Located within the Meru Betiri National Park in East Java, Indonesia, Sukamade Beach is a hidden gem known as one of the best places in the country to witness sea turtles nesting in their natural habitat. Far from the bustling cities, this remote beach offers visitors not just pristine beauty, but also a rare chance to connect with nature and conservation.
Sukamade Beach is one of the few places in Indonesia where several species of sea turtles—including the Green Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle, Olive Ridley Turtle, and Leatherback Turtle—come ashore to lay their eggs. The beach is managed as a turtle conservation site, protecting these endangered creatures and their fragile ecosystem.
The highlight of visiting Sukamade is the night tour, where visitors are guided to the beach under the moonlight to quietly observe female turtles as they crawl ashore, dig holes, and lay dozens of eggs. This magical and humbling experience is one of the most unforgettable encounters with wildlife in Indonesia.
Another heartwarming activity at Sukamade is the release of baby turtles (hatchlings) into the sea. Visitors can take part in this conservation effort, watching the tiny hatchlings make their first journey across the sand into the ocean—a symbol of hope for the survival of their species.
Reaching Sukamade is an adventure in itself. Travelers must pass through dense forests, rivers, and rugged terrain within Meru Betiri National Park. The remoteness of the location ensures that the beach remains unspoiled, offering a peaceful escape surrounded by pure nature.
Sea turtles come to Sukamade almost year-round, but the peak nesting season is usually between October and March. Visitors are advised to stay overnight at the simple guesthouses near the conservation area to fully enjoy both the night turtle tour and the morning hatchling release.
Sukamade Beach is not just a travel destination—it is a journey into the heart of conservation and natural wonder. Watching giant sea turtles laying eggs under the stars and releasing baby turtles into the ocean is a rare privilege that few places in the world can offer.
For nature lovers, adventurers, and families alike, Sukamade promises an experience that is both educational and deeply inspiring.
