Bali is one of the most unique destinations on the planet because of the absolutely staggering amount of variety one can experience and anytime is the best time to visit Bali. Indonesia itself is home to many thousands of islands and almost a thousand of these are inhabited – each offering their own reason for visiting. We thought we’d round up some of our favorites.
Getting around and between these islands doesn’t have to be difficult either. A quick ferry ride is all you’ll ever need and this convenient service can get you wherever you need to go with little effort.
These are the five islands we would never miss if we were planning a trip to Bali.
1. Moyo Island
This one’s a bit further than some might want to go, but don’t let that stop you. Moyo Island has little in the way of development and offers visitors to its shores a unique escape from many of the things you’d usually expect from a tourist destination like Bali. You’ll find the Moyo Island Hunting Park here, which spans much of the island and is surrounded by a marine reserve, so this really is an almost untouched natural paradise. If you’re partial to a bit of snorkeling or scuba diving, definitely add Moyo Island to your list.
2. Lombok
Lombok is perhaps one of the more popular islands in the area for those looking to explore off the beaten path, and for good reason. This one is all about the natural landscapes which are scattered around the island like they were thrown there from above. Waterfalls and beach towns are the nature of the visit here, as well as Mount Rinjani which boasts being the highest mountain (and volcano) in Indonesia.
3. Gili Islands
The Gili Islands are a group of three small islands white close to Lombok, so it might even be worth building them into the same trip. Each of the three islands offers its own attractions, but they are all equally worth visiting. Gili Trawangan is where you’ll be heading if you’re looking for a nightlife experience and incredible sunsets – many backpackers come here. If you’re looking more for a more romantic experience, then Gili Meno is where you’ll be heading. It’s a snorkeling paradise and a visit here isn’t complete without a romantic walk on the beach and a dinner to follow. Gili Air is the last of these three islands but by no means the one you should skip. It has grassroots feel about it and if you want the experience of the local culture and way of life, this is where you’ll get it.
4. Nusa Penida
The Island of Nusa Penida is a day trip that you won’t regret. It’s a big island, but a day is plenty of time to spend there. Don’t miss a quick visit to Kelingking Beach and some of the majestic views from the higher points on the island.
5. Java
Of course, not visiting Java while you’re in Bali is something you simply can’t do. It’s about 600 km from Bali, but Java is the quintessential Indonesian experience. The island is filled with cultural sights and heritage and you could spend most of your holiday here and be entertained the whole time. Things you’ll need to see while you’re visiting Java are some of the temples and architectural splendors, as well as the ancient Hindu temples you’ll find here. Keep plenty of time available for your trip to Java!
Whichever islands you end up visiting during your trip to Bali, you’re in for a sensory and cultural overload. Just thinking about it makes us want to go back!
We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.
