Let’s be real Bali is magical, but it’s also packed. If you’ve ever fought for a spot on Seminyak Beach or waited 20 minutes for a smoothie bowl in Canggu, you know what I mean. But guess what? Just a short boat ride away, there are secret islands near Bali where you can actually hear yourself think. No Instagram influencers, no overpriced coconut water, just pure, unfiltered paradise.
I’ve explored these hidden gems (some accidentally, thanks to questionable boat captains), and I’m sharing the best ones with you. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or just someone who hates crowds, these spots are your ticket to peace, epic snorkeling, and beaches so empty you’ll feel like you’ve discovered them yourself.
Ready to escape the tourist traps? Let’s go.
1. Nusa Penida’s Secret Twin: Nusa Lembongan
Okay, Nusa Lembongan isn’t exactly unknown, but compared to its famous neighbor Nusa Penida, it’s practically deserted. While everyone’s elbowing for a photo at Kelingking Beach, you could be sipping a Bintang on a quiet stretch of sand here.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Dreamy Beaches Without the Crowds – Jungut Batu and Mushroom Bay are stunning but way less chaotic than Bali’s hotspots.
- Affordable Beachfront Bungalows – Unlike Seminyak, you can actually afford to sleep on the beach.
- Great for Snorkeling & Freediving – The water is crystal clear, and there’s a good chance you’ll spot manta rays.
Pro Tip: Rent a scooter and explore Devil’s Tear at sunset. The waves crashing against the cliffs are insane (in a good way).
2. The Maldives of Indonesia: Gili Meno
The Gili Islands are technically near Lombok, but since they’re a quick boat ride from Bali, they count. Gili Trawangan is the party island, Gili Air is the chill one, and Gili Meno? It’s where you go when you want to pretend you’re stranded on a deserted island (but with Wi-Fi).
Why It’s Perfect for Escaping Tourists:
- The Quietest of the Gilis Fewer people, more hammocks.
- Romantic Vibes Ever seen those floating heart-shaped docks in photos? Yeah, that’s here.
- Turtle Spotting Guaranteed The snorkeling here is unreal I once saw five turtles in 10 minutes.
FYI: There are no cars or motorbikes, just bicycles and horse carts. If that doesn’t scream escape from reality, I don’t know what does.
3. The Underrated Paradise: Nusa Ceningan
Nusa Ceningan is the tiny, often overlooked sibling of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida. Most people just pass through on their way to the bigger islands, which means you get it all to yourself.
What Makes It Special:
- Insane Blue Lagoon – The water is so blue it looks Photoshopped.
- Secret Beaches – Secret Point Beach is exactly what it sounds like.
- Best Cliff Jumping Spot – Mahana Point is where adrenaline junkies leap into the ocean (or, like me, watch nervously with a cocktail).
Personal Take: The Yellow Bridge connecting Lembongan and Ceningan is iconic, but the real magic is in Ceningan’s laid-back vibe.
4. The Island Time Forgot: Gili Sudak
Never heard of it? Exactly. Gili Sudak is a micro-island off Lombok’s southwest coast, and it’s so tiny you can walk around it in 15 minutes.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
- Zero Crowds I’m talking maybe five other travelers.
- Perfect for Camping Pitch a tent right on the beach.
- Snorkeling Straight from Shore The coral reefs are untouched.
Warning: There’s barely any infrastructure just a few homestays and warungs (local eateries). If you want off-grid vibes, this is it.
5. The Ultimate Secluded Escape: Gili Nanggu
Another Lombok gem, Gili Nanggu is like someone took “deserted island” and added a few palm trees and a hammock.
Why You Should Go:
- One Resort on the Whole Island That’s right, one.
- Private Beach Feels You’ll have the sand to yourself.
- Incredible Coral Gardens The snorkeling is some of the best I’ve seen.
IMO: If you’re looking for digital detox material, this is it.
How to Visit These Secret Islands (Without the Hassle)
Now, before you grab a random boat and hope for the best, here’s how to do it right:
Best Ways to Get There:
- Fast Boats from Bali Companies like Rocky Fast Cruise or Gili Getaway go to the Gilis and Nusa Islands.
- Private Charter Split the cost with friends if you want flexibility.
- Public Ferries (for the adventurous) Cheaper, but… expect delays (this is island time, after all).
When to Go:
- Dry Season (April–October) Calmer seas, better snorkeling.
- Avoid Peak Holidays – Unless you want to relive the crowds you’re escaping.
Final Thoughts: Skip the Crowds, Find Your Paradise
Bali will always be amazing, but if you’re craving something quieter, these secret islands are your golden ticket. Whether it’s camping under the stars on Gili Sudak or jumping off cliffs in Nusa Ceningan, each of these spots offers something unique without the tourist circus.
So, which one will you explore first? Or are you keeping these secrets to yourself? (I won’t blame you.)
Happy island-hopping!