Anambas Islands Guide
Welcome to the Anambas Islands guide – our second edition that is specifically designed to meet the needs of developers, travellers, and investors.
Within these pages, you’ll find an exploration of the islands’ culture, infrastructure, natural attractions, and emerging opportunities. From highlighting current projects and investment prospects to outlining local customs and hidden gems for adventurers, this guide delivers the practical information to fully appreciate, and sustainably engage with, the vibrant potential of the Anambas Islands.
Whether you are a seasoned traveller seeking a destination of exceptional natural beauty, or an environmentally responsible developer seeking out a new resort region that offers exceptional yield and uplift potential, we hope this guide provides you with the actionable insights to realise your aspirations.
We hope you enjoy reading this guide as much as we did in researching and writing it for you, and we look forward to seeing you soon – in the paradise islands of the Anambas archipelago.
Contents
Anambas Islands Summary – The location, population, and the government’s push to balance pristine nature with emerging tourism infrastructure.
Geography of the Anambas Islands – Overview of the archipelago’s Maldives-like waters and Ha Long Bay–style cliffs, creating a distinct tropical landscape.
History of the Anambas Islands – Key historical periods, from ancient maritime trade and Dutch colonization to WWII and modern Indonesian governance.
Anambas Islands Culture – Festivals, food, and the unique blend of traditions.
Anambas Islands Population – Ethnic diversity, cultural influences, and the population distribution of some of the friendliest people on the planet.
Weather and Climate of the Anambas Islands – Year-round balmy temperatures, rainy vs. dry seasons, and other meteorological data.
Travel & Logistics – Practical details on reaching the islands, plus advice on inter-island travel by boat, speedboat, and charter.
Key Locations – Highlights of major towns (Letung, Terempa), airports, and the many villages—often built on stilts—across the archipelago.
Accommodation & Resort Summary – Lodging options spanning budget homestays to ultra-luxury resorts, including nightly rates and notable properties.
Tourism & Attractions – Main draw cards showcasing the islands’ blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery.
Geology of the Anambas Islands – Stable geological setting well away from major fault lines, ensuring low earthquake or tsunami risk.
Future Infrastructure – Runway expansions, new ferry terminals, new resorts and government strategies to enhance tourism connectivity.
Conservation and Preservation – Collaborative efforts by government, NGOs, and private groups to conserve the pristine environment.
Development & Investment – Zoning laws, government policies, and the balance between eco-conscious construction and economic growth.
Market Gaps and Future Potential – Opportunities in mid-tier, culturally integrated, and eco-focused resorts given limited competition and rising demand.
Additional Resources – Links and references for deeper research into the region, regulations, development, and cultural immersion.
Anambas Islands Summary
The Anambas Islands (Kabupaten Kepulauan Anambas) is a mostly uninhabited island archipelago in located in the Natuna sea, 270 km Northeast of Singapore. The archipelago consists of 255 islands, with approximately 230 completely uninhabited, and a local population of 50,000 people residing on the remaining 25 islands in the province.
Although these tropical islands are globally celebrated by diving and sailing enthusiasts, they have, until recently, remained largely unknown to the wider world.
Acknowledging the archipelago’s unique natural environment and its proximity to the global transport hub of Singapore, the Indonesian government has prioritised regional infrastructure to support a growing tourism market. Backed by this strategic government support, the Anambas Islands offer a blend of natural untamed beauty, with emerging tourism infrastructure. Future projects are likely to draw increased global interest, creating space for measured, sustainable growth.
With their unique natural beauty, cultural richness, and exceptional development yield, the Anambas islands present a compelling option for those interested in either visiting or developing an authentic corner of Southeast Asia.
Geography of the Anambas Islands
The Anambas Islands are often described as a unique fusion of the Maldives and Ha Long Bay Vietnam, blending the best of both iconic destinations.
Like the Maldives, the Anambas boast crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and idyllic white-sand beaches that exude tropical paradise. Yet, they also feature the dramatic karsts and rugged cliffs reminiscent of Ha Long Bay, creating a striking contrast between serene tropical beaches and towering, jungle-covered peaks.
The islands boast some of the most picturesque beaches in Southeast Asia. Powdery white sands meet crystal-clear lagoons, while palm-fringed shorelines stretch into the horizon. Most beaches remain untouched, offering a sense of seclusion rarely found elsewhere. Hidden coves and deserted islands add an adventurous aspect for visitors seeking quiet escapes or developers scouting potential resort locations.
If you wish to explore the archipelago’s geography in more detail, including photos of its unique topography and points of interest, please read our comprehensive article Anambas Islands Geography.
Anambas Islands History
The history of the archipelago is a rich tapestry of influence and occupation, shaped by centuries of maritime trade, migration, and conquest in the region. A few key periods of history are.
- Silk Road of the Sea – From the 2nd century BCE to the 15th century CE the islands served as a stopover for traders navigating between mainland Asia and the Indonesian archipelago, likely influencing early settlement patterns and the region fell under the influence of various empires.
- Dutch Colonial Era – From the 18th century the Dutch East India Company claimed the Anambas Islands as part of their expansion into the Indonesian archipelago.
- WW II (1942–1945) – The islands were briefly occupied by Japan during the war, as part of their strategy in the Pacific Theatre.
- Post-Independence Era (1949–Present) – Following Indonesia’s independence from Dutch rule in 1949, the Anambas Islands became part of the Republic of Indonesia and were later integrated into the Riau Islands Province.
If you would like to take a deep dive into the rich history of the archipelago, check Kepri Estates’ Detailed History of the Anambas Islands.
Anambas Islands Culture
Despite its emerging role as a tourist destination, the Anambas Islands remain committed to preserving their cultural identity, offering travelers an authentic glimpse into a way of life steeped in history and tradition. The culture here is deeply rooted in the traditions of its ethnically diverse population, blending Malay, Chinese, and Bugis influences into a unique tapestry of customs, festivals, and everyday life.
Food
Ah, the delicious dishes of the paradise islands…The traditional dishes of the Anambas Islands reflect the archipelago’s maritime roots and Malay cultural influences, with seafood playing a central role in local cuisine. Freshly caught fish, squid, and prawns are often prepared with aromatic spices and coconut milk, creating rich and flavorful dishes.
Favorites include nasi dagang, a fragrant rice dish served with spiced fish curry, and otak-otak, a grilled fish cake wrapped in banana leaves. Another popular treat is laksa Anambas, a unique noodle soup featuring a creamy coconut broth infused with local herbs. These dishes not only offer a taste of the islands but also highlight the community’s connection to the sea and its bounty.
Festivals
An example of preserving the distinct cultural elements, the Budaya Tuah Utare Festival is a cultural event held in the Anambas Islands, Indonesia, aimed at promoting the rich Malay heritage of the region. The festival features various traditional performances, including dances such as the “Lemak Manis” and “Tarian” by local art groups.
If you would like to explore the authentic culture and delicious dishes a little further, check out our Anambas Islands Cultural Guide.
Anambas Islands Population
The biggest ethnic group in the Anambas islands is the Bugis, renowned for seafaring and skilled boatbuilding. However, Chinese and Malay influences are also prevalent, shaping local food, festivals, and architecture.
Although the population is small the local customs are robust. Ultimately, the archipelago’s cultural identity is shaped by its isolation, maritime legacy, and historical layering of influences. That same mix of factors creates a sense of authenticity, far removed from mass tourism spots like Bali or Lombok.
People who come here often comment on the warmth of local hospitality, the scarcity of commercial “tourist traps,” and the unique fusion of sights, sounds and flavours from multiple ethnic traditions living side by side.
The Anambas archipelago is a great example of how a population with various ethnicities and religions can live in harmony. Islam is the most popular religion, followed by Protestant, Catholic, Hindu and Buddhist.
The population of the Anambas Islands is approximately 50,000 people, with just over half the population living on Matak, Siantan and Jemaja islands. The other half of the population reside across another 23 islands over 7 other sub districts.
| Sub District | Pop. | Percentage |
| Siantan | 13,531 | 27.8% |
| Palmatak | 7,594 | 15.6% |
| Jemaja | 6,054 | 12.4% |
| Siantan Timur | 4,429 | 9.1% |
| Kute Siantan | 4,046 | 8.3% |
| Siantan Selatan | 3,917 | 8.0% |
| Siantan Tengah | 3,433 | 7.0% |
| Jemaja Timur | 2,673 | 5.5% |
| Siantan Utara | 1,991 | 4.1% |
| Jemaja Barat | 1,069 | 2.2% |
Table 2 – Anambas islands population distribution
For more information on the people of the Anambas islands dive into our blog article People of the Anambas Islands.
Weather and Climate of the Anambas Islands
The Anambas Islands enjoy a balmy climate year-round. There are no recorded instances of typhoons or tropical cyclones directly striking the area. Instead, the weather alternates between two main seasons: April to October is drier, while October to March brings more rain and northerly winds. Temperatures remain stable, hovering around 26 to 29 degrees Celsius on most days.
Despite seasonally changing wind directions, the seas around the Anambas are remarkably calm. Wind speeds rarely exceed 20 knots. During December and January, the breeze may intensify occasionally, but it seldom disrupts travel. Fishermen still venture out daily, and inter-island ferries maintain their routes. For water sports enthusiasts, these conditions are ideal. You can safely enjoy snorkelling, paddleboarding, or kayaking for most of the year.
Our Anambas Islands Weather and Climate article has detailed month by month information on weather, winds, tides, rainfall, and temperatures.
Anambas Island Travel & Logistics
Getting to the Anambas islands is a simple process, with ferries and flights able to be booked online, and thanks to incremental government infrastructure development, you can choose multiple routes.
Getting to the Anambas Islands
Most visitors begin by taking a short ferry ride from Singapore’s Tanah Merah terminal to Batam’s Nongsa Point. The crossing takes about 25 minutes. From there, a 15-minute taxi ride brings you to Batam’s Hang Nadim airport. You can then board a Wings Air flight to Letung airport in the Anambas islands.
Once in Letung, you can then travel to your chosen destination, such as the main town of Terempa or to remote islands. The local ferry, which can hold 200 passengers, runs between Letung and Terempa. Alternatively, travellers can use private charters or speed boats for direct routes to remote islands.
Bawah Reserve also offers direct seaplane services from Batam, landing right in their private lagoon!
For detailed instructions, schedules and convenient booking links, check out our article How to Get to the Anambas Islands.
Getting around the Anambas Islands
Once you are in the Anambas, the main mode of transport is by boat. Smaller islands remain inaccessible by land because roads exist only on the larger islands like Jemaja, Siantan, and Matak. Water taxis, wooden fishing boats, and speedboats are the principal forms of daily transport.
Costs vary, with smaller boats charging just a few dollars per passenger for short hops, while bigger speedboats or private yachts can run hundreds or even thousands of dollars per day. If you plan to move around extensively, book in advance through local operators or hotel partners.
Below is a summary of the transport options.
- Water taxis – with payment per passenger based on length of travel. These boats are typically used in nearshore or sheltered waters and run to inner islands from time to time.
- Speedboat Charter – Seating 12-18 passengers, these boats are charted for exclusive use, are more expensive, but can be used to run from population centres to outer islands.
- Liveaboard Charter – A luxury liveaboard is a favoured option for the diving community. Singapore based, these vessels do package trips and dive tours to the Anambas islands and return to Singapore. Ximula sail is a fantastic option if you are considering a luxury liveaboard for your next trip.
For those keen to explore the options further, Kepri Estates’ article How to get Around in the Anambas Islands has more details of boating options, along with photos and booking links for convenience.
Anambas Islands Key Locations
Following are the key locations in the Anambas archipelago. If you want to explore the towns, villages and infrastructure in more detail, jump over to our extensive article Key Locations in the Anambas Islands.
Main Towns of the Anambas Islands
The main towns of the Anambas islands are Letung and Terempa, Letung is on the Westernmost Island of Jemaja, and Terempa is located in the Eastern region on the island of Siantan. The 2 towns are 70km distant and are serviced by the Anambas ferry running between these population centres
Airports of the Anambas Islands
The Anambas archipelago is serviced by 2 airports, Letung airport and Matak airport. Letung airport is the port of entry when flying into the Anambas, and Matak airport is no longer available to commercial aircraft, and services the distant Natuna gas fields, 500km to the North of the Anambas islands.
Villages of the Anambas Islands
There are approximately 54 villages in the Anambas regency, distributed across 26 islands. The villages are quite unusual in that they generally have a large percentage of their houses built up on stilts over the bays and inlets of the islands. Not only does it keep the houses cooler, but it helps to conserve land areas for agriculture and infrastructure.
Accommodation & Resort Summary
The Anambas islands offer an eclectic mix of lodging experiences. At one end of the spectrum, you have backpacker-friendly homestays from US$10 per night run by local families. On the other end, the only existing 5 star resort in the province, the Bawah Reserve Elang Wing commands a rate of up to US$35,000 per night! An exceptional experience no doubt, and an equally exceptional example of the development yields available to investors in the Anambas islands.
Existing Properties
Most existing accommodations are modest, catering to regional visitors from Batam, Tanjung Pinang, or mainland Indonesia. However, the standout name is Bawah Reserve, which has become synonymous with five-star luxury in the Anambas. Prices range from US$1,800 pp for a minimum 3-night stay, up to US$35,000 per night for the renowned Elang Wing which caters for up to 14 guests in a luxury private island setting.
As a more budget destination, Tenggiling island has cottage accommodation with direct beachfront access and prices starting at US$165 per night. Offering a secluded getaway with diving and snorkelling nearby, it is a great escape on a very picturesque small island in the Palmatak district of Anambas.
For a more central (and budget) experience, the Sakura Inn Terempa offers basic rooms in a 3-story waterfront property in Terempa’s main street for US$15-$25 per night.
For more details on where to stay including maps, directions on how to get there, and direct booking links, check out the Where to Stay in the Anambas Islands guide.
Anambas Islands Tourism & Attractions
There are plenty of unique experiences for travellers and guests in the Anambas islands, from tropical waterfalls, jungle treks, the unique fusion of cultures and food, not to mention the amazing sights and adventures once you put on a mask and snorkel and slip into the warm tropical waters. Following is a taste of the things to do and places to see.
Anambas Islands Points of Interest
The local sights of the Anambas span from its unique natural features to rare tropical flora and fauna, and through to cultural influences in food, festivals, construction and lifestyle. The province is truly unique in the combination it offers to both tourists and developers alike.
Natural features include
- Waterfalls (Temburun and Air Binyi).
- Extensive coral fields (pretty much everywhere).
- Panoramic tropical sunsets over surrounding islands (again – pretty much everywhere).
Rare flora and fauna of the Anambas islands include
- Giant rafflesia flowers in Siantan.
- Whale shark migrations in various locations.
- Sea eagles nesting on island peaks in Penjaling.
And points of interest from cultural influences include.
- The Dewa Siantan Vihara Terempa.
- The Anambas mosque in Terempa.
- Local restaurants serving a fusion of Chinese, Malay and Indonesian dishes.
Things to Do in the Anambas Islands
When it comes to activities, Anambas Islands do not disappoint. With calm seas, pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and waterfalls, these islands pack a surprising amount of variety into a compact geographic space. Many visitors say the archipelago rivals more famous spots like the Maldives, but with additional features like jungles, granite cliffs, and intriguing village life.
Island-Hopping and Beaches
One of the most popular activities is simply island-hopping. You can charter a boat or hire a local skipper to visit deserted isles. Expect to discover hidden lagoons, panoramic clifftops, and deserted beaches littered with coral fragments.
Camping on a deserted island is another highlight. A few local operators help travelers set up simple yet comfortable camps, complete with fresh coconuts and BBQ dinners. Waking up to a sunrise with nobody else around, except perhaps a wandering hermit crab, is an experience beyond words. And if you like seafood, many islands have coconut groves alongside shallow waters perfect for gathering clams and crustaceans.
Waterfalls and Forest Trails
The archipelago’s lush interior gives you a taste of tropical jungle adventure. Three key waterfalls—Temburun, Air Bunyi, and Neraja—present refreshing escapes. Temburun is the largest, with seven cascades before the water plunges into the sea. Because local villages remain small, trails to these waterfalls are often untouched, creating a raw, unfiltered trekking experience. En route, you might spot local flora like the giant Rafflesia flower or birds such as white-bellied sea eagles.
For a more guided experience, consider booking a private island tour with operators like Kepri Estates or local community guides. They arrange not only the logistics—like transport and gear—but also insights on local culture. Such tours also offer a chance to see unique points of interest that are rarely advertised in mainstream brochures.
Diving, Snorkelling, and Marine Life
As part of the internationally recognized “Coral Triangle,” the Anambas islands boast extraordinarily diverse coral reefs. Snorkellers can drift in calm currents, watching schools of fish or sea turtles nibble on seagrasses. Advanced divers often seek out the the renowned shipwrecks, each teeming with marine life like barracuda, nurse sharks, and giant groupers. You don’t even need to strap on a dive tank to experience the underwater wonderland of the Anambas Islands. Check out our recent video of snorkelling in paradise.
Even if you are not a seasoned diver, guided experiences can open up these underwater worlds. Some local operators plan multi-day dive excursions, which include stops at rarely explored reefs. Whale shark sightings happen during migration periods, typically around September or October. Additionally, many shallow reefs remain accessible from the shore, making snorkel gear a must-bring item for all visitors.
Clearly, there is a thrilling variety here. You can spend one day chasing waterfall bliss, the next island-hopping, and yet another discovering a new dive spot. When combined with local culture, fresh seafood, and the archipelago’s inherent tranquillity, your Anambas vacation can be both adventurous and relaxing.
Desert Island Survival in the Anambas Islands
For a life changing experience, craft a truly unforgettable adventure by pairing breathtaking, uninhabited islands with the world’s top bushcraft instructors, then disconnect from the modern world and live out a genuine adventure like no other.
For a further range of things to see and do in the Anambas islands, check out the 27 things to see and do in the Anambas Islands
Geology of the Anambas Islands
In addition to favourable weather, the Anambas Islands benefit from geological stability. They lie hundreds of kilometres from major tectonic plate boundaries, so earthquakes and tsunamis are virtually non-existent. Even after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and Japan’s 2011 Tohoku earthquake, the province experienced no noticeable effects. This security is a key advantage for investors wary of natural disasters that could affect long-term resort operations.
For more detail on the stability of the region, an important consideration for all investors (and their insurance companies!) check out our detailed guide, the Geotechnical Guide to the Anambas islands.
Future Infrastructure
The Indonesian government recognizes that continuing infrastructure investments’ is key to transforming the Anambas into a global tourism destination. Plans to lengthen Letung Airport’s runway are well underway, and the new airport terminal has now been completed.
Once the Letung airport runway extension is completed, the airport will cater for international regional flights, and the Anambas islands will be less than 3hrs away from over 12 major international flight hubs and readily accessible to tourists from SE Asia, with destinations ranging from Bali (2hrs 40 minutes) to Hong Kong (3hrs).
Meanwhile, the new international ferry terminal in Letung will likely cater to cruise ships that traverse Singapore, Malaysia, or Hong Kong routes.
For developers seeking more detailed information on infrastructure developments planned, both by government and by private enterprise, please head over to Kepri Estates’ article on Infrastructure of the Anambas Islands.
Developments in the Anambas Islands
Room supply in the archipelago remains very limited, and this lack of competition, along with the exceptional yields demonstrated by the Bawah Reserve, is one of the significant draw cards for developers.
Chief among developments in progress is The Pavilions Anambas, set to introduce upscale accommodations with a strong focus on sustainability. The development consists of 10 luxury residences and 12 guest villas spread across two private islands. Backed by an internationally recognised brand, synonymous with luxury destinations, The Pavilions development is attracting global attention to the region.
Other developments in various stages from predevelopment are.
- Anambas Eco Resort – 18-24 villas in the Palmatak region
- Expansion of Tenggiling island accommodation
- YU Developments resort and wellness retreat – 100 rooms in Siantan Timur district
- Teluk Kelapa beach resort – 72 villas in Siantan Timur district.
Our article – Anambas Islands Resort Locations provides further detail on the locations and scopes of existing and planned resort developments, including maps and other spatial data.
Anambas Islands Conservation and Preservation
Marine conservation plays an important part in the archipelago, and sustained community, private enterprise and government efforts further enhance the region’s attractiveness. Some notable mentions are.
- Most of the Anambas islands are inside a government gazetted marine park.
- Local landowners take active steps to maintain sea turtle nesting on the Northern beaches and curb predation of eggs before hatching.
- Bawah Anambas foundation undertakes conservation and research, environmental education and community development.
- Kepri Estates undertakes “purchase and release” of high value finfish.
- International organisations attend for turtle nesting season to help ensure hatchlings safely make it into the water without predation.
- Export of the endangered hump head wrasse has been curbed.
It is through efforts such as these, that the natural environment continues to flourish and avoid such degradation seen in other areas of Indonesia, and Southeast Asia generally. It is also testament to how government, private enterprise and community value the unique wilderness of Anambas Islands and wish to ensure its preservation for the generations that follow.
For those wishing to dive into the details of ESG and conservation in the province, our Anambas Islands Conservation article gives details of the initiatives and goals of the various stakeholders in preserving this tropical wilderness.
Anambas Islands Development & Investment
Perhaps, paradoxically, alongside the significant efforts in conservation and preservation of the Anambas islands, the government also recognises that such an attractive and unique environment is becoming a drawcard for investment and development. As a result, they have legislated limited development zoning to accommodate such investment.
By selectively zoning various islands and beaches for development, the government hopes to draw significant investment into the province, on the expectation that the social and economic benefits of doing so will directly and indirectly assist with ongoing conservation preservation of the natural resources.
If future developers follow the exemplary efforts of the Anambas Foundation, and apply the principles of environmental, social and governance (ESG) aligned with the Anambas Islands’ unique and pristine environment, there is no reason the two can’t exist harmoniously. In fact, with current developer’s plans within the province, there is a strong possibility that this region can set a new benchmark in how development can actually enhance conservation and preservation of natural environments.
For actionable insights into sustainable eco resort development concepts that are appropriate for the Anambas Islands, keep an eye out for Kepri Estates article on Eco Resort Sustainable Development Concepts which will be published early 2025 as part of our Developing Private Islands article series.
Property Acquisition in the Anambas Islands
Indonesia’s laws allow foreign investors to acquire property through a locally incorporated entity known as a PT PMA (Penanaman Modal Asing). This structure grants long-term usage rights under a HGB (Hak Guna Bangunan) title.
Zoning categories in the Anambas include “white,” “pink,” and “yellow” land. Each colour dictates allowable building envelopes, setbacks, and usage restrictions.
- “White” zoned land is land available for immediate development.
- “Pink” zoned land is available for limited development and restrictions apply.
- “Yellow” zoning restricts terrestrial development but could host water villa resorts.
Kepri Estates has detailed information on the title types, zoning and land use, as well as some insights on how to maximise uplift and yield in the province, in our Anambas Islands Development article series.
Investing in the Anambas Islands
| Indonesian Land Prices 2025 | ||
| Location | Low (USD/m2) | High (USD/m2) |
| Anambas Beachfront | $ 4.68 | $ 83.15 |
| Anambas Islands | $ 16.85 | $ 115.20 |
| Bali | $ 122.70 | $ 3,067.48 |
| Lombok | $ 61.35 | $ 490.80 |
| Gili Islands | $ 184.05 | $ 613.50 |
| Sumba | $ 30.67 | $ 429.45 |
One key reason to invest is the region’s synergy of geography and policy. You will find shores less susceptible to sea-level rise, a pristine natural environment, and supportive government policies to encourage tourism. New ports and extended airport runways are set to transform these islands into a global destination.
For those focused on ROI, the Bawah Reserve is clear testament to the exceptional yields that await developers.
Additionally, the region is significantly cheaper compared to well-established hotspots. Some beaches sell for as low as USD $4.68/m2, and entire uninhabited islands are available for less than USD$17.00/m2. With limited land actively zoned for tourism, scarcity will drive appreciation. Meanwhile, foreign brands like Pavilions Hotels have already entered the market, boosting international recognition.
Lastly, the recency of the region for premium eco-tourism provides many options for verticals. From boat charters, diving excursions, or other ecotourism ventures. Being part of the coral triangle also offers potential for eco-certifications, attracting guests who prioritise sustainability. Successful models, like Bawah Reserve, show that travellers are willing to pay a premium for immersive, eco-focused experiences in the Anambas islands.
Kepri Estates series of articles Anambas Islands vs Others breaks down the pros and cons of more well-known global, regional, and in country resort development regions compared to the Anambas islands, breaking it down into key metrics for development.
Market Gaps and Future Potential
Even a cursory look reveals a big gap in four-star or upper mid-tier accommodations. In fact, Teluk Kelapa (in feasibility stage) is the only planned development catering for the US$200-$800 per night market segment!
Many tourists, both local and international, prefer something comfortable yet not prohibitively expensive. This presents a clear opportunity for developers. Resorts that feature local culture, eco-conscious designs, and moderate pricing don’t currently exist.
Overall, existing lodging covers only a fraction of the potential market. This reality is sparking more interest from hoteliers and resort operators eyeing exotic frontiers, particularly given that they are in the enviable position to shape how tourism evolves. The unique position to be price setters and not price takers, with the limited to non-existent amount of competition is certainly an attractive proposition.
An overview of development zones and locations is available in Kepri Estates Anambas Islands Zoning and Development article, part of the Anambas islands Maps series.
Anambas Islands Future Outlook
The Bawah Reserve started as a private island purchase. Today, it charges up to US$35,000 per night and regularly hosts celebrity guests. Similarly, the Pavilions Anambas plan is leveraging the crystal-clear waters and stunning outlooks in their dual island development, set to provide unsurpassed guest experiences.
Moving forward, with global appetite turning more to sustainable and socially responsible experiences, remote but accessible islands like the Anambas shine brightly. Whether you aim to launch a single boutique resort or invest in large multi-island parcels, the province’s yield potential is proven. Investors have a unique opportunity to define the market narrative, setting benchmarks for both sustainability and investment returns.
Anambas Islands Additional Resources
If you want to dive deeper into specific aspects of the Anambas, we have developed numerous resources to guide you. Some focus on business regulations, while others highlight environmental protections or the unique cultural facets of the local population. By consulting these materials, you can fill any information gaps and plan your visit or investment with greater confidence.
By Kepri Estates
- Private Island Blog– Features articles on how to buy private islands, zoning processes, carbon-neutral power solutions, and more. This is a go-to site for step-by-step breakdowns of local regulations, typical transaction costs, and design ideas aligned with the Anambas islands.
- Private Island FAQ – Arguably the most comprehensive guide available on sourcing, acquiring and developing on private islands and beaches. Contains numerous links to video resources, instruction guides, laws, regulations and pretty much everything else you need to know about finding, buying and developing tropical islands and beaches.
- Private Islands – Lists currently available island properties, from pocket-sized beaches to massive multi-island clusters. Each listing usually includes topographical details, photos, and basic zoning info.
- Private Beaches – Perfect if you are seeking smaller plots, each with direct beach frontage. You will find a wide price range, giving you flexibility in how large or small you want your project to be.
- Villas and Resorts – Showcases existing villa or resort developments that may need partial or full rehabilitation. This option is especially appealing to those who prefer to avoid starting from scratch.
- Developer Support Services – From shortlisting sites, to touring them, sourcing, acquiring and developing private islands, check out the range of developer support services available to Kepri Estates clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I get a more information on development opportunities?
Kepri Estates is the realtor and development partner of choice in the province, with boots on the ground, multinational development experience over 3 decades and a curated portfolio of development sites carefully selected to maximise yield and uplift. Contact us for further actionable insights. - Can I open an international flight route to my resort?
Potentially, yes. The government is expanding Letung Airport. Seaplane entry is already allowed if you secure proper permits and comply with immigration requirements on-site. - Which months are best for diving?
April to October typically sees calmer seas. However, you can dive almost year-round, with some fluctuation in water clarity.
The Anambas Islands – Conclusion
The Anambas Islands combine unspoiled nature, rich cultural layers, and promising investment possibilities. For a traveller, the archipelago provides an off-the-beaten-path alternative to the world’s more crowded beaches. Imagine hiking through rainforest to a seven-tier waterfall, snorkelling above kaleidoscopic coral reefs, or savouring fresh local cuisine in an over-water village. Each day can be a new discovery in this near-mythical environment.
Meanwhile, for those with a business focus, the Anambas present a once-in-a-generation chance to shape an emerging destination. Limited zoning preserves the region’s raw beauty, yet the government’s infrastructure enhancements pave the way for increased international arrivals. This dual dynamic means tourism can expand without sacrificing the archipelago’s ecological integrity.
Property prices remain literally an order of magnitude under some other regions, offering the potential for superior returns if your development approach aligns with sustainability and local cultural respect.
In any case, these paradise islands of the Anambas archipelago are still writing their story. Years from now, the region may host a string of well-regulated eco-resorts and a thriving marine park that supports both tourism and conservation. Or it may draw a global circle of investors seeking eco-conscious ventures. Whichever path it takes, the Anambas’ wealth of natural wonders will remain the bedrock of its appeal for generations that follow…