Things To Do
in Banyuwangi

Banyuwangi, located at the eastern end of Java, Indonesia, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture. Known as the gateway to Bali, it offers breathtaking landscapes, including beaches, mountains, and national parks. The area is also famous for its rich cultural heritage, featuring traditional ceremonies and unique local arts.

Visitors are drawn to its proximity to the iconic Mount Ijen, known for its striking blue flames and sulfur mining.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Ijen Crater for a sunrise hike. Witness the famous blue flames and the stunning turquoise crater lake.

afternoon
:

Head to the Banyuwangi Ethno Carnival, where you can explore local arts and crafts, and enjoy traditional performances.

evening
:

Dine at a local seafood restaurant along the beach, enjoying the sunset while savoring fresh dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Beaches and Local Life
morning
:

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before heading to Pulau Merah Beach for sunbathing and swimming.

afternoon
:

Visit the traditional village of Osing, where you can experience local culture and crafts firsthand.

evening
:

Explore the local night market, trying various street foods while shopping for souvenirs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at Local Restaurant$2 - $5
🍺Local Beer$1 - $3
🚖Taxi Ride$3 - $10
🏨Night in Budget Hotel$15 - $30
🛍️Souvenirs$5 - $20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and biodiversity.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
  • Affordable cost of living and dining options.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier for non-Indonesian speakers.
  • Public transport options may be limited.
  • "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Tolong bantu saya" - Please help me
  • "Apa kabar?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Banyuwangi

Visit one of these nice places.

Ijen Crater

Capture the stunning blue flames and the vibrant turquoise lake, especially during early morning hours.

Pulau Merah Beach

A picturesque beach with stunning sunsets, ideal for beach and landscape photography.

Taman Sritanjung

A beautiful park offering lush greenery and local sculptures, perfect for capturing the essence of Banyuwangi.

Culinary Guide

Food in Banyuwangi

Banyuwangi offers a rich culinary experience that reflects its diverse culture and natural resources. The local cuisine is characterized by fresh seafood, traditional spices, and unique cooking methods.

Banyuwangi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Tempong

A traditional Banyuwangi dish made of rice served with spicy sambal and various side dishes.

Must-Try!

Ikan Bakar

Grilled fish, typically marinated with local spices, served with rice and sambal.

Soto Banyuwangi

A local soup made with meat, vegetables, and spices, often served with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Banyuwangi Night Market

A vibrant market where you can try a variety of street foods, including satay, fried tofu, and desserts.

Taman Sritanjung

A popular spot for locals to gather and enjoy street food stalls offering affordable meals.

Climate Guide

Weather

Banyuwangi has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the wet season (November to March) and the dry season (April to October). Temperatures generally range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F) throughout the year. The humidity can be high, especially during the rainy months, while the dry season offers more comfortable weather for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

When visiting temples or local villages, dress conservatively to show respect.

Use Your Right Hand

Use your right hand for eating and handing things to others, as the left hand is considered impolite.

Respect Local Customs

Participate in local traditions and ceremonies with respect and an open mind.

Safety Guide

Safety

Banyuwangi is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid displaying valuable items and be cautious in crowded areas. It's recommended to use reputable transportation services and avoid isolated areas at night.

Tipping in Banyuwangi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Rainy Season (November - March)

Expect heavy rainfall, which may impact outdoor activities. However, the landscape is lush and green.

Dry Season (April - October)

Ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing, with plenty of sunshine and pleasant temperatures.

Festival Season

Various cultural festivals occur throughout the year, providing unique experiences and photo opportunities.

Peak Tourist Season (July - August)

Expect larger crowds and higher prices, but also more events and activities available.

Nightlife Guide

Banyuwangi at Night

Banyuwangi's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to major cities. Local cafes and restaurants often have live music, especially on weekends. The night market comes alive in the evening, offering street food and local snacks. For those looking for a more lively atmosphere, some beach clubs provide a vibrant setting with music and dance.

Hiking in Banyuwangi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Raung

A challenging hike to the summit rewards trekkers with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Baluran National Park

Offers various trails through savanna and forest, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Banyuwangi by plane.

Banyuwangi Airport (BWX)

Located about 10 km from the city center, it offers flights to and from major cities like Jakarta and Bali.

Getting Around

Walkability

Banyuwangi is relatively walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, markets, and eateries are located within a short distance. Sidewalks are available but can be uneven in places. Walking is a great way to explore the local culture and interact with residents.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Javanese

The majority ethnic group, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Balinese

Present due to the proximity to Bali, contributing to a blend of cultures and traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Badminton

A popular sport among locals; many play in parks and community centers.

Surfing

With beautiful beaches, Banyuwangi attracts surfers looking for great waves, especially at Pulau Merah.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Banyuwangi is generally light compared to larger Indonesian cities. Most locals use scooters or motorbikes for transportation. Public transportation options include small buses and angkots (shared taxis), which are affordable but may not be very frequent.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Banyuwangi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients as some may use fish sauce.

Halal Food

Most local food is halal, but it's recommended to verify with the vendors.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Banyuwangi has several clinics and hospitals, but major medical centers are located in larger cities like Surabaya. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. For serious health issues, transportation to a larger city may be necessary.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide