Jakarta, as the capital city of Indonesia, is home to a lot of interesting tourist destinations. You can find anything here, such as exploring these memorable historical places in Jakarta and even tasting these best cheap street food Jakarta in Sabang Street.
Do you know that Jakarta also has some marine destinations? Marine destinations are defined as places where you can enjoy the marine environment (the area in which the waters are saline and tide-affected).
There are some recommended marine destinations you can visit in Jakarta, especially if you love things related to marine or water. All these marine destinations are located in Thousand Islands (Kepulauan Seribu). Let’s check them out!
- Tidung Island
The first island among these best islands in Thousand Islands Jakarta is Tidung Island or Pulau Tidung. It takes around 90 minutes to reach this island from Muara Angke Port (Pelabuhan Muara Angke).
This island is famous among tourists as it has some Instagramable spots. There is even a bridge called Love Bridge(Jembatan Cinta) which connects the islands of Small and Big Tidung (Tidung Besar dan Tidung Kecil).
What can you do in this island? You can enjoy the view of the sunset from the bridge. The view of the sunset is mesmerizing and beautiful as it has the sea as the background. Many tourists also enjoy snorkelling here since the underwater life is amazing.
- Harapan Island
You can reach this island from two locations: Muara Angke Port (Pelabuhan Muara Angke) or Marina Ancol.
The next popular island to explore in Thousand Island is Harapan Island or Pulau Harapan. This island is located further than Tidung Island. There are many reviews from tourists which stated that this island is the best and the most exotic spot for snorkelling.
- Pari Island
This island is considered as a new burgeoning destination in Thousand Islands. Although it is located close to Marina Ancol, it has a complete island atmosphere. You can enjoy hopping into the traditional fishing boat to roam around this island.
There’s a spot called Virgin Sands which will serve you its unspoiled charm. If you plan to visit this island, don’t miss visiting the Sun Hill or Bukit Matahari. This spot is awesome for watching the skies where the sun rises and sets into the pristine waters.
- Pramuka Island
Pramuka Island is the administrative center of Thousand Islands as it is located in the midst of this cluster of islands. Besides, it is also the most inhabited island among others. You can find complete facilities here, such as mosque, banking, communication facilities which you cannot find on the other islands.
Furthermore, Pramuka Island is also a nature reserve for greenback turtles. These turtles, called Eretmochelys imbricate, are conserved and protected in this natural habitat.
Tourists are even invited to help the first steps taken by the baby turtles which have reached he right stage from the shore. Not only that, you can also enjoy watching colorful fish and reefs underwater.
- Bidadari Island
This island is the nearest to Marina Ancol, even nearer than Pari Island. It only takes around 30 minutes to reach this island by boat. You can enjoy the photogenic site of Fort Martello, which was built in the 17th century.
On the island, you can view the marvellous collection of trees, such as black wood trees, peace trees, Sentigi trees, fruit trees and mangrove trees. Uniquely, these trees are growing naturally on its fertile soil. Regarding to accommodation, you can rent some floating cottages to spend your holiday here.
Don’t miss to taste the local seafood dishes that are delicious and fresh too!
Before deciding to explore Thousand Islands, make sure you all know these travel tips to Thousand Islands Jakarta.
- Onrust Island
Onrust Island is basically a small island which hides a historic Dutch fortress and other remains from the Dutch colonial era. Now, it functions as the museum of the island.
The name “Onrust” is originated from the Dutch word, which means “Unrest”. This island has been changing its functions several times, from being an important shipyard of VOC, becoming a weather station, becoming a Hajj quarantine, and even a prison for notorious animals.
- Tiger Island
Tiger Island or Pulau Macan is one of the most popular islands among honeymooners. This island is well-known for having romantic huts. The huts are built in natural style so that you can feel that you’re in a secluded island. You can even watch the sunset views from the huts.
It takes around 1.5 hours to reach this island. You can enjoy some water sports here, such as snorkeling, canoeing, diving and windsurfing.
Jakarta has a lot of amazing islands to explore. However, you can also explore some amazing islands in other regions too, such as mentioned in Indonesian paradise islands you should totally visit. They worth visiting at least once in your life!