Glagah Beach, Kulon Progo: A Tourist Paradise with a Natural Lagoon and Stunning Sunsets
Enjoy the charm of Glagah Beach in Kulon Progo, a tourist paradise with a natural lagoon and breathtaking sunset views.
Yogyakarta is not only known for its attractions in Malioboro or the beaches of Gunung Kidul. On the western side of Yogyakarta lies Kulon Progo, an area that is gaining attention from tourists for its beautiful beaches.
One of the most prominent is Glagah Beach. This beach offers unique views, iconic wave-breaking tetrapods, a natural lagoon, and various fun activities to enjoy. Here is a comprehensive review of the attractions and activities you can do at Glagah Beach.
Attractions of Glagah Beach
1. Wave-Breaking Tetrapods
Glagah Beach is famous for its iconic rows of concrete tetrapods that function as wave breakers and protect the beach from erosion.
These tetrapods add visual appeal to the beach, especially when large waves crash against them, creating dramatic splashes of water.
This view is often used as a photo backdrop by tourists, especially fans of Korean dramas who want to experience scenes similar to those in *Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha*.
2. Calm Natural Lagoon
The natural lagoon formed by the hollow between the rocks and sand is one of Glagah Beach’s main attractions.
Its calm and shallow waters make the lagoon perfect for swimming, playing in the water, or boating. The lagoon is a family favorite because it is safe for children and offers a relaxing atmosphere.
3. Sparkling Black Sand
Unlike the white sandy beaches common in Bali and Lombok, Glagah Beach has sparkling black sand, giving it a unique charm.
The sand’s color is similar to that of Parangtritis Beach and Pantai Baru in Bantul. Visitors often play with this sand, build sandcastles, or simply relax by the beach.
4. Attractive Fishing Spots
Glagah Beach is often called a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. There are two favorite fishing spots: around the lagoon and the tetrapod area. For beginners, the lagoon area offers a safer fishing spot.
Here, you can find various types of fish such as snapper, tilapia, and marble goby. For those seeking a challenge, fishing in the tetrapod area provides a different sensation with waves occasionally crashing in.
5. Sunflower Field
Around Glagah Beach, there is a sunflower field that adds to the tourist attraction. This field has become a favorite photo spot for visitors, especially since it went viral on social media. The bright sunflowers provide a beautiful touch to your trip to the beach.
6. Exploring the Lagoon by Boat or Canoe
To experience the lagoon’s beauty up close, visitors have the option to rent a boat or canoe. The rental fee for a large boat is around IDR 80,000, which can accommodate up to 14 people, while canoes or paddle boats can be rented for around IDR 20,000. Exploring the lagoon by boat is a fun experience that enhances your visit.
7. Stunning Sunrise and Sunset Views
Glagah Beach is known as the best spot in Kulon Progo to enjoy beautiful sunrises and sunsets. The sky’s changing colors during sunrise and sunset provide stunning views, attracting many photographers and tourists to capture the moment. For photo enthusiasts, the spot near the tetrapods is recommended.
Exciting Activities at Glagah Beach
1. Walking Through Fruit Plantations
Near Glagah Beach is Agrotourism Kusumo Wanadri, a dragon fruit plantation that was once a shrubland. Thanks to the efforts of Romo Paulus in 2003, it has become an attractive agrotourism destination.
You can learn about dragon fruit cultivation and buy fresh fruit at affordable prices, starting from IDR 15,000 for a small fruit. This activity adds an educational touch to your holiday fun.
2. Outbound Activities and Games
Glagah Beach offers various outbound activities such as flying fox, beach volleyball, and canoeing. Spending time playing beach volleyball or trying the flying fox by the sea adds an unforgettable holiday sensation.
3. Enjoying Seafood Dishes
There are many stalls around the beach offering fresh seafood dishes. You can savor various dishes such as grilled fish, squid, or crab with special seasonings while enjoying the cool sea breeze. It’s the perfect way to recharge after enjoying the various activities at the beach.
Location and Access to Glagah Beach
Glagah Beach is located in Glagah Village, Temon District, Kulon Progo Regency. It is about 40 km from Yogyakarta city center or around 15 km from the capital of Kulon Progo Regency.
Access to this beach is relatively easy as the roads leading to it are paved and passable by both motorbikes and cars. The trip from Yogyakarta to the beach typically takes around 1.5 hours.
Entrance Fee and Facilities
The entrance fee to Glagah Beach is very affordable, IDR 4,000 per person. Parking fees are IDR 3,000 for motorbikes and IDR 10,000 for cars.
Additional fees are required for activities such as boat or canoe rentals. The beach facilities are quite complete, including toilets, parking areas, prayer rooms, and souvenir kiosks.
Enjoying the Beautiful Sunset
Glagah Beach offers sunset views that rival those of more famous beaches. Arrive around 4:00 p.m. to enjoy the sunset with the backdrop of waves crashing against the tetrapods.
Don’t forget to capture beautiful moments at this beach with your camera while enjoying the scenery.
Glagah Beach in Kulon Progo is an ideal destination to enjoy natural beauty and various exciting activities. From wave-breaking tetrapods, calm lagoons, to sunflower fields, this beach offers a diverse holiday experience.
Don’t miss the precious moments of enjoying the sunset at Nglambor Beach and make your trip to Yogyakarta even more memorable.