How do you get in and out of the surf?

The most effortless paddle out is the channel to the left of the peak from the beach.

Regardless of your experience, reef-related injuries are not a matter of if, but when. Reef cuts and infections are a big deal…They require immediate attention to avoid countless health problems.

What is the beach like?

You’ll find a relaxed atmosphere, not too many tourists and one of the most beautiful beaches in Java.

Red Island Surf Camp

Although Red Island Surf Camp is more expensive than other accommodations in the area, it provides a super fun, relaxed vibe and a great opportunity to socialise with other surfers. Best of all, they’re located right on the beach with excellent access to the surf and offer day trips to neighbouring G-Land too. All rooms are air-conditioned with options to suit everyone, including dorms, traditional private bungalows, garden view rooms, or homestays. Best to book in advance.

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Another option is to book through Mojo Surf which utilizes Red Island Surf Camp. However, it will cost you more than booking a trip yourself. Mojo Surf caters specifically to beginners and intermediate surfers who want to learn how to surf or improve their surfing in a fun and safe environment. They also offer two or three-month surf instructor courses, visiting multiple locations throughout Indonesia. Red Island included.

Can I rent a surfboard locally?

You can rent surfboards from the surf camps in town or from lifesavers shack on the beach. So you have plenty of options if you would like to travel light.

Why is the area called Red Island?

Red Island takes its name from the large rock island extending out in front of the beach. (Pulau = island Merah = red).

Internet access at Red Island is good for those travelling and working or anyone that needs to stay connected with the online world.

Where is Red Island?

You’ll find Red Island in Banyuwangi, East Java.

How to get around?

Scooter, dirt bike or car are all your best bets.

How to get there?

How do you get in and out of the surf?

At the reef make your way out through the channel. At the beachie keep your eye out for rip currents. If you time it right, even when waves are closing out, you can ride a rip current to the outside.

Regardless of your experience, reef-related injuries are not a matter of if, but when. Reef cuts and infections are a big deal…They require immediate attention to avoid countless health problems.

What is the beach like?

Pangandaran Beach is a beautiful long stretch of dark sand leading to a protected forest peninsula. Eventually, if you head far enough out on the peninsula you’ll find a short stretch of white sand beach and a half-sunken ship. Once wanted by Interpol for illegal fishing operations, today the FK Viking is a great place to check out between sessions. You can expect families and tourists to be camped out on the beach most days but there’s still plenty of places to explore or paddle out. The beach can get very busy with local tourists particularly in front of Pangandaran town.

Is there food nearby?

There’s a plethora of cafes, restaurants, and warungs that you’ll find dotting the beach at Pangandaran. Most are moderately priced and offer fresh seafood, coffee, and produce. Pangandaran is a common tourist location for Javanese people and thus is well equipped with local food. We advise putting on your adventure shoes and seeing what you can find, you won’t regret it.

During the dry season the sand at the western end of the bay in front of the jetty, known as ‘Airports’ due to the nearby Pangandaran Airport, can get good in the mornings before the southeast trades blow onshore at this end of the beach.

On the eastside of Pangandaran Peninsula, there is a sail-shaped rock where a long-right hander known as ‘Batu Lajar’ sometimes breaks when there is plenty of swell. You’ll find it works best on a lower tide with a westerly offshore.

Where is Pangandaran?

Pangandaran is located nearly due south of Banjar in West Java.

How to get to Pangandaran?

By Plane

Step 1. The easiest route to Pangandaran is to fly into Jakarta. Then from Halim Airport in East Jakarta directly to Pangandaran Airport (CJN – Cijulang Nusawiru Airport).

Step 2. Pangandaran Airport is closer to Batu Karas than to Pangandaran which is approximately 40-minutes away by car.

How do you get in and out of the surf?

Look to the shoulder, you’ll find a small channel that you can time your paddle out in between sets but watch out for closeouts on the inside can double up on the reef. There are also a couple of breaks in the reef further up the beach if you want access to the peak from the back side or Turtle Bungalows Surf Camp. Once you’re up and surfing just be sure to kick-out before the inside closeout.

Regardless of your experience, reef-related injuries are not a matter of if, but when. Reef cuts and infections are a big deal…They require immediate attention to avoid countless health problems.

What is the beach like?

