2026 Gunung Kidul Regency Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

South Shore Jogja is one of the tourist destinations in Gunungkidul, south of the city of Jogja, which offers a million charms that are not easy to forget. Has a variety of interesting photo spots and also exciting facilities. The location of the club and open lounge South Shore Jogja is in Kapanewon Tepus, Gunungkidul Regency. Which if taken from the center of Yogyakarta City using a vehicle will only take approximately 2 hours of travel. Even though it can be reached by motorbike, it's even more comfortable if you drive to the Gunung Kidul area by car. South Shore is located between Ngandong Beach and Sadranan Beach. #newyearadventure #tripblazers #mytripvlog #yogyakarta

Watu Nene Beach is the newest beach in Ngasem Hamlet, Tepus Village, Tepus District, Gunungkidul Regency, Jogjakarta.The beauty of Watu Nene beach will be felt in the afternoon or early morning because the air is very cool, the distinctive beauty of high cliffs like a large wall,and the sea sand of Nene Gunungkidul beach is very clean, not polluted with grass or chunks of wood from the sea.

lest go to gunung kidul, beautifull sea. very cheap you can happy cause this view very good. lestt gooo #tripblazers #bucketlistreboot #mytripvlog

Approximately 1,5-2 hours from the Jogja City Center, Mesra Beach has an impressive view and attractions. From my personal opinion this beach is one of the best Beach in Wonosari, you can treasure the beach through traditional wooden bridge that can bring you another experience and another angle of the beach.. The beach already equipped with good infrastructure, there has food stall where you can find some options of food with the reasonable price (noodle, fried rice, spicy chicken, etc), public toilet is comfy enough and clean, also they have safety guard.. But you need to carefully when swim cause the beach is rocky and wave is so big. #jogjabeach #exploreyogyakarta #staycation #beachlife #jogjahiddengem

💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖 This is the best spot to see Sunset n Jogjaa. it take around 2 Hours from city of Malioboro. Lokasi: Area Hutan, Giricahyo, Purwosari, Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta Jam operasional: setiap hari pukul 09.00-19.00 WIB 💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖

Ng rumput beach is a beautiful and natural and green beach. This beach is new. More suitable for camping with its coral cliffs and many sea gewan and seaweed that can still be found. #beaches #beachlove #pantaingrumput #pantaipasirputih #pantaikarang

For those who don't know, the name Widodaren, which in Javanese means nymph, does seem suitable to be given to this quiet beach that has natural beauty. Because this beach is arguably one of the most beautiful beaches in Yogyakarta! Along this stretch of Widodaren Beach you will see a clean and beautiful beach, with natural white sand grains, combined with the cool air. This beach is also a beach of coral reefs around, giving the impression of a truly natural beauty. Gunungkidul turns out to have several collections of natural beaches, but they are very attractive to tourists. The potential that comes from the characteristics and conditions of the beach which shows a striking difference with the beach in general. You could say, Widodaren Beach is also a unique beach in Jogja! On this beach, you will also see for yourself the existence of a cliff with a height of up to 7 meters. Fortunately, you can climb this cliff through the available stairs. With this staircase, it is certainly easier for visitors to see the evening sky changing color into a holiday, with the orange sun enjoying to the west. In this coastal area there are also hills, the grassy and spacious Widodaren Hill. On the grass, tourists who stop at this hill can rest comfortably, while enjoying the sounds of nature which are dominated by strong waves hitting the rocks. taking time off from work, and on vacation to this beach, you can freely relax your nerves and thoughts. Resting on a quiet beach, while relaxing from the busyness of course feels comfortable. What you need to remember, because this beach is also still very natural and there are not many facilities available, you should come with enough food and drinks. And don't forget to collect plastic waste and leftover food in a bag before throwing it in the trash. It is feared that when you come only with money to stop at a stall that sells seafood, it turns out that even this beach has not provided the stall you want. #hiking#beautifulsunsets#beaches

1. Pantai Watu Walang Address - Gunung Kidul Rating - 4,5/5 Seru banget ke pantai ini, serasa pantai pribadi karena saat kesana tidak ada orang selain saya dan teman teman. Bisa untuk beach camp juga. Pantai ini terlihat tidak luas, namun jika berjalan menyusuri celah batu karang yg terlihat seperti pintu (lawang), maka akan menemukan pantai yg sangat luas dan juga indah. #beaches

Luweng Sampang waterfall is one of the enchanting natural attractions in Jogja. There are many beauties and interesting things that can be enjoyed and are rarely found in other similar natural tourist sites. One of its uniqueness is the view. The cliffs are shaped like neat hill scrapes. In addition, the waterfall has a different flow and shape compared to other waterfalls. Both the cliff and the shape of the waterfall have their own process of formation and origin. The origin of the naming Luweng Sampang can be seen from the shape of the waterfall. The flow of water forms a hole which in the local language is called luweng. While Sampang is the place where this waterfall is located. Regarding the shape of the cliff, according to several tourists who have visited this location, this cliff is shaped similar to the Antalope Canyon spot in Arizona, United States. Because they are both in the form of regular scraping from the top to the bottom. It could be that some other visitors have a different opinion. But still, this part of the cliff is unique. The erosion is formed due to water erosion. In addition, the rocks are also not like many rocks that are often found. The rocks in some areas of Gunung Kidul are indeed rocky and almost like rocks. This area is located on the southern coast which is directly adjacent to the Indian Ocean. So that the unique atmosphere of the ocean so affects the nature around the location. At the base of the waterfall there is a small pool that can be used as a water play vehicle. Uniquely, this pool has at least two colors. Namely brown and turquoise blue. These colors do not appear at the same time, but depending on the conditions. During the rainy season, the pool water looks brown with the swift discharge of the waterfall. This can be caused by the swift water that makes the soil at the bottom of the pond rise to the surface. But it's different in the dry season. #naturalwonders #waterfall #naturalwonders

Pantai yang terletak di Girikarto, Panggang, Gunung Kidul Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta 55198, Indonesia ini memiliki karakter yang berbeda. Pantai Kesirat ini menyajikan karakter yang sangat unik dengan bentuk pantai dengan tebing dan juga karang. Jika mencari keindahan pasir putih, bahari Kesirat tidak memiliki hamparan pasir putih yang biasanya menjadi primadona utama di setiap pantai. Sementara panorama buih ombak yang biasanya bergelombang dan menghantam pasir pantai juga tidak bisa ditemukan di sini. Pantai ini menawarkan keindahan tebing-tebing batuan putih, view dari pantai ini sangat memanjakan mata karena bisa langsung melihat samudera yang sangat luas. Jalanan menuju lokasi ini juga sangat baik tetapi routenya naik turun daerah pegunungan yang lumayan curam jadi harus berhati-hati. #summervacation#beachvacation#hikingtrails#urbanexplorer

I think this is the best beach environment in Gunungkidul. There are some religion that live in this neighborhood, such as Islam, Hindu and Kejawen. Located in Kaniogoro Village, Saptosari Sub-district, this beach has praying places for the religion I mentioned. So, it seems like it is a religion recreation for the visitors who come to this place. One kind of the job for the local people is seaweed seeker. It is not about seaweed, but lobster, starfish and sea-urchin are also  sold to the visitors by the local. Thus, there are still many more great things to do in Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta Indonesia. #wintergetaway #happynewyear #tripinspired #wintergetaway#tripinspired#happynewyear

These are my Yogyakarta highlights—think epic sunset views, sea breezes, and ultra-local eats 🌅🍚. If you’re into jaw-dropping temples, seaside landscapes, and authentic food, keep reading! Must-See Places Guide: 1. Tugu Yogyakarta Monument  Address: Jl. Jend. Sudirman, Gowongan, Jetis, Yogyakarta  Open: All day, year-round  Start your adventure at this iconic landmark in Jetis—it’s perfect for early morning or late-night strolls, and super close to lots of hip cafes. 2. Obelix Sea View  Address: Area Hutan, Giricahyo, Purwosari, Gunung Kidul Regency  Open: 09:00–21:00 (Mon-Fri), 08:00–22:00 (Sat-Sun)  Don’t skip this spot if you adore panoramic sea views with chill vibes. Visit on weekends for longer hours, and arrive before sunset for insane Insta-worthy shots. There’s plenty of seating and local snacks. 3. Prambanan Temple  Address: Jl. Raya Solo - Yogyakarta No.16, Bokoharjo, Prambanan  Open: 06:30–17:30, Rp21,000 admission  This sunset must-see is the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia. Arrive by 4pm to catch sun-drenched architecture and golden hour for photos. The site is vast, so wear comfy shoes, and bring water—they sell local drinks at kiosks but prices are higher inside. Personal tip: Grab nasi uduk (coconut rice with savory sides) from a local warung before you head to Prambanan. It’s tasty, filling, and budget-friendly. Getting Around: GoJek or Grab make hopping between spots cheap and easy, plus it saves you from parking woes. Weather: It gets super sunny—sunscreen and hats are a must! #YogyakartaTrip #SunsetChasers #Prambanan #ObelixSeaView #EatLocal

Timang Beach: Adrenaline Meets Epic Views 🌊⛰️ Ready for a rush AND a feast for your eyes? Timang Beach in Gunung Kidul stuns with dramatic cliffs, wild waves, and its legendary cable gondola—a must for thrill-seekers and view chasers alike! 🔆 Start your day early at Timang Beach (Jl. Pantai Sel. Jawa, open 08:00–17:00) to beat the crowds and soak up those incredible panoramas. The iconic highlight? The Kereta Gondola (RMF6+6XM Samudra Hindia)—a daring wooden cable car swaying over crashing waves to Pulau Timang. Take the ride, then snap bold shots with the turquoise sea below. The rocky coast is dotted with stunning angles for group action shots—my top tip is to capture your squad (like we did!) jumping with the mountains and electric blue sky framing you. 👍🏻 Must-dos: - Ride the Gondola at least once for an epic adrenaline hit and sea spray selfies - Walk the suspension bridge for dramatic ocean backdrops - Explore the nearby fisherman huts for a taste of local culture 📸 Top photo spots: - On the cable gondola with Timang Island behind - All seven of you jumping on the white sandy stretch—look for a sunny patch with mountain views! - Clifftop shots under the rugged trees—adds atmosphere whether the sky’s sunny or moody 💡 Tips: - Wear sturdy shoes and strap down your hats—the wind can be fierce - Bring cash for tickets and snacks; most stalls are cash-only - If weather turns, rain jackets are better than umbrellas (windy beach!) ⚠️ Precautions: The gondola and bridge can sway a lot—hold tight and avoid crossing if seas are extra wild. #GunungKidul #TimangBeach #Adventure #SeaViews #Indonesia

Exploring hidden wonders of Tepus in Gunung Kidul Regency just hits differently 🌊✨ Timang Beach absolutely steals the show — wild waves crashing against epic cliffs, and honestly, it’s one of those rare places where dramatic sea vibes meet pure adventure. Must-See Places: 1. Timang Beach (Jl. Pantai Sel. Jawa, Purwodadi, Tepus) — Open 8am to 5pm, year round Iconic cliffs, raw nature, and salty breezes. The cloudy/rainy skies when I visited turned everything into a moody masterpiece (perfect for snapping epic pics — picture a lone fisherman braving the rocks!). Wear sturdy shoes, the terrain’s rocky and wet! 2. Kereta Gondola 97 (RMF6+6XM Samudra Hindia, Purwodadi, Tepus) Feeling brave? Hop on this daring cable car, dangling you straight above crashing surf to a rocky offshore islet. Runs all day — but early morning is best for minimal crowds and the wild scenery. 3. Kedai Lobster Pak Sis Timang (salam luwengombo jln pantai, timang, Purwodadi, Tepus) Don’t miss this local joint right after your adventure — their lobster is caught fresh from the unpredictable Timang waters. Trust me, it’s buttery, sweet, and the sambal packs a punch.

If you're looking for a spot with Bali-like vibes (cliffs + ocean + dramatic views) but in Jogja, then Puncak Segoro might be the answer. Located in Dusun Wiloso, Girikarto, Kec. Panggang, Gunungkidul, this destination is perched right on a limestone cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. The entrance fee is IDR 55,000 (I visited in July 2025), which includes a meal voucher worth IDR 25,000 that you can redeem there. It takes approximately 2 hours from the city center. A crucial tip is to wear comfortable footwear for climbing up and down the stairs, as the terrain can be quite challenging. Also, visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.

One of the unique hotels in Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta, located in a former mining area, creates the feel of sleeping in a cave. With excellent and complete facilities, it's guaranteed to be comfortable, creating a unique experience. The hotel is called Paleo Stone Age Fantasy, Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta. Come and experience the sensation of staying in a cave. #hotel #hotelunik #paleostoneage #gunungkidul #yogyakarta

Craving fresh lobster by the beach? 🌊 Kedai Lobster Pak Sis is a must-visit after exploring Timang Beach in Jogja! The lobsters here are fresh, juicy, and cooked to perfection—plus, the price is super worth it compared to what you’d pay elsewhere. 😋 🍴 Their menu is full of seafood choices, and the staff are happy to recommend specialties based on your budget and taste. The best part? Serving time is fast, so you don’t have to wait too long before digging in. 💡 Travel Tip: Visit after your adrenaline ride on the iconic Timang Beach gondola for the ultimate adventure + foodie combo. Come a bit earlier in the day to avoid peak crowd and secure a nice spot to sit. 📍 Kedai Lobster Pak Sis – where ocean views meet seafood heaven. 🌅✨ #KedaiLobsterPakSis #TimangBeach #JogjaEats #SeafoodLovers #FoodieJourney #LobsterFeast #HiddenGemIndonesia #JogjaTrip #SeafoodHeaven #EatLikeALocal #JogjaAdventure #FoodieTravel #TasteOfIndonesia #AffordableEats #TripMoments #MyTravelDiary #mytraveldiary #ayunietravels

A fantastic stay! The room was clean and comfortable, and the staff was friendly and professional. I loved the convenient location and would definitely recommend this hotel.

really nice view to heal your stressfull #travel #beachlife #staycation

#mytraveldiary If you’re ever in Jogjakarta and craving a blend of adventure, serenity, and storytelling, Gua Pindul is a must. Nestled within the karst landscape of Gunung Kidul, this cave tubing experience offers more than just a ride—it’s a gentle immersion into nature’s quiet spectacle. From the moment I stepped into the cool waters, seated snugly in a rubber tube, I felt the world slow down. The canal that leads into the cave is narrow and shaded, with limestone walls rising like ancient guardians. As we drifted into the cave’s mouth, the light dimmed and the air grew still—only the soft splash of water and the guide’s voice broke the silence. Our guide was more than just a safety companion; he was a storyteller. With each turn of the cave, he shared tales of local legends, geological wonders, and the delicate ecosystem that thrives in the shadows. His presence made the journey feel safe, but also deeply connected to the land. Inside the cave, stalactites hung like chandeliers above us, and shafts of sunlight pierced through cracks in the ceiling, illuminating the water in ethereal blues and greens. At one point, we passed a mini waterfall—a gentle cascade that kissed the surface of the canal and added a playful rhythm to the ride. The tubing itself was calm and suitable for all ages. It’s not a thrill-seeking rush, but rather a meditative float through nature’s cathedral. I found myself reflecting on how places like this—quiet, tucked away, and lovingly preserved—remind us of the beauty that exists beyond the noise. Gua Pindul isn’t just a destination. It’s a pause. A breath. A reminder that adventure can be soft, slow, and deeply meaningful.

One of the newest hidden gems in Yogyakarta that has become a favorite destination for tourists is Obelix Sea View tourism. This contemporary tourist destination offers unforgettable beauty, with the panorama of the southern sea as an attractive view. The main attraction of Obelix Sea View is of course its open sea view. From the height, visitors can witness the vast blue Indian Ocean, adorned with waves crashing along the southern coast of Yogyakarta. This view becomes even more stunning at sunset on a clear day. Lively performance is held occasionally by different groups.

