Overview

Sukamade Beach, located deep inside Meru Betiri National Park in Banyuwangi, East Java, is one of Indonesia’s most remarkable eco‑tourism destinations. Famous for its pristine coastline and as a natural nesting site for green sea turtles, this remote beach offers travelers a rare chance to witness turtle conservation firsthand. The journey itself is an adventure, passing through plantations, rivers, and dense rainforest by 4WD vehicle, making Sukamade a true off‑the‑beaten‑path experience.

Visitors to Sukamade can enjoy unforgettable activities such as night turtle nesting observation, hatchling release at sunrise, birdwatching, camping, and exploring rare flora like the rafflesia flower. With its combination of wildlife encounters, jungle landscapes, and cultural immersion, Sukamade Beach is a must‑visit for those seeking authentic East Java eco‑adventures. This destination is ideal for travelers who value nature, conservation, and unique experiences far from the crowds.

Location & Access

Sukamade Beach lies deep inside the Meru Betiri National Park (TNMB), about 97 km southwest of Banyuwangi in East Java. It is located within Sukamade Hamlet, Barongan Village, Pesanggaran District. Reaching the beach is an adventure in itself: travelers must journey by 4WD vehicle through plantations, rivers, and dense rainforest. The route takes approximately 5–6 hours from Banyuwangi, offering glimpses of rural life and untouched jungle landscapes.

Ecotourism Highlights

Sukamade is internationally recognized as one of the best places in Indonesia for eco‑tourism and turtle conservation. Activities include:

  • Turtle Nesting Observation: At night, green turtles (and occasionally hawksbill or olive ridley turtles) come ashore to lay eggs. The nesting process can last up to 3 hours. Visitors must remain quiet and avoid lights to protect the turtles.
  • Hatchling Release: In the morning, travelers can help release baby turtles into the ocean from the semi‑natural hatchery. Watching hatchlings crawl across the sand toward the waves is a moving conservation experience.
  • Birdwatching & Wildlife Spotting: The surrounding rainforest is home to hornbills, kingfishers, and other tropical species.
  • Camping & Jungle Exploration: With its remote setting, Sukamade offers opportunities for camping, canoeing, and exploring rare flora such as the rafflesia flower.
  • Cultural Encounters: The journey passes through cocoa and rubber plantations, where visitors can learn about local livelihoods.

Turtle Conservation

Sukamade is one of Indonesia’s most important turtle nesting sites. The beach is a natural habitat for green turtles, with occasional sightings of other species. Park rangers collect eggs to incubate them safely in a semi‑natural hatchery, protecting them from predators. Tourists can actively participate in conservation by:

  • Joining guided night walks to observe nesting turtles
  • Helping release hatchlings into the sea
  • Learning about the challenges of marine conservation in East Java

Provided Facilities

Despite its remote location, Sukamade offers basic facilities to support eco‑tourism:

  • Homestay accommodation near the beach
  • Cafeteria serving simple local meals
  • Turtle egg hatchery managed by park rangers
  • Mushola (small prayer room)
  • Toilets and washrooms
  • Camping ground for outdoor stays
  • Electricity via genset and solar cells (limited power supply)

ℹ️ Things to Know Before You Go

  • Remote Location: Access requires a rugged 4WD vehicle. Roads are challenging, with river crossings and jungle tracks.
  • Limited Comforts: Facilities are basic—expect simple meals, shared bathrooms, and limited electricity.
  • Eco‑Rules: Flashlights, loud noises, and cameras with flash are prohibited during turtle nesting observation.
  • Best Time to Visit: Turtles nest year‑round, but peak season is April–August.
  • Packing Essentials: Trekking shoes, insect repellent, flashlight, snacks, personal toiletries, and cash in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).
  • Connectivity: Mobile signal is weak or unavailable. Be prepared for a digital detox.
  • Respect Nature: Follow ranger instructions carefully to ensure minimal disturbance to wildlife.

Book Your Adventure Today Embark on an unforgettable journey to witness the rare blue fire of Ijen Crater and the magical turtle nesting at Sukamade Beach. With guided treks, eco‑conservation activities, and authentic local experiences, this 3‑day East Java adventure is perfect for nature lovers and explorers. Reserve your spot now and be part of a once‑in‑a‑lifetime eco‑tour!