“Even with just one night on Pari Island, the Thousand Islands remind us that paradise is closer than we think—sunrise, coral reefs, and local warmth create memories that last forever.”

We should have left Friday morning and enjoyed a 3‑day, 2‑night vacation on Pari Island – Thousand Islands – Jakarta. However, my boss was still working until Friday afternoon, so we only had the chance for a 2‑day, 1‑night trip. Although reduced by one day, it did not diminish the joy of this holiday.

Saturday morning, we had to arrive early at Kali Adem Dock – Muara Angke in order to cross to the Thousand Islands. The boat was scheduled to depart around 06:30 am, so before that time we had to be at the dock. If we were late, we could not cross to Pari Island. Before boarding, we had breakfast around Muara Angke, where many cafeterias were already open in the morning.

Kali Adem is a new pier, operated for passenger transportation to the Thousand Islands. A fast boat carries passengers to the islands and returns to Kali Adem Dock. Before this dock was built, backpackers usually crossed to the Thousand Islands using rented fishing boats.

The journey from Kali Adem Pier to Pari Island takes about 40 minutes to 1 hour depending on the weather. If you are not used to traveling by ship, you may feel nauseous or vomit. Therefore, I suggest sitting at the back of the ship, which is calmer, because at the front the shock waves are stronger. The ticket price is Rp. 26,000.

Pari Island is one of many islands in this area already known as tourist destinations in Jakarta. While other islands such as Pramuka, Untung Jawa, Sepa, or Tidung are more famous and better developed, Pari Island is relatively new. Facilities are limited, and even banana boats are not available, giving the beach a more natural atmosphere. Pari Island has about 350 families. According to locals, the island is still in dispute, which discourages developers from investing. This has both positive and negative consequences: tourism development is slower, but residents cooperate among themselves to promote tourism. Their awareness and independence make Pari Island’s tourism truly rooted in the minds and hearts of the locals. There is nothing better than seeing people work together to improve their environment.

We arrived at Pari Island around 08:00 am because the ship’s departure was delayed. The first thing we did was find an inn for the night. Average rental rates range from Rp. 300,000 to Rp. 450,000 per night, but we were lucky to find a homestay for only Rp. 150,000. Of course, it was not as good as the Rp. 450,000 inns, but it was enough for resting overnight.

Since we had stayed up all night before leaving, we were exhausted and went straight to sleep upon arrival. We woke up around 01:30 pm to start our vacation activities. Pari Island offers several destinations: Virgin Sand Beach, Sunrise Hill, and snorkeling spots. Our first stop was Virgin Sand Beach. The beach manager charges Rp. 2,000 per person to maintain cleanliness, valid for the whole day, so you can return multiple times without paying again.

At the beach, we chatted with locals who offered to take us to a snorkeling spot. To get there, we rented a wooden paddle boat driven by residents for Rp. 40,000 per boat (maximum 4 people). We also rented snorkeling equipment for Rp. 40,000 per person.

The underwater scenery at Pari Island is stunning – well‑preserved marine life, healthy coral reefs, and many kinds of fish. With the small paddle boat, we reached several snorkeling spots easily. It was truly beautiful. The locals’ awareness of preserving marine life makes Pari Island’s underwater world remarkable. Snorkeling here was a memorable experience. Towards sunset, we finished snorkeling and returned to the island. On the way back, we watched the sunset – a breathtaking twilight with reddish‑yellow horizons and the sun’s reflection bouncing on the sea surface. For beach lovers, this moment is unforgettable, unlike the busy life in Jakarta’s metropolis.

After showering at the homestay, we had dinner with squid as the main menu, prepared by a local resident we had booked in advance. The dish was very spicy, but we ate ravenously after a full day of snorkeling. Afterwards, we rested to prepare for the sunrise the next morning at Sunrise Hill.

We woke up just as the sun was rising and rushed to find a spot to enjoy the moment. Watching the sunrise on the beach is always refreshing – the warmth of the morning sun, fresh air, and waves reflecting the rays. The Thousand Islands are truly a paradise for anyone who wants to enjoy the beauty of the archipelago. If you live in Jakarta or are visiting, I highly recommend a vacation in the Thousand Islands. Don’t miss it.

At 11:00 am we had to prepare to go home, because the boat from Pari Island Dock to Kali Adem Dock departs at 03:00 pm. One day and one night on Pari Island was really fun. Even though we were not fully satisfied, it was enough to relax from the busy life in Jakarta.

Trip Cost to Pari Island – Thousand Islands (2025)

  • Crossing Ticket (Kali Adem Dock – Pari Island): Rp 40,000 – 50,000 per person one way (return ticket required)
  • Virgin Sand Beach Admission: Rp 5,000 per person (valid for the whole day)
  • Snorkeling Equipment Rental: Rp 100,000 per person (includes life jacket, fins, and goggles)
  • Wooden Boat Rental for Snorkeling: Rp 100,000 – 150,000 per boat (fits up to 4 people)
  • Bicycle Rental Around Pari Island: Rp 30,000 per day
  • Homestay/Inn Rental: Rp 350,000 – 600,000 per night (basic homestays for groups up to 10 people; higher-end options available on Airbnb)

Notes for 2025

  • Crossing tickets have increased compared to earlier years due to fuel and operational costs.
  • Snorkeling rentals are now standardized at Rp 100,000, with optional packages (glass-bottom boat or banana boat) costing Rp 150,000 – 200,000.
  • Homestays vary widely: budget options around Rp 350,000, while better facilities (AC, Wi-Fi, private bathroom) can reach Rp 600,000 or more.
  • Food costs are not included here, but expect Rp 25,000 – 50,000 per meal at local warungs.

✅ So, for a 2‑day, 1‑night trip in 2025, a traveler should budget around Rp 600,000 – 900,000 per person, including crossing, beach admission, snorkeling, boat rental, bicycle, and homestay (excluding meals).