Bahasa version -> https://indonesia.tripcanvas.co/id/water-villa-surga/
Close your eyes and imagine you’re on a secret island where no one knows.
You find yourself awake in a beautiful little house that’s gracefully perched atop the shimmering lagoon. As you draw open the curtains, you’re greeted by the clear blue skies and you think to yourself, this is paradise.
Also read: 6 majestic Bali’s water villas that you can jump into the water from your room
Sounds like a dream to you? It can be your reality here in Indonesia, with gorgeous surrounding islands and hidden gem-stays. No doubt, water bungalows are becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination and we bring to you a compilation of our best water bungalows in Indonesia.
1. The island of romance – Pulo Cinta Eco Resort
Nothing’s more romantic than a forbidden love story. Word has it that the tiny private island that Pulo Cinta Eco Resort is situated on was once the place where the prince of Gorontalo and the daughter of a Dutch trader conducted their forbidden love affair.
Nowadays, the island has moved on to become the go-to destination for happy couples instead of star-crossed ones, but it hasn’t stopped being the place where romance comes alive!
The resort’s luxurious water villas are arranged into a very apt heart shape, providing you with panoramic views of the sea for miles.
You can also explore untouched dive sites, stargaze, or even just enjoy a sweet candlelight dinner on the shore. It’s pretty hard not to fall in love (with this place)!
Pulo Cinta Eco Resort
Address: Boalemo, Gorontalo – Indonesia. Coordinates here.
Check rate on Booking.com 1. Take LionAir or Sriwijaya Air to Gorontalo Jalaluddin Airport (stopover at Makassar) for about Rp. 1.5 mil – 2.5 mil per person. (return flights)
1. Take SilkAir to Manado International Airport for about SGD 507.5 (return flights) per person (about 3 hrs 45 min flight).
Rates from USD 351 (Including 3 meals and transfer from Port Tilamuta)
Address: Boalemo, Gorontalo – Indonesia. Coordinates here.
Contact: +62 858 8821 1121
Website
Check rate on Booking.com Getting There:
From JakartaFrom Singapore (click here to view)
1. Take LionAir or Sriwijaya Air to Gorontalo Jalaluddin Airport (stopover at Makassar) for about Rp. 1.5 mil – 2.5 mil per person. (return flights)
2. Continue the journey by car to Boalemo. (duration 2 hours)
3. Take a boat to Pulo Cinta (25 minutes ride)
1. Take SilkAir to Manado International Airport for about SGD 507.5 (return flights) per person (about 3 hrs 45 min flight).
2. Take LionAir to Gorontalo Jalaluddin Airport for about SGD 111 (return flights) per person (about 40 min flight).
3. Continue the journey by car to Boalemo. (duration 2 hours)
4. Take a boat to Pulo Cinta (25 minutes ride)
2. Seclusion in the mountains and forest – Ora Beach Resort (Central Maluku)
We’re not going to deny it – the journey here is arduous, but some things are just worth it.
Ora Beach Resort is one place that will have you squealing in delight. You will soon forget the difficult journey and be glad you set your foot here.
Mountainous terrains and forested peaks are the picturesque backdrop to this family-owned resort. There are only 5 water bungalows, so be sure to book in advance!
Ora Beach Resort (Central Maluku)
Rates from USD $77
WebsiteGetting There:
From JakartaFrom Singapore (click here to view)
1. From Jakarta: Take flight to Ambon Pattimura Airport (about 3h 40min) via Lion Air, Sriwijaya for about USD $230 (return flights)
2. Take a taxi and make your way to Tulehu Port (30mins) for about USD $12
3. Catch a ferry to Masohi (in Seram), Amahai port (90 mins by fast boat)
4. Masohi to Saleman Village (2h by car) and take a small boat (5 mins ride) to Ora Beach Resort
5. More information: Contact [email protected] or call 0817 0833554
Estimated total return cost: ~ USD $300
1. From Singapore: Take flight to Jakarta via Tigerair, Jetstar, Garuda Indonesia or AirAsia (1 hour 50 min) from about USD $90 (return flights)
1. After you reach Jakarta, take flight to Ambon Pattimura Airport (about 3h 40min) via Lion Air, Sriwijaya for about USD $230 (return flights)
2. Take a taxi and make your way to Tulehu Port (30mins) for about USD $12
3. Catch a ferry to Masohi (in Seram), Amahai port (90 mins by fast boat)
4. Masohi to Saleman Village (2h by car) and take a small boat (5 mins ride) to Ora Beach Resort
5. More information: Contact [email protected] or call 0817 0833554
Estimated total return cost: ~ USD $400
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3. A private escape – Telunas Resorts Private Island (A short boat ride from Batam)
If your ideal vacation is on a private island, this newly opened resort will not disappoint.
Each of their 15 sea villas are designed specifically for ultra comfort, and the see-through windows in the living room ensure you get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding Sugi Islands.
Soak yourself in the infinity pool with your other half as you watch the setting sun. Isn’t it such a romantic way to spend your vacation?
Searching for some exhilaration? We promise you will fall in love with dock jumping as you plunge into the cooling waters.
There are plenty of activities organized by the resort, such as standup paddle boarding, mangrove river tour, sea kayaking, and many more to keep you entertained!
Teluna Resorts Private Island (A short boat ride from Batam)
Rates from USD $150
WebsiteGetting There:
From JakartaFrom Singapore (click here to view)
1. From Jakarta: Fly to Hang Nadim Airport (BTH) in Batam for about USD $90 (return flights) via Lion Air, Sriwijaya.
2. Then take a taxi (about USD $8) to Sekupang International Ferry Terminal (45min)
3. Upon arrival at Sekupang, Telunas Staff will help you with the domestic transfer.
Estimated total return cost: ~ USD $110
1. From Singapore: Take a ferry via BatamFast for about SGD 50 round trip (~ USD $36) from Harbourfront Ferry Terminal to Sekupang International Ferry Terminal (1hr)
2. Upon arrival at Sekupang, Telunas Staff will help you with the domestic transfer
Estimated total return cost: ~ USD $36
4. Finding happiness in remoteness – Papua Paradise Eco-Resort (Raja Ampat)
Papua Paradise Eco-Resort transports you back to a time when technology was sacred and happiness was so simple.
Thoughtfully designed by local architects and using only the finest traditional materials from Raja Ampat, these water bungalows come with a spacious veranda overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
The restaurant comes with a great view and even greater food. You can expect a scrumptious buffet ranging from European to traditional Indonesian food, as they serve fresh and homegrown products.
Craving for some compressed air? Head down to the dive centre and get your PADI diving certification!
Papua Paradise Eco-Resort (Raja Ampat)
Rates from USD $485
Check Rate on Papua Paradise WebsiteGetting There:
From JakartaFrom Singapore (click here to view)
1. Nearest airport: Sorong (Fly via Lion Air / Sriwijaya from USD $400 for a return trip from Jakarta. Transit at Ambon/Manado, 7 hrs inclusive of transit and waiting)
2. From Sorong airport, take a taxi (15 mins) for USD $10 to the Sorong Pelabuhan Rakyat harbor. You are encouraged to book a night stay at Sorong before continuing the trip the next day as the boat leaves at 11 am and 2 pm. (Schedules can change without notice, please contact Sorong tourism office for more accurate ferry information.
3. You can buy a ticket at the counter and catch an express ferry (about 2 hrs) for USD $14 to Waisai. They run every day except Islamic Indonesian public holidays.
4. From Waisai, your hotel staff (please arrange with them beforehand) will be waiting for you at the port to pick you up.
Estimated total return cost: ~ USD $450
1. There is no direct flight from Singapore to Raja Ampat’s nearest Airport – Sorong. The recommended way of getting there is SG-Makassar-Sorong.
2. SilkAir offers flights from Singapore to Makassar (Ujung Pandan) from USD $270 (return flights cost, 3 hours flight)
3. From Makassar, fly via Lion Air / Sriwijaya airlines to Sorong from USD $230 (return flights cost, 3 hours 20 min flight)
4. From Sorong airport, take a taxi (15 mins) for USD $10 to the Sorong Pelabuhan Rakyat harbor. You are encouraged to book a night stay at Sorong before continuing the trip the next day as the boat leaves at 11 am and 2 pm. (Schedules can change without notice, please contact Sorong tourism office for more accurate ferry information.
