach. With just a handful of minimalist-chic villas, this hideaway feels both intimate and exclusive.
Each villa features clean, contemporary lines, open-air showers, and private terraces that blur the line between indoor and outdoor living. The infinity pool, surrounded by tropical palms and uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean, is another highlight. Sunrise yoga sessions and in-villa massages are just a request away.
Gili Trawangan
Gili Trawangan is the bohemian starlet of Indonesia’s trio of Gili Islands and sits on the southwestern tip of Lombok. Often dubbed “Gili T,” this barefoot seven-square-kilometer island charms with its carefree vibe and shimmering turquoise waters.
Stay Here:
Stay at Gili Teak. This boutique hideaway’s teakwood villas feel intimate and exclusive, yet utterly unpretentious. Here, you’ll find outdoor rain showers, breezy verandas, and beds draped in billowy white linens. Spend your days lazing by the infinity pool, cocktail in hand, and watch rainbow sunsets each night with a glass of the hotel’s famous sangria.
Beyond the hotel, snorkel or dive with clownfish and turtles. Meander along sandy lanes lined with breezy beach bars and thatched-roof cafés. By night, dig into sizzling seafood in front of beachfront bonfires.
Labuan Bajo
On the western tip of Flores, Labuan Bajo is the perfect launchpad for exploring Komodo National Park. Its sparkling waters and the famed Komodo dragons make this a bucket-list destination for anyone who loves the outside world.
Stay Here:
Stay at AYANA Komodo Resort, on the edge of Waecicu Beach. The resort’s sleek design draws inspiration from the surrounding seascapes, with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing uninterrupted ocean views.
Choose from spacious rooms or suites, all appointed with muted bedding, spa-like bathrooms, and private balconies to soak up the views over the national park.
While here, hop aboard the resort’s luxurious Lako di’a yacht for a day exploring the pink sands of Padar Island, and don’t skip the freshly grilled seafood served up at signature restaurant, Kisik.
Sumba
Far-flung and fiercely beautiful, Sumba is all about rugged landscapes and stripped-back luxury.
Stay Here:
Stay at Nihi Sumba, perched on the island’s western edge. With villas that blend earthy elegance and ocean views, this hideaway redefines exclusivity. Wake to the sound of waves and start each day with a dip in your private infinity pool.
Open-air bathrooms and king-sized canopies come as standard. Days feature leisurely swims, spa treatments in a treehouse, or simply sipping cocktails as the sun dips below the horizon.
By day, ride horseback along golden shores or surf the island’s legendary breaks. While you won’t find wild parties here, you’ll get some hard-to-beat starry skies each night.
Pulo Cinta
Hidden in the Gulf of Tomini, Pulo Cinta Eco Resort is a one-of-a-kind escape infused with eco-conscious design and tropical seclusion. Dubbed the “Island of Love” for its heart-shaped sandbank, this tiny atoll is a perfect blend of romance and tranquility.
Check into one of its 15 overwater bungalows, each with direct access to crystal-clear waters and panoramic ocean views. Interiors are thoughtfully simple, with hardwood floors, breezy open spaces, and net-draped beds.
Expect no Wi-Fi here.
Days at Pulo Cinta are delightfully unhurried. Snorkel just steps from your bungalow to discover colorful coral reefs teeming with fish, or kayak across calm lagoons. Onshore, private beaches invite leisurely picnics, while boat tours explore hidden coves and sandbanks nearby.
Moyo
Moyo Island, off the coast of Sumbawa, is a fusion of dense jungles, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant coral reefs.
Stay Here:
Stay at Amanwana, the island’s sole resort and a flagship of understated luxury. Set along a crescent-shaped bay, this tented camp blends wild elegance with all of the necessary modern comforts – and then some. Each spacious, air-conditioned tent features teak furnishings, king-sized beds, and glass walls that open to views of the forest or the sea.
Snorkel directly off Amanwana’s private beach or trek inland to discover Mata Jitu Waterfall, famed for its multi-tiered cascades and natural turquoise pools. For a slower pace, unwind with a beachfront massage.
Bawa & Bawah Reserve
Tucked within Indonesia’s Anambas Archipelago, Bawah Reserve is a private spot spread across six lush islands, three sapphire lagoons, and 13 white-sand beaches. Accessible only by seaplane, this eco-luxe hotel offers exclusivity in its purest form.
The resort’s 36 villas include overwater bungalows, beachfront suites, and garden villas, all crafted from bamboo and recycled teak. The resort’s holistic Aura Spa offers open-air treatments and yoga sessions to really lean into the relaxed atmosphere.
