More than 17,000 islands, each wrapped in turquoise waters and golden sands — is a paradise that every traveler dreams of. From the famous surf breaks in Bali to the untouched shores of Raja Ampat, every beach has its own story, mood, and charm.
As someone who has spent countless days exploring these coastal wonders, I can confidently say: Indonesia’s beaches are not just places — they’re emotions. So pack your swimsuit, grab your sunscreen, and let’s dive into the 20 most beautiful beaches in Indonesia that you must visit at least once in your lifetime.
1. Kuta Beach, Bali — The Heartbeat of Island Vibes
No list of Indonesian beaches is complete without Kuta Beach. Once a quiet fishing village, Kuta is now the vibrant soul of Bali’s surf and sunset scene.
Why it’s special:
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Legendary surf waves perfect for beginners
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Breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky gold
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Endless cafes, beach bars, and nightlife
Traveler’s tip: Arrive around 5 p.m. for the sunset. Grab a fresh coconut or a cold Bintang beer, find a seat in the sand, and just watch the colors melt into the horizon.
Best time to visit: April to October (dry season).
2. Nusa Dua Beach, Bali — The Elegant Escape
For those seeking calm waters and luxury, Nusa Dua is the perfect spot. Located in southern Bali, this beach is lined with five-star resorts and manicured gardens, yet its natural beauty remains untouched.
Highlights:
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Calm waves ideal for swimming and snorkeling
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White sand so soft it feels like powder
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Beachfront dining under the stars
Traveler’s tip: Rent a kayak early in the morning when the sea is glassy and peaceful.
3. Seminyak Beach, Bali — Trendy, Chic, and Classy
Seminyak Beach blends tropical luxury with modern lifestyle. Think beach clubs, designer boutiques, and gourmet brunches by the ocean.
Why travelers love it:
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Iconic beach clubs like Potato Head & Ku De Ta
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Smooth golden sands and strong surf breaks
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Perfect sunsets every evening
Insider vibe: It’s where you’ll find a mix of locals, surfers, digital nomads, and fashion enthusiasts — all sharing one beautiful horizon.
4. Jimbaran Bay, Bali — Seafood Paradise by the Sea
At Jimbaran Bay, the air smells of grilled seafood and salty breeze. It’s a calm, family-friendly beach that comes alive at sunset when dozens of seafood restaurants set up tables right on the sand.
Must-try: Freshly grilled snapper, prawns, and squid with spicy sambal matah.
Traveler’s tip: Come around 6 p.m. — have dinner while the sun dips into the ocean.
5. Sanur Beach, Bali — Sunrise Serenity
While most travelers chase sunsets, Sanur Beach is Bali’s sunrise gem. With calm, shallow waters and a long coastal path, it’s ideal for cycling, jogging, or a peaceful morning walk.
Highlights:
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Perfect for families
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Beautiful coral reefs just offshore
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A sunrise that feels like a quiet promise of the day
Best time: Early morning, around 5:30–6:00 a.m.
6. Pink Beach, Komodo Island — A Rare Wonder
One of only seven pink beaches in the world, this Komodo Island beauty is truly one of nature’s miracles. The sand glows with a blush hue, caused by red coral fragments mixing with white sand.
Why it’s magical:
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Stunning coral reefs for snorkeling
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Rare pink-colored sand
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Surrounded by the dramatic hills of Komodo National Park
Traveler’s tip: Bring your snorkeling gear — you might spot turtles or even baby reef sharks!
7. Tanjung Aan, Lombok — The Curved Paradise
With its twin bays of turquoise water and soft white sand, Tanjung Aan feels like a natural amphitheater of beauty. The hills surrounding the bay create perfect photo spots.
Highlights:
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Perfect swimming conditions
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“Merese Hill” viewpoint nearby
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Local warungs serving fresh coconut juice
Best time: May to October.
8. Senggigi Beach, Lombok — Sunset and Solitude
Senggigi Beach is where Lombok’s charm meets tranquility. Less crowded than Bali, it’s ideal for those who want to escape the buzz and soak in the raw island beauty.
Why it’s special:
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Dramatic sunsets over Bali’s Mount Agung
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Excellent snorkeling near the reef edge
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Peaceful resorts along the coastline
9. Gili Trawangan Beach, Lombok — Party Meets Paradise
Among the famous Gili Islands, Gili Trawangan is the most energetic. By day, crystal-clear waters invite you to dive and snorkel; by night, the beach transforms into a lively party hub.
