Bedil Island Emerges as Banyuwangi’s New Marine Tourism Gem

KBRN, Banyuwangi: Bedil Island, located in the waters off Pancer in Sumberagung Village, Pesanggaran Subdistrict, Banyuwangi Regency, East Java, has become a rising attraction during the Christmas and New Year holidays.

The exotic cluster of small islands, with its calm, natural atmosphere, is attracting more visitors and establishing itself as a new marine tourism destination at the southern tip of Banyuwangi.

Situated along the southern coast, Bedil Island offers sweeping views of the Indian Ocean. Its unique landscape is formed by a series of tiny, adjacent islands that create a striking panorama rarely found along Java’s shoreline.

The island’s main attractions can be enjoyed from several vantage points, including Green Island, Puncak Kemuning, and Jungle Island. From above, visitors can see the cluster of islands surrounded by waters that shift from turquoise to deep blue.

This natural beauty has earned Bedil Island the nickname “Banyuwangi’s Raja Ampat.”

Taufik Rohman, acting head of the Banyuwangi Regency Culture and Tourism Agency, reported a significant increase in tourist visits during the 2025 Christmas and New Year season.

Between December 24 and 31, 2025, a total of 3,397 visitors crossed to the island. “In addition to the panoramic views from above, visitors are treated to clear seawater with beautiful color gradations. The lagoon around the island is relatively calm and safe for swimming, allowing tourists to enjoy its pristine natural charm,” Taufik said on Thursday, January 1, 2026.

Reaching Bedil Island requires a two-hour land journey from downtown Banyuwangi to Mustika Beach in Pancer, followed by a short crossing on traditional boats operated by local fishermen.

Along the way, travelers are greeted by towering coral cliffs and the powerful waves of the southern coast. The boat ride itself is part of the experience before arriving on the island’s white sandy shores.

Tourist arrivals peak during long holidays, including Vesak Day. Increasingly, international visitors are considering Bedil Island as an alternative destination to Bali, driven by improved infrastructure and active social media promotion.

After exploring the island, many travelers return to Mustika Beach to enjoy fresh seafood. Local fishermen serve a variety of dishes, from lobster to grilled fish, which pair perfectly with the spectacular sunset over Banyuwangi’s southern coast. (Misni Parjiati/Lasti Martina)