Banyuwangi in Java: what to see and how to get there

Banyuwangi is the easternmost city on the island of Java, known as the Sunrise of Java – this is where the sun first rises in the morning, casting its welcoming rays. People come here for the legendary surfing at G-Land and the night-time trek to the blue fire of the Ijen volcano.

The small town of Banyuwangi, on the eastern edge of the island of Java, is known as the link between Java and Bali. A ferry runs between the two islands from this town. In recent years, this little town has gained great popularity among travellers. The main attractions here are located near the town, in the Banyuwangi region. It occupies much of the coast of East Java, impressing with its rugged landscapes that stretch from mountain peaks to the ocean. Challenging volcanic trails and one of the most legendary surfing spots await adventure seekers.

Image by biraratulmardziyah via Pixabay

How to get to Banyuwangi

• By plane. The district has Banyuwangi International Airport (BWX), which receives flights from Jakarta and Surabaya. There may also be flights from Bali on the schedule.
• By train. Banyuwangi is connected by railway. Several trains depart daily from major cities such as Surabaya, Yogyakarta and Jakarta. Travelling by train offers scenic views and a comfortable journey. The main station in Banyuwangi is Karangasem.
• By bus. You can reach Banyuwangi by bus from various cities in Java and Bali. Buses from Surabaya run frequently and at affordable prices, although the trip can be long and tiring.
• By ferry. The Ketapang ferry terminal in Banyuwangi is the main crossing point, from which ferries frequently depart for Gilimanuk, Bali. The journey across the Bali Strait takes about 45 minutes and offers stunning views, but with the wait and boarding the trip may take longer.

Depositphotos

History and culture of the Banyuwangi region

Perhaps the most interesting places for those who love to immerse themselves in the region's authenticity are the Sunan Giri Mosque and the Banyuwangi Culture Museum. The mosque is one of the significant religious and cultural landmarks in Banyuwangi. It is named after Sunan Giri, one of the nine saints (Wali Songo) who played an important role in spreading Islam in Java. It is known for its unique architecture, which combines traditional Javanese elements and Islamic style. The walls are decorated with carvings and ornamental patterns, and the minarets are built in an unusual shape.

The Banyuwangi Culture Museum tells the story of the region's rich history and cultural heritage. It houses artefacts that reflect local customs, traditional crafts, everyday objects and art.

The Banyuwangi Ethno Carnival is an annual event. The festival lasts several days and falls on different dates. Almost 200 villages take part in the show! This event has become a symbol of revival and cultural exchange between the different districts of Banyuwangi. The carnival draws attention to traditional Javanese motifs, which are expressed in the participants' extravagant costumes. Each costume is unique and symbolises the cultural heritage and natural wealth of the village.

Depositphotos

What to visit in Banyuwangi

The district is rich in natural beauty. Banyuwangi offers national parks and volcanoes, hiking, trekking and safaris that will leave you with vivid memories.

City park

Blambangan Park is located in the centre of the city. It is a popular place for relaxation and for holding various cultural events. The park serves as an important venue for colourful city festivals. It is surrounded by greenery and equipped for active recreation, including running tracks, playgrounds and picnic areas.

Depositphotos

The Ijen volcano

We cannot talk about Banyuwangi without mentioning its most visited location – the crater of Mount Ijen, which is part of the UNESCO Global Geopark list. It is known as one of the most dangerous craters in the world, home to one of the most acidic crater lakes on Earth.

The caldera is 6 kilometres wide and 200 metres deep, and inside it an incredibly beautiful turquoise lake has formed: poisonous and acidic. Ijen is best known for its blue flames, which entice visitors to descend the crater slopes in the pre-dawn hours. The sulphur seeping through cracks and crevices burns constantly, but this is only visible in the dark. Deep in the night you can see bright blue flames zigzagging up the rocky slopes. As soon as the sun rises, incredible panoramic views of the Ijen volcanic complex and the neighbouring peaks open up.

Depositphotos

Alas Purwo National Park

This park is considered one of the oldest forests in Java and is rich in biodiversity. Visitors can explore dense jungles, untouched beaches and mystical caves. Alas Purwo is also a wonderful place for surfing, as Plengkung Beach, also known as G-Land, offers some of the best waves in Indonesia.

The huge park, covering 43,000 hectares, encompasses different climatic zones, including savannah, mangrove forests, coastal and lowland tropical forests. Alas Purwo has become home to rare animals and thousands of migratory birds, and turtles lay their eggs on its secluded beaches.

Admission is paid: from 150,000 rupiah for foreign tourists.

Baluran National Park

Known as the "Little Africa" of Indonesia, Baluran National Park resembles a savannah. Here you will find hundreds of plant species, savannahs, mangrove forests and coastal ecosystems. The park has two main stations: Bekol, located in the centre, where visitors can watch animals from a tower, and Bama, a beach area with simple accommodation.

Admission is paid: from 150,000 rupiah for foreign tourists.

Depositphotos

Meru Betiri National Park

One of the most beautiful national parks in Java. Meru Betiri covers 580 square kilometres of coastal tropical forests. The park is known as one of the last historical habitats of the Javan tiger. Rare species are also protected here, such as the Rafflesia zollingeriana flower and Javan flying squirrels. Meru Betiri includes a marine zone of 8.54 square kilometres with pristine beaches hidden behind lush green tropical forests.

Juleebrarian, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

G-Land

G-Land, or Plengkung Beach, is a world-famous surfing spot. It is located on the southern coast of Banyuwangi, on the edge of Alas Purwo National Park. The beach is known for its impressive waves, which can reach heights of up to six metres. That is why G-Land attracts surfers from all over the world who want to test their skills. The surf here is long and consistent, divided into three breaks: Kongs, the outermost break with the biggest waves, suitable for experienced surfers. Money Trees is the main break, which forms long rides along the wave. Speedies is a fast and challenging section that requires skill and precision.

The surfing season usually lasts from April to October. The surf camps in this area offer accommodation, equipment rental and organised tours for surfing enthusiasts. The surrounding waters are also suitable for diving and snorkelling.

Tabuhan Island

Tabuhan is located in the strait, between the islands of Java and Bali. In season, steady winds often blow here, suitable for kiteboarding and windsurfing. It is a paradise for water sports lovers.

Tabuhan is also interesting for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. Bright corals and a variety of marine life, including molluscs, sponges, crustaceans and marine plants, make this place popular for snorkelling. It is the perfect spot for a day trip to explore underwater wonders.

The visit is free, except for the cost of the boat transfer to the island.

Depositphotos

Red Island Beach

Red Island Beach, or Pulau Merah, is a beautiful sandy beach known for a small hill that turns red during sunset. It is a great place for surfing and enjoying the serene coastal environment. Entrance ticket: from 10,000 rupiah per person.

Depositphotos