In Search of Pristine Beach? Try These Indonesia's Hidden Gems in Bawean Island

Only in Bawean

In Bawean, there is a protected endemic deer species, namely Axis Kuhli, of which only 400 to 600 deers are left. They are wild deers. Therefore, visitors cannot feed them without permission. They can only visit the deer reserve located inside of the valley.

Dining-wise, Bawean is one of the islands with abundant marine products, offering many seafood culinary delights, such as fresh fish and Bawean's signature green bamboo lobster. Processed culinary delights such as fish cake, fish ball, and Bawean chili sauce are also a good option.

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Uniquely, the majority of this island’s population are women because many men are working abroad such as in Singapore and Malaysia. On a daily basis, most of the Bawean people usually will leave their motorbikes unattended on the side of the road or at a parking lot with the key still hanging on the keyhole. This is because the island is far apart from other islands, making it difficult to steal motorbikes or other vehicles.

"We can leave the motorbike unattended, it is common as no one will steal it," a resident told Kompas.com in the Sangkapura Square previously.

How to get there

Tourists who want to visit Bawean Island can choose via air route or sea route. By paying 300,000 rupiahs ($21), visitors can fly from Surabaya city to Bawean island by using a twin otter plane operated by Airfast Indonesia, which can carry 12 to 18 passengers. Meanwhile, going from Gresik Port and Paciran in Lamongan regency with a speed boat or a ferry is also possible.

Since the public transportation is still minimal, visitors can bring their own or rent a motorbike  with a price range starting from 45,000 rupiahs ($3) to 60,000 rupiahs ($4). Visitors can also rent a four-wheeled vehicle, including a driver for around 550,000 rupiahs ($38).

Several important things need to be prepared for before snorkeling in the marine park. Visitors need to bring their snorkeling gear because not all the tour operators provide them. 

The lodging facilities are quite a lot, ranging from cottages, motels, to hotels with a rate of 250,000 rupiahs ($17) a night.

(Writers: Muhammad Irzal A, Luthfia Ayu Azanella, Kahfi Dirga Cahya | Editors: I Made Ashdiana, Resa Eka Ayu Sartika, Kahfi Dirga Cahya)

Sources: Kompas.com