Things To Do
in Petarukan

Petarukan is a charming coastal village located in the Banyumas Regency of Central Java, Indonesia. Known for its serene beaches and friendly locals, it is an ideal spot for travelers seeking a quieter experience away from bustling tourist areas. The village offers a rich cultural heritage with traditional ceremonies and art, making it a unique destination.

Petarukan's natural beauty is complemented by its lush rice fields and scenic landscapes.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Petarukan
morning
:

Start your day with a breakfast of traditional Javanese dishes at a local eatery, then visit the nearby Petarukan Beach for a relaxing morning by the sea.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets, where you can shop for handicrafts and sample delicious street food. Visit the village's cultural centers to learn about its history and traditions.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant, where you can savor fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the ocean.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Embark on a guided hike through the picturesque rice fields and hills surrounding Petarukan, taking in the stunning views.

afternoon
:

Visit a local temple to experience the spiritual side of Javanese culture. Join a cooking class to learn how to make traditional dishes.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to a local café, enjoying a cup of Javanese coffee while reflecting on your experiences.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$3-10
🏨Budget Accommodation$15-30
🚌Public Transport Fare$0.50
🍵Coffee at a Café$1-3
🛍️Souvenir Shopping$5-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and tranquil atmosphere.
  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
  • Limited nightlife options for party enthusiasts.
  • Some areas may have less access to modern amenities.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Indonesian speakers.
  • "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Tolong" - Please
  • "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Berapa harganya?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Petarukan

Visit one of these nice places.

Petarukan Beach

Capture the stunning sunset over the ocean with golden sands as your foreground.

Rice Fields

The lush green terraces provide a perfect backdrop for landscape photography.

Traditional Temples

Photograph the intricate architecture and serene ambiance of local temples.

Culinary Guide

Food in Petarukan

Petarukan offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Javanese and coastal cuisine. Local eateries serve fresh seafood, spicy sambals, and unique desserts that reflect the region's rich flavors.

Petarukan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Liwet

A fragrant rice dish cooked with coconut milk, served with various side dishes.

Must-Try!

Soto Ayam

A flavorful chicken soup with spices, herbs, and vegetables, typically served with rice.

Tempe Mendoan

Fried tempeh coated with flour and served with a sweet soy sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pasar Petarukan

A bustling market where locals buy fresh produce, snacks, and street food.

Warung Street Food Stalls

Various stalls offering local favorites like satay, fried rice, and fresh fruits.

Climate Guide

Weather

Petarukan experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season from April to October sees warm temperatures averaging 28-32°C (82-90°F), while the rainy season from November to March brings cooler temperatures and increased humidity. Visitors should be prepared for brief but heavy rainfall during the wet months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

When visiting temples or local homes, wear modest clothing and remove shoes when required.

Respect Local Customs

Participate in local traditions and ceremonies when invited, showing respect for cultural practices.

Greetings

A friendly smile and a nod are appreciated; a handshake is common among locals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Petarukan is generally safe for travelers, but it’s wise to take common precautions. Avoid displaying valuables in public, be cautious in crowded areas, and use reputable transportation services. In case of emergencies, familiarize yourself with local authorities and emergency contacts.

Tipping in Petarukan

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; however, some restaurants accept credit cards, so check in advance.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (April - October)

Expect sunny weather ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration.

Rainy Season (November - March)

Frequent rainfall can occur; plan for indoor activities and be cautious of slippery roads.

Holiday Season (Eid, Christmas)

Cultural festivities take place, offering unique experiences and local traditions.

Harvest Season (May - June)

Witness the beauty of the rice harvest; the fields are vibrant and teeming with activity.

Nightlife Guide

Petarukan at Night

Petarukan's nightlife is relaxed, with a few beachside bars and cafes offering live music and entertainment. Although not a party destination, you can enjoy quiet evenings by the sea or engage in local cultural events. Some eateries may host traditional dance performances, allowing visitors to experience local arts in a casual setting.

Hiking in Petarukan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gunung Slamet

A challenging hike to Central Java's second highest volcano, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Curug Jenggala

A scenic trail leading to a beautiful waterfall, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Petarukan by plane.

Banyumas Airport

Located approximately 30 kilometers from Petarukan, this small airport offers limited domestic flights and is the nearest air travel option.

Getting Around

Walkability

Petarukan is relatively walkable, especially in the village center where most local shops, markets, and eateries are located. The flat terrain makes it easy to explore on foot, although venturing into surrounding areas may require transportation. Sidewalks are present but may not always be well-maintained, so caution is advised while walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Javanese

The predominant ethnic group in Petarukan, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Chinese-Indonesians

A significant minority group contributing to the local economy and cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Badminton

A favorite pastime among locals, badminton is played in parks and open spaces throughout the village.

Soccer

Soccer is very popular in Petarukan, with many children and adults playing in community fields.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Petarukan is generally light, with most locals using motorcycles and scooters for transportation. Public transportation consists of small buses and angkot (shared taxis), which are readily available. Visitors should be cautious while crossing streets and be aware of local traffic norms, as they may differ from those in Western countries.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Petarukan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be made vegetarian; however, always ask to ensure no meat products are included.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it’s advisable to inquire about ingredients when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Petarukan are limited, with a few local clinics available for basic medical needs. For serious health issues, it is recommended to travel to larger towns like Purwokerto, which offer more comprehensive medical services. Travelers should consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide