A Hidden Gem Off the Eastern Coast: Unpacking the Appeal of Belitung

Belitung, a lesser-known island off the eastern coast of Sumatra, has been quietly gaining popularity among Singaporeans and tourists alike. While Bali remains a favorite destination for beach escapes, Belitung offers a more understated experience that is worth exploring.

One key difference between the two islands lies in their respective atmospheres. Bali’s shores are lined with international restaurants and beach clubs, whereas Belitung’s landscape is dominated by granite boulders rising from white-sand beaches and shallow waters. However, this lack of polish has become a hallmark of Belitung’s appeal, attracting visitors who seek a more low-key experience.

Several Singaporeans have discovered the island’s peaceful atmosphere and are drawn back to it precisely for that reason. As one local noted, “We’re not trying to be like Bali; we’re happy being ourselves.” This unassuming approach has contributed significantly to Belitung’s growing popularity among travelers.

Granite Giants and UNESCO Status

Belitung’s most striking feature is its granite boulders, which have earned the island and surrounding islands UNESCO Global Geopark status. These towering formations are not only breathtakingly beautiful but also offer a unique glimpse into the geological history of the region. The sheer size of these boulders – some sit alone at sea while others are piled against one another to create passageways and sheltered pools – is awe-inspiring.

Island-hopping takes center stage on Belitung, with visitors typically making five or six stops along the way. Each island offers its own distinct character, from Batu Berlayar’s shallow waters perfect for swimming to Lengkuas’ historic lighthouse built by the Dutch colonial government in 1882. The most recognizable feature of Lengkuas is not the lighthouse itself but rather the name – a local legend claims that the word “Lengkuas” originated from residents articulating the word “lighthouse,” which eventually became shortened to its current form.

Underwater Exploration and Diving

While Belitung may not offer the same level of diving opportunities as Raja Ampat or Komodo, its relatively shallow waters and straightforward dive sites make it an ideal destination for newer divers and snorkelers. For the more adventurous, the Indomarine wreck near Lengkuas is a must-see – this inter-island cargo vessel sank around 1999 and now sits upright at a depth of approximately 18m to 22m, its structure colonized by coral and marine life.

Sleeps and Eats: A Growing Tourism Scene

As Belitung continues to gain popularity, the island’s tourism infrastructure is slowly developing. Upscale resorts, smaller hotels, homestays, and backpacker options cater to various budgets and preferences. Fresh seafood is a staple on the island, with local specialties like ikan bakar (grilled fish) and ketam isi (crab meat mixed with seasoning) often served in traditional eateries.

One notable aspect of Belitung’s culinary scene is The Well coffee shop in Tanjung Pandan, run by a young local crew who are enthusiastic about recommending dishes and describing the food. Their dedication to showcasing their culture and community might stem from the experiences of Belitung residents during the pandemic, when international flights were halted and their connections with the outside world were severed.

Tin Mining and Rainbow Troops: Unpacking Belitung’s History

Belitung’s story stretches back generations, with tin mining shaping its economy, landscape, and communities. In the 19th century, a Dutch mining company was established to tap the area’s rich tin deposits – more than a century later, this name would live on in BHP Billiton, one of the world’s biggest mining groups. Today, visitors can explore geosites spread across the island covering its granite landscape, mangroves, and old mining areas.

Bukit Peramun is another attraction that offers a glimpse into Belitung’s diverse ecosystem – trekkers can wander through the forest during the day or head out after dark with a guide in search of the Belitung tarsier, a tiny big-eyed nocturnal primate. This unique experience showcases the island’s rich biodiversity and serves as a reminder that there’s more to Belitung than its stunning beaches.

Belitung has carved out its own niche in the world of beach escapes, thanks to its understated nature, unique geological features, and growing tourism infrastructure. As international flights continue to connect Belitung to major hubs like Singapore and Jakarta, we can expect this lesser-known gem to gain even greater popularity in the years to come. Those who are lucky enough to discover its charms before the crowds arrive will be rewarded with a truly unforgettable experience.