Enjoy the natural beauty of Santolo Beach in Garut which offers spectacular views, exciting activities, and rich history.
Santolo Beach is one of the famous tourist destinations in Garut, West Java. Not only known as a beach tourist spot, but Santolo Beach is also a favorite location for families, solo travelers, and tourists from outside the area such as Bandung and Jakarta.
Located in Cikelet District, Garut Regency, this beach is indeed a magnet for tourists because it offers beautiful natural scenery, a calming atmosphere, and various interesting activities that can be done. Plus, the long history that surrounds this beach makes it even more special.
Getting to Know the History of Santolo Beach
Santolo Beach was originally known as Cilauteureun Beach. The name “Santolo” itself emerged because of the difficulty of Europeans, especially the Dutch, in pronouncing the name “Cilauteureun.” With this change in pronunciation, this beach is finally known as Santolo Beach until now.
During the Dutch colonial era, Santolo Beach was used as a pier to transport spices produced in the area to large ships in the middle of the sea.
Therefore, around the coastal area you can still find Dutch heritage buildings built around 1850.
Santolo Beach Main Attractions
Santolo Beach has extraordinary natural charm. Not only is it a gathering place for traditional fishermen and a fishing boat dock in Pameungpeuk, this beach also offers stunning beauty.
Here are some of the main attractions that make Santolo Beach a tourist choice that should not be missed.
1. Amazing Natural Views
Santolo Beach offers stunning natural views with a wide expanse of white sand. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the beach surrounded by green hills which add to the natural impression.
The distinctive waves of the southern sea also make this beach even more attractive for tourists who want to experience a different sensation. You can walk along the beach while enjoying the cool sea breeze.
2. Interesting Photo Spots
Santolo Beach has several photo spots that are very Instagrammable. One of the famous spots is in the small Santolo Island area located along the coastline.
In addition, the old bridge on Santolo Island is also one of the locations that many tourists use to take pictures.
The beautiful surrounding panorama, coupled with the waves and trees surrounding it, creates the perfect backdrop for taking photos.
3. Fishing Activities
For fishing lovers, Santolo Beach is a very suitable location. Many traditional fishermen operate around the coast, and visitors can experience the sensation of fishing directly in the middle of the sea with fishing equipment they bring themselves.
The pier around the beach is also a favorite place for fishing, where you can find a variety of sea fish that can be obtained directly from fishermen’s catches.
4. Rent a Boat to Explore
If you want to explore further from the shore, you can rent a fishing boat available at Santolo Beach.
With a rental rate of around Rp25,000, you can enjoy the sensation of being tossed by the challenging waves of the southern sea.
This boat will take you to various interesting points around the coast, including Santolo Island which is famous for its beauty.
5. The Beauty of Small Santolo Island
The small Santolo Island located not far from the main beach is another unique attraction. You can reach this small island by taking a fishing boat.
Once you arrive at the island, you will be presented with a very beautiful natural view, including the phenomenon of sea water flowing into the Cilauteureun River at high tide.
This creates a unique view, where sea water mixes with river water, creating a view that is rarely found elsewhere.
Entrance Ticket Prices and Operating Hours
The entrance ticket to Santolo Beach is very affordable, only IDR 15,000 per person. As for parking fees, visitors must pay IDR 5,000 for two-wheeled vehicles and IDR 10,000 for four-wheeled vehicles.
This beach is open 24 hours a day, so visitors can come anytime to enjoy the natural beauty of Santolo Beach.
Fun Activities at Santolo Beach
Santolo Beach offers a variety of exciting activities that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Besides enjoying the natural beauty and taking pictures, there are several other interesting activities that you can try.
1. Camping on the Beach
If you want to enjoy the atmosphere of Santolo Beach longer, you can try camping in the area provided around the beach.
Camping on the beach provides a pleasant experience, where you can enjoy the night with the sound of the waves and the cool sea breeze. You can also enjoy the beauty of the clear night sky while enjoying a campfire.
However, it should be noted that Santolo Beach does not provide camping equipment, so you must bring a tent and other equipment from home.
2. Playing Banana Boat
Banana boat is a very popular water ride on the beaches. At Santolo Beach, you can try this ride with a rental price of around Rp25,000 per person.
The sensation of playing a banana boat that is swayed by the waves will definitely provide its own excitement, especially if you come with friends or family.
3. Watching the Sunset
Santolo Beach is the perfect place to enjoy the sunset view. Its position facing west makes this beach have a very beautiful sunset view.
Many tourists come here just to enjoy the natural beauty. You can sit back and relax on the beach while enjoying the view of the sun slowly setting behind the horizon.
4. Shopping for Fresh Sea Fish
In addition to enjoying the scenery and exciting activities, Santolo Beach is also famous for its fresh sea fish market. You can buy fresh fish caught by fishermen, such as squid, shrimp, octopus, and various other types of sea fish.
The prices offered are more affordable than in traditional markets. In addition to fresh fish, you can also buy processed fish such as salted fish, fish crackers, and shrimp crackers that can be used as souvenirs.
Facilities at Santolo Beach
Santolo Beach has been equipped with various facilities that make it easier for visitors. Some of the facilities available include:
- fresh seafood, so you can enjoy seafood while enjoying the beach view.
- Parking Area: This beach provides a parking area for two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles at very affordable rates.
- Prayer Room and Public Bathroom: Facilities for praying and clean public bathrooms are available for the convenience of visitors.
- Camping Grounds: Special areas for camping that can be used to enjoy a night on the beach.
Santolo Beach in Garut offers a stunning natural tourism experience with the beauty of the southern sea, interesting activities, and adequate facilities.
From renting a boat, playing banana boat, to enjoying the beauty of the sunset, Rancabuaya Beach is a suitable place for family vacations, friends, or even solo travelers.
Coupled with affordable ticket prices, this beach is a must-visit destination when in Garut.
