Parangtritis is located 27 km south of Yogyakarta and easily accessible by public transportation that operate up to 17:00pm as well as private vehicles. The afternoon before sunset is the best time to visit this most popular beach in Yogyakarta. But if you arrive sooner, it will not hurt for going up to Tebing Gembirawati (Gembirawati cliffs) behind this beach. From there, we can see the whole area of Parangtritis Beach, southern sea, up to the horizon.
Not many people know that on the east side of this clifft, hidden temple ruins. Unlike the other temples located in a mountainous area, Gembirawati Temple is only a few hundred meters from the edge of Parangtritis Beach. To reach this temple, we can pass road uphill near the Hotel Queen of the South and then go down the path to the west for approximately 100 meters. Faintly roar of the ferocious waves of the southern sea could be heard from this temple.
Parangtritis Beach is very closely related to the legend of Ratu Kidul (Queen of South). Many Javanese people believe that Parangtritis Beach is the gate of Ratu Kidul’s magical kingdom who controls the southern sea. Hotel Queen of the South is a luxurious resort that is named according to this the legend. Unfortunately the resort is now rarely, whereas it used to have a view that could make us breathless.
When the sun is leaning to the west and the weather is sunny, it is time for having fun. Although visitors are prohibited from swimming, Parangtritis Beach is not lack of the means for having fun. On the beach there is ATVs (All-terrain Vehicle) rental, the tariff is around Rp. 50.000 to 100.000 per half hour. Enter its gear and then release the clutch while pulling the gas. Brrooom, four-wheeled all-terrain motorcycle will be raced bringing you across the sand beach dune.
Well, ATVs may only be suitable for those who are more adventurous. Another option is the carriage. Walking along the sand surface that is smoothly swept by the wave with two-wheeled horse-drawn carriage is no less enjoyable. The carriage will bring us to the end of the east coast of Parangtritis Beach where the cluster of rocks that is so beautiful , so it is often used as the spot of a pre-wedding photo shoot. The dim twilight and golden shade of the sun on the water surface more raise a romantic atmosphere.
Parangtritis Beach also offers the excitement for those who travel with family. Kite-flying with your child is also enjoyable. The strong sea breeze is very helpful to make a kite flying high, even if you've never played a kite.
Still reluctant for going home even though the sun had set? Soon, some roasted corn sellers will hold a mat on the beach where we can hang out there until late at night. Still do not want to go home? Do not worry, in Parangtritis Beach, there are tens of inns and accommodations available at an affordable price.
