Pulau Merah Beach
A stunning white sand beach in Banyuwangi, famous for its iconic red island, challenging surf, and breathtaking sunsets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Pulau Merah Beach
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning white sand beach in Banyuwangi, famous for its iconic red island, challenging surf, and breathtaking sunsets.
"Pulau Merah Beach is stunning! A wide stretch of soft sand, turquoise waves, and the iconic green island just offshore make it picture-perfect."
🚶♀️ Walk to the Island
Cross to the iconic red island on foot during low tide for unique photos.
🏄♂️ Catch the Waves
Pulau Merah is a surfer's dream with consistent, challenging waves.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Red Island
Near the shoreline
A small, verdant hill with striking red soil, accessible by foot at low tide.
+1
Spectacular Sunset Views
Beachfront
Witness the sky ablaze with color as the sun dips below the horizon.
Surfing Paradise
Ocean
Challenging waves make it a prime spot for surfers of all levels.
+1
Relaxing on Soft Sands
Beachfront
Enjoy the wide stretch of soft, white sand and turquoise waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Budget-Friendly Beach Bliss
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk to the Island
Cross to the iconic red island on foot during low tide for unique photos.
🏄♂️ Catch the Waves
Pulau Merah is a surfer's dream with consistent, challenging waves.
🌅 Chase the Sunset
The sunsets here are legendary; don't miss this daily spectacle.
💰 Affordable Entry
Enjoy the beach for just 10k IDR per person, with free parking.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk to the Island
Cross to the iconic red island on foot during low tide for unique photos.
🏄♂️ Catch the Waves
Pulau Merah is a surfer's dream with consistent, challenging waves.
🌅 Chase the Sunset
The sunsets here are legendary; don't miss this daily spectacle.
💰 Affordable Entry
Enjoy the beach for just 10k IDR per person, with free parking.
🍜 Local Eats
Try delicious local snacks and fresh seafood from the beachside warungs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Pulau Merah Beach's stunning natural beauty, soft sands, and peaceful atmosphere, often calling it a paradise. The affordable entrance fee and local food options are highly appreciated, making it a great value destination. While some find the waves challenging, it's a major draw for surfers. +1
"Beautiful landscape, soft sand, and a peaceful atmosphere without the crowds of mass tourism. I could truly relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. The beach is clean and feels authentic, not overly commercial like many others. Don’t forget to support the local ibu-ibu by trying their products: dragonfruit sweets, steamed bananas, and delicious rujak manis."
Dian Rahmawati
"That’s an absolute paradise beach.
10 k entry is good price. Parking for free. Plenty of food and drinks available, umbrellas as well. Love it"
Mr Xy
"Red Island Beach (Pulau Merah) is stunning! 🏝️🌅 A wide stretch of soft sand, turquoise waves, and the iconic green island just offshore make it picture-perfect 📸✨. The waves are beginner-friendly, so it’s great for surfing 🏄♀️, swimming, or simply relaxing by the shore 🌊. Sunsets here are magical, painting the whole sky in warm colors 🌇💛. With local warungs serving fresh seafood and a laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy Banyuwangi’s coastal beauty 🌴🍤."
SwegGodMaster
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pulau Merah Beach is located in Pesanggaran, about 2-3 hours drive from Banyuwangi city. You can hire a car or motorbike, or join an organized tour.
Yes, parking is available and generally free of charge at Pulau Merah Beach, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car or motorbike.
Public transport options are limited and can be time-consuming. Hiring a private vehicle or joining a tour is often more practical for reaching Pulau Merah.
Many visitors opt for day trips or multi-day tours that cover several coastal attractions like Pulau Merah, Teluk Hijau, and Djawatan.
The roads leading to Pulau Merah are generally paved, but can be winding in some sections. Drive cautiously and enjoy the scenic journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Pulau Merah Beach is very affordable, typically around 10,000 IDR per person. +1
Parking at Pulau Merah Beach is usually free, adding to the overall budget-friendly experience.
No advance booking is typically required for Pulau Merah Beach. You can pay the entrance fee upon arrival.
Pulau Merah Beach is generally accessible from morning until evening, allowing visitors to enjoy the full day or catch the sunset.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but the low general entrance fee makes it accessible for most visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and exploring the iconic red island. Sunsets are a major highlight.
Yes, the beach is suitable for swimming, and the waves can be beginner-friendly for some. Always be mindful of the conditions.
Yes, during low tide, you can walk across to the small island with reddish soil. It's a unique experience and great for photos.
Late afternoon is ideal for catching the spectacular sunset, while early mornings offer a more peaceful experience.
Basic facilities such as restrooms are usually available. It's advisable to check locally for the most up-to-date information.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Several local warungs (small restaurants) line the beach, offering fresh seafood, Indonesian dishes, and local snacks like dragonfruit sweets.
Yes, you can purchase a variety of drinks and snacks from the local vendors and warungs along the beach.
While seafood is prominent, you can likely find vegetarian options like nasi goreng or mie goreng. It's best to ask the vendors directly.
Yes, you can bring your own food and enjoy a picnic on the beach. There are also plenty of affordable options from local eateries.
Don't miss trying the dragonfruit sweets, steamed bananas, and rujak manis (sweet fruit salad) from the local ibu-ibu.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic red island, the dramatic sunsets, surfers catching waves, and the expansive sandy shores offer numerous photo opportunities.
Golden hour, just before sunset, provides the most stunning light. Early morning also offers soft, beautiful light with fewer people.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the beach management before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing surfers.
Yes, especially during low tide when you can get closer. The contrast of the red soil against the blue sea is very photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the waves can be strong, designated swimming areas or calmer spots can be found. The iconic red island is also an exciting feature for kids to explore, especially during low tide. It provides a unique natural playground and a chance for some memorable family photos. Consider bringing beach toys and sunscreen for a comfortable day out.
+1🏄♂️ Surfers and Wave Enthusiasts
+1Surfboard rentals and lessons are typically available, making it easy for anyone to get in on the action. The beach's reputation as a surfing paradise is well-earned, with many travelers specifically seeking out Pulau Merah for its epic swells and vibrant surf culture. Don't miss the chance to experience the thrill of riding the waves here.
+1📸 Photographers and Sunset Chasers
Capture the iconic silhouette of the red island against the vibrant sunset, or focus on the surfers riding the waves. The soft sand and turquoise waters also provide beautiful foregrounds. Arriving early or staying late will give you the best light and fewer crowds for your shots.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology and Name of Pulau Merah
+2During low tide, fascinating rock formations become exposed around the island, including wave-cut platforms and sea caves sculpted by the powerful Indian Ocean waves. The seafloor nearby features a mix of sandy patches and volcanic rock reefs, which contribute to the excellent surfing conditions. Geologists find this area particularly interesting as it showcases the dynamic interplay between volcanic activity, coastal erosion, and sedimentation processes that have shaped this unique landscape over millennia. The red coloration is most intense during the dry season, while the rainy season brings out deeper reddish-brown tones.
This ever-changing geological palette, combined with the dramatic tides and powerful surf, makes Pulau Merah a living laboratory of coastal geology. It's a destination that is as educational as it is visually stunning, offering a glimpse into the powerful forces that shape our planet. Travelers often express awe at the natural beauty and the distinctiveness of the red soil.
Surfing at Pulau Merah: A Wave Rider's Haven
+2While the waves can be challenging, they are also considered beginner-friendly by some, especially when compared to other surf spots. This makes Pulau Merah a versatile location, attracting a range of surfers. Many visitors come specifically for the surfing opportunities, tagging friends and planning their next adventure to catch the epic swells.
+1For those new to surfing or looking to refine their technique, there are often surf schools and rental shops available near the beach. This accessibility ensures that even novice surfers can experience the joy of riding the waves at Pulau Merah. The combination of great waves, beautiful scenery, and a laid-back vibe makes it a must-visit for any surf lover.
Experiencing the Golden Hour and Sunsets
The sunsets at Pulau Merah are legendary and often described as spectacular. The vibrant colors painting the sky create a romantic and unforgettable atmosphere. It's the perfect time to relax on the soft sand, listen to the gentle waves, and soak in the natural beauty. Photographers flock to capture these moments, making it a highlight for many visitors.
+1To make the most of the sunset experience, arriving in the late afternoon is recommended. This allows ample time to find a good spot, perhaps grab a refreshing drink from a local warung, and settle in for the show. The peaceful ambiance during this time, often with fewer crowds, enhances the overall experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit