One of Timor Leste’s two islands (with Atauro Island), Jaco is an uninhabited, 10km2 island about 700m off the eastern end of mainland Timor-Leste, home to beautifully clear waters off a white sand beach.

There isn’t really anything on the island, other than an impressive set of whale bones to the south of where the boats land, and a thick bush interior with no paths, but it is a quiet and relaxing place.

Just off shore are several patches of coral, though less diverse or life filled than those around Atauro Island, and with stronger currents. It isn’t possible to hire snorkel gear locally so bring it with you. There are a surprising number of deer, given that there is no reliable fresh water supply on the island. It is an important site for birds, including rare birds such as the great cuckoo dove and the orpheus fathead. Jaco Island is considered sacred by Timorese and staying overnight is not allowed, but it is a popular place to visit for a few hours.

Jaco Island is reached by small boat from the southern end of Valu Beach (where there is accommodation), which costs $10 per person for a return trip. Pay on your return. The channel between Valu Beach and Jaco Island may look swimmable, but the currents are very strong. The crossing can be rough and life jackets may be advisable (though not available locally). It is best to visit in the morning when the sea tends to be calmer. Let the boat operators know how long you want to be on the island (a couple of hours is usual), and they’ll come pick you up, though timings may be approximate.

There have been no publicised fatalities from crocodiles at Jaco Island but a number of near misses have happened, so enter the water at your own risk.

Even here there is plastic waste that is washed up by the tides, and rubbish left on the beach by visitors.

There are good views from Jaco Island back toward the mainland, with the cliffs of Tutuala in the distance.

Jaco Island is one of the most publicised tourism places in Timor-Leste, but a return journey from Dili involves 12-16 hours of driving on often rough roads, doable in 2 days, better over 3-4 days with stops in Baucau and Com. That is a long way to travel to a beach!