Things To Do
in Tanjungpandan
Tanjungpandan is a coastal town on Belitung Island in Indonesia, known for its pristine beaches and dramatic granite formations. It serves as the main gateway to Belitung's islets, including Lengkuas and Kelayang, with calm turquoise waters and welcoming locals. The town blends Malay and Chinese influences, offering seafood markets, laid-back cafes, and colorful street life.
Visitors can enjoy beach time by day and lighthouse viewpoints and island-hopping by boat by night.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Tanjungpandan Museum, where you can explore the rich history of Belitung Island through fascinating artifacts. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, admiring the unique architecture and local shops. Don't forget to stop by the iconic Alun-Alun Tanjungpandan park to enjoy the morning breeze and vibrant atmosphere.
For lunch, enjoy some local cuisine at a nearby restaurant, savoring traditional dishes like gangan and fried squid. Post-lunch, head to the beautiful Vihara Dewi Kwan Im, a serene Buddhist temple where you can reflect in tranquility and appreciate the intricate designs. Wrap up the afternoon with a visit to the local market, where you can shop for handmade crafts and delicious snacks.
As the sun sets, enjoy a casual dinner at a seaside restaurant, relishing fresh seafood while listening to the sounds of the waves. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach, soaking in the stunning sunset views. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local café for a taste of Belitung’s famous coffee.
Kick off your beach day at Tanjung Tinggi Beach, known for its stunning white sands and crystal-clear waters. Spend the morning sunbathing or swimming, and don’t miss the chance to take a few photos with the giant granite boulders that dot the coastline. For those feeling adventurous, consider renting a kayak to explore the calm waters.
After a morning of fun, enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the nearby beach shacks, sampling grilled fish and coconut drinks. Post-lunch, dive into some thrilling water sports like jet skiing or banana boat rides available at the beach. Embrace the adrenaline rush and laughter with friends or family as you glide across the waves.
As the day winds down, enjoy a sunset picnic on the beach, with snacks and drinks while the sky transitions into vibrant hues of orange and purple. Afterward, indulge in a beachside dinner, where you can experience the local flavors paired with the sound of the ocean. Finish your evening with a bonfire on the beach, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Local coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $18-40 |
| 🚕Taxi or ride-hailing short trip | $2-6 |
| 🦞Seafood dinner for two | $15-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and island scenery
- Excellent seafood and relaxed pace of life
- Affordable compared with other Indonesian destinations
- Friendly locals
- Limited nightlife and big-city amenities
- Some areas require boat trips or longer drives
- Seasonal rain can affect boat trips
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much does it cost?
- "Di mana ... ?" - Where is ...?
- "Tolong" - Please / Help
- "Saya tidak mengerti" - I don’t understand
- "Apa rekomendasi makanan lokal?" - What is your recommendation for local dishes?
Places to Visit in Tanjungpandan
Visit one of these nice places.
Long sandy shoreline with calm turquoise water and a scenic harbor backdrop, ideal for sunset shoots.
Iconic Dutch‑style lighthouse perched among dramatic granite rocks, best captured on boat rides at sunrise.
Striking granite rock formations along the coast that make dramatic silhouettes at golden hour.
Food in Tanjungpandan
Tanjungpandan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Yellow noodles in a light shrimp stock with shrimp, fish cake, and scallions; a hotel and street‑food staple.
Must-Try!
Grilled fish seasoned with chili, garlic, and lime, often served with sambal and steamed rice.
A mild noodle dish with a coconut‑based broth and local toppings; best enjoyed seaside.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling daytime market offering fresh seafood, tropical fruits, coconut products, and quick local bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A light handshake or nod; greet with a smile and use the right hand for giving and receiving items.
Respectful attire is advised in markets and religious sites; cover shoulders and knees when appropriate.
Show courtesy in conversations and avoid public displays of disrespect; remove shoes when entering homes or some temples.
Tipping is optional; use your right hand for eating; avoid pointing feet toward people or sacred objects.
Safety
Tipping in Tanjungpandan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; small amounts (IDR 5,000–20,000) are common for guides or staff in restaurants and hotels.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and small eateries; credit cards are accepted at hotels and larger restaurants; mobile wallets are increasingly common in tourist areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, sunny days with light to no rain; perfect for beach days, boat trips, and outdoor photography.
Short, heavy showers possible; humidity is high and seas can be choppier, so plan flexible outdoor activities and pack rain gear.
Tanjungpandan at Night
Hiking in Tanjungpandan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short hikes with sea viewpoints, limestone formations, and birdwatching opportunities.
Gentle climbs offering panoramas of the coast and town.
Airports
How to reach Tanjungpandan by plane.
Nearest airport serving domestic flights from Jakarta and other Indonesian hubs; located on Belitung Island.
Regional airport providing connections to major Indonesian cities; transfer services to Belitung are available by land and sea.
Major international gateway; most visitors fly here first and connect domestically to Belitung via a transit airport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Two major cultural groups contribute to the island’s unique blend of traditions and flavors.
Local livelihoods centered on the sea; residents are typically warm and welcoming to visitors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region’s most popular sport with local leagues and casual games on weekends.
Widely played in community centers and homes across Belitung.
Familiar beach and island sport due to the crystal‑clear waters around Belitung’s islets.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tanjungpandan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but most dishes are seafood‑heavy; look for tofu, tempeh, vegetables with rice, and request no shrimp stock or fish sauce.