Banyuwangi: De Djawatan, Green, and Red Island Day Trip

Exploring Banyuwangi’s coastline and forests in a single day sounds ambitious, but this tour pulls it off beautifully. With a well-organized itinerary, expert guides, and stunning natural sights, it promises an authentic taste of Indonesia’s eastern coast. While the day packs in a lot—from lush forests to pristine beaches—you’ll want to be prepared for some moderate walking and a busy schedule.

What stands out most are the magical De Djawatan forest, the serene waters of Green Island, and the dramatic Red Island coastline. Plus, the tour includes local food experiences and plenty of opportunities for photos. That said, the boat rides and walking portions might be tiring for some, so pacing yourself is key. This trip is best suited for active travelers who love nature, photography, and discovering hidden gems, but it’s accessible for most fitness levels.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience covering forest, islands, and beaches in one day
• Expert local guides enhance the journey with stories and photos
• Balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural insights
• Good value considering transportation, entrance fees, and meals included
• Moderate walking at De Djawatan and Red Island, suited for most travelers
• Great for photo enthusiasts and eco-travelers seeking authentic scenery

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Full Breakdown of the Banyuwangi Day Trip

Starting Point: Comfort and Convenience

The tour begins with a pickup from your Banyuwangi accommodation, with options for airport, train station, or ferry pickup. The guides are friendly and professional, arriving in clearly marked vehicles, calling out your name, and helping with luggage if needed. The convenience of door-to-door pickup makes the experience stress-free, especially after a long journey.

De Djawatan Forest: A Fairytale Woodland

Your first stop is De Djawatan, often called the Fangorn Forest of Indonesia. This enchanted woodland is filled with towering trembesi trees draped in vines and moss, creating a scene straight out of a fantasy novel. The guided walk lasts around 1.5 hours, giving ample time to soak in the views, snap photos, and listen to stories about the forest’s biodiversity and history.

Many reviews praise the guide’s storytelling—”Dedic spoke very good English, was very flexible, and suggested alternative solutions when access was limited due to a festival.” This flexibility is crucial, as weather or local events can sometimes alter plans. The walking can be moderate, but the cool shade and lush scenery make it an enjoyable experience rather than a slog.

Midday: Tasty Local Food and Rest

After exploring the forest, you’ll stop at Pantai Mustika Pancer for a well-deserved break. Here, a hearty local lunch awaits, often with traditional dishes prepared by local families, as one reviewer shared: “The meal in Dedic’s family was friendly and good.” The food offers a taste of Javanese hospitality, adding a cultural layer to your day.

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Iconic Green Island: Calm Waters and Underwater Beauty

Post-lunch, you’ll hop on a speedboat for about 15 minutes to Green Island. Known for its turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, this spot offers a peaceful retreat from the busy tourist trail. Visitors often mention how quiet and almost private the island feels, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or snorkeling—if gear is available or you bring your own.

One reviewer emphasized the stunning scenery, describing the boat landing as “a landing on a desert island in a dream.” The underwater coral reefs here are often praised, making it a hit for photographers and marine life lovers alike. Expect about 1.5 hours exploring, relaxing, and capturing the moment.

Bedil Island: Serenity and Coral Views

Next, the tour takes you to Pulau Bedil, a smaller island with calm, coral-rich waters. It’s perfect for a quick swim or snapping beach photos in a quiet setting. The reviews highlight its peaceful vibe, with some noting it as a “beautiful, quiet spot to soak in coastal serenity.”

Here, you might find yourself surrounded by vibrant marine life and coral formations, making it a highlight for snorkelers and underwater photographers.

Wedi Ireng Beach: A Surprising Contrast

The journey then continues to Wedi Ireng Beach, famous for its contrasting black-and-white sands. It’s a relatively hidden gem, often free of crowds. Visitors enjoy wandering along the shoreline, taking pictures of the dramatic terrain, and soaking in the lush surroundings. The quiet, untouched nature of this beach offers a calming pause before heading to the day’s finale.

Red Island: Sunset and Surfing Bliss

Your final stop is Red Island, renowned for its striking red-hued hill that rises from the sea. The wide sandy beach here is perfect for watching the sunset, surfing, or just relaxing with the sound of rolling waves. Many reviews mention how magical the sunset views are—“the perfect way to end a busy day.”

Visitors are free to enjoy the beach, take scenic photos, or watch local surfers catching waves. The relaxed atmosphere combined with a stunning landscape makes it a memorable closing to your adventure.

Dinner and Reflection

As the day winds down, a generous dinner is served on Red Island, often featuring local seafood and traditional dishes. It’s a lovely way to reflect on the day’s sights and experiences, with many reviewers highlighting the quality of the meal and the friendly guides. Dedic, the guide, is often praised for his attentiveness and storytelling, making the tour feel personal and engaging.

Transportation and Logistics

Throughout the day, transportation is smooth and well-coordinated. The included speedboat rides are quick, offering scenic views of the coastline from the water. The tour is designed for all ages and most fitness levels, though some walking at De Djawatan and Red Island involves moderate effort. The entire trip lasts about a day, with pickups arranged within Banyuwangi.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Considering the entrance fees, boat rides, meals, and guided expertise included, the overall value is impressive. The tour balances active exploration with downtime, so you get both adventure and relaxation. For travelers keen on exploring Indonesia’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning every detail, this guided package is a practical choice.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, photography buffs, and those seeking a taste of authentic Indonesian coastal life. It’s particularly appealing for travelers wanting a balanced mix of jungle, island time, and beach relaxation—all within a manageable schedule. The knowledgeable guides and local food experiences add depth, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

However, expect some walking and boat rides, so it’s best for those in good health and comfortable with moderate physical activity. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate curated, meaningful adventures rather than overly commercialized excursions.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s designed for all ages, but moderate walking at De Djawatan and Red Island should be considered. It’s not wheelchair accessible, so mobility limitations might affect some travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes, sun protection like hats and sunscreen, swimwear, and a power bank to keep your devices charged for photos.

How long is the boat ride to Green Island?
The boat ride to Green Island lasts about 15 minutes, providing a scenic crossing to a peaceful island setting.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes a traditional lunch and dinner, often served in local family homes or on the beach, offering authentic flavors.

What’s the best time to go?
The itinerary may shift slightly due to weather, so consider planning during dry seasons. Sunset at Red Island is a highlight, so timing your tour accordingly will maximize this experience.

Is there any flexibility in the itinerary?
Yes, guides are known for their flexibility, and the tour can adapt if certain sites are inaccessible or weather conditions change.

This Banyuwangi tour strikes a fine balance between adventure and relaxation, offering a well-rounded glimpse of Indonesia’s natural scenery. Whether you’re snapping photos, relaxing on quiet beaches, or soaking in local culture, it’s a day packed with authentic experiences that leave you with plenty of memories—and a desire to return for more.

You can check availability for your dates here: