Beyond Bali: Indonesian Islands Worth Visiting

Choose between Lombok, the Gilis, Flores and Sumba based on how you want to spend your time.

Lombok for beaches and a flexible itinerary

For a first trip beyond Bali, Lombok offers the most flexible choice on this list. Base yourself near Kuta in southern Lombok if beaches are the main event. Make Rinjani the centre of a separate hiking itinerary if the mountain is why you are coming. The trek can occupy multiple days, so choose between it and a beach-focused stay when you have a short break. Lombok destination guide

The Gilis for time in the water

Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno sit off Lombok’s northwest coast. They make sense when you want to snorkel, dive or spend a few days close to the shore. Pick one island as a base. From southern Lombok, reserve half a day as a planning buffer for the drive, harbour wait and boat crossing. Keep that transfer separate from a tight flight connection.

Aerial view of the coastline of a Gili island — The Gilis off the coast of Lombok.

Flores for Komodo and overland travel

Fly to Labuan Bajo for a western Flores itinerary focused on the harbour and boat trips into Komodo National Park. Give the boat excursion its own day. If you also want to explore the interior of Flores, add several days or plan a separate trip. A base in Labuan Bajo is practical for the park and still leaves much of the island a long way by road. Indonesia Tourism’s Labuan Bajo guide

Boats and buildings along the Labuan Bajo waterfront — Labuan Bajo harbour in western Flores.

Sumba for coastlines, villages and longer drives

Sumba makes sense for a slower trip that mixes Indian Ocean scenery with visits to traditional villages. Decide whether your plans are concentrated in the west or east before choosing an airport and a place to stay. Build each day around one area, especially if your plans include both inland villages and the coast. Indonesia Tourism’s Sumba guide

Where to start with three or four days

Choose southern Lombok if you want a beach base and options for day trips. Choose one Gili island if snorkelling is the priority, or Labuan Bajo if you specifically want a Komodo boat trip. Save Sumba for a trip with more room for road travel. Confirm flight and boat schedules for your dates before committing to connections.