If you’re looking for a short getaway to escape the hustle and bustle of Jakarta, the best place to unwind is the Thousand Islands. Located off the northern coast of Jakarta, this archipelago consists of 11 inhabited islands and 36 tourist destinations out of a total of 108 islands.
Not only can you swim, snorkel, and dive, but you can also take a stroll around the islands or simply relax all day while enjoying the sea and sunbathe under the warm sunlight. At the heart of the Thousand Islands is the Thousand Islands National Marine Park, which includes several islands such as Semak Daun, Gosong Pramuka, Karang Lebar, Karang Balik Layar, and Pulau Kotok. For those who love diving, there are 19 dive spots with stunning underwater views waiting to be explored.
The Thousand Islands also has historic islands such as Onrust Island, Cipir, Kelor, and Bidadari. When you walk around Onrust Island, you will find archaeological remnants. Don’t miss the chance to visit the exotic Pulau Macan, which also offers eco-friendly accommodations. On Pulau Tidung Besar and Pulau Tidung Kecil, there is an iconic bridge often referred to as the “Love Bridge.” You can cross this bridge by bike while exploring the island and interacting with its friendly locals. Pulau Pari, usually a bit more crowded than other islands, has a hidden beach called Pantai Perawan. This beach offers beautiful views and is home to various types of coral reefs. The furthest island from Jakarta is Pulau Putri. Here, you can walk through an underwater tunnel while observing the amazing marine life beneath the surface.
Exploring the Thousand Islands
You can explore the islands on foot, but if you want to cover more ground, you can rent a bike. For a unique experience, take the time to chat with the locals and joke with the children. If you have more time, you can visit the friendly residents’ homes on the islands. There may be unforgettable stories shared during your time spent with them.
Access to the Thousand Islands
To reach the Thousand Islands, you must first head to the nearest port in Jakarta, such as Marina Ancol, Kali Adem, or Sunda Kelapa. You can also depart from Cituis Rawa Saban and Tanjung Pasir Port in Banten. From there, you can board a boat directly to the Thousand Islands. For a more comfortable and faster trip, you can take a speedboat from Marina Ancol or a ferry from Sunda Kelapa Port. If you are departing from Banten, you can only cross to certain nearby islands. Ticket prices for a one-way boat or ferry ride range from IDR 15,000 to IDR 125,000, while speedboat tickets start from IDR 110,000 to IDR 270,000. To get to these ports, you can use private vehicles or public transportation such as taxis, buses, or motorbike taxis.
Accommodation
There are many islands offering various types of accommodations, from standard rooms to exclusive beach cottages. Homestays are also a popular alternative if you prefer a more local experience. If you want to be closer to the sound of the waves and the beach breeze, you can even try camping here. Pack your bags and enjoy your holiday time!
