Situated on the eastern tip of Java Island and directly opposite Bali and the Bali Strait, Banyuwangi is the largest district in East Java. While many people associate Banyuwangi solely with visiting Ijen Crater, it actually boasts a variety of hidden gems that should definitely be on your vacation bucket-list! Here is our round-up of the 10 best things to do in Banyuwangi!
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Baluran National Park
Baluran National Park stretches across 25,000 hectares and is home to endangered wild bovine (banteng), peafowls and many more interesting creatures. The locals refer to this place as the ‘African van Java’ as its vast savannas and cracked dry earth is very similar to that found in Africa.
Baluran National Park has five zones: Main, Wilderness, Intensive Utilisation, Specific Utilisation and Rehabilitation. The Wilderness Zone, covering nearly 12,000 hectares, is the largest and accounts for almost half the park. On safari, you’ll witness grasslands that shift colours with the seasons – green during the wet season and golden during the dry season. The park is home to 26 species of mammals, including the Javanese mouse-deer, often seen grazing or playing in groups under the shade of the trees, as well as 155 species of birds and 44 kinds of trees and plants.
Jl. Raya Banyuwangi – Situbondo Km. 35
Pulau Merah
Known as the Red Beach, Pulau Merah has its own island with red soil and lush green vegetation, complemented by its soft sandy beach and long coastline. Easily accessible from Banyuwangi’s city centre, Pulau Merah is situated about 60km south of the city, taking approximately 2.5-hours to reach by car. Due to the lack of public transport in the area, hiring a car is recommended for visiting this stunning beach. Pulau Merah is a popular international surfing destination, having hosted many pro-surfing competitions, and also offers excellent snorkelling spots along its coral reefs.
Dusun Pancer, Desa Sumberagung, Kecamatan Pesanggaran, Kabupaten Banyuwangi, Jawa Timur
Alas Purwo National Park
The Alas Purwo National Park in East Java is the complete package – offering visitors the opportunity to explore forests, beaches, caves and even savannas! This impressive park spans 43,420 hectares and is a peaceful sanctuary for endangered animals such as the green peafowl and hosts a range of diverse plant-life, including leadwood trees. The Alas Purwo National Park is divided into four zones: Sanctuary Zone, Wilderness Zone, Intensive Use Zone and Buffer Zone. Its prime location at Java’s easternmost point provides access to many stunning beaches in the area.
Kecamatan Tegaldlimo dan Kecamatan Purwoharjo, Kabupaten Banyuwangi, Jawa Timur
Sukamade Beach
Discovered by the Dutch and situated 97km southwest of Banyuwangi, Sukamade Beach offers a peaceful escape surrounded by wilderness and plantations. It serves as the East Java Natural Resource Conservation Site for turtle protection, and their popular night tours allow visitors to observe sea turtles laying more than 100 eggs on the beach shoreline. The best time to visit is between August and October for dry weather, whilst April, November and December is better suited to those who prefer warmer temperatures.
Jawatan Benculuk
Originally known as ‘De Djawatan’, Jawatan Beculuk is nestled deep in the forest and about an hour’s drive from Central Banyuwangi. This picturesque spot is a must-visit for tourists travelling to Banyuwangi, offering a serene escape into nature. There are a few stalls for tourists to pick-up some souvenirs, and the warm weather in November and December makes it an ideal time to visit. It’s a wonderful place to unplug from the digital world, take a stroll in the woods and soak-up the breath-taking natural surroundings.
Purwosari, Benculuk, Kec. Cluring, Kabupaten Banyuwangi, Jawa Timur 68482
Watudodol Beach
Situated in the Banyuwangi Regency of East Java, Watu Dodol is a prime tourist destination. Just 14km away from Banyuwangi town, it sits in a protected area of forest, at an altitude of 10 to 50 metres above sea level. Visitors can catch a glimpse of the Bali Strait by climbing to the left of an ancient grave, which is also a popular meditation spot. The combination of hills, forests and beaches makes it an exciting place to visit with family and friends.
Gumukremuk, Ketapang, Kalipuro, Banyuwangi Regency, East Java
Teluk Hijau Beach
Teluk Hijau, also known as ‘Green Bay’, is situated in the Pesanggaran District of Sarongan Village, 90km south of Banyuwangi town. The bay boasts gorgeous white sandy beaches and an 8m high waterfall. To reach this picturesque spot, visitors can park at Rajagwesi Beach and take a scenic 2km walk to the bay. For those who prefer not to walk, there is limited parking closer to Green Bay, however the narrow roads may prove a challenge.
Dusun Krajan, Sarongan, Pesanggaran, Banyuwangi Regency, East Java 68488
Meru Betiri National Park
In Indonesia’s East Java region, Meru Betiri National Park spans an area of 580km², of which a small portion is dedicated to marine conservation. The park’s beaches serve as breeding ground for endangered turtle species, including Leatherback, Hawksbill, Green and Olive Ridley turtles. Known for offering a ‘real-jungle adventure’ visitors can encounter macaques, peacocks and various other birds within its rich fauna. For an even more immersive experience, consider joining tours such as the Ijen Blue Fire Trekking Tour or the Ijen Crater Tour.
Jalan Sriwijaya No.53, Area Hutan, Kranjingan, Sumbersari, Kabupaten Jember, Jawa Timur 68173
Sadengan Savannah
About a 2-hour drive from central Banyuwangi town, Sadengan Savannah is located on the east side of Java. This area serves as the feeding ground for the wild animals of Alas Purwo National Park, where visitors can spot wild bovine (banteng), various species of peacocks, wild bulls, jungle fowl and numerous bird species. To catch a glimpse of these impressive animals, it’s best to visit early in the morning, between 6-9am, or in the evening between 3-5pm. Both cars and motorcycles are allowed inside, however be sure to bring snacks along with you as there are no restaurants inside the 80-hectare savannah.
Mount Ijen Mountain
Our list wouldn’t be complete without including the popular Mount Ijen Mountain climb, to witness the impressive blue flames at its crater. The flames are due to a reaction caused by the combustion of sulphur coming into contact with air.
The climb to Ijen is quite demanding, but the breathtaking view from the summit is well-worth the effort! Trying to catch a glimpse of the blue flames can be challenging, as it requires an additional strenuous climb and the flames are not always visible. You’ll need to start at around midnight and arrive at the crater by early dawn, to ensure that you get the full effect of this spectacular sight! It’s recommended that you wear a mask once you reach the crater to protect you from the sulphur fumes, and hiring a guide is advisable due to the difficulty of the climb.
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That’s it for our favorite things to do in Banyuwangi! With this list in hand, you’re fully equipped to enjoy a diverse and exciting adventure in the city.
