Discover the charm of Gili Ketapang, a popular marine tourism destination in Probolinggo that offers beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and other exciting activities. Enjoy a relaxing holiday on this exotic island!
Probolinggo, a city in East Java that is famous for its natural beauty, has many interesting tourist destinations. One of the most prominent is Gili Ketapang, a small island located in the Madura Strait, not far from the coast of Probolinggo.
Gili Ketapang has become a popular marine tourism destination thanks to its beautiful underwater scenery, white sandy beaches, and tranquil island atmosphere.
This island is perfect for tourists looking for a relaxing holiday with stunning ocean views and fun tourist activities.
Location and Access to Gili Ketapang
Gili Ketapang is located approximately 8 kilometers from the north coast of Probolinggo. To reach this island, visitors must cross by boat from Tanjung Tembaga Harbor, Probolinggo.
The boat trip takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on weather conditions and waves. Along the way, tourists can enjoy the calming sea views, with calm blue water and gentle breezes.
Tanjung Tembaga Harbor itself is easily accessible from the city center of Probolinggo, either by private vehicle or public transportation.
After arriving at the harbor, tourists can easily find a boat ready to take them to Gili Ketapang. A trip to this island is usually part of an exciting adventure, especially for tourists who have never sailed at sea.
History and Myths of Gili Ketapang
Gili Ketapang has an interesting history and is related to a legend believed by the local community. According to folklore, this island was once part of the Javanese mainland that was “detached” due to tectonic shifts and moved to the middle of the sea.
The name “Ketapang” itself is taken from the name of a tree that grew abundantly on this island in the past.
In addition, Gili Ketapang is also associated with a legend about a spiritual figure named Kyai Abdullah. According to the story, Kyai Abdullah was a figure who led the community on this island and was known as an influential figure.
Until now, the tomb of Kyai Abdullah is still in Gili Ketapang and is one of the places frequently visited by people who want to make a pilgrimage.
The Natural Beauty of Gili Ketapang
Gili Ketapang is famous for its stunning natural beauty, especially its expansive white sandy beaches and clear sea water. This beauty attracts many tourists who want to enjoy a holiday in a calm and peaceful atmosphere.
With views of blue seas and clear skies, this island is the perfect place to relax and unwind from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The beach in Gili Ketapang has relatively calm waves, making it suitable for various water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and playing in the sand.
The clear sea water allows tourists to see the beauty of the underwater world clearly, including pristine coral reefs and small fish swimming around it.
Tourist Activities in Gili Ketapang
Gili Ketapang offers a variety of interesting tourist activities for visitors. Here are some exciting activities that can be enjoyed on this island:
1. Snorkeling
One of the main attractions of Gili Ketapang is its underwater beauty. Snorkeling on this island is a favorite activity for tourists. The clear sea water allows visitors to see the beauty of the coral reefs and various types of ornamental fish that live in the waters around the island.
Some snorkeling service providers even offer complete equipment and guides who are ready to accompany tourists to enjoy the beauty of the underwater world.
For snorkeling lovers, Gili Ketapang is a hidden paradise that must be visited. The coral reefs here are still relatively well-preserved, so the beauty of the underwater world is very enchanting.
Colorful fish and various other marine life will spoil your eyes while diving in the shallow waters around the island.
2. Playing on the Beach
The beach at Gili Ketapang has fine, clean white sand, very suitable for walking or playing in the sand with family.
The calm waves also make this beach safe for children who want to play by the sea. Tourists can sit under the shade of trees while enjoying the sea view or feeling the warmth of the tropical sun.
In addition, visitors can also enjoy relaxing on the stretch of sand while enjoying fresh young coconut drinks sold in several stalls around the beach.
The calm atmosphere and beautiful scenery on this beach provide an opportunity for tourists to relax and enjoy their time in a relaxed manner.
3. Take a Boat
Tourists can also rent a boat to go around Gili Ketapang and enjoy the view of the island from the sea.
Taking a boat ride on the calm sea provides a pleasant experience, especially for those who want to enjoy the sea panorama from a different perspective. Some boat service providers also offer short tours to the best snorkeling spots around the island.
4. Fishing
For fishing enthusiasts, Gili Ketapang also offers spots that are suitable for fishing. The sea around the island is rich in fish, and many tourists come to enjoy sea fishing activities. You can rent fishing equipment or bring your own equipment to take advantage of fishing time here.
5. Pilgrimage
For tourists who are interested in local history and culture, a pilgrimage to the tomb of Kyai Abdullah can be an interesting activity.
This tomb is one of the historical sites in Gili Ketapang, and many visitors come to pray and reflect on spiritual life here. Pilgrimage to this tomb is also part of religious tourism on this island.
Facilities at Gili Ketapang
As a popular tourist destination, Gili Ketapang is equipped with several adequate facilities to support tourist comfort. Some of the facilities available on this island include:
- Food Stalls : There are several stalls selling food and soft drinks, so visitors don’t need to worry if they want to have lunch or enjoy a snack.
- Snorkeling Equipment Rental : For those who do not bring snorkeling equipment, there is a complete snorkeling equipment rental service, including life jackets.
- Simple Accommodation : Although there are not many, there are several simple accommodations on Gili Ketapang that can be rented by tourists who want to spend the night on this island.
Conclusion
Gili Ketapang is a charming marine tourism destination in Probolinggo, East Java. With beautiful beaches, stunning underwater beauty, and various interesting activities to enjoy, Gili Labak Beach is the right choice for tourists who want to enjoy a relaxing holiday in a calm natural atmosphere.
If you are planning to visit Probolinggo, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the beauty of Gili Ketapang and enjoy the extraordinary charm of marine nature.
