10 alternatives to Bali: authentic destinations in Indonesia

Discover 10 alternatives to Bali in Indonesia.

The Bali overtourism crisis has reached a critical level. The same tourist hotspots that attract millions of travelers every year – Ubud, Seminyak, Canggu – now struggle with environmental pressure, cultural loss, and pollution.

That’s why more and more people are looking for alternatives to Bali: islands, regions, and villages that offer the same beauty and spirituality, but without the negative effects of mass tourism.

Selection criteria: authenticity, sustainability, and culture

The destinations we’ve selected are:

Less touristy Indonesian islands
Areas suitable for slow travel
Deeply rooted in local traditions
With active community or ecotourism initiatives

The 10 best alternatives to Bali in 2025

1. Lombok – the wild island with pristine beaches
East of Bali, Lombok offers breathtaking landscapes, excellent surfing, trekking on Mount Rinjani, and authentic Sasak villages. It’s one of the most accessible alternatives to Bali, yet still less exploited by tourists.

2. Sumba – megalithic culture and surfing far from the crowds
Sumba is perfect for slow travel. Deserted beaches, ancient rituals, and initiatives like the Sumba Hospitality Foundation make sustainable tourism a reality here.

3. Flores – volcanic nature, traditional villages, and Komodo
Visiting Flores brings you closer to less-known destinations in Indonesia. Don’t miss: Kelimutu, Ngada villages, and Komodo National Park.

4. Sulawesi – Toraja culture and legendary diving
One of Indonesia’s most fascinating regions for culture and biodiversity. Toraja funerals are a powerful experience, and diving in Bunaken is among the best in the world.

5. Nusa Penida – close to Bali but less touristy
Part of the Nusa Islands, it’s a strategic choice for those who want to stay near Bali. Less developed, wilder, perfect for snorkeling and photography.

6. Togean Islands – paradise for slow travel
Remote in the Tomini Gulf, these islands offer a completely relaxed pace of life, extraordinary snorkeling, and welcoming communities. Ideal for those seeking slow travel experiences.

7. Belitung – white beaches and community-based tourism
Still little known, this island off Sumatra boasts Caribbean-like landscapes and tourism projects run by local cooperatives. Perfect as an alternative to Bali for couples and families.

8. Karimunjawa – a remote and environmentally friendly archipelago
North of Java, this island group is ideal for independent travelers. It has strict environmental rules and is well-suited for responsible tourism.

9. Raja Ampat – unparalleled marine biodiversity
Not for everyone, but for ocean lovers and nature enthusiasts, Raja Ampat is paradise. Sustainability here is a requirement, not optional.

10. Bukit Lawang (Sumatra) – tropical rainforest and orangutans
Among Indonesia’s lesser-known destinations, this site is one of the few places in the world to observe orangutans in the wild, thanks to local conservation projects.

How to plan slow and responsible trips

Avoid viral hotspots: look for real experiences, not social media content
Stay with local families or sustainable homestays
Choose tours led by local guides
Respect the pace and rules of the communities that host you

👉 Want to learn how? Read: Sustainable tourism Bali: is it really possible or just marketing?

Continue reading our series on Bali & Overtourism

Go to the full series on Bali's tourism issues

Planning a trip to Bali with kids?

From mystical temples to the rice fields of Sidemen, from local markets to beaches: Bali is a family-sized adventure waiting for you. I’ve gathered practical tips, authentic stops, and low-budget ideas to help you discover the island with curious eyes and light backpacks.

And if you want to go even deeper, to discover the Real Bali — the one you won’t find in brochures — I recommend Viaggiaibali.com: a complete guide for those who dream of truly living it, with a sustainable and respectful eye towards local communities.

Read all articles about Bali with kids →
Go to Viaggiaibali.com →