Top 27 Things to Do and See in the Anambas: Stunning Guide

Author – Kepri Estates   |   Reading Time – 9 minutes   |   Published 23:25 (SGT) 23/02/2026

If you’ve never heard of the Anambas Islands[2], don’t fret. Scattered across the South China Sea between Malaysia & Borneo, these emerald isles feature white beaches, dense rainforest and vivid reef gardens. In this article, we’ll look at the top 27 things to do and see in Anambas.

More than 250 tiny islands drift on teal waters — each one a dream paradise in its own right. You can hop between isles, snorkel among coral walls, observe turtles nesting by the soft shimmer of night skies or swim beside whale sharks for an experience you’ll never forget in your life. Learn more about the Anambas Islands Geography.

For investors after growth or developers of new resorts, the top 27 things to do & see in the Anambas Islands show fresh land, rising sustainability trend and curious travellers. This bucket list of attractions, both land-based and marine, draws sun-seekers, nature lovers and those looking for some adventure. Thanks to the Special Economic Zone status protecting the natural environment, you’ll find silky beaches, jungle hikes and slow afternoons by private lagoons.

Ready to start your online tour? Read on for 27 must-see highlights here, whether you’re planning your next trip or plotting a new eco-resort. Check the full Anambas Islands Guide[2] and kick-start your island adventure!

Contents

1. Top Things to Do and See in the Anambas for Travelers
2. Turtle Nesting & Hatching on Durai Island
3. Palau Bawah Lagoon
4. Spices of Paradise at La Luna Restaurant
5. Giant Rafflesia in Their Natural Environment
6. Test Your Survival Skills on a Deserted Tropical Island
7. Temburun Waterfall
8. Jongkong Race Competition
9. Drift Snorkeling with a Paddleboard
10. Feast on Fresh Coconuts
11. Visit the Abandoned Villages of Ujung Island
12. Discover the Igara Shipwreck
13. Charter a Liveaboard Boat & Island Hop
14. Picnic Lunch at Rinyi Island
15. Seashell & Coral Collecting on Semut Bakau
16. Snorkeling the Mengkudu Island Coral Fields
17. Nyamuk Jetty Restaurant
18. Jurassic Bay at Lobong Temban Island
19. Tarempa Mosque
20. Spot the Napoleon Wrasse at Batu Garam
21. Market Street in Terempa & Siantan Temple Visit
22. Sunrise from the Anambas Resort Beaches
23. Air Terjun Neraja (Air Bunyi) Forest Waterfall
24. Sea Turtles Grazing on Seagrasses of Buan Island
25. Private Island Tour to Pulau Penjalin
26. Tropical & Rare Bird Watching
27. Whale Shark Spotting
28. Sunsets Over the Islands
29. Key Takeaways
30. FAQs
31. Further Research
32. References

What are the Top Things to Do and See in the Anambas for Travelers?

The top things to do and see in the Anambas involve exploring the Coral Triangle, snorkeling Pulau Bawah, and witnessing turtle nesting on Durai Island. This remote region boasts sustainable tourism opportunities, including jungle trekking and diving the Igara shipwreck, providing a great experience for those looking for green luxury.

1. Turtle Nesting & Hatching on Durai Island

 

 

 

 

2. The Incredible Palau Bawah (Pulau Bawah) Lagoon

 

 

 

 

3. Spices of Paradise at La Luna Restaurant

Are you a culinary tourist? La Luna restaurant makes fresh seafood using regional spice blends, all served beside breathtaking views of Terempa Bay and the Tarempa Mosque. Delight all your senses and experience the local culture through your taste buds. Go over to Kepri Estates’ Instagram[6] & X (Twitter)[7] for more seaside dining experiences.[2]

 

 

 

4. Captivating Giant Rafflesia Flowers in Their Natural Environment

If you love jungle treks or spotting rare flowers, encountering the Rafflesia arnoldii plant ranks high among the Top Anambas Islands’ points of interest. It is, after all, the world’s largest flower. On the trail to Air Bunyi Waterfall, lucky visitors may come across this giant flower in bloom, resulting in a memory that they’ll carry for a lifetime.[8] It’s one of the top things to see in the region for nature lovers.

 

 

 

 

 

5. Test Your Survival Skills on a Deserted Tropical Island

Looking for a challenging adventure? Deserted Island Survival tours provide hands-on lessons coupled with unadulterated adventure. Build shelters, catch and cook food, and live like a castaway while severing all ties with the modern world. What’s more, the rich, colourful foliage and cloudless skies make it even more exciting.[9] It’s ideal for anyone wanting an immersive experience away from their usual life.

 

 

 

6. The Breathtaking Temburun Waterfall (Air Terjun Neraja)

No list of tourist spots in the Anambas Islands is complete without Temburun Waterfall, also called Air Terjun Neraja. Seven tiers of water falling over 200 metres, perfect for cool dips after a forest trek. Nearby eco-lodges provide simple accommodation close to this natural beauty. Local hosts will guide you to this hidden gem.[2]

 

 

 

 

7. Jongkong Race Competition

One of the top attractions to see in the Anambas Islands is the Jongkong Race, where hand-crafted dugouts speed over the water. The crowd’s cheers and the smell of salt in the air create the atmosphere for a truly local festivity. Visitors can feel the excitement long after they leave. Learn more about this event[2].

 

 

 

 

8. Drift Snorkeling with a Paddleboard

Paddleboarding with a snorkelling mask lets you float above colourful coral walls in the Coral Triangle. Let yourself be carried by gentle currents as shoals of multicolored fish swim past you below. This is one of the top 27 things to do & see in the Anambas Islands for those who love underwater activities.[3]

 

 

 

 

 

9. Feast on Fresh Coconuts

No tropical experience is complete without sipping young coconut water under swaying palms. Local vendors split open the coconuts so you can drink straight from the shell. It’s a surprisingly refreshing drink that feels great under the tropical sun.

 

 

 

 

10. Visit the Abandoned Villages of Ujung Island

If you are a fan of history and want to capture some unique photos, a visit to Ujung Island’s village ruins is something to look forward to. Trees thread through wooden walls, providing eerie scenes you often see in a movie. For stories on the people who lived here once upon a time, read the historic backstory[10]. Learning the history of the place lets you look at it through a new lens and will add more intrigue to the experience.

 

 

 

 

11. Discover the Igara Shipwreck

Scuba fans will love the Igara wreck that lies under the sea. The wreck is now home to snapper shoals, giant groupers and coral gardens thriving on the steel hull. It’s one of the most intriguing things to see in the Anambas Islands for underwater adventurers.

 

 

 

 

12. Charter a Liveaboard Boat & Island Hop

Island hopping is a favoured activity in the Anambas Archipelago. Hire a liveaboard yacht to make trips to Pulau Penjalin, Bawah and secret coves. At dawn, discover new places to snorkel and encounter marine life that will result in lasting experiences.

 

 

 

13. Picnic Lunch at Rinyi Island

For a day of relaxation, visit Rinyi Island, which is just a short boat ride from Terempa. White sand beaches, shallow water and jungle trails make it a great location for a beachside lunch. It ranks high among the best things to do in the Anambas Islands, appealing to both families and solo wanderers.

 

 

 

 

14. Seashell & Coral Collecting on Semut Bakau

At low tide, Semut Bakau will reveal a gorgeous collection of shells and some coral. Take some home with you as ornaments (and leave the rest alone for starfish to cling to). Every time you look at these shells at home, you will be reminded of the good time you had at the beach, and your lips will crack into a smile.

 

 

 

 

15. Snorkeling the Mengkudu Island Coral Fields

Mengkudu Island is famous in the Anambas Islands for its clear shallows and beautiful coral fields. Equip your snorkel to observe tropical fish, bright reef bass, and the odd manta that swims past. It makes for an experience you’ll talk about for many days after you leave the place.[12]

 

 

 

16. Nyamuk Jetty Restaurant

For a real flavor of the Anambas islands, book a table on Nyamuk’s wooden jetty. Freshly-caught seafood will be supplied by nearby boats, and you dine with panoramic views of the ocean. You’ll see why it’s among the top 27 things to do and see in the Anambas Islands for food-lovers.

 

 

 

17. Jurassic Bay at Lobong Temban Island

Jurassic Bay on Lobong Temban Island teleports you to a lost world. Sheer rock walls alongside trunks worn with time border a wild cove that is renowned for hikes and some amazing photography. If you want a place that feels out of the ordinary, this is your spot.

 

 

 

 

 

18. Tarempa Mosque

Visit the iconic Tarempa Mosque, an azure-domed landmark overlooking the harbour. It gives you a chance to glimpse into island worship. This cultural stop is appropriately listed in the most interesting things to do and see in the Anambas Islands, especially if you are religious yourself.

 

 

 

19. Spot the Napoleon Wrasse at Batu Garam

Those who like underwater activities have to visit Batu Garam to swim alongside gentle Napoleon wrasse. These large reef fish can be spotted among coral gardens, symbols of a healthy marine ecosystem. It goes on to showcase the rich marine biodiversity of the Anambas region.

 

 

 

 

20. Market Street in Terempa & Siantan Temple Visit

Walk through Terempa’s market lanes to buy tropical fruit and local crafts while having warm conversations with the shopkeepers. After you have done shopping, go to Siantan Temple to witness vibrant colours and tranquil halls. Tourists never fail to visit these places, for good reason.

 

 

 

21. Sunrise from the Anambas Resort Beaches

Rise before dawn on your resort beach or overwayer villa deck to watch the sunrise, and see the golden rays reflect off the calm early morning sea. Palm silhouettes against a backdrop of pastel skies make this a favourite among the attractions in the Anambas Islands.

 

 

 

 

22. Air Terjun Neraja (Air Bunyi) Forest Waterfall

Situated deep in the woods near Air Bini, the Air Terjun Neraja waterfall drops into a glassy basin. A short trek will take you to a lush retreat, ideal for a relaxing swim and a relaxing hammock time afterwards. It is one of many examples of the natural beauty the Anambas region brings to the table.

 

 

 

23. Sea Turtles Grazing on Seagrasses of Buan Island

If you go there early, you can observe a peaceful lagoon scene where green turtles graze amid seagrass meadows just off the coast. Watching them munch underwater will be a treat to watch for wildlife enthusiasts. Nearby eco-projects show how you can contribute to protecting these creatures. Read more on the Features page[14].

 

 

 

24. Private Island Tour to Pulau Penjalin & More

Hire a private boat for Pulau Penjalin or Durai if you want some time alone. Walk on empty shores with a local skipper who can guide you to every hidden cove. It’s a great destination for those looking for an off-grid adventure. Watch Kepri Estates’ YouTube[16] for ideas and check out their Private Island Services[15].

 

 

 

25. Tropical & Rare Bird Watching, including Sea Eagles

With over 170 species from kingfishers to sea eagles, the Anambas archipelago is a paradise for bird watching. Join a guided walk in the morning to see colourful orioles and raptors gliding along coastlines. This ranks among the Top 27 things to do & see in the Anambas Islands for wildlife enthusiasts. See the sustainability page[17] for more information on how these natural assets contribute to tourism in the region.

 

 

 

26. Whale Shark Spotting

Each autumn, these gentlest of giants visit the nearby waters. Equip a snorkel and flippers to swim alongside these whale sharks(they are actually peaceful creatures) with skilled guides by your side and witness an intimate marine show.

 

 

 

 

27. Sunsets Over the Islands

End each day sitting by the beach as the sun passes over the horizon, creating hues of red and gold in the sky and sea. Watching night fall over these isles is one of the best experiences you can go through in the Anambas Islands — a small joy you can never be tired of. Kabisu Sumba Villas features a sunset lounge from where you can witness this daily natural phenomenon.

 

 

 

 

Key Takeaways: The Top 27 Things to Do and See in the Anambas Islands

The top 27 things to do and see in the Anambas Islands we mentioned above show that this archipelago holds more than a beach holiday. You can walk on through rainforest trails, swim over coral gardens, get to local craftsmen in action and rest in green eco-lodges. With not many tourists visiting, every moment is guaranteed to be authentic and intimate.

Investors and resort creators take note: Kepri Estates has helped projects like Bawah Reserve succeed while preserving the island’s natural environment. Thanks to special status alongside community collaborations, developing low-impact retreats here is easier than ever.

These 27 highlights aren’t all the Anambas Islands have to offer; the region features many more secret coves, rare species and local stories at every corner. This handbook will get you started on the journey to experience real island life — pack your bag, select your favourite places to visit, and set off on an island adventure. Enjoy the best of sun, sea, wildlife and culture in Southeast Asia’s well-hidden secret.[2]

FAQs

1. What are the top things to do and see in the Anambas Islands?

The Top Things to Do and See in the Anambas Islands include marine exploration, rainforest trekking, and cultural visits across remote island communities. The Top Things to Do and See in the Anambas Islands focus on coral reef snorkeling, turtle nesting observation, jungle waterfalls, and quiet beaches within a largely undeveloped tropical archipelago.

2. Why are the Anambas Islands considered a hidden destination in Southeast Asia?

The Anambas Islands are considered a hidden destination in Southeast Asia because the archipelago remains lightly developed despite its ecological significance. The Anambas Islands contain extensive coral reefs, dense rainforests, and hundreds of small islands, creating a remote environment that supports low-impact tourism and conservation-focused development opportunities.

3. When is the best time to visit the Anambas Islands for marine and outdoor activities?

The best time to visit the Anambas Islands for marine and outdoor activities is generally during calmer seasonal conditions when sea visibility improves. The Anambas Islands provide more reliable access to snorkeling areas, remote beaches, and island-hopping routes when weather patterns produce stable seas and safer travel conditions.

4. How do the Anambas Islands support sustainable tourism development?

Supporting sustainable tourism development, the Anambas Islands combine protected marine ecosystems with limited infrastructure expansion. The Anambas Islands benefit from conservation-focused management and controlled land use, which helps preserve coral reefs, wildlife habitats, and coastal forests while allowing environmentally responsible tourism and resort development.

5. What marine biodiversity can be found in the Anambas Islands?

Marine biodiversity in the Anambas Islands includes coral reef ecosystems, migratory fish species, and protected marine wildlife. The Anambas Islands sit within the Coral Triangle, a global center of ocean biodiversity, supporting reef fish populations, sea turtles, large pelagic species, and diverse coral formations that sustain complex marine habitats.

The Top 27 Things to Do and See in the Anambas: Further Research

[2]   Anambas Islands Guide
[3]   Private Islands for Sale, Coral Triangle Environment
[6]   Kepri Estates Instagram
[7]   Kepri Estates on X/Twitter
[10]   Anambas Islands History
[11]   Kepri Estates Private Islands
[14]   Features of Anambas Islands for Sale
[15]   Private Island Services, Kepri Estates
[16]   Kepri Estates YouTube Channel
[17]   Sustainability & Eco Investment Guidance

References

[8]   Rafflesia arnoldii on Wikipedia – Learn about the world’s largest individual flower, its unique parasitic nature, and its Indonesian habitat.
[9]   Desert Island Survival   Indonesia Bushcraft – Discover extreme survival training courses and adventure experiences on remote, uninhabited tropical islands.
[12]   Coral Triangle on Wikipedia – Explore the global center of marine biodiversity, covering its geography, ecology, and vital conservation efforts.

To learn more about this amazing archipelago and the exceptional yields it offers for sustainable resort development, don’t miss the comprehensive Anambas Islands Guide – the ultimate guide for travellers and developers.