Things To Do
in Manggar

Manggar is a charming coastal town located in East Belitung, Indonesia, known for its stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage. The town offers a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure alike. Visitors can explore local fishing traditions and enjoy fresh seafood along the coast.

With its warm climate and friendly locals, Manggar is an inviting destination for all types of travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Manggar
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Tanjung Kelayang Beach, where you can enjoy the sunrise and take a swim in the clear waters.

afternoon
:

Head to the Manggar Traditional Market to experience local culture and sample street food delicacies.

evening
:

Enjoy a sunset dinner at a beachfront restaurant, savoring fresh seafood while watching the waves.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Visit the Bukit Berahu, a nearby hill offering panoramic views of the coastline and a great hiking experience.

afternoon
:

Explore the local mangrove forests, either on foot or by kayak, to appreciate the unique ecosystem.

evening
:

Relax at a local café and enjoy a traditional Indonesian coffee while mingling with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$3-5
Coffee at a café$1-2
🚕Taxi ride within the town$2-4
🛍️Souvenir shopping$5-20
🏨Night at a mid-range hotel$30-50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and natural scenery
  • Rich local culture and friendly people
  • Affordable cost of living
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Public transportation may be scarce
  • Healthcare facilities are basic
  • "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Apa kabar?" - How are you?
  • "Tolong bantu saya" - Please help me
  • "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the toilet?

Places to Visit in Manggar

Visit one of these nice places.

Tanjung Kelayang Beach

A picturesque beach with white sand and clear waters, perfect for capturing sunrise and sunset.

Bukit Berahu

A hilltop viewpoint offering breathtaking vistas of the coastline and surrounding islands.

Manggar Traditional Market

A vibrant scene of local life, bustling with vendors and colorful produce.

Culinary Guide

Food in Manggar

Manggar's culinary scene is a delightful blend of fresh seafood and traditional Indonesian flavors, making it a haven for food lovers.

Manggar Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ikan Bakar

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

Must-Try!

Soto Belitung

A rich soup made with chicken or seafood, served with rice noodles and fresh herbs.

Kerupuk

Crispy crackers made from fish or shrimp, often enjoyed as a snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Manggar Traditional Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food.

Pasar Malam

A night market offering a variety of street food options and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Manggar is tropical, characterized by high humidity and warm temperatures year-round. The average temperature hovers around 28-32°C (82-90°F) with a distinct wet and dry season. The dry season from April to October is ideal for outdoor activities, while the wet season from November to March brings heavier rainfall, particularly in December and January.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

When visiting temples or local homes, dress modestly and respectfully.

Greeting Locals

A polite greeting with a smile is appreciated; a handshake is common among men, while women may prefer a nod.

Respect for Elders

Show respect to elders by using polite language and gestures.

Safety Guide

Safety

Manggar is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to take standard precautions such as securing valuables and avoiding isolated areas at night. Health care facilities are available, but it's wise to have travel insurance. Be cautious when swimming and engage in water activities only in designated safe areas.

Tipping in Manggar

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

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

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; credit cards may be accepted at larger establishments but have limited use at small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (April - October)

Expect sunny days and minimal rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.

Wet Season (November - March)

Frequent rain showers may occur, but the landscape becomes lush and green.

Festive Season (December)

Local festivals and celebrations take place, offering a vibrant cultural experience.

Summer (July - August)

Peak travel season with increased tourist activity and local events.

Nightlife Guide

Manggar at Night

Manggar's nightlife is relatively laid-back, with a few beachfront bars and cafes offering live music and local entertainment. Most places close early, making it a peaceful environment to enjoy a quiet evening by the sea. Local gatherings often feature traditional music and dance, providing an authentic cultural experience.

Hiking in Manggar

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bukit Berahu

A moderate hiking trail leading to a hilltop with stunning views of the ocean.

Gunung Geureudong

A more challenging hike that rewards climbers with breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Manggar by plane.

H.A.S. Hanandjoeddin International Airport

Located about 40 km from Manggar, this airport serves domestic flights and is the primary gateway for travelers visiting Belitung.

Getting Around

Walkability

Manggar is a small town, making it quite walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and markets are within a short distance from each other. However, be prepared for some uneven terrain, especially near the beaches and parks.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Fishermen

A significant portion of the community is involved in fishing, serving as the backbone of the local economy.

Tourists

With increasing tourism, visitors from around the world come to experience Manggar's natural beauty and culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is widely played among locals, with many informal matches taking place in public spaces.

Fishing

Fishing is a popular activity in Manggar, with both locals and tourists enjoying the bountiful waters.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Manggar is generally light, with most locals using motorcycles or bicycles. Public transportation options are limited, but taxis and ride-sharing services are available. Walking is a common way to get around, especially for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Manggar.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to ask about ingredients.

Halal Food

Most local dishes are halal, but always check with the vendor or restaurant.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Manggar are basic, with a few clinics and small hospitals available. For more serious medical needs, it's advisable to travel to larger cities like Tanjung Pandan. Travelers should have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide