Merak Kecil Island in Banten offers the charm of white sandy beaches, snorkeling with beautiful marine life, exciting camping areas, and a calm atmosphere that is perfect for a relaxing holiday away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Merak Kecil Island has an interesting history that is closely related to Merak Besar Island. In the past, both were one land mass. However, due to erosion and natural changes, Merak Kecil Island finally separated and stood alone.
It is said that the name “Merak” comes from the many peacocks that used to live in the area. Unfortunately, the peacocks are now rarely seen even though the environment remains beautiful and well-maintained.
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The Attraction of Little Merak Island
Despite its small size, Pulau Merak Kecil has a variety of natural beauty and exciting activities that make it worth visiting. Here are some of the main attractions you can find on this island:
1. Clean White Sandy Beach
Merak Kecil Island has a beach with soft white sand and clear blue sea water. If you’re looking for Things to do in Cilegon, this destination offers relaxing activities such as taking a leisurely stroll along the beach, playing in the sand, or simply enjoying the refreshing sea breeze.
2. Snorkeling Spot with Clear Waters
For snorkeling enthusiasts, Pulau Merak Kecil offers a stunning underwater experience. Its clear seawater allows you to see various marine life such as colorful fish, coral reefs, and other sea creatures clearly.
3. Camping Area on the Beach
Pulau Merak Kecil provides a camping area for tourists who want to stay under the stars. The quiet night atmosphere, the sound of the waves, and the panorama of ships passing by around Merak Harbor create an unforgettable camping experience.
4. Exciting Water Games
For those of you who like playing in the water, Pulau Merak Kecil offers a variety of interesting rides such as banana boats, donut boats, and speed boats. The price offered is also quite pocket-friendly, which is only IDR 30,000 per person for one game.
5. Calm and Soothing Atmosphere
This island is far from the hustle and bustle of the city, making it the perfect destination for those who want to relax and unwind. Pulau Merak Kecil presents a peaceful atmosphere that is suitable for finding peace amidst the daily hustle and bustle.
Location and Route to Merak Kecil Island
Merak Kecil Island is located in Pulomerak District, Cilegon Regency, Banten. To reach this island, you have to cross by boat from Mabak Beach.
- From Cilegon City: You can use private vehicles with a travel time of around 20 minutes or around 12 km.
- From Jakarta by Public Transportation: Take the train from Tanah Abang Station to Rangkasbitung Station, then continue by local train to Merak Station. From there, you can take a red angkot for around Rp5,000 to Mabak Beach.
Travel Costs on Merak Kecil Island
A vacation to Pulau Merak Kecil is known to be quite affordable. Here is an estimate of the costs you need to prepare:
- Boat Crossing Ticket: 15,000 (round trip)
- Island Cleaning Fee: Rp2,000
- Public transportation fare from Merak Station to Mabak Beach: IDR 5,000
- Rent a Banana Boat/Speed Boat/Donut Boat: 30,000 per ride
- Camping Fee: 125,000 for tent rental
Fun Activities to Do on Merak Kecil Island
1. Swimming at the Beach
The beach on Merak Kecil Island has quite calm waves and is not too deep, so it is safe for swimming, even for children.
2. Snorkeling in Clear Waters
Merak Kecil Island offers an interesting snorkeling experience with clear sea water and rich marine life.
If you want a more amazing snorkeling experience, you can try snorkeling at Merak Besar Island which is only about 5-10 minutes away by boat.
The tour operator provides a complete snorkeling package for 5 people for IDR 420,000 which includes:
- Complete snorkeling equipment
- Transportation to Merak Besar Island
- Underwater photos
- Bread for fish feed
- Experienced tour guide
3. Tour the Island by Speed Boat
For those of you who want to explore the island from the other side, there are speed boats that can be rented for IDR 30,000 per person to go around the island.
4. The Fun of Playing Banana Boat
This exciting activity is perfect for those of you who come with friends or family. With a rate of only IDR 30,000, you can feel the sensation of gliding on the water with a banana boat that challenges your adrenaline.
5. Camping in the Open Air
Merak Kecil Island provides a fairly large camping area. You can choose to camp under the trees in the Moon Garden or in the rocky area with expanses of reeds at the top of the island.
- Camping Fee: IDR 20,000 for general public and IDR 10,000 for students
- Tent Rental: 125,000 – Rp. 200,000 (depending on capacity)
6. Enjoy the beautiful sunset
Watching the sunset on Merak Kecil Island is an experience you should not miss. The golden orange sky reflecting on the surface of the sea creates a stunning sunset panorama.
The peak of Merak Kecil Island is a favorite spot for taking photos with the backdrop of ships passing in the distance, creating a very stunning view.
Tips for Visiting Little Merak Island
To make your trip to Merak Kecil Island more comfortable and enjoyable, here are some tips you can follow:
- Come in the morning to enjoy the various activities longer.
- Bring snorkeling equipment if you want to save on rental costs.
- Wear comfortable clothing that is suitable for beach activities.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the hot sun.
- Make sure you bring food and drink supplies because stalls around the island are still limited.
Merak Kecil Island is one of the Tourist Attractions in Pandeglang that offers natural beauty, exciting water activities, and tranquility that is perfect for relieving fatigue.
With affordable prices and an easily accessible location, this island is the right choice for those of you who want to vacation without having to go far from Jakarta.
If you are looking for a vacation spot that offers the beauty of natural beaches with a peaceful atmosphere, Pulau Merak Kecil is the right choice for you to visit!
