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12 of the Best Beaches in Indonesia You Need to Visit at Least Once
Indonesia has long captured the imagination of travelers with its emerald rice terraces, volcanic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Yet, it is the country’s extraordinary coastline that often steals the spotlight. Stretching across thousands of islands between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, Indonesia boasts an astonishing variety of beaches, each offering its own unique character and unforgettable experiences.
Best Beaches in Indonesia
Some beaches attract adventurous surfers with towering waves, while others lure snorkelers and divers into crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. There are pink-sand shores found in only a handful of places worldwide, secluded coves hidden behind dramatic limestone cliffs, and idyllic island escapes where time seems to slow down.
If you’re planning an Indonesian adventure, these 12 spectacular beaches deserve a place on your itinerary. Here are the destinations that showcase the very best of Indonesia’s tropical beauty.
1. Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida, Bali
Located on the rugged island of Nusa Penida, southeast of Bali, Kelingking Beach has become one of Indonesia’s most iconic coastal destinations. Famous for its dramatic cliff formation resembling a Tyrannosaurus rex, the viewpoint overlooking the beach is among the most photographed spots in the country.
Visitors can enjoy hiking down the steep trail to the pristine shoreline below, though the descent requires caution and a reasonable level of fitness. The powerful waves make swimming challenging, but the beach’s raw beauty alone is worth the effort.
What makes Kelingking Beach extraordinary is its untouched appearance. Despite its global fame, it still retains an adventurous, off-the-beaten-path atmosphere. The contrast between the turquoise ocean, white sand, and towering limestone cliffs creates a scene that feels almost unreal.
Interesting fact: The beach gained worldwide recognition through social media, helping transform Nusa Penida into one of Indonesia’s fastest-growing tourism destinations.
2. Pink Beach, Komodo National Park
Nestled within Komodo National Park in East Nusa Tenggara, Pink Beach is one of only a few pink-sand beaches found anywhere in the world. Its distinctive blush-colored shoreline results from microscopic red organisms called Foraminifera mixing with white coral fragments.
The calm, clear waters make this an exceptional spot for snorkeling and swimming. Vibrant coral gardens just offshore are home to colorful fish, sea turtles, and diverse marine species.
Pink Beach offers more than visual appeal. Being located within a UNESCO World Heritage Site means visitors can combine beach relaxation with encounters with the legendary Komodo dragons found elsewhere in the park.
Its rarity alone makes it unforgettable, but the combination of unusual beauty and thriving marine ecosystems elevates Pink Beach into a truly world-class destination.
3. Nusa Dua Beach, Bali
Situated on Bali’s southeastern coast, Nusa Dua Beach offers a more refined and family-friendly beach experience. Known for its calm waters, immaculate shoreline, and luxury resorts, it has become a favorite among travelers seeking comfort and relaxation.
Activities include swimming, paddleboarding, parasailing, and beachfront dining. The gentle waves also make it suitable for families traveling with young children.
Unlike Bali’s more energetic beach destinations, Nusa Dua emphasizes tranquility and sophistication. Landscaped gardens, well-maintained walkways, and exceptional hospitality contribute to its appeal.
Interesting fact: The area was specifically developed as a high-end tourism enclave, designed to showcase Bali’s natural beauty while preserving cultural integrity.
For travelers seeking a balance of tropical scenery and upscale amenities, Nusa Dua Beach remains one of Indonesia’s finest coastal escapes.
4. Tanjung Aan Beach, Lombok
Tanjung Aan Beach is one of Lombok’s most stunning coastal destinations, located on the island’s southern coast near Kuta Lombok in West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. Known for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, this picturesque beach offers a more tranquil alternative to some of Indonesia’s busier seaside spots. Interestingly, parts of the shoreline feature unique peppercorn-shaped sand grains composed of coral fragments, making it unlike many other beaches in the country.
Visitors to Tanjung Aan can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming in the calm waters, sunbathing along the expansive shoreline, snorkeling, and sampling local snacks from beach vendors. One of the highlights is hiking up nearby Merese Hill, where travelers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline, especially during sunset. The surrounding scenery of rolling green hills and secluded coves adds to the beach’s charm.
What makes Tanjung Aan one of the best beaches in Indonesia is its combination of natural beauty, relaxed atmosphere, and relatively untouched setting. Unlike more commercialized beach destinations, it retains an authentic island feel while still offering essential amenities for visitors.
Getting to Tanjung Aan Beach is relatively easy. The beach is about a 20-minute drive from Kuta Lombok and approximately 30 minutes from Lombok International Airport. Visitors can hire a private car, rent a scooter, or arrange a guided tour to explore the area. Its accessibility, coupled with its spectacular scenery, makes Tanjung Aan an essential stop for anyone visiting Lombok.
5. Ora Beach, Maluku
Tucked away on Seram Island in Indonesia’s Maluku Province, Ora Beach is often described as one of the country’s most breathtaking hidden paradises. Located within the pristine waters of Sawai Bay and backed by the lush rainforest-covered mountains of Manusela National Park, this secluded destination offers a level of tranquility rarely found in more developed beach hotspots.
