Things To Do
in Manggar
Manggar is a quiet coastal town on Belitung Island, known for its laid-back atmosphere and lush tropical scenery. It serves as the administrative center of East Belitung and a gateway to pristine beaches and fishing villages. Visitors are welcomed by friendly locals, seafood stalls, and charming colonial-era houses.
The town offers a relaxed base for exploring limestone shores, turquoise waters, and scenic countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Manggar Town Square, where you can admire the unique blend of traditional Indonesian architecture and modern influences. Enjoy a local breakfast at a nearby café, sampling traditional dishes like nasi goreng or bubur ayam. As you stroll through the square, take in the vibrant atmosphere and the friendly interactions with locals starting their day.
In the afternoon, head to the Manggar Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the region, showcasing artifacts that narrate the story of Manggar's past. Afterward, wander through the local markets, where you can shop for handmade crafts and sample street food delicacies. Engage with local artisans, who are often eager to share the stories behind their creations.
As the sun begins to set, make your way to the beautiful beach along the coast for a breathtaking view of the horizon. Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at one of the beachside restaurants, where the catch of the day is grilled to perfection. Cap off your evening with a leisurely walk along the shore, listening to the sound of the waves and reflecting on the day's experiences.
Kick off your day with an exhilarating boat ride to one of the nearby islands, known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning coral reefs. Upon arrival, indulge in a refreshing breakfast on the beach, soaking in the sun and the sea breeze. Prepare for a day of adventure as you receive a briefing on various water sports available, such as snorkeling and jet skiing.
After your morning activities, dive into the vibrant underwater world while snorkeling among colorful fish and coral formations. For those seeking more excitement, try your hand at paddleboarding or take a thrilling ride on a banana boat. As the afternoon winds down, relax on the sandy beach with a cold drink, enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
Return to Manggar in the evening and treat yourself to dinner at a local seafood restaurant, where fresh catches are served with traditional Indonesian spices. After dinner, stroll through the town, visiting local shops and experiencing the lively night market. Conclude your night by sampling some local desserts while mingling with residents at the market.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕️Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🚕Local transport (short ride) | $2-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $15-30 |
| 🧁Snacks or souvenirs | $2-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Laid-back vibe and friendly locals
- Excellent seafood and coastal scenery
- Limited nightlife and fewer tourist services
- Smaller selection of international dining and accommodations compared to bigger cities
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Tolong" - Please / Help
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is it?
- "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Saya tidak bisa berbahasa Indonesia dengan baik" - I don’t speak Indonesian well
- "Apa rekomendasinya?" - What do you recommend?
- "Saya mau pesan..." - I would like to order...
- "Selamat malam" - Good evening
- "Permisi" - Excuse me
Places to Visit in Manggar
Visit one of these nice places.
Quiet mornings with fishing boats, nets, and calm water creating mirror-like reflections.
Rugged limestone formations along the coast provide dramatic backdrops and dramatic silhouettes at sunrise or sunset.
Palm-lined promenade with traditional boats and golden hour light for street photography.
Food in Manggar
Manggar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Yellow noodle soup with shrimp, fish cake, and a light, clear broth; widely available at local warungs.
Must-Try!
Fish cooked in a savory fermented tauco sauce, a Belitung specialty.
Grilled fish served with chili and lime; best with fresh sambal.
Assorted grilled fish, prawns, and squid with dipping sauces.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering fresh seafood, fruit, vegetables, and snacks—great for a morning bite.
Beachfront stalls serving quick bites like fried snacks, coconut water, and grilled fish along the promenade.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and a handshake; use polite language and address elders with appropriate titles. Saying Selamat pagi/siang/sore is common.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered in sacred spaces. Remove shoes when entering homes if invited.
Use your right hand for giving and receiving; avoid pointing with feet or with objects.
Ask permission before taking photos of people or inside small workshops or homes.
Safety
Tipping in Manggar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory in Manggar. In tourist-oriented establishments, rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10% is common.
Cash (Indonesian Rupiah) is widely used; many places accept debit/credit cards in larger restaurants or hotels. ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mostly sunny days with low rainfall; sea conditions are generally calm, ideal for beach days and island-hopping trips.
Frequent showers and higher humidity; expect brief heavy rain, but mornings can still be pleasant; plan indoor activities and flexible outdoor plans.
Manggar at Night
Hiking in Manggar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A relaxed coastal hike along limestone coastlines with ocean views and photo opportunities.
Forest trails offering shade, birds, and a glimpse of local flora and fauna near rural Belitung.
Airports
How to reach Manggar by plane.
The nearest major airport on Belitung Island, located in Tanjung Pandan; connects to Jakarta and other Indonesian hubs. About 60-90 minutes by road from Manggar.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant Malay-speaking communities with a mix of Chinese and Javanese residents.
Islam is common, with Buddhist and Christian communities present in the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime at local fields and casual matches among residents.
Common in communities and recreation centers.
Beach and hotel pools are popular for recreation and exercise.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Manggar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Indonesian dishes use fish or shrimp stock, so ask for vegetable-based options like tempeh, tofu, vegetables in coconut sauce, or fried tofu and rice. Look for clear vegetable dishes and request no fish sauce.