Beyond Bali: My Go-To Places for Indonesian Adventures
Seven Epic Destinations to Explore After Your Bali Retreat
With our Bali Freediving Retreat 2025 fast approaching, I'm getting more questions than ever about extending adventures beyond our beautiful base in Amed. After countless visits to Bali, I've collected a treasure trove of recommendations for those who catch the Indonesia bug (trust me, it happens to everyone).
Whether you're joining us for the 2025 retreat or have already experienced the magic of freediving in Bali's amazing waters, there's an entire Indonesian archipelago waiting to be explored. Here are my personal go-to recommendations for extending your adventure beyond Bali's shores.
Nusa Penida: Dancing with Giants
Yes, I admit it – Kelingking Beach is a full-blown tourist attraction. But there's something about that T-Rex shaped cliff that takes your breath away no matter how many photos you've seen. The beach below, if you're brave enough to make the trek down, is absolutely powerful with its wild waves and untouched beauty - not many make it down there lol.
But the real magic of Nusa Penida happens underwater. During our retreats, we take visitors diving with manta rays, and it never gets old. These gentle giants glide through the water with such grace – it's like a ballet performance just for you. Pro tip: early morning dives offer the best visibility and most active marine life plus less tourists.
Gili Islands: Three Islands, Three Vibes
The Gili Islands are a must-visit trio, each with its own personality. Gili Trawangan – or Gili T as locals call it – is the party animal of the three. Yes, it's crazy, with beachfront parties and a social scene that goes late into the night, but don't dismiss it completely. Beyond the bars, you'll find stunning white sand beaches and some fantastic sunset spots.
Just a short boat ride away, Gili Meno and Gili Air offer a more laid-back experience. Gili Meno is where couples disappear to connect with nature and each other, while Gili Air strikes that perfect balance between peaceful and lively. My favorite activity? Snorkeling to see the famous underwater statues – a mysterious but beautiful art installation that's become an artificial reef.
Surf Dreams: Mentawai & Lombok
While I haven't made it to the legendary Mentawai Islands yet (it's big on my list!), every surfer I know speaks of it with reverence. Remote, challenging, and surrounded by some of the most pristine island scenery in Indonesia – it's the ultimate surf destination.
For those seeking world-class waves without the extreme remoteness, Lombok is your answer. Just a short hop from Bali, it offers everything from beginner-friendly breaks to advanced barrels. Desert Point is legendary among surfers worldwide, and the island's rugged beauty rivals anything you'll find in more touristy spots.
Raja Ampat: The Crown Jewel of Indonesia
Let me be honest – Raja Ampat isn't cheap. The remoteness means everything costs more, from flights to accommodation. But this is one place where the price is absolutely worth it. We're talking about the most biodiverse marine environment on the planet, with limestone islands rising from crystal-clear waters like something from a dream.
This is bucket-list territory for divers and nature lovers. The underwater world here is so vibrant and untouched that it feels like diving in an aquarium. Above water, the iconic karst formations create some of the most photographed landscapes in Indonesia. If you can swing it financially, make Raja Ampat happen.
Sulawesi: Indonesia's Wild Heart
Sulawesi remains one of my favorite off-the-beaten-path destinations, which is still high on my list. After some research I discovered that, the Togean Islands offer some of the best unspoiled diving, while Tana Toraja presents a fascinating cultural experience with its unique funeral traditions and traditional houses shaped like boats.
The island's unusual shape – like a sprawling starfish – means diverse ecosystems and cultures exist within relatively short distances. From the world-class diving of Bunaken Marine Park to the prehistoric rock art of Leang-Leang caves, Sulawesi rewards those willing to explore beyond the usual tourist trails.
Komodo National Park: Here Be Dragons
Komodo is more than just its famous dragons (though let's be honest, seeing these prehistoric creatures in the wild is unforgettable). The national park encompasses numerous islands with pink sand beaches, world-class diving sites like Batu Bolong, and the iconic Padar Island viewpoint that's become Instagram famous for good reason.
Watching the sunset from a boat in Komodo National Park, surrounded by islands and with dozens of flying foxes taking to the sky – I’m sure it's one of those moments that reminds you why you travel. The diving here ranges from relaxed drift dives to challenging current sites packed with massive schools of fish and regular manta ray sightings.
Final Thoughts…My advice? Don't try to see everything at once. Indonesia has over 17’000 islands and each destination offers something unique. Pick one or two destinations beyond Bali and give yourself time to really experience them. The beauty of Indonesia isn't just in its landscapes – it's in the connections you make with people and places when you slow down enough to let them touch your heart. <3
Join Us in Bali First
If you haven't experienced Bali yet, why not start your Indonesian adventure with us?
Our Bali Freediving Retreat 2025 offers the perfect introduction to Indonesia's underwater wonders. Based in the tranquil fishing village of Amed, we'll explore pristine reefs, learn breath-hold techniques, and yes – dive with those majestic manta rays at Nusa Penida.
The retreat combines professional freediving instruction with cultural immersion, daily guided meditation, and plenty of time to soak in Bali's magical atmosphere. It's the ideal foundation before exploring the wider Indonesian archipelago. Plus, you'll leave with new friends and fellow travelers who might just become your adventure buddies for exploring these other epic destinations.
Spots are limited for our 2025 retreat. Visit deepserenity.ch or my Webpage for dates and booking information.
Ready to explore beyond Bali? Start planning – adventure awaits you!
With Love from Bali,
Sandra