Indonesia
Beach Holidays

Where to go on a beach holiday in Indonesia?

Indonesia’s bustling archipelago is bursting with a kaleidoscope of colours and cultures, offering a multitude of breath-taking and secluded beaches for beach lovers to discover. From the ever-popular Bali to the hidden gems of Sulawesi, Indonesia is a beach paradise with something for every explorer. For those looking to escape the crowds, Lombok’s untouched, pink-tinged shores and aquamarine waters are ideal for swimming, sunbathing and enjoying a sundowner as dusk turns the coastline a stunning shade of gold. And the Gili Islands, with their laid-back vibe and clear waters teeming with marine life, provide a perfect respite for those seeking relaxation on a beach holiday in Indonesia. Dare to venture further and you'll be rewarded with the wild beauty of Komodo Island, home to yet more stunning pink-hued beaches and, of course, prehistoric Komodo dragons. Head below the waves at Raja Ampat to find a mesmerising underwater world, with pristine silky, white-sand beaches, colourful coral gardens and an abundance of exotic marine life. For the ultimate back of beyond experience on an Indonesian beach holiday, journey to the far-flung corners of Wakatobi, a paradise for divers, with its unspoiled beaches, crystal-clear waters and thriving underwater ecosystems.

Best time to go on an Indonesia beach holiday?

As a vast archipelago with a tropical climate, Indonesia’s weather varies significantly from region to region. The whole area does, however, experience a dry season, which usually runs from May to September. During the dry season, the weather is typically bright and balmy, making it the ideal time for an Indonesian beach holiday and getting stuck into water-based activities such as swimming, snorkelling and diving. The sea is generally calm and clear during this time, so it’s easier to spot all kinds of underwater flora and fauna. However, it's worth noting that the dry season is also the busiest and most crowded time of year, particularly in the hot spot beach destinations like Bali. If you're looking for a more peaceful and secluded beach holiday in Indonesia, the shoulder seasons of April to May and from September to October might suit you better. The weather during these months is still mild, but the crowds are smaller.

What can you get up to on a beach holiday in Indonesia?

- Surfing in Indonesia is some of the best in the world, with world-class breaks such as Uluwatu and Padang Padang in Bali, Nias Island in North Sumatra, and Mentawai Islands off the coast of West Sumatra.
- In addition to surfing, Indonesia offers a wide range of adrenaline-fuelled water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding and jet skiing. These activities are available across many of Indonesia’s beach destinations and provide a fun way to explore the coastline.
- Indonesia is known for its incredible underwater world, with vibrant coral reefs, colourful fish and a whole host of marine life. The Gili Islands, Raja Ampat and Komodo Island are just a few of the top spots for snorkelling and diving.
- With a seemingly endless number of stunning beaches to explore, beach hopping is a must. From the black sand beaches of Lovina in Bali to the pink sand beaches of Komodo Island, beach hopping is a great way to discover the diverse beauty of Indonesia's coastline.
- With its laid-back vibe and tranquil atmosphere, Indonesia is an excellent destination for those seeking ultimate R&R. Whether you want to delve into a book on the beach or indulge in a spa treatment, there are plenty of ways to unwind and recharge.