The white sand beach stretching north of the reef at ‘Turtles’ is fringed by aquamarine water and forest. While the beach is beautiful and rather typical of the west side of Java the coolest part is the turtles exiting the ocean at night to bury their eggs in the sand and the conservation department releasing hatchlings (baby turtles) into the ocean. These are protected species in Java and you can expect to see signs dictating where you can and cannot walk on the beach as the area is a designated National Park. South of Turtles is Ujung Genteng Peninsula which is also lined with beautiful beaches. In the image below is an aerial view of the Ujung Genteng Peninsula just south of Turtles which isn’t quite in the image.

Cheapest Price Range – Batu Besar Surf & Turtle Camp

At Batu Besar Surf and Turtle Camp, you can check the surf from your room overlooking Turtle’s surf break in the distance. A 5-minute walk 300 meters to the beach, this accommodation is made up of three separate buildings established for single travelers, groups, couples, and families. Guests have access to the kitchen, bar, and common areas surrounded by tropical rainforests and rice paddy fields. Rates include three meals per day as you won’t find the beach-side warungs found in Bali in this area of Java. For a bit of extra cash, you’ll have air-conditioned rooms to complement the warm easterly breeze outside.

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Cheapest Price Range – Jungle Feet Surf Camp

The Jungle Feet Surf Camp has two accommodation buildings they call shacks with six rooms available. Three with double beds and three with twin beds. The first accommodation building is the closest accommodation you can get to the surf, located on the beach in front of Turtles. The second accommodation building is set back 100 meters from the beach. Jungle Feet Surf Camp also has a bar and viewing area where you can kick back with a cold beer and watch the surf and sunset.

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Affordable Price Range – Turtles Bungalows 

Turtles Bungalows is a step up in luxury and comfort in comparison to the other options in the area. Located beachfront just 150 meters down the beach from the waves at Turtles, the accommodation features a pool and spacious wooden cabins with private bathrooms. In addition, Turtles Bungalows offers guided scooter or boat rides to other breaks in the area. Expect friendly staff, good surf, great food, comfortable rooms, and an all-around great surf trip.

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How do the southeast trade winds affect turtles in the dry season?

When the southeast wind is light the wave will ripple and still provide fun conditions. If the southeast trade wind becomes moderate as it often does around 10.00 a.m. to late afternoon you’ll find the waves at Turtles blown out. Your best bet is to aim for the glassy morning and evening sessions.

Are there other waves close by?

Just south of Turtles are a couple of commonly surfed spots such as Mama’s, another fun left, in front of Mama’s Losmen, and Ujung Genteng Harbour further south. Befriend some of the locals and you may be able to access several other waves that rarely get surfed around Ujung Genteng Peninsula. Check out the image above the accommodation section. There is also a beach break next to Turtles heading north while the big wave spot Ombak Tujuh is within 30 minutes further north by scooter or boat. You may also find more wave options even further north again if you’re keen to get on the search!

Can I see the turtle conservation activities?

Visitors can see all of the conservation activities for a small fee. The conservation program collects eggs that are laid by returning turtles, incubates them and then releases the hatchlings at night as the sun sets. Mother turtles appear most evenings, during the first half of the night, with up to 50 mother turtles on some nights. When releasing the hatchlings, conservation rangers draw a line in the sand for visitors to stay behind and then release the hatchlings onto the shore giving them the best chance of survival. Unfortunately, only approximately two per cent make it to adulthood due to predators or fishermen’s nets. After the hatchlings are released you can wait at the conservation centre for the mother turtles to arrive. When a turtle is about to lay, you will be led by a conservation ranger to the nesting site.

Regardless of where you stay, or where you’re travelling, be sure to keep a good hold of your belongings as travellers have reported theft in the past.

Where is Turtles?

Turtles is located in West Java almost three hours drive south of Cimaja.

How to get to Turtles?

From Soekarno–Hatta International Airport (CGK) in Jakarta, Indonesia’s capital city, expect the journey to last about 6-8 hours by car depending on how heavy the traffic is through the toll road in Jakarta. Through your accommodation, you can organise a driver to pick you up from the airport for IDR 1,200,000 one way which includes the tolls. You can find specific shuttles to Ujung Genteng which are a cheaper option, however, these often take much longer, sometimes nine plus hours.

What are the beaches like at Pacitan?

Reminiscent of something from Jurassic Park, this part of East Java is known for beautiful stretches of sand beaches fringed with lush tropical hillsides and the occasional cave. All in all, Pacitan and Watu Karung are nice spots to chill out and enjoy Java. (Pacitan pictured below).

Cheapest Price Range – Harry’s Ocean House Pacitan

Harry’s Ocean House is a basic homestay set-up with easy access to the beach in Pacitan. The hosts are extremely friendly and helpful and love to host surfers travelling to the area. Great for the budget-conscious surfer looking for something a little different with a shared kitchen equipped with a fridge, a stovetop, and a toaster. in a chilled Also benefit from free WiFi, a shared lounge, a garden and a terrace in a super friendly atmosphere.

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Cheapest Price Range – Harry’s Ocean House 2 Pacitan

Just a few hundred metres down the road from Harry’s Ocean House is Harry’s Ocean House 2. Same owners and on the same street Harry’s second accommodation offers very much the same as the first accommodation. Clean and comfortable rooms with a shared kitchen equipped with a fridge, a stovetop, and a toaster. Free WiFi, a shared lounge, a garden and terrace.

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Cheapest Price Range – La Calypso Guesthouse

La Calypso Guesthouse is another great accommodation option with shared facilities such as a nice kitchen, dining area and more. One of the closest if not the closest accommodations to Pancer Door surf spot, you can hit the surf in a matter of minutes on foot. As with the other hosts on this list, La Calypso’s hosts are also super friendly and pride themselves on providing a great experience for all guests. As you can probably tell by now the Pacitan locals are superb hosts. Hit the link below to find out more.

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Cheapest Price Range – Villa Hembers Surf Camp

Villa Hembers Surf Camp provides traditionally built standalone timber bungalows within walking distance to Pancer Beach. The hosts provide a fun and friendly atmosphere for all guests with raving reviews. You’ll also benefit from communal areas such as a dining area and a kitchen equipped with a fridge. If you’re looking for a cool vibe and chill spot to rest your head then Villa Hembers is another great option to check out.

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Cheapest Price Range – Watukarung Harry’s Ocean House Homestay

Harry’s Ocean House in Watu Karung are the same owners that provide two other great homestays in Pacitan. One of the first homestays in the area, Harry’s provides all the basics you need to enjoy a surf trip to Watu Karung. While most homestays are located within 100 metres of the beach, Harry’s is beachfront! With friendly staff knowledgeable about local surf breaks it is perfect for the low maintenance surfer looking to surf as much as possible.

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Affordable Price Range – Watukarung Sackstone Guesthouse

At Watukarung Sackstone Guesthouse expect something similar to a small hotel with great facilities approximately 100 metres away from the beach and barrels at Watu Karung. Rooms are clean, spacious and equipped with air conditioning and a private bathroom. There is a restaurant on-site and also a shared kitchen, lounge and free WiFi. Find out more in the link below.

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Mid Price Range – Desa Limasan Retreat

Beachfront with a pool and immediate access to the surf in Watu Karung, Desa Limasan Retreat offers modern comfort in traditional Javanese houses. Free WiFi is available in all areas and private parking is available on-site. Enjoy king-size beds, air-conditioned rooms, private bathroom, seating and a dining area within your own spacious home. Some units feature a terrace or patio with sea views. And some also have a kitchenette, however, their on-site restaurant will keep your stomach full and happy!

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Mid Price Range – Istana Ombak

Located directly on the beach at Watu Karung, you’re not likely to find a more luxurious, comfortable, and relaxing place to crash during your time in Pacitan. Istana Ombak offers package deals for single travellers, couples, and families looking to surf, explore, and relax in this part of East Java. Some of the perks include airport pick-up, beachside pools with a perfect view of Watu Karung rights and lefts, a full bar, and a step-up in creature comforts such as privacy and aesthetic architecture. A great place for couples, families, and single surfers looking to score at Pacitan.

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What surfing level is required for the area?

Pacitan suits all levels while Watu Karung is for advanced surfers only.

Regardless of your experience, reef-related injuries are not a matter of if, but when. Reef cuts and infections are a big deal…They require immediate attention to avoid countless health problems.

How to get around?

You can get around relatively easily by car when travelling long distance but as is true in most parts of Indonesia, hiring a scooter for shorter distances will help you steer clear of any traffic and gives you greater access to some of the remote areas.

Is there food nearby?

Most accommodations are outfitted with a restaurant. Expect fresh seafood, chicken, and local/seasonal fruit and veg. There are other cafes and warung style bars/restaurants you can find in town if you’re willing to take a few steps off the beach.

Where is Pacitan?

Pacitan is located on the Southern Edge of East Java in the region of Yogyakarta.

How to get to Pacitan?

The best way to get to Pacitan from the likes of Bali is a one hour flight to Yogyakarta Airport (JOG) in East Java. From there it is approximately three hours drive to Pacitan.

Alternatively you can also fly into Semarang (four hour drive to Pacitan) or Surabaya (five hour drive to Pacitan).

Most Common hazards

Legit big waves, heavy situations, strong currents, hold downs, being dragged long distances underwater, rock and reef are all major factors that you need to be able to handle here. You’re a long way from any hospitals so make sure you’re fully prepared. On another note there are no crowds – which is the least of your worries, it is uncrowded for a reason.

Regardless of your experience, reef-related injuries are not a matter of if, but when. Reef cuts and infections are a big deal…They require immediate attention to avoid countless health problems.

How do you get in and out of the surf at Ombak Tujuh?

The best way to access Ombak Tujuh is by boat and paddling in from the outside. This is partially due to the fact that the break is so remote. There is a channel, but depending on wave size and swell direction, the channel might be washed out.

What is the beach like?

Seven Wave Beach is a long stretch of white sand framed by tropical forest, tidepools, rock shelves, and a nearby waterfall. Because this area is objectively tough to access by land, you can expect there to be few crowds on the beach. A great place to explore when you’re not in the line-up.

What else do I need to know?

The neighbouring beach village of Pengumbahan is well known for sea turtle nesting. In the 80’s and ’90s, an Indonesian company harvested the eggs for consumption. Today, this is a common area for viewing turtle nests at night or volunteering for conservation.

Where is Ombak Tujuh?

Located on the western rim of a large stretch of rainforest, Ombak Tujuh is nearly due north of Ujung Genteng on a peninsula southwest of Sukabumi. Secluded from the rest of West Java’s more populated corners.

How to get to Ombak Tujuh?

There is no official access to Ombak Tujuh by road, although you can access Seven Wave beach through the jungle by scooter. However, it is best to get there by boat.

How do you get in and out of the surf at Grajagan?

Paddle out through the keyhole near the top of the reef below Kongs. Take your time walking out over the reef and be very careful to not step on any sea urchins or you might cut your surf very short. Take just as much time coming in over the reef as well. The reef at Grajagan will become your worst nightmare at any chance it can get!

Surfing on the high tide is a great idea for the first few sessions until you become familiar with the reef at G-Land. The higher tide is a lot easier to come back in to shore over the reef. In remote surf breaks like this, you are always better to be safe than sorry, in other words, be smart about the decisions you make.

Regardless of your experience, reef-related injuries are not a matter of if, but when. Reef cuts and infections are a big deal…They require immediate attention to avoid countless health problems.

What is the beach like?

The beach at Grajagan Bay is a pristine section of white sand beach fringed by lush jungle. In the 70’s you would likely find large predators stalking the forest for prey such as tigers or panthers. While these are less common today, you can still see amazing wildlife in the neighbouring jungle. A perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of Java and neighbouring Bali, the beaches will give you a taste of the wilderness this part of the world is known for, especially at night when the jungle can be louder than a city!

Mid Price Range – Jack’s Surf Camp

Jack’s Surf Camp is conveniently located in front of the keyhole near the top of the reef below Kongs where you paddle out. Their ocean view restaurant and range of activities from fishing to off-road adventures and more keep you happy in between barrels. Jack’s offers three packages for guests to choose from (Budget, Standard or Bungalow) which include the fast boat round trip from Bali to G Land.

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Luxury Price Range – Bobby’s Surf Camp

Bobby’s Surf Camp was the first accommodation to be constructed at G-Land more than 30 years ago by two brothers (Mike and Bill Boyum – who were some of the first to surf G Land) along with a Balinese friend Nyoman ‘Bobby’ Radiasa. Owned and operated by Bobby this seamlessly run camp provides an unforgettable adventure to surfers on the search offering three packages for guests to choose from (Standard, Delux or Superior) which include the fast boat round trip from Bali to G Land.

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Luxury Price Range – Yoyo’s Surf Camp

Yoyo’s Surf Camp operates from March to November and is located directly in front of the famous barreling section of Grajagan reef known as Speedies. Yoyo’s provide bungalow style accommodation with a large communal area known as the central relaxation house with internet, pool tables, tables tennis, yoga hall and more to keep you entertained in between surfs. Yoyo’s offers four packages for guests to choose from (Standard, Delux, Superior or VIP) which include the fast boat round trip from Bali to G Land.

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Who discovered G-Land?

The famous lefts of G-Land were first surfed in 1972. On a flight to Bali, Bob Laverty saw long lefts breaking along the reef while looking out the window. and organised a voyage to scope it out soon after. Together Bob Laverty and Bill Boyum were the first to surf what was referred to as “the ultimate left” and now more commonly “G-Land”.

Where is G-Land?

G-Land is located on the southern tip of the island of Java. At the far end of a peninsula extending westward into the Indian Ocean from one of Java’s largest ecological preserve, Taman Nasional Alas Purwo, G-Land is nestled into one of Java’s last surviving tropical forests.

How to get to G-Land from Bali?

There are two ways to access G-Land.

Most Common hazards

Cimaja: Water quality after heavy rains, sharp shallow rocks and the occasional shark. Crowds can be heavy so use good etiquette and avoid any hassles.

Indicators: Knee deep barnacles, urchins and a patchy shallow reef.

Loji: Pollution from nearby river mouth feed by a large river. Sharks, urchins rips and deflated surf checks.

Regardless of your experience, reef-related injuries are not a matter of if, but when. Reef cuts and infections are a big deal…They require immediate attention to avoid countless health problems.

How do you get in and out of the surf?

Take the channel near the river mouth and work your way towards the peak. You can also take the long trek towards the peak along the boulders and try paddling in from the backside but expect shallow rocks so watch your fins. If your making the walk along the boulders on the beach bring some booties for a bit of extra grip (especially if you are not a rock hopping pro).

What is the beach like?

Considering it’s close proximity to Jakarta, Cimaja tends to attract local crowds, especially on weekends. That being said, the beach is a mix of cobbles and boulders that eventually leads into sand down the end of the point. There are a number of bamboo and palm tree thatched shade structures built up along the point by the local community for people to kick back in and enjoy the view and surfing.

Cheapest Price Range – Chill House Cimaja

Chill House Cimaja is budget surf accommodation just a ten-minute walk to the surf at Cimaja Point. The house and cottage provide three bedrooms, a shared kitchen, a large backyard, hammocks, a gazebo, and a pizza oven. If you are looking for something more expensive and beachfront in the area with immediate access to waves check out our other recommendations.

→ ENQUIRE HERE

Affordable Price Range – Cimaja Square Hotel & Restaurant

A 3-minute walk from the beach, Cimaja Square is located on the outskirts of the sleepy town of Cimaja. Expect private bungalows constructed of natural materials surrounded by rice paddies and coconut palms. Rooms are simple, clean, and quiet, great for an evening of relaxation after a full day of surfing. Expect peace, quiet, and easy access to surf. Oh, and they have great pizza too!

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Mid Price Range – Cimaja Beach Club

Cimaja Beach Club is a family-run, beachfront resort in between the surf spots Indicators and Cimaja Point just 15 minutes from Pelabuhan Ratu. CBC is a fully licensed hotel and restaurant with over ten local staff which service six stylish bungalows catering for surfers and non-surfers for short or long stays. Enjoy the peace and tranquillity of this little beachside resort surrounded by rice paddies and the ocean.

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Is there food nearby?

There are an abundance of restaurants in the area for a quiet surfing and farming village. Expect fresh seafood just about anywhere you go. About a 7 minute walk from the beach is Bakso Klangenan, known for incredible dumplings with a wide variety of fillings. There’s plenty of places to choose from if you’re sick of chilling in your accommodation so get out and explore!

Where is Cimaja?

Cimaja is a small village in the West Javan regency of Sukabumi. About 8 km, or a 15 minute drive, west of Pelabuhan Ratu.

How to get to Cimaja from Jakarta?

The easiest way to get to Cimaja from Jakarta is to organise transport through your accommodation in Cimaja. It’s the most stress free and convenient approach to get you to Cimaja hassle free.

How to paddle out into the surf at Batu Karas Point?

When surfing at BK Point you have 2 options to paddle out.

Option 1: You can walk around to the top of the point (see the image at the top of the page), jump off the rocks out back and make the short paddle into the lineup. Just be sure that you don’t snake surfers waiting for the next set in the line-up out back.

Option 2: Or you can take the safest option and paddle out through the channel from the beach. Then paddle your way up the point left of the waves breaking down the point. This also gives you the chance to scope out the waves and see what the conditions are doing as you make your way out the back or to the section of Batu Karas Point that you want to surf. If you aren’t the best paddler a little tip is to paddle extra wide of the surf in the channel where the current is at its weakest.

How to paddle out into the surf at Batu Karas Reef?

When surfing at The Reef (Karang) you can pick a channel either side of the reef and paddle out into the line-up.

How to paddle out into the surf at Bulak Bendak?

