
Pramuka Island
Pramuka Island: a conservation hub in Jakarta's Thousand Islands, offering turtle sanctuaries, snorkeling, and local homestays.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer waters for snorkeling

Pramuka Island
Best Time
Clearer waters for snorkeling

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Pramuka Island: a conservation hub in Jakarta's Thousand Islands, offering turtle sanctuaries, snorkeling, and local homestays.
"Witness sea turtles and vibrant corals, but be mindful of plastic pollution impacting underwater views."

Rent an E-bike
Explore the island at your own pace with an electric motorbike. Easy and fun! :scooter:
Try Local Street Food
Don't miss the delicious street food, especially banana choco cheese. A must-try! :banana: :chocolatebar: :cheesewedge:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Turtle Conservation Center
Various locations on the island
Witness firsthand how locals protect turtles from extinction. A truly heartwarming and educational experience.

Snorkeling and Diving Spots
Reef Garden near RPTRA Elang, offshore areas
Explore vibrant underwater life with colorful corals and diverse fish species. Keep an eye out for sea turtles!
Mangrove Exploration
Island's coastline
Discover the unique ecosystem of the island's mangroves, a vital habitat for various marine life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace Island Life
Conservation Focus
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
First time visiting Jakarta.
Rent an E-bike
Explore the island at your own pace with an electric motorbike. Easy and fun! :scooter:
Try Local Street Food
Don't miss the delicious street food, especially banana choco cheese. A must-try! :banana: :chocolatebar: :cheesewedge:
Planning a trip to Indonesia what is must-see?
Island recommendations near Jakarta
Waterproof Camera Essential
Capture stunning underwater photos and videos of marine life. :camerawithflash:
Learn Basic Indonesian
A few local phrases go a long way, as English isn't widely spoken. Use a translator! :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
Rent an E-bike
Explore the island at your own pace with an electric motorbike. Easy and fun! :scooter:
Try Local Street Food
Don't miss the delicious street food, especially banana choco cheese. A must-try! :banana: :chocolatebar: :cheesewedge:
Waterproof Camera Essential
Capture stunning underwater photos and videos of marine life. :camerawithflash:
Learn Basic Indonesian
A few local phrases go a long way, as English isn't widely spoken. Use a translator! :iphone:
Respect Wildlife
Be mindful of the conservation efforts, especially with turtles. Avoid touching or disturbing them. :turtle:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Pramuka Island is praised for its unique conservation efforts, particularly with sea turtles, and its beautiful underwater scenery for snorkeling. Visitors enjoy the local street food and the relaxed island vibe, though some note issues with plastic pollution affecting water clarity and a prevalence of stray cats.
"Went here for diving in end of July. The weather was cloudy with no sun almost seen, so the water visibility is less clear.
But in some spot, we can still see the corals within deeper range.
The coral was pretty, and there were many small fish around.
Saw turtle too hiding in the coral.
Had a great time watching the underwater life here."
Monica Ca
"Went here for a school science trip and had lots of fun! Accomodation was satisfactory from what I was expecting (except maybe the amount of stray cats). Street food is a MUST try here. Nice place to take pictures and create memories! Interesting to learn about the environment and wildlife conservation that the island is doing. Can get scary if the weather decides to rain with lightning, but nonetheless, a nice getaway from the city life."
Arsenio Christianto
"One of the best island if you visit thousand island..
Good for snorkeling. Just the waters near the land is dark and dirty but if you go out and explore more in boat you will love this place.There's always a local language problem here so you need to keep your google translater handy for conveying your message.Few people understand little bit of english..Near pramuka island you can find beautiful restaurant where sea food is served.Don't forgot to take waterproof camera if you want to take your own snorkeling pictures.."
Ishan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Pramuka Island, you'll typically need to travel to a harbor like Marina Ancol in North Jakarta. From there, you can take a public ferry or a speedboat to the Thousand Islands, with Pramuka being a common stop. The journey can take a few hours depending on the type of boat and sea conditions.
The island is relatively small and walkable. For longer distances or a more leisurely exploration, renting an electric motorbike is a popular and convenient option.
Direct services might be limited, and often you'll need to go via Marina Ancol. It's advisable to check the latest ferry schedules and book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Travel time can vary significantly, but expect anywhere from 2 to 4 hours by public ferry, and potentially less by speedboat.
Yes, private boat transfers can be arranged, offering more flexibility but at a higher cost. This is a good option for groups or those seeking a more direct route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There isn't typically an entrance fee for the island itself, but you will need to pay for boat transportation to get there. Some conservation areas or specific activities might have small fees.
The turtle conservation center is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit during the day to observe the turtles and learn from the staff.
It's highly recommended to book your homestay in advance, especially if you plan to visit during weekends or holidays, to ensure availability.
