While Bali’s beaches are undeniably beautiful, for those seeking tranquillity and exclusivity, Indonesia has no shortage of options.
The archipelago nation of Indonesia boasts over 17,000 islands, with plenty of secluded havens beyond the well-trodden tourist trail. Exclusive resorts dot these idyllic shores, each meticulously designed, inviting discerning travellers to indulge, relax and experience the beauty of Indonesia.
Read on to learn about EXO’s pick of Indonesia’s best luxury beaches and resorts beyond Bali.
Sumba
Sumba is Indonesia’s unspoiled secret. A rugged place, untouched by mass tourism, the island offers a captivating blend of pristine beaches, rolling savannahs and vibrant local culture.
Lucky travellers who make it to Sumba are sure to be awe-struck by the wild natural beauty.
Thankfully, hoteliers also appreciate the wonder of the island and have gone to great lengths to develop sustainable properties that fully embrace Sumba’s unique traits.
From interactions with indigenous horses to farm-to-table meals, immersive cultural experiences to low-impact water sports, a stay on Sumba promises a transformative experience beyond the ordinary.
Getting there: Three flights per day connect Bali’s Denpasar Airport with Sumba Island. Once touching down, guests continue to Cap Karoso or Nihi Sumba by a scenic drive of around one-hour.
EXO’s Pick of Sumba resorts:
- Cap Karoso: Cap Karoso’s blends Sumbanese culture with the luxury of tropical solitude. The property is situated on the western tip of the island and features 44 rooms and 20 villas, each infused with local art and elements inspired by Sumba’s cultural heritage.
- Nihi Sumba: Nihi Sumba is an indulgent retreat featuring 27 uniquely designed villas each offering breathtaking ocean views, private pools and spacious living areas. With a strapline of ‘Edge of Wilderness’, it is no surprise that Nihi Sumba also offers a host of experiences that embrace its spectacular surroundings.
Medana Bay, Lombok
Lombok has slowly emerged from the shadows of neighbouring Bali, attracting discerning travellers seeking a more secluded and authentic island experience.
Located on Lombok’s northwest corner, Medana Bay is the ultimate locale with spectacular views and turquoise waters with a handful of properties distanced to ensure privacy and solitude.
The Bay is well suited for exploring Lombok’s rugged interior, where traditional Sasak villages and famous volcanoes await, and the famed Gili Islands which are located a ten-minute boat ride away.
Getting there: Private or public speed boats operate several times per day from Bali to Lombok’s Bangsal Harbour. The journey takes 2.5-3 hours followed by a 25 minute transfer to hotels in Medana Bay. Alternatively there are daily flights (40 min.) between the two islands with a drive time of 70-90 minutes from the airport to Medana. For the ultimate luxury, a private helicopter flight (30 min) is available, taking off and landing a short distance from the Bay.
EXO’s Pick of Lombok resorts:
- Oberoi Lombok: The Oberoi Lombok offers luxurious villas and pavilions with private pools set amid lush, tropical gardens. The property is a longstanding favourite thanks to its impeccable service, spectacular infinity pool and sunset views of Bali’s Mount Agung.
- Lombok Lodge: Lombok Lodge is a slice of paradise on the shores of Medana Bay. The nine luxury lodge suites blend contemporary design with tropical elements. A full suite of activities are available, from water sports to trekking, as well as an indulgent on-site spa and special private dining options for couples.
Raja Ampat
Indonesia is home to one of the world’s most beautiful and untouched archipelagos, Raja Ampat. Often billed as ‘The Last Paradise on Earth’, the area is home to more than 1500 small islands far-removed from tourist crowds.
A tapestry of underwater wonders– including manta rays, turtles, sharks, massive clams and colourful corals- present the ideal setting for snorkelling.
Raja Ampat also has plenty to discover above water, including conical islands dotted with lush mangroves, forests and white sandy beaches for swimming, relaxing and off-shore pursuits like kayaking. There are also villages where traditional life and culture has remained largely untouched by the modern world.
Getting there: Raja Ampat cruises commence and end in Sorong, a town on the island of Papua. The port is around 20-minutes drive from Sorong’s airport, which is serviced by daily flights from Jakarta and Bali’s Denpasar airport.
EXO’s pick of Raja Ampat luxury cruises:
Alila Purnam: Built in the traditional Phinsi boat style, Purnam’s spacious, luxury cabins are complemented by indulgent cuisine and impeccable, discreet service. The ship operates set departures or is available for private charter, each with a maximum of 10 guests.
Kudanil Explorer ship: This exclusive charter-only expedition yacht is the ultimate pick for discerning travellers to the Raja Ampat archipelago. The 50-metre vessel can host a maximum of 16 guests, who will enjoy impeccable service, indulgent food and an on-ship spa spacious cabins, each with a private balcony.
Planning a visit
Duration: EXO recommends spending at least five nights in Sumba, Lombok or Raja Ampat. This allows enough time to both explore the surroundings and to relax in the serene setting and indulge in the hotel amenities.
Season: The hotels and cruises are open year round, however there are distinct seasons to be aware of. For Lombok, the dry season is April to September and, similarly, on Sumba Island it is dry from May to November.
For Raja Ampat the Northwest Monsoon season (October-May) is the best time for spotting manta rays and sharks. However underwater visibility can be limited, especially during the heaviest rainfall periods of November-January. The Southeast Trade Winds (June-September) brings stronger winds and waves but amazing visibility underwater.
Ready to go? EXO Indonesia’s team of travel consultants craft custom journeys to match travellers personal interests and travel styles. Check out our collection of inspiring tours to get started then reach out to the team to start planning: [email protected]
" alt=""> 
" alt=""> 
" alt=""> 
" alt=""> 
" alt=""> 
" alt=""> 
" alt=""> 
" alt=""> 
" alt=""> 
" alt="">