From the iconic shores of Bali to the untouched islands of Raja Ampat, Indonesia is a beach lover’s dream. With over 17,000 islands and endless stretches of coast, the country offers a dazzling range of beach experiences—whether you're after turquoise lagoons, surfing waves or tranquil hideaways. The diversity is staggering, blending volcanic cliffs, coral reefs, powdery sand and cultural richness in one unforgettable destination.
The best beaches in Indonesia include Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida, Pink Beach in Komodo, Nusa Dua in Bali and Tanjung Aan in Lombok. From world-class surf spots to snorkeling paradises, here are 15 of the best beaches in Indonesia, spanning Bali, the Nusa Islands, Lombok, Komodo and Raja Ampat.
Best Beaches in Bali
1. Nusa Dua Beach – Best for Family-Friendly Resorts and Calm Waters
On Bali’s southeastern coast, Nusa Dua Beach is known for its soft golden sand and gentle waves. Backed by luxury resorts and palm-lined promenades, this beach is ideal for families and travelers seeking a comfortable and scenic place to unwind. Calm waters make it perfect for swimming and stand-up paddleboarding.
2. Padang Padang Beach – Best for Surfers and Hidden Beach Vibes
Tucked between cliffs near Uluwatu, Padang Padang is a small but mighty beach popular with surfers and Instagrammers alike. A narrow stone staircase leads down to this secret-feeling cove, where clear water and crashing waves attract adventurous travelers. It’s one of Bali’s most photogenic coastal gems.
3. Jimbaran Beach – Best for Seafood Sunsets
Known for its seafood dining right on the sand, Jimbaran Beach combines mellow waves with culinary appeal. Come for the swimming and golden afternoon light, stay for a beachfront dinner under the stars. It’s a romantic spot just minutes from the airport, making it an easy favorite.
Best Beaches in Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan
1. Kelingking Beach – Best for Dramatic Clifftop Views
Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida is one of the most iconic views in Indonesia. A steep staircase descends from a T. rex-shaped cliff to a stunning stretch of sand below, where turquoise water crashes into the shore. It’s a challenging hike, but the views from the top alone are worth the trip.
2. Atuh Beach – Best for Sunrise and Rock Formations
Also on Nusa Penida, Atuh Beach is a quieter alternative known for its jagged rock arches and peaceful vibes. The soft white sand and clear waters are great for swimming, while the clifftop viewpoints offer unforgettable sunrise scenes for early risers.
3. Dream Beach – Best for Scenic Seclusion on Nusa Lembongan
Tucked into a cove on Nusa Lembongan, Dream Beach lives up to its name with powdery sand, turquoise waves and dramatic headlands. It’s quieter than Bali’s busy beaches, offering a peaceful setting for sunbathing, photography and tide pool exploring.
Best Beaches in Lombok
1. Tanjung Aan – Best for Calm Swimming and Laid-Back Vibes
Near Kuta Lombok, Tanjung Aan is a sweeping bay with soft, pepper-white sand and gently lapping waves. It’s a favorite among families and travelers looking to escape the more crowded Bali beaches. Local beach cafés (warungs) offer cold drinks and fresh coconuts with unbeatable views.
2. Selong Belanak – Best for Beginner Surfing
Selong Belanak is one of Lombok’s best beginner surf beaches, with smooth, rolling waves and a wide sandy bay. Surrounded by green hills and local fishing boats, it offers a relaxed vibe with surf schools and board rentals right on the sand.
3. Mawun Beach – Best for Natural Beauty and Fewer Crowds
Tucked between two hills, Mawun Beach is a picturesque crescent with turquoise waters and soft golden sand. Its sheltered shape makes it great for swimming, while the lack of large resorts gives it a more peaceful, untouched atmosphere.
Best Beaches in Komodo and Flores
1. Pink Beach (Pantai Merah) – Best for Unique Sand and Snorkeling
Located within Komodo National Park, Pink Beach gets its rare hue from crushed red coral mixed with white sand. The snorkeling just offshore reveals vibrant coral gardens and tropical fish, while the surrounding cliffs and hills offer postcard-worthy panoramas. It's one of the few pink sand beaches in the world.
2. Kanawa Island – Best for Coral Reefs and Island Day Trips
A short boat ride from Labuan Bajo, Kanawa Island offers calm, shallow water perfect for snorkeling and relaxing. Its small, peaceful beach feels like a private paradise and the surrounding reefs are teeming with marine life including starfish, clownfish and reef sharks.
Best Beaches in Raja Ampat
1. Pasir Timbul – Best for Sandbar Walks in the Middle of the Sea
Pasir Timbul isn’t your typical beach—it’s a temporary sandbar that appears at low tide in the middle of the sea near Waigeo. Surrounded by crystal-clear water, it’s a surreal spot where you can walk on white sand while completely encircled by ocean.
2. Arborek Island Beach – Best for Snorkeling and Cultural Charm
Arborek is a tiny island in Raja Ampat with a lovely beach lined by wooden jetties and palm trees. It’s one of the best places in Indonesia to snorkel directly from shore and see vibrant coral reefs, plus meet the friendly local community known for sustainable tourism.
3. Sawinggrai Village Beach – Best for Birdwatching and Beach Bliss
Sawinggrai Beach offers white sand, calm waters and the chance to spot rare birds like the red bird-of-paradise. It's a great place to combine beach time with cultural and ecological discovery, making it ideal for nature lovers.
Best Beaches in Indonesia by Traveler Type
- Kelingking Beach – Best for epic views and dramatic photo ops
- Nusa Dua Beach – Best for families and calm swimming
- Pink Beach – Best for snorkeling and rare pink sand
- Selong Belanak – Best for beginner surfers
- Tanjung Aan – Best for beach cafés and soft sand
- Padang Padang Beach – Best for surf and scenery
- Jimbaran Beach – Best for beachfront dining and sunsets
- Atuh Beach – Best for sunrise and peace
- Dream Beach – Best for laid-back romance
- Pasir Timbul – Best for walking on water vibes
FAQs About Indonesia’s Beaches:
1. What is the most beautiful beach in Indonesia?
Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida is one of Indonesia’s most beautiful beaches, offering a dramatic viewpoint over turquoise waters and a cliff-framed cove. Its panoramic views and raw natural beauty make it a top contender for the most stunning beach in the country.
2. Which beach in Indonesia has pink sand?
Pink Beach in Komodo National Park is famous for its rose-colored shoreline, caused by a mix of white sand and crushed red coral. It's one of the only pink sand beaches in the world and offers excellent snorkeling just off the coast.
3. What’s the best beach in Indonesia for surfing?
Padang Padang Beach in Bali and Selong Belanak in Lombok are two of the best beaches in Indonesia for surfing. While Padang Padang attracts experienced surfers with reef breaks, Selong Belanak offers smooth, forgiving waves perfect for beginners.
4. Are there family-friendly beaches in Indonesia?
Yes, Nusa Dua Beach in Bali and Tanjung Aan in Lombok are both ideal for families. They feature calm water, clean sand and nearby restaurants or amenities to make a day at the beach comfortable and fun for all ages.
5. Where can I snorkel from the beach in Indonesia?
Dream Beach on Nusa Lembongan, Nudey Beach on Fitzroy Island (if you’re also visiting Australia), Pink Beach in Komodo and Arborek Beach in Raja Ampat all offer excellent snorkeling with coral reefs located just off the sand.
