Photo credit: IG @anurhadi
Nestled between the well-known Krakal and Sadranan beaches, Slili Beach is an untouched paradise that beckons visitors with its stunning natural beauty. Located in Sidoharjo Village, Tepus District, Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta, this beach is not just a place to relax but a destination to explore both above and below the surface.
The Allure of Slili Beach
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Slili Beach offers a captivating blend of pristine coastal beauty and an enchanting underwater world, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling, swimming, and even trekking along its scenic shores. The name "Slili" is derived from the Javanese word "mili," meaning "flowing," which refers to the spring of water that flows from a cave called "Lawang Watu" (meaning "stone door"). This cave, which still exists today, was once a sacred site for meditation but now serves as a unique attraction for visitors.
How to Get to Slili Beach
Photo credit: IG @cafedeslili
Traveling to Slili Beach is an adventure in itself, offering picturesque views along the way. If you're starting from Yogyakarta City, it’s a 65 km drive (around 1.5 to 2 hours) to the beach. You’ll journey through Mataram Street and Muja Muju Street, before reaching Wonosari Road and finally, the winding paths that lead to the southern coast of Java, including the scenic Jalan Sadranan Slili. For those departing from Wonosari, the journey is much shorter, about 25 km or 30-45 minutes.
Affordable Entrance and Parking Fees
One of the best aspects of Slili Beach is how affordable it is for visitors. The entrance fee is just IDR 10,000 (approximately USD 0.65), while parking fees are equally modest—IDR 2,000 (USD 0.13) for motorcycles, IDR 5,000 (USD 0.32) for cars, and IDR 15,000 (USD 0.97) for buses. If you’d like to relax in a gazebo, you can rent one for IDR 20,000 (USD 1.30) for two hours. The beach is open 24 hours a day, but visiting early in the morning offers a serene experience, especially if you prefer a more peaceful atmosphere for swimming.
Café de Slili: A Perfect Spot to Unwind
For a delicious meal with a view, Café de Slili is a must-visit. This spacious café, similar to beachfront cafés in Bali, boasts a relaxed outdoor seating area, where you can enjoy the beautiful sights of white sands, dramatic cliffs, and the azure sea. Café de Slili offers different seating areas, including a netted area by the beach for Instagram-worthy photos or a communal table shaded by umbrellas for a more laid-back experience.
The café operates in two shifts: from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. To reserve a spot, a minimum order of IDR 300,000 (around USD 19) is required, and reservations can be made via their website or by contacting them directly at +62 813-2701-3102.
Accommodation Near Slili Beach
There are several nearby accommodations where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of the coast. Here are two highly recommended places:
1. Beach View at D’Omah Slili
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Located on Jl. Pantai Slili, this unique accommodation combines traditional Javanese "limasan" architecture with modern amenities. With prices starting from IDR 900,000 (approximately USD 58) per night, D’Omah Slili offers rooms with panoramic views of the beach, providing the perfect retreat after a day of exploring.
2. Radika Paradise Villa & Cottage
Photo credt: kataomed.com
Situated on a hilltop overlooking the sea and lush surroundings, Radika Paradise Villa & Cottage offers a tranquil stay with some rooms featuring private pools. This accommodation is located just north of Indrayanti Beach, and prices start from IDR 500,000 (USD 32) per night, varying based on the room type and season.
Tips for Visiting:
- Early Morning Visits: If you prefer a quieter experience, especially for swimming or relaxing by the shore, plan to visit in the early morning before the crowds arrive.
- Bring Snorkeling Gear: The crystal-clear waters of Slili Beach are perfect for snorkeling, so make sure to bring your own gear or rent from nearby spots.
- Stay Hydrated: The sun can be quite intense, so remember to bring water and sunscreen to protect yourself.
- Respect the Environment: Slili Beach remains a pristine destination thanks to the locals’ efforts to preserve it, so be sure to dispose of waste responsibly.
Slili Beach may be off the beaten path compared to other popular Yogyakarta destinations, but its beauty, tranquility, and unique attractions make it an unforgettable part of the region. Whether you're visiting for the day or staying longer, Slili Beach offers a refreshing escape into nature's splendor.
For more amazing #WonderfulIndonesia destinations and experiences around the enchanting archipelago, follow @wonderfulindonesia on Instagram. Let Indonesia inspire your next travel stories!
