Banyuwangi has an extraordinary charm, right? From its majestic mountains to its exotic beaches, everything is intriguing. Now, if you are planning a vacation to the eastern tip of Java, you will definitely be faced with interesting choices: Mustika Beach vs Red Island. Both are equally stunning, but have very different charms.
Let's go through them one by one so you can be sure which one is right for your adventure!
The Hidden Charm of Mustika Beach, Silence and Underwater Magic

Ever heard of Banyuwangi's ‘Mini Raja Ampat’? Well, Mustika Beach is its main gateway. If you're looking for peace and quiet, the private beach, If you're looking for a place to explore, and the beauty of the underwater world is still preserved, Mustika Beach is the answer.
The white sand is so soft, it makes you feel at home relaxing while listening to the peaceful waves. Hundreds of coconut trees around it also make the atmosphere cooler, perfect for lying down in a gazebo or just enjoying the breeze.
Here, the waves are relatively calmer than other southern beaches, so it's very safe for those of you who want to play water or swim by the beach, even with family and children. But, the main attraction is not just that! From Mustika Beach, you can cross over to Green Island or Bedil Island, which has a view similar to Raja Ampat Papua.
This short 15-minute boat ride will be an unforgettable experience. At Green Island, you can snorkeling or hike up the hill to enjoy the panoramic view of the clear blue sea from a height. For more information about this charming destination, you can check our article on Mustika Beach Banyuwangi.
Red Island, Surfer's Paradise and Spectacular Sunset

It's a different story when we talk about Red Island Beach. The name of this beach is worldwide, especially for surfers. The high and consistent waves are perfect for those of you who want to conquer the waves, both beginners and pros.
Don't be surprised if you meet a lot of surfers from various countries here, because Red Island Beach often hosts international surfing competitions.
But make no mistake, the charm of Pulau Merah is not just for surfers! This beach has a unique stretch of reddish sand, plus a small hill with reddish soil in the middle of the sea that you can reach at low tide.
View sunset here is also the target of photographers and tourists. The reddish twilight sky combined with the silhouette of the iconic Red Island hill, guaranteed to make you stunned. Besides surf and enjoy sunset, You can also relax by the beach, play in the sand, hike the hills, or even visit the temple near the beach for a cultural experience. Facilities on Red Island are also fairly complete, ranging from parking areas, toilets, food stalls seafood fresh, to lodging.
Fun Activities on Both Beaches, Which One Do You Love?
So, where do you think you're going?
- If you're a ‘healing’ team and like peace and quiet: Mustika Beach It's a perfect fit. You can be content to relax, snorkeling, It's a great way to get away from the crowds, or explore ‘Mini Raja Ampat’. Perfect for a family vacation that requires a peaceful atmosphere.
- If you're an ‘adrenaline’ team and love crowds: Red Island is the perfect choice. The challenging waves and lively beach atmosphere will keep your adventurous spirit burning. Plus, the sunset-Its unbeatable!
Of course, you can also visit both because the distance is not too far. In fact, Mustika Beach is only about 3-4 km away from Pulau Merah Beach, or about 500 meters to 1 kilometer if you take the village road.
Practical Tips for Exploring the Enchantment of Banyuwangi, Smoothly without dizziness!
Although these two beaches are relatively close together, access from the Banyuwangi city center to Pesanggaran does take about 2 to 2.5 hours. Well, to make your vacation more comfortable and not bother about transportation, there are several options that you can consider.
Free to Explore with Private Vehicle Rental
If you're traveling with a family or group, especially if you're bringing a lot of gear, car rental can be the perfect solution. With a rental car, you can set your own schedule, stop wherever you want, and of course, it's more comfortable, especially if you have kids.
Many service providers car rental Banyuwangi offers packages with or without a driver, so just choose according to your preference and budget.
Efficient and Agile Exploration with Motorcycle Rental
For the solo traveler or those who want more freedom to explore every corner of the city and beach without being hindered by traffic jams, the rent a motorcycle in Banyuwangi worth a try.
The motorcycle is very practical for exploring small roads to hidden locations. The price is also more affordable, perfect for those of you who are adventurous and want to save your budget.
Practical and hassle-free vacation with tour packages
Don't want to worry about routes, accommodation, or entrance tickets? Take it easy! There are many service providers that offer Banyuwangi tour packages.
With this package, all your holiday needs have been arranged, from transportation, lodging, to a schedule of visits to various hit destinations, including Mustika Beach and Red Island.
This is perfect for those of you who want a relaxing vacation without having to plan everything from scratch. Just sit back and enjoy your adventure!
Conclusion
Good Mustika Beach vs Red Island, Both offer an unforgettable vacation experience in Banyuwangi. If you're looking for tranquility and underwater wonders, Mustika Beach is the perfect choice.
However, if you're craving for the adrenaline rush of the waves and the beauty of the sunset The legendary Red Island is ready to welcome you. Whatever your choice, Banyuwangi always has a way of making you fall in love.
Happy vacation and make every moment in Banyuwangi a beautiful memory!