Sibolga
A Coastal Gem in North Sumatra
Sibolga, a municipality in North Sumatra, is renowned for its captivating natural attractions. Geographically, the city is located on the western coast of Sumatra Island, stretching from north to south.
Sibolga is about 350 km from Medan, the capital of the province. To get there, travelers can rent a car with a driver. For example, Avanza Medan offers this service. Usually, the drive takes around 8 hours. However, the travel time can change depending on traffic.
In the past, Sibolga was the capital of the Tapanuli Residency. Today, most of the city lies along the coast. Because of this, it is often called “Sibolga, the City of Fish.” As a result, many tourist spots in Sibolga are found near its beaches.
In addition to its coastal allure, Sibolga also boasts a strong traditional culture and several historical sites that are of great interest to visitors. But what other fascinating tourist destinations can one find in this “Fish City”? Let’s explore the complete review below.
Pandan Beach: A Serene Coastal Oasis in Sibolga
For many people, spending time at the beach is a favorite holiday tradition. The sound of waves crashing is very calming. The soft sea breeze feels nice. Plus, the ocean views are beautiful. These are the main reasons why visitors love coastal spots.
In Sibolga, Pandan Beach is well known for its natural beauty. It lies on Jl. Sisingamangaraja, Padang Sidempuan, Pandan, Central Tapanuli, North Sumatra. This beautiful coastline is a must-visit for travelers to the area.
Pandan Beach in Sibolga is renowned for its fine, white sand that offers a comfortable and enjoyable walking experience. The waves at this beach are relatively gentle, allowing visitors to safely play and frolic along the shoreline.
Even if you don’t want to swim, Pandan Beach is still a great place to relax. You can sit on the sand and enjoy the view of the sea. Also, the entry fee is very cheap. This makes it easy for anyone to visit and enjoy this coastal gem in Sibolga.
Kalimantung Island: A Serene Slice of Beach Perfection Near Sibolga
Kalimantung Island is near the famous Mursala Island. It is also a popular tourist spot close to Sibolga. Unlike Mursala, no one lives on Kalimantung. However, many travelers love its natural beauty. For this reason, people often say it is one of Indonesia’s most beautiful beaches.
Located in Central Tapanuli, the island offers a peaceful and quiet setting. Moreover, its beaches are clean and untouched. Tall coconut trees line the smooth, white sand, making the view feel both exotic and relaxing.
For those who love snorkeling and diving, Kalimantung Island is a perfect place. In fact, the marine life here is rich and still very well-preserved. As a result, visitors can enjoy a colorful and exciting underwater world.
Even though the island is beautiful, it has only basic facilities. At the moment, visitors can use restrooms, rent mats, or relax under simple gazebos. However, there are no food stalls or places to stay overnight.
Still, Kalimantung Island is a great choice for anyone looking for a quiet and natural beach escape. Overall, it is one of the must-visit spots in the Sibolga area of North Sumatra.
Mursala Island: A Natural Wonder in Sibolga Backyard
One of the top tourist spots near Sibolga is Mursala Island. What makes it special is a rare natural feature—a beautiful waterfall that flows straight from a high cliff into the sea.
When visitors arrive, they are quickly amazed by the waterfall and the wide ocean views. In addition, the island became more famous after it was used as a filming location for the 2005 movie King Kong.
Since that time, more tourists—both local and international—have come to see Mursala Island’s natural beauty. To get there, travelers can go to Tapian Nauli I, Tapian Nauli, in Central Tapanuli.
Whether you come for the waterfall, the clean beaches, or its movie history, Mursala Island offers a fun and unforgettable experience. Without a doubt, it is a true gem near Sibolga.
Batu Gajah Beach: Where Geological Wonders Meet the Shoreline in Sibolga
Unlike the usual white sandy beaches in Indonesia, Batu Gajah Beach offers something unique. Located in Hajoran, Pandan, and Tapteng near Sibolga, it features huge rock formations that look like giant elephants.
These “elephant rocks” sit in the tidal zone. When the sea pulls back, visitors can walk up to them and see their full size. The tall rocks stand out sharply against the ocean, making the beach a favorite spot for photographers.
Adding to the appeal of this geological wonder is a viewing tower that has become a favorite spot for tourists to capture breathtaking panoramic shots of the beach and its surroundings. From this elevated vantage point, visitors can fully appreciate the captivating beauty of this one-of-a-kind coastal landscape.
So far, the local government has done little to develop Batu Gajah Beach. Even so, its unique charm makes it a great place to visit in Sibolga. Getting there can be a bit difficult. However, seeing and getting close to the huge “elephant rocks” is a special experience that makes the trip worth it.