Thousand Islands

Kepulauan Seribu

Archipelago of islands off Jakarta's coast offering snorkeling, diving, and island-hopping opportunities in relatively pristine waters. A popular escape from the city for beach lovers and marine enthusiasts.

Things to do

• Snorkeling at Pulau Pari — Explore vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish in the clear shallow waters surrounding this popular island just 30 minutes from Jakarta.
• Scuba diving at Pulau Semak Daun — Experience deeper marine biodiversity including larger pelagic species and pristine drop-offs in one of the archipelago's premier diving destinations.
• Island hopping tour — Visit multiple islands in a single day via speedboat, typically including stops at Pulau Untung Jawa, Pulau Genteng, and Pulau Kelapa for beach time and local village exploration.
• Mangrove forest kayaking at Pulau Rambut — Paddle through dense mangrove ecosystems while spotting migratory birds and learning about the islands' ecological importance as a marine bird sanctuary.
• Beach relaxation at Pulau Kelapa — Enjoy white-sand beaches and calm waters at this accessible island known for its relaxed atmosphere and good seafood restaurants.
• Sunset fishing trip — Join local fishermen for an evening boat excursion, learning traditional fishing techniques while experiencing the archipelago's golden hour views.

Food to try

• Ikan Bakar (grilled fish) — Fresh catch of the day grilled over charcoal with sambal and lime, a staple preparation across the islands that highlights the local seafood.
• Gabus (snakehead fish stew) — A traditional Indonesian freshwater fish dish slow-cooked in coconut milk and spices, commonly served at island warungs and homestays.
• Udang goreng (fried prawns) — Large local prawns quickly fried until crispy and served with sambal and steamed rice, showcasing the islands' abundant crustaceans.
• Cumi-cumi goreng (fried squid) — Tender squid dusted with seasoned flour and deep-fried, often served as a snack at beachside stalls or as part of a seafood platter.
• Nasi kuning (turmeric rice) — Aromatic yellow rice cooked with coconut milk and turmeric, traditionally served as a side dish or base for various island meal combinations.

Local customs & good to know

• Hire licensed guides and operators — Always use registered tour operators and boat captains with proper permits to ensure safety, environmental compliance, and fair wages for local workers.
• Respect local fishing communities — Many islands are inhabited by multigenerational fishing families; be respectful when taking photos, ask permission before entering homes, and support local businesses rather than external resorts.
• Practice marine conservation — Avoid touching coral, use reef-safe sunscreen, don't litter, and follow guidelines about protected areas to help preserve the fragile ecosystems that make the islands special.
• Learn basic Indonesian greetings — Simple phrases like 'Selamat pagi' (good morning) and 'Terima kasih' (thank you) are appreciated by island residents and enhance cultural interactions.