Things To Do in Pangandaran

Many people go to Pangandaran simply to relax; however, for those who relax by doing something there are plenty of things to do.

To begin with, a number of small industries are located in Pangandaran itself, including a wayang golek puppet carver near the village center. Take a becak or rent a bicycle and explore the very local village center of Pangandaran, which is just outside the perimeter of tourist area.

Pangandaran’s foremost attraction, however, is the beach. The east beach is not as good for swimming and rather serves the fishermen’s needs, while the west beach is quite popular for walking, swimming and hanging out. Be forewarned, though, that dangerous currents and undertows are frequent and cost several lives every year. The safest place to swim is the south end of the beach; it is usually monitored and posted for safe swimming.

An attractive little beach on the nature reserve is Pasir Putih (white sand). It’s about a 20 minute walk from the fishing village. You go through the reserve entry gate and pay an admission fee, then walk for about a quarter of an hour, keeping right and following the signs to Pasir Putih. You can also go there by boat from the west beach, but be sure to bargain for the fare, the boat will wait until you are ready to return. While you are there, beware of the cheeky monkeys, they may take away your food or even your clothes!

Bicycling has become popular in Pangandaran because of scant car traffic, flat terrain, and the many routes for local tours. Bicycles of all sizes, colors and models can be rented at a number of places. The best time to cycle is of course in the morning, for it gets hot quickly. You can cycle around in the village and explore kampung life by means of the many paths and narrow streets, or you can make a longer tour and cycle out west parallel to the beach. Turning inland from the beach road takes you along sandy lanes and through coconut and cacao groves. More ambitious cyclist might want to pedal 7 km west to the lagoon, or even farther by crossing the road to Cijulang and venturing north into the hills where forests and waterfalls are.