Indonesia has got 17000 islands; 922 inhabited. Out of these, there is this land of laid back kaleidoscopic dusk & dawns, deep-rooted spirituality, volcanic rises, magnificent temples, monkey swings, and lush green vegetation to escape – Bali. And while there is a long list of tourist attractions in Bali, the world right outside this island can’t be ignored either. In fact, the best islands around Bali are must-visit destinations; especially if you are on a romantic holiday. These Indonesian islands located around Bali are not only known for their picturesqueness but are also admired for their culture and welcoming people.
Top 10 Islands Around Bali In 2023
And, here comes the list of holiday islands near Bali to visit, that will make up for your perfect island hopping. In case you’re planning a honeymoon in Bali, you wouldn’t want to miss out on these. Each of them is loved for culture, natural beauty, and more. Check them out!
- Nusa Lembongan – For A Romantic Getaway
- Nusa Ceningan – For Serenity
- Nusa Penida – Birdwatcher’s Paradise
- Lombok – A Kaleidoscopic Beauty
- Menjangan Island – Wonderland Of Underwater
- Gili Trawangan – For A Hippie Experience
- Gili Gede – A Hidden Gem
- Gili Meno – Prime Honeymoon Destination
- Komodo Island – For Wildlife Enthusiasts
- Java – Experience Mini Indonesia
1. Nusa Lembongan – For A Romantic Getaway
If you are looking for a slower version of Bali, Nusa Lembongan is the place to be. Sans traffic, sans hawkers, and with the best of the accommodations – this island is one of the most romantic getaways from Bali. The island does not allow any four-wheeler movements and that explains the no traffic thing. The locals either walk or cycle around. And so can you!
While on a romantic holiday in Bali, one just can’t afford to miss this 20 year old version of Bali as it has got an enormous amount of adventurous activities to offer. The island has got picturesque villages to escape into, gorgeous aquamarine life to explore, and thick mangrove forests to boat into; thereby making it ideal for a honeymoon trip. This is one of the most beautiful islands to visit around Bali.
Distance from Bali: 55 km
How to reach: Via Sanur Beach or Benoa Harbour; fast boats take 30 minutes and local slow boats take more than 90
Things to do in Nusa Lembongan: Paddleboarding, surfing, snorkeling with mantas, cliff jumping, diving, & romantic walks through the villages
Best restaurants: Muntigs Bar & Restaurant, Blue Corner Bar & Restaurant – Lembongan
Best places to stay: Pattri Garden Lembongan, The Tamarind Resort Nusa Lembongan
Best time to visit: May to September
Must Read: 14 Nusa Dua Resorts For Travelers To Indulge Into A Luxurious Stay Experience
Bali Honeymoon Packages On TravelTriangle
2. Nusa Ceningan – For Serenity
A retreat into the forgotten Lands! Once easily accessible via a rickety yellow bridge from Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan is famous as the forgotten notorious cousin of Bali island. Even less crowded, the island is known for seaweed farming and adventure. This little stony gem has got a 12 metre high cliff jumping point called Blue Lagoon that calls for the attention of all dare devils. And for the romantics, there’s a whole lot of beauty to enjoy. It is easily one of the best islands to visit near Bali.
Distance from Bali: 57 km
How to reach: Cross the bridge from Nusa Lembongan
Things to do in Nusa Ceningan: Cliff diving, village walks, boating, and understanding seaweed farming
Best restaurants: Ria Warung, Ceningan Cliffs
Best places to stay: The Palms Ceningan Hotel, Avia Villa Ceningan
Best time to visit: May to September
Suggested Read: I Had Fun Breaking Stereotypes. Here’s How I Traveled An Entire Week In Bali On A Budget!
3. Nusa Penida – Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Besides every expected perk that a typical Indonesian island would offer, the Nusa Penida has bird watching opportunities that are complemented by excursions to some of the oldest found caves of Indonesia. The island of rugged caves has got a Crystal Bay that boasts of pristine white sand stretches and crystal clear waters for the couples to explore. The beauty of FNPF Bird Sanctuary in the Ped Village only adds to reasons that make this destination rank among the most wonderful nearby islands near Bali.
Distance from Bali: 66 km
How to reach: By speedboats and public ferries from Bali via Sanu, also from Nusa Lembongan via public boats
Things to do in Nusa Penida: Birdwatching, cave excursion to the famous Giri Putri Caves in Pakraman village, and scuba diving with your significant special
Best restaurants: Warung Nengah Mesin, Tiagan Pork Satay
Best places to stay: The Angkal Resort Nusa Penida, Ananta Bungalow
Best time to visit: May to September
Suggested Read: 20 Mind-Blowing Water Sports In Bali For The Thrill Seeker In You!
4. Lombok – A Kaleidoscopic Beauty
A large volcano island off the east coast of Bali, Lombok is the most kaleidoscopic beauty around Bali. After your Bali island tour, when you are all set to explore islands close to Bali, Lombok is something that one can’t afford to miss. The south of the island has got a namesake of the Kuta in Bali; another Kuta in Lombok. Now this Kuta is considerably less crowded and has got some of the most spectacular beaches of Indonesia, making it a must-visit destination for the couples.
In the north part of the island lies the Mount Rinjani that houses scenic waterfalls. The mountain also has a fiery active volcano, however accessible, and offers a completely stunning view of the island.
Distance from Bali: 212 km
How to reach: Via Padang Bai by a boat; via Lembar by road
Things to do in Lombok island: Hiking, sightseeing, exploring the waterfalls, photography tours, and scuba diving
Best restaurants: Warung Ibu Sum, Warung Baik Har
Best places to stay: Holiday Resort Lombok, The Jayakarta Lombok Beach Resort & Spa
Best time to visit: July to August
Suggested Read: Spend 9 Days In Singapore And Bali For An Ultimate Honeymoon Getaway!
5. Menjangan Island – Wonderland Of Underwater
This is the ideal island when you are looking for islands for your day trips from Bali to other islands. The wonderland of the underwater, Menjangan is among the most beautiful underwater ecosystems of Indonesia. Secretly hidden from the generic touristy, the waters of this island are home to almost 226 different species of fishes. And to add to it, the deep sea at this mystery island has a treasure in a 150 year old shipwreck of an unknown origination. Wouldn’t you want to go on a treasure hunt with your beloved? Oh! And there’s also the temple of Lord Ganesha on the island. Also, this is one of the best-hidden best islands near Bali.
Distance from Bali: 8 km
How to reach: Via Labuhan Lalang port or from Terima Bay
Things to do in Menjangan islands: Snorkeling, lazing around the idyllic beaches, exploring the corals, and treasure hunting at the shipwreck
Best restaurants: Pantai Restaurant, BananaLeaf Restaurant
Best places to stay: NusaBay Menjangan, The Menjangan
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Suggested Read: Glamping In Ubud: 3 Exotic Resorts To Experience A Blissful Stay Under The Stars!
6. Gili Trawangan – For A Hippie Experience
Alright, welcome to the hippie lands of Gili Trawangan – noisy vendors and a heap of backpackers smoking on a wharf in close vicinity to fuel fumes. Gili Trawangan is one of the best islands near Bali Indonesia to visit, frequented mostly by backpackers on a Bali tour.
Though infamous for its hipster appeal, this island in Indonesia is just as romantic. The Hipster Island has got a sea life, so vivid that even a snorkel will help you see the turtles and the shades of corals. And the Ombak Sunset Swing on the shores is truly romantic. Besides, the island has got a great nightlife as there are a large number of bars that throw out late night parties by the beach. This is one of the best islands to visit near Bali.
Distance from Bali: 104 km
How to reach: Via Padang Bai, on a boat
Things to do in Gili Trawangan: Yoga, scuba diving, surfing, and partying at night on the beaches
Best restaurants: Casa Vintage Beach, Pearl Beach Lounge
Best places to stay: Pearl of Trawangan, Gili Teak Resort
Best time to visit: September to November
Suggested Read: Indulge In These 10 Bali Hiking Tour Experiences To Seek Its Hidden Charm
Planning your honeymoon in Bali but confused about what to do? These Bali honeymoon stories help you find your best honeymoon trip ever!
7. Gili Gede – A Hidden Gem
Gili Gede is totally a souvenir if you get to explore the hidden gems around Bali. A part of the Lombok’s Gili islands, it is located off the south coast. The romantic island near Bali is almost an undiscovered tropical beauty and is known for its snorkeling launch points. The undiscovered Snorkeling Souvenir has got some of the most pristine reefs for underwater explorations. Couples? Are you keeping a note?
Distance from Bali: 103 km
How to reach: Via Menjangan Island
Things to do in Gili Gede: Snorkeling and lazing around the beach
Best restaurants: Le Tanjungan, Nautilus Restaurant
Best places to stay: The Papalagi Resort, Kokomo Gili Gede
Best time to visit: May to September
8. Gili Meno – Prime Honeymoon Destination
The most romantic among all the Gili islands around Bali, Indonesia, Gili Meno is a prime honeymoon destination. Romantic spots to rekindle the love, aviary, turtle sanctuary, the best of the snorkeling facilities, and secluded restaurants – one can’t ask for a better honeymoon setting. And, if you get to be on this Honeymoon island in June, you are in for some of the spectacular treats from the local restaurants. When going island hopping from Bali, don’t forget to include this one.
Distance from Bali: 106 km
How to reach: Via Menjangan Island
Things to do in Gili Gede: Snorkeling, beach walking, and romantic dining at the restaurants
Best restaurants: Tiki Grove, Little Bali Restaurant
Best places to stay: Avia Villa Resort, Mahamaya Boutique Resort
Best time to visit: September to November
Suggested Read: 32 Exotic Places To Visit In Bali For Honeymoon
9. Komodo Island – For Wildlife Enthusiasts
Alright, alright! Nothing that scary. The UNESCO-listed world heritage site of Komodo National Park on the Komodo Island houses the world’s largest lizards – the Komodo Dragons. Undoubtedly the animals of the islands gathe a lot of attention, but the surrounding waters also offer great scuba opportunities for the wildlife enthusiasts and couples. The underwater world of the Komodo island is home to the famous manta rays, sharks, and some of the most spectacular reefs of Indonesia. So, if you and your beloved are not daring enough, The Land of Dragons is where you should be.
Distance from Bali: 479 km
How to reach: Via Lombok, on ferries
Things to do in Komodo Island: Exploring the wildlife in the Komodo National Park and scuba diving
Best restaurants: Oase resataurant
Best places to stay: NA
Best time to visit: April to September
Note: The islets of Rinca and Padar are also located right next to the Komodo National Park Island
Suggested Read: 14 Best Places To Visit In Jimbaran For A Serene Holiday Experience In Bali
10. Java – Experience Mini Indonesia
To the west of Bali lies the cultural hub of Indonesia – Java. Thanks to its myriad temples, architectural marvels, crude Indonesian culture & heritage, and a handful of volcanoes – Java is rightly called the mini Indonesia. Jakarta, Bandung, Jogja, Malang, and Bogor are the famous cities of this traditional island near Bali. The ancient Hindu temples of Borobudur and the Sultan’s place are embodiments to the royal Indonesian culture.
Distance from Bali: 613 km
How to reach: On a ferry from Bali
Things to do in Java: Sightseeing, exploring the monuments & temples, witnessing the cultural performances, and hiking
Best restaurants: Coconuts Resto, Sun City Restaurant
Best places to stay: Aston Solo Hotel, Solo Paragon Hotel & Residences
Best time to visit: May to September
Further Read: Dreaming Of A Balinese Holiday? Here Is All You Should Know To Make A Perfect Plan [Infographic]
Serene, pristine, idyllic, spectacular, adventurous, and what not? Hopping on to these islands around Bali makes up a perfect romantic holiday. So, what are you waiting for? Don’t think too much and plan a trip for some island hopping in Bali and let us know your experiences.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Islands Around Bali
How do you get to Gili Islands from Bali?
To reach Gili islands from Bali, first you will take the public ferry from Padang Bai to Lombok. From there, you will have to take another boat to the islands.
How long is the ferry from Bali to Gili Islands?
Your journey from Bali to Gili islands can be covered in 1.5 hours. However, at times the duration may exceed but the maximum time must not be more than 2.5 hours.
How do I get from Bali to Gili Trawangan?
You can hire a ferry to reach Gili Trawangan comfortably from Bali.
What is Bali close to?
You can go to Java or Jakarta before or after visiting Bali in Indonesia.
Which Bali island is best?
Best islands near Bali that you can easily visit:
1. Gili Trawangan.
2. Gili Meno
3. Lombok
4. Nusa Penida
How long does it take from Bali to Gili Islands?
The crossing from Bali to Lombok takes 1 hour 20 minutes and then continues on from Lombok to Gili Trawangan which takes about 10 minutes.
How many days do you need in Gili Trawangan?
We recommend starting with at least 3 nights and giving yourself a little leeway in your plans to add more days on.
Is it safe to visit Komodo Island?
You can visit Komodo Island without any worry. However, it is suggested that one should be cautious during their visit to this Indonesian island.
What is Java island famous for?
Java Island in Indonesia is known and admired for its lakes, hills, beaches, tea plantations, shopping places, monuments, temples, and active volcanoes.
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An avid traveler, photographer, and writer, he can be spotted in a remote Indian destination twice every month. A true believer of “live like there’s no tomorrow”, Pushkar is out to strike all places off his bucket list before others have even made one!
