Overview
Pulau Ai is a tiny, tranquil island in the Banda Islands with white sand beaches, excellent snorkeling and diving, and a 17th-century Dutch colonial fort. This is the place to disconnect from the modern world and experience the archetypal remote Indonesian island with nutmeg plantations and village life.
Beach · Budget Travel · Diving · History · Island
Before you go
Connectivity
WiFi and cellular data are unreliable or nonexistent. Some reports from 2025 suggest improvement, but do not depend on connectivity.
Food
All guesthouses provide three meals daily. No restaurants or alcohol vendors exist on the island.
Money
Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is used. ATMs do not exist on the island. Bring sufficient cash from Banda Neira or Ambon. Prices listed in local currency are Rp.
Safety
General safety is good on this small, tight-knit island. Standard tropical precautions apply—sun protection, ocean safety when snorkeling.
Transport
Daily public boats run between Banda Neira and Pulau Ai departing early morning from Ai, returning around 11:00-12:00. No schedule guarantees—go early.