You’ll be paddling in and out from deeper water via boat access and won’t struggle to find the peak. To arrange a surf boat talk to your accommodation or some friendly locals in Batu Karas.

How to paddle out into the surf at Bulak Bendak?

You’ll be paddling in and out from deeper water via boat access and won’t struggle to find the peak. To arrange a surf boat talk to your accommodation or some friendly locals in Batu Karas.

Regardless of your experience, reef-related injuries are not a matter of if, but when. Reef cuts and infections are a big deal…They require immediate attention to avoid countless health problems.

What is the beach like?

The long stretch of black sand beach at Batu Karas is one of the many attractions to the area for non-surfer or beginner surfers. Expect black sand beach, relaxed fun vibe and local warungs populated with cocktails and plenty of snacks.

Affordable Price Range – Villa Monyet

Located on the beach directly in front of the reef break Karang and a 10-minute walk down the beach to The Point at Batu Karas. Villa Monyet is a popular place for surfers to stay. Made up of seven rooms, each with a different vibe, they also have a restaurant called the Jungle kitchen which is open to the public and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The restaurant area is a great spot for villa guests to hang out and socialise. Every Friday night Villa Monyet has a bbq and unplugged music. All-round an ultra chill atmosphere and good vibes.

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Affordable Price Range – JavaCove Beach Hotel

There are plenty of hotel options right on the point such as JavaCove Beach Hotel located across the road from the tree-lined beach bordered by jungle-covered headlands. Just steps from the beach and the closest hotel to The Point at Batu Karas. They have 13 rooms in their two-storey hotel established for surfers and travellers who want to stay in comfort and style at a remote beach location. 

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Affordable Price Range – RNV Family Guesthouse

RNV Family Guesthouse is an eco-friendly resort located on the edge of the jungle at Batu Karas, but within walking distance to the beach. Run by a French family who fell in love with Batu Karas the accommodation consists of traditional style bungalows with open-air “Bali like” bathrooms. All bungalows are nestled around the swimming pool in the tropical lush green garden. Breakfast is served every morning at the restaurant, where you can also have a chill with a beer or cup of tea after a surf. Maximum occupancy is 12 people at a time and a fast wifi connection is provided also. RNV can supply scooters and local guides for surf trips to less known surf spots.

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Luxury Price Range – The Beach House 

Discover Batu Karas in luxury from your own self-contained villa. Family-friendly and centrally located on the beachfront at Batu Karas. The Beach House aims to provide a unique luxury experience unsurpassed in the area. Step directly out onto the beach or relax and enjoy the atmosphere this villa has to offer. Make the most of the best surf breaks in the areas which literally only steps away from where you’ll rest your head. You’ll also have on-call Villa Management to assist with all your requirements to ensure you have the best stay possible in Batu Karas.

→ GET THE LATEST PRICES HERE

What is the food like in Batu Karas?

Most accommodations will offer a wide variety of cuisines from warung style grinds to Western and European favourites. Walking around the community surrounding Batu Karas you’ll find a few cafes and restaurants looking to serve hungry surfers. Bayview Seafood offers fresh and local seafood dishes, as the name would imply, and Kang Ayi Resto, just steps from Batu Karas, offers traditional Javanese dishes in a family-style environment. Take a walk through the town and you’re sure to discover something worth tasting.

One hour east of Batu Karas is Pangandaran where you will find a long stretch of beach breaks similar to Kuta Beach in Bali – exposed to open ocean swells they’re rarely flat.

There are multiple airports in the region so double-check the flights you book and the airport you fly into so you know how long the drive to Batu Karas is going to take you. Regular flights with Susi Air from Halim Perdana Kusumah Airport (HLP), Jakarta fly to Cijulang Nusawiru Airport (CJN) in Pangandaran (30 minutes drive to Batu Karas) and Tunggul Wulung Airport (CXP), Cilcap (three hours drive to Batu Karas).

Where is Batu Karas?

Batu Karas is located just west of Central Java nearly due south of Java’s larger city of Tasikmalaya.

How to get around?

As is true for much of Java, once you have travelled to your destination it’s never a bad idea to jump onboard a scooter, motorbike or dirt bike. Scooters and other two-wheeled vehicles come in handy when travelling on bumpy roads.

Is there parking fees?

There’s not much around beyond surfing in this part of West Java so I would encourage finding a place to crash close to the surf where parking is free. As goes for most of Indonesia when there are parking fees they are usually an extremely small amount and what is collected goes towards the local village.

How to get to Batu Karas?