With their palm trees, beaches of fine, immaculate white sand, and crystal-clear sea, the tropical Banyak Islands are the stuff of dreams. This archipelago of 99 islands — most of them uninhabited — is especially popular with surfers and is attracting a growing number of travellers seeking an earthly paradise. The Banyak Islands are also home to Sumatra’s top snorkelling spots, featuring stunning underwater forests of colourful coral.