Things To Do
in Tanjungbalai
Tanjungbalai is a coastal city in North Sumatra, Indonesia, perched on the northeastern shore along the Strait of Malacca. It has a working fishing harbor that shapes daily life, with buzzing markets and boats bobbing at the quays. The town blends Malay and Batak influences, offering approachable seafood cuisine and a relaxed, authentic Southeast Asian atmosphere.
Nearby wetlands, rivers, and mangroves provide easy day trips for nature lovers and photographers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Tanjungbalai Grand Mosque, a stunning example of Islamic architecture that captures the city's cultural heritage. Afterward, stroll through the local markets where you can mingle with vendors selling fresh produce and traditional handicrafts. Enjoy a traditional Indonesian breakfast at one of the local cafes, savoring dishes like Nasi Goreng or Bubur Ayam.
In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour of the historic sites, including the remnants of colonial buildings that offer a glimpse into Tanjungbalai's past. Visit the local museum to learn about the area's history, including its role in trade and cultural exchanges. Conclude your afternoon with a relaxing lunch at a riverside restaurant, enjoying the view of the bustling river traffic.
As the sun sets, head to the waterfront promenade for a scenic walk, watching fishermen bring in their daily catch. Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant, sampling fresh grilled fish and shrimp dishes. End your evening by immersing yourself in the vibrant nightlife, possibly attending a local music performance or festival if available.
Start your day early by heading to the beautiful beaches of Tanjungbalai, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Engage in some beachcombing or simply relax with a good book as the gentle waves lap against the shore. Indulge in a hearty breakfast at a beachfront café, enjoying fresh fruit and traditional pastries.
The afternoon is perfect for exhilarating water sports, such as jet skiing, banana boat rides, or kayaking in the clear waters. Join a local operator for a guided snorkeling trip to explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life just off the coast. Enjoy a beach picnic for lunch, featuring local snacks like Pisang Goreng (fried bananas) and fresh coconut water.
As dusk approaches, settle in for a beachside barbecue dinner, where you can grill your own seafood while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean. After dinner, enjoy a bonfire on the beach, sharing stories and laughter with fellow travelers and locals. Wrap up the night by stargazing, taking in the tranquil beauty of the night sky over the ocean.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🚕Local transportation (one-way) | $0.25-0.75 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-2 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $15-40 |
| 🛵Scooter rental per day | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed coastal vibe and friendly locals
- Affordable costs and easy to reach from Medan
- Limited nightlife and fewer major tourist attractions
- Intercity transport can be time-consuming
- "Apa rekomendasi makanan khas daerah sini?" - What are the local specialties here?
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much does it cost?
- "Tolong, satu porsi nasi goreng." - Please, one portion of fried rice.
- "Di mana lokasinya?" - Where is the location?
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Tanjungbalai
Visit one of these nice places.
Harbor and fishing boats at dawn or sunset, ideal for moody seascapes and colorful nets.
Wide sandy beach with turquoise water, palm-fringed horizons, and evening silhouettes.
Vibrant market scenes with stalls, textiles, and locals in daily activity—great for candid street photography.
Food in Tanjungbalai
Tanjungbalai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Whole fish grilled with a tangy chilli sauce and lime; best at harbor-side eateries.
Must-Try!
Fish curry in coconut milk with turmeric and lemongrass; pairs well with hot rice.
Sumatran fried rice spiked with aromatics and a touch of shrimp paste.
Clear, aromatic broth with meat or chicken, served with lime and sambal on the side.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling morning market offering fresh seafood, produce, and street snacks with locals bargaining in lively aisles.
Coastal culinary hub featuring grills, fried snacks, and small stalls near the waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake and a smile are common; using Indonesian phrases for greetings is appreciated.
Dress modestly in religious sites; remove shoes where required; avoid pointing with feet and keep voices respectful in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Tanjungbalai
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated for good service but not mandatory; small tips (around 5–10%) are common in nicer restaurants or for guiding services.
Cash (Rupiah) is widely accepted; many places also take debit/credit cards in larger hotels and sit-down restaurants, while street vendors prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny days with low rainfall; ideal for outdoor markets, harbor strolls, and beach outings.
Frequent showers and high humidity; plan indoor visits or short boat trips when seas are calm.
Tanjungbalai at Night
Hiking in Tanjungbalai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy trails along the coast and nearby low hills with mangrove views and sea breezes.
Short forest hikes featuring shade, birdlife, and river scenery suitable for a half-day trip.
Airports
How to reach Tanjungbalai by plane.
Main international gateway for Medan and North Sumatra; about 3–4 hours by road depending on traffic.
Smaller airport serving North Tapanuli and nearby regions; useful for domestic flights and charters.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous groups with rich cultural traditions; speak Batak languages alongside Indonesian.
Major coastal and urban groups; Malay influences shape local customs and cuisine.
A small but active community contributing to trade and the local food scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in town; local leagues and pickup games are common.
Widely played at community centers and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tanjungbalai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose plant-based options like tempeh, tofu, and vegetables; request no meat broth and ask for separate cooking utensils to avoid cross-contact.