5. You can buy a ticket at the counter and catch an express ferry (about 2 hrs) for USD $14 to Waisai. They run every day except Islamic Indonesian public holidays.
6. From Waisai, your hotel staff (please arrange with them beforehand) will be waiting for you at the port to pick you up.
Estimated total return cost: ~ USD $ 550
5. Your ultimate relaxation on water – Misool Eco Resort (Raja Ampat)
Misool Eco Resort is located in Indonesia’s Raja Ampat archipelago, and nestled among uninhabited islands. Known for its eco and conservation efforts, the resort builds its villas from reclaimed tropical hardwood.
Rooms are of a minimalistic style, yet inviting and cosy.
Do you feel like you have the luxury of time? Sit by the balcony, read a book and simply watch the world pass by. Or you can meditate as you soak in the fresh air of nature.
Upon request, its in-house therapists provide soothing massages in the comfort of your own room too!
You can also arrange for excursion trips to the mangroves and deserted beaches. Just ask the friendly staff for recommendations.
Excitement and adventure awaits you and your family here.
Misool Eco Resort (Raja Ampat)
Rates from USD $793
Check Rate on Misool Eco Resort WebsiteGetting There:
From JakartaFrom Singapore (click here to view)
1. Nearest airport: Sorong (Fly via Lion Air / Sriwijaya from USD $400 for a return trip from Jakarta. Transit at Ambon/Manado, 7 hrs inclusive of transit and waiting)
2. From Sorong airport, take a taxi (15 mins) for USD $10 to the Sorong Pelabuhan Rakyat harbor. You are encouraged to book a night stay at Sorong before continuing the trip the next day as the boat leaves at 11 am and 2 pm. (Schedules can change without notice, please contact Sorong tourism office for more accurate ferry information.
3. You can buy a ticket at the counter and catch an express ferry (about 2 hrs) for USD $14 to Waisai. They run every day except Islamic Indonesian public holidays.
4. From Waisai, your hotel staff (please arrange with them beforehand) will be waiting for you at the port to pick you up.
5. Alternatively you can have the resort arrange a private speedboat transfer from Sorong Pelabuhan Rakyat habour.
Estimated total return cost: ~ USD $450
1. There is no direct flight from Singapore to Raja Ampat’s nearest Airport – Sorong. The recommended way of getting there is SG-Makassar-Sorong.
2. SilkAir offers flights from Singapore to Makassar (Ujung Pandan) from USD $270 (return flights cost, 3 hours flight)
3. From Makassar, fly via Lion Air / Sriwijaya airlines to Sorong from USD $230 (return flights cost, 3 hours 20 min flight)
4. From Sorong airport, take a taxi (15 mins) for USD $10 to the Sorong Pelabuhan Rakyat harbor. You are encouraged to book a night stay at Sorong before continuing the trip the next day as the boat leaves at 11 am and 2 pm. (Schedules can change without notice, please contact Sorong tourism office for more accurate ferry information.
5. You can buy a ticket at the counter and catch an express ferry (about 2 hrs) for USD $14 to Waisai. They run every day except Islamic Indonesian public holidays.
6. From Waisai, your hotel staff (please arrange with them beforehand) will be waiting for you at the port to pick you up.
7. Alternatively you can have the resort arrange a private speedboat transfer from Sorong Pelabuhan Rakyat habour.
Estimated total return cost: ~ USD $ 550
6. Your affordable weekend staycation – Pulau Ayer Resort & Cottages (Thousand Islands)
Less than 25 minutes via ferry from Jakarta, it is no wonder Pulau Ayer is your perfect weekend getaway.
Built 3 metres above sea level, the floating cottages are fully air-conditioned and come with magnificent ocean views.
You can forget about the pollution and congestion in the city and find nothing but serenity and tranquility here.
This place is also a haven for adrenaline-seeking daredevils – there’s surf biking, jet skiing, banana boating and many more activities for you to choose from.
Did we also mention that booking a room here won’t burn your wallet?
Pulau Ayer Resort & Cottages (Thousand Islands)
Rates from USD $30
Check Rate on ThousandIslands.co.id WebsiteGetting There:
From JakartaFrom Singapore (click here to view)
1. Take a boat from Ancol Marina Jakarta to Thousand Islands (about 30 mins) for about USD $2. You may purchase the tickets at the counter.
Estimated total return cost: USD $4
1. From Singapore: Take a flight to Jakarta via Tigerair, Jetstar, Garuda Indonesia or AirAsia (1 hour 50 min) from about USD $90 (return flights)
2. From Jakarta Airport, take a taxi to Ancol Marina Jakarta ( < USD $10, 20 min ride without traffic)
3. From Ancol Marina Jakarta, take a boat to Thousand Islands (about 30 mins) for about USD $2. You may purchase the tickets at the counter.
Estimated total return cost: ~ USD $120
7. Finding abundance in simple natural beauty – Hamu Eco Resort (Raja Ampat)
Tired of extravagant and luxury indulgences? Well, you can strip down to the bare minimum and still find pleasure.
Furnished only with basic amenities, Hamu Eco Resort proves to you that all you need is an open mind and open heart.
Go for an eco tour, take a stroll by the beach and you will be in for a pleasant surprise at the natural beauty of Raja Ampat.
In case you were wondering, room rates are inclusive of all three meals. Where else can you find a better deal?
Hamu Eco Resort (Raja Ampat)
Rates from USD $50
Website
Check Rate on Agoda Check rate on Booking.com Getting There:
From JakartaFrom Singapore (click here to view)
1. Nearest airport: Sorong (Fly via Lion Air / Sriwijaya from USD $400 for a return trip from Jakarta. Transit at Ambon/Manado, 7 hrs inclusive of transit and waiting)
2. From Sorong airport, take a taxi (15 mins) for USD $10 to the Sorong Pelabuhan Rakyat harbor. You are encouraged to book a night stay at Sorong before continuing the trip the next day as the boat leaves at 11 am and 2 pm. (Schedules can change without notice, please contact Sorong tourism office for more accurate ferry information.
3. You can buy a ticket at the counter and catch an express ferry (about 2 hrs) for USD $14 to Waisai. They run every day except Islamic Indonesian public holidays.
4. From Waisai, your hotel staff (please arrange with them beforehand) will be waiting for you at the port to pick you up.
Estimated total return cost: ~ USD $450
1. There is no direct flight from Singapore to Raja Ampat’s nearest Airport – Sorong. The recommended way of getting there is SG-Makassar-Sorong.
2. SilkAir offers flights from Singapore to Makassar (Ujung Pandan) from USD $270 (return flights cost, 3 hours flight)
3. From Makassar, fly via Lion Air / Sriwijaya airlines to Sorong from USD $230 (return flights cost, 3 hours 20 min flight)
4. From Sorong airport, take a taxi (15 mins) for USD $10 to the Sorong Pelabuhan Rakyat harbor. You are encouraged to book a night stay at Sorong before continuing the trip the next day as the boat leaves at 11 am and 2 pm. (Schedules can change without notice, please contact Sorong tourism office for more accurate ferry information.
5. You can buy a ticket at the counter and catch an express ferry (about 2 hrs) for USD $14 to Waisai. They run every day except Islamic Indonesian public holidays.
6. From Waisai, your hotel staff (please arrange with them beforehand) will be waiting for you at the port to pick you up.
Estimated total return cost: ~ USD $ 550
8. Heaven is a place on earth – Maratua Paradise Resort (Maratua Islands)
Lying in the east coast of Borneo Island is Maratua Paradise Resort, a little slice of paradise.
Featuring 5 cool water bungalows and 8 beach bungalows, this place is indeed a sanctuary with its beautiful, white-palm sand beach and crystal clear waters.
Snorkel if you like, if not, you can easily spot carefree fishes swimming below the pier.
Don’t say we didn’t warn you though, book way in advance to secure your villa!
Maratua Paradise Resort (Maratua Islands)
Getting There:
From JakartaFrom Singapore (click here to view)
1. From Jakarta: Take flight to Balikpapan (3hrs) and another flight from Balikpapan to Berau (Tanjung Redeb – 1hr). Return flights via Lion Air / Sriwijaya at USD $220 or via Garuda Indonesia at USD $260.
2. Take a taxi from Berau to Tanjung Batu (2.5hrs ride, USD $35 chartered/USD $6 per person)
3. Take a boat from Tanjung Batu to Derawan Islands (30mins ride, USD $20 chartered boat/USD $6 per person)
Estimated total return cost: ~ USD $300
1. From Singapore: Take flight to Balikpapan via Garuda Indonesia from USD $270 (return flights, 2.5 hours flight)
2. From Balikpapan, take a flight via Lion Air or Sriwijaya to Berau (Tanjung Redeb) (around USD $100 return flights, 1 hour duration)
3. Take a taxi from Berau to Tanjung Batu (2.5hrs ride, USD $35 chartered/USD $6 per person)
4. Take a boat from Tanjung Batu to Derawan Islands (30mins ride, USD $20 chartered boat/USD $6 per person)
Estimated total return cost: ~ USD $400
9. Of good food and good dive – Kadidiri Paradise Resort (Togian Islands)
Are you a traveller who swears to support only local food? Then you’re in the right place here at Kadidiri Paradise Resort.
Your 3 meals will be well taken care of, cooked in Indonesian style, using only the finest and freshest local produce. Have we whetted your appetite?
Constructed next to the white sandy beach, all 30 bungalows are made from real wood. And they come with a hammock resting place.
If you decide to go for a night dive, you’re definitely in safe hands with the experienced dive masters. They come from all walks of life, with interesting tales to share. But most importantly, they relish the blissful life here.
Kadidiri Paradise Resort (Togian Islands)
Rates from USD $30
Check Rate on Kadidiri Paradise WebsiteGetting There:
From JakartaFrom Singapore (click here to view)
1. From Jakarta: Fly to Palu (2h 45min) via Lion Air from USD $180 (return flights cost)
2. Take a bus to Ampana. Public minibus available daily (about USD $10) from 9am to 4pm (9 hrs ride). Chartered cars are also available.
3. From Ampana, take a ferry down to Wakai. Tickets can be bought on the spot for USD $5.
4. Hire a private boat from Wakai to the resort.
Estimated total return cost: ~USD $210
1. From Singapore: Take flight to Jakarta via Tigerair, Jetstar, Garuda Indonesia or AirAsia (1 hour 50 min) from about USD $90 (return flights)
2. From Jakarta: Fly to Palu (2h 45min) via Lion Air from USD $180 (return flights cost)
3. Take a bus to Ampana. Public minibus available daily (about USD $10) from 9am to 4pm (9 hrs ride). Chartered cars are also available.
4. From Ampana, take a ferry down to Wakai. Tickets can be bought on the spot for USD $5.
5. Hire a private boat from Wakai to the resort.
Estimated total return cost: ~USD $300
Can’t get enough of the water-villas?
We’ve also discovered two upcoming special projects that are guaranteed to leave you marveling and looking forward to them!
Special Mentions (Coming Soon!)
1. Sleep with the dolphins in an eco theme park – Funtasy Island (Batam)
Think state-of-the-art-technology and sprawling water bungalows built over a cluster of six islands while preserving the natural environment.
Funtasy Island is also strategically located just a 30min boat ride from the nearest neighbouring country – Singapore.
Set to be the world’s largest eco-resort, Funtasy Island is indeed a developer’s loftiest dream come true.
Attractions include a water world-park, eco theme park, meetings rooms and convention centres. There are fun-filled activities for everyone in the family.
Over-water residences are also available for sale – you can actually live directly in a dolphin habitat – the friendly creatures will leap up right in front of your villa in the ocean!
Watch for it to unveil in late 2015!
2. Live like royalty – The Reef (Thousand Islands)
Looking for a luxury escape?
Here, in the island of Karan Beras in Thousand Island, is where you find eternal beauty.
Each villa in The Reef comes with private balconies and alfresco bathrooms. Did we also mention private access to the ocean from your villa?
Check-ins will be done in the villa and private butlers are also available upon request.
Yes, everything here is that exclusive, you will feel completely like royalty.
The Reef will open its doors in 2017, so it’s time to start saving for your dream holiday!
Do you know of more exotic water villas in Indonesia that should be added to this story? Share it with us!
Travel Writer
Bahasa