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Beyond Bali: 6 Beautiful Beaches to Check Out in Indonesia

So many beaches, so little time. Indonesia is home to more than 17,000 islands, each one with its own share of blissful beaches.

Most travelers who visit the archipelago head straight for Bali, an awe-inspiring island that’s known as the “Land of Gods.” But where is Bali? 

Found in the Indian Ocean, it’s nestled between Lombok and Java at the westernmost part of the Lesser Sunda Islands. It is a mesmerizing island, especially to ocean lovers, with numerous iconic beaches, from secret coves to amazing surf. 

However, with thousands and thousands of other islands in Indonesia, there’s a lot more to this country beyond the beautiful Bali beaches. If you’re still planning a trip and wondering where to stay in Bali, consider carving time out of your itinerary to visit other stunning beaches in Indonesia.

 

 

Tanjung Aan Beach (Lombok)

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Beyond Bali, the most popular beach destination in Indonesia is probably Lombok, a favorite of surfers. Tanjung Aan Beach is a surfing destination with friendly waves for beginners, but it’s also an amazing place for those of us who’d rather lounge by the shore instead of catch barrels. Laid-back travelers head here for its soft white sand, crystalline waters, and a picturesque string of palm trees in the background.  

 

 

Derawan Beach (East Kalimantan)

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In the Berau district of Borneo’s East Kalimantan is Derawan Beach, a sleepy beach town known for its thriving marine life and underwater treasures. Derawan Island is home to a massive population of sea turtles as well as colorful reefs and mangroves. If you’re an avid diver or snorkeler, this is one of the best Indonesian beaches to visit.

 

 

Pink Beach (Komodo Island)

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No, it’s not a filter. Komodo Island’s Pink Beach is actually a pretty shade of pink, the result of the white sand mixing with red corals that get its unique pigment from microscopic organisms called Foraminifera. The romantic hues of the shoreline have made Pink Beach stand out from the other beaches in Komodo Island, the pink sand striking against the dazzling blue waters and rolling verdant hills. 

Keep your eyes peeled for turtles or even the famous Komodo dragon. Book an island hopping tour that takes you to all the best attractions of Komodo Island, including the beautiful Pink Beach.  

 

 

Koka Beach (Flores)

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Head to Flores for a hidden slice of paradise in Koka Beach. Few travelers make their way to this underrated beach, so those who make the trip are likely to be rewarded with peace and quiet. A pristine sandbar splits up the white sand beach into two separate coves, making Koka Beach feel even more of a remote tropical escape.

 

 

Ujung Gelam Beach (Karimunjawa Islands)

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Ujung Gelam Beach, also known as Pantai Tanjung Gelam, is one of Indonesia’s most picturesque destinations with crystal clear turquoise waters, creamy sand, shallow reef, and coconut trees framing the pretty tableau. It’s especially stunning at the end of the day, when locals and tourists flock to the shores to watch the spectacular sunset together.

 

 

Pangandaran Beach (Java Island)

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An underrated gem that’s hailed as one of Java Island’s most beautiful beaches, Pangandaran Beach is characterized by its unique mix of white and black sand. It’s an amazing surfing beach, but Pangandaran also features an expansive stretch of white sand and a marine park to enjoy if you’re not much for catching waves.

 

 

Still eager to explore more of Indonesia’s thousands of beaches? Discover more secluded shores in the archipelago with a KKday tour of Indonesian islands.

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