Yogyakarta, Indonesia – A destination steeped in culture, natural beauty, and stunning culinary delights. Famous for its historical heritage, including Borobudur and Prambanan Temples, you can also experience unique experiences like riding a jeep up Mount Merapi, relaxing on Timang Beach while enjoying fresh lobster, taking photos at the sand dunes, and enjoying the lush greenery of the Mangunan Pine Forest. At night, Yogyakarta city comes alive with horse-drawn carriages and street bazaars, making every moment memorable.

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip 🌟 Recommended Points • Meditation spot on a majestic cliff: Gua Lance Cave is a sacred place built on the edge of a cliff overlooking the South Sea. It is a traditional holy place where royalty, sultans, politicians and others once meditated and prayed. . • Natural meditation room overlooking the South Sea: The cave is enveloped in silence, with only the roar of the waves echoing. It is perfect for those who want to calm their minds or travelers seeking a spiritual experience.  . • Spectacular panoramic view from the cliff: The narrow cliff edge outside the cave is a great viewing spot overlooking the blue sea, horizon, and splashing waves. You can feel the breath and power of nature.

#summervacay On Friday, I rented a car from Semarang and drove down to Yogyakarta's coastline. Many colleagues had told me that Indonesia's most beautiful beaches aren't in Bali, but in Yogyakarta. While I still think Bali's beaches, especially around the outer islands or Uluwatu Temple (Lover's Cliff), are stunning, the spot I found in Yogyakarta, Kesirat, truly amazed me. It's about an hour's drive from Gunung Kidul, all along the same beautiful coastline. What makes Kesirat so special is how unspoiled and less crowded it is. The scenery reminded me a bit of Bali's Uluwatu Temple, but with even more dramatic and intricate cliff formations. It felt much wilder and more untouched. All in all, despite driving for over ten hours round trip, the breathtaking coastal cliffs of Yogyakarta were absolutely worth it. Next month, when I'm back for my business trip, I definitely plan to explore Gunung Kidul and Wediombo Beach more deeply! #Yogyakarta #Kesirat #IndonesiaTravel #CoastalCliffs

#summervacay

#springitinerary feeling extra adventurous this spring? Timang Beach Gondola in Yogyakarta is the place to get your heart pumping. This crazy old-school gondola swings you over the ocean from the cliffs to a tiny rocky island, it’s wild, a bit scary, and totally unforgettable. Spring’s a cool time to visit because the weather’s nice and the ocean breeze is fresh, making the whole experience way more enjoyable (and less sweaty). The view? Absolutely stunning, think turquoise waves crashing below and rugged coastline all around. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but if you’re up for a thrill and want a story to tell, this is it. Plus, the locals are super chill and friendly, making the whole vibe super welcoming. So if you want a spring adventure that’s equal parts crazy and epic, Timang Beach Gondola should be on your list!

#springwander Spring is the perfect time to trade city life for an adrenaline-pumping escape in Gunung Kidul! With lush green hills, rugged trails, and stunning coastal views, an ATV ride through this breathtaking region is the ultimate way to embrace the season. Feel the thrill as you speed through dirt paths, splash through muddy terrains, and ride past scenic limestone cliffs. The fresh spring air and the sight of endless greenery make every turn on the trail an unforgettable experience. Whether you're exploring hidden beaches, passing through rural villages, or navigating jungle trails, Gunung Kidul offers an ATV adventure like no other! After an action-packed ride, take a break at one of Gunung Kidul’s hidden beaches—soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and the peaceful sound of waves crashing against the cliffs create the perfect post-ride relaxation. Watching the sunset over the horizon, with the cool breeze in the air, is the best way to end an epic spring adventure. Who’s ready for an off-road thrill this spring? 🚀🌿🏝️ #SpringAdventure #ATVRide #GunungKidul

I got great experience by passing sea with manmade gondola. ##gondola ##beautiful_indonesia