Explore the breathtaking tourist destinations in Gunung Kidul, from exotic beaches and mesmerizing waterfalls to caves and hills with stunning natural panoramas for an unforgettable holiday experience.
Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta, is renowned for its extraordinary natural beauty, including pristine white sandy beaches, exotic caves, captivating waterfalls, and scenic hills. If you’re planning to explore the wonders of Gunung Kidul, here are 10 must-visit tourist destinations!
1. Baron Beach
Baron Beach is one of Gunung Kidul’s most famous beaches, known for its unique meeting point between seawater and freshwater from an underground river.
If you’re lucky, you might witness Sedekah Laut, an annual sea offering ceremony held by local fishermen every Suro month (Javanese calendar). With well-paved roads, the beach is accessible 24/7, and the entrance fee is IDR 10,000 per person.
2. Kesirat Beach
Unlike most beaches, Kesirat Beach does not have a sandy shore but features high cliffs and lush green meadows, making it an ideal sunset-watching spot.
Located in Dusun Karang, Girikerto Village, Panggang District, this beach is popular among photographers and nature lovers. The entrance fee is very affordable at IDR 5,000 per person, and it is open 24 hours a day.
3. Pindul Cave
For a unique adventure, Pindul Cave offers cave tubing, an activity where visitors float along an underground river using inner tubes.
The cave is famous for its majestic stalactites and stalagmites, creating a breathtaking underground view. Located in Bejiharjo Village, Karangmojo District, this attraction is open from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with an entrance fee of IDR 40,000 per person.
4. Heha Sky View
Situated in the hills, Heha Sky View is a modern tourist attraction offering panoramic views of Yogyakarta city from above.
The best time to visit is late afternoon to evening to enjoy the sunset and the city’s sparkling night lights. Entrance fees range from IDR 10,000 to IDR 20,000, and visitors can try attractions like hot air balloons, love locks, and glass-floor photo spots for an additional fee.
5. Sri Gethuk Waterfall
Located in Bleberan Village, Playen District, Sri Gethuk Waterfall offers a cool natural ambiance with crystal-clear water flowing over rocky cliffs.
To reach the waterfall, visitors can walk or take a traditional raft boat for about IDR 10,000 per person. The entrance fee is IDR 15,000, and the site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
6. Pengger Pine Forest
For stunning Instagrammable photos, Pengger Pine Forest is a must-visit.
Popular photo spots include:
- Giant rattan hand sculpture
- Treehouses
- Wooden bridges with scenic backgrounds
Additionally, visitors can enjoy a stunning view of Yogyakarta’s city lights from afar. The entrance fee is only IDR 2,500 per person.
7. Indrayanti Beach
Often called “Gunung Kidul’s Kuta Beach,” Indrayanti Beach boasts pristine white sand and clear turquoise waters.
This beach enforces strict cleanliness rules, so be sure to dispose of your trash properly—otherwise, you may face a fine! The entrance fee is IDR 10,000 per person.
8. Pengilon Hill
Pengilon Hill offers a breathtaking combination of lush green hills and exotic coastal views.
This destination is perfect for those who love camping in the great outdoors with a panoramic ocean backdrop. Camping fees are around IDR 20,000 per tent, making it a favorite spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
9. Ngrawah Beach
For a hidden paradise with a serene atmosphere, Ngrawah Beach is the perfect choice.
This secluded beach remains pristine and untouched, surrounded by rocky cliffs and soft white sand. Due to its hidden location, it is less crowded than other beaches in Gunung Kidul.
It is situated between Ngrenehan Beach and Widodaren Beach, allowing visitors to explore multiple beaches in one trip.
10. Sedahan Beach
Sedahan Beach is known for its wide shoreline, soft white sand, and two giant rock formations flanking the beach.
This beach is also a nesting site for sea turtles, offering visitors a rare natural experience. Visitors can camp here, with tent rentals ranging from IDR 25,000 to IDR 200,000, while the entrance fee is only IDR 5,000 per person.
Conclusion
Gunung Kidul boasts extraordinary natural beauty, from exotic beaches and waterfalls to green hills and stunning underground caves.
With various tourism options, visitors can enjoy swimming, camping, cave tubing, or simply admiring the breathtaking landscapes.
Make sure to add these must-visit destinations to your Gunung Kidul travel itinerary!
