Indonesia has many destinations for a tropical holiday, but only a few are truly family-friendly and suitable for traveling with kids. Many parents look for a combination of safety, comfort, activities, and accessibility when choosing the ideal destination, and thankfully, Indonesia has it all.
From Bali to Wakatobi, this archipelago is filled with family-friendly spots ready to welcome travelers of all ages. Here are five of the best places for a family holiday in Indonesia, each offering something unique to suit every family’s needs for a fun and stress-free getaway.
1. Bali
Landing in Bali feels like entering a postcard, with coconut trees swaying in the warm breeze, the scent of frangipani in the air, and the excitement of your family’s adventure just beginning. Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) welcomes travelers from all over the world, with direct flights from Jakarta, Singapore, Sydney, Kuala Lumpur, and more.
With its easy access and modern facilities, Bali quickly proves why it’s often considered the best place for a family holiday in Indonesia. Once you arrive, comfort is never far away. From beachfront resorts with dedicated kids’ clubs to private villas tucked among the rice fields, Bali makes traveling with little ones feel effortless.
Brands like Ini Vie Hospitality and Stay at Solo understand exactly what families need, such as spacious bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens, private pools, and even floating breakfasts that turn mornings into magic.
Days on this tropical island can be as playful or peaceful as you like, with abundant things to do with kids in Bali. Ride the waves at Waterbom Bali, hand-feed animals at Bali Safari, or take a gentle bike ride through lush green rice paddies.
Families with toddlers can head to Mai Main Playground in Canggu, the island’s most complete indoor play space that promises hours of safe, creative fun. From cultural workshops to family-friendly beach clubs, Bali is packed with experiences that turn every moment into a memory.
Of course, no paradise is without its challenges. The island’s popularity means it can get crowded during peak holiday periods, and traffic in tourist hotspots like Seminyak or Ubud can be a test of patience.
Still, with its balance of relaxation and discovery, Bali continues to be the most beloved answer to where is the best place for a family holiday in Indonesia, especially when you are traveling to Bali with toddlers.
2. Yogyakarta
A trip to Yogyakarta feels like stepping into a living history book. After landing at Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA), it takes just over an hour by car to reach the heart of the city, passing through villages and green landscapes.
Although it may not have as many international flights as Bali, this city is very accessible for families traveling from anywhere in Indonesia. Finding a place to stay is easy since Yogyakarta has many affordable hotels and guesthouses near the famous Malioboro Street, which is filled with shops and local food.
Families who prefer a more peaceful setting can also stay in private villas closer to the countryside. These spots are great for family holidays in Indonesia that focus on bonding and learning together.
The city is rich in culture and fun for all ages, like visiting the majestic Borobudur and Prambanan temples to introduce your children to Indonesia’s incredible past. Parents can also take the kids to Taman Pintar, a colorful science park where kids can play and learn.
Families can also enjoy puppet shows, batik workshops, and experience traditional dishes like Gudeg, giving a perfect mix of education and adventure for family holidays to Indonesia. Yogyakarta is a great choice for families who want to slow down and connect with a full range of meaningful experiences without breaking the bank.
However, for families who travel with toddler or even younger kids, keep in mind that the city can get hot, and there are fewer indoor play areas than in Bali. Still, it’s a beautiful answer to where is the best place for a family holiday in Indonesia for those who love history and culture.
3. Gili Islands
Imagine a family holiday with no cars and no noise, just the sound of waves and children laughing on the beach. That’s exactly what the Gili Islands offer as one of the best places for a family holiday in Indonesia, creating a peaceful atmosphere that highlights one of the greatest family holiday benefits: quality time and emotional healing through shared experiences.
To get there, families fly into Lombok International Airport, then drive to the Bangsal harbor and take a short boat ride to one of the three islands: Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, or Gili Meno. The other alternative is that you can take a fast boat straight from Padang Bai to Gili Trawangan for a shorter travel time.
For families, Gili Air and Gili Meno are the calmest and most relaxing options. Beach bungalows and eco-resorts line the coast, many just steps away from the ocean, and some even have kitchenettes and hammocks, perfect for slow mornings with your little ones.
These islands are designed for quality time, ideal for family holidays in Indonesia that feel like a true escape. It’s a bit of a journey, but the moment your feet touch the sand, it’s all worth it.
There’s plenty to do without a screen in sight. Snorkel with turtles, build sandcastles, or rent bikes and ride along the shoreline together. With no motorized vehicles allowed, it’s safe for kids to roam, making family holidays to Indonesia feel magical and peaceful.
However, families with babies or toddlers should consider the lack of medical facilities and indoor entertainment options. Travel time might also be tiring for some. Still, for those wanting a quiet break, the Gilis remain one of the most beautiful answers to where is the best place for a family holiday in Indonesia.
4. Sumba
For families craving nature and culture in a private setting, Sumba offers something truly different. To get there, you’ll fly from Bali or Kupang to Tambolaka or Waingapu Airport, with a longer journey and a lot of transits from your home country.
However, as you touch this unexplored land, Sumba rewards you with wide open landscapes, quiet beaches, and a peaceful way of life. Accommodation in Sumba blends comfort and nature with a lot of eco-luxury resorts like Nihi Sumba, which is well-known for offering unforgettable family experiences, including horseback riding by the sea.
Smaller homestays also offer a local touch, where you and your kids can learn directly from the community. It’s the kind of trip that makes family holidays in Indonesia feel meaningful with an abundance of adventure activities.
Kids and parents can swim under waterfalls, walk through traditional villages, or join a weaving class with local women. For families looking to step away from the city and dive into local life, it’s an amazing destination for family holidays with an Indonesian style, making it the best hands-on experience that kids will remember.
Of course, the island’s quiet charm comes with a few trade-offs, like limited facilities, and getting around may take time. But for families who love outdoor fun and off-the-grid moments, Sumba is a unique answer to where is the best place for a family holiday in Indonesia.
5. Wakatobi
Far in the southeast of Sulawesi, Wakatobi is a hidden gem for families who love the ocean. Getting there involves a flight to Makassar, followed by a connecting flight to Wangi-Wangi Island.
The trip takes time, but what awaits is one of the most stunning marine areas in the world. Most families who come to Wakatobi stay in eco-resorts or dive lodges by the beach, which are designed for nature lovers, with snorkeling trips, boat tours, and reef walks built into your stay.
It’s a peaceful way to enjoy family holidays in Indonesia, especially for families with older children who love the sea and every day feels like a new adventure. Swim in crystal-clear water, watch dolphins, or take part in local seaweed farming tours.
The area is calm, clean, and deeply connected to nature, making Wakatobi perfect for those planning family holidays to Indonesia that focus on the ocean and sustainability. That said, it’s not ideal for babies or toddlers, as medical help and shops are limited.
But for families looking to go beyond the usual tourist spots, Wakatobi might just be the most surprising answer to where is the best place for a family holiday in Indonesia.
Final Thoughts on Family Destinations in Indonesia
Indonesia’s diversity makes it a wonderful destination for families of all kinds. When it comes to accessibility, comfort, and activities for all ages, Bali remains the top choice, offering everything from cultural experiences to beachside fun, all on one island.
Bali is also home to Mai Main Canggu, the largest and most complete indoor playground on the island, making it perfect for toddlers and young children no matter the weather. For more insights into planning a family holiday in Bali, click here to explore Mai Main Canggu.
