KEPULAUAN SERIBU/THOUSAND ISLANDS: A Hidden Gem Of The East

Have you ever seen a cluster of island that is so secluded and pristine? With the sand that is so white and the sea as clear as sparkling jewel? But, what if we tell you it is located just right above the metropolitan city of Jakarta? Believe it?

Yes, you better believe it! As what we always whisper to everyone, Jakarta has always something for all getaways. Out of the hustle bustles, Kepulauan Seribu (literally in English, Thousand Islands) is definitely a hidden gem waiting for you to discover. A perfect escapade for the Cosmo that is so close from the heart of the bustling metropolitan. Again, we proudly present to you: Kepulauan Seribu. A romantic retreat awaits you on these islands comprised of about 340 small islands offer a variety of enjoyment.

As the only Jakarta’s nautical tourism paradise, Thousand Islands’ natural charm offers five-star facilities for the sunbathers and water sport fanatics. Luxury resorts & hotels, selections of activity, superb seafood delicacies to the warm smile of the locals are welcoming you to join the peaceful festivity on these secluded islands. Scattered along the bay of Jakarta, Thousand Islands can be reached from 20 minutes to 2 hours depending on which island do you choose to sail through. Several tour operators are definitely able to recommend you for the trip arrangement. Prices will include the boat transfer from Ancol marina to one of the islands which has a hotel on it. Food and accommodation are also included in the package. If you wish to dive or snorkelling, that would also be included.

For your information, the boat transfers run on fixed schedule, few morning departures from the marina. The return trip will be either in the afternoon (around 2PM) or in the late afternoon (i.e. 5PM). If you wish to have several options of lodging, Thousand Islands offers plenty of accommodation ranges from villa-on-stilts, regular wooden bungalows, to modern concrete cottage. The bay is laid out in clear blue water with thousands of species of tropical fish that live among the colorful coral reefs. Below are several islands of our picturesque Thousand Islands we would love to recommend. The pace is up to you!

Kotok Island

Kotok Island is an example of a tropical atoll island with pristine vegetation. The turquiose sea and colorful reef made this place one of the destinations for divers to look out. This island is also known as an observation area of Elang Bondol (Scaly-breasted Falcon). A bird that is one of the icons of the city.

Sepa Island

Located only 70 kilometers from Jakarta and about half an hour away by speedboat from the Marina Ancol, Sepa island is sheltered with shady palm trees and surrounded by white sand beach. A seamless way for you to relax and unwind in a tropical warmth. Bungalows and lounges are presented each with its own front porch just for you to enjoy the beauty of sunrise and sunset view.

Ayer Island

Ayer is one of the major islands of Thousand Islands covering an area of 60 hectares, bounded by white sand beaches, complete choices of cottages and bungalows with enthralling array of water sports and other facilities, such as pool, karaoke, meeting rooms, restaurant, bar, coffee shop, children’s playgroung and clinics.

Bidadari Island

Bidadari Island is among one of the nearby island of Jakarta bay being well developed with great accommodations. Easily reached just 20 minutes by speedboat from the marina, the island presents a beautiful view from the cottages which are built among the trees and float on the sea  with the fisherman’s houses.

Untung Jawa Island

An island that is very enchanting. It offers something more secluded atmosphere and demands adventurous spirit, where we can witness an interesting fishing village with facilities such as campsites, cottages, restaurants and souvenir shops. A definite preference for those who are wanting some privacies or adventures.

Onrust Island

Onrust is the island covering the area of 1512 hectares and one of the best shipyards in Southeast Asia at the time. Being discovered first by Captain James T. Cook with the ship endeavor in 1770, this island can be reached through the Marina Ancol, Muara Angke and Kamal Muara. Here you can also find the ruins of a 17th century fortress during the Dutch colonial times.

Bira Besar Island

Are you one of those golf freaks who always travel around the globe seeking for the new challenge? Experience the spectacular sensation of Golfing on this secluded island and pamper yourself in opulent cottages serving you with the best fishing site and canoes.

Other Islands

For the ones who travel with family, you may be interested to visit nature conservation reserves like the bird-sanctuary with unique tropical forest and surrounded by lush coral reefs and mangroveson Rambut Island, and the turtle hatchery on the capital city of the island district, Pramuka Island. Other islands no less exotic in the Thousand Islands are Tidung, Kelor, Bokor, Pelangi, Matahari, Panggang, Melinjo, Kelapa, Harapan and Kelapa Dua Island.

So what are you waiting for? This can be one of your top picks on your consideration to spend holidays alone or with your loved ones. It could be the perfect way to relax over the weekend or to get out of the boring routines in the city. We invite and welcome you to Thousand Islands (Kepulauan Seribu)!