Things To Do
in Parepare
Parepare is a coastal city on the southwest tip of Sulawesi, Indonesia, known for its welcoming communities and seafood-focused cuisine. It sits along the Celebes Sea with a working harbor that reflects the city’s maritime spirit. The city blends Bugis and Makassar influences, offering a laid-back vibe, colorful markets, and sunsets over the water.
As a gateway to nearby beaches and scenic hills, Parepare provides a relaxed base for exploring South Sulawesi culture and nature.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the majestic Parepare Mosque, a stunning architectural gem that offers a glimpse into the local Islamic culture. Afterward, stroll through the historic streets of the town, where colonial-era buildings stand as a testament to Parepare's rich past. Stop by a local café for a traditional breakfast of pisang goreng (fried bananas) and a cup of robust Indonesian coffee.
In the afternoon, head to the Museum of Sengkang to discover artifacts that showcase the area's history, including textiles and pottery. Following your museum visit, enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, taking in the views of the Makassar Strait while observing local fishermen at work. Treat yourself to lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant, sampling fresh fish caught that morning.
As the sun sets, find a spot at the beach to watch the colorful hues of twilight paint the sky. Dinner at a popular local eatery will allow you to indulge in the regional specialty, Coto Makassar, a flavorful beef soup. Finish your evening with a relaxing stroll along the beach, enjoying the gentle sound of waves lapping the shore.
Kick off your day at the pristine Parepare Beach, where the golden sands and turquoise waters invite you to relax. Rent a kayak or paddleboard for a fun-filled morning gliding across the calm sea. Don't forget to take plenty of photos of the breathtaking scenery and the surrounding lush landscape.
After a morning of water sports, enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach with local snacks like kerupuk (crackers) and fresh fruits. Spend your afternoon soaking up the sun, or take a dip in the refreshing waters to cool off. If you're feeling adventurous, join a guided snorkeling tour to explore the vibrant marine life just offshore.
As dusk approaches, unwind at a beachside café with a refreshing drink in hand, savoring the cooling ocean breeze. Enjoy a seafood barbecue dinner featuring freshly caught fish and prawns, grilled to perfection. Wrap up your day by gathering around a bonfire on the beach, sharing stories and laughter with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🥤Soft drink | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🚖Taxi start price | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-2 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $20-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible coastal city with fresh seafood
- Relatively affordable travel and lodging
- Friendly locals and easy to get around
- Limited nightlife and fewer upscale entertainment options
- Humidity and heat can be intense
- Public transport options can be sporadic outside the city
- "Halo" - Hello
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Tolong" - Please/Help
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
Places to Visit in Parepare
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful boats, fishing activity, and golden-hour light over calm waters provide classic coastal photography opportunities.
Wide sandy shoreline with palm trees and gentle waves; ideal for wide landscape shots and long exposures.
City park with ponds and promenades, offering street photography and candid moments of locals at leisure.
Food in Parepare
Parepare Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant, spice-rich beef soup that represents the broader Makassar culinary influence found across Sulawesi.
Must-Try!
Smoky, peppery beef ribs often served with a strong, savory broth and sambal.
Grilled fish seasoned with local spices and served with rice and sambal.
Assorted seafood dishes prepared in simple, fresh styles highlighting the coast’s bounty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant stalls offering freshly caught seafood, with opportunities to watch fishmongers and sample bites.
Casual stalls near the waterfront offering quick bites, fried snacks, and nasi kuning plates.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms in public spaces and religious sites; cover shoulders and knees when appropriate.
A polite handshake or a nod is common; address elders with formal terms and use the right hand for giving/receiving items.
Safety
Tipping in Parepare
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; small tips for guides and waitstaff are customary in tourist areas.
Cash is widely accepted; many places in towns and markets prefer cash. Some hotels and larger shops support cards and mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season brings abundant sunshine and very warm days; great for outdoor activities and beach time.
Increased humidity and afternoon rain showers; pack a lightweight rain jacket and protect gear with waterproof cases.
Parepare at Night
Hiking in Parepare
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short ascent offering city and coast views; good for sunrise photography and a quick escape into nature.
Gentle trails through mangroves and hillside areas with opportunities to see birds and regional flora.
Airports
How to reach Parepare by plane.
Domestic airport serving Parepare with connections to Makassar and other Indonesian cities.
Major international gateway about 150-200 km away; provides domestic and international flights; best-connected hub for broader travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant cultural group contributing to language, cuisine, and markets in Parepare.
Another large group shaping local culture and culinary traditions.
Small but active communities from across Sulawesi and Indonesia.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local clubs and informal games are common around town.
Widely played in community centers and schools; easy to join a casual game as a traveler.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Parepare.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Parepare, vegetarian options include vegetable curries, tofu/tempeh dishes, and rice-based meals; specify no meat stock or fish broth, and ask for sambal without shrimp paste if needed.