* Originally published in 2021, updated in 2025 *
Indonesia is a country in Southeast Asia blessed with breathtaking natural beauty and cultural diversity. With over 17,000 islands, it’s a land of contrasts from volcanic peaks and lush rainforests to endless coastlines fringed with palm trees. Add to that a rich cultural heritage with more than 300 ethnic groups, and you’ll find a destination that’s as fascinating as it is beautiful.
Travelling here means stepping into a world of variety. You can hike active volcanoes, dive among coral reefs, wander through colourful villages, or simply stretch out on a quiet beach with nothing but the sound of the waves. And for solo travellers, Indonesia offers both nature and adventure. Some of the islands make it easy to meet others, but also possible to find hidden corners to yourself.
If you’re planning to visit some of the most beautiful islands in Indonesia, this article covers the destinations that are not only breathtakingly stunning but also offer so much more than just sun and sand.
1. Bali
Cultural, Ocean, Spiritual and Wellness Girl about the Globe
Bali is the island that captures hearts again and again. On my most recent trip, I found myself falling for its charm all over, from sunrise strolls along Sanur’s promenade to lazy afternoons in Ubud’s rice terraces.
The island’s appeal lies in its mix of everything: beaches like Kuta and Seminyak for lively days by the sea, spiritual temples like Uluwatu and Tirta Empul for culture, and yoga retreats in Ubud for wellness. Surfers head to Canggu and Uluwatu’s breaks, while adventurers climb Mount Batur in the dark for a sunrise worth every step. Foodies will also be spoilt for choice, with everything from cheap local warungs to high-end dining. And that’s not to mention the beach clubs too.
Bali is also incredibly easy for solo travellers. The infrastructure is excellent, locals are warm, and it’s one of the best places in Southeast Asia to meet fellow travellers, whether in a hostel, a co-working cafe, or climbing a volcano.
2. Lombok
Adventure, Eco, Ocean Girl about the Globe
Lombok is also a little bit less developed than Bali, which means it has fewer tourists while still having some of same activities that you would find in Bali. The best thing about visiting Lombok is touring Mount Rinjani National Park.
Culturally, Lombok is different from Bali. It’s predominantly Muslim, and visiting traditional Sasak villages gives you an insight into weaving traditions and daily life. It’s quieter socially than Bali, but perfect for solos who enjoy nature and slower travel.
Lombok is also a great destination for adventurers and thrill-seekers. The island has limestone cliffs, palm trees, lush rainforests and mountains with spectacular views of the ocean below. There are also plenty of activities to get your adrenaline going.
The beaches are another highlight. Selong Belanak is perfect for beginner surfers, while Pink Beach dazzles with its rose-coloured sand. Head north, and you’ll discover waterfalls like Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile, hidden deep within the jungle.
A Komodo dragon
3. Komodo Island
Wildlife Girl about the Globe
Komodo Island is one of the most unique places in Indonesia. Its famous residents, the Komodo dragons, are reason enough to visit. Most people come here because they want to see these awesome creatures up close and personal.
Seeing these giant lizards in Komodo National Park is definitely a once in a lifetime experience (komodos can grow up to three metres long), especially knowing that they have been roaming here for millions of years.
But the island has more than dragons. Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a paradise for divers and those who love snorkelling. See the shimmers of Pink Beach or visit Padar Island which has one of the most iconic viewpoints in the country after a steep but rewarding climb.
Most travellers explore the park from Labuan Bajo on Flores, joining liveaboard boat tours that combine trekking, diving, snorkelling, and island-hopping. For solos, these tours are a brilliant way to meet others and share the adventure.
4. Gili Islands
Ocean, Party, Wellness Girl about the Globe
Just off Lombok’s coast, the Gili Islands are car-free, laid-back, and unforgettable. Each of the three islands has its own personality.
As a quick summary, Gili Trawangan is the liveliest, known for its parties, beach bars, and fire shows under the stars. Gili Air is more balanced. There’s yoga, snorkelling, and relaxed cafés, with just enough nightlife to keep it interesting. Gili Meno is the smallest and quietest, ideal if you want peace and long walks on empty beaches.
Snorkelling here is incredible, with sea turtles often spotted just offshore. The sunsets are magical too, with swings set up over the water for those picture-perfect moments.
Depending on the time of year that you visit Gili Meno, you’ll find plenty of activities for any solo. For ocean lovers, the island is ideal for fishing, deep-sea diving, boating and swimming. For those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground and delve into social activities, then visiting markets in the village or taking a traditional Balinese dance lesson with one of the locals might work for you! Whatever your preference of activity, this small island definitely has something to keep you active on your trip.
Gili Air is a more laid-back island than the other two islands and is popular for its fun activities. One of these is snorkelling in the blue waters for dazzling tropical fish, spotted sharks, colourful coral reefs, and magnificent sea turtles, and at times you may even cross paths with playful dolphins.
There are lots of things to do on the island. You can also try your hand at fishing, lay on the beach under a shady palm tree or dine in one of the restaurants offering menus with international cuisine from Asian to Mediterranean dishes.
Gili Trawangan is where you see more backpackers relaxing on the beach than on any other island in the region. The popular party scene usually takes place around Billy’s Bar at night time while listening to live music or watching hypnotic fire shows.
Another good reason for visiting these beautiful islands is to enjoy a scrumptious fresh seafood lunch at one of the many restaurants that offer great service. Gili Islands are also scenically perfect, with lush vegetation such as banana palms and gorgeous watercolour sunsets.
5. West Papua (formerly Irian Jaya)
Cultural, Tribal Girl about the Globe
West Papua is one of Indonesia’s most remote regions, and travelling here can feel like stepping back in time. Its landscapes are spectacular, from the Baliem Valley’s lush highlands to the marine paradise of Raja Ampat, often called the best diving destination in the world. The coral reefs here are pristine, teeming with marine life, and draw divers from around the globe.
The cultural side is just as fascinating. Just as the mainland: Papua New Guinea, where I visited the Skeleton and Mudmen tribe in 2025), West Papua is also home to hundreds of tribes, each with its own language and traditions. Visiting villages with a local guide offers a rare glimpse into ancient ways of life.
That said, Papua isn’t the easiest or safest destination. Parts of the highlands have experienced tribal conflicts and unrest, making independent travel difficult. For this reason, most travellers focus on Raja Ampat or join organised tours for trekking in the Baliem Valley. It’s not ideal for first-time solos, but for experienced travellers, it’s unforgettable.
6. Sumba Island
Cultural, Ocean Girl about the Globe
Sumba is rugged, raw, and beautifully authentic. Unlike many of Indonesia’s better-known islands, it hasn’t been overtaken by tourism, which is exactly why it has such an untamed appeal. The island is quietly gaining a reputation among surfers. Its southwestern and southeastern coastlines catch consistent swells throughout the dry season (May to October). One of the world’s most acclaimed waves, Occy’s Left, breaks just offshore at Nihiwatu but it remains exclusive, reserved for guests at the luxury Nihi Sumba resort.
Off the beaten path, Sumba rewards explorers with its cultural depth. Traditional villages such as Wainyapu, known for its megalithic dolmens, offer a rare glimpse into customs that remain rooted in ancestral spirituality and communal life. It’s the kind of place where ceremonies, weaving traditions, and village rituals are woven into everyday life, not just staged for visitors.
And while infrastructure may be basic with thatched-roof houses, remote coastal roads, and local guesthouses, Sumba’s remoteness is exactly part of its charm. Now, it’s also becoming known for wellness with spa safaris and equine yoga experiences against stunning natural backdrops
7. Nusa Penida Island
Adventure, Nature Girl about the Globe
Just a short boat ride from Bali, Nusa Penida feels wilder and more dramatic. The island’s cliffs drop into turquoise seas, and viewpoints like Kelingking Cliff which is shaped like a T-Rex, are among the most photographed in Indonesia.
Other highlights include Angel’s Billabong, a natural infinity pool, and Broken Beach with its spectacular sea arch. You can take a snorkelling trip to swim with manta rays (a bucket-list experience). Other beautiful places on the island include Broken Beach, Crystal Bay and Tembeling Beach.
The roads are steep and bumpy, so exploring here feels like an adventure. Many people come on day trips, but staying overnight means you’ll get quieter mornings and sunsets without the crowds. For solos, it’s best to hire a driver or join a tour unless you’re very confident on a scooter.
8. Flores Island
Cultural, Nature Girl about the Globe
Flores is one of Indonesia’s hidden gems, full of variety and charm but less busy than Bali. The island is most famous for Kelimutu volcano, whose three crater lakes shimmer in different colours; emerald, turquoise, and even deep black (depending on the minerals in the water). Seeing them at sunrise is magical.
But Flores is more than just volcanoes. In Wae Rebo, a mountain village of cone-shaped houses, you can spend the night and experience daily life with local families. Elsewhere on the island, there are waterfalls, caves, and quiet beaches waiting to be discovered. Offshore, swimming with whale sharks is an unforgettable adventure.
Labuan Bajo, on the western tip, has grown into a lively town and a launch point for Komodo National Park. It’s also a great place for solo travellers to meet others before heading out on a boat trip.
Practical Tips for Solo Travellers in Indonesia
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When to go: The dry season (April to October) is best for sunshine and outdoor adventures. July and August are busiest, so try May, June, or September for good weather without the crowds. I re-visited Bali in late November and it was rainy season but I was still able to go to the beach.
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Getting around: Flying is the quickest way to cover long distances. Fast boats connect nearby islands like Bali, Lombok, and Nusa Penida. On land, scooters are common, but hiring a driver is safer if you’re not confident.
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Visas: Many nationalities can get a 30-day visa on arrival, extendable once. If you are travelling between the mainland and an island, you may need to pay for another 30-day visa though even if you’re only transiting (this happened to me flying from Timor Leste via Bali to Jakarta). There’s also an e-VOA option if you want to apply online before your trip.
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Safety: Indonesia is generally safe for solo female travellers. Bali, the Gilis, and Flores are especially comfortable. Take extra care on Nusa Penida’s cliffs and roads. West Papua requires caution so stick to guided tours or Raja Ampat if you do go.
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Money: The currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). ATMs are easy to find in tourist areas, but bring cash for smaller islands.
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Meeting others: Hostels, yoga retreats, dive schools, and boat trips are perfect for connection. Even in quieter areas, locals are friendly and often keen to chat.
Final Thoughts
Indonesia is such a surprising part of the world. One moment you’re sharing a beach with sea turtles, the next you’re learning about ancient rituals in a mountain village. Each island has its own flavour, its own pace, and its own story.
Whether you’re a Wellness Girl about the Globe heading for yoga in Ubud, a Party Girl dancing under the stars on one of the Gili islands or an Eco Girl chasing waterfalls in Flores, there’s an island here that’s perfect for you.
