Are you looking for a tropical getaway that is close to the bustling city of Jakarta? Do you want to experience the beauty and diversity of Indonesia’s islands, culture, and wildlife? If yes, then you should visit Kepulauan Seribu, or the Thousand Islands, a regency of Jakarta that consists of over 100 islands in the Java Sea.
In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about Kepulauan Seribu, from how to get there, what to do, where to stay, when to visit, and more. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group of friends, you will find something that suits your interests and budget in Kepulauan Seribu. Read on to discover why Kepulauan Seribu is one of the best destinations in Indonesia for a memorable and relaxing vacation.
How to Get to Kepulauan Seribu
The easiest and most common way to reach Kepulauan Seribu from Jakarta is by boat. There are several options for boat transportation, depending on your destination, budget, and preference. Here are some of the main ones:
Speedboat:
This is the fastest and most comfortable option, but also the most expensive. Speedboats can take you to any of the islands in Kepulauan Seribu in about 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the distance. You can book a speedboat online or at the Marina Ancol Pier in Jakarta, where most of the speedboats depart from. The prices range from 200,000 to 500,000 IDR (14 to 35 USD) per person, one way.
Ferry:
This is the cheapest and most popular option, but also the slowest and least comfortable. Ferries can take you to some of the main islands in Kepulauan Seribu, such as Pulau Bidadari, Pulau Pramuka, Pulau Harapan, and Pulau Tidung, in about 2 to 3 hours, depending on the destination. You can buy a ferry ticket at the Muara Angke Port in Jakarta, where most of the ferries depart from. The prices range from 40,000 to 60,000 IDR (3 to 4 USD) per person, one way.
Plane:
This is the most exclusive and adventurous option, but also the most limited and unpredictable. Planes can take you to some of the remote islands in Kepulauan Seribu, such as Pulau Macan, Pulau Pari, and Pulau Kotok, in about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the destination. You can book a plane online or at the Halim Perdanakusuma Airport in Jakarta, where most of the planes depart from. The prices range from 1,000,000 to 2,000,000 IDR (70 to 140 USD) per person, one way.
What to Do in Kepulauan Seribu
There are plenty of things to do in Kepulauan Seribu, depending on your interests, preferences, and budget. Here are some of the most popular and recommended activities in Kepulauan Seribu, categorized by type:
Water Sports
Kepulauan Seribu is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, as it offers a variety of activities that can suit different levels of skills and experiences. Some of the water sports that you can enjoy in Kepulauan Seribu are:
Snorkeling: This is one of the best ways to explore the underwater world of Kepulauan Seribu, as it allows you to see the colorful coral reefs, fish, and other marine life that inhabit the clear and warm waters. You can rent snorkeling equipment from the local operators or bring your own. Some of the best islands for snorkeling are Pulau Pramuka, Pulau Semak Daun, Pulau Perak, and Pulau Putri.
Diving: This is another great way to discover the beauty and diversity of Kepulauan Seribu’s marine life, as it allows you to go deeper and see more of the coral reefs, fish, and other creatures that live in the waters. You can join a diving tour or course from the local operators or bring your own diving equipment. Some of the best islands for diving are Pulau Kotok, Pulau Sepa, Pulau Pantara, and Pulau Bira.
Kayaking: This is a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the scenery and the atmosphere of Kepulauan Seribu, as it allows you to paddle around the islands and see the beaches, mangroves, and wildlife from a different perspective. You can rent a kayak from the local operators or bring your own. Some of the best islands for kayaking are Pulau Ayer, Pulau Macan, Pulau Pari, and Pulau Tidung.
