Natasha EffendyThere is one thing that Indonesia never fails to provide: incredible island getaways. Whether it’s the surf-worthy shores of Bali or the scenic landscapes of Samosir Island, the Emerald of the Equator is bound to have numerous spots for a quick vacation. If you’ve been meaning to get away from the hubbub of the city, here are 12 stunning Indonesian islands — most of which are near Singapore — to consider for your next vacation.
Top Indonesian islands near Singapore for a quick getaway
1. Bintan Island
Image credit: CHUTTERSNAP
Bintan Island is located within the Riau Archipelago. As one of the best Indonesian islands near Singapore, you’re going to love its portfolio of outdoor activities! Other than amazing golf courses, Bintan is most famous for its triathlon. As a first-timer, you can expect a fun-filled day of watersports, races, and parties by night.
However, if a triathlon doesn’t seem enticing to you, you can just book a staycation at Bintan Resort. During the day, you can stroll along and admire Trikora Beach. After that, you can learn more about Chinese culture and go sightseeing in Senggarang. When it’s time to eat, you can go to Sebung Village for the best seafood on the island!
Also read: 11 Seriously Cool Things to Do in Bintan on Your Next Getaway
2. Cempedak Island
Image credit: Cempedak Island Official Website
For introverts who are looking for a vacation, there are many private Indonesian islands to consider. Cempedak Island is arguably the most famous one, and it’s located nine kilometres off the coast of Bintan. Once you arrive, it’s literally love at first sight because the whole island is stunning. Simply imagine this: smooth sand beaches, white granite boulders, and a lush rainforest with unique wildlife that’s meant to be explored.
Note: The island doesn’t allow children under the age of 16.
3. Nikoi Island
Image credit: Nikoi Island Official Website
On the other hand, if you’re a family with young kids, you can stay on Nikoi Island which is a “sister island” to Cempedak. While the former private getaway paradise boasts rich land wildlife, Nikoi is most famous for its coral gardens. You can witness the corals in their full glory by snorkelling down in the shallow waters of the Sunda Shelf.
Besides snorkelling, the island does offer more watersports to occupy your days: kayaking, windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and scuba diving.
4. Joyo Island
Image credit: Joyo Island Resort Official Facebook Page
Joyo Island is another worthy addition to the list of famous islands near Singapore. Luxury and beaches are two of the top tourist attractions here, and you can rent a villa during your stay. First-timers will be graced with a lot of picturesque scenery, gourmet dining experiences, and many opportunities to explore the island.
For the more adventurous vacationers, you can go snorkelling and try Indonesian-style fishing. We guarantee these activities will enrich your trip!
5. Batam Island
Image credit: Indonesia Travel Official Website
When you’re looking for an alternative to Bintan, you can definitely consider Batam Island. It’s one of the top Indonesian islands near Singapore that’s also very tourist-friendly. For starters, the island has shopping malls and duty-free shops. In terms of recreational activities, there are many beach resorts, sports clubs, and spa villages.
When you’re in Batam, sightseeing is a must-do. The Barelang Bridge is a set of six swinging bridges that connects the island to Rempang Island and Galang Island. Within 20 minutes, you’ll be able to cover the full two-kilometre distance and soak in the views of the ocean and nearby villages.
Also read: 12 Fun Things to Do in Batam for Your Next Weekend Getaway
6. Telunas Private Island
Image credit: Telunas Resorts Official Facebook Page
Likewise, you can fall into the world of a tropical paradise on Telunas Private Island. With its strategic location, Telunas has been acknowledged as one of the top islands near Singapore. Here, you can stay at an overwater villa and soak in an infinity pool. Alternatively, you can rent a beachside bungalow at Telunas Beach Resort and get a taste of fine dining with the sunset.
Either way, you’ll get to savour what this unforgettable Indonesian island has to offer — starry nights, seaside views, and a clear head.
7. Gili Islands
Image credit: Danny de Groot
The Gili Islands refer to the group of three smaller islands: Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. Together, they form three of the best Indonesian islands near Singapore. One of the best ways to explore the Gili archipelago would be through a tour on a glass-bottomed boat. You’ll get to see the ocean underneath your feet, and some packages also include additional experiences like snorkelling, island hopping, or diving.
Also read: The Ultimate 3D2N Gili Guide
8. Lombok Island
Image credit: Danny de Groot
After your trip to Bali, why don’t you consider exploring Lombok Island, too? It’s truly one of the iconic Indonesian islands near Singapore for surfing. If that interests you, then you have to go to Senggigi Beach, where the waves are consistent and easy for beginners. On that note, Lombok is also pretty famous for its secluded beaches — you can wind down at Pink Beach and Mawun Beach.
If you’re done with surfing, let’s go sightseeing! Some of the top attractions include Mount Rinjani, Pusuk Monkey Forest, and Tanjung Aan. In the northern part of the island, you can visit several waterfalls like Sendang Gile, Tiu Teja, and Tiu Kelep. We recommend standing directly under the shower of rushing water to top off your trip.
Also read: Top 11 Things to Do in Lombok, Indonesia’s Island Gem
Notable Indonesian islands that are worth visiting
While these Indonesian islands are not located near Singapore, they are still worth visiting regardless. They’re mostly accessible via connecting flights, buses, and ferry rides.
9. Belitung Island
Image credit: Dolf van der Haven
Belitung Island is one-half of Bangka Belitung, an island located off the east coast of Sumatra. Many have claimed the island as a great alternative to Langkawi in Malaysia because there are fewer crowds and equally beautiful scenery. At Tanjung Tinggi and Tanjung Kelayang, you’ll discover the granite stones lining these beaches. Especially with the pristine sand and the clear waters, there’s a potential to partake in beach-related fun along the coasts.
Later in the day, you can head to Tanjung Pandan for sightseeing. The town is famous for its colourful harbour, as well as Dutch colonial architecture. After that, you have to head to Pulau Lengkuas to snorkel in crystal clear waters and visit the 19th-century lighthouse.
Average travel time between Singapore and Belitung Island: Six hours and 15 minutes
10. Weh Island
Image credit: Axel Drainville
To all the marine animal lovers and skilled divers out there, there’s an island for you! Specifically, Weh Island is a small volcanic island that’s a two-hour ferry ride from Banda Aceh. When you’re diving under the Andaman Sea, you’ll come across a unique sight. Among coral reefs and schools of fish, you’ll discover shipwreck remains and underwater canyons.
Besides jungle trekking in the rainforests, you can go on a bit of a treasure hunt to Pria Laot Waterfall and Goa Sarang Bay Cave. Altogether, these top attractions will show you a different side of the island.
Average travel time between Singapore and Weh Island: Five hours 55 minutes
11. Karimunjawa Islands
Image credit: Midori
The Karimunjawa Islands are a group of 27 islands in the Java Sea. As with many islands, there are gorgeous coasts and secluded beaches aplenty. Island hopping, snorkelling, and sunset watching are the top three things to do. While Ujung Gelam Beach is famous for being the prettiest beach on the islands, the best spot for hilltop views would be Karimunjawa Love Hill. At night, you can head to Karimunjawa Square for seafood and BBQ.
One of the best islands to check out in this unique archipelago would be Karimunbesar Island. It’s famous for Karimun Jawa National Park, which is home to five major ecosystems. But if sightseeing is not your thing, there are a range of numerous nature-friendly activities you can do: Hiking, mangrove trekking, island hopping, and diving.
Average travel time between Singapore and Karimunjawa Islands: 11 hours
Also read: Jakarta to Yogyakarta by Train: An Easy Guide for This Scenic Train Journey in Indonesia
That’s all folks! These are the 12 most incredible islands near Singapore for a short vacation. No matter which one you choose, you’ll definitely never want to leave.
Featured image credit: Jorge Láscar | Flickr
