Banyuwangi never runs out of natural tourist destinations. From mountains and forests to exotic beaches, it has it all. One of the most iconic spots is Red Island (Pulau Merah), a beach with reddish sand, waves that attract surfers, and an extraordinary sunset view. I recently visited this place, and I can’t wait to share this exciting experience with you!
Journey to Red Island
Red Island is located in Pesanggaran District, about 70 km from downtown Banyuwangi. If you drive, it takes about 2–3 hours, depending on road conditions. The route is quite simple: from Banyuwangi, head towards Srono, then to Kesilir, and finally reach Red Island Beach.
If you’re taking public transportation, you can hop on a bus from Banyuwangi Terminal to Pesanggaran, then take an ojek (motorcycle taxi) or an angkot (minibus) to the beach. The fare is around IDR 50,000 – IDR 70,000, depending on your choice of transport.
Estimated Costs
Visiting Red Island won’t break the bank! Here are some estimated costs:
- Entrance ticket: IDR 10,000 per person
- Motorbike parking: IDR 5,000
- Car parking: IDR 10,000
- Surfboard rental: Starting from IDR 50,000
- Accommodation near the beach: Starting from IDR 150,000 per night
- Meals at local food stalls: IDR 15,000 – IDR 30,000 per portion
The Allure of Red Island
As soon as I arrived at the beach, I was mesmerized by the view. The reddish-white sand stretched far and wide, blending beautifully with the clear blue sea. The name “Red Island” comes from a small reddish hill in the middle of the ocean, which can be visited when the tide is low.
The waves are quite big, making it a favorite spot for surfers—both locals and foreigners. Since I’m not a surfer, I just enjoyed the view from the shore while playing in the water.
As the afternoon approached, the atmosphere became even more magical. The sunset at Red Island is one of the best I’ve ever seen! The sky turned into shades of orange and red, creating a stunning silhouette of the small island in the sea. It felt truly peaceful.
Tips & Tricks for Visiting Red Island
If you’re planning a trip to Red Island, here are some tips to make your visit more enjoyable:
- Come in the afternoon – If you want to catch the sunset, the best time to arrive is around 3 PM so you have enough time to explore before sundown.
- Bring sunscreen & a hat – The sun can be quite intense here, so protect your skin.
- Carry cash – Some local food stalls and rental services still rely on cash transactions.
- Don’t miss the seafood! – Many small restaurants offer fresh seafood dishes at affordable prices.
- Keep the beach clean – Always bring a plastic bag for your trash and never litter!
Red Island is truly a must-visit destination in Banyuwangi. The perfect blend of natural beauty, challenging waves, and a relaxing atmosphere makes it ideal for anyone—whether you’re looking for a chill vacation or an adventurous getaway. So, when are you planning to visit Red Island?
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