TIMES AUSTRALIA, BANYUWANGI – Tucked away in the pristine waters of Pancer, Desa Sumberagung, in the Pesanggaran subdistrict of Banyuwangi, Pulau Bedil has quickly become a rising star among Indonesia’s coastal destinations.

Nicknamed the Raja Ampat of Banyuwangi, this small island offers a complete travel package—from vibrant marine life to lush inland adventures—all in one breathtaking location.

A Symphony of Natural Beauty

Pulau Bedil greets its visitors with a stunning display of turquoise-to-emerald waters that shimmer under the tropical sun. Its landscape is a seamless blend of white sand beaches, coral-rich reefs, and rugged hills. One of the island’s most captivating viewpoints is Puncak Kemuning, a vantage point that offers panoramic vistas of surrounding islets and the vast blue sea, perfect for photography lovers and sunset chasers alike.

“The natural scenery here feels like a painting,” said a recent visitor from Surabaya. “You get the calm of the ocean, the thrill of snorkeling, and the taste of fresh seafood, all in one place.”

A Marine Paradise for Adventure Seekers

Pulau Bedil is a haven for marine enthusiasts. Snorkeling and diving are among the most popular activities, with clear waters that reveal a colorful underwater ecosystem teeming with coral gardens, tropical fish, and sometimes even sea turtles. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, swimming in the island’s calm lagoons offers a refreshing escape from the everyday.

Pulau Bedil has also become a favorite among eco-tourists and adventure travelers. Its untouched natural environment and relatively low footfall provide the perfect setting for outdoor exploration and nature-based learning.

Culinary Delights and Local Hospitality

After a day of exploring, visitors can enjoy the local culinary delights served fresh by small warungs (local food stalls) or pre-arranged tour packages. The combination of grilled fish, sambal, and coconut water completes the authentic island experience. Locals are warm and welcoming, often eager to share stories and traditions of life by the sea.

Government Support and Growing Tourism

Recognizing the island’s growing popularity and immense potential, the local government is taking active steps to support sustainable tourism. Banyuwangi’s Regent, Ipuk Fiestiandani Azwar Anas, emphasized this during a recent visit.

"Pulau Bedil has extraordinary potential. It offers a complete package: nature tourism, marine life, adventure, education, culinary experiences, and more. These are the kinds of eco-tourism destinations we continue to develop in Banyuwangi," Ipuk said (13/5/2025)

How to Get There

Getting to Pulau Bedil is part of the adventure. Travelers first head to Pantai Mustika, a beach located in Pancer, Desa Sumberagung. The land journey from downtown Banyuwangi to this beach takes approximately two hours. From Pantai Mustika, visitors board traditional boats that cruise through scenic coastal waters before reaching Pulau Bedil—an unforgettable journey in itself.

Whether you’re a diver, a nature lover, or a seeker of off-the-beaten-path experiences, Pulau Bedil is a must-visit. With its complete package of beauty, adventure, and culture, it is not only a jewel of Banyuwangi but also a promising icon in Indonesia’s growing eco-tourism scene. (*)