Ngandong Beach, Gunungkidul

Indonesia has no shortage of beaches. The problem is that all the ones in the guide books are crowded. Finding a quiet beach near a popular tourist destination is a challenge few manage to accomplish without local knowledge. While I don’t want to spoil all the pristine places, I am willing to divulge of one deserted beach located near Yogyakarta.

This beach, known as Pantai Ngandong, is off-the-beaten-path and not serviced by any buses, becaks or ojeks; you will need to rent a motorcycle and find this place yourself. If you succeed, you will be rewarded with a perfect little piece of paradise—gentle waves, clean sand and pristine landscape. And, of course, an amazing view and uncluttered skyline.
A local family lives on the easternmost side of the beach. They will happily cook up food—ranging from IndoMie to fresh caught seafood—for any guests on their beach. Nearby, there are a couple of small bungalows that the family will rent out for any groups that decide to stay overnight. There is nothing inside of them except for basic beds, squat toilets and a few electrical outlets. However, they are at least relatively sand-free, so they got that going for them.