Fun tip: Rent a bicycle (no cars here!) and circle the island in just over an hour.
Don’t miss: The Gili sunset swings — perfect for photos.
10. Gili Meno Beach — The Romantic Escape
Gili Meno is the quiet, dreamy sister of Gili T. It’s perfect for honeymooners or anyone seeking peace. The coral gardens here are among the best in Indonesia.
Highlight: The underwater statues — a hauntingly beautiful dive site surrounded by schools of fish.
11. Dreamland Beach, Bali — Hidden Between Cliffs
Located on the Bukit Peninsula, Dreamland Beach is a surfer’s secret hideaway. Towering cliffs surround this beach, creating a natural amphitheater where waves crash dramatically.
Why it’s loved:
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Majestic limestone backdrop
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Great waves for intermediate surfers
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Secluded yet accessible
12. Padang Padang Beach, Bali — The Movie Star Beach
Featured in Eat Pray Love, Padang Padang is small but breathtaking. You reach it through a narrow rock passage that opens to turquoise waters and golden sand.
Best for: Swimmers, photographers, and surfers chasing perfect waves.
13. Crystal Bay, Nusa Penida — Dive into Clarity
Crystal Bay truly lives up to its name. Its water is so clear you can see marine life from above. It’s one of the best spots in Bali for snorkeling and diving.
What you’ll find:
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Vibrant coral gardens
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Manta rays and sunfish sightings
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Sunset views that steal the show
14. Atuh Beach, Nusa Penida — The Cliffside Wonder
To reach Atuh Beach, you’ll hike down a cliffside staircase — and every step is worth it. When you finally see the curved bay surrounded by towering rock formations, it’s pure magic.
Tip: Bring water and wear good shoes. The descent is steep but stunning.
15. Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida — The T-Rex Icon
No photo of Bali is more famous than the T-Rex-shaped cliff of Kelingking Beach. It’s one of the most photographed places in Indonesia.
Traveler’s tip: The hike down to the beach is tough but rewarding — bring plenty of water.
Best time: Early morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
16. Derawan Beach, East Kalimantan — The Turtle Paradise
Derawan Island is an untouched treasure in Borneo’s waters. It’s famous for sea turtles that nest right on the beach and manta rays that glide gracefully offshore.
Why it’s unique:
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Transparent waters
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Rare marine biodiversity
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Remote, peaceful charm
17. Bunaken Beach, North Sulawesi — Diving Heaven
If you love diving, Bunaken National Park is paradise on Earth. It’s home to one of the richest marine ecosystems in the world.
Highlights:
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Coral walls dropping hundreds of meters
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Sea turtles, reef sharks, and vibrant coral reefs
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Calm waters for snorkeling
18. Ora Beach, Seram Island — Indonesia’s Maldives
Hidden in Maluku, Ora Beach is often compared to the Maldives — overwater bungalows, emerald seas, and jungle-covered cliffs. It’s romantic, remote, and unbelievably beautiful.
Tip: Book early — accommodations are limited but worth every moment.
19. Raja Ampat Beaches, West Papua — The Crown Jewel
If Indonesia had a crown, Raja Ampat would be the shining gem. It’s not just one beach but a collection of hundreds of islets, lagoons, and powder-white sands.
Why it’s world-famous:
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Crystal-clear waters perfect for diving
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Unparalleled coral diversity
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Untouched island landscapes
Best for: Experienced travelers and nature lovers who crave pure isolation.
20. Belitung’s Tanjung Tinggi Beach — The Granite Marvel
Tanjung Tinggi Beach in Belitung is famous for its giant granite boulders scattered across white sand. The contrast between gray stones, blue sea, and green trees creates a surreal landscape.
Fun fact: The beach was featured in the famous Indonesian movie Laskar Pelangi.
Traveler’s tip: Climb a few rocks for the best panoramic view of the bay.
🌺 Final Thoughts: The Endless Summer of Indonesia
Every beach in Indonesia has its own rhythm — some dance with waves and laughter, others whisper stories of peace and time. Whether you’re watching the sunset at Kuta, diving with turtles in Derawan, or standing in awe at Raja Ampat, you’ll realize one truth: Indonesia is not just a destination — it’s a feeling that stays with you forever.
So wherever you go, go barefoot, breathe deeply, and let the ocean remind you how beautiful life can be.