± 6–7-hour drive from Surabaya, or a 1-hour flight
Banyuwangi
The easternmost tip of Java: a blue crater, exotic beaches, and tropical rainforest.
About This Area
Nicknamed "The Sunrise of Java", Banyuwangi blends mountains, rainforest, and coastline within a single regency. From the famous blue fire phenomenon at Ijen Crater to pink-tinted sand and world-class waves at G-Land, this area is a favourite for families seeking both a relaxing holiday and a nature adventure. Villas here are often located near the southern coast, such as Pulau Merah (Red Island), carrying a distinctly tropical atmosphere.
Why Stay Here
- Home to one of the world's rare blue fire phenomena
- Exotic beaches: Pulau Merah, Pulau Santen, Teluk Hijau (Green Bay)
- A tropical coastal setting with private, open-air villas
- Gateway to Alas Purwo National Park and the Sukamade turtle sanctuary
What to Do
- A pre-dawn trek to witness the blue fire at Ijen Crater (recommended for kids aged 10+)
- Playing in the sand and swimming at the gently sloping Pulau Merah beach
- Snorkeling in the clear waters off Pulau Santen
- Watching baby sea turtles being released at Sukamade Beach
- Watching a Gandrung Sewu dance performance or visiting Osing traditional village
Best Picks for Families
Since villas are usually booked by families, here are the attractions in this area most worth visiting with children.
- Pulau Merah — calm waves, great for kids to play in the water
- Kemiren Osing Traditional Village — a family-friendly cultural experience
- Gandrung Terracotta Park — a unique photo spot for the whole family
- Watudodol — a relaxed beach with views across the Bali Strait
Must-Visit Places
Ijen Crater
Pulau Merah (Red Island)
Green Bay (Teluk Hijau)
Sukamade Beach
Alas Purwo National Park
Kemiren Osing Traditional Village