9 places to go in Indonesia – that aren’t Bali

With its vibrant culture, lush landscapes and beautiful beaches, Bali might steal the spotlight in Indonesia, but beyond, there’s an entire enticing archipelago to discover. These are the best places to go in Indonesia.

Where in Indonesia should I visit?

1. Lombok

A short hop from Bali, Lombok is an excellent choice for families seeking a quieter escape. Here you can enjoy pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the impressive Mount Rinjani. Families can swim and snorkel in the calm waters of Selong Belanak Beach or embark on hikes through lush landscapes leading to waterfalls. The island’s untouched nature ensures a laid-back atmosphere while offering plenty of activities for all ages.

2. Sumba

If you’re looking for a destination that feels off the beaten path, Sumba is it. Known for its stunning beaches and lush forests, the island offers a chance to experience its rich traditions and unique horse tradition. Home to the Sumba horse, a small yet strong breed central to local life, you can witness these horses in ceremonies and daily activities. Or visit traditional villages to watch vibrant dances and rites showcasing the island culture

3. Sumatra

Sumatra is a great destination for families who enjoy exploring the wild. The island’s thick rainforests, active volcanoes, and rich wildlife make it an ideal choice for those who want to connect with nature. Families can trek to see orangutans in Bukit Lawang, hike around Lake Toba, or explore the stunning wildlife of Gunung Leuser National Park

4. Gili Islands

Three islands. No cars. Just bicycles, scooters and the occasional horse. Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air are all small but offer big adventures. Gili Trawangan’s where the party’s at, but if you want a bit of peace, Gili Meno and Gili Air have your back. Snorkel with turtles, cycle the island’s dirt tracks, or just sit back and let the sea breeze remind you what you came for

5. Raja Ampat

For families passionate about marine conservation, Raja Ampat is a must-visit destination. Located in West Papua, this remote archipelago is home to some of the world’s most biodiverse coral reefs with crystal-clear waters and abundant sea life, including sea turtles and fish so colourful they look photoshopped.

6. Wakatobi

Located in South-east Sulawesi, Wakatobi is known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. As part of the Coral Triangle, it offers some of the world’s best dive sites, with crystal-clear waters and colourful coral gardens. The island also features beautiful beaches, lush jungles, and traditional villages, giving visitors a chance to experience local culture with a side of nature.

Read more: Wakatobi Dive Resort with kids

7. Nusa Islands

The Nusa Islands – Lembongan, Ceningan, and Penida – each have their own charm. Nusa Lembongan is perfect for families wanting to laze on beautiful beaches or enjoy water sports and snorkelling. Nusa Ceningan is quieter and offers a more relaxed atmosphere for those looking for solitude. And then there’s Nusa Penida and its dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches and insane snorkelling spots.

Read more: Bali’s best day trips: Alternative islands and west Bali

8. Kalimantan

Kalimantan, the Indonesian part of Borneo, offers an incredible opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts. The region is home to vast rainforests, rivers, and, of course, its famous orangutans. Families can embark on boat tours through the jungles of Tanjung Puting National Park into orangutan territory. The flamed-hued critters may be the stars here, but Kalimantan’s natural beauty provides a worthy supporting act.

9. Flores & Komodo

Situated in eastern Indonesia, Flores is what happens when nature gets a little bit crazy. Here, families can hike to see the famous multi-coloured Kelimutu Crater Lakes or visit traditional villages to learn about the island’s customs. Just off the coast of Flores lies Komodo Island, home to the legendary Komodo dragons, where adventurous families can get up close (though not too close) to the giant prehistoric lizards.

Which part of Indonesia is the best?

It all depends on what you want from your holiday! For relaxation, Lombok and the Nusa Islands, wildlife enthusiasts can’t miss Sumatra, Kalimantan and Komodo, whilst water babies will love Raja Ampat and Wakatobi.

Where should I go for the first time in Indonesia?

Bali is a staple for Aussie families and has so many great family friendly resorts that offer all-inclusive stays, kids clubs and plenty of activities. If you are looking to steer clear of Bali, Lombok offers a more secluded stay, only a short distance from Bali, still offering fun for all ages.

This article originally appeared in Holidays with Kids magazine. Subscribe to the latest issue here.

Keep reading:

• Where to go in Bali: The best towns and regions for kids
• Feeling lucky? Check out our latest competitions

Indonesia family accommodation