The secret paradise near Jakarta you may not know about

Imagine this: just an hour’s flight from the urban sprawl and traffic jams of Jakarta lies a sanctuary so untouched, it feels like stepping into a different world.

Tanjung Kelayang Reserve sits here, largely off the tourist radar, where nature takes precedence and development has been approached with restraint.

Tanjung Kelayang Reserve is a quiet coastal area on Belitung Island, known for its protected landscapes, sustainable practices, and low-impact, nature-based travel experiences. Photo Credit: Tanjung Kelayang Reserve

Unlike more visited island destinations, Tanjung Kelayang is defined by its stillness. Spanning 350 hectares – over half of which is protected land – the reserve is now part of the UNESCO Global Geopark network. This is for those looking for a quieter, more reflective kind of travel experience close to Jakarta, as an alternative to the typical island escape.

Sustainability shapes much of what happens here. The reserve uses a closed-loop water system that relies on the island’s natural kaolin clay to filter water, avoiding underground wells and chemical treatments. Local, renewable materials are used in construction. Even small details, like honey harvested from stingless bees in driftwood hives, reflect an emphasis on working with the environment rather than against it.

Visitors can join guided night walks at Bukit Peramun to spot these adorable furry creatures (Tarsiers) in their natural habitat. Photo Credit: Tanjung Kelayang Reserve

Visitors might encounter a rescued pangolin, part of a local rehabilitation effort, or walk along trails named after native birds, with glimpses of rare plant and animal life. The experience tends to be unhurried and grounded – less about spectacle, more about observation.

Wellness here doesn’t follow a conventional format. There are no planned spa treatments or sunrise yoga classes. Instead, calm comes from natural rhythms – the sound of waves, the presence of water, the open skies.

Snorkelling at Tanjung Kelayang offers clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life across nearby islands, with eco-friendly practices encouraged to protect the environment. Photo Credit: Tanjung Kelayang Reserve

Nearby, a cluster of 15 islands – some hosting sea turtle nesting sites and coral restoration zones – can be reached by kayak or traditional wooden boat.

Travellers visiting Tanjung Kelayang Reserve on Belitung Island have a variety of accommodation options that cater to different preferences and budgets. Here are some options:

Sheraton Belitung Resort: Situated within the Tanjung Kelayang Reserve, this property offers direct access to the beach and basic amenities such as accommodation, dining, and recreational facilities. It incorporates sustainability features such as natural water filtration and the use of locally sourced materials.

Billiton Ekobeach Retreat: Located close to the reserve, this retreat offers tented accommodation using natural materials. It follows a low-impact design approach that aligns with the surrounding environment.

Swiss-Belresort Belitung: Positioned in Tanjung Binga, a short drive from Tanjung Kelayang, this hotel provides standard lodging and is convenient for those looking to explore the northern coastline of the island.

Belitong Beach Cottages and Resto: A small-scale accommodation option within walking distance of Tanjung Kelayang Beach. It offers private rooms and access to nearby food outlets.