One of the highlights of visiting Ora Beach is snorkeling directly from the shoreline or from the overwater cottages that overlook the crystal-clear sea. Vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish lie just beneath the surface, making it an excellent destination for marine enthusiasts. Visitors can also enjoy kayaking, swimming, island hopping, trekking in nearby Manusela National Park, and experiencing the culture of traditional villages such as Sawai.
What makes Ora Beach one of the best beaches in Indonesia is its untouched beauty. The combination of emerald mountains, turquoise waters, thriving marine biodiversity, and minimal crowds creates a setting often compared to the Maldives.
To get there, travelers typically fly to Ambon, continue by speedboat to Seram Island, and then take a land transfer followed by another boat ride to Ora Beach.
6. Nihiwatu Beach, Sumba
Nihiwatu Beach, located on the remote western coast of Sumba Island in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, is widely regarded as one of the country’s most extraordinary beach destinations. Renowned for its unspoiled beauty, powdery white sand, and crystal-clear waters, this secluded paradise offers a luxurious yet deeply authentic island experience far removed from the crowds of Bali.
One of the highlights of Nihiwatu Beach is its world-class surfing. Experienced surfers travel from around the globe to ride the legendary wave known as “Occy’s Left,” considered one of Indonesia’s finest surf breaks. Beyond surfing, visitors can enjoy horseback riding along the shoreline at sunset, snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing excursions, and guided visits to traditional Sumbanese villages to learn about the island’s unique culture and customs.
What makes Nihiwatu Beach one of the best beaches in Indonesia is its rare combination of exclusivity, natural beauty, and commitment to sustainable tourism. The area remains remarkably pristine, with conservation and community initiatives helping preserve Sumba’s environment and heritage.
To reach Nihiwatu Beach, travelers typically fly from Bali to Tambolaka Airport in Sumba, followed by a scenic 90-minute drive to the beach and nearby resorts.
7. Gili Trawangan Beach, Lombok
Gili Trawangan Beach is one of Indonesia’s most beloved island destinations, located off the northwest coast of Lombok in West Nusa Tenggara. As the largest of the three famous Gili Islands, Gili Trawangan—often called “Gili T”—is renowned for its powdery white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and laid-back tropical atmosphere. What makes this island particularly unique is the absence of motorized vehicles. Instead, visitors explore the island by bicycle, on foot, or by traditional horse-drawn carts known as cidomo.
The island offers a wide range of activities for every type of traveler. Snorkeling and scuba diving are among the top attractions, with opportunities to swim alongside sea turtles and discover vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Visitors can also enjoy paddleboarding, island-hopping tours, sunset cruises, beachfront yoga sessions, and cycling around the island’s scenic coastal paths. The west side of the island is especially popular for its spectacular sunsets, often framed by views of Bali’s Mount Agung.
Gili Trawangan is accessible by fast boat from Bali’s Padang Bai or Serangan ports, with journeys taking approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Travelers can also fly into Lombok International Airport, continue by car to Bangsal Harbor, and then take a short boat ride to the island.
8. Derawan Beach, East Kalimantan
Derawan Beach, located in the Derawan Islands of East Kalimantan, Indonesia, is one of the country’s most spectacular tropical destinations. Situated off the northeastern coast of Borneo, this idyllic island paradise is renowned for its powdery white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and extraordinary marine biodiversity. Despite its growing popularity among divers and nature enthusiasts, Derawan retains a peaceful atmosphere that feels far removed from Indonesia’s busier tourist hotspots.
One of the biggest highlights of visiting Derawan Beach is the opportunity to explore its vibrant underwater world. Snorkeling and scuba diving reveal colorful coral gardens teeming with reef fish, sea turtles, manta rays, and other marine species. Nearby attractions include Kakaban Island, famous for its unique jellyfish lake where visitors can swim alongside non-stinging jellyfish, and Sangalaki Island, a well-known nesting site for green sea turtles and a popular spot for manta ray encounters.
What makes Derawan one of Indonesia’s best beaches is its combination of pristine natural beauty and remarkable wildlife experiences. To get there, travelers typically fly to Berau’s Kalimarau Airport from major cities such as Balikpapan or Jakarta. From Berau, a land transfer to Tanjung Batu Port followed by a speedboat ride brings visitors to the stunning shores of Derawan Island.
9. Tanjung Tinggi Beach, Belitung
Tanjung Tinggi Beach is one of the most beautiful coastal destinations on Belitung Island, located in the Bangka Belitung Islands Province of Indonesia. Situated approximately 30 kilometers north of Tanjung Pandan, the island’s main town, this stunning beach is famous for its powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and its spectacular granite rock formations that rise dramatically along the shoreline. Some of these massive boulders are estimated to be hundreds of millions of years old, creating a landscape unlike any other on Indonesia’s beaches.
Visitors can spend the day swimming in the calm, shallow waters, sunbathing on the soft sand, or exploring the natural maze formed by the giant granite stones. Photography enthusiasts will find countless scenic spots, especially at sunrise and sunset, when the rocks glow in the changing light. The beach also gained popularity after being featured in the acclaimed Indonesian film Laskar Pelangi.
What makes Tanjung Tinggi Beach one of Indonesia’s best beaches is its unique geological beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and relatively uncrowded setting. Travelers can reach Belitung by taking a direct flight from Jakarta to H.A.S. Hanandjoeddin International Airport, followed by a 30- to 40-minute drive to the beach.
10. Sawarna Beach, Banten
Located in the village of Sawarna in Lebak Regency, Banten Province, Sawarna Beach is one of Indonesia’s most captivating hidden gems. Situated along the southern coast of Java facing the Indian Ocean, this spectacular destination is approximately six to seven hours by road from Jakarta. Unlike the country’s more commercialized beach destinations, Sawarna offers a raw and authentic coastal experience surrounded by dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, caves, and traditional fishing communities.
One of the highlights of visiting Sawarna Beach is exploring its diverse natural attractions. Travelers can admire the iconic sea arch at Tanjung Layar, relax on the golden sands of Pantai Ciantir, or venture into nearby caves such as Goa Lalay and Goa Langir. Sawarna is also a popular destination among surfers, thanks to its consistent waves that attract both local and international enthusiasts. Sunset walks along the shoreline, and interactions with the friendly local community further enrich the experience.
What makes Sawarna one of Indonesia’s best beaches is its unspoiled beauty and tranquil atmosphere. The absence of large-scale developments allows visitors to enjoy nature in its purest form. To reach Sawarna, travelers can take a bus or drive from Jakarta to Lebak Regency, then continue by local transport or a private vehicle directly to the beach village.
11. Pasir Putih Beach, East Java
Pasir Putih Beach, also known as White Sand Beach, is one of East Java’s most beloved coastal destinations. Located in Situbondo Regency along the northern coastline of East Java, Indonesia, this picturesque beach is renowned for its crescent-shaped shoreline, powdery white sand, and calm turquoise waters. Fringed by lush greenery and traditional fishing boats, Pasir Putih offers a tranquil escape from the more crowded beach destinations in the country.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming in the gentle waters, snorkeling to explore the marine life beneath the surface, taking banana boat rides, or joining local fishermen on short boat excursions. The beach is also an excellent spot for relaxing under shaded huts while enjoying freshly prepared seafood from nearby stalls. Photographers will appreciate the scenic views, especially during sunrise when the coastline is bathed in golden light.
What makes Pasir Putih one of Indonesia’s best beaches is its combination of natural beauty, family-friendly atmosphere, and authentic local charm. Unlike heavily commercialized destinations, it retains a laid-back ambiance that showcases everyday coastal life in East Java.
The beach is accessible by road from Surabaya, approximately five to six hours away by car. Travelers can also take a train or bus to Situbondo before continuing to Pasir Putih by taxi or local transportation.
12. Parai Tenggiri Beach, Bangka Island
Located on Bangka Island in Indonesia’s Bangka Belitung Islands Province, Parai Tenggiri Beach is one of the country’s most beautiful yet underrated coastal destinations. Situated near Sungailiat, approximately 40 kilometers from Pangkalpinang, the beach is renowned for its powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and striking granite rock formations that create a dramatic and picturesque landscape.
Visitors to Parai Tenggiri Beach can enjoy a variety of activities. Swimming and sunbathing are among the most popular activities, thanks to the beach’s calm, inviting waters. Snorkeling allows travelers to discover colorful marine life beneath the surface, while water sports such as jet skiing and banana boat rides add excitement for adventure seekers. The massive granite boulders scattered along the shoreline also offer excellent photo opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset.
What makes Parai Tenggiri one of the best beaches in Indonesia is its combination of natural beauty and relative tranquility. Unlike some of the country’s more crowded beach destinations, it offers a peaceful atmosphere where visitors can fully appreciate the unspoiled scenery.
To get there, travelers can fly from Jakarta to Depati Amir Airport in Pangkalpinang. From the airport, Parai Tenggiri Beach is about an hour’s drive by taxi or private transfer.
Best Beaches in Indonesia
Indonesia’s beaches offer far more than postcard-perfect views. They represent the country’s extraordinary diversity, where every island reveals its own stories, landscapes, and traditions. From the prehistoric surroundings of Komodo National Park to the secluded tranquility of Maluku, each destination provides a distinct perspective on what makes Indonesia one of the world’s premier beach destinations.
Whether you dream of surfing legendary waves, snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, discovering hidden island gems, or simply unwinding beneath swaying palm trees, Indonesia delivers experiences that linger long after the journey ends. These 12 beaches are only the beginning of what this remarkable archipelago has to offer—and they just might inspire your next unforgettable tropical adventure.
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