Where to Go from Bali: 5 Islands for Diving, Snorkeling, and Adventure
Bali is undeniably beautiful, but your adventure doesn’t have to end there. Surrounding Bali are equally stunning islands, each offering a unique experience. Indonesia is rich in nature, culture, and diverse landscapes. If you’ve already explored Bali, here’s a list of five destinations to visit next, where you can uncover new sides of this Indonesian paradise.
1. Gili Islands: Three Gems in the Indian Ocean
The Gili Islands aren’t just one island but a trio of small islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air) off the coast of Lombok.
Known for their pristine white beaches, calm, wave-free waters, and complete lack of motorized vehicles, these islands are a haven for relaxation. Whether you’re into snorkeling, diving, or simply soaking up the sun, the Gili Islands offer the perfect mix of tranquility and adventure.
Gili Trawangan is the largest and most lively of the three islands. Here, you'll find plenty of cafes, restaurants, bars, and clubs where you can enjoy an evening of fun and entertainment. However, the true treasure of Gili Trawangan lies beneath the waves—the island is a paradise for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.
Gili Air is the perfect spot for those seeking peace and tranquility. This island offers serene beach walks, yoga sessions by the shore, and opportunities to dive into the crystal-clear waters. With no motorized vehicles, you can explore the island on foot or by bicycle, making it an ideal place for relaxing strolls and breathtaking scenery.
How to Get There: You can reach the Gili Islands from Bali by ferry or speedboat from Padang Bai port, and occasionally from Sanur port. The travel time ranges from 1.5 to 6 hours, depending on the type of transfer you choose.
2. Lombok: Surfing, Volcanoes, and Cultural Traditions
The island boasts excellent waves for both beginners and seasoned surfers. Lombok is a favorite among locals, with fewer crowds in the lineup and a much more relaxed atmosphere. For beginners, Don-Don is an ideal spot where you can practice confidently, knowing exactly where the wave will break. The spots in Gerupuk Bay cater to all skill levels, making it a great destination for surfers of any experience.
How to Get There: You can reach Lombok from Bali by ferry or speedboat from Padang Bai, with the trip taking between 2 to 5 hours. Alternatively, you can fly from Denpasar to Lombok Airport, with the flight taking just 20 minutes. Book your tickets on our web site.
3. Nusa Penida: Breathtaking Landscapes and Encounters with Manta Rays
Nusa Penida is the island closest to Bali, renowned for its rugged cliffs, diverse marine life, and stunning landscapes. It’s home to Kelingking Beach, one of Bali’s most iconic spots. This Instagram-famous location is the very place you’ve likely seen in photos online
In the waters around Nusa Penida, you can encounter giant manta rays. Some of the most exhilarating snorkeling spots are Manta Bay and Manta Point. These amazing creatures come here in search of coral fish and plankton and can reach a wingspan of up to five meters. Swimming with mantas is an unforgettable experience.
Nearby Nusa Penida are two neighboring islands—Nusa Lembongan, known for its excellent surfing spots, and Nusa Ceningan. The islands are connected by the beautiful Yellow Bridge, a local landmark and popular photo spot. Surrounding the Nusa Islands are stunning coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
How to Get There: You can reach Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan from Bali by speedboat from Sanur. The trip takes about 40 minutes. Book your tickets on our web site.
4. Komodo: Island of Dragons and Pink Beaches
Komodo is renowned for its futuristic landscapes and unique inhabitants—the Komodo dragons. These giant lizards are a rare species endemic to the island and can only be found within Komodo National Park.
Locals believe the Komodo dragon is an ancient reptile, a contemporary of dinosaurs, and some even refer to it as the "last dragon." In reality, the Komodo dragon is the largest lizard in the world, with a body length of up to three meters and weighing nearly a ton.
Another unique natural wonder that attracts tourists from around the globe is the Pink Beach. The sand here has a delicate pink hue, created by the mix of white coral sand with fragments of red coral broken up by the waves. The pink color is particularly striking at sunset when the sun casts a warm glow on the sand. The most popular and beautiful of these beaches is Tanjung Sepala. It’s a perfect spot for photos and simply enjoying the natural beauty. However, access to the beach is restricted as it is located within Komodo National Park, where an entrance fee is required.
Komodo is one of the most popular destinations for a cruise, but getting there can be a bit challenging. There are very few cruises departing directly from Bali or Lombok. The most convenient route for such an adventurous trip is to fly to Labuan Bajo on Flores Island, where you can begin your multi-day ocean journey.
Embark on a sea voyage with MyBaliTrips on a cruise to the Komodo Archipelago.
How to Get There: The most comfortable option is to fly from Denpasar Airport to Labuan Bajo on Flores Island. From there, you can take either day trips or multi-day tours around the Komodo Archipelago.
5. Sumbawa: Untouched Nature and Snorkeling with Whale Sharks
Sumbawa is an island that boasts wild beauty and untouched nature. It’s an unusual and relatively unexplored travel destination. Here, you’ll find breathtaking volcanic landscapes, opportunities for snorkeling with whale sharks, and the authentic culture of the Sumbawa people.
Join us on a journey to meet whale sharks on Sumbawa Island!
How to Get There: You can reach Sumbawa from Bali by flying from Denpasar (Bali Airport) to Sultan Hasanuddin Airport (Sumbawa Besar Airport). The flight takes about 1 hour.
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