Thousand Islands (Kepulauan Seribu)

Kepulauan Seribu

More than 100 coral islands scattered beyond Jakarta Bay, from fishing-village islands to private resort islands. It is the capital's backyard for escaping the traffic and snorkeling among the coral.

The Thousand Islands (Kepulauan Seribu) are named for their count, but they actually consist of about 110 coral islands stretching 45 km north from Jakarta Bay. They form the only administrative district of Jakarta and are also a national marine park. The islands fall into several groups. The nearshore islands of Onrust (ruins of a Dutch-era shipyard and quarantine station) and Kelor (a round Dutch fort tower) are suited to half-day trips. In the middle group, Pramuka (the district seat, with a sea turtle conservation station), Tidung (famous for the 'Bridge of Love' linking Big and Small Tidung), and Pari (with pristine beaches) are the islands with the most guesthouses and local visitors, where you can snorkel among hard corals and clownfish. The northern islands of Sepa, Pulau Macan, and Putri are resort islands, and their water quality is the best. Getting there: speedboats from Marina Ancol to Pramuka or Tidung take about 1 to 1.5 hours. One-way fares are about Rp 150,000-200,000, and boats usually depart at 7-8 a.m. and return at 1-2 p.m. Public wooden boats from Muara Angke or Kali Adem pier take about 2.5 to 3 hours, and fares are only Rp 50,000-70,000, though they are far less comfortable. Resort islands arrange boat transfers through the resort. Tips: for a day trip, choose the route of Onrust, Kelor, and Tidung. To snorkel, stay one night on Pramuka or Pari. If your budget allows, book two nights on one of the northern resort islands directly. Notes: the nearshore islands have murkier water because of the Jakarta river estuary, and the water gets clearer farther north. In the dry season, boat tickets for weekends are scarce, so book ahead. Island infrastructure is basic, so bring cash and sunscreen.

Thousand Islands (Kepulauan Seribu)

Opening hours

Nearby sights

Places to eat nearby