Ciamis

Pangandaran, Karang Nini and Batu Hiu

This is the second beach resort area on the Indian Ocean after Pelabuhan Ratu. It certainly equals the latter's awe-inspiring natural beauty, however, it has the disadvantage of being so far off from Bandung (223 km) and even more so from Jakarta (400 km). Road conditions are good, thus making the trip by car or bus recommendable. However, if you prefer to take the train, get into the Bandung-Yogyakarta Express train and get off at the Banjar railroad station about 4 hours later. From here it will be another 50 km by bus to Pangandaran. The beach is called Penanjung, where most of the cottages and hotels are located, however, of modest ratings. Nothing luxurious should be expected. Pangandaran is especially of interest to nature lovers, as there is a wildlife reserve in the vicinity where wild birds and other indigenous animals live about freely to be enjoyed by visitors. Here too, the white beaches are fine, the ocean ever so blue and the seafood superb. Twelve kilometers before arriving at Pangandaran you will see a huge rock on the beach which is called Karang Nini. A forest Conservation Park is located right here, which is another place of special interest to nature lovers. Nearby is a camping ground which has basic facilities suitable for the younger set. Somewhat further out, west of Pangandaran, driving 23 km on the way to Parigi, lies Batu Hiu, meaning Shark's Rock, which is a coastal rock having the shape of a shark. Close by a recreation park is found where you can have an endless open ocean view and enjoy nature at its best.