The spirit of nationalism in welcoming the National Awakening Day (May 20) is not only felt by people who live on large islands of Indonesia. As a matter of fact, the spirit of nationalism continues to surge to the outermost islands in Indonesia which are directly adjacent to neighboring countries.

Quoting from the website of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), Outermost Small Islands (PPKT) are small islands with an area of approximately 2,000 square kilometers, and have a geographical coordinate base point that connects the archipelagic sea baseline in accordance with international and national law. In other words, Indonesia’s outermost islands are included in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). 

Although it is classified as difficult to reach, it turns out that almost every destination in Indonesia’s outermost islands has a charm of natural beauty that should not be underestimated. Because of its beauty, the outer islands are often considered a paradise on the border of Indonesia.

Here are 6 outermost island destinations of Indonesia that famous for their natural beauty:

Natuna Island

Until now, Natuna Island is still one of Indonesia’s outermost island destinations that are famous for its natural beauty. Part of the Kepulauan Riau Province facing directly to the South China Sea, Natuna Island has exotic tourist destinations. 

If you want a beach tour, Sobat Parekraf can visit Teluk Buton Beach and Sahi Beach in Natuna Island. If you want island hopping, you can visit Senua Island, which is famous for its turtle conservation center and educational tours. In addition to enjoying the lovely beach scenery, we also have the opportunity to snorkel to see hundreds of coral reefs that are still well preserved.

Marimpit Island

Another Indonesian outermost island tourist destination is Marimpit Island, North Sulawesi. With an area of 12 square kilometers, this island which is directly adjacent to the Philippines has three kampung or villages, namely Marimpit Village, Laluhe Village, and Dampulis Village. 

Even though it is located at the northern edge of Indonesia, the tourism potential of Marimpit Island should not be underestimated. There are many activities that can be done on this outermost island, starting from beach tourism such as diving and exploring the island, seeing first-hand the endemic flora and fauna, to historical tours visiting the karst fortress relics of the Bantek Kingdom.

Photos: Coastal beauty on Rote Island which borders the Indian Ocean (Shutterstock/PapaNoah)

Rote Island

Next is Rote Island, the outermost island of Indonesia located in the Sawi Sea, and is bordered by the Indian Ocean to the south. Known as the southernmost island of Indonesia, Rote Island is well-known for beaches that are second to none.

One of them is Nemberala Beach. This white sand beach is a tourist destination targeted by tourists who like surfing, since it is the best surfing spot on Rote Island with its challenging 7-meter high waves.

If you are looking for a quiet beach, Telaga Nirwana Beach is the right choice. The most popular one on Rote Island is famous for its calm and crystal clear water flow. So, it is perfect for calming the mind while kayaking.

Miangas Island

The outermost islands of Indonesia located on the border between Indonesia and the Philippines are in Kepulauan Talaud Regency. It is Miangas Island, the outermost island which is in the northernmost part of Indonesia’s territory.

The island which is known as “Palmas” has many beautiful beaches. One of them is Merra Beach, a beautiful beach in Miangas which is famous for its fine white sand and refreshing sea water. Due to its hidden location, the cleanliness of the beach is still very well maintained. 

Weh Island

When Miangas Island is the outermost island in the northern part of Indonesia, now we are taking a trip to the outermost island located at the western tip of Indonesia, namely Pulau Weh. Known as "Paradise in the Western Tip of Indonesia'', the northern island of Aceh has a lot of tourism potential.

As sunrise lovers, Sobat Parekraf can visit Iboih Beach to unwind while enjoying the stunning beauty of sunrise. We can also enjoy exotic natural rocks with golden white sand sparkling beautifully.

If you want to explore underwater, you can visit the snorkeling paradise at Sumur Tiga Beach. Only 10 minutes from Sabang City, this beach offers marine beauty with a beautiful and natural environment.

Liki Island

Another tourist destination on the outermost islands of Indonesia that is no less charming is Liki Island. The outermost island of Indonesia, which is directly facing the Pacific Ocean is famous for its exotic underwater beauty. 

Arriving on the island for the first time, Sobat Parekraf will be greeted with clean white sand beaches, with clear graded seawater. So clear that we can see marine life with the naked eye. Interestingly, tourists can also see hordes of dolphins that often appear in the morning until noon. 

Those are the 6 outermost island destinations of Indonesia that are famous for their natural beauty. So, which island that you are interested in visiting, Sobat Parekraf?

Cover: Natuna Island has exotic tourist destinations (Shutterstock/Fajar_HM)