14 Most Popular Islands near Bali - The Complete Guide

Known as the Land of the Gods, Bali captivates tourists with its stunning shorelines, terraced rice fields, thrilling adventurous water sports, and more. Exploring the best islands near Bali on your Bali Trip is nothing short of heaven!

Bali is one of the 975 islands comprising the Lesser Sunda Islands. Hence, island hopping and day trips are some of the best things to do in Bali.

Whilst each of these islands offers tropical beaches, there are different advantages. Whether you are travelling as a family, in a group, or on your honeymoon, let us help you choose the island that best suits your preferences, including things to do, the best time to visit islands near Bali, and how to get there!

Best Islands near Bali to Visit, this Year

Here is the list of the best islands near Bali to visit, for couples, adventure seekers, and nature enthusiasts:

1. Java Island

Java Island is the cultural hub of Indonesia and lies to the west of Bali. With its numerous temples, architectural wonders, exquisite Indonesian culture & heritage, and a handful of volcanoes, Java is often called 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 palace symbolize the royal Indonesian culture.

• Location: Pulau Jawa
• Approx 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 Time to Visit: May to September

2. Lombok Island

When you are planning to explore the best islands around Bali, Lombok is something that you cannot afford to miss.  It is a large volcanic island off the East coast of Bali.

The south of the island has a namesake of the Kuta in Bali, another Kuta in Lombok. Kuta Lombok is considerably less crowded and has some of the most spectacular beaches in Indonesia, making it a must-visit destination for couples.

In the northern part of the island lies Mount Rinjani, which has some spectacular waterfalls. The mountain also has a fiery active volcano, which is accessible and offers stunning views.

• Location: Pulau Lombok
• Approx Distance from Bali: 212 km
• How to Reach: Via Padang Bai by boat
• Things to Do in Lombok Island: Hiking, sightseeing, exploring the waterfalls, photography tours, and scuba diving.
• Best Time to Visit: July to August

Suggested Read: Lombok Vs Bali: Tropical Paradise Comparison Guide

3. Gili Trawangan

TheGili Islands are three small islands off Bali: Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, off Lombok, Indonesia. Locally called Gili Indah, meaning "small beautiful islands," they're popular tourist destinations with resorts and diving spots like Shark Point and Manta Point.

Gili Trawangan is a hippie heaven. Noisy vendors and a heap of backpackers smoking on a wharf in close vicinity are a frequent sight here. Gili Trawangan is one of the party islands near Bali, Indonesia, frequented mostly by backpackers on a Bali tour.

Though infamous for its hipster appeal, this island in Indonesia can also be explored by couples looking for a good time and some romance. This Island has a marine life, so it is very easy to see the turtles and the shades of corals.

And the Ombak Sunset Swing on the shores is totally worthy of an Insta pic! Besides, the island has 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 if you are looking for a little bit of everything on your to-do list.

• Location: Gili Indah, Pemenang, North Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
• Approx Distance from Bali: 104 km
• How to Reach: Via Padang Bai, on a fast boat
• Things to Do in Gili Trawangan: Yoga, scuba diving, surfing, and partying at night on the beaches.
• Best Time to Visit: September to November

4. Gili Meno

This is the most romantic among all the Gili islands near Bali, Indonesia. Gili Meno is a prime honeymoon destination since it is the quietest and smallest of the islands, with crystal clear waters and idyllic secluded white beaches.

It also has the best snorkelling facilities and secluded restaurants. So what more can a pair of newlyweds ask for? When going island hopping, Gili Meno is one of the best islands around Bali.

• Location: Gili Indah, Pemenang, North Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
• Approx Distance from Bali: 106 km
• How to Reach: By fast boat from ports like Serangan, Sanur, or Padang Bai
• Things to Do in Gili Meno: Snorkelling, beach walking, and romantic dining at the restaurants.
• Best Time to Visit: September to November

5. Gili Air

Gili Air is where you can find luxury compared to the other 2 Gili islands. It’s often considered an alternative holiday island escape after the more popular Gili Trawangan. Gili Air offers a great combination of white sand and crystal-clear waters that are favoured by divers and snorkellers. It also has some great shopping areas, beach bars, and dive shops.

It is closest to the Lombok mainland and is the second most popular island after Trawangan. Gili Air is smaller but more refined than Trawangan. The island’s main south-eastern coast near the boat docks is surprisingly packed with a variety of dining and nightlife choices.

The beaches around the northern coastline are isolated from most of the southern crowds, great for those looking for a true sense of escape on the island.

• Location: Gili Indah, Pemenang, North Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
• Approx Distance from Kuta/Bali Airport: 110 km
• How to Reach: By fast boat or by a combination of flying to Lombok and then taking a boat
• Things to Do in Gili Air: Swimming, boating, snorkelling.
• Best Time to Visit: May to September

6. Gili Gede

Gili Gede is a hidden gem around Bali. As a part of the Lombok Gili islands off Bali, it is located off the south coast.

The romantic island near Bali is almost an undiscovered tropical beauty and is known for its snorkelling launch points. Snorkell to explore some of the most pristine reefs. Couples? Are you keeping a note?

• Location: West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
• Approx Distance from Bali: 103 km
• How to Reach: Fast boat directly from ports like Serangan or a flight to Lombok, and then transfer to a local boat
• Things to Do in Gili Gede: Snorkelling and lazing around the beach.
• Best Time to Visit: May to September

7.Komodo Island

The UNESCO-listed world heritage site of Komodo National Park is situated on Komodo Island. It has the world’s largest lizards, the Komodo Dragons.

Undoubtedly, these animals are the main attraction of the Island, but the surrounding waters also offer great scuba opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts and couples.

The underwater world of Komodo Island is home to the famous manta rays, sharks, and some of the most spectacular reefs in Indonesia.

• Location: Komodo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
• Approx 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 Time to Visit: April to September

8. Nusa Penida Island

Nusa Penida is one of the most famous islands near Bali, which gives you bird-watching opportunities that are complemented by excursions to some of the oldest caves in Indonesia.

This island of rugged caves has a Crystal Bay that offers a pristine white sandy beach and crystal clear waters for couples to explore.

The beauty of the FNPF Bird Sanctuary in the Ped Village only adds to the reasons that make this destination rank among the most wonderful islands off Bali. WanderOn's Nusa Penida tour packages cover most of these stops, including Crystal Bay and the cave excursions, in a single planned itinerary.

• Location: Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
• Approx Distance from Bali: 66 km
• How to Reach: By speedboats and public ferries from Bali via Sanur, 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.
• Best Time to Visit: May to September

9. Nusa Lembongan

If you are looking for an even more laid-back version of Bali, Nusa Lembongan is the place to be. No traffic, no hawkers, and with the best of accommodations, this island is one of the most romantic getaways from Bali.

The island does not allow any four-wheelers, and that explains the no traffic thing. The locals either walk or cycle around.

The island has 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.

• Location: Jungutbatu, Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
• Approx Distance from Bali: 55 km
• How to Reach: Via Sanur Beach or Benoa Harbour; by fast boats
• Things to Do in Nusa Lembongan: Paddleboarding, surfing, snorkelling with mantas, cliff jumping, diving, & romantic walks through the villages.
• Best Time to Visit: May to September

10. Nusa Ceningan

Easily accessible via a rickety yellow bridge from Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan is famous as the forgotten cousin of Bali island. Even less crowded, the island is known for seaweed farming and adventure.

This little stony gem has a 12-metre high cliff jumping point that calls for the attention of all daredevils.

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.

• Location: Lembongan, Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
• Approx 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 Time to Visit: May to September

11. Menjangan Island

It is Bali’s well-kept secret. A complete underwater wonderland, Menjangan Island is a paradise underwater. And to add to that, the deep sea in this mystery island has a treasure in a 150-year-old shipwreck of an unknown origin.

