Written by Stephanie Peeters
One reason why we travel to Indonesia, the land of countless islands, is of course to see the stunning beaches, surrounded by raw tropical nature and dramatic limestone cliffs.
Also read:
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10 islands getaways in Indonesia you need to explore
11 private islands and resorts in Indonesia for a perfect tropical getaway
9 magnificent water villas in Indonesia for a hidden paradise getaway
These are places with views to blow you mind away, where you can swim in azure waters or snorkel with colourful sea creatures as you explore the rich underwater life of Indonesia.
But are you tired of travelling to beaches crowded with tourists? These 13 hidden beaches are still unknown to most travellers, promising truly unspoiled nature – definitely beach paradises waiting to be discovered. Go see for yourselves!
Note; The prices reflected below are the total estimated costs for traveling to these 13 beaches from Singapore and Jakarta. Accommodation is not included in the estimation of costs.
1. What shark teeth you have: Gigi Hiu Beach, Lampung
This magical natural attraction is found on the southern coast of Sumatra in Lampung.
The sharp limestone rocks, standing strong in the deep blue ocean and towering above the sea, are challenged by the high crashing waves.

Photo via azwarsyah.reza
In fact, the rocks resemble gigantic shark teeth, hence its given name ’Gigi Hiu’, which means ‘shark teeth’.

Photo via baimrhmt
If you want to go swimming or snorkeling, Gigi Hiu Beach is not the place to go, as the currents are too strong and dangerous. But if you love raw, unspoiled nature with amazing views, you can eat your heart out! The views of Sumatra’s lush tropical landscape bordering the deep blue sea and the uniquely-shaped limestone rocks are breathtaking!
It is not for the faint-hearted, though.

Photo via fharellgpp14
Getting there can be quite a challenge, especially during the rainy season, as the location is quite remote, so it has attracted only a handful of tourists who are up for some adventure. The winding road is rocky and can be slippery when wet. Once you reach, the rocks are high and sharp, so do be careful with every step you take!
Remember to bring some snacks and drinks along with you and make sure to leave the beach before the sun sets, unless you want to wander around in pitch darkness among the rocks.
Pantai Gigi Hiu
Address: Desa Kelumbayan, Tanggamus, Indonesia
Entrance Fees: Rp. 5,000 (Approximately USD $ 0.35)
Where to stay:
1) Pondok Pulau Kiluan, accessible by Junkung boat. Contact Mr. Dirhamsyah 081 369 991 340.
2) Pondok Maimun, a homestay with great sunset views. Contact 081 272 284 134 / 082 178 218 575.
Website
Getting there:
Estimated total return cost: USD $23
Estimated total return cost: USD $70
1. Take a flight to Jakarta (from USD $70 for a return flight.).
2. From Soekarno-Hatta airport, take Bus Damri to Merak Harbour (USD $4,5).
3. Then, take the ferry to Bakauheni Port (USD $1).
4. From Bakauheni, take the bus to Rajabasa Terminal (USD $2)
5. Then, travel to Teluk Kiluan (USD $4).
From here, rent a motorcycle to the beach at Desa Pegadungan (USD $14).
Estimated total return cost: USD $95.50
2. The Ocean’s natural Blue Lagoon: Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach is a hidden oasis located near to the dock of Kiluan Bay.

photo by zulvikarmuhammad
To get to the blue lagoon, you have to hike along some hills and rocks, passing banana trees and cacao plantations. A local guide will show you the way for Rp. 5000 (approximately USD $0,37).

Photo via ling2kl
The trip may be a little tiring, but the reward is totally worth it – an unspoiled, pristine white sand beach bordering the inviting azure blue ocean with high waves rolling to the shore. Surfers will love it here!

Photo by ling2kl
A unique highlight of Laguna Beach is a 35-metre-deep and 6-metre-wide natural pool resting between the rocks. Here, you can indulge a wonderful natural bath and occasionally, a gigantic wave will splash water over the edge like a waterfall.

Video via ling2kl
So sit back and enjoy the stunning scenery with the majestic Mount Rajabasa as the backdrop. Bring some drinks and snacks along for this perfect day!
Laguna Beach
Address: Way Urang, Kalianda, South Lampung Regency, Lampung
Where to stay:
1) Alau Alau Boutique resort – starts from Rp. 400.000++ (Approximately USD $ 31) for a wooden cottage on the beach.
2) Another option is to camp a little further down the road at Pantai Guci Batu Kapal for Rp. 35.000 (Approximately USD $2.63)
Website
Getting there:
Estimated total return cost: USD $9
Estimated total return cost: USD $70
1. Take a flight to Jakarta (from approximately USD $70 for a return flight).
2. From Soekarno-Hatta airport, take Bus Damri to Merak Harbour (USD $4.50).
3. Then, take the ferry to Bakauheni Port (USD $1).
4. From Bakauheni, take the bus to Rajabasa Terminal (USD $2)
5. Then, travel to Teluk Kiluan (USD $4).
Estimated total return cost: USD $81.50
3. Tiny tropical Banana Island: Pulau Pisang
Pulau Pisang translates to ‘Banana Island’. This doesn’t only evoke the image of a pristine white sandy beach with towering palm trees and a clear azure blue sea, but it also refers to the actual shape of the island – like a banana.

Photo via adam ekakurniaasmara
Visiting Pulau Pisang makes an amazing day trip! On this idyllic tropical island, you can swim in the clear blue sea, go on a hunt for beautiful shells, explore the underwater life with your snorkeling gear and drink delicious fresh coconut on the beach all day long while you wait for the sun to set.

Photo via zanidmr
For those who want to explore the whole island, you can rent a motorbike – just ask the locals. While exploring, you may pass by ancient schools, built since the 1800s. You can even explore the lighthouse or hire a boat to go on a dolphin-watching trip!

Photo via fickymuezza

Photo via apriantoekasaputraa
Why not enjoy a feast with freshly caught blue marlin fish? Perhaps even caught by yourself or by one of your friends on the boat trip!
Pulau Pisang
Where to stay:
1) Salsabila homestay: This homestay is for local only, located close to the beach on Pulau Pisang. It costs Rp. 200,000 (approximately USD $15) per night for a two-person bedroom. For reservation and information contact: 081272686896.
2) Another great stay is Losmen Palmbeach, a surfers’ hang-out located in Krui. A single room costs Rp 130,000 (approximately USD $9.77), a double room costs Rp. 240,000 (approximately USD $18.05) and a tent costs Rp. 55,000 (approximately USD $4.13) per person.
Getting there:
Estimated total return cost: USD $10
Estimated total return cost: USD $57
1. Take a flight to Jakarta (from USD $70 for a return flight).
2. From Soekarno-Hatta Airport, take Bus Damri to Merak Harbour (USD $4.50).
3. Then, take the ferry to Bakauheni Port (USD $1).
4. From Bakauheni, take the bus to Rajabasa Terminal (USD $2).
5. Then, take the Krui Putra Bus to Dermaga Tembakak, Krui. (USD $3.50).
6. And finally, take the boat to Pulau Pisang (USD $1.50).
Estimated total return cost: USD $82.50
4. The 3 Musketeer beaches of Pacitan: Srau Beach
The coastline of Java is not yet famous for its beautiful beaches, probably because ocean along these areas are too dangerous to swim in. But they are absolutely breathtaking! One of the beaches is Srau Beach in Pacitan.

Photo via ryowidagdo.pic
Surrounded by magnificent scenery of hilly green mountains, three remote, soft white sand beaches are found between the rocky hills and the stunningly blue ocean. It’s well worth a visit, before too many people find out about this hidden gem!

Photo via faqih.flame.hawk
You can visit all three beaches in a one-day trip. The sea is beautiful and looks very inviting, but the current is strong, so it’s unsafe to go for a swim here. Surfers will love it, though! The high waves allow you to enjoy thrilling rides on the ocean.

Photo by jorrigalih
At the beach, there are some local food stalls so you can get drinks and a quick local snack.
Come for sunrise and stay for sunset – both are equally enchanting! The drive here is equally beautiful too – think empty roads and stunning sceneries.

Photo via aji.caesar
Srau Beach
Address: Candi, Pringkuku, Candi, Pacitan, Kabupaten Pacitan, Jawa Timur
Entrance Fees: Rp. 5000 (approximately USD $0,37) for motorbike and Rp. 10.000 (approximately USD $0,72) for a car.
Where to stay:
1) Sackstone Guesthouse: Prices start at Rp. 125,000 (approximately USD $9.40) per person or Rp. 250,000 (approximately USD $18.80)per room.
2) Edy’s Homestay: Starts at Rp. 175,000 (approximately USD $13.15) for a fan room and Rp. 180,000 (approximately USD $ 13.55) for an air-conditioned room. The prices include 3 meals a day, free-flow water and complimentary wifi. Call Edy to make a reservation: 081234143501.
3) Another option is to bring a small tent and stay overnight if you dare to be out there in the wild.
(Both homestays are around 14 kilometres’ drive from Srau Beach, which would take approximately 35 minutes.)
Website
Getting there:
Estimated total return cost: USD $17
Estimated total return cost: USD $63.50
1. Take flight to Jakarta (from approximately USD $70 for a return flight).
2. Take the airport bus to Lebak Bulus terminal (USD $3)
3. Then, take bus to Pacitan (USD $13.50).
4. From Pacitan, you will have to rent a motorbike (from approximately USD $3.50 a day).
5. It’s a 35-kilometre drive west from the city to reach Srau Beach
Estimated total return cost: USD $90
5. Fairytale landscape: Menganti Beach
Menganti beach is a hidden gem of Java Island. The beach is not a safe place for swimming but the scenery is jaw-dropping beautiful, a fairytale land resembling the landscape in ‘Lord of the Rings’.

Photo by mirandaharyanto
You can laze around here and take in the endless lush green rolling hills and dramatic cliffs, which border the sweeping white sandy coast and the deep blue sea where fishermen are out for their day’s catch in traditional Jukung boats.

Photo by mirandaharyanto
Needless to say, you can enjoy a mouthwatering seafood dinner at one of the local eateries at a very affordable price. With a group of 4 people, you can enjoy a yummy seafood feast for around Rp. 100,000 (approximately USD $7.50) or Rp. 60,000 (approximately USD $6) for fresh lobster for one person.

Photo by ramadhinasgt
Drive up the hill for a most enchanting view of the untouched landscape surrounding Menganti Beach.

Photo via dhekanggara, maulinakusmawardini
It takes around 1.5 hours to get to Menganti Beach from Kebumen city, and you need to drive up steep hills and winding roads. It’s not the easiest ride but it sure is rewarding!

Photo via triaa yaries
Menganti Beach
Address: Karangduwur, Ayah, Karangduwur, Ayah, Kabupaten Kebumen, Jawa Tengah
Where to stay: Candisari Hotel Kebumen, Rp. 220,000 per night (approximately USD $16.55)
Website
Getting there:
1. Take the train to Kebumen from Pasar Senen Station (from USD $6).
2. Charter a car to Desa Karangduwur, Kecamatan Ayah, -+ 1.5 hours’ driving distance from Kebumen city (from USD $20 per day).
Estimated total return cost: USD $26
1. Take a flight to Jakarta (from approximately USD $70 for a return flight).
2. Take the airport bus to Gambir Station (USD $3).
3. Take the TransJakarta to Pasar Senen Station (USD$ 0.25).
4. Then, take the train to Kebumen from Pasar Senen Station (from USD $ 6).
5. And finally, charter a car to Desa Karangduwur, Kecamatan Ayah, -+ 1.5 hours’ driving distance from Kebumen city (from USD $20 per day).
Estimated total return cost: USD $99.25
6. Snorkel at a pristine tropical island near Jakarta: Perak Island
Not too far from the city of Jakarta, there sits a tiny tropical island with powdery white sand beaches and shallow clear sea water that’s perfect for snorkeling.

Photo via leonardngg
A wonderful peaceful oasis, Perak Island is a great escape from the bustling city of Jakarta. You can enjoy a perfect weekend getaway where you can camp on the beach, relax under the sun, swim, snorkel or even dive with your friends and family.

Photo via redi able

Photo via adjoyy, widad elzae
Be warned, the sunset can be mindblowing!
When you arrive on Perak Island, and if you want to stay overnight in your tent (bring it!), you have to ask for permission and pay Rp. 25,000 (approximately USD $0.85) for the security service. If you are traveling with a big group, or staying for more than one night, the price is negotiable.

Photo by Ubermoon, IDWS
You can rent snorkelling equipment for Rp. 35,000 (approximately USD $2.60) per day, including fins.

Photo via feryeks, firdanisaa
All settled? Now, simply relax and enjoy the wonderful ambience at Perak Island, one of the best kept secrets of Jakarta.
Perak Island
Where to stay: Beach Camping (bring your own tent) costs Rp. 25,000 (approximately USD $0.85) per person.
Website
Getting there:
1. Take the boat to Pulau Harapan from Muara Angke (USD $8).
2. Charter a boat to Pulau Perak (from USD $35 for a return ticket).
Estimated total return cost: $43
1. Take a flight to Jakarta (from USD $70 for a return flight).
2. Take a taxi to Muara Angke Harbour (from USD $6).
3. Take the boat to Pulau Harapan from Muara Angke (USD $8).
4. Charter a boat to Pulau Perak (from USD $35 for a return ticket).
Estimated total return cost: $119
7. Camp by the azure ocean near Jakarta: Karya Island
Karya Island is another tropical island getaway, located just a short drive away from the city of Jakarta.

photo by lensaudara
Here, you can camp right on the beach, be lulled to sleep by the sound of the sea and wake up to the amazing views of unspoiled nature.

Photo via dhinisyabirin
Get your camping cooking gear out to prepare a nice little camp-style breakfast in the morning, before going out to swim and snorkel in the azure blue sea and among colorful fish and beautiful coral reefs.

photoby nay7190, rindartoaje
You will be sure to be return to busy Jakarta all relaxed and rejuvenated!

Photo via vithalialie
Karya Island
Where to stay:
1) Camping on the beach (bring your own tent) costs Rp. 35,000 (approximately USD $2.60) per person.
2) Another option is to stay on Pramuka Island. Try Charlie Homestay, Rp. 300,000 (approximately USD $22.55) for a room for 4 people.
Getting there:
1. Take the speedboat to Pramuka Island from Marina Ancol (USD $20 for a return ticket).
2. Then, take a water taxi to Karya Island – Rp.10,000 for a return ticket (USD $0.75).
Estimated total return cost: USD $20.75
1. Take a flight to Jakarta (approximately USD $70 for a return flight).
2. From Soekarno-Hatta airport, take a taxi to Marina Ancol (from USD $7).
3. Take the speedboat to Pulau Pramuka from Marina Ancol (USD $20 for a return ticket).
4. Then, take a water taxi to Karya Island – Rp.10,000 for a return ticket (USD $0.75).
Estimated total return cost: USD $97.75
8. Retreat to private white sand beach in Lampung: Alau Alau Boutique Resort
Have you ever dreamed about staying at an almost-isolated beach resort, with private access to crisp white sandy shores, overlooking the endlessly blue ocean with Mount Rajabasa as the backdrop?
You can do so at the Alau Alau Boutique Resort, which is located right on the beach in the Lampung area of Sumatra.

photo by endahrrr
Here, it’s all about sipping fresh coconut juice and gazing at the view all day long.

photoby fitriayuliantikaa
Although you may choose to sleep in a traditional bungalow, it’s topped off with modern comforts such as air-conditioning.

Photo via dennraw
You can also stay in a private villa on the beach!

Photo via ibnu aldent
Alau-Alau Boutique Resort
Address: Jalan Sinar Laut, No. 81, Desa Ketang, Kelurahan Way Urang, Kecamatan Kalianda, Way Urang, Lampung, Indonesia.
Phone: +62 811-727-638
Where to stay: Alau Alau Boutique Resort. Wooden cottage from Rp. 400,000 (approximately USD $30.05)
Getting there:
Estimated total return cost: USD $5
Estimated total return cost: USD $53
1. Take a flight to Jakarta (approximately USD $70 for a return flight).
2. From Soekarno-Hatta airport, take Bus Damri to Merak Harbour (USD $4.50).
3. Then, take the ferry to Bakauheni Port (USD $1).
4. From Bakauheni, take public transportation to Kalianda (USD $2).
Estimated total return cost: USD $77.50
9. Blue lagoon with limestone rocks: Wedi Ombo Beach
A 2.5-hour drive from the city of Yogyakarta leads you to Wedi Ombo Beach, a beautiful bay with soft powdery sand surrounded by natural coral rocks. The deep blue sea is home to mighty ocean waves that roll steadily to the shore, a dream come true for surfers!

Photo by tomofarro
From the parking lot on the hill, where you can get drinks and snacks at local food stalls, you have to walk down the stairs to get to the beach.
The sea here is not safe for swimming, but if you turn left and keep going for about 5 to 10 minutes, you will reach a stunning natural blue lagoon surrounded by limestone rocks. Here, you can safely swim, enjoy amazing ocean views and take some really nice photos!

Photo via soga soegiarto

Photo via a revan
As the tide rises, waves will start crashing over the rocks, creating little waterfalls. It might be wise to get out of the water at this time – you don’t want to get dragged down into the ocean!

Photo via syiwaaaank
Wedi Ombo Beach is also famous for fishing from the height of a coral reef. The climb to get up there is quite steep and slippery, but once you’re up there, you may be rewarded with some real big catches!

photo by rrriyand
Pantai Wedi Ombo
Address: Balong, Girisubo, Gunung Kidul, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Entrance fee: Rp. 10,000 (approximately USD $0.75)
Where to stay: Kampoeng Baron Guest House, Rp. 1,000,000 (approximately USD 75.44) for a Standard Room for 2 people (but you may get up to 50% discount on weekdays or during low season). You can also camp on their premises.
Getting there:
Estimated total return cost: USD $13
Estimated total return cost: USD $57
1. Take a flight to Yogyakarta (from USD $140 for a return flight).
2. Take the TransJogja bus to Terminal Giwangan (USD $0.25).
3. Then, take the bus to Terminal Wonosari (USD $0.50).
4. Take the minibus to Jepitu (USD $0.75).
5. Take a motorcycle taxi to the beach (USD $0.50).
Estimated total return cost: USD $142
10. Paradise Beach: Nampu Beach
The sea at Nampu beach is as clear as the sweet blue summer sky and the sandy shore is soft and powdery, creating the idyllic setting for a wonderful day out with your loved ones. Not many people know about Nampu Beach yet, so you can enjoy untouched nature here in peace.

Photo via jenniferadhya
When the tide is low, the local villagers come to collect seaweed from the shore. You can even fish here too!

Photo via mespin zulian samaloisa
It takes around 2 hours to drive to Nampu Beach from the city of Wonogiri, where most accommodations can be found. Come to enjoy the sunrise or sunset!

Photo via neishaprabandari

photo by ariwdy
If you get hungry, you can buy some noodles from the beach vendors.
Nampu Beach
Address: Gunturharjo, Paranggupito, Kabupaten Wonogiri, Jawa Tengah
Entrance fee: Rp. 2.000
Where to stay: Hotel Diafan in Wonogiri. A superior room costs Rp. 300.000 (approximately USD $22.55). There are cheaper rooms available as well.
Getting there:
Estimated total return cost: USD $26.50
Estimated total return cost: USD $70.50
1. Take a flight to Jakarta (from USD $70 for a return flight).
2. Take the airport bus to Gambir Station (USD $3).
3. Take the train to Solo (from USD $6).
4. Take another train to Wonogiri (USD $0.50).
5. Charter a car (from USD $20 per day).
Estimated total return cost: USD $99.50
11. Land of the Giants: Romodong Beach
On Bangka Island lies a desolate 4-kilometre-long white sand beach, surrounded by massive boulder rocks. You will enter the beach through a giant granite gate, which is great for photo-taking.

Photo via orizuka
In fact, you’ll realise how small you really are – as though you have entered the land of giants!

Photo via mondeo ka
The sea is clear blue, there are gentle waves and the ambience is perfectly tranquil.

Photo via candy ariana
Bring your family, a picnic basket, some beach sarongs, swimsuit, a beach hat and sunblock. Watch the kids built castles in the sand, swim in the sea and relax the day away.

Photo via mondeo ka
Prepare for a jaw-dropping sunset as well!
Romodong Beach
Address: Bukit Ketok, Belinyu, Bukit Ketok, Belinyu, Kabupaten Bangka
Where to stay:
1) Tanjung Pesona Beach Hotel, starts from Rp. 495,000 (approximately USD $37.22)
2) Golden Dragon Hotel, starts from 350,000 (approximately USD $26.30) a night.
Website
Getting there:
1. Take a flight to Pangkal Pinang (from USD $60 for a return flight).
2. Charter a car (from USD $25 per day).
Estimated total return cost: USD $85
1. Take the Batam Fast Ferry from Harbourfront Centre to Batam Centre (USD $23 for a return ticket).
2. Take a taxi to Hang Nadim airport (from USD $5.50).
3. Take a flight to Pangkal Pinang (from USD $50 for a return ticket).
4. Charter a car (from USD $25 per day).
Estimated total return cost: USD $103.50
12. Pagoda on the beach: Tikus Beach
Tikus Beach is divided into two areas. On one side, there is a resort and spa with a stretch of private beach as well as a swimming pool. You can enter this resort for Rp. 30,000 (approximately USD $2.25).

Photo via zairozyjhd
On the other side, you will find an equally beautiful beach, accessible to everyone for free.

Photo via barnashaha
Huge granite rocks in various shapes rest on the pristine white sand of the coastline, and up on the hill, a Chinese Pagoda temple sits peacefully overlooking the ocean. The view from above is simply breathtaking!

photo by dindadwptr

Photo via xiaoofung, kresensiana
Tikus translates to ‘rat’, not a very attractive name but apparently, this place used to be crowded with rats. A giant golden rat statue even sits on the beach!

Photo via dewi suryani329
Your kids will love the playground, and there’s a restaurant and watersport activities available at affordable prices too. Time to bring your family there!
Pantai Tikus
Address: Parit Padang, Sungai Liat, Bangka Regency, Bangka Belitung Islands
Where to stay:
1) The beachfront Pesona Bay Hotel, starts at Rp. 400.000 (approximately USD $30,05).
2) Sejati Hotel, starts at Rp. 147,273 (approximately USD $11).
Getting there:
1. Take a flight to Pangkal Pinang (from about USD $60 for a return flight).
2. Charter a car (from USD $25 per day).
Estimated total return cost: USD $85
1. Take the Batam Fast Ferry from Harbourfront Centre to Batam Centre (USD $23 for a return ticket).
2. Take a taxi to Hang Nadim airport (from USD $5.50).
3. Take a flight to Pangkal Pinang (from USD $50 for a return flight).
4. Charter a car (from USD $25 per day).
Estimated total return cost: $103.50
13. An amazing underwater world: Kelagian Island, Lampung
Kelagian Island is an amazing place for snorkeling and admiring colourful corals and the rich marine life. The water is crystal clear and calm, and the sand is soft and powdery white, just like on a true paradise island.

Photo via soviayunita
You’ll love to spend the day at the beach to swim and tan yourself. The island is very small, so you can take a stroll or collect seashells by the beach.

Photo via assihrh
For a bit of fun, go on a Banana Boat ride with friends or hire a canoe to go kayaking in the sea. Why not charter a boat to go on a snorkeling trip too?

Photo via nichoje

Photo via borisanggoro, ariekoprasasti
Buy some delicious fried bananas or instant noodles from the local food stalls, and as you savour your snack, don’t forget to enjoy the magnificent sunset!
Kelagian Island, Lampung