Batukaras, Batukaras, always in my heart, always in my mind… Goes “the Batukaras song” which you’ll undoubtedly be familiar with if you’ve ever been lucky enough to visit this ENCHANTING fishing village in west Java.
Batukaras is slowly but surely making itself known to the world. It is home to some of Indonesia’s best longboard surfers and a peeling point break that makes even the most humble beginner feel like a pro.
This being said, it’s still relatively unchartered territory and places to stay are few and far between. This is exactly why I’ve written this guide on where to stay in Batukaras. The jungle runs right up to the ocean which is sublimely magical and I’m here to help you figure out where to base yourself in the beauty.
I’ve got you, whether you want the cheapest digs to stay as long as possible or somewhere comfortable to spend a week or a month. From how to get there to the best secret spots – or at least a few of them, some things should stay secret, right?! You’ll come for the surf and stay for the stunning people and wonderful nature surrounding this obscure beach in Java.
Let me introduce you to Batukaras.
Photo: @mariajstorey
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- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Batukaras?
- Batukaras Neighbourhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Batukaras
- Batukaras’s Three Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQs About Where to Stay in Batukaras
- What To Pack For Batukaras
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Batukaras
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Batukaras
- Buy Us a Coffee!
When you’re backpacking through Indonesia, finding a road not blocked by six-across scooters can feel like mission impossible. Getting out of Bali and into the wider islands is your first step, from there there are an overwhelming amount of possibilities. My top recommendation is Batukaras – if you’re looking for life in the slow lane; look no further!
This is where you come to kick back and relax. The agenda of the day is coffee first, surf later, rinse and repeat. To be fully free to enjoy soaking up this incredible village, let me help you find the best place to stay in Batukaras.
House of Sawah | Best Hotel in Batukaras
House of Sawah is one of the most well-known joints for boutique accommodation that won’t break the bank. Plus, they’ve got epic food at their onsite restaurant (an epic mix of Western and Indonesian food), a well-stocked bar and Taco Tuesdays. There’s a big deck for stretching out post surf and sometimes this space acts as a dancefloor if the occasion appears!
Be prepared to make some sweet four-legged friends here too. Sawah, the namesake (and boss) is a friendly dog and there’s been a super cute cow in the fields too. The only thing to consider would be that you need to be confident riding a scooter if you stay here, as it’s a bit off the beaten path.
BK Homestay | Best Hostel in Batukaras
So this beachfront accommodation isn’t technically a hostel, but it’s a private room (which can be shared) with access to a kitchen ON THE BEACH!! This is the kind of place you book for a night just to see what it’s like and end up staying for five weeks – or at least I did. Hang Five is right outside for your morning coffee with all the cash you have to splash after saving so much on accom.
Kamal runs the show here and is your go-to guy for anything Batukaras – ask him to show you the local scenes!
Melati House | Best Airbnb in Batukaras
While not on the beach, Melati House is a stunning Villa that has room for everyone and provides a welcome garden respite from the coast. You’re still within walking distance of the beach and Villa Monyet if you want to head there for brekkie… Or you can make the most of the full kitchen – which includes a water filter and an oven – a rarity in Indonesia.
Ali, the host is a lovely guy and will be more than happy to accommodate anything you need.
Pantai Batukaras
Batukaras, Batukaras, always in my heart, always in my mind… Good morning. Go surfing, Batukaras… or something like that.
Reef Break
The reef break is an A-frame wave that peels over a little reef, hence the name. This part of the coast is just a 10-minute scoot from Pantai Batukaras, past the fishing beach and has some stunning accommodation options.
Sawah
Ok if you ask anyone where Sawah is, no one’s going to know – I made it up. But, it makes sense – the accommodation in this area is surrounded by jungle and rice fields and is still just metres from the beach. I’ve picked this area as the best spot for nightlife in Batukaras but don’t come expecting clubs.
Batukaras’s Three Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Batukaras itself is tiny, it literally means “hard rock” and refers to the big rock that sticks out at the end of the beach. It’s a wonderful spot to visit after travelling around Bali and the area is based around two main surf breaks; the point and the reef. It’s an epic spot to learn to surf and there are some gems along the coast for the more intrepid shaka hunter.
While there aren’t so many different neighbourhoods in town, there is a significant range of hotels homestays guesthouses and other places to stay in Batukaras. You can choose to stay literally on the beach and I’d say the accommodation options are abundant considering the size of this little fishing village. Don’t get me wrong – this is a far cry from the hustle of the Islands of the Gods but it’s on its way – good espresso can be found.
If you want to have some sort of life/surf balance, you might decide to stay di Sawah (in the rice fields back from the coast). This area is full of local families, really peaceful and ‘underdeveloped’ which is such a sweet vibe to be a part of.
Like I said, you can stay at the beach, Pantai Batukaras, for obvious reasons: it’s dreamy, you’re learning to surf, and you’re investing in the lifestyle. There’s great coffee there, a warung on the beach as well as plenty of places to eat along the shoreline. Even if you’re not going to catch some waves, this is a beautiful place to stay, there are amazing surfboards everywhere and you’ll feel immersed in the culture.
Photo: @mariajstorey
Thirdly, you can stay closer to the Reef Break, further up the coast which will expose you to a different side of the village. This is along the beach from where the fishermen bring in their nets each evening which is a village-wide event. It’s important to note that this break is seasonal so look into when is best to go if you’re coming here to surf.
Photo: @mariajstorey
Cijulang Town is a 10ish minute scoot from Batukaras and you’ll pass through here on your way to Green Canyon if you take a trip there. Cijulang is where you’ll go for any supermarket or pharmacy needs – it’s the local town – or you can go to Pangandaran. Cijulang is also home to the only nearby ATM. Since most of BK operates on a cash basis, be sure to stock up while you’re here.
There’s an epic local market in Cijulang where you can get supplies to self-cater and a couple more ‘marts too. The market has some cool jewellery stalls and ladies selling Batik too so it’s a great stop for souvenirs and gifts for home. There isn’t a lot of accommodation in the town itself so the accommodation options I’ve listed are nearer to Cijulang than the beach.
Most importantly, Ma Engkar’s local warung is en route to Cijulang, heading inland from the beach, if you blink you’ll miss it so watch out! Ma Engkar has a very limited menu and seating but you can post up in a shack next to the river and make your way through the whole menu happily. There are some wonderful places to eat in Batukaras, but this has to be my number one and most meals are around $2!
1. Pantai Batukaras – Where to Stay in Baturakas for Your First Time
Batukaras, Batukaras, always in my heart, always in my mind… Good morning. Go surfing, Batukaras… or something like that. That’s the official song for Batukaras and you can expect to hear this if you choose to stay at Villa Monyet. Pantai is the Indonesian word for beach and this Batukaras beach is long.
Photo: @mariajstorey
So, you want to stay at pantai for the sea, whether you’re already confident or it’s your first time. If it’s your first time, the beach is where you’ll find a board to rent, a homie to coach you on catching waves and great surf watching. The best coffee shops are here too, one is Hang Five Coffee – a very delicious, and great spot to sit and talk surf and eat croissants.
There are a bunch of local joints to eat along the beachfront too, the best is The Gorengan in a little blue shack across the road from the statue. If you’re skipping street food in Indonesia, you’re not living my friend. The other bonus of staying at Pantai Batukaras is that it’s got everything you need (in the most basic sense) so if you’re not a confident scooter rider, you’ll want to park up here.
JavaCove | Best Hotel in Pantai Batukaras
JavaCove is the ultimate beach hotel, from the 24-hour security to the sourdough in the AM, the hospitality is unparalleled. This Batukaras hotel has a pool, is literally across the street from the beach and has kind, friendly, helpful staff. JavaCove is a great option if you want a somewhat inclusive style – it’s by no means a resort, but it has some of the perks.
BK Homestay | Best Hostel in Pantai Batukaras
So this beachfront accommodation isn’t technically a hostel, but it’s a private room (which can be shared) with access to a kitchen ON THE BEACH!! This is the kind of place you book for a night just to see what it’s like and end up staying for five weeks – or at least I did. Hang Five is right outside for your morning coffee with all the cash you have to splash after saving so much on accom.
Kamal runs the show here and is your go-to guy for anything Batukaras – ask him to show you the local scenes!
Ria Homestay | Best Airbnb in Pantai Batukaras
Ria Homestay is tucked down a little street at the end of the beach, close to a mosque (light sleepers beware!). This Airbnb delivers a pretty local experience, with room for up to 10 guests so if you come through with your crew you’ll be paying local price! Within walking distance of the beach AND the lookout point, you’re in the perfect spot for everyone to enjoy the surf – whether you’re watching or riding the waves.
Top Things to Do in Pantai Batukaras
Photo: @mariajstorey
- Watch the surf from the bukit (peninsula)
- Sip coffee at Hang Five Coffee Shop and watch the surf
- Enlist the legends in serving up a night of Nasi Lewat (you’ll want to rope in a few new mates for this one)
- Rent a board and go surfing! Definitely get a lesson if you’re a first-timer.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Reef Break – Best Area to Stay in Batukaras on a Budget
The reef break is an A-frame wave that peels over a little reef, hence the name. This part of the coast is just a 10-minute scoot from Pantai Batukaras just past the fishing beach, and it has some stunning accommodation options for those looking to keep their Indo expenses down. What it’s lacking in hostels, it makes up for in guesthouses and homestays that will make you want to stay forever (are you noticing a theme here?).
Photo: @mariajstorey
Even if you don’t stay here, it’s an epic spot to come hang out, watch the surf and eat Villa Monyet’s amazing banana muffins. If you hear of a BBQ while you’re here, chances are it’ll be at Villa Moneyt too and it’s dinner and a show you won’t want to miss.
Villa Monyet | The Best Hotel at Reef Break
You’ll go bananas for this one – private bamboo bungalows that can home all the homies or the whole family. The best banana muffins in town (served with real butter!) and regular fish BBQs that locals and visitors alike flock to for a great meal and a hearty sing-a-long. The staff here are legendary locals and will help you out with anything from sussing a scooter to shuttling you to the airport.
Susan Homestay | Best Homestay at Reef Break
I’ve given you the one hostel option in this place already but Susan Homestay is another bang for your buck hook-up. With spacious, private rooms, the cheapest room + bike deal in BK and one street back from the beach, it’s a surfer’s paradise. The family who run the show here are kind and generous with their knowledge and will seek to help you with whatever they can.
Melati House | Best Airbnb at Reef Break
While not on the beach, Melati House is a stunning villa that has room for everyone and provides a welcome garden respite from the coast. You’re still within walking distance of the beach and Villa Monyet if you want to head there for brekkie… Or you can make the most of the full kitchen – including a water filter and an oven – a rarity in Indonesia.
Ali, the host is a lovely guy and will be more than happy to accommodate anything you need.
Top Things to Do at Reef Break
Photo: @mariajstorey
- Watch the surf.
- Surf.
- Get Dayat to give you a massage – he’s mobile, super friendly and deaf so find him at the beach.
3. Sawah – Best Place to Stay in Batukaras for Nightlife
Ok if you ask anyone where Sawah is, no one’s going to know – I made it up. But, it makes sense – the accommodation in this area is surrounded by jungle and rice fields and is still just metres from the beach. I’ve picked this area as the best spot for nightlife in Batukaras but don’t come expecting clubs. But still, it’s really one of the most underrated and beautiful places in Indonesia if you ask me.
Photo: @mariajstorey
Taco Tuesdays at House of Sawah pop off. Spicy Margs are on! Whenever there’s an occasion or someone feels like rustling up a band, the deck-cum-dancefloor at HOS is like a beacon hailing good times.
House of Sawah | Best Hotel in Sawah
House of Sawah is one of the most well-known joints for boutique accommodation that won’t break the bank. Plus, they’ve got epic food at their onsite restaurant (an epic mix of Western and Indonesian food), a well-stocked bar and Taco Tuesdays. There’s a big deck for stretching out post surf and sometimes this space acts as a dancefloor if the occasion appears!
Be prepared to make some sweet four-legged friends here too. Sawah, the namesake (and boss) is a friendly dog and there’s been a friendly cow in the fields too. The only thing to consider would be that you need to be confident riding a scooter if you stay here, it’s a bit off the beaten path.
De Jarwo House | Best Hostel in Sawah
The only official hostel in the area is De Jarwo House which sleeps 10 people in one mixed-bed dorm. There are the usual trusty hostel perks like self-catering facilities, a sunny outdoor area to lounge and free wifi if you’ve got jobs on. The schedule of surf eat sleep repeat is pretty accommodating to the digital nomad lifestyle so book yourself a stay at this hostel.
Villa DiKebun | Best Airbnb in Sawah
This villa will have you never wanting to leave – from the most epic mosquito net in history to the (cold) outdoor jungle shower. Unlock tropical paradise staying at this Airbnb with the convenience of your own kitchen (including an oven!) and the comfort of multiple hammock setups. This is an epic place to stay and with two rooms there’s an opportunity to sleep up to four people.
Top Things to Do in Sawah
Photo: @mariajstorey
- Walk down to the beach at sunset to watch the fishermen haul in their catch of the day.
- Wander along through the back streets (most of which are still dirt paths) and make friends with the locals.
- Watch surfers at the Reef Break or give it a go yourself!
- Take a surf trip with Ali and visit Green Canyon
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in Batukaras
Here’s what people usually ask about the best neighbourhoods and accommodations in Batukaras.
What To Pack For Batukaras
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for Indonesia is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
How Do I Get to Batukaras?
I’m glad you asked!
Getting to Batukaras is an adventure in itself and leaving it is 10 times harder. The first time I went, I caught a flight to Java from Bali, a train from Jakarta to Banjar and a local bus from Banjar to Cijulang. In Cijulang I was picked up by my soon-to-be Batukaras bestie, Kamal. But you can also just fly straight to Cijulang, word is there’s about to be a new airline flying in so here’s to friendly competition bringing prices down.
You can also drive from Yogjakarta (or anywhere, really) – get in touch with your accommodation for the best way to get into Batukaras.
Where to Stay in Batukaras for Couples?
If you’re looking for a bit of jungle loving and are on a romantic vacay you can’t beat Villa Monyet. It’s private and close to the reef if you surf. Do keep in mind though that Batukaras is a small Muslim village so be respectful and keep the PDA lowkey.
Can You Eat Street Food in Batukaras?
Eating street food is always a risky venture, but simultaneously, the best food you will potentially eat in a country. If you choose to eat street, power to you and good luck and enjoy! The selection of street food is pretty mobile in BK with people carting (often sweet) treats around on old bicycles.
There is an epic local food scene here though, be sure to try it out. Most of my favourite warungs in Bali are owned by Javanese so this is the source of the sauce so to speak.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Batukaras
Travelling without insurance Is crazy. Get good insurance sorted before you head off on your adventure.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Batukaras
I hope you loved my all-time top rated where to stay in Batukaras guide! I truly adored my time here and can’t wait to come back, this is paradise if you love to kick back. There are so many stunning beaches to explore, beautiful people to meet, cruisey waves to ride and sensational food to eat.
With lovely locals who are itching to hang out and show you their home town whatever you’re into, whether it’s clambering through rivers or shredding waves. Shredding may be a bit of a stretch if it’s your first time but that’s all good too! Whatever’s welcome in Batukaras, Batu Karas, always in my heart, always in my mind.
My favourite place to stay would have to be House of Sawah, it’s intimate, has epic food, kind staff and it’s comfortable enough for a long stay. The only thing to consider would be that you need to be confident riding a scooter if you stay here. But if you’re posting up for a while, it’s probably the most cosy and has the best wifi if you’re on the digital nomad buzz.
If you’re running a cheaper operation, BK Homestay is unbeatable. It’s humble, you CANNOT match the location, and the host is so friendly and will show you the best of BK without a doubt. I had such a special time here and I hope you do too.
I hope my guide on where to stay in Batukaras has helped you decide where you want to stay on your trip to Batukaras. Batukaras Indonesia is a hidden gem. I’m not just talking about the colour of the water, whether you’re tripping up Green Canyon or watching the sunset from the Bukit – it’s stunning.
Have you been to Batukaras? Or do you have more questions? Hit me up in the comments, I’d love to chat!
Photo: @mariajstorey
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