Island Hopping
Kepulauan Seribu is a perfect destination for island hopping, as it offers a variety of islands that can suit different tastes and preferences. You can visit several islands in one day or stay overnight on one or more of them. Some of the islands that you can hop to in Kepulauan Seribu are:
Pulau Bidadari: This is one of the closest and most accessible islands from Jakarta, as it takes only about 30 minutes by speedboat or 2 hours by ferry. It is also one of the most developed and crowded islands, as it has several resorts, restaurants, and facilities. It is a good choice for those who want a quick and easy getaway from the city, or for those who want to enjoy some historical and cultural attractions, such as the Martello Fort and the Cipir Island Museum.
Pulau Pramuka: This is one of the main and most popular islands in Kepulauan Seribu, as it is the administrative center and the hub of the regency. It takes about an hour by speedboat or 3 hours by ferry from Jakarta. It is also one of the most diverse and lively islands, as it has a variety of accommodation, dining, and entertainment options. It is a good choice for those who want to experience the local culture and lifestyle, or for those who want to see some wildlife, such as the hawksbill turtles and the brahminy kites.
Pulau Harapan: This is one of the furthest and most remote islands from Jakarta, as it takes about 3 hours by speedboat or 5 hours by ferry. It is also one of the most pristine and tranquil islands, as it has fewer tourists and more natural beauty. It is a good choice for those who want to escape the crowds and the noise, or for those who want to enjoy some adventure, such as hiking, camping, or fishing.
Pulau Tidung: This is one of the largest and most visited islands in Kepulauan Seribu, as it takes about 2 hours by speedboat or 4 hours by ferry from Jakarta. It is also one of the most fun and exciting islands, as it has a lot of activities and attractions. It is a good choice for those who want to have a fun and memorable vacation, or for those who want to try some unique and thrilling experiences, such as crossing the Jembatan Cinta (Bridge of Love) or riding the banana boat.
Cultural Tours
Kepulauan Seribu is not only a place for nature and adventure lovers, but also for culture and history buffs, as it has a rich and diverse cultural heritage that dates back to centuries. You can learn more about the history, culture, and traditions of Kepulauan Seribu by joining a cultural tour or visiting some of the cultural attractions. Some of the cultural tours and attractions that you can enjoy in Kepulauan Seribu are:
Onrust Island Tour: This is a tour that takes you to Onrust Island, one of the oldest and most historical islands in Kepulauan Seribu. It was once a Dutch colonial fort, a quarantine station, a prison, and a cemetery. You can see the ruins of the fort, the museum, the graveyard, and the lighthouse, and learn more about the history and stories of the island. You can book this tour online or at the Marina Ancol Pier, where the boat departs from. The tour lasts for about 4 hours and costs 250,000 IDR (18 USD) per person, including the entrance fee, the guide, and the snacks.
Betawi Culture Tour: This is a tour that takes you to Pulau Kelapa, one of the most authentic and traditional islands in Kepulauan Seribu. It is home to the Betawi people, the original inhabitants of Jakarta, who have preserved their culture and customs for generations. You can see their distinctive houses, costumes, dances, music, and crafts, and taste their delicious cuisine, such as kerak telor, soto betawi, and bir pletok. You can book this tour online or at the Muara Angke Port, where the boat departs from. The tour lasts for about 6 hours and costs 300,000 IDR (21 USD) per person, including the entrance fee, the guide, and the lunch.
Sunset Cruise Tour: This is a tour that takes you to Pulau Bira, one of the most romantic and scenic islands in Kepulauan Seribu. It is famous for its white sandy beach, turquoise water, and stunning sunset. You can enjoy a relaxing and romantic cruise around the island, while watching the sun set over the horizon. You can also enjoy some snacks, drinks, and music on board. You can book this tour online or at the Marina Ancol Pier, where the boat departs from. The tour lasts for about 3 hours and costs 350,000 IDR (25 USD) per person, including the boat, the snacks, and the drinks.
Where to Stay in Kepulauan Seribu
There are many options for accommodation in Kepulauan Seribu, ranging from budget to luxury, and from traditional to modern. You can choose to stay on one of the islands, or on a floating resort, or on a liveaboard boat. Here are some of the best places to stay in Kepulauan Seribu, categorized by type:
Budget
If you are looking for a cheap and cheerful place to stay in Kepulauan Seribu, you can opt for one of the budget options, such as:
Homestay: This is the most common and affordable option, as it allows you to stay with a local family and experience their hospitality and culture. You can find homestays on most of the islands, especially on the ones that have a large population, such as Pulau Pramuka, Pulau Harapan, and Pulau Tidung. The prices range from 100,000 to 200,000 IDR (7 to 14 USD) per night, including breakfast and dinner.
Guesthouse: This is another popular and inexpensive option, as it offers more privacy and comfort than a homestay. You can find guesthouses on some of the islands, especially on the ones that have more facilities and services, such as Pulau Bidadari, Pulau Pari, and Pulau Kotok. The prices range from 200,000 to 400,000 IDR (14 to 28 USD) per night, including breakfast.
Camping: This is the most adventurous and fun option, as it allows you to sleep under the stars and enjoy the nature and the atmosphere of the islands. You can find camping sites on some of the islands, especially on the ones that have more space and scenery, such as Pulau Semak Daun, Pulau Perak, and Pulau Macan. The prices range from 50,000 to 100,000 IDR (4 to 7 USD) per night, including the tent and the sleeping bag.
Mid-Range
If you are looking for a more comfortable and convenient place to stay in Kepulauan Seribu, you can opt for one of the mid-range options, such as:
Resort: This is the most common and preferred option, as it offers more amenities and services than a guesthouse. You can find resorts on most of the islands, especially on the ones that have more development and tourism, such as Pulau Ayer, Pulau Putri, and Pulau Pantara. The prices range from 400,000 to 800,000 IDR (28 to 56 USD) per night, including breakfast and some activities.
Floating Resort: This is a unique and innovative option, as it offers a different and exciting experience than a resort. You can find floating resorts on some of the islands, especially on the ones that have more water and marine life, such as Pulau Sepa, Pulau Bira, and Pulau Pelangi. The prices range from 800,000 to 1,200,000 IDR (56 to 84 USD) per night, including breakfast and some activities.
Liveaboard Boat: This is a special and exclusive option, as it offers a flexible and adventurous experience than a floating resort. You can find liveaboard boats on some of the islands, especially on the ones that have more diversity and attractions, such as Pulau Macan, Pulau Pari, and Pulau Kotok. The prices range from 1,200,000 to 2,000,000 IDR (84 to 140 USD) per night, including all meals and some activities.
Luxury
If you are looking for a lavish and indulgent place to stay in Kepulauan Seribu, you can opt for one of the luxury options, such as:
Villa: This is the most luxurious and extravagant option, as it offers the ultimate privacy and comfort. You can find villas on some of the islands, especially on the ones that have more exclusivity and elegance, such as Pulau Bidadari, Pulau Putri, and Pulau Pantara. The prices range from 2,000,000 to 4,000,000 IDR (140 to 280 USD) per night, including breakfast and some activities.
Private Island: This is the most dreamy and romantic option, as it offers the ultimate seclusion and intimacy. You can find private islands on some of the islands, especially on the ones that have more charm and beauty, such as Pulau Macan, Pulau Pari, and Pulau Kotok. The prices range from 4,000,000 to 8,000,000 IDR (280 to 560 USD) per night, including all meals and some activities.
Yacht: This is the most glamorous and adventurous option, as it offers the ultimate freedom and flexibility. You can find yachts on some of the islands, especially on the ones that have more variety and excitement, such as Pulau Sepa, Pulau Bira, and Pulau Pelangi. The prices range from 8,000,000 to 16,000,000 IDR (560 to 1,120 USD) per night, including all meals and some activities.
When to Visit Kepulauan Seribu
The best time to visit Kepulauan Seribu depends on your preferences and expectations, as each season has its own pros and cons. Here are some factors to consider when planning your trip to Kepulauan Seribu, based on the weather, the seasons, and the events:
Weather
The weather in Kepulauan Seribu is generally warm and humid throughout the year, with an average temperature of 27°C (81°F) and an average humidity of 80%. However, there are some variations depending on the month and the island. Here are some of the weather patterns in Kepulauan Seribu, based on the month:
January to March: This is the wettest and cloudiest period in Kepulauan Seribu, as it is the peak of the rainy season. The average rainfall is 300 mm (12 inches) and the average cloud cover is 70%. The average temperature is 26°C (79°F) and the average humidity is 85%. The sea conditions are rough and the visibility is poor, making it unsuitable for water sports and island hopping. The advantages of visiting Kepulauan Seribu during this period are the lower prices, the fewer tourists, and the greener scenery.
April to June: This is the driest and sunniest period in Kepulauan Seribu, as it is the transition from the rainy season to the dry season. The average rainfall is 150 mm (6 inches) and the average cloud cover is 50%. The average temperature is 28°C (82°F) and the average humidity is 75%. The sea conditions are calm and the visibility is good, making it ideal for water sports and island hopping. The advantages of visiting Kepulauan Seribu during this period are the higher chances of sunshine, the moderate crowds, and the colorful flowers.
July to September: This is the hottest and busiest period in Kepulauan Seribu, as it is the peak of the dry season. The average rainfall is 50 mm (2 inches) and the average cloud cover is 30%. The average temperature is 30°C (86°F) and the average humidity is 70%. The sea conditions are calm and the visibility is excellent, making it ideal for water sports and island hopping. The disadvantages of visiting Kepulauan Seribu during this period are the higher prices, the more tourists, and the drier scenery.
October to December: This is the coolest and windiest period in Kepulauan Seribu, as it is the transition from the dry season to the rainy season. The average rainfall is 200 mm (8 inches) and the average cloud cover is 60%. The average temperature is 27°C (81°F) and the average humidity is 80%. The sea conditions are choppy and the visibility is fair, making it suitable for water sports and island hopping. The advantages of visiting Kepulauan Seribu during this period are the lower prices, the fewer tourists, and the fresher scenery.
Seasons
The seasons in Kepulauan Seribu are mainly influenced by the monsoon winds, which blow from different directions and bring different weather patterns. Here are some of the seasons in Kepulauan Seribu, based on the wind:
Northwest Monsoon: This is the season that occurs from November to March, when the northwest monsoon winds blow from the Indian Ocean and bring moist and rainy weather to Kepulauan Seribu. This is the wettest and cloudiest season, with frequent rain showers and thunderstorms. This is also the coolest and windiest season, with lower temperatures and stronger breezes. This is the low season for tourism, with fewer visitors and lower prices.
Southeast Monsoon: This is the season that occurs from May to September, when the southeast monsoon winds blow from the Australian continent and bring dry and sunny weather to Kepulauan Seribu. This is the driest and sunniest season, with rare rain showers and clear skies. This is also the hottest and calmest season, with higher temperatures and weaker breezes. This is the high season for tourism, with more visitors and higher prices.
Inter-Monsoon: This is the season that occurs from April to May and from October to November, when the monsoon winds change direction and bring variable and unpredictable weather to Kepulauan Seribu. This is the most mixed and transitional season, with occasional rain showers and sunny spells. This is also the most moderate and pleasant season, with average temperatures and breezes. This is the shoulder season for tourism, with moderate visitors and prices.
Events
The events in Kepulauan Seribu are mainly influenced by the religious and cultural festivals, which celebrate the diversity and richness of the local communities and traditions. Here are some of the events in Kepulauan Seribu, based on the month:
January: This is the month when the Chinese New Year is celebrated, which is a major festival for the Chinese community in Kepulauan Seribu. You can see the colorful decorations, lanterns, and fireworks, and taste the delicious food, such as nian gao, bakpao, and angpao. You can also join the festivities, such as the lion dance, the dragon dance, and the barongsai.
February: This is the month when the Cap Go Meh is celebrated, which is the last day of the Chinese New Year celebration. You can see the grand procession of the Ong Ya (God of Prosperity) and the Ong Si (God of Wealth), who are carried on a boat from Pulau Kelapa to Pulau Onrust. You can also join the rituals, such as the praying, the offering, and the blessing.
March: This is the month when the Nyepi is celebrated, which is the Balinese New Year and the Day of Silence. You can see the unique and sacred ceremony of the Tawur Agung Kesanga, which is the purification and cleansing of the island from evil spirits. You can also join the observance, such as the fasting, the meditation, and the silence.
April: This is the month when the Easter is celebrated, which is a major festival for the Christian community in Kepulauan Seribu. You can see the solemn and festive celebration of the Holy Week, which commemorates the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. You can also join the services, such as the Palm Sunday, the Good Friday, and the Easter Sunday.
May: This is the month when the Vesak is celebrated, which is the most important festival for the Buddhist community in Kepulauan Seribu. You can see the beautiful and peaceful celebration of the Buddha’s Birthday, which marks the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha. You can also join the activities, such as the Dana, the Sila, and the Bhavana.
June: This is the month when the Idul Fitri is celebrated, which is the most important festival for the Muslim community in Kepulauan Seribu. You can see the joyful and grateful celebration of the End of Ramadan, which marks the completion of the fasting month. You can also join the prayers, such as the Salat Id, the Zakat, and the Takbir.
July: This is the month when the Kepulauan Seribu Festival is celebrated, which is the biggest and most colorful festival in Kepulauan Seribu. You can see the various and vibrant events and activities that showcase the culture, nature, and tourism of Kepulauan Seribu. You can also join the competitions, such as the boat race, the fishing contest, and the beach volleyball.
August: This is the month when the Independence Day is celebrated, which is the national day of Indonesia. You can see the patriotic and festive celebration of the Proclamation of Independence, which marks the freedom and sovereignty of Indonesia from the Dutch colonial rule. You can also join the ceremonies, such as the flag raising, the speech, and the parade.
September: This is the month when the Idul Adha is celebrated, which is another important festival for the Muslim community in Kepulauan Seribu. You can see the generous and compassionate celebration of the Feast of Sacrifice, which commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Ismail for God. You can also join the rituals, such as the Qurbani, the Eid prayer, and the Udhiyah.
October: This is the month when the Diwali is celebrated, which is a major festival for the Hindu community in Kepulauan Seribu. You can see the bright and festive celebration of the Festival of Lights, which signifies the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. You can also join the traditions, such as the puja, the diya, and the rangoli.
November: This is the month when the Maulid Nabi is celebrated, which is another important festival for the Muslim community in Kepulauan Seribu. You can see the respectful and reverent celebration of the Birth of Prophet Muhammad, who is the founder and the leader of Islam. You can also join the recitations, such as the Quran, the Hadith, and the Mawlid.
December: This is the month when the Christmas is celebrated, which is another major festival for the Christian community in Kepulauan Seribu. You can see the merry and festive celebration of the Birth of Jesus Christ, who is the son of God and the savior of the world. You can also join the celebrations, such as the carol, the mass, and the gift.
Kepulauan Seribu is a paradise of islands near Jakarta that offers a variety of attractions and activities for all kinds of travelers. Whether you are looking for a tropical getaway, a cultural immersion, or an adventurous exploration, you will find something that suits your interests and budget in Kepulauan Seribu. You can enjoy the beauty and diversity of the islands, the culture, and the wildlife, while also experiencing the convenience and comfort of the accommodation, the transportation, and the services.
You can also plan your trip according to the weather, the seasons, and the events, to make the most of your time and money. Kepulauan Seribu is one of the best destinations in Indonesia for a memorable and relaxing vacation. Don’t miss this opportunity and book your trip to Kepulauan Seribu today!
