Information
Landmark: Thousand Islands (Kepulauan Seribu)City: Jakarta
Country: Indonesia
Continent: Asia
Thousand Islands (Kepulauan Seribu), Jakarta, Indonesia, Asia
Overview
Just north of Jakarta, the Thousand Islands (Kepulauan Seribu) scatter across the Java Sea like a chain of green dots on blue water.Made up of more than 100 islands, this tropical haven draws both locals and tourists, promising quiet beaches and a break from the noisy streets of the capital.With crystal-clear water lapping at white sand and schools of bright fish darting below the surface, the Thousand Islands offer an ideal spot for water sports, quiet escapes, and eco-friendly adventures.Highlights of Thousand Islands, from its misty morning shores to its hidden rocky coves.The Thousand Islands, or Kepulauan Seribu, are split into two main areas: the Inner Islands, just a short trip from Jakarta, and the more remote Outer Islands.Popular spots include Pramuka Island, home to a marine park and active conservation work; Tidung Island, famous for its long wooden bridge and vibrant snorkeling sites; Bidadari Island, with soft white sand and plenty of water sports; Harapan Island, a peaceful haven for nature walks and birdwatching; Macan Island, known for eco-resorts and dive spots; and Kelor Island, where an old fort looks out over scenic trails.Beneath the clear blue water, coral reefs teem with sea turtles, rays, and bright fish darting between branching coral.Divers and snorkelers often head to Pramuka, Tidung, and Macan for their rich underwater scenes, while marine protected zones work to restore coral and safeguard rare species.The entire archipelago plays a key role in Indonesia’s push for eco-tourism and conservation.Many of the islands work hard to protect their natural habitats and rich biodiversity.On Pramuka Island, you can even spot tiny sea turtles making their way to the shore, thanks to its well-known conservation program.Eco-resorts across the area offer sustainable stays that blend comfort with care for the environment.For adventure on the water, grab a kayak and glide into hidden coves, hop on a jet ski for a burst of speed, join a fishing trip in the teeming blue waters, or just sink your toes into soft sand while playing volleyball or beach soccer.History lingers here too-Kelor Island holds the remains of an old Dutch fort, while Onrust Island reveals archaeological traces of a busy colonial port and ships long gone.Pura Luhur Temple, standing quietly on another island, offers a glimpse into the area’s spiritual heritage.Reaching the Thousand Islands is simple: they lie only 45 minutes to an hour and a half by boat from Jakarta’s Ancol Marina, with both regular departures and private charters ready to ferry you across.You can reach some islands by speedboat or ferry, and they’re open all year, though April to October usually brings dry skies and calm seas.Several islands host eco-resorts that blend with the landscape, from simple wooden cottages to more upscale retreats, while others offer homestays with local families for a warmer, more personal touch.Expect to pay around IDR 50,000–100,000 for a return boat trip from Ancol Marina, with accommodation costs varying by the resort or homestay you choose.Nightly rates run anywhere from IDR 300,000 to 1,500,000, and visitors can join activities like a sunrise beach walk.Stretch out on soft white sand, soaking up the warm sun while a light breeze brushes your skin on the shores of Bidadari, Tidung, or Harapan islands.Bring your own snorkel-or rent one from a local boatman-and spend the day exploring the vivid coral gardens beneath the waves.Pramuka and Tidung islands are well-known for their clear-water snorkeling spots, where bright fish dart between corals, and many of the smaller islands are easy to explore on a bike.Tidung Island, especially, has scenic cycling paths that wind along its coastline, where you might catch the scent of salt on the breeze.You can join a fishing trip and try the local style, casting a line from a boat or right off the beach.On Kelor Island, short hiking trails climb up gentle hills, rewarding you with sweeping views of the sea and nearby islets.For the best experience, plan your trip between April and October, when the dry season brings clear skies and ideal weather for diving, water sports, and exploring outdoors.From November to March, the islands see fewer visitors, making it a great time to hear only the soft rush of waves and enjoy the quiet.The Thousand Islands (Kepulauan Seribu) offer a refreshing escape from Jakarta, where natural beauty, adventure, and calm all meet.Whether you’re diving among coral gardens, snorkeling in clear turquoise water, stretching out on soft white sand, or soaking up the rhythm of local life, this archipelago has something for you.Since it’s just a short trip from Jakarta, it’s perfect for a quick weekend escape or even a day visit, offering eco‑friendly activities-like guided snorkeling-that help protect the islands’ fragile ecosystems.
