As beautiful as Bali is, unfortunately, in recent years has become highly overtouristed. Bali is one of the closest locations a traveller can get to “paradise”, and therefore, locations similar to this naturally luscious land are in high demand to visit. The reason for this demand is not only for the long tourist queue but also for the beaches littered with trash and waiting for photos at popular Instagram spots. So, where is similar to Bali in both beauty and diversity?
There is no shortage of more incredible beaches in Southeast Asia. Visiting these places can help to create a healthier and more stable tourism industry on the island of Bali, as well as bring tourism-fueled prosperity to other places. Choosing an alternative destination can even provide you with a more unique and authentic travel experience than you would find at an overtouristed location.
Lombok, Indonesia
Bali’s neighbour Lombok is definitely an alternative to consider! Home to beautiful sandy beaches, waterfalls, rice fields and even a volcano, this location does not fall short of things to stare at in awe. Experiencing less rain than Bali every year could act as an appealing factor within itself.
The beaches of southern Lombok are some of the best in Indonesia. The waves here are unlike no other and are brilliant for all of those who enjoy catching some waves. Towns here are serene and peaceful, including the most visited town, Kuta. Kuta specifically is a great town to visit given its proximity to the airport and the stunning scenery including the volcano.
Thousand Islands, Jakarta, Indonesia
Another location close by is Thousand Islands in Java. This is a cluster of 110 picturesque islands in the Bay of Jakarta. All of which boast gorgeous soft white sandy beaches with clear waters washing amongst the sand. Tourists can enjoy snorkelling and scuba diving in the waters around each island, viewing the stunning species of fish that swim around you.
Eleven of these beautiful islands are open for tourists to visit and stay on. This means that the population of both locals and tourists is spread out, making for a very tranquil getaway and the avoidance of the crowds that you wish to avoid.
Morotai, North Maluku, Indonesia
Morotai is a hidden gem in Indonesia. With an insane amount of underwater beauty including; coral reefs, colorful fishes, to abandoned shipwrecks spread over more than 28 spots. This is the perfect place to go deep diving and explore what lies beneath. There are numerous diving services offered and operated by locals here to enjoy, so make the most of them!
Above land is just as interesting and beautiful. Morotai, located in the north side of Halmahera, North Maluku Province and is the northernmost island in Indonesia and was the hive of military activities during World War II. With tens of sorties roaring daily from air crafts taking off and landing at airstrips to navy ships anchoring daily carrying supplies and reinforcement.
Morotai Island actually holds so many charms that it can steal anyone’s heart. With its vast culture and history, this is definitely an alternative to Bali that everyone should consider.
Koh Yao Noi Thailand
Koh Yao Noi is the place to be if you love relaxing in local communities with stunning ocean backdrops and more than a handful of incredible restaurants and bars to while away the hours. With numerous similarities to Bali, you won't feel as though you're missing out on the experience! There's even some Bali luxury on offer an incredible five star resort.
The small island is primarily a small local crowd with few tourists visiting each year. Koh Yao Noi boats beaches and waterfalls unlike no other. If you enjoy climbing, then make the most of the rugged terrain and enjoy some climbing with the most magical views of the clear waters and green topiary that surrounds you.
Koh Chang, Thailand
Affordable, friendly locals and an abundance of attractions. Koh Chang in Thailand is a fantastic island getaway and alternative to Bali. With a number of beautiful beaches with golden sand and turquoise waters, there are so many beach activities tourists can partake in. Take a splash in the warm waters or dive down deep and explore the coral reefs that lie below.
There is no shortage of activities on land either, as Koh Chang is one of Thailand’s largest islands, second only to Phuket. Explore one of Thailands most naturally beautiful islands and tour the land with other friendly solo travellers or families!
Cook Islands
The Cook Islands are one of the most authentic and rustic destinations in the South Pacific. A chain of 15 islands in the South Pacific that screams “relaxation,”. This place is close to paradise with its untouched natural beauty. Stunning white sand beaches lush, green mountains and tiny, unspoilt islands waiting to be explored and even better yet, they don’t experience half the tourists that Bali does each year!
The country is known worldwide for fantastic snorkelling & scuba diving in its crystal clear waters, so is absolutely perfect for getting hands-on and enjoying the activities offered here. Although you will find yourself in what seems to be the middle of no where, you will not find yourself falling bored here. The beauty is enough to keep your eyes ticking for the duration of your stay!
Starting from Skratch? Here are some tips to help you get started:
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