Beyond the shores of Bali, a myriad of enchanting islands awaits exploration, each offering its own distinct allure and charm.
Embarking on an island-hopping adventure around Bali unveils a tapestry of experiences, from secluded beaches with crystalline waters to lush jungles teeming with wildlife.
Join us as we embark on a journey to discover the best islands around Bali, where every shore holds the promise of adventure and every sunset paints a masterpiece across the horizon.
Lombok
Just a short boat ride from Bali, Lombok beckons with its pristine landscapes and authentic charm, offering a quieter alternative to its bustling neighbour. Majestic Mount Rinjani towers over lush greenery, inviting adventurers to trek its volcanic slopes and discover breathtaking vistas. From stunning waterfalls to epic surf breaks, Lombok boasts an array of natural wonders, while traditional Sasak villages provide a glimpse into local culture.
Explore the underwater paradise surrounding the Gili Islands, accessible from Lombok’s shores, where vibrant coral reefs teem with marine life, making it a diver’s haven. Embrace the tranquillity of Lombok while savouring the excitement of island hopping, a journey that promises unforgettable experiences amidst nature’s bounty.
Gili Trawangan
Nestled east of Bali, the Gili archipelago presents a tropical haven where stunning natural beauty meets vibrant island life. Gili Trawangan, the largest of the trio, exudes a bohemian charm, boasting buzzing beach bars and stylish cafes against a backdrop of white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Dive enthusiasts are drawn to its spectacular reefs and renowned dive sites like Shark Reef, offering thrilling underwater adventures.
With its plethora of guesthouses, hotels, and resorts, Gili Trawangan caters to every traveller, while its lively nightlife scene ranges from tranquil sunset views to lively all-night raves, establishing it as a premier party hotspot in the region. Explore the island’s enchanting landscapes and captivating atmosphere by hopping on a bicycle, immersing yourself in the allure of Gili Trawangan’s unparalleled allure.
Gili Meno
In the heart of the Gili archipelago, Gili Meno offers a tranquil escape amidst serene natural beauty. As the smallest and most peaceful of the islands, it boasts powdery white beaches framed by beautiful coral reefs, providing the perfect setting for pure relaxation. For honeymooners seeking romance, Gili Meno offers idyllic charm with attractions like the Meno Wall, Sea Point Turtle, and Point Coral Blue dive spots, along with a picturesque seawater lake and Bird Park.
However, the island’s main draw lies beneath the waves, where visitors can swim among the surreal underwater art piece known as “Nest.” Created by renowned sculptor Jason DeCaires Taylor, this ring of statues doubles as an artificial reef, attracting an abundance of marine life just a shallow 4 metres below the water’s surface. Dive into the crystal-clear waters, immerse yourself in this unique underwater sanctuary, and discover the enchanting allure of Gili Meno.
Gili Air
Between its neighbours, the lively Trawangan and sleepy Meno, Gili Air offers a harmonious blend of tranquillity and activity, making it an ideal retreat for discerning travellers. With its pristine beaches and laid-back atmosphere, the island exudes a sense of serenity, inviting visitors to unwind and immerse themselves in its natural beauty. Perfect for snorkelling enthusiasts, Gili Air boasts excellent underwater spots and a variety of water activities, allowing guests to explore its vibrant marine life.
Delve into the local culture of Gili Air, where you’ll encounter a diverse community and unique traditions distinct from those of Lombok. While the island’s population is more significant than its counterparts, its charming landscape dotted with trees and rustic scenes of everyday life adds to its allure. Navigate the island’s small perimeter by foot or hop on a Cidomo, a traditional horse-drawn carriage, for a leisurely tour, and savour the laid-back ambience of Gili Air, a gem waiting to be discovered.
Menjangan Island
Five miles northwest of Bali is a gem renowned among divers as a sanctuary of marine biodiversity. Translating to “Deer” in Indonesian, it boasts a rich underwater landscape within the West Bali National Park, featuring vibrant coral gardens and an array of marine life. Diving enthusiasts are drawn to its underwater temple, Pura Gili, adding an element of mystique to exploration beneath the waves. Above water, the island offers trekking opportunities through the national park, inviting visitors to marvel at Bali’s diverse flora and fauna.
As the birthplace of serious diving in Bali since 1978, Menjangan Island holds historical significance, attracting pioneers of commercial dive operations across Indonesia. With its intricate coral reefs and complex rock formations, the island provides an exceptional backdrop for wall diving, showcasing an underwater world teeming with life. Macro-photographers and marine biologists are captivated by the mysteries of Secret Bay, where unique currents have created a habitat for rare marine creatures, offering an unparalleled opportunity for exploration and discovery.
Nusa Ceningan
Placed between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida in Bali, Nusa Ceningan offers a serene retreat for travellers seeking tranquillity away from the mainland’s hustle. Connected to Nusa Lembongan by the iconic Yellow Bridge, this idyllic island boasts turquoise lagoons and soft, white-sand beaches.
Adventure enthusiasts can experience the thrill of cliff jumping at the Blue Lagoon or marvel at panoramic views from Secret Point Cliff Jump. Beneath the sparkling turquoise waters lie vibrant coral reefs teeming with exotic sea creatures, creating a paradise for snorkelers and divers alike. For a peaceful escape amidst breathtaking scenery, Nusa Ceningan promises an unforgettable holiday experience.
Nusa Lembongan
Situated Southeast of Bali, Nusa Lembongan beckons travellers with its serene shores and untouched beauty. Accessible by a short boat ride from Sanur Beach, this tranquil island has evolved from a surfer’s haven to a retreat for yoga enthusiasts and food connoisseurs. With minimal development and no cars, Nusa Lembongan offers a peaceful escape, where scooters and foot are the primary modes of transportation.
Visitors can explore its soft white-sand beaches, including Dream Beach, Mushroom Bay, Coconuts Beach, and Jungutbatu Beach, each boasting its own unique charm. Yet, no trip to Nusa Lembongan is complete without witnessing the mesmerising Devil’s Tear, where rugged cliffs meet the untamed ocean, creating a dramatic spectacle, especially during sunset, offering a truly unforgettable experience.
Nusa Penida
Near the southeastern coast of Bali, is a gem waiting to be explored. Despite its smaller size compared to Bali, navigating Nusa Penida demands time, with rough and narrow roads winding through its scenic landscapes. Adventurers can opt for motorbike rentals or hire private cars with drivers to traverse the island’s diverse terrain. The iconic Kelingking Cliff offers breathtaking views of a T-Rex-shaped rock jutting into turquoise waters, while nearby Paluang Cliff offers a quieter alternative with swings and photo platforms. Broken Beach captivates with its circular cove and remnants of an arch, often visited by graceful manta rays.
Those seeking unique accommodations can spend a night in a wooden treehouse, waking up to stunning ocean views and the sounds of nature. In the island’s centre, Teletubbies Hills, named for their resemblance to the children’s show backdrop, offer vibrant greenery during the rainy season, providing a picturesque setting for exploration.
Moyo Island
Nestled east of Bali and north of Sumbawa is a serene escape from the bustling mainland. Accessible by boat from Lombok, this sparsely inhabited gem boasts captivating natural landscapes, from the vibrant blue pools of Mata Jitu Waterfall to its lush jungles teeming with wildlife.
As one of the best islands off Bali’s coast, Moyo Island’s remote charm is undeniable, inviting visitors to explore its pristine beauty. Be sure to venture into its nature reserve, where encounters with wild deer and exotic birds await amidst the backdrop of the Flores Sea’s azure waters.