While snorkeling itself is free, some designated spots or tours might have associated costs. It's always good to inquire locally.
Yes, day trips are possible, but to truly experience the island's charm and conservation efforts, an overnight stay is recommended.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visibility can vary. While some spots near the shore might be murky due to plastics, venturing further out by boat reveals clearer waters with beautiful corals and fish. The dry season generally offers better conditions.
Pramuka Island is known for its turtle conservation efforts, so you'll likely see sea turtles. The waters are also home to various small fish and corals. Mangrove areas support diverse marine life.
Yes, some visitors have noted a significant number of stray cats on the island. While they add to the local character, be aware if you have allergies.
Mobile signal can be spotty in certain areas of the island. It's advisable to download offline maps and essential information before you arrive.
Pack light clothing, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and a waterproof camera. Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are also recommended.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find local eateries and street food stalls offering Indonesian cuisine. Seafood is a specialty, with restaurants serving fresh catches. Don't miss trying local snacks like banana choco cheese.
Yes, several restaurants on or near Pramuka Island specialize in serving fresh seafood, often with beautiful sea views.
Options might be limited, but you can usually find basic vegetarian dishes like nasi goreng (fried rice) or mie goreng (fried noodles) at local warungs. It's best to inquire beforehand.
Banana choco cheese is a highly recommended local sweet treat. Exploring street food stalls will reveal other delicious options.
Food prices are generally affordable, especially if you opt for local warungs and street food. Dining at more established restaurants might be slightly pricier.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise views at dawn are spectacular. The mangrove areas offer unique natural shots, and the turtle conservation center provides heartwarming photo opportunities. Underwater photography is also a highlight.
A waterproof camera or a waterproof phone case is highly recommended for capturing the vibrant marine life while snorkeling or diving.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful, especially when photographing people or sensitive conservation areas. Ask for permission when in doubt.
Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for golden hour light offer the best natural lighting. Midday can be harsh, but good for underwater shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone to avoid issues.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When it comes to accommodation, homestays provide a more immersive experience. Be prepared for the presence of stray cats, which can be an interesting point of interaction for children. Packing plenty of sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent is crucial for keeping everyone comfortable. While food options are generally local, most places can accommodate simpler requests for children.
🐠 Snorkelers & Divers
It's highly recommended to bring your own waterproof camera or a reliable underwater housing for your phone to capture the beauty beneath the waves. Consider booking boat trips to explore the best snorkeling and diving spots, as these often lead to areas with the clearest water and most abundant marine ecosystems. The dry season generally offers the most favorable conditions for underwater exploration.
🌿 Eco-Conscious Travelers
Choosing to stay in homestays supports the local community directly and offers a more sustainable travel experience. Renting electric motorbikes for transport also aligns with eco-friendly practices. By engaging respectfully with the local environment and culture, travelers can contribute positively to Pramuka Island's ongoing conservation efforts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Pramuka Island's Conservation Efforts
Beyond turtles, the island also focuses on mangrove preservation, recognizing their importance as nurseries for marine species and natural coastal defenses. Exploring these mangrove areas offers a glimpse into a unique ecosystem. However, a persistent issue highlighted by visitors is the presence of plastic pollution in the waters, which detracts from the natural beauty and impacts diving conditions. Efforts are ongoing to combat this, and visitors are encouraged to be mindful of their waste.
This focus on conservation provides a unique educational aspect to a visit. It's a chance to connect with nature on a deeper level and appreciate the importance of protecting our oceans. Travelers often leave with a greater understanding of environmental challenges and the positive impact of community-led conservation initiatives.
Navigating Pramuka Island: Transportation and Local Life
Local life on Pramuka Island is characterized by its close-knit community and a strong connection to the sea. You'll encounter friendly locals, often engaged in fishing or managing homestays. While English proficiency can be limited, a willingness to communicate and perhaps a handy translation app can bridge any language gaps, making interactions more rewarding. The island also has a notable population of stray cats, which are a common sight and add to the island's unique charm for many visitors.
When it comes to dining, Pramuka Island offers a taste of authentic Indonesian cuisine. Street food is a highlight, with vendors serving up delicious local treats. Seafood lovers will rejoice at the fresh catches available at local restaurants. Don't miss out on trying popular snacks like banana choco cheese, which are frequently mentioned as a must-try.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit