Pulau Balai

Banyak Islands


One of two inhabited islands in the Banyaks, connected to the mainland by frequent public boats. It has no attractions of its own, but has a mellow atmosphere, friendly locals, cheap losmen and restaurants, and is useful as a transfer point.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Banyak Islands attractions

1. Pulau Lambodong

5.71 MILES

Uninhabited small island with white sandy beach, popular with day trippers from neighbouring Banyak islands.

2. Pulau Asok

5.97 MILES

A crescent-shaped, uninhabited island with pristine beaches on either side as well as excellent snorkelling.

3. Pulau Sikandang

6.67 MILES

This largish island with pristine beaches takes a couple of hours to walk around. It's one of the most popular places to stay with several guesthouses set…

4. Pulau Laman

8.5 MILES

There’s good snorkelling between Pulau Laman and Pulau Laureh, with some remarkable growths of vivid blue coral.

5. Pulau Palambak Besar

8.62 MILES

Rather out of the way, this medium-sized island is covered in coconut trees, and has a couple of jungle paths you can walk and a gorgeous stretch of beach…

6. Pulau Ragu-Ragu

11.61 MILES

Offers some excellent snorkelling. Dugongs are sometimes sighted in the mornings off the island’s north shore.

7. Pulau Tuangku

12.33 MILES

Covered in dense jungle, Pulau Tuangku is the largest of the Banyak Islands. Surfers head to Ujung Lolok, the headland at the south of the island,…

8. Pulau Tailana

12.37 MILES

The small island of Pulau Tailana is renowned for reefs that are waves of colour. The island has a popular guesthouse.