Things To Do
in Tuban
Tuban is a coastal town in East Java that blends agricultural hinterlands with a laid-back, seaside pace. It sits along the Java Sea, offering quiet beaches, local markets, and a doorway to the broader East Java coast. The town is known for fresh seafood, friendly local communities, and a gateway feel to nearby cultural and natural sights.
Visitors will find a relaxed atmosphere, modest street life, and opportunities to experience authentic Javanese culture away from the larger tourist hubs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the famous Sunan Bonang Tomb, where you can learn about the local history and the spread of Islam in Java. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful architecture provide a serene backdrop for morning reflection. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby warung, sampling local delights like nasi pecel.
In the afternoon, head to the Tuban Museum to uncover more of the region's rich cultural heritage through its impressive collection of artifacts. Engage with local artisans in a nearby village, where you can watch pottery making and even try your hand at molding clay. As the sun begins to dip, stroll along the riverside for a scenic view of the sunset reflecting on the water.
For dinner, indulge in fresh seafood at one of the local beachfront restaurants, where the sound of waves enhances your dining experience. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the beach, feeling the cool breeze and listening to the sound of the ocean. End your night with a cultural performance at a local venue, showcasing traditional Javanese dance and music.
Kick off your morning with an energizing breakfast at your hotel before heading to the stunning beaches of Tuban. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear waters or relax on the soft sands while soaking up the sun. If you're feeling adventurous, try out some water sports like jet skiing or parasailing for a thrilling start to your day.
After a morning of fun, grab lunch at a beachside café offering local dishes and fresh coconuts. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby coral reefs through snorkeling, where you can marvel at the vibrant marine life beneath the surface. For those who prefer to stay on land, a leisurely beach walk collecting shells could be the perfect alternative.
As the day winds down, watch the breathtaking sunset over the Indian Ocean, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. For dinner, visit a local seafood restaurant known for its freshly grilled fish and traditional sambal. Finish your evening by relaxing on the beach with a drink, enjoying the soothing sounds of the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🥗Lunch at a mid-range restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🏨1-night in a mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
| 🚕Short taxi or ride-hailing ride | $3-8 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and authentic local culture
- Coastal scenery with accessible beaches
- Limited major tourist infrastructure compared to larger towns
- Less nightlife and English-speaking availability in some areas
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana stasiun kereta?" - Where is the train station?
- "Tolong" - Please / Help
Places to Visit in Tuban
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide sandy shore with calm mornings and colorful skies at sunrise; great for long-exposure seascapes and silhouettes of fishing boats.
Open central square framed by traditional architecture and street life; ideal for candid street photography and sunset tones.
A working jetty where fishermen launch and haul nets; the early light over the water creates dramatic lines and characterful textures.
Food in Tuban
Tuban Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved local soup featuring aromatic broth, chicken or beef, and rice or vermicelli; you’ll often find it served with emping crackers and fresh herbs at casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Steamed rice topped with a mix of blanched vegetables and peanut sauce, a quintessential East Java dish that pairs well with fried tempeh or perkedel.
A tangy fruit and vegetable salad with a distinctive sauce and sliced cingur (cow snout) or alternative proteins; commonly found in regional stalls and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market where you can sample local snacks, fresh produce, and seafood; great for observing daily life and picking up affordable bites.
Along the main coastal roads and near the harbor, look for grilled fish, tempeh, and sambal-focused snacks you can eat on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in public spaces, especially when visiting religious sites. Remove hats and show respect in sacred places.
A handshake is common; use polite language and address elders with courtesy. Avoid pointing feet at people or religious symbols.
Ask permission before photographing people, particularly in villages or private spaces; be mindful of religious or cultural sensitivities.
Safety
Tipping in Tuban
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. For good service, small tips (rounding up or about 10% in nicer places) are common in hotels and sit-down restaurants.
Cash in Indonesian rupiah is widely used. Many places accept debit/credit cards in larger establishments and hotels; mobile payments via apps such as GoPay, OVO, or equivalent are increasingly common, especially in traveller-friendly areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically hot and sunny with lower humidity; ideal for beach days, outdoor markets, and long walks along the coast. Pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat.
Frequent afternoon showers and occasional heavy rains; plan indoor or shaded activities in peak rain hours, and carry a compact rain jacket or umbrella.
Tuban at Night
Hiking in Tuban
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short-to-moderate hike offering rural scenery, viewpoints over farmland, and a chance to see local flora and small villages within a few hours from Tuban.
Close by and suitable for a day trip, featuring gentle ascents, dotted temples, and rural panoramas that lead to scenic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Tuban by plane.
Surabaya's major international gateway serving East Java; commonly used by travelers visiting Tuban for international or domestic flights. Ground transport to Tuban is available by road or rail.
Malang's regional airport; smaller than SUB but useful for domestic connections and as an alternative gateway to East Java when traveling from that direction.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Javanese with minority communities, including other Indonesian groups and a small number of expatriates in some areas.
Predominantly Muslim, with mosques and religious activities a common part of daily life; other faiths are represented in smaller numbers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A nationwide favorite with local clubs and community leagues; casual games are common in parks and school grounds.
Popular in community halls and sports centers; easy to join for travellers seeking a quick game.
Coastal areas support casual fishing and swimming, with opportunities for gentle water activities depending on conditions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tuban.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable-based dishes like nasi pecel or tempeh-centered options; ask for no fish sauce or shrimp paste in sauces, and request simple preparations such as steamed vegetables with rice and peanut sauce.