If you are adventurous and seeking old relics that excite you, then this island is a must-see!

This is the ideal island if you’re looking for day trips from Bali to other islands. There’s also a temple of Lord Ganesha on the island.

• Location: Sumber Klampok, Gerokgak, Buleleng Regency, Bali, Indonesia
• Approx Distance from Bali: 8 km
• How to Reach: Via Labuhan Lalang port or from Terima Bay by boat
• Things to Do in Menjangan Island: Snorkelling, beach exploration, and treasure hunting at the shipwreck.
• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year

12. Sumba Island

Situated southeast of Bali, Sumba Island is a hidden gem in the East Nusa Tenggara province, Indonesia. Known for its ancient traditions, Sumba Island captivates with its magnificent stone structures, vibrant tribal culture, and annual Pasola ritual.

The island offers pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and iconic traditional villages. Rich in cultural heritage, visitors can witness intricate weaving, distinct architecture, and engage with friendly locals.

• Location: East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
• Approx Distance from Bali: 380 km
• How to Reach: Via Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport to Tambolaka Airport in Sumba
• Things to Do in Sumba Island: Shop local weaves like Ikkat, etc, and other arts and crafts, snorkelling, and diving.
• Best Time to Visit: April to October

13. Flores Island

Flores, part of the East Nusa Tenggara province in Indonesia, is a captivating island known for its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The island has rugged coastlines, lush green hills, volcanic mountains, and traditional villages.

You will also find Kelimutu National Park on Flores, which features a volcano and three richly colored crater lakes, as well as hot springs and numerous caves.

Labuan Bajo, a town in Flores, serves as a gateway to the renowned Komodo National Park, famous for its Komodo dragons and vibrant marine life. The island offers a blend of adventure and cultural experiences, with opportunities for trekking, diving, and exploring traditional villages with distinctive tribal cultures.

Flores Island provides a unique and immersive destination for travellers seeking both natural beauty and cultural exploration. You can reach here by taking a flight from Denpasar or Labuan Bajo to Flores.

• Location: East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
• Approx Distance from Bali: 1032 km
• How to Reach: By flight from Denpasar or Labuan Bajo to Flores
• Things to Do in Flores Island: Visit Komodo National Park, explore traditional villages, trekking, and diving.
• Best Time to Visit: April to September

14. Serangan Island

Serangan Island is often called Bali’s ‘turtle island’, due to it once being a frequent nesting ground for green sea turtles. Situated along Bali’s southeastern shoreline, Serangan Island stands out for its commitment to turtle conservation and its appeal to water sports enthusiasts.

This serene island, with its untouched beaches, provides an ideal retreat for those seeking relaxation and adventure through activities such as snorkelling and diving.

Among the many islands off Bali, Serangan Island is easily reachable from Denpasar and is only a 15-minute drive from Kuta and Sanur.

• Location: Serangan, Denpasar Selatan, Denpasar City, Bali, Indonesia
• Approx Distance from Bali: 50 km
• How to Reach: via Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai or via Br. Taman Tanda - Mengwitani/Jl. Raya Denpasar by car or scooter.
• Things to Do in Serangan Island: Swimming, boating, windsurfing, snorkelling, and diving.
• Best Time to Visit: April to September

The famous islands near Bali offer diverse experiences for every traveler. For party lovers, Gili Trawangan delivers vibrant nightlife, while Gili Meno provides romantic seclusion for couples.

Adventure seekers will love Komodo Island's wildlife and Nusa Penida's dramatic cliffs. Nusa Lembongan offers laid-back vibes, and Lombok boasts stunning beaches and Mount Rinjani.

The best time to visit islands near Bali is generally April to October for optimal weather, though some islands like Menjangan are accessible year-round. Whether you seek adventure, romance, or relaxation, these islands near Bali promise unforgettable experiences just a boat ride away from paradise.