Behind Yogyakarta’s well-known charm of culture and history lies a hidden paradise that captivates both tranquility seekers and adventurers alike: the white sand beaches of Gunungkidul. The journey there is more than just reaching a destination, it’s about savoring every surprising step through hills and forests.
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From mesmerizing sunrises to Instagram-worthy photo spots, each beach tells its own unique story and radiates its allure. Get ready to discover seven stunning white sand beaches that will make your Yogyakarta getaway an unforgettable experience!
1. Ngrumput Beach
Ngrumput Beach in Gunungkidul is one of the hidden gem white sand beaches, offering an exciting adventure before you even arrive. To reach it, you must trek about 5–10 minutes from Drini Beach along a narrow path winding through rice fields and hills. Although vehicles cannot access the beach directly, this journey is part of its unique charm. Located approximately 62–66 km from Yogyakarta, it’s an ideal getaway for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.
The main attractions of Ngrumput Beach include its pristine white sand, exotic limestone cliffs, and stunning sunrises viewed from Kosakora Hill. Visitors can enjoy activities such as camping, light hiking, and exploring the rocky coastline. Entrance is affordable at only IDR 10,000, with facilities including food stalls, restrooms, a prayer room, and a safe camping area. For the best experience, come in the morning or late afternoon, bring provisions, and wear comfortable footwear.
- Location: Gunungkidul Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta 55881
2. Watu Lawang Beach
Watu Lawang Beach is another exotic white sand beaches, a lesser-known destination perfect for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Situated between Indrayanti and Pok Tunggal Beaches, it’s about a 67 km journey from Yogyakarta. With accessible routes, you only need to walk 600–800 meters from Indrayanti Beach to reach Watu Lawang.
This beach’s highlights are its striking rock formations, Watu Lawang Cave, and an Instagram-worthy bamboo bridge. Visitors can camp, watch breathtaking sunrises or sunsets, explore caves, and capture stunning nature photos.
With a modest entry fee of IDR 10,000, the beach offers comfortable amenities such as gazebos, food stalls, a prayer room, and observation towers. Visiting on weekdays ensures a peaceful atmosphere. Bring your camping gear for an authentic outdoor experience.
- Location: Pendowo, Jepitu, Girisubo, Gunungkidul Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta 55883
3. Kayu Arum Beach
Kayu Arum Beach is a tranquil natural haven in Gunungkidul, located in Kanigoro Village. It can only be accessed by trekking through forest trails from the Baron Technopark area, making the journey both challenging and rewarding. Admission is IDR 10,000, granting access to clean white sand, unique rock formations, and refreshing blue waters.
Though relatively new, the beach features facilities such as camping grounds, restrooms, and fishing spots. Popular activities include fishing and photographing the scenic cliffs. For an optimal visit, arrive early morning or late afternoon, bring complete gear, and consider hiring a local guide for safety and an enriched experience.
- Location: Kranon, Kanigoro, Saptosari, Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta
4. Ngrenehan Beach
Ngrenehan Beach is located in Kanigoro Village, a fishing village in Gunungkidul. The beach is shaped like a bay and is surrounded by coral hills. Beyond its scenic beauty, the beach carries historical value, believed to be the hiding place of Prabu Brawijaya V around the year 1478 AD.
Ngrenehan Beach is known for its beautiful white sand, where everyone can enjoy freshly caught seafood prepared in a variety of dishes. It is also famous for offering some of the best sunrise views, making the trip of more than 1.5 hours from Yogyakarta well worth the journey.
- Location: Kanigoro, Saptosari, Wonosari Gunung
5. Jungwok Beach
Situated in Jepitu Village, Jungwok Beach features fine white sand with a gracefully curved shoreline and captivating open sea views. Known for its peaceful ambiance, it’s perfect for those looking to escape crowds. A unique highlight is the Jungwok Blue Ocean, a Santorini-inspired photo spot with charming white and blue décor, complemented by local cuisine and a mini pool.
Besides scenic enjoyment, visitors can watch the sunrise from Manjung Hill or fish along the rocky cliffs. Facilities include parking, food stalls, restrooms, and camping areas for visitor comfort. Open 24 hours, the entrance fee is only IDR 5,000 per person. Bringing your own supplies and comfortable footwear will enhance your visit.
- Location: Pendowo, Jepitu, Girisubo, Gunungkidul Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta
6. Wohkudu Beach
Wohkudu Beach, located in Wiloso, Girikarto, Panggang District, is a small, secluded beach with an exotic natural charm. After a 1.5-hour journey from Yogyakarta, visitors must descend a roughly 500-meter rocky path, which can be challenging, especially during the rainy season. However, the beach’s beauty, surrounded by towering karst cliffs, soft white sand, and lush greenery, makes the effort worthwhile.
Ideal for relaxation and tranquility, Wohkudu offers three-tiered camping areas and an iconic beachside swing photo spot. At low tide, visitors can explore marine life among the rocks. Facilities are modest, including parking, paid restrooms, a prayer room, food stalls, and local photography services. Entrance costs around IDR 8,000 per person. It’s recommended to bring trekking shoes and personal gear due to limited facilities and rugged access.
- Location: Wiloso, Girikarto, Kec. Panggang, Kabupaten Gunungkidul, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta 55872
7. Seruni Beach
Seruni Beach is a hidden paradise known for its white sand beaches and breathtaking ocean views. Its unique attraction is a natural waterfall cascading from cliffs into the sea, creating a refreshing pool perfect for playing or fishing. Facing directly toward the sea, this spot is ideal for watching romantic sunrises and sunsets. It also suits light activities such as jogging, photography, or camping under clear night skies.
- Location: Pantai, Tepus, Gunungkidul, Special Region of Yogyakarta 55881
Though still natural with basic facilities like parking, simple food stalls, and minimal restrooms, the rocky access path requires sturdy outdoor shoes and self-supplied provisions. Swimming is discouraged due to strong currents and the absence of lifeguards. The best visiting times are morning through afternoon or late afternoon, ensuring a memorable experience while helping keep the beach clean.
Discover the untouched beauty of Gunungkidul’s white sand beaches. Each spot offers a unique blend of adventure and peace. Experience breathtaking sunrises and hidden natural wonders. Pack your bags and make these stunning beaches your